Blog

Improving your Balance with Physical Therapy

September 9, 2021

What is it?

Balance deficits are one of the main conditions physical therapists treat. Our balance helps keep us in a stable posture during walking, standing, and even sitting. Balance is also an important component of higher level activities to help remain coordinated. Balance deficits can mainly affect the elderly, but can affect younger individuals as well.

Information and causes?

Balance deficits are problems that affect our stability and coordination of movement. Our body has 3 balance systems. They are vision, the inner ear (which senses head movements), and our somatosensory system (our muscles and tendons can sense movements). If one or more of these systems is affected, it can cause improper signals to be sent to the brain, resulting in poor balance control. This can affect how we move and how we stay still. Poor balance can be caused by a variety of factors which include, but are not limited to the following:

• Weakness
• Aging
• Neuropathy (seen with or without diabetes)
• Too much sitting or deconditioning
• Stiff joints
• Inner ear conditions
• Conditions that affect the brain such as a stroke, concussion or, Parkinson’s
• Certain medications

The signs and symptoms?

People with poor balance may experience:

• Sway or teetering when sitting to standing
• Stumbling or tripping often when walking
• Dizziness or vertigo
• Blurred vision
• Falling often or feeling like you are going to fall
• Feeling lightheaded or faint

Many people have good balance in “static” positions such as while sitting and standing. It is during dynamic activities such as walking, multitasking or performing household chores that a person may notice feelings of imbalance.

Poor balance can lead to feelings of fear and a constant sense of caution. This can lead to decreased activity levels which results in deconditioning.

Treatment?

For someone with balance problems, it is best to learn more about the condition itself and management to help gain control of their personal health. Physical therapy is a common and effective treatment of balance.

Physical therapy will initially focus on educating the patient about the balance deficits. Research shows that people who are knowledgeable about their condition have better coping abilities. This education can include learning how the body maintains balance and coordination and how to regain control. Balance therapy through various types of exercises such as aerobics, static and dynamic training, and postural training can help improve overall function, general health and confidence in patients experiencing poor balance. Your physical therapist will design a program that is right for you and your goals.

Expectations?

At your first visit you should expect a physical therapist that is there to get to know you, your current complaints, and your goals. Using this information and the information they gather during their evaluation they will set up an individualized treatment plan that will help you reach your goals and get back to your life faster. Treatments could include exercises to restore strength and motion, and muscular retraining to improve posture and proprioception, spinal activation and stabilization.

References:

https://www.choosept.com/symptomsconditionsdetail/physical-therapy-guide-to-balance-problems

Neck Pain

August 26, 2021

What is it?

Neck pain is pain felt at the base of the head along the spine. If nerves are involved, the pain can radiate down into the shoulders, arms, elbows, and fingers.

Information and causes?

Neck pain affects about 30% of the population each year and is common with those who work in an office, classroom, or manual labor setting. These jobs are known to cause repetitive motions and constant postures that can develop overuse injuries in the neck, shoulders, and upper back region. Other causes can include random incidences of muscle strain (pulled muscles) which can happen with poor sleeping postures, sudden, quick movements, or motor vehicle accidents (whiplash).

The signs and symptoms?

People with neck pain may experience stiffness in the neck, and may describe the pain they feel as:

• Sharp
• Stabbing
• Dull
• Aching
• Throbbing
• Tingling

Neck pain can cause any of the following signs:

• Inability to bend at the neck or turn the head left and right
• Difficulty looking up
• Difficulty looking over the shoulder
• Weak arm and shoulder muscles
• Muscle spasms

Neck pain can cause any of the following symptoms:

• Pain in the neck, upper back, shoulders, arms, or hands
• Numbness or tingling in the neck, shoulders, arms, or hands
• Weakness in the arms
• Increased pain when coughing, sneezing, reaching, or sitting
• Inability to stand straight or sit up straight
• Stiffness when trying to move, or a feeling of being “stuck” in a position such as stooped forward, or with the head leaning to the side
• Tight muscles
• Headaches
• Inability to remain in one position for a long period of time, such as sitting or standing, due to pain
• Pain that is worse in the morning or at night
• Difficulty sleeping due to pain

Treatment?

For someone with neck pain, it is best to learn more about the disease itself and management to help gain control of their personal health. Physical therapy is a common and effective treatment of neck pains and strains. A recent study showed that physical therapy in conjunction with heat and ibuprofen use proved to be the most effective in neck rehabilitation (DOI: 10.3233/BMR-160577)

Physical therapy will initially focus on educating the patient about the disease. Research shows that people who are knowledgeable about their condition have better coping abilities. This education can include learning how the body perceives pain and how to take control of the pain. Pain management through various types of exercises such as aerobics, manual therapy, stretching, and postural training can help improve overall function, general health and sleep quality in patients with neck pain. Your physical therapist will design a program that is right for you and your goals.

Expectations?

At your first visit you should expect a physical therapist that is there to get to know you, your current complaints, and your goals. Using this information and the information they gather during their evaluation they will set up an individualized treatment plan that will help you reach your goals and get back to your life faster. Treatments could include modalities for pain control, manual therapy to help relieve muscle tension and promote healing, exercises to restore strength and motion, and muscular retraining to improve postural and overuse symptoms, spinal activation and stabilization.

Sources:

https://www.choosept.com/symptomsconditionsdetail/physical-therapy-guide-to-neck-pain-57

https://content.iospress.com/articles/journal-of-back-and-musculoskeletal-rehabilitation/bmr160577

www.marylandbackandneckpaindoctors.com

Running Tips

Running Safety Tips

            As fall weather nears and cool temperatures set in, seasonal runners might increase their outdoor jogs before winter temperatures set in. There are many important tips to follow to help you run smart and safe. The following are 10 reminders:

1. Plan your run ahead of time. Be prepared for inclement weather conditions. Avoid running if there are threats of lightning or dangerous storms. If there is lightning, find a low area to run and tree cover to be as protected as possible. It is also important to know where you are going to run so that you can have the most efficient run possible and avoid getting lost.
2. Only use one earbud if listening to music. This will help you to be aware of your surroundings including traffic, other runners, bikers, even animals.
3. Carry your ID. It is important to have your ID on you in case of emergencies. A card holder on your phone allows for compact storage during activity. 
4. Have your phone on you. If you prefer to run without your phone, make sure someone knows where you plan to be running. If the phone seems too cumbersome to take on a run, try clothing with pockets or a lightweight secure bag.
5. Run against traffic. This allows oncoming drivers to see you in advance especially around bends in the road. If you are running on a sidewalk or trail run on the right and pass on the left. 
6. Be visible. Wear bright colored clothing or wear light reflecting accessories to allow others to see you more easily and avoid an accident.
7. Be aware of animals. Depending on your location, wild life or dogs may be a threat while running.
8. Run with others. This can help time pass by quickly and allow for help during an emergency. Dogs can make great running buddies as well!
9. Follow basic traffic laws. It is best to be defensive while driving. Make sure oncoming drivers see you. Just because you can see them doesn’t mean they can see you. Don’t run through stop signs until you are sure oncoming traffic is stopped. 
10. Avoid rush hour. If you run or bike in a busy area of town, avoid rush hour if you can for best conditions. 

References:

https://www.runnersworld.com/beginner/a27559884/running-safety/

https://blog.mapmyrun.com/top-running-safety-tips/

https://wallsheaven.com/wall-murals/running-people,-vector-runners,-group-of-isolated-silhouettes,-side-view-E385687232

Bursitis

August 10, 2021

What is it?

                Bursitis is the inflammation of a bursa. A bursa is a small fluid filled sac that sits between muscles, tendons and bones to reduce friction. Bursitis can occur in the shoulder, elbow, hip, and knee.

Information and causes?

When a bursa sac gets inflamed, it swells and can cause friction in the joints causing pain and more inflammation.

Bursitis can be caused by a variety of factors including:

• Overuse from vacuuming for hours (for example)
• Repetitive strain such as lifting heavy boxes at work
• Trauma from falling on the joint
• Pressure from leaning on the elbow for instance when working at a desk
• Infection from an unattended wound
• Inflammatory disease, such as gout, which could for in the bursa

                Bursitis is typically caused by repetitive friction which can take place due to tight muscles during activity. It often occurs in conjunction with tendonitis. It can also occur after a forced period of rest.

The signs and symptoms?

The signs and symptoms of bursitis can vary based on the location of the bursitis.

With hip bursitis, you may experience:

• Pain on the outer side of the hip, thigh, buttock, or outside of the leg.
• Pain when you push on the outer side of the hip with your fingers.
• Pain when lying on the affected hip.
• Pain when climbing stairs.
• Pain that worsens when getting up from sitting, such as from a low chair or car seat.
• Pain when walking or running.
• Pain when lifting the leg up to the side.
• Pain when sitting with legs crossed.

With knee bursitis, you may experience:

• Swelling on the front of the knee
• Redness on the front of the knee
• Pain when you push with your fingers on the front of the knee
• Pain when kneeling
• Stiffness in the knee joint, or difficulty straightening or bending the knee

With shoulder bursitis, you may experience:

• Pain on the outer side or tip of the shoulder
• Pain when you push with your finger on the tip of the shoulder
• Pain when lying on the affected shoulder
• Pain that worsens when lifting the arm to the side
• Pain when rotating the arm
• Pain when pushing or pulling open a door

With elbow bursitis, you may experience:

• Swelling on the tip or back of the elbow
• Redness on the tip of the elbow
• Pain when you push with your fingers on the tip of the back of the elbow
• Pain when leaning on the arm, as when the arm is resting on an armrest or on the edge of a desk or table
• Stiffness in the elbow joint, and difficulty bending the elbow

Treatment?

For someone with bursitis, it is best to learn more about the disease itself and management to help gain control of your personal health. Physical therapy is one of the main treatments of bursitis. Although it is not a “quick fix”, physical therapy can help you gain control of your physical health and learn how to prevent the bursitis from coming back.

Physical therapy will initially focus on educating the patient about the disease. Research shows that people who are knowledgeable about their condition have better coping abilities. This education can include learning how the body perceives pain and how to take control of the pain. Pain management through various types of exercises such as aerobics, manual therapy, stretching, and deep breathing can help improve overall function, general health and sleep quality in patients with fibromyalgia. Your physical therapist will design a program that is right for you and your goals.

Expectations?

At your first visit you should expect a physical therapist that is there to get to know you, your current complaints, and your goals. Using this information and the information they gather during their evaluation they will set up an individualized treatment plan that will help you reach your goals and get back to your life faster. Treatments could include modalities for pain control, manual therapy to help relieve muscle tension and promote healing, exercises to restore strength and motion, and muscular retraining to improve muscle activation, core activation and stabilization.

Sources:

Image: https://www.msk.org.au/bursitis/

https://www.physio-pedia.com/Bursitis

https://www.choosept.com/symptomsconditionsdetail/physical-therapy-guide-to-hip-bursitis

https://www.choosept.com/symptomsconditionsdetail/physical-therapy-guide-to-knee-bursitis

https://www.choosept.com/symptomsconditionsdetail/physical-therapy-guide-to-shoulder-bursitis

https://www.choosept.com/symptomsconditionsdetail/physical-therapy-guide-to-elbow-bursitis

Neuropathy and Physical Therapy

August 3, 2021

What is it?

Peripheral neuropathy (PN) is a condition affecting the nerves of the body that results in a variety of symptoms including pain, changes in sensation, and changes in muscle activity. PN typically affects nerves in the extremities such as the lower legs and feet.

Information and causes?

PN can be associated with other diseases such as diabetes, injury, and overuse. It can also be associated with medication use. Neuropathy can also occur for reasons unknown. Some of these symptoms have been shown to improve over time, but many do not. It can affect the nerves in the body in various ways. It is generally classified by the number of nerves affected. The more nerves affected, the more severe the case.

Examples:

• Mononueropathy affects 1 nerve. For example, carpal tunnel affects the median nerve resulting in altered sensation and weakness in the hand.
• Polyneuropathy affects 2 or more nerves. This is usually caused by a disease process and can affect nerves in multiple body parts, on both sides of the body.
• Neuritis results from nerve inflammation. This can be caused by infection or injury. It can even be caused by chemical exposure.

The signs and symptoms?

The signs and symptoms of PN can vary. The location and type of nerves affected determine the symptoms. Those with PN may experience:

• Numbness and tingling sensations typically beginning in feet and hands, and can spread up into legs and arms
• Loss of sensation (inability to feel objects you encounter)
• Increased sensitivity to light touch
• Pain (burning, sharp, electric)
• Falls
• Poor wound healing
• Decreased ability to participate in usual functional activities
• Weakness and paralysis of muscles
• Clumsiness and decreased coordination
• Decreased balance

Treatment?

Treatment by a physical therapist can help reduce symptoms of PN in some cases and reduce the effect the symptoms have on movements and activities to improve an individual’s quality of life. Because the cause, type, and symptoms of PN can vary, the therapeutic approach will also vary. For instance, if you have loss of sensation in your feet, education and recommendations about proper footwear is imperative if not already addressed by another provider.

It is key that a person receive physical therapy as soon as possible after being diagnosed, particularly if physical function is impaired. The Physical Therapist will initially focus on educating the patient about the condition and expectations. Research shows that people who are knowledgeable about their condition have better coping abilities. Furthermore, your therapist will work to initially decrease any pain and improve mobility and gradually improve strength and function to return to life pain free and with full function. The physical therapist will design a program that is right for you and your goals.

Expectations?

At your first visit you should expect a physical therapist that is there to get to know you, your current complaints, and your goals. Using this information and the information they gather during their evaluation they will set up an individualized treatment plan that will help you reach your goals and get back to your life faster. Treatments could include modalities for pain control, manual therapy to help relieve muscle tension and promote healing, exercises to restore strength and motion, and muscular retraining to improve core activation and stabilization. These can include but are not limited to nerve gliding techniques to improve nerve function, exercise as tolerated to improve strength, balance and coordination training to reduce fall risk and improve function.

References

https://www.news-medical.net/health/Peripheral-Neuropathy-Symptoms.aspx

https://www.choosept.com/symptomsconditionsdetail/physical-therapy-guide-to-peripheral-neuropathy

Parkinson’s Disease

July 27, 2021

What is it?

Parkinson’s Disease is a neurodegenerative disorder that affects dopamine producing neurons in a specific area of the brain. Symptoms develop slowly over time and can vary from person to person.

Information and causes?

In Parkinson’s disease, certain nerve cells (neurons) in the brain gradually break down or die. Many of the symptoms are due to a loss of neurons that produce a chemical messenger in your brain called dopamine. When dopamine levels decrease, it causes abnormal brain activity, leading to impaired movement and other symptoms of Parkinson’s disease.

Though the cause for Parkinson’s is unknown, treatments are available to help slow the progression of the disease. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, complications related to Parkinson’s is the 14th cause of death in the United States. It is important that those with Parkinson’s are educated in the treatments available to them for the best quality of life possible.

The signs and symptoms?

• Resting tremors
• Bradykinesia (slowness of movement)
• Limb rigidity
• Gait and balance difficulties

Treatment?

For someone with Parkinson’s, it is best to learn more about the disease itself and management to help gain control of their personal health. There are many treatments of Parkinson’s Disease and physical therapy is one of them. Although it’s not a cure, therapeutic exercise has been clinically shown to significantly slow the progression of Parkinson’s Disease symptoms. A recent study showed that early and regular physical therapy helped improve physical function and decreased disability (DOI: 10.1055/s-0041-1725133).

Physical therapy will initially focus on educating the patient about the disease. Research shows that people who are knowledgeable about their condition have better coping abilities. This education can include learning how the body perceives pain and how to take control of the pain. Pain management through various types of exercises such as aerobics, manual therapy, stretching, and deep breathing can help improve overall function, general health and sleep quality in patients with fibromyalgia. Your physical therapist will design a program that is right for you and your goals.

Expectations?

At your first visit you should expect a physical therapist that is there to get to know you, your current complaints, and your goals. Using this information and the information they gather during their evaluation they will set up an individualized treatment plan that will help you reach your goals and get back to your life faster. Treatments could include modalities for pain control, manual therapy to help relieve muscle tension and promote healing, exercises to restore strength and motion, and muscular retraining to improve neurodegenerative symptoms, core activation and stabilization.

Sources:

https://www.apdaparkinson.org/resources-support/living-with-parkinsons-disease/physical-therapy/

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33742432/

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/parkinsons-disease/symptoms-causes/syc-

https://photodune.net/item/happy-older-people/20067522?irgwc=1&clickid=36S1XIX%3AExyLWRmUfcT1PR0YUkBUnp3jSTwd0I0&iradid=275988&irpid=1259333&iradtype=ONLINE_TRACKING_LINK&irmptype=mediapartner&mp_value1=&utm_campaign=af_impact_radius_1259333&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_source=impact_radius

Patellofemoral Pain (or Kneecap Pain!)

July 22, 2021

What is it?

Patellofemoral pain is a chronic condition located at the front of the knee under and around the knee cap. However, the pain can be felt in any area of the knee, including the back of the knee. It is one of the most common types of knee pain in the United States accounting for 20-25% of all reported knee pain.

PFP can occur after sudden increases in physical activity, particularly running or jumping. The knee is unable to adapt as quickly as the new activity levels. PFP does not go away on its own!

Information and causes?

PFP can be caused from weakness in the thigh muscles, engaging in specific sports or activities that require repetitive movements, and hip/knee discoordination during running or jumping. PFP can also be caused from muscular imbalances that include a combination of weakness, decreased flexibility, and increased flexibility.

The signs and symptoms?

                Experience pain:

• When walking up or down stairs and inclines
• When playing sports
• With deep squats
• When walking on uneven surfaces
• Sitting with the knee bent

Pain typically improves with rest.

Treatment?

It is key that a person receive physical therapy for patellofemoral pain to properly restore strength and mobility. The Physical Therapist will initially focus educating the patient about the condition. Research shows that people who are knowledgeable about their condition have better coping abilities. Furthermore, your therapist will work to initially decrease pain and improve mobility and gradually improve strength and function for sport or occupation. The physical therapist will design a program that is right for you and your goals.

Expectations?

At your first visit you should expect a physical therapist that is there to get to know you, your current complaints, and your goals. Using this information and the information they gather during their evaluation they will set up an individualized treatment plan that will help you reach your goals and get back to your life faster. Treatments could include modalities for pain control, manual therapy to help relieve muscle tension and promote healing, exercises to restore strength and motion, and muscular retraining to improve core activation and stabilization.

References:

https://www.physio-pedia.com/Patellofemoral_Pain_Syndrome

https://www.choosept.com/symptomsconditionsdetail/physical-therapy-guide-to-patellofemoral-pain

Post Surgical Pain and Rehab

July 13, 2021

What is it?

It is best to try physical therapy before having surgery. In some case, surgery cannot be avoided, and physical therapists are here to help. Often physical therapists will work with patients following surgeries including rotator cuff repair, joint replacements, scopes, and any other surgery that disrupts the musculoskeletal system. Physical therapy is commonly used to help get you back on your feet after surgeries.

Information and causes?

Typically, surgeries such as knee replacements take place to improve joint pain and function after other measures have no longer helped.

Surgeries can heal on their own without a physical therapist. However, the outcomes will not be as successful. For instance, after a knee replacement, it is typical for the body to respond with compensations during activities such as walking, this can continue even after removal of crutches. A physical therapist will be there to guide you as you learn to walk again (correctly!)

The signs and symptoms?

The signs and symptoms following surgery can vary. Here is a list of the most common symptoms:

• Pain in the surgical area or other areas due to overcompensating
• Swelling and bruising
• Stiffness
• Difficulty walking
• Difficulty performing usual activities
• Scar healing at the incision site

Treatment?

It is key that a person receive physical therapy shortly after surgery to restore strength and mobility early on. The Physical Therapist will initially focus on educating the patient about the surgery and expectations. Research shows that people who are knowledgeable about their condition have better coping abilities. Furthermore, your therapist will work to initially decrease pain and improve mobility and gradually improve strength and function to return to life pain free and with full function. The physical therapist will design a program that is right for you and your goals.

Expectations?

At your first visit you should expect a physical therapist that is there to get to know you, your current complaints, and your goals. Using this information and the information they gather during their evaluation they will set up an individualized treatment plan that will help you reach your goals and get back to your life faster. Treatments could include modalities for pain control, manual therapy to help relieve muscle tension and promote healing, exercises to restore strength and motion, and muscular retraining to improve core activation and stabilization.

References

https://www.choosept.com/didyouknow/detail/arthroscopy-not-recommended-degenerative-knee-dise

Workplace Injuries and Physical Therapy

July 6, 2021

Workplace injuries are common among all ages. In many cases an employee who is injured on the job can receive worker’s compensation to allow for a means to pay the bills and live comfortably during recovery. Physical therapy is commonly used to help get you back on your feet after a work injury.

These injuries typically resolve quickly. However, many workers do not take proper steps to get well or over-do it which can lead to more serious problems down the road and a longer healing time frame.

Workplace injuries are typically caused by overuse through repetitive movements performed during work. Other injuries can include falls, injuries following equipment malfunction, and vehicle related accidents.

The signs and symptoms of workplace injuries vary widely due to different types of workplace injuries. These can include, but are not limited to:

• Pain in any area of the body due to repetitive overuse
• Swelling and bruising
• Stiffness
• Difficulty walking
• Difficulty performing your usual work activity

It is key that a person receive physical therapy shortly after a work injury to restore strength and mobility early on. The Physical therapist will initially focus on educating the patient about the injury. Research shows that people who are knowledgeable about their condition have better coping abilities. Furthermore, your therapist will work to initially decrease pain and improve mobility and gradually improve strength and function to return to work pain free and with full function. The physical therapist will design a program that is right for you and your goals.

At your first visit you should expect a physical therapist that is there to get to know you, your current complaints, and your goals. Using this information and the information they gather during their evaluation they will set up an individualized treatment plan that will help you reach your goals and get back to your life faster. Treatments could include modalities for pain control, manual therapy to help relieve muscle tension and promote healing, exercises to restore strength and motion, and muscular retraining to improve core activation and stabilization.