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Barbell Rehab Method: Physical Therapy

Barbell Rehab Method: Injury Rehab & Managing Chronic Conditions

Leave a Comment / Health & Wellness, Back Pain, Hips and Pelvis, Injury Assessment, Knee, Mobility, Pain Management, Shoulder, Sports Medicine, Treatments /

Barbell Rehab Method (BRM)

The Barbell Rehab Method is an approach to physical therapy that integrates principles from strength training and rehabilitation to help individuals recover from injuries or manage chronic conditions. It emphasizes using barbell exercises to improve strength, mobility, and function while addressing specific movement dysfunctions or imbalances. Barbell Rehab Method: Physical Therapy

Barbell Rehab Method In Action

The Barbell Rehab Method is typically used in physical therapy during:
  • Assessment: The therapist assesses the individual’s movement patterns, strength deficits, range of motion, and any specific impairments related to their injury or condition. This assessment helps tailor the rehabilitation program to the individual’s needs.
  • Exercise Prescription: Based on the assessment findings, the therapist prescribes specific barbell exercises designed to target areas of weakness or dysfunction. These exercises may include squats, deadlifts, presses, rows, and other compound movements that engage multiple muscle groups.
  • Technique Instruction: Proper technique is crucial to prevent further injury and maximize the effectiveness of the exercises. The therapist provides detailed instructions on performing each exercise safely and effectively, paying close attention to posture, alignment, and movement mechanics.
  • Progression: As the individual progresses in their rehabilitation, the therapist gradually increases the intensity, load, or complexity of the exercises to continue challenging their strength and mobility. This progressive approach helps promote ongoing improvement and prevents plateaus in recovery.
  • Individualization: The Barbell Rehab Method is highly individualized, considering each person’s unique goals, abilities, and limitations. The therapist may modify exercises or incorporate additional strategies, such as mobility drills or accessory movements, to address specific needs and optimize outcomes.
  • Education and Empowerment: Throughout the rehabilitation process, the therapist educates the individual on proper body mechanics, injury prevention strategies, and self-management techniques to support long-term health and wellness. The Barbell Rehab Method promotes independence and self-efficacy by empowering individuals to actively participate in their recovery.
The Barbell Rehab Method offers a comprehensive and evidence-based approach to physical therapy that integrates strength training principles with rehabilitation principles to promote optimal recovery and functional outcomes.

Barbell Rehab Method For All Ages & Activity Levels

The Barbell Rehab Method can be applied to individuals of different age groups and activity levels by tailoring the rehabilitation program to meet each individual’s specific needs, goals, and capabilities. Here’s how it can be adapted for different populations:

Young Adults and Athletes:

    • Young adults and relatively active athletes with a higher fitness level may focus on restoring strength, mobility, and function to facilitate a safe return to sports or other high-intensity activities.
    • The rehabilitation program may include more advanced barbell exercises and progressions, such as plyometric variations, dynamic movements, and sport-specific drills, to challenge their strength and athleticism.
    • Through targeted strength and conditioning protocols, emphasis is placed on optimizing movement mechanics, enhancing performance, and reducing the risk of future injuries
Barbell Rehab Method: Physical Therapy For Young Adults & Fitness Athletes

Middle-Aged Adults:

      • Middle-aged adults may benefit from the Barbell Rehab Method to address age-related changes, musculoskeletal issues, or injuries related to work, daily activities, or recreational pursuits.
      • The rehabilitation program focuses on improving functional capacity, reducing pain, and enhancing overall quality of life by targeting weakness, stiffness, or dysfunction areas.
      • Exercises are selected and modified based on individual capabilities and goals, emphasizing improving movement patterns, joint mobility, and muscular strength to support daily activities and maintain independence.
Barbell Rehab Method: Physical Therapy For Middle-Aged Adults

Older Adults:

    • The Barbell Rehab Method can help older adults address age-related strength, balance, and mobility declines and manage chronic conditions such as osteoarthritis or osteoporosis.
    • The rehabilitation program emphasizes safe and effective exercises that improve muscular strength, bone density, joint stability, and functional capacity to support healthy aging and prevent falls or injuries.
    • Exercises are selected and progressed cautiously, considering factors such as joint health, balance impairments, and mobility limitations. Modifications may include using lighter weights, incorporating balance training, and focusing on functional movements relevant to daily activities.
Barbell Rehab Method: Physical Therapy For Older Adults

Sedentary or Deconditioned Individuals:

    • Sedentary or deconditioned individuals may benefit from the Barbell Rehab Method to improve overall fitness, health, and well-being and manage chronic conditions such as obesity, diabetes, or cardiovascular disease.
    • The rehabilitation program focuses on gradually reintroducing physical activity, building foundational strength, and improving movement mechanics to support long-term adherence and sustainable lifestyle changes.
    • Exercises are selected and progressed based on individual fitness levels and tolerance, emphasizing gradual progression, proper technique, and personalized support to overcome barriers and build confidence in physical activity participation.
Barbell Rehab Method: Physical Therapy For Sedentary or Deconditioned Individuals The Barbell Rehab Method can be adapted to individuals of different age groups and activity levels by customizing the rehabilitation program to address their unique needs, capabilities, and goals. Whether recovering from an injury, managing a chronic condition, or striving to improve overall health and fitness, strength training and rehabilitation principles can be effectively applied to promote optimal outcomes and enhance quality of life across the lifespan.

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Why Stabilizer Muscles are important

Stabilizer Muscles: Key To Injury Prevention & Optimal Function

Leave a Comment / Health & Wellness, Back Pain, Hips and Pelvis, Injury Assessment, Knee, Neck Pain, Pain Management, Sports Medicine /

What are Stabilizer Muscles?

Stabilizer muscles are crucial for optimal movement, injury prevention, and long-term physical health. Compared to prime muscle mover muscles such as the biceps/triceps (arms), pecs (chest), and quadriceps (upper thigh), the stabilizers are generally deeper within the body and closer to the joints they stabilize. Their primary function is to provide support and stability to joints during movement.

Why Stabilizer Muscles are important

 

Why Stabilizer Muscles Are Important For Everyone

Regardless of age or activity level, for several reasons:

  1. Injury Prevention: Stabilizer muscles help maintain proper joint alignment and stability during movement, reducing the risk of injury. This is crucial for athletes engaging in sports that involve dynamic movements and sudden changes in direction, as well as for older adults who may be more prone to falls and injuries due to age-related changes in balance and coordination.
  2. Improved Balance and Coordination: Stabilizer muscles play a key role in balance and coordination by providing support and stability to the body during various activities. By strengthening these muscles, individuals can improve their balance and coordination, which benefits athletes looking to enhance their performance and older adults aiming to reduce their risk of falls.
  3. Enhanced Functional Movement: Stabilizer muscles are essential for maintaining proper posture and performing everyday tasks such as walking, lifting, and reaching. Strengthening these muscles can improve overall functional movement patterns, making it easier for individuals to carry out daily activities efficiently and easily.
  4. Joint Health: Stabilizer muscles help stabilize the joints, protecting them from excessive stress and reducing the risk of joint injuries and degenerative conditions such as osteoarthritis. This is particularly important for older adults and individuals with joint-related issues or previous injuries.
  5. Improved Athletic Performance: Strong stabilizer muscles contribute to better movement mechanics, agility, and power generation in athletes, which can translate to improved athletic performance and reduced risk of sports-related injuries. Targeting stabilizer muscles in training programs can help athletes optimize their performance and excel in their respective sports.
  6. Functional Independence: For older adults and individuals with mobility limitations, maintaining strong stabilizer muscles is essential for preserving functional independence and quality of life. By improving stability, balance, and coordination, individuals can maintain their ability to perform daily tasks and activities without assistance for as long as possible.

10 Important Stabilizer Muscles

Some of the most essential stabilizer muscles throughout the human body include:

Transverse Abdominis:

This deep core muscle wraps around the abdomen and acts like a natural weight belt, providing the spine and pelvis stability.

Transverse Abdominis Stabilizer Muscle

Multifidus:

These small muscles run along the spine, and help stabilize the vertebrae, supporting proper posture and movement.

Multifidus Stabilizer Muscle

Rotator Cuff Muscles:

These muscles (supraspinatus, infraspinatus, teres minor, and subscapularis) stabilize the shoulder joint, ensuring proper alignment and movement of the arm.

Rotator Cuff Stabilizer Muscles

Gluteus Medius:

Located on the outer hip, this muscle helps stabilize the pelvis and maintain balance, particularly during single-leg movements like walking and running.

Gluteus Medius Stabilizer Muscle

Quadratus Lumborum:

This muscle on either side of the lower back helps stabilize the pelvis and spine during activities like lifting and bending.

Quadratus Lumborum Stabilizer Muscle

Obliques:

Both internal and external obliques help with spine rotation and lateral flexion, contributing to core stability and preventing excessive strain on the lower back.

Obliques

Deep Neck Flexors:

These muscles support the head and neck, promoting proper alignment and reducing strain on the cervical spine.

Deep Neck Flexors

Hip Abductors/Adductors:

Muscles such as the tensor fasciae latae and adductor longus help stabilize the hip joint during walking and standing.

Hip Abductors/Adductors

Scapular Stabilizers:

Muscles such as the serratus anterior, rhomboids, and trapezius help stabilize the shoulder blades, allowing for proper shoulder function and reducing the risk of shoulder injuries.

Scapular Stabilizers

Pelvic Floor Muscles:

These muscles support the pelvic organs and help stabilize the pelvis, contributing to core stability and preventing issues such as urinary incontinence.

Pelvic Floor Muscles:

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Injury Prevention: The Crucial Role Of Leg Strength

Injury Prevention: Strong Legs Is The Key To Staying Healthy

Leave a Comment / Health & Wellness, Injury Assessment, Knee, Pain Management /

Preventing Injuries By Building Leg Strength

In the pursuit of leading healthy, active lives, injury prevention is a paramount concern for everyone. Whether you’re an athlete, a fitness enthusiast, or simply someone who enjoys staying active, understanding the importance of having strong legs is crucial to safeguarding yourself against potential injuries. Strong legs not only contribute to enhancing your physical performance but also play a pivotal role in providing stability, balance, and resilience to your entire body.

Strong Legs For Preventing Injuries

Strong Legs Are The Foundation of Stability

At the core of injury prevention lies the foundation of stability, which is firmly rooted in strong legs. The lower body muscles, including the quadriceps, hamstrings, glutes, and calves, form a robust support system that helps maintain balance during daily activities and physical exercises. By enhancing the strength of these leg muscles, individuals can significantly reduce the risk of falls, slips, and other mishaps that might lead to injuries.

Absorbing Impact and Reducing Strain

Life is full of unexpected movements and physical challenges. Whether it’s jumping, landing, or running, our legs bear the brunt of these activities. Strong leg muscles can efficiently absorb and distribute impact forces, protecting vulnerable joints such as the knees and ankles from excessive strain. When these muscles are well-conditioned, they act as shock absorbers, diminishing the impact on joints and preventing common injuries like sprains, strains, and ligament tears.

Injury Prevention: Absorbing Impact and Reducing Strains With Strong Legs

Enhanced Athletic Performance

For athletes and sports enthusiasts, having strong legs is not just about injury prevention but also about enhancing overall athletic performance. Explosive movements, quick changes of direction, and agility are all heavily reliant on leg strength. A powerful lower body not only boosts performance in specific sports but also aids in developing greater endurance and stamina for more extended training sessions.

Posture and Alignment

Maintaining proper posture and alignment is essential to prevent injuries, especially in the back and neck regions. Strong leg muscles work in tandem with the core and back muscles to support a healthy alignment, preventing overuse injuries caused by poor posture. Additionally, well-conditioned legs contribute to a balanced body, reducing the risk of muscle imbalances and related injuries.

Reducing the Risk of Overuse Injuries

Repetitive motions or overuse of specific muscles can lead to injuries that can hinder daily activities and athletic pursuits. Strong legs can alleviate the burden on other body parts, such as the lower back and hips, by distributing the load more evenly during movement. This balance reduces the risk of overuse injuries and allows individuals to engage in physical activities with reduced strain on the body.

To learn more about overuse injuries and the signs that are often associated with them, read our “Preventing Overuse Injuries” here.

Injury Prevention in Different Age Groups

The significance of strong legs in injury prevention extends across all age groups. For children and adolescents, developing leg strength is essential for supporting their growth spurts, improving balance, and reducing the risk of sports-related injuries. As we age, maintaining strong legs becomes even more critical. Strong leg muscles can prevent falls, fractures, and other age-related injuries, enabling older adults to lead active, independent lives.

One key finding that supports the importance of leg strength is the Health, Aging, and Body Composition  Study  (Health ABC Study) found that participants (over 3,000 men and women ages 70-79) who exhibited higher leg strength had a lower risk of disability and early death.

The Role of Physical Therapy

Physical therapy plays a pivotal role in helping individuals build and maintain strong legs. A skilled physical therapist can create personalized exercise programs that target specific leg muscles, taking into account individual needs and existing health conditions. Through a combination of strengthening exercises, stretching routines, and proprioceptive training, physical therapy can enhance leg strength, flexibility, and overall stability.

Conclusion

In conclusion, having strong legs is not only advantageous for athletes and fitness enthusiasts but is crucial for injury prevention in all aspects of life. The stability, impact absorption, and enhanced performance provided by strong leg muscles significantly reduce the risk of injuries in daily activities and sports. Additionally, strong legs contribute to maintaining proper posture, alignment, and balanced muscle development, mitigating the likelihood of overuse injuries.

Investing in the strength and resilience of your legs through regular exercise and physical therapy can offer a multitude of long-term benefits. Whether you’re a professional athlete, a recreational enthusiast, or someone looking to lead a healthy lifestyle, prioritizing leg strength will undoubtedly pave the way for a safer, more active, and injury-free journey. Remember, it’s never too late to start working on your leg strength, so take that first step towards a more robust and injury-resistant future today.

 

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Joint Pain: Causes, Relief, and Treatments

Joint Pain: Causes, Relief, and Treatment

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Joint Pain & PT

Joint pain can be a debilitating condition that affects people of all ages and backgrounds. It can make moving, walking, or even carrying out simple tasks difficult. In this blog, we will explore some common causes of joint pain, the role of physical therapy in treating joint pain, and some of the most effective joint pain relief strategies.

Causes of Joint Pain

There are many possible causes of joint pain. Some of the most common causes include arthritis, injury, overuse, and infection. Arthritis is a condition that causes inflammation in the joints. The most common types of arthritis are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. 

Joint Pain From Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is caused by wear and tear on the joints over time. It is more common in older adults and can affect any joint in the body.

Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that affects millions of people worldwide. The condition is characterized by the gradual breakdown of joint cartilage, which can cause pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion. The physiology behind osteoarthritis and joint pain is complex and involves several factors.

The joint comprises several components, including bones, cartilage, synovial fluid, ligaments, and tendons. The articular cartilage, the smooth, shiny surface covering the bones’ ends, helps reduce friction and absorb shock during movement.

In osteoarthritis, the articular cartilage begins to break down, which can cause the bone to rub against the bone. This can lead to the formation of bone spurs, which can further exacerbate joint pain and inflammation.

Joint pain in the knee from osteoarthritis

Several different factors can contribute to the development of osteoarthritis and joint pain. Some of the most common factors include the following:

  1. Aging: As we age, the cartilage in our joints may begin to break down, which can increase the risk of osteoarthritis.
  2. Genetics: Some people may be more susceptible to developing osteoarthritis due to genetic factors.
  3. Obesity: Being overweight or obese can put extra stress on the joints, which can increase the risk of osteoarthritis.
  4. Injuries: Joint injuries, such as a torn ligament or a broken bone, can increase the risk of developing osteoarthritis.
  5. Repetitive stress: Repetitive stress on a joint, such as overuse or engaging in certain sports or activities, can increase the risk of osteoarthritis.

In addition to these factors, several physiological processes can contribute to developing osteoarthritis and joint pain. These include:

  1. Inflammation: Inflammation plays a key role in the development of osteoarthritis. When the articular cartilage begins to break down, the body’s immune system may respond by releasing inflammatory chemicals, which can cause pain and swelling in the affected joint.
  2. Mechanical stress: Mechanical stress on the joint can also contribute to the development of osteoarthritis. When the joint is subjected to repetitive stress, the cells within the articular cartilage may become damaged, leading to cartilage breakdown and osteoarthritis.
  3. Altered biomechanics: Altered biomechanics, such as abnormal joint alignment or muscle imbalances, can also contribute to the development of osteoarthritis. These factors can put extra stress on the joint, which can accelerate the breakdown of the articular cartilage.

Joint Pain From Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disorder that affects the joints and causes joint pain, stiffness, and swelling. It can affect people of any age and often affects the small joints in the hands and feet.

In RA, the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the synovium, which is the tissue that lines the joints. This attack leads to inflammation and thickening of the synovium, causing it to produce more synovial fluid than normal. As a result, the joint swells and becomes stiff, leading to joint pain and reduced mobility.

Joint pain in knee from rheumatoid arthritis

In addition to inflammation, RA can also cause damage to the cartilage, bones, and other tissues within the joint. This damage occurs due to persistent inflammation, which can wear away at the cartilage and erode the bones.

Injury is another common cause of joint pain. This can include acute injuries, such as sprains or fractures, and chronic injuries, such as repetitive strain injuries. Overuse can also cause joint pain, especially in people who engage in repetitive activities or sports.

Physical Therapy for Joint Pain

Physical therapy can be a highly effective way to manage joint pain. Physical therapists are trained to evaluate and treat musculoskeletal conditions, including joint pain. They can work with patients to develop a personalized treatment plan that includes exercises and other interventions to help reduce pain and improve function.

Physical therapy can be very helpful for patients with joint pain, as it can address the underlying causes of the pain and help improve joint mobility and function. Some ways physical therapy can help patients with joint pain include:

  1. Pain management: Physical therapists can use various techniques such as heat/cold therapy, manual therapy, and electrical stimulation to reduce pain and inflammation in the affected joint.
  2. Strengthening exercises: Physical therapists can prescribe specific exercises to help strengthen the muscles surrounding the affected joint. Stronger muscles can help support the joint and reduce stress, which can help reduce pain.
  3. Range of motion exercises: Joint pain can sometimes cause stiffness, making it difficult to move the joint. Physical therapists can help patients improve their range of motion with exercises designed to increase flexibility and decrease stiffness.
  4. Education: Physical therapists can educate patients on reducing stress on the affected joint in their daily activities. For example, they can teach patients proper body mechanics, posture, lifting, bending, and carrying techniques.
  5. Assistive devices: Physical therapists can recommend using assistive devices such as braces, splints, or crutches to help support the affected joint and reduce pain.

Overall, physical therapy can be a very effective treatment option for patients with joint pain. By addressing the underlying causes of the pain and improving joint function, patients can often experience significant pain relief and improved quality of life.

Joint Pain Relief Strategies

Many other strategies can also be used to help relieve joint pain. Some of the most effective strategies include:

  1. Exercise: As mentioned earlier, exercise can be an effective way to manage joint pain. Working with a physical therapist or primary healthcare provider is important to develop an exercise program that is appropriate for your specific condition and needs.
  2. Weight management: Being overweight can put extra stress on the joints, which can lead to pain and inflammation. Losing weight can help to reduce this stress and improve joint function.
  3. Heat and ice: Applying heat or ice to the affected joint can help to reduce pain and inflammation. Heat can help to increase blood flow to the joint, while ice can help to reduce swelling.
  4. Massage: Massage can help to reduce muscle tension and improve circulation, which can help to reduce pain and inflammation in the affected joint.
  5. Medications: Over-the-counter pain medications, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can effectively manage mild to moderate joint pain. Prescription medications, such as corticosteroids or disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), may be needed for more severe cases.

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Types of back and neck pain

7 Types Of Pain In The Back and Neck

Leave a Comment / Pain Management, Back Pain, Neck Pain /

Pain and Physical Therapy

Physical Therapy is considered one of the best ways to treat multiple types of pain because it focuses so much on treating the root cause and not just the symptoms. Combining hands-on treatments like orthopedic manual therapy with proven pain management techniques like dry needling while progressing through therapeutic exercises brings patients better long-term relief.

The International Association for the Study of Pain (IASP) describes pain as “an unpleasant sensory and emotional experience associated with actual or potential tissue damage or described  in terms of such damage.” When we are presented with something that causes pain, if capable, we rapidly or reflexively pull out. The tactile sensation of pain is called nociception.  

Pain is an awkward inclination that lets you know something might be wrong. It may be consistent, pounding, wounding, throbbing, squeezing, or depicted in many other ways. Now and again, it’s simply an annoyance, like a migraine. At different times it tends to be debilitating  

According to John Hopkins, medical pain can bring about other physical symptoms, like nausea,  dizziness, weakness, or drowsiness. It can generate emotional consequences like anger,  depression, mood swings, or irritability. In certain cases, pain could completely change your way of life and affect your job, relationships and independence. 

There are two categories to classifying pain 

  1. Acute Pain 
  2. Chronic Pain  

Types Of Pain

Acute Pain

It usually happens rapidly and disappears. Acute pain generally comes on abruptly and is brought about by something explicit. It is sharp in quality. For the most part, intense agony doesn’t endure longer than a half year. It disappears when there could be, at this point, not a basic reason for the aggravation. Acute pain ordinarily begins unexpectedly after a physical injury, a cut, wound, or muscle injury. Acute pain can likewise be brought about by fever, inflammation, and menstrual cramps. Acute pain is regularly treated by educating the patient, medication, exercise-based recuperation/physical therapy, chiropractic massage, or dynamic development programs.  

Chronic Pain

Chronic pain is continuous and, as a rule, endures longer than a half year. This pain can continue even after the injury or disease that caused it has recuperated or disappeared.  Certain individuals experience chronic pain in any event when there is no previous injury or issues. According to Cleveland Clinic, Chronic pain is linked to conditions that include:  

  • Headache
  • Arthritis
  • Cancer
  • Back pain 

Chronic pain is normal; it influences 1 of every 5 grown-ups and is the number one cause of disability globally. Chronic Pain is a quiet pestilence that diminishes personal satisfaction, adversely impacts connections and occupations, and causes depression. (Sessle, 2012).  

Types of Back Pain

According to the Health Policy institute, back issues are patients’ most regular complaints to their primary care physicians. Almost 65 million Americans report a new episode of back pain. Approximately 16 million grown-ups – 8% of all grown-ups – experience industrious or constant back pain, which has restricted them from carrying out certain activities in their everyday life.  Back pain is the 6th most exorbitant condition in the United States.  

There are three types of back pain; Axial Pain, Referred Pain, and Radicular Pain. 

Axial Pain:

Also known as mechanical pain. Axial pain is usually restricted to one specific spot or region in the lower back area. Axial pain is patients’ most common type of lower back pain. 

Axial Back Pain

Referred pain

This is a type of pain that is not restricted to one specific region it tends to move around, and the intensity of the pain often varies. Referred pain is the type of pain that a patient faces in one part of the body which is influenced by an injury or discomfort in another part of the body.  

Radicular Pain

According to spine health, radicular pain can be described as electric shock-like or burning; radicular pain follows the way of the spinal nerve as it leaves the spinal canal. This sort of aggravation is brought about by pressure as well as irritation to a spinal nerve root. In the lower back (lumbar spine), radicular pain might go into the leg. Different expressions for radicular pain are sciatica or radiculopathy (when joined by shortcoming or potentially deadness). It very well may be brought about by conditions, for example, a herniated plate,  spinal stenosis, or spondylolisthesis.

Sciatica Back Pain

Click here to read more about Sciatica

 

Types of Neck Pain

Neck pain is torment in or around the spine underneath your head, known as the cervical spine.  Neck pain is a typical side effect of previous injuries. According to the Cleveland Clinic, Neck pain is extremely normal. It happens in around one out of three individuals no less than one time each year. It is more normal in ladies than in men, and the possibility of developing neck pain increases with age.  

According to UpToDate Patient education: Neck pain (Beyond the Basics), The most common  causes of neck pain are Cervical strain, Cervical spondylosis, Cervical discogenic pain, Cervical  facet syndrome,  

Cervical Strain

A cervical strain is one of the most common issues that is being faced today. This usually occurs the neck muscles suffer an unusual injury. Cervical strains are usually caused due to sports-related injuries with heavy impact and physical/mental stress in everyday life, including poor nutrition and poor posture. Cervical strains last up to 4-6 weeks; neck muscles’ most common cervical strain symptoms are stiffness and tightness.  

Cervical Spondylosis

Cervical Spondylosis is a condition brought about by unusual cervical spine tears (degenerative changes). The most common symptoms of cervical spondylosis are neck pain, headaches, numbness, and little to no neck mobility. 

Cervical Neck Pain

Cervical Discogenic Pain

This type of neck pain might be the most widely recognized reason for neck pain. It is brought about by degenerative changes in the structure of at least one of the discs in the middle of the cervical vertebrae. The most common symptoms are pain in the neck while turning or shifting your head.  

Cervical Facet Syndrome

The facet joints are situated on the sides of the vertebrae, and arthritis in this space can cause pain in the center or side of the neck; certain individuals additionally notice pain in the shoulders, around the shoulder blades, at the foundation of the head, into the ear and jaw, or in one arm. A typical reason for cervical facet syndrome incorporates a task requiring an individual to expand the neck repeatedly in their daily life. 

Diagnose and Treating Your Pain

There are endless possibilities to modify a physical therapy treatment program in order to relieve your specific back or neck pain. At Balanced Physical Therapy, our Doctors are licensed and certified to diagnose the exact cause of your pain symptoms. We take a unique 1-on-1 approach to each treatment session to ensure that all our patients receive our undivided attention and are properly progressing throughout all phases of the rehabilitation. Visit our contact page to schedule an evaluation or to find out more about our doctors, treatments, and network of insurances.

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Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization

IASTM: Manual Therapy For Movement Restrictions, Tension, and Pain

Leave a Comment / Treatments, Mobility, Pain Management /

What is IASTM in Physical Therapy?

Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM) is a type of manual massage therapy used by physical therapists. Commonly known as the Graston Technique, this type of treatment can be beneficial for many people with movement restrictions, tension, and pain.

The Taylor and Francis journal defines IASTM as “a skilled intervention that includes using specialized tools to manipulate the skin, myofascia, muscles, and tendons by using various direct compressive stroke techniques.”

Tightness, tension, and pain while sitting at office

What does IASTM Do?

Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization helps break down restrictions, reduce pain, and facilitate healing by addressing musculoskeletal problems at the cellular level.

At the musculoskeletal level, a facial restriction is often a combination of scar tissue and adhesions built up over time. Ortho Bethesda does a great job explaining that “Scar tissue and adhesions essentially act like superglue in your body. When scar tissue is created after injury, new cells are laid down excessively and in a disorganized manner. Scar tissue/ adhesions prevent the muscle or other tissues from lengthening appropriately.” 

IASTM is a way for physical therapists to use controlled microtrauma to stimulate a natural inflammatory response. When your body produces an inflammatory response, it triggers a series of events that include reabsorption of excess scar tissue and fibrosis that is causing restriction.

Additionally, IASTM also triggers a vascular response resulting in increased blood flow and improved healing. There is even a neural effect throughout pain receptors along the skin responsible for managing pain.

Who can benefit from IASTM?

IASTM treatment can be beneficial for a variety of impairments and conditions. It can be beneficial for many people undergoing orthopedic surgery, people that sit for long hours in an office, and athletes after intense training or injuries. Your physical therapist may provide you this manual therapy for impairments such as:

  • Limited mobility
  • Pain with motion
  • Loss of range of motion
  • Decreased muscle recruitments
  • Excessive scar tissue formation 

More specific conditions that benefit from the application of IASTM include:

  • Plantar Fasciitis
  • Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
  • Neck Pain
  • IT Band Syndrome
  • Heel Pain/ Achilles Tendinitis
  • Ankle Sprains and Strains
  • Back Pain
  • Shin Splints
  • Post Surgical Hip and Knee Replacements
  • Musculoskeletal Imbalances
  • Rotator Cuff Tendinitis
  • Myofascial Pain and Restrictions

Physical Therapy for Neck Pain

For certain conditions, instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization may not be recommended. These can include having:

  • Unhealed Fracture
  • Hematoma
  • Hemophilia
  • Uncontrolled Hypertension
  • Open Wound
  • Patient Hypersensitivity 

What to expect during and after an IASTM Treatment

IASTM treatments during physical therapy sessions are often paired with a warm-up such as heat, stationary bike, elliptical machine, or light jogging to make the tissue more pliable. After a warm-up, your therapist can begin working with stainless steel, plastic, or titanium instruments that contour to your body in order to find the specific tissue and muscles that are restricted.

Tools used by Physical Therapist for IASTM

Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization starts with gentle pressure and steadily increases in order to effectively treat the areas causing pain and movement restrictions. At Balanced Physical Therapy, we encourage open communication and let our therapists know when the pressure becomes too uncomfortable to tolerate.

After the IASTM treatment, most patients follow up with more exercise to help restore better movement patterns. Some soreness after treatments is considered normal; patients should not panic because it does go away and gets less severe with multiple treatments. If you are attending physical therapy anywhere from 2-3 times per week, a noticeable result can be felt by the 3rd or 4th appointment (sometimes even on the first treatment). When IASTM is combined with exercise, stretching, and a focused effort on home exercises, patients can progress reasonably quickly through their recovery.

If you would like to learn more about IASTM or are experiencing pain, tension and movement restrictions give us a call to speak with a therapist. Our team is always ready to help you make the best decision with regard to your overall health and wellness.

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Dry Needling Therapy

Dry Needling: Therapy for Pain and Movement Impairments

Leave a Comment / Treatments, Mobility, Pain Management /

Balanced PTs are licensed and certified to provide dry-needling treatment to help with neuromusculoskeletal pain and movement impairment. Learn more about the dry needling and which specific conditions can benefit the most from this treatment.

What is Dry Needling (DN)?

Dry needling is a safe and minimally invasive treatment used to help patients with neuromusculoskeletal pain and movement impairments(Mayo Clinic). Some benefits include decreased muscular pain, easing trigger points, and improved range of motion.

It is administered by certified and trained healthcare professionals such as physical therapists, medical doctors, and some chiropractors. Some other common names for dry needling therapy include trigger point dry needling (TDN) and Functional Dry Needling (FDN).

Difference Between DN and Acupuncture?

While DN stems from traditional Chinese medicine like acupuncture, it is a treatment that has evolved into a modern Western medicine treatment. Inserting needles into the skin is something both dry needling therapy and acupuncture share, but after that, the treatments are undoubtedly different (Denver Physical Medicine and Rehab).

Acupuncture treatments are more of traditional Eastern medicine based on restoring the proper energy flow throughout the body by inserting needles along meridian lines. 

DN therapy has been developing since the 1980s and focuses on relieving chronic and acute pain by inserting needles into trigger points to restore normal function. Many athletes and people with musculoskeletal conditions have turned to DN in the past several years to help alleviate pain, accelerate recovery, improve muscle function, and enhance overall mobility.

Will DN Work For Me?

Patients experiencing chronic pain are typically great candidates for dry needling therapy. Patients can expect to see the most significant benefits when DN is incorporated with exercise, manual therapy, stretching, and education. It is a low-cost, low-risk treatment that can help with conditions such as (Virginia Sports Medicine Institute):

  • Acute and Chronic Tendonitis/ Tendinosis
  • Athletic Overuse Injuries
  • Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
  • Frozen Shoulder
  • Muscle Spasms
  • Whiplash from auto accidents
  • Ehlers Danlos Syndrome
  • Fibromyalgia
  • IT Band Syndrome
  • Sciatic pain
  • Tennis and Golfer’s Elbow
  • Neck and lower back pain

Dry Needling Therapy

While DN can be beneficial to many different types of conditions, it is also essential to know when this treatment is not appropriate. DN is not suitable and potentially harmful (Cleveland Clinic) for the following reasons:

  • A patient with a needle phobia
  • Pregnancy (first trimester)
  • Patient with an allergy to metals
  • Patients who have an infection present
  • Needling over cosmetic implants
  • Patients with a heart valve replacement (endocarditis)
  • Patients with epilepsy (or other seizure disorders)

Suppose you are looking for natural pain management treatment options, and dry needling is not an option. In that case, we always recommend scheduling an appointment with your primary care physician, orthopedic surgeon, or physical therapist. They will be able to diagnose your pain and provide you with a list of safe treatments available near you.

How Does Dry Needling Work?

Multiple clinical studies show that dry needling works by restoring muscles to a normal resting state. We know that patients suffering from chronic pain, a traumatic injury, or overused muscles often develop trigger points (also known as knots) that cause pain and discomfort. 

Looking further into why this causes you pain, research shows that the trigger points form due to prolonged or abnormal muscle contraction where your muscle is not receiving enough blood supply. The lack of blood supply (filled with oxygen and nutrients required for healing) to an injured area will cause the surrounding tissue and nerves to become more sensitive.

By stimulating the trigger point with a sterile needle, dry needling therapy can help drive more blood to an injured area, release muscular tension, and help the brain release endorphins that promote healing.

Step By Step Treatment Review

Before administering dry needling therapy to any patient, your physical therapist will examine your past medical history to ensure the treatment is appropriate and safe. Part of the evaluation will also consist of your therapist using palpation skills to identify trigger points causing pain and limited motion.

Once you and your therapist agree that dry needling will benefit your recovery, the therapist will go over each part of the treatment in more detail (Verywell Health). Specific details that help patients understand dry needling can include:

  • How long does dry needling take? Typically, a single treatment can take anywhere from 15 to 30 minutes, which is most commonly a part of a total of 30 to 60 physical therapy sessions.
  • What to wear for a dry needling appointment: We recommend our patients wear the usual, comfortable physical therapy attire. Clothing that allows easy access for your therapist to administer the treatment is always a good idea. 
  • Insurance information and expected costs: Some insurances do cover DN, while others do not. It helps to know upfront what co-pay and out-of-pocket costs to expect.

Once an evaluation is complete, some patients can start dry needling therapy that same day ( others may need to wait until the second appointment; this varies from clinician to clinician.)

Your physical therapist will always begin the dry needling procedure by sterilizing the treatment area and preparing the needles in a private setting. After preparing the treatment area, the therapist will start inserting thin, dry needles (needles that do not contain medications or fluids ) into problem-causing trigger points. 

The dry needles are inserted directly into the skin at varying depths (depending on the DN technique). Oftentimes, patients will feel the physical therapist gently move the needle around to stimulate a local twitch response. A local twitch is good, as it signifies that a muscle is reacting to the treatment.

After 15-30 minutes, your therapist will carefully remove the dry needles. They will inspect the treatment area for bleeding and skin reactions before leaving for home.

What To Expect After Your Appointment

After a dry needling treatment session, patients often report decreased pain and increased range of motion. A patient will require more than one treatment to reach the desired results in more severe cases.

Muscle soreness and light bruising are common side effects of dry needling, for which your therapist may recommend rest, heat, or ice. These symptoms typically resolve themselves over a couple of days to a week.

If you are experiencing more severe side effects (these are considered rare), such as difficulty breathing or significant bleeding, we recommend contacting emergency medical services immediately.

Schedule Your Assessment Today

Balanced Physical Therapy is located in Royal Oak and Mt. Clemens, Michigan. Our patients enjoy working in one-on-one therapy settings with board-certified physical therapists. To schedule an appointment, call us at (586) 741-5806 or visit our Appointments page to schedule an evaluation.

 

 

 

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Preventing Overtraining Syndrome

Prevent Overtraining Syndrome and Overuse Injuries in Youth Sports

1 Comment / Sports Medicine, Pain Management, Treatments /

Helping parents, coaches, and young athletes understand overtraining syndrome (OTS), the specific injuries associated with overuse, early signs of detection, and general guidelines for training.

Overtraining in Youth Sports

With over 30 million youth sports participants ages 6 to 18, it is important for parents and coaches to know about overtraining syndrome (OTS), the specific injuries associated with overuse, early signs of detection, and general guidelines for training.

Every year more children and adolescents are participating in organized and recreational sports. This is a great sign in the fight against childhood obesity as it builds lifelong physical activity habits, promotes healthy competition, and builds skills for future opportunities. Unfortunately one of the downsides with increased activity in youth sports is the increased risk of overtraining, overuse injuries, and burnout.

What is Overtraining Syndrome (OTS)?

Overtraining Syndrome (OTS) is more commonly referred to as “burnout”. OTS or “burnout” is caused by intensely working the body for long amounts of time without allowing the time for rest and recovery.

The American Academy of Pediatrics describes overtraining syndromes as a “series of psychological, physiologic, and hormonal changes that result in a decreased athletic performance. With so many options such as football, gymnastics, swimming, wrestling, and tennis at all levels; kids have naturally become more likely to suffer from injury.

What is an Overuse Injury?

Overtraining can directly cause an overuse injury. Overuse injuries often include damage to bone, muscle, and tendons. These injuries can be classified into 4 stages:

  1. Pain in the affected area after physical activity
  2. Pain during physical activity, but not restricting performance
  3. Pain during physical activity that also restricts performance
  4. Chronic, persistent pain, even at rest

Because young athletes’ bodies are still developing, they are more susceptible to overuse injuries. Their bones are still growing, therefore cannot handle as much stress as fully developed adults. Generally, the best way to prevent major overuse injuries is to understand and identify the young athlete who is at most at risk.

If your young athlete is showing signs of injury, it is always a good idea to get a professional assessment. A physical therapist can diagnose the injury and provide a treatment plan to safely return to competition.  Contact Balanced Physical Therapy to schedule a free injury screening or comprehensive evaluations here.

Common Overuse Injuries in Youth Sports

Some examples of overuse injuries and risks that may result from overtraining in youth sports include:

Little league and travel baseball players can be at risk for throwing injuries such as medial apophysitis or “little leaguer’s elbow”. Too much overhand throwing, especially with poor technique, can result in excess inflammation and irritation in the elbow. This can have long-lasting effects on the medial apophysis growth plate.

A child or adolescent gymnast can be at risk for developing spondylosis (pain in the spine due to deterioration) when doing repetitive hyperextension and rotation while participating.

Preventing Overtraining in Youth Athletes

Young swimmers are susceptible to shoulder injuries such a rotator cuff or bicep tendonitis, shoulder impingement, and neck pains.

Track and distance runners often develop shin splints and stress fractures as a result of overtraining.

These injuries are commonly caused over time, and not suddenly. This is good news, especially for parents and coaches who know the signs of overtraining and overuse.

Signs of Overtraining and Burnout

Parents and coaches concerned about the possibility of overtraining have multiple ways to tell when a young athlete needs more time to rest and recover. The Boston Children’s Hospital lists common signs of overtraining that include:

  • Slower times in distance sports
  • A decrease in athletic performance
  • Decreased ability to achieve training goals
  • Decreased motivation to practice
  • Young athlete getting tired easily
  • Irritability and unwillingness to work with teammates
  • Disturbance in sleep schedule
  • Weight loss or appetite changes

How To Prevent Overtraining Syndrome

General guidelines suggest that to promote fun, develop skills, and achieve individual goals; a young athlete requires good training and rest balance. Some ways to prevent overuse injuries and burnout include:

  • Encourage young athletes to take 1-2 rest days per week. This allows time to recover physically and psychologically between competition.
  • Advise young athletes that their weekly training time, repetitions, or total distance should not increase more than 10% per week.
  • Encourage athletes to take a seasonal rest from a single sport for 2-3 months a year. Taking breaks and developing other skills are essential for preventing injuries.
  • Focus on proper nutrition, hydration, and sleep.
  • Be mindful and cautious when entering multiple tournaments on consecutive weeks
  • Be consistent with yearly checkups with pediatricians and family physicians. 
  • Emphasize that the reason we participate in sports is to have fun, develop healthy lifestyle habits, and improve athletic skills.

Using these guidelines, parents, coaches, and healthcare professionals can help keep young athletes injury-free. Mixing in rest days and diversifying the activities kids participate in can help tremendously when developing skills and avoiding burnout.

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