February 2023

Orthopedic Manual Physical Therapy: A Specialist Approach to Healing

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Orthopedic Manual Physical Therapy: A Specialist Approach to Healing Orthopedic manual physical therapy is a type of rehabilitation that is focused on the treatment of neuromusculoskeletal conditions. This approach is highly specialized and is carried out by therapists who have received additional training in the diagnosis and treatment of orthopedic conditions. Fellowship trained, orthopedic manual physical therapists are experts in the field and are dedicated to helping patients recover from their injuries and get back to their active lives. What is Orthopedic Manual Physical Therapy? Orthopedic manual physical therapy is a hands-on approach to treating neuromusculoskeletal conditions. This type of therapy involves the use of manual techniques to diagnose, treat, and prevent a wide range of conditions. These techniques are designed to help reduce pain, improve mobility, and enhance function. Orthopedic manual physical therapists use a variety of highly skilled interventions with both their hands and instruments to help the body to help resolve conditions and promote healing. Why Choose a Fellowship Trained Orthopedic Manual Physical Therapist? Fellowship trained, orthopedic manual physical therapists are experts in the field and have received additional training to specialize in the treatment of orthopedic conditions. This type of therapist has received advanced training in manual therapy techniques, electric dry needling, differential diagnosis, instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization, spinal and extremity manipulation, and functional biomechanics. Fellowship trained, orthopedic manual physical therapists also have a deeper understanding of the underlying mechanisms of musculoskeletal conditions and are able to diagnose and treat these conditions more effectively. Additionally, these therapists are equipped with the latest research and knowledge in the field, which allows them to provide the best possible care to their patients. They are also able to work in close collaboration with other healthcare providers, such as physicians and surgeons, to ensure that their patients receive the most comprehensive and effective care. What Conditions Can an Orthopedic Manual Physical Therapist Treat? Orthopedic manual physical therapists are trained to treat a wide range of conditions, including: -Low back pain -Neck pain -Shoulder pain -Hip pain -Knee pain -Ankle and foot pain -Tendinitis -Bursitis -Arthritis -Osteoarthritis -Sprains and strains -Headaches -Jaw Dysfunction In addition to these conditions, orthopedic manual physical therapists are also trained to treat sports injuries, work-related injuries, and post-surgical conditions. The Benefits of Orthopedic Manual Physical Therapy Orthopedic manual physical therapy offers a number of benefits to patients, including: -Reduced pain -Improved mobility and flexibility -Enhanced function -Increased strength -Improved posture -Enhanced athletic performance -Reduced risk of injury -Reduced need for medication Orthopedic manual physical therapy is a safe, non-invasive, and highly effective approach to the treatment of musculoskeletal conditions. With the help of a fellowship trained, orthopedic manual physical therapist, patients can expect to experience improved function, reduced pain, and a faster recovery from their injuries. In conclusion, orthopedic manual physical therapy is a specialized approach to the treatment of neuromusculoskeletal conditions. Fellowship trained, orthopedic manual physical therapists are experts in the field and are equipped with the latest knowledge and techniques to help patients recover from their injuries and get back to their active lives. If you are dealing with a musculoskeletal condition and are looking for a safe, effective, and non-invasive approach to your treatment, consider seeking out the services of a fellowship trained, orthopedic manual physical therapist.”

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Dry Needling in Physical Therapy: An Effective Treatment for Musculoskeletal Pain

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Dry Needling in Physical Therapy: An Effective Treatment for Musculoskeletal Pain If you’re dealing with chronic muscle pain, you may have heard of dry needling as a treatment option. This therapy involves the insertion of thin, sterile needles into specific points in the muscle to relieve pain and improve function. In recent years, dry needling has become a popular technique in physical therapy, and for good reason. Here, we’ll take a closer look at what dry needling is, how it works, and why it may be a beneficial treatment for musculoskeletal pain. What is Dry Needling in Physical Therapy? Dry needling is a type of manual therapy that uses thin, filiform needles to target tight knots of muscle fibers known as trigger points. These trigger points can be felt under the skin and can cause pain, discomfort, and muscle weakness. By inserting a needle into the trigger point, physical therapists aim to release the knot, reduce pain, and improve muscle function. How Does Dry Needling Work? The exact mechanisms of how dry needling works are complicated and multifactorial, however in general it is believed to stimulate the body’s natural healing process as well as the ability to “recalibrate” the nervous system to down regulate pain. The needle insertion causes a local inflammatory response, which promotes the release of pain-relieving substances such as endorphins and enkephalins. Dry needling also stimulates the nervous system, leading to a reduction in muscle tension and an improvement in blood flow. What Can Dry Needling Treat? Dry needling has been shown to be effective in treating a variety of musculoskeletal conditions, including: Low back pain Neck pain Headaches TMD Shoulder pain Tennis elbow Plantar fasciitis Knee pain Headaches Sciatica And More It’s important to note that dry needling is not a cure for these conditions, but rather a tool that physical therapists use to help manage pain and improve function. Is Dry Needling Safe? Dry needling is considered safe when performed by a properly trained physical therapist. The needles used are thin, sterile, and single-use, so there is minimal risk of infection. Some people may experience minor side effects such as pain or bruising at the needle insertion site, but these are typically short-lived and minor. Overall, dry needling is a safe and effective treatment for musculoskeletal pain. If you’re looking for a non-invasive way to manage your pain and improve your function, it may be worth talking to your physical therapist about whether dry needling is right for you. In conclusion, dry needling is a promising therapeutic technique for physical therapists to help manage pain and improve function in patients suffering from musculoskeletal conditions. If you’re considering this treatment, be sure to consult a qualified and experienced physical therapist who has undergone proper training in dry needling techniques.

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Cervicogenic Headaches: What and How?

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Cervicogenic headaches are a type of headache that originates from the neck. These headaches are caused by problems in the cervical spine, such as injury, arthritis, or muscle strain. Here’s what you need to know about this type of headache and how to manage it: Symptoms: Cervicogenic headaches typically present as a dull pain on one side of the head, neck, and shoulder, and can last from a few hours to several days. Other symptoms may include neck stiffness, pain in the jaw or behind the eye, and tenderness in the neck muscles. Causes: Cervicogenic headaches are often caused by issues with the cervical spine, such as a neck injury, spinal stenosis, or degenerative arthritis. They may also be caused by poor posture or repetitive stress, such as prolonged computer use or texting. Diagnosis: Your doctor may use a combination of physical examination, imaging tests, and patient history to diagnose a cervicogenic headache. In some cases, a nerve block may be performed to confirm the source of the pain. Treatment: Treatment for cervicogenic headaches may include physical therapy, chiropractic care, massage, and pain medication. In some cases, a neck brace or cervical collar may be recommended to help alleviate the pain. Stretching and strengthening exercises can also help to improve neck flexibility and reduce the risk of future headaches. Prevention: To prevent cervicogenic headaches, it is important to maintain good posture and take frequent breaks from prolonged activities that strain the neck, such as working at a computer or reading. It is also important to practice stress management techniques and get regular exercise to help improve overall neck and spine health. Cervicogenic headaches can be a frustrating and painful experience, but with the right treatment and preventative measures, they can be managed effectively. If you are experiencing frequent headaches, it is important to see a doctor to determine the cause and receive appropriate treatment. Physical therapy can help with cervicogenic headaches by addressing the underlying causes of the pain in the neck and spine. Physical therapists use a variety of techniques to help relieve pain, improve neck mobility, and prevent future headaches. Some of the ways physical therapy can help with cervicogenic headaches include: Soft tissue mobilization: Physical therapists can use manual techniques such as dry needling, IASTM, stretching, and trigger point release to relieve tension and pain in the neck and shoulder muscles. Strengthening exercises: Physical therapists can design an exercise program to target the muscles in the neck, shoulder, and upper back, helping to improve posture and stability. Postural re-education: Physical therapists can teach you how to maintain good posture and body mechanics to reduce stress on the neck and spine, reducing the risk of future headaches. Cervical spine mobilization/manipulation: Physical therapists can use manual techniques to help improve mobility and range of motion in the cervical spine, reducing the pressure on the joints and nerves that can cause headaches. Pain management: Physical therapists can provide education and guidance on pain management techniques such as home exercise management, activity modifications, and stretching to help alleviate headache symptoms. In conclusion, physical therapy can be an effective way to treat and prevent cervicogenic headaches by addressing the underlying causes of neck pain. Physical therapists work with patients to design a personalized treatment plan, helping them achieve lasting relief and improved quality of life.

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