You Don’t Have To Live With Arthritis Pain. Physical Therapy Can Help!

Did you know that arthritis is one of the leading causes of joint pain? It’s true. Arthritis can come from pain in the ankles, knees, hands, elbows, or hips, and it can affect just about anyone! Sometimes it’s a pop in your knee as you descend a flight of stairs, or a painful crack in your fingers when you try to open a jar. There’s a good chance you won’t realize how much you depend on your joints to perform painlessly until you’re experiencing joint pain daily.

Arthritis affects more than 50 million American adults, and is also the leading cause of disability in the United States. Most people believe it’s something that people only experience with old age, but it can actually happen to anyone at any age! More than 300,000 children and infants in the United States alone are diagnosed with arthritis, and unfortunately, this is a struggle that many of these children have dealt with from birth.

One of the best treatments for pain caused by arthritis is physical therapy. Most people think that physical therapy is a treatment only suitable for those who have suffered an injury or have a chronic health condition, but this simply isn’t true. Using physical therapy for the treatment of arthritis pain is very effective and widely recommended.

4 Ways Physical Therapy Can Relieve Arthritis Pain:

  1. It targets your pain through specialized treatments. Hot and cold therapy, therapeutic massage, and chiropractic care all provide optimal pain relief from arthritis. Many physical therapists utilize these forms of therapy.
  2. Physical therapy improves muscle strength, which supports your joints. Weakness in the surrounding muscles can put extra stress on your joints, thereby causing you to experience more joint pain during the smallest movements, like writing or picking up an object.
  3. It improves your range of motion. Physical therapy is a great way to improve your range of motion, which in turn supports optimal joint functionality.
  4. Physical therapists are experts at targeting the source of joint pain. Occasionally arthritis pain may be triggered by an environmental factor. Working with an experienced physical therapist can provide insight into the cause of your pain. Your physical therapist can help you make adjustments to environmental factors to decrease your level of discomfort.

Arthritis can happen to anyone at any age. Though women are more likely to experience joint pain than men, statistics show almost two-thirds of people dealing with pain from arthritis are of working age. This means regardless of gender, those between the ages of 20 and 65 are actually at the greatest risk of developing this type of pain. Learning how to manage arthritis head on is important, and while pain medications can help to reduce the amount of pain you feel, pills don’t fix the problem. This is why physical therapy is commonly referred to as one of the best solutions for the treatment of arthritis joint pain.

If you are experiencing regular joint pain that is interrupting your life, then it’s time to look for help. No matter what age you are, the correct way to ensure that your treatment is right for your personal needs is to consult a physical therapist. The beauty of physical therapy is that it is targeted and personalized treatment created to meet your individual needs. Contact our office today for more information on setting up an appointment with a physical therapist, so you can get back to doing the things you love without arthritis pain.

Stop Relying On Opioids To Manage Your Pain. Physical Therapy Can Help!

Do you depend on drugs like oxycodone or hydrocodone just to make it through your day without crippling pain? Do you find yourself watching the clock anxiously until it’s time for your next dosage? If you answered yes to either of these questions, it’s possible you’re on the brink of opioid dependence.

You might be wondering how these drugs are affecting your long-term health, and with good reason! Opioid dependence can be a deadly situation.The good news is that you can kick your dependence on opioid drugs without ending up trapped by debilitating pain, thanks to the solutions provided by physical therapy. Contact our physical therapy office today to get started on this healthy, drug-free approach to pain management.

What Are Opioids, And How Do They Work?

Opioids are strong painkillers that are often prescribed to offset the effect of severe chronic pain. Traditionally, they are derived from substances in the poppy plant. Morphine, oxycodone,codeine, and hydrocodone are opioids that can relieve pain where other drugs fail.

It is common for doctors to prescribe these to patients dealing with pain due to cancer, acute injuries, and neurological or musculoskeletal pain. Subsequently, they can also produce feelings of euphoria, which in turn makes them substance that is extremely abused and addictive in both legal and illegal forms(such as heroin).

By attaching to opioid receptors in the brain and other structures of the body, opioids prevent the receptors against receiving pain signals. Simultaneously, the opioids trigger the release of large amounts of dopamine, a substance that gives a feeling of pleasure.

The Danger of Opioid Addiction

Opioids do more harm than good. These drugs are so effective at seemingly “getting rid of” the pain, but unfortunately, the painkilling and pleasurable benefits of opioids come at a terrifying price. The issue is that people become addicted to opioids because of the euphoric highs they experience while using them.

As a result of long-term opioid usage, the body builds up a tolerance to the drugs, and then will require larger doses in order to achieve the same effects. This ultimately leads to a very strong, very dangerous level of addiction.

It’s no surprise that more than 11 million Americans abuse opioids. Sadly, escalating tolerance levels in opioid users can result in them taking a fatal dose. Two-thirds of all overdose deaths in the U.S. are related to some form of opioid.

Physical Therapy Can Kick Opioid Dependency.

Opioid dependence can be avoided. Physical therapy is an excellent and safe alternative to drugs. An experienced physical therapist can prescribe you customized treatment method that will help joints move more freely, loosen tight muscles, reduce inflammation, build up muscle strength, and help decrease the effects of neurological problems (for example, herniated discs and pinched nerves).

Physical therapy might be for you if:

  • You’re having issues with addiction and depression or physical side effects as a result of continued opioid usage (or you want to avoid these issues altogether!)
  • You have a chronic, incurable pain condition that might otherwise you to use opioids for your entire life
  • You have musculoskeletal or neuromuscular pain
  • Treating the underlying cause of the pain, instead of simply numbing it, is your ultimate goal

Even if your pain cannot be depleted entirely through physical therapy, treatment may still ease your symptoms enough so that you don’t have to take the maximum dosage of painkillers any longer. However, please be aware that if you’re currently dependent on opioids, your doctor must supervise any changes in dosage.

Your opioid dependency can stop today. Call our office to set up a time for a consult with one of our physical therapists about drug-free pain management options.

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Get Back to Comfort with These Back Exercises – All of Which You Can Do at Home!

Are you feeling back pain after being quarantined to your home? You may be wondering, “Why is this? I’ve barely left the couch!” Well, therein lies the issue.

The sedentary lifestyle that I’m sure many people have experienced since being quarantined to their homes can actually lead to more aches, pains, and discomfort than one may think - especially in the back.

Your body, quite simply, was made to move! With gyms and exercise classes closing down for the time being, it can be difficult to find the motivation to get your daily physical activity while sitting at home. Luckily, there are several easy exercises you can do on your own to relieve your back pain and get moving! 

Always exercise and stretch within your comfort zone. Never push into pain and if you are unsure of doing any of the exercises below, simply consult your physical therapist first.

6 exercises to stretch those back muscles:

  • Lumbar Rotation Stretch in Lying. Back giving you troubles? Try a Lumbar Rotation Stretch in Lying. Lying sideways with your top knee bent and bottom knee straight, gently rotate your torso so your head is facing the opposite direction of your legs. Hold the stretch and then switch sides. This will stretch out your back and get you feeling comfortable once again!

Here is a video for your reference: https://vimeo.com/333092920/1dbb30daae

  • Bird Dog (Leg Slide). With major businesses shutting down, we know how disappointing it is to not be able to attend the weekly yoga classes you enjoy so much. Fortunately, you can bring the same yoga stretches to your own home. Begin on the floor with your knees bent beneath you and your hands flat in front of you, so your back is flat toward the ceiling. Stretch your left arm out in front of you and your right leg out behind you, so your toes are pointing down at the ground. Hold this stretch and then repeat on the opposite side, with your right arm and your left leg. The Bird Dog (Leg Slide) exercise is great at targeting the back muscles to give you that relieving stretch you’re looking for! 

Here is a video for your reference: https://vimeo.com/371130374/85ad5de4ee

  • Hip Bias Lunges (Back Heel Down). Who doesn’t love a good lunge? This is a great exercise to get you moving. As a bonus, it not only targets your back but also focuses on your knee muscles. Begin standing in a slight lunge position with one leg slightly bent out in front of you and the other leg straight behind you. Lean your torso forward so it is almost in a 90 degree angle with the floor (this will cause your back leg to bend, as well). Hold this stretch and continue reps on the side you are on, then switch sides repeating the same steps.

Here is a video for your reference: https://vimeo.com/391227766/dc90917bdc 

  • Standing Hip Abduction 45 Degree Angle Back Arom. This exercise may have a lengthy name, but we promise it’s not that difficult! For this exercise, you will need a chair or something else to steady yourself. Stand with your left hand on the back of the chair and place your right hand on your hip. Keeping your back straight and face forward, slowly kick your back leg out behind you until you feel the stretch in your back. Continue a few reps and then switch sides, placing your left hand on your hip and kicking your left leg out behind you. Make sure to always keep the opposite hand on the chair to steady yourself. 

Here is a video for your reference: https://vimeo.com/285854056/0165cea4f4

  • Standing Shoulder Flex/Hip Extension With Back Arch (Wall). Another exercise that has a lengthy name but is very easy to do! For this exercise, you will begin standing with your hands outstretched directly in front of you on a wall. In a fluid “swinging” motion, extend your right arm and left leg behind you so your back is arched, then bring them both toward the wall. Continue doing this in fluid motions. After a few reps, repeat this exercise on the other side of your body, with your left arm and right leg.

Here is a video for your reference: https://vimeo.com/394420569/71808708d0

  • Neural Mobility SLR (Outward Turn). Looking for a great way to stretch your back, legs, and glutes at the same time? This exercise is for you! Begin by laying down on your back with both arms clasped around your right hamstring. Raise that leg in the air, keeping the left one bent with your feet flat on the ground. Flex your right foot that is in the air so that the bottom of your foot is flat facing the ceiling, then point that foot so that your toes are straight up toward the ceiling. Then, slowly bring that leg back down to a bent position between your hands. Continue for a few reps and then switch legs, repeating the same steps.

Here is a video for your reference: https://vimeo.com/370059225/1087fe3a40

Questions?

If you have any questions about any of these exercises or if you are looking for more ways to relieve back pain during the quarantine, call or message TheraFit at any time. We want to make sure you are as comfortable as possible while also staying active at home!

Relieve Your Arthritis Pains with Physical Therapy Treatments

Are you suffering from the aches, pains, and stiffness of arthritis? If so, you’re not alone. There are millions of people who live with arthritis, and it is no secret that it can limit your life. Fortunately, participating in regular physical therapy treatments can help manage your arthritis pain and reduce your symptoms. For more information on how our services can decrease or even eliminate your pain altogether, contact our office today!

What will I get out of a physical therapy program?

Physical therapy can improve your daily life by making it easier to live with arthritis. Just a few of the many ways this is accomplished is by:

  • Learning how to correctly use devices. A trained physical therapist can help you learn how to use orthotics, walkers, and any other assistive device correctly. This will help lessen the strain on joints when you move and ensure that you are using the devices safely.
  • Increasing your range of motion. A physical therapy program can help reduce stiffness by keeping both your muscles and ligaments loose. This will lessen your pain and improve your overall range of mobility.
  • Strengthening your muscles. When the muscles that surround and support your aching joints are stronger and more flexible, your arthritis pain will be much less severe. Physical therapy techniques can be used to increase strength, which in turn will relieve pain.

What exactly is physical therapy?

Unfortunately, there is not yet a known cure for arthritis. Physical therapy won’t reverse your arthritic condition, but it can help slow the process and decrease symptoms. Essentially, physical therapy can help you live more comfortably with your condition.

Your physical therapist will prescribe targeted exercises and stretches that will keep joints mobile and pain-free. He or she may also help you maintain a healthy body weight as needed, in order to decrease unnecessary strain on your joints.

Physical therapy may also help you avoid taking excessive amounts of medication in order to reduce your pain. A physical therapist is trained to evaluate your condition and provide the correct exercises to meet your needs. A common physical therapy exercise for arthritis patients is aquatic therapy, as working out in water allows for a soothing and non-impact exercise.

How can diet affect my arthritis?

Did you know that a healthy diet can help decrease arthritis pains? When you are experiencing pain and inflammation, it is important to stay away from foods containing high levels of sugar, MSG, and refined carbs. Some foods that can help ease your symptoms include:

  • Ginger. Ginger may be able to help reduce inflammation and alleviate arthritis pain. It also adds incredible flavor to almost any food, including soups, fruits, veggies, and meat.
  • Soy. Soy is high in protein and low in fat, and it is also a great tasting way to fight inflammation. You can get your soy through tofu, soy milk, or roasted soybeans.
  • Broccoli. Broccoli has an ingredient called sulforaphane, which has the ability to slow down or even prevent osteoarthritis. Broccoli is great served hot or cold, in salads, or as a casserole.
  • Walnuts. Much like the nutrients you find in fish, walnuts are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which can reduce inflammation. Walnuts can be eaten alone or added to almost any sweet or salty dish.

The goals of a physical therapist:

Physical therapists are trained in multiple different methods of treatment. One of the most common treatment methods for arthritis is massage, as it is a great way to loosen up the stiff or inflamed muscles and tendons around the arthritic joint(s). Additional treatments may include ice and heat therapies, ultrasound, or laser therapy as your physical therapist deems fit. These all help in decreasing inflammation, relieving pain, and loosening up tight muscles.

One of the many goals of a physical therapist is to help you achieve the most active lifestyle possible for your condition. Just because you have arthritis doesn’t mean you can’t still enjoy the activities you love! Your physical therapist will design an individualized treatment plan for you, in order to keep your tendons, muscles, and joints working together in harmony.

Are you ready to relieve your arthritis pains? Contact our office today to get started on your journey toward long-lasting relief!

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5 Quick Tips for Less Pain and More Energy

Millions of individuals live with varying degrees of pain while also experiencing limited amounts of energy. There are several quick and effective ways you can increase your energy levels while reducing pain. Incorporating physical therapy into your regular routine is one way to limit pain. Call TheraFit™ Physical Therapy for more information regarding the use of physical therapy for pain relief.

1. Change Your Diet

What you eat can have an enormous impact on how much pain you experience and the amount of energy you have throughout the day. There are several foods that can help reduce pain and inflammation while also raising energy levels.

  • Cherries – Eating cherries is a delicious way to increase antioxidant levels, which can reduce inflammation and inhibit pain.
  • Ginger – The ginger plant, which is often used as a spice, can help reduce migraine pain, muscle achiness and nausea.
  • Salmon – This wonder food provides omega-3 fatty acids that aid in reducing neck, back and joint pain.
  • Hot Peppers – Even a half-teaspoon of powdered pepper each day may help reduce arthritis pain.

2. Check Your Mattress

You spend approximately one-third of your time sleeping. This means the quality of your mattress can affect how you feel during your waking hours. While it used to be believed that a firm mattress was usually better for those suffering from most types of pain, you’re now recommended to choose a mattress according to your sleep style.

  • Firm Mattress – Those who sleep on their back may feel better with a medium to firm mattress.
  • Soft Mattress – Side sleepers generally will want to try a softer mattress.
  • Memory Foam – Individuals who tend to toss and turn and sleep in a variety of positions should try a memory foam mattress.

3. Boost Natural Endorphins

Exercise can release endorphins, which are feel-good chemicals in the body that can naturally reduce pain. It may seem more difficult to exercise while experiencing achy joints and muscles, but even a moderate amount of physical activity can help you feel better long after your workout is over. Other ways to naturally release endorphins include listening to your favorite music, eating chocolate and smelling the soothing scent of lavender.

4. Reduce Stress

Stress can contribute to both emotional anxiety as well as physical pain. You need to have several quick stress-busters in your bag of tricks to reduce anxiety whenever it pops up. A warm bath is a quick way to instantly soothe aching muscles and joints while calming your nerves. Even simple breathing techniques can limit pain and energize your body. Take two or three deep breaths, and then slowly release them. Always make sure to breathe through your nose to get the most benefits.

5. Visit a Physical Therapist

Physical therapy can do wonders for addressing pain and limited energy. A trained physical therapist can offer several types of methods to not only provide pain relief for symptoms but to treat the source of your pain. Some of the specific treatments a therapist might use include the following:

  • Heat or Cold Therapy – Heat can warm tendons and muscles so they move easier. Ice can reduce inflammation.
  • Massage Therapy – A physical therapist can massage and manipulate specific joints and muscles to reduce pain.
  • Aquatic Therapy – Water can stimulate nerves and provide resistance for exercise and strength training.
  • Ultrasound – Ultrasound produces sound waves that can assist in blocking pain signals to the brain.

Incorporating these tips into your daily routine can help reduce the amount of pain you’re experiencing while providing an energy boost. Contact our Fayetteville or Hazel Green office today to find out how physical therapy can be part of helping you enjoy a pain-free life!

Get Back to Your Daily Life Quicker with Pre-hab

It is common knowledge that post-surgical rehabilitation is necessary following almost any surgical procedure. This rehab is performed after surgery as a way to enhance the recovery process and help patients regain their mobility.

But did you know you can also participate in rehab treatments before your surgery? Pre-surgical rehabilitation, commonly referred to as “pre-hab,” is a way to help speed up your recovery time even more and make the surgery itself easier on your body. Pre-hab has been proven to both reduce recovery time and improve the overall outcomes of the surgery.

If you have a surgery coming up and you’re looking for an effective way to prepare, contact us today to consult with one of our licensed physical therapists about pre-hab.

The many benefits of pre-hab:

Pre-hab has been proven to significantly enhance the recovery process for those who decide to partake in it. In fact, in a study published by the Arthritis Foundation, three universities in Boston demonstrated that patients who engaged in pre-hab had much better outcomes following surgery.

Working with a physical therapist before surgery makes it possible to get out of the hospital faster. For example, studies done on knee replacement patients concluded that the patients who went through pre-hab treatments before their knee surgery were able to meet the requirements to get out of the hospital much quicker than those who did not go through any physical therapy prior to surgery.

In most cases, knee replacement patients must walk a certain distance and travel up a certain amount of stairs before they can leave. For patients that have worked with a physical therapist before surgery, meeting these requirements is easier to do. Their bodies are stronger due to physical therapy; therefore, they are able to recover much faster.

What’s the difference between rehab and pre-hab?

Rehab

It is completely normal to feel some pain and discomfort following surgery. It may feel difficult to make certain movements, and you will likely have to limit your physical activity for a set amount of time after your procedure. However, it is important to make sure you are still getting the movement you need, so you can regain your optimum function following surgery. This is where rehab comes in.

Rehab is a must following surgery. A physical therapist can help you move safely, in ways that will fight inflammation and keep adhesions from forming. Rehab treatments with a licensed physical therapist will also help increase your strength, so you can get back to your normal life after surgery.

Pre-hab

Pre-hab with a physical therapist helps you get a jump-start on the recovery process, and it can allow for a more successful surgical process. It reduces inflammation and increases strength, which can make the job of the surgeon (and your body’s natural healing response!) much easier. While rehab works to strengthen your body after surgery, pre-hab works to strengthen your body before the surgery.

Spending even a few sessions with a physical therapist will help improve your overall health before undergoing your procedure, so you’ll have more strength stored up to help you along your recovery. Instead of starting out rehab feeling fully depleted, you will already have some built-up strength to make the process much easier on yourself.

Make the most of your surgery:

The benefits of pre-hab treatments are immeasurable Contact us today to schedule your appointment and find out how our pre-hab services can help you. Our dedicated physical therapists will create a personalized treatment plan for your specific needs, in order to improve your strength before your surgery. If you want to get back to your daily life quicker by ensuring a quicker recovery rate and smoother outcome, don’t hesitate to contact us! Make the most of your surgery by participating in pre-hab treatments today.

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Improve Your Health, Strength, and Physical Activity with These 4 Simple Tips!

It’s not always easy to be active. We’ve all been there – letting the dumbbells collect dust in the garage, throwing the yoga mat in the storage closet, constantly walking by the running shoes without a second glance. However, once you get in the habit of being habit, it becomes much easier. With these 4 simple tips, you can achieve an active lifestyle even with your busy schedule!

1. Trick yourself into exercising.

It can be hard to find the time to exercise throughout the day – so try sneaking it in! Physical therapy often prescribes small changes to a person’s routine, in order to make the adjustments manageable. Some simple ways to be more active during your daily tasks include:

  • Opting for the stairs instead of the escalator or elevator.
  • Exiting the bus one stop early and walk the rest of the way.
  • Parking farther away from your destination and walking the extra distance.
  • Maintaining your yard – raking leaves, shoveling snow, mowing the lawn, etc.
  • Taking the dog on walks with the whole family.
  • Walking up and down the field while your children are playing sports.

2. Maintain a healthy diet.

Maintaining a healthy diet doesn’t mean you aren’t allowed to spoil yourself with treats every now and then. Nutrition is all about balance – so just make sure you balance those treats with some healthier choices. This includes:

  • Snacking smart. It is good to snack! – as long as it’s healthy. So instead of those pretzels, try grabbing some peanuts. Snacking keeps you at your best so that you can sustain your energy and stay positive.
  • Avoiding “meal skips.” Many people think that dieting includes “eating less,” but skipping meals can be just as detrimental to your nutrition as over-eating. Eating consistently provides your mind and body with the fuel necessary to help you get and stay active. It also helps you avoid your blood sugar dropping, which can lead to nervousness, irritability, and a whole host of other problems.
  • Implementing Uncle Sam’s recipe for health. “What is this?” you may ask – it is essentially the following: lots of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and fat-free or low-fat dairy products; some lean meats or meat substitutes, including beans, eggs and nuts; and minimal saturated fats, trans fats, cholesterol, salt, and added sugars.

3. Positivity goes a long way.

If you go in with a positive mindset, exercise and eating right will become significantly easier. Research shows that a positive attitude can boost your immune system and increase your energy levels. Even if you aren’t really excited about getting up to go for a run, your body will believe what you think. Essentially, “fake it ‘til you make it” – because that mantra really works!

4. Don’t be afraid to ask for help.

Did you know that over half of the United States suffers from some sort of limiting pain? Chronic pain can significantly hinder your quality of life, but physical therapy can fortunately help correct it. It is a natural, non-invasive, safe, and effective way to manage and treat pain. In many cases, it can even eliminate the need for harmful pain-management drugs or surgical correction. The best part of all is that physical therapy provides long-term relief, while other methods may only work in the short-term.

Physical therapy can help with all types of chronic musculoskeletal and neuropathic pain, from ongoing headaches to fibromyalgia. A physical therapist can manipulate your bones and joints to reduce discomfort. Your physical therapist will work with you to form an exercise and movement plan that lessens your pain and increases your mobility.

Contact us today!

No matter what age you are, our physical therapy treatment programs can help you get up and moving. If you’re looking to improve your health, strength, and physical activity, don’t hesitate to contact us today! We’ll get you started on a plan that will help your life your life to the fullest.

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Treat Your Back and Neck Pain with Our Advanced PT Methods

Did you know that studies say approximately 90% of people will be plagued by back or neck pain at some point in their lives? While it is a common complaint, it can sometimes be difficult to determine where the pain is originating on your own.

Sometimes pain in one area can travel to another part of the body. For example, if your pain is originating in your back or neck, it can sometimes also be felt in the head, arms, or legs. As pain progresses, it is possible for it to travel further from where it is rooted. Fortunately, physical therapy can help you manage your pain, and in many cases, eliminate it altogether. To find our how our advanced physical therapy methods can benefit you, contact our office today.

The benefits of physical therapy:

Physical therapy for back pain and neck pain is focused on the structures that support the spine. This includes the tendons, ligaments, muscles, and joints. Your treatment will include both active and passive forms of physical therapy, in order to achieve optimum relief, function, and injury prevention for the future.

Active physical therapy for neck and back pain typically includes specific exercises, stretches, adjustments, in order to manage or relieve your pain altogether. In some cases, aquatic therapy may be recommended, as the buoyancy of water takes pressure off of the cervical and lumbar spine while you’re performing the exercises.

Passive physical therapy includes different modalities, such as massage therapy,  ice and heat therapies, ultrasound, or electrotherapy. Massage therapy is used to reduce pain and relax the muscles. Ice or heat therapies help to reduce swelling and pain, in addition to increasing blood flow for healing. With electrotherapy, electrical impulses are sent to the sensory nerves, in order to alter pain signals. It’s a mildly warm sensation that reduces pain and relaxes muscles.

How can I get started?

Before your physical therapy treatments even start, a physical therapist will perform an examination to determine the root cause of your back or neck pain. A strength test will be performed and a goniometer may be used to measure your range of motion. You will be asked to perform certain tasks in order to determine your functional mobility.

Spinal mobility will be also measured through palpation, in order to locate sore or tight muscles. Your full medical history will be evaluated, in addition to your symptoms, in order to determine the nature and severity of your condition. Once your examination is complete, your physical therapist will design a personalized treatment plan that will target the cause of your back or neck pain and focus on providing relief.

What will my treatment plan look like?

There are several different causes of back and neck pain, which is why our dedicated physical therapists take the time to design an individualized treatment plan for each patient. Some of the most common conditions leading to back and neck pain are:

  • Sprains and strains. It’s not uncommon for athletes to incur sprains and strains to the neck or back regions when engaging in sports.
  • Sudden traumas or injuries. Sudden damage to the neck or back, such as a sports collision or whiplash, may result in back or neck pain.
  • Improper posture. Poor posture can cause unnecessary strains on the back and neck, resulting in pain and discomfort.
  • Disc herniation. A herniated disc occurs when the gel-like material of the disc bulges or leaks out.
  • Osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis is the “wear and tear” on the facet joints, which causes friction when bending. This can also result in a pinched nerve root, which can cause sciatica.
  • Degenerative disc disease. Degenerative disc disease occurs when there is “wear and tear” on the spinal discs.

Whatever the cause of your back or neck pain may be, physical therapy can help. If you’ve been limited by pain, contact our office today to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced and caring physical therapists. Don’t let your pain dictate your life – seek treatment today to relieve your condition and live comfortably once again!

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Are You Experiencing One of These 5 Common Shoulder Injuries? Find Relief With PT

Physical therapy is used to treat any sports injury, workplace injury, or musculoskeletal condition you may be experiencing. It is a natural, safe, and effective way to treat both acute and chronic pain.

One of the most common reasons people seek the help of a physical therapist is to manage chronic shoulder pain. There are a number of different reasons why shoulder pain may occur, and it can greatly limit your everyday life. If you have been experiencing shoulder pain, or decreased function within your shoulder, don’t hesitate to contact our office today.

5 of the most common shoulder injuries:

The average person probably doesn’t give much thought to their shoulders as they go about their day. However, your shoulders actually do quite a lot of work to help you complete everyday tasks, and if they become strained or injured, you could be left experience severe shoulder pain. Some of the most common causes of shoulder pain include:

1. Tendon tears

The tendons in your shoulder can tear as the result of an acute injury or certain degenerative conditions. The natural aging process, sudden injuries, and overuse often cause the tendons to split or tear. Whether a patient is experiencing a partial or a full tendon tear, the pain can be extremely intense and it may require regular appointments with a skilled physical therapist.

2. Bursitis

The shoulder is a complicated joint that is made up of an intricate network of moving parts. One of the key components that make up the shoulder is called bursa. The bursa contains tiny sacs of fluid that work to keep the shoulder joint lubricated. If the bursa becomes irritated or inflamed, you can develop bursitis, and you will need to schedule a physical therapy appointment as soon as possible.

3. Tendinitis

Tendinitis is a common condition that causes inflammation in the shoulder area, and it has been known to send many people straight to a physical therapist in order to find relief. The condition typically affects those who are physically active or people who work at a job that requires them to complete repetitive motions. For example, if you’re an athlete who plays tennis, or if you work as a professional painter, you could be at risk of developing tendinitis in your shoulder. If you are at a high risk of developing tendinitis, it is important to remember that along with physical therapy, resting your shoulders regularly can help to prevent chronic pain.

4. Frozen shoulder

Frozen shoulder typically occurs after an injury or alongside another shoulder condition. Most physical therapists recommend that patients with frozen shoulder get plenty of rest in-between physical therapy appointments, in order to avoid developing scar tissue in the shoulder. If scar tissue does develop, the muscles surrounding the shoulder could eventually freeze up as well, restricting your full range of motion and resulting in chronic pain.

5. Impingement

Shoulder impingement can occur when the top part of the shoulder blade puts excessive pressure on the underlying soft tissues in the arm when it is lifted away from the body. As the arm lifts, the shoulder blade rubs against the tendons and bursa. If left untreated, impingement in the shoulder can result in bursitis and/or tendinitis.

Schedule a consultation with us today:

If you have sustained one of the injuries above, or if you’re looking for assistance with a difference shoulder pain condition, contact us today to schedule a consultation. Physical therapy is the ideal way to treat shoulder pain in people of all ages. Our dedicated physical therapists will address your condition and design the best treatment plan for your specific needs!

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Common Causes of Shoulder Pain and How Physical Therapy Can Help

Your shoulder is the most flexible and movable joint in your body, consisting of several bones, muscles, joints and tendons. This means there are several ways the shoulder can become injured and cause pain. There are many causes of shoulder pain and steps you can take to eliminate the discomfort. Physical therapy is an effective way of treating several types of shoulder pain. Call TheraFit™ to find out how working with an experienced physical therapist can help ease your shoulder pain.

Causes of Shoulder Pain

Sometimes, a sudden injury can occur that causes shoulder pain. Other times, repetitive motions can gradually cause joints, tendons and muscles in the shoulder area to hurt. Physical therapy can treat several specific conditions that may be contributing to the pain in your shoulder. A physical therapist can create a customized program to specifically meet your needs.

Torn Cartilage

A torn cartilage can produce a number of painful symptoms. These include limited range of motion, decreased strength and clicking sensations when you’re moving your arm. You may also experience pain when moving your arm in certain positions. Physical therapy can provide pain relief if you’re suffering from a torn cartilage.

Tendonitis

Tendonitis is an irritated or inflamed tendon. This condition can occur in a variety of locations throughout the body. Tennis elbow, swimmer’s shoulder and jumper’s knee are all specific types of tendonitis. Pain is often dull and achy. There is sometimes swelling and tenderness as well. A physical therapist can treat different types of tendonitis.

Sprains and Strains

Basic sprains and strains can cause ongoing shoulder pain that makes it difficult to perform daily activities. A sprain is when a ligament is stretched or torn. A strain involves a tendon or muscle that is stretched or torn. Minor sprains and strains can sometimes be iced at home and will eventually heal on their own. Those that are more severe will often require physical therapy.

Bursitis

Bursitis, or joint inflammation, often occurs in areas of the body that are used in the same repetitive motions. It specifically affects the fluid-filled sacs that surround and cushion the tendons, muscles and bones. Symptoms can include stiffness, achiness and the area appearing red or swollen. You’ll want to try physical therapy to ease your painful symptoms.

Frozen Shoulder

This is a painful condition that gradually worsens and then will normally resolve itself in a few years. In the meantime, frozen shoulder can produce ongoing pain and stiffness. A physical therapist can provide treatment options to address this condition.

Arthritis

There are several types of joint diseases that are considered as arthritis. Two of the most common include osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Osteoarthritis occurs when the cartilage between your bones breaks down and the bones begin to rub together. Physical therapy can ease your pain and improve mobility.

How Physical Therapy Can Help

A physical therapist can provide pain relief for a variety of conditions while also improving flexibility and range of motion. A trained physical therapist can use cold or heat therapy to ease pain and increase mobility. They often implement different types of manual therapy. Physical therapy could include kneading and massaging specific joints, tendons and muscles in the shoulder area. Sometimes, a physical therapist can teach you a series of exercises that you’ll be able to do at home that can provide pain relief while your shoulder is healing. Other techniques used might include aqua therapy, ultrasound or electrical nerve stimulation.

Whatever type of pain you’re experiencing, a trained physical therapist can create a program to treat your particular condition. Contact our Fayetteville or Hazel Green offices today to schedule a consultation with one of our physical therapists.