Since the 1960s, the most common solutions to managing chronic pain have focused on medical consumerism, also known as patient empowerment. This politically charged consumer rights movement, while concerned with the right to be safe, informed, to make choices, and to be heard, also advocates for the right to more pain medication. Over the decades, this practice of self-managed care escalated into ineffective pain management, eventually leading to the 2016 opioid crisis. Since then, doctors have been exploring pain management options with their patients to combat the widespread misuse of drugs for pain management.

As the healthcare system began to reexamine its approach to pain management, healthier options became available. One successful strategy is reducing the level of analgesics to the lowest necessary level and implementing a physical therapy regimen. This combination allows the body’s natural healing to occur unimpeded by the unnecessary use of opioids. Through education, decreasing analgesics and increasing physical therapy gained notoriety.

What Physical Therapists Do

Physical therapists are licensed clinical professionals. They have completed an accredited physical therapist education program, earned a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree, and passed a national licensure examination. They coordinate with other professionals in the health care system, such as physicians, psychologists, and social workers. They are powerful warriors against the war on chronic pain. Their organized arsenal includes three steps. First, they determine the cause and impact of the pain. This includes determining risk factors such as disease history of diabetes and arthritis, cognitive and psychological factors, negative beliefs about one’s condition, and a sedentary lifestyle. Second, they define goals with the patient, and third, they establish an individualized treatment program. The resulting methods are different for each patient. Techniques may include therapeutic exercise, manual therapy, patient education, stress management, sleep management, and pain neuroscience education. The physical therapist develops and administers your plan. It’s personal. They make sure you are progressing and modify your plan as needed.

Chronic pain stemming from low back pain, before and after surgery, hip and knee osteoarthritis, and musculoskeletal conditions has shown significant improvement with management and prevention through restorative therapy, a purposeful examination of not only the symptoms of pain but also the movement patterns contributing to it. This multidisciplinary strategy promotes optimal physical function. It is a powerful tool to combat chronic pain while bypassing the unwanted effects of opioid usage.

Everett Physical Therapist

Physical therapy treatments focused on managing symptoms have had positive effects on fibromyalgia patients. Based on aerobic exercise, muscle strengthening and stretching positively impacted pain intensity, quality of life, stiffness, fatigue, and physical function. In addition, resistance exercises, aquatic exercises, massage, and therapy sessions with electrical currents have demonstrated a reduction in chronic pain associated with fibromyalgia.

Untreated, chronic pain can continue for months or years. Physical therapy provides an effective, non-invasive, non-opioid solution for lifelong pain management. Call our office in Everett to learn more about our physical therapy programs or contact us here.

Chronic pain has always been an apparent reason for poor sleep, but what makes this study unique is showing that a person’s poor sleep may cause low back pain. Specialists may improve a person’s chronic low back pain by treating the causes of poor sleep.

Significance of the Study

Specialists have previously treated chronic low back pain without asking questions or understanding a patient’s sleeping patterns. People have used prescribed and over-the-counter pain relievers to treat their low back pain without knowing that they perhaps just needed a better night’s sleep.

Treatable Reasons for Lack of Sleep

There are many reasons for lack of sleep, like too much stimulation before bedtime. This reason could include a person watching too much television before bed, having too much caffeine and exercising, or playing video games, which are under the person’s complete control to change.

In other cases, a person may be experiencing a great deal of stress, noise disturbances, or a work schedule that is detrimental to their sleep. Depression, other mental health issues, and restless legs syndrome should include a physician’s advice.

If a person has no physical reasons or disorder causing their low back pain, they may be relieved by changing their sleep positions or mattress.

There are cases where some people are genetically predisposed to poor sleep. This group of people need less than six and a half hours of sleep at night but feel well-rested and without pain in the morning.

A person can keep a sleep diary that notes any low back pain they may be experiencing. This notetaking is extremely helpful in a specialist’s challenge to define the best overall treatment.

The diary should also include the day’s activities, naps, bed, and waking times. The analysis can be all-inclusive if the journaling provides food, drinks, moods, and medications. With the diary information, a physician may order a sleep study test.

Treatments for Poor Sleep to Lessen Low Back Pain

The most uncomplicated treatment for poor sleep may be for the patient to create a better sleep environment in their rooms. Darkening curtains, cool temperatures, and a noise-free place to call it a day are always the first place to create change.

The next area for a patient to explore is avoiding napping, stimulating activities before bed, listening to music, or taking a hot bath to provide the extra care needed for a good night’s sleep. These lifestyle choices are healthy even if a person isn’t experiencing low back pain.

A physician may prescribe an appropriate sleep aid or medication for any anxiety disorders or depression the patient’ may be experiencing. These prescriptions may help with any worry, stress, or mental health issues interfering with their sleep.

A sleep diary will be helpful to you and your physician when taking these medications to document if symptoms, sleep, and low back pain is relieved. Patients who work closely with specialists and provide adequate information will achieve more accurate diagnoses, treatment, and the fastest relief from their low back pain.

Low Back Pain: Chiropractic Help in Everett, Wa

If your back pain is chronic, it’s a good idea to visit your local chiropractor. Those in the Snohomish County area can go to Everett Spine and Rehab to examine your condition and find the right treatment for you, which may include spinal manipulation. Please book your appointment by calling us at 425-347-8614.

No matter your age, you should know your risk of falling and how you can prevent it. Snow and ice make winter a treacherous time, but if you’re careful, you can prevent falling and incurring an injury.

Why Do People Fall in Winter?

There are many reasons people fall, both young and old. Just because you’re young doesn’t mean you’re immune to falling accidents over winter. Most people aren’t careful enough and experience accidents that are easily preventable.

Here are some of the most common reasons people fall during winter:

• Not wearing proper shoes
• Tense muscles
• Veering off cleared pathways
• Not keeping pathways/driveways clear
• Rushing
• Not being aware of snow/ice
• Muscle weakness because of inactivity
• Medications that cause issues with balance
• Vision trouble

How to Prevent Falls

You can take steps to prevent falls and injury this winter.

Foremost, slow down and allow for extra time. Many people fall over winter because they try to move too fast. With snow and ice, you can’t move at the same speed as you do during summer.

Make sure you’re wearing the proper gear. Shoes with good traction are essential, especially in icy weather. Warm clothing is just as important as cold weather can make your muscles tense. Tense muscles lessen your balance and make you more likely to fall.

Always be aware of your surroundings and know when there is snow or ice. Even if you can’t see ice, there may be black ice present. When getting out of your car, keep both feet on the ground, and hold on to the side of your car before standing. When walking, keep your eyes on the ground in front of you, especially in dark areas.

Be sure to keep pathways, sidewalks, and driveways clear. Many accidents happen because people don’t take the time to shovel, plow, or salt the areas outside their homes. When in public places, stick to clear pathways and don’t take shortcuts.

For Disabled & Older Adults

For older adults, falls are the primary cause of fatal and non-fatal injury.

Stay active and healthy over winter, especially if you’re older. It’s all too tempting to stay inside and curl up in front of the fireplace over winter. But you still need to exercise and maintain your muscles. Weakened muscles increase falls, especially in older adults. Check out our article on Winter Wellness and Healthy Habits for the Season.

Discuss your medications with your doctor. Some medications affect your balance and may leave you more susceptible to falls. Your doctor may adjust your medications over winter or discuss how to mitigate the risks. They may suggest that you use a walking stick or cane over winter to support your balance.

Have your vision checked. Falls are more likely if you have trouble seeing snow and ice.

Ask for help in keeping your home safe and clear of snow and ice. Many older adults fall by trying to keep their sidewalks clear themselves.

When you walk outside, keep your phone on you, and walk with a partner if possible. If you suffer a fall, it’s important that someone can find you as soon as possible.

Conclusion

The CDC says that millions of people 65 and older fall every year, and winter makes falls more common. Regardless of your age, snow and ice can cause falls, which leads to injuries like broken bones.

To prevent a fall this winter, slow down and be aware of your surroundings. With a little caution, you can stay safe.

Physical Therapy After a Fall Injury in Everett

However, if you do fall, go to your doctor to get treated. They may also refer you to a physical therapist like those at Everett Spine and Rehab. Physical therapy can help with injuries like those sustained from falling and aims to help you get back to normal!

Back pain is one of the most common sources of pain reported to doctors. About 65 million Americans have reported back pain throughout their lives. 16 million of those people, about 8% of the American population, suffer from chronic back pain.

The good news is that you don’t have to live in constant pain. Chiropractic care and massage therapy are natural options to soothe your pain.

What Is The Spine?

The spine and back are complex structures, so there are many ways that you can injure them.

The spine is divided into four sections:

• Cervical spine: the upper part of the spine, making up the neck

• Thoracic spine:  the middle part of the spine, making up your upper back

• Lumbar spine: the lower part of your spine, making up your lower back 

• Sacrum: vertebrae connecting your spine to your pelvis
• Coccyx: the lowest part of your spine, often referred to as the ‘tailbone’

Your back also consists of several structures that help your back function:

• Vertebrae: circular, hollow bones that protect the spinal cord

• Spinal cord: a bundle of nerves that runs through the vertebrae down the length of your back

• Intervertebral discs: pads that sit between the vertebrae to act as a cushion

• Ligaments: tough, but flexible tissue that keeps the vertebrae stable

• Tendons: cords of tissues that connect bone and muscle

• Muscles: bundles of fibers that support your spine and body, allowing you to move

Who Gets Back Pain?

Anyone can experience back pain, but it’s more common among certain populations.

Those who do not exercise experience more back pain. They don’t have the back and abdominal muscles to support the spine. An unhealthy diet and weight gain can contribute to this.

We spend much of our lives at work, so our job can play a role in our back health. Jobs that require heavy lifting, pushing, or pulling can increase the risk of back injury. Those with desk jobs can experience back pain from poor posture.

As we age, the health of our back decreases, especially in those over the age of 45.

Back pain can also be hereditary and is linked to certain disorders and diseases.

What Kind Of Back Pain Do You Have?

There are three main types of back pain: acute, subacute, and chronic.

Acute back pain occurs quickly, often due to an injury. It is not permanent and often goes away after a few days or weeks.

Subacute back pain lasts longer, usually between four to twelve weeks. This type of pain may occur suddenly, or it may emerge over time.

Chronic back pain may also come on suddenly or may emerge over time. But, chronic pain lasts for more than 12 weeks, often affecting a person for the rest of their lifetime.

Common Causes Of Back Pain

In many cases, massage therapy and chiropractic care can help relieve back pain. But, it’s not for everyone. Consult your physician before trying any new therapy. Here are some of the most common causes of back pain:

1. Pulled Muscles Or Tendons

This injury occurs when we move our back in a way we shouldn’t. It can happen by lifting something incorrectly, twisting into an awkward position, or even laying in the wrong position.

2. Inflammation

Inflammation is swelling caused by injury or disease. It’s a normal response that your body uses to protect itself, but it can cause pain.

3. Arthritis

Arthritis is chronic inflammation. It occurs in the joints throughout your body, including the back.

4. Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a disease that leads to weak, brittle bones due to a decrease in bone mass. This most commonly occurs in the wrists and spine. People with this disease are more susceptible to fractures.

5. Herniated Or Ruptured Discs

Intervertebral discs sit between the vertebrae of the spine to act as a cushion. They can become injured and separate from the vertebrate which can be excruciating.

6. Poor Posture & Excess Weight

Your spine has to bear a lot of weight. When you don’t have the correct posture or are overweight, you’re putting a lot of strain and stress on your back. Your muscles have to work harder to keep your back upright which can cause pain.

7. Fibromyalgia

Doctors don’t understand this condition well. But, they know that it can cause pain throughout the body, including the neck.

8. Scoliosis

Scoliosis refers to an abnormal curvature of the spine. It can cause pain and difficulty with movement. It can lead to under or overdeveloped muscles and pain.

9. Pregnancy

Back pain is very common among pregnant women as the extra weight adds pressure to the back and spine.

What Is Chiropractic Care & Can It Help?

Chiropractic care emphasizes the body’s ability to heal itself. Treatment is performed by a licensed health professional. It consists of manual therapy like spinal manipulation.

Chiropractors use their hands to apply a quick, thrusting pressure to specific joints. These manipulations reduce pain and improve function and mobility. 

Chiropractic care is most effective for those with subacute back pain. It can also help with neck pain and flare-ups of chronic pain.

What Is Massage Therapy & Can It Help?

Licensed massage therapists use their hands to manipulate the soft tissues in the body. It can help to manage health conditions by reducing pain and improving mobility.

There are many kinds of massage, ranging from gentle Swedish massage to rougher deep-tissue massage. So, massage therapy can be helpful to nearly anyone with any condition. But, if you have any concerns about your condition, seek advice from your doctor before booking a massage.

Other types of massage include:

• Acupressure (shiatsu)
• Neuromuscular massage therapy
• Myofascial release
• Sports massage

Back Pain? See Everett Spine & Rehab

Nearly everyone will suffer from back pain at some point in their life. The good news is that you can experience relief. Depending on your condition, chiropractic care or massage therapy may be able to help. Consult with your physician before seeking out any new treatment. See us in our Everett office if you have questions about neck or back pain. We’re located at 927 128th St SW Ste B, Everett, WA 98204. 

Some of the more serious injuries in life come from more rigorous activities, like sports. Many athletes, even those weekend warriors, will experience multiple injuries throughout their sports careers. In fact, each and every year 3.5 million children ages 14 and younger are hurt while playing a sport or participating in physical activity. 

That number is shocking, but it doesn’t take into account those athletes at higher levels – high school, collegiate, or even professional sports. And while the number is high, the vast majority of these injuries are less serious – strains or sprains. 

It’s clear that sports injuries are not uncommon, but they can have very serious and long-lasting effects, even after the athlete has retired. While the best way to protect a body is to prevent an injury, there is the possibility of recurrent injuries and the need for helpful treatments.

Common Sports Injuries

Even though sprains and strains are the most common sports injuries that athletes experience no matter the level or type of sporting activity, there are far more common injuries to be aware of. 

The most vulnerable areas for injury are joints and tendons. These areas take a lot of the force when an athlete participates in their chosen sport. And these areas cannot be strengthened through traditional weight lifting or exercise methods. 

Many athletes will experience injuries to their knees, Achilles tendons, and rotator cuffs. Outside of those injuries, athletes often experience swollen muscles and localized pain, usually in the shin bone. In more extreme cases, though still common, athletes can break or dislocate bones.

While proper equipment and preparation are keys to minimizing injuries, there is no way to guarantee an athlete won’t get injured. The focus should really be on how to effectively treat those injuries that do occur. 

Treatments for Sports Injuries

Injuries happen and they have to be treated. How a sports injury is treated depends on the injury itself, as well as the athlete’s overall health and past injuries. Of course, each type of sports injury has a common treatment protocol.

Casting or Splinting

For broken or dislocated bones, athletes can expect extended immobilization in a cast, splint, or the like. This allows the bone and/or joint a safe space and enough time to mend itself. This is used for the smaller breaks and dislocations – wrists, feet, ankles, and collar bones.

Surgery

More serious breaks or dislocations may require different types of surgeries. These surgeries are used to aid in the healing of larger breaks like legs, arms, elbows, and tendons like ACL and MCL.

Localized pain treatment (injections/pain meds)

Many of these sports injuries, even swollen muscles and sprains, are painful. In order to treat the pain aspect of these injuries, many doctors will prescribe pain medications taken either orally or through injections.

Physical Therapy

Many injuries require an athlete to stop training even more for just a few weeks. Any time spent away from the field or training arena can lead to muscle atrophy, especially when a joint or tendon is injured. This usually requires the athlete to spend additional time in physical therapy to ensure the injury is healing and the areas around the injury can hold up when the athlete returns to the field of play.

Massage Therapy

Perhaps a less well-known treatment of sports injuries is massage therapy. Many may consider massage therapy to be a luxury, something to be used if time or finances allow. The truth is, massage therapy can be incredibly beneficial in treating certain sports injuries and helping to prevent future ones from occurring.

Massage therapy focuses on the soft tissues of the body – tendons, ligaments, muscles, and other connective tissues. These areas can be heavily fatigued as well as injured. The strain and impact these areas take can be extensive.

The use of massage therapy has been known to increase range of motion as well as power and overall performance, decrease overall muscle tension, and minimize the chance of reinjury. It’s a vital way to aid in and increase the healing of a current or past injury and protect the body in the future. So it’s important to see massage therapy as a key and vital part of sports injury treatment and prevention.

Everett Spine and Rehab: Massage Therapy and Physical Therapy for Sport-Related Injury

Come to Everett Spine & Rehab in Everett, Wa for your sports injury rehabilitation. Our clients love us–read our customer reviews here!

It is crucial for a casualty victim to be evaluated for physical therapy as soon as possible after a car accident because severe symptoms of body trauma can bring additional pain and mobility issues as time progresses.

Symptoms of possible injury to be aware of are:

• Neck, arm, upper back stiffness
• Numbing in arms, neck, hands, and upper back
• Nausea, headache, and dizziness
• Hip, lower back, and knee pain
• Foot, ankle, toe pain or numbness
• Any ache or pain not previously felt before the accident

Multiple variations of these symptoms can contribute to an automobile accident victim’s pain or mobility problems. A casualty victim receiving the appropriate care can limit future suffering.

It is important for the injured person to receive a one-on-one and head-to-toe analysis with a specialist to evaluate and prepare a custom treatment program. Each individual involved with any accident is unique and requires an exclusive path to healing.

Different Methods of Physical Therapy

Physical therapists or chiropractors may incorporate different methods into a program to treat a car accident injury.

Manual therapy may be used by a therapist to adjust and mobilize joints. This type of therapy will decrease scar tissue, reduce inflammation, and allow the tissue surrounding the joints to heal as quickly as possible.

A therapist often uses specialized equipment to implement heat, cold, and electrotherapy to the affected area. This also reduces inflammation and allows more movement and less pressure to the affected area.

Other physical therapy treatments may include acupuncture, ultrasound, aquatic therapy, and intramuscular stimulation. The purpose of these techniques is to help relieve muscle tightness and spasms to decrease recovery time.

The therapist may discuss and coach custom exercises to allow patient control and daily therapy. Exercising can reduce a patient’s joint pain, build muscle strength, and maintain flexibility of the spine.

A therapist may also develop specialized or customized braces or slings appropriate to support the patient’s affected area. Sometimes the added support relieves the pressure and allows faster healing of the patient’s affected joint.

Automobile accident victims need to be worry-free about lasting symptoms and their future health. Some insurance companies are limited in their coverage of an auto accident injury, so an accurate accounting of needs following an accident is imperative.

Getting at the root cause of a patient’s injury as quickly as possible is where a physical therapist’s expertise will be invaluable. Not only will a patient’s healing process of strengthening or stabilizing the affected area begin, but the therapist will be able to assist in efficiently managing any future pain or dysfunction resulting from the accident.

Please contact Everett Spine & Rehab for your car accident rehabilitation: 425-347-8614.

At Everett Spine & Rehab, we are more than a chiropractic office. We offer physical therapy to Snohomish County residents and we’re currently in the Top Ten for best physical therapy in Everett on Yelp. Our dedicated team of experts are here to help you recover, regain strength and achieve your health goals. We treat those who have: suffered a sports injury; gotten into a car accident; got hurt on-the-job (workplace injury); have acute or chronic pain. Before physical therapy treatment begins, we will conduct a through examination to ensure we get you on the correct path to recovery.

Common injuries that may require physical therapy include:

• Whiplash
• Stroke
• Arthritis
• Low back pain
• Shoulder pain
• Neck pain
• Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis)
• Sciatica
• Joint or muscle pain

It is often thought that physical therapy is something done after you’re in pain or suffered an injury. While that is most often the case, physical therapy can also be used to help prevent injury. If you’re seeking physical therapy to promote your health or as a preventative care, please see us. We take an assessment to see if physical therapy will be a right fit for your healthy regimen.