There are lots of questions to answer when it comes to physical therapy, so let’s start with the obvious. What is physical therapy? Physical therapy is intentional, rehabilitative movement of the body that helps with mobility, pain reduction, restorative functions, and prevention of injuries. A physical therapist will create a plan to work with each patient to help with their particular issue. It may take a few weeks of physical therapy to correct or manage a problem or it may take several months, depending on the injury. Physical therapy treats both acute (sudden pain usually from an injury) and chronic pain (pain that lasts longer than three months). Therapists’ can use techniques such as massage, manual therapy, or acupuncture in addition to specific exercises.

PT: It’s Not Just for Sports

Physical therapy helps with many problems, such as back pain, neck pain, sports related injuries, carpal tunnel syndrome, hip pain, strokes, spinal cord injuries, and brain injuries, among many others. In addition to acute pain, physical therapy can help with long term conditions like cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, cystic fibrosis, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

It isn’t just below the neck that physical therapists’ treat. They can also help with TMJ disorder. Temporomandibular joint disorder is pain in the muscle that connects the jawbone to the skull. People with TMJ disorder can experience intense facial pain and headaches, reduction of movement in the jaw, and pain around the ear(s). What physical therapy can do is drastically reduce pain in the area with exercises to strengthen and stretch the jaw muscles. Other treatments could include hot and cold ice on the area in pain.

Arthritic pain is an excellent reason to see a physical therapist. Not only can they help manage pain from arthritis, they can help slow down the process entirely. By evaluating your posture, body mechanics, and muscle imbalances, a physical therapist can help reduce pain, fatigue, and even improve overall balance in the body.

In addition to adults, children also benefit from physical therapy. Some common diagnoses that pediatric physical therapy addresses is toe walking, down syndrome, developmental delays, hypotonia (muscle weakness), autism, or sports and play related injuries.

One of the bigger questions that may loom if you are in pain is, when should you seek help from a physical therapist? The answer is simple: Look for a physical therapist if you have pain that is hindering your everyday life and is limiting your physical mobility. Your doctor may refer you to one, or you can seek one out yourself. Either way, you don’t need to stay in pain day after day. It is so important to see a physical therapist so you can treat the pain you have now and help prevent it in the future.

Chiropractic care proves beneficial across a spectrum of sports injuries. Athletes seeking chiropractic care participate in a wide range of sports, including but not limited to football, basketball, soccer, tennis, running, gymnastics, and various high-impact or repetitive-motion activities where musculoskeletal strain and injury risk are prevalent.

Chiro Care for Injury Prevention

As a means of prevention, chiropractors often focus on addressing musculoskeletal imbalances and optimizing joint function to reduce the likelihood of injuries such as strains, sprains, and overuse injuries.

Musculoskeletal Alignment: Chiropractors focus on optimizing the alignment of the spine and other joints. Proper alignment reduces stress on muscles, ligaments, and tendons, decreasing the risk of strains and sprains during physical activities.

Improved Range of Motion: Chiropractic adjustments enhance joint flexibility and range of motion. Athletes with improved mobility are less prone to injuries related to restricted movement and are better equipped to perform dynamic movements required in sports.

Balanced Muscle Function: Chiropractors identify and address imbalances in muscle function. By ensuring that muscles are working harmoniously, the risk of overuse injuries or compensatory strains is minimized, contributing to overall musculoskeletal health.

Neuromuscular Function: Chiropractic care positively influences the communication between the nervous system and muscles. This optimization of neuromuscular function improves coordination, reflexes, and reaction times, essential elements in preventing injuries during sports activities.

Preventing Overuse Injuries: Athletes engaged in repetitive motions or high-impact activities are susceptible to overuse injuries. Chiropractors can help identify areas of the body prone to overuse and provide preventive care to reduce the likelihood of chronic injuries over time.

Education and Exercise: Chiropractors often educate athletes on proper body mechanics, posture, and ergonomics tailored to their specific sports. They may also recommend exercises to strengthen core muscles and stabilize joints, further reducing injury risk.

Regular chiropractic adjustments can enhance flexibility, improve biomechanics, and maintain proper spinal alignment, thereby minimizing the risk of injuries commonly associated with sports participation.

Post Sports Injury

Post-injury, chiropractic care becomes instrumental in the recovery process. Athletes grappling with conditions like muscle strains, ligament sprains, or joint misalignments can benefit from targeted adjustments that facilitate healing and restore optimal function. The integration of physical therapy into chiropractic treatment plans adds a comprehensive dimension, incorporating exercises and stretches to strengthen weakened areas, improve range of motion, and expedite the rehabilitation process. This collaborative approach aims to address not only the symptoms but also the underlying issues contributing to the injury.

Massage Therapy

Furthermore, the inclusion of massage therapy complements chiropractic care by addressing soft tissue injuries and promoting relaxation. Massage benefits include alleviation of muscle tension, reducing inflammation, and enhancing blood circulation, contributing to the overall effectiveness of the treatment regimen.

The synergy between chiropractic adjustments, physical therapy exercises, and massage therapy creates a holistic approach to sports injury management, fostering a quicker and more sustainable recovery for athletes.

Everett Spine & Rehab: Sports, Work and Auto Injury Rehabilitation

At our sports injury rehabilitation clinic in Everett, we pride ourselves on providing comprehensive care that integrates chiropractic, physical therapy, and massage therapy to address the unique needs of athletes. Our dedicated team understands the demands of various sports and is committed to optimizing your physical well-being. Whether you’re recovering from an injury or seeking preventive measures, our approach aims to enhance your performance, promote long-term musculoskeletal health, and support your journey to peak athletic condition.

Sources:

espinozachiropractic.com
Americansportsandfitness.com
Mayoclinichealthsystem.org
Openai.com

Bursitis is the inflammation of a bursa, a small fluid-filled sac that cushions and lubricates the areas between tendons, muscles, and bones. It commonly affects the joints, causing pain, swelling, and limited mobility.

Bursitis Causes

Bursitis is typically caused by repetitive movements or positions that put excessive pressure or friction on the bursa, leading to irritation and inflammation. Some common causes of bursitis include:

Repetitive motions: Activities that involve repetitive motions or positions can contribute to bursitis. Examples include throwing a baseball, gardening, painting, or kneeling for extended periods.

Joint overuse: Overusing a joint or placing excessive stress on it can lead to bursitis. This can occur from activities such as running, jumping, or participating in high-impact sports.

Injury or trauma: Direct injury or trauma to a joint can cause bursitis. This can happen due to a fall, impact, or prolonged pressure on the affected area.

Treating Bursitis

The treatment of bursitis typically involves a combination of self-care measures and medical interventions. Here are some common approaches to treating bursitis:

Rest and immobilization: Resting the affected joint and avoiding activities that exacerbate symptoms can help relieve pain and reduce inflammation. Immobilization may involve the use of slings, braces, or splints.

Ice and heat therapy: Applying cold compresses to the affected area can help reduce swelling and pain. Heat therapy, such as warm compresses, can also provide relief and promote blood flow to the area.

Pain management: Over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help reduce pain and inflammation. In some cases, a healthcare professional may prescribe stronger pain medications.

Physical therapy: Physical therapy may be recommended to strengthen the muscles around the affected joint, improve range of motion, and promote healing. Therapeutic exercises and techniques can help reduce symptoms and prevent recurrence. Those in the Seattle area or in Snohomish County can come to Everett Spine & Rehab for physical therapy as well as chiropractic care.

Injections: In severe cases of bursitis, a healthcare professional may recommend corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation and provide pain relief. These injections are administered directly into the bursa.

Aspiration: In certain situations, excess fluid may be removed from the bursa through a procedure called aspiration. This can help alleviate pain and reduce swelling.

Preventing Bursitis

Preventing bursitis involves taking certain precautions and adopting healthy habits to reduce the risk of developing the condition. Here are some strategies that can help prevent bursitis:

Avoid repetitive motions: Minimize repetitive movements or positions that put excessive stress on the joints. If your work or activities involve repetitive actions, try to take regular breaks or modify your technique to reduce the strain on the affected areas.

Use proper body mechanics: Practice good posture and body mechanics during activities, whether it’s at work, exercise, or daily tasks. Maintain proper alignment, use ergonomic equipment, and avoid overloading your joints.

Warm up and stretch: Before engaging in physical activities or exercises, warm up your muscles with light aerobic activities and perform dynamic stretching. This helps prepare your body for the demands of the activity and reduces the risk of injury.

Gradual progression: When starting a new exercise program or increasing the intensity or duration of your workouts, do so gradually. This allows your body to adapt and prevents overuse injuries, including bursitis.

Use protective equipment: If you participate in sports or activities that carry a risk of joint injury, use appropriate protective equipment, such as knee pads, elbow guards, or wrist braces. This can help cushion and support the joints, reducing the risk of bursitis.

Maintain a healthy weight: Excess weight places additional stress on the joints, increasing the risk of bursitis. Maintain a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise to reduce the strain on your joints.

Cross-train and vary activities: Engaging in a variety of activities and cross-training can help distribute the workload among different muscle groups and joints. This reduces the repetitive stress on specific areas and decreases the likelihood of developing bursitis.

Listen to your body: Pay attention to any discomfort or pain in your joints. If you experience persistent or worsening symptoms, take a break from the activity and consult with a healthcare professional. Ignoring warning signs can lead to further injury and the development of bursitis.

By incorporating these preventive measures into your daily routine, you can reduce the risk of bursitis and maintain the health and function of your joints. If you have specific concerns or a history of bursitis, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional or physical therapist for personalized advice.

Sources

Openai.com

https://www.webmd.com/Pain-management/arthritis-bursitis

Causes of Sciatica:

Sciatica is usually caused by a herniated or slipped disc in the spine, which puts pressure on the sciatic nerve. Other causes of sciatica include spinal stenosis, which is a narrowing of the spinal canal, spondylolisthesis, which is a condition where one vertebra slips forward over another, and degenerative disc disease, which is the gradual deterioration of the discs in the spine. Additionally, pregnancy can also lead to sciatica due to the pressure on the sciatic nerve from the growing uterus.

A physical exam by your healthcare provider can help you determine if you have sciatica.

Treatment of Sciatica:

Treatment for sciatica depends on the underlying cause and the severity of the symptoms. Most cases of sciatica can be treated with non-surgical methods such as:

1. Rest and Activity Modification: Resting the affected area and avoiding activities that exacerbate the pain can help alleviate symptoms.
2. Exercise and Physical Therapy: Strengthening exercises and stretches can help improve flexibility and reduce pressure on the sciatic nerve.
3. Medications: Over-the-counter pain medications such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen can help relieve pain and reduce inflammation. In severe cases, prescription medications such as muscle relaxants or opioids may be needed.
4. Hot or Cold Compresses: Applying heat or cold to the affected area can help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain.
5. Injections: Steroid injections into the affected area can help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain.

In rare cases where non-surgical methods are not effective, surgery may be required to relieve pressure on the sciatic nerve.

Physical Therapy in Everett, Snohomish County

Having a sciatica diagnoses doesn’t have to be scary or painful. At Everett Spine and Rehab, we will develop a treatment plan specifically for your condition which may include physical therapy or chiropractic care. If you think you might have sciatica, please schedule an appointment with us: 425-347-8614.

Sources:

1. Chat GPT https://openai.com/
2. Mayo Clinic. (2022). Sciatica. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/sciatica/symptoms-causes/syc-20377435
3. American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. (2021). Sciatica. https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases–conditions/sciatica/

Sadly, most of us give it our all for January, but we have submitted to defeat by February. The year 2023 can be different if at the top of your list is: an appointment with a chiropractor.

What is the Function of a Chiropractor?

A chiropractor provides complementary medicine with the philosophy that your body can heal by keeping your spine and joints in alignment. Chiropractic treatment focuses on the spine and provides a holistic approach to keeping your body in top shape so you can go out and enjoy your life.

Thirty-one pairs of spinal nerves are your nervous system’s roots that send information to your entire body, and every bodily function relies on the health of your spine. Chiropractic work is a serious business.

How does a Chiropractor Provide Care?

Chiropractic care uses hands-on manipulation to relieve symptoms or pain in your body.

• A Chiropractor can reduce neck pain with cervical spine manipulation.
• A Chiropractor can reduce lower back pain with spinal manipulation.
• A Chiropractor can ease chronic headache symptoms with cervical and thoracic spine manipulation.
• A Chiropractor can improve posture to help correct the results of sitting too much.
• A Chiropractor can reduce symptoms of osteoarthritis by aligning joints and reducing bone-to-bone contact.

So How Can a Chiropractor Help Me with My 2023 Resolutions?

Routine visits to a chiropractor are just a valuable part of a healthy lifestyle. It is the one step most people don’t consider when making their resolution “To Do” list.

If a person is in pain, it prevents them from doing what they want. It’s a domino effect the body reacts to that can make the enthusiasm of a person’s resolution fade away. The reason is that it just plain hurts too bad.

Visualize how 2023 can be different than any other year. The first step is to visit the chiropractor’s office.

The chiropractor listens to what your intentions are, examines your body, makes some adjustments, and you leave the office feeling 2 inches taller and without pain.

With your body’s circulation and nervous system functioning, you’re feeling good and inspired to eat right and go to the gym. Chiropractic spinal adjustment has also tapered down stress and anxiety.  The freedom of exercising helps your body relax and fall into a deep and restful sleep at night.

After a week, you may have overdone, and your body may be out of alignment again.  After a routine visit to your chiropractor, you can start the week out with enthusiasm again because your pain has subsided, and you’ve received some workout tips from your chiropractor.

If you continue on this path with the weekly support of your chiropractor, you could be looking at substantial weight loss and feeling strong within a short period. You might be so successful that you can book a flight to a beach and model the new swimsuit you purchased.

There is one more loose end to your 2023 resolutions, and that may be to quit smoking. Your chiropractor may be able to help you stop that habit too.

Some chiropractors are very enthusiastic about participating in training for intervention protocol to help their patients quit smoking. The study for tobacco treatment in a chiropractic setting was very successful.

Everett Spine & Rehab: Chiropractic Care

Could 2023 be your year to follow through and achieve your resolutions? That’s up to you, but making that appointment with your chiropractor could be the first step toward your success. If you’re in the Snohomish County area, we are happy to see you at Everett Spine & Rehab. Not only do we help you with your spine and back needs (low back pain, sciatica, adjustments, etc.) but we also offer physical therapy and massage therapy.

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!

A general doctor can diagnose a tear or a break and a surgeon can mend those breaks and tears. But there are a lot of issues between those extremes. Joint and ligament pain or discomfort is a real issue for many, and a chiropractor might just be the best bet for treatment and long-term maintenance.

What does a chiropractor do?

Chiropractic care can be a little unclear, especially for those who haven’t been through treatment before. Chiropractors have both a limited and wide-reaching scope of their specialty.

Chiropractors focus on a patient’s neuromusculoskeletal health – including bones, nerves, muscles, tendons, and ligaments. Back and neck pain is some of the most common complaints brought to chiropractors. This kind of pain often comes from the misalignment of bones and/or tendons and ligaments. Realigning these elements through spinal adjustment can improve the overall function of a body and improve the body’s ability to self-heal.

Additionally, treatment through a chiropractor can also include elements of nutrition and fitness. The kind of treatment and length of treatment depends greatly on the patient. The scope of treatment often includes a health and functional review, an examination, a treatment plan, and monitoring progress.

How do chiropractors help?

The biggest reason people see, and continue seeing, a chiropractor is for pain management. An adjustment from the chiropractor can do much more than lessening that low back pain. Chiropractors are pros when it comes to treating and limiting pain without traditional medications

The truth is, however, that chiropractic treatment has other a chiropractor. The power of a good chiropractor can impact many parts of your life for years to come.

Top Benefits for Seeing a Chiropractor

Chiropractors may treat many root causes of chronic and episodic pain. Based on a number of different studies, chiropractors are one of the leaders in treating both back and neck pain. In fact, people who consistently see a chiropractor report less pain after just six weeks in research published in 2018.

Chronic pain in other parts of the body is just as responsive to chiropractic treatment. Chronic pain is often caused by elements of inflammation and tense muscles. Chiropractors may be able to target these issues to help reduce pain.

Many high-performance athletes use and swear by chiropractors. Regular adjustments can mean better alignment and a higher level of performance. Not everyone is a world-class athlete, but we can all stand to move a little better. Treatment with a chiropractor may also help increase energy levels.

Chiropractors are known for their ability to relieve pain and improve quality of life. People flock to the closest office when back or neck pain rears its head. Even if you aren’t feeling those tell-tell signs of pain or discomfort, it can still be time to visit the local chiropractor.

An Everett Chiropractor Near You

Those who are living in Snohomish County and surrounding areas can feel at ease knowing skilled professionals are available to assist you with pain management, whether that is through chiropractic care or physical therapy at Everett Spine and Rehab. Please call us to schedule your appointment: (425)347-8614.

There are many things that can contribute to shoulder pain. The pain could be temporary, or it might be there to stay. It’s important to know when you should seek help, and what treatments are available to you.

What Causes Shoulder Pain?

There are many reasons why you may develop shoulder pain. Still, some conditions are more common than others.

Here are the four most common causes of shoulder pain:

• Arthritis
• Fracture
• Instability
• Tendon Inflammation or tear

Arthritis is inflammation of the joints which may cause swelling, stiffness, and pain. Osteoarthritis is most common in the shoulders and occurs because of overuse. It usually appears during middle age, and it is slow to develop, gradually worsening over time.

A fracture is a broken bone. A broken shoulder is usually the result of a high-energy injury such as a vehicular accident or a sports injury. Shoulder fractures are also very common in the older population who is prone to falling.

Instability is another name for a dislocated shoulder. A dislocation occurs when the bone of the upper arm is forced out of the socket of the shoulder. Usually, this occurs because of an injury, but it may occur from overuse as well.

Tendon inflammation usually occurs because of repeated activity. It may also be the result of a degenerative condition like arthritis. Bursitis is inflammation of the bursa sacs. These are fluid-filled sacs that surround the joint. Tendinitis is usually a result of inflammation in the tendon.

Here are some other things that may be causing you shoulder pain:

• Bone Spurs: calcium deposits located around joints that can cause pain and mobility issues
• Impingement Syndrome: the rotator cuff becomes caught between the acromium and the humeral head
• Acromium: the part of the scapula that covers the ball
• Humeral Head: the ball-shaped area of the humerus
• Injury: this may be the result of anything from a sports injury to a car accident
• Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis): shoulder joint tissues become thicker, limiting your range of motion
• Heart Attack: blood flow to the heart becomes blocked or cut off
• Pinched Nerve: a compressed nerve caused when the bones, muscles, cartilage, or tendons apply too much pressure to the nerve
• Rotator Cuff Tendinitis: swollen tendons
• Spinal Cord Injury
• Torn Cartilage
• Torn Rotator Cuff: the rotator cuff consists of four tendons and muscles that stabilize the upper arm

How Do Doctors Diagnose Shoulder Pain?

There are so many different reasons why your shoulder may be causing you pain. So, it can make your doctor’s job a bit difficult.

First, they’ll start by examining your medical history. Then, they will complete a physical examination. They will test your shoulder and the surrounding areas to see if there is any swelling, or if you’re in any pain. They will also look to see if the pain has limited your range of motion.

Your doctor may also run some tests. The most common tests they will perform include X-rays or MRIs.

Treatments For Shoulder Pain

There are several treatments for shoulder pain. Treatment depends on what is causing your discomfort.

Changes In Activity

If your shoulder pain is a result of injury or overuse, your doctor may recommend altering your activities. You’ll want to prevent overexertion and not force your body to do the things it normally does to cause pain.

Massage Therapy

Researchers have found that utilizing massage therapy is effective for reducing pain short term. If you take advantage of massage therapy over a longer period of time, it may reduce your shoulder pain in the long term.

Medications

Medications are a common treatment for pain and inflammation. In more extreme cases, your doctor may provide numbing injections to relieve pain. They may also prescribe more powerful steroid medications.

Physical Therapy

The goal of physical therapy is to reduce your pain, increase your strength and mobility, and improve your quality of life. Your doctor should assess your shoulder injury to determine if physical therapy will be suitable for you.

Physical therapy exercises may include stretching, joint stabilization and mobilization, and muscle strengthening. They may also apply ice, heat, or electrical stimulation devices to relieve pain as well.

A study evaluated 66 individuals suffering from shoulder pain. Half of these individuals received physical therapy for a month, while the other half did not. The individuals who received therapy had noticeable improvements in their pain levels and mobility. Those who did not receive therapy continued to decline.

Surgery

Surgery is usually the last resort after all other treatments have failed. Yet, some conditions cannot be treated with physical therapy, rest, or medication.

Recurring dislocations and some rotator cuff tears may only be fixed with surgery. Shoulder surgeries may include reconstruction, removal of scar tissue, repair of torn tissues, or even full shoulder replacement.

Everett Physical Therapy, Massage Therapy for Shoulder Pain

Shoulder pain is common, especially in older populations. The most common causes of shoulder pain include arthritis, fractures, instability, and tendon inflammation.

Whatever is causing your shoulder pain, know that you don’t have to live with the pain forever. Speak with your doctor to talk about your treatment options. For those who are in Snohomish county or Everett, Washington, we are here for you! Reach out to us to schedule a physical therapy or massage therapy appointment.

Psoas syndrome is a condition characterized by the irritation or inflammation of the psoas muscle, a deep muscle located in the lower back and connecting to the hips. It can lead to lower back pain, hip discomfort, and limited mobility. This syndrome often results from prolonged sitting, poor posture, or overuse of the muscle, and is typically managed through rest, stretching, and physical therapy.

Psoas Syndrome Symptoms

Psoas syndrome symptoms can include:

• Chronic lower back pain
• Pain when sitting or getting up
• Restricted hip socket
• Lower back tension
• Difficulty standing in an upright position
• Pelvic pain

You might feel muscle tightness that can make moving difficult and painful. Aside from the pain, a tight psoas can result in poor posture, scoliosis, restricted breathing, lower spine stress fracture, and difficulty standing upright. Muscle “tightness” may feel like you have trouble moving normally or you might feel pain as well. Certain factors can result in tight psoas, including sitting and being sedentary for long periods. If you have to sit while working for hours you should get up from time to time so you can stretch and move around.

How is Psoas Syndrome Treated With Physical Therapy?

Your physical therapist will be able to assign exercises like stretching and lower-impact dynamic exercises. In the meantime, you should try not to sit for lengthy periods of time and always have back support; it’s recommended that you move around at least once an hour. If you are a runner or power walker, you should alternate workouts so you don’t strain your muscle. The main takeaway is to destress and relax by getting a massage, enjoying a hot soak, and support your back when needed.

Physical therapy exercises are designed to strengthen and stretch the psoas muscle and allow your body to heal. It’s important that you get the help of a professional who can guide you through these exercises, otherwise, you may hurt yourself and increase your injury. Your physical therapist may include ultrasound, manipulative treatment, and possibly even muscle injections.

Get the Pain Relief You Need in Everett, Wa

People with psoas syndrome can benefit from gentle exercises and stretching to provide pain relief, strengthen their hip muscles, and increase mobility. Your physical therapist can give you several exercises to incorporate into your daily routine. If you think you have psoas issues, contact a physical therapist to get some muscle relief techniques. For those in Everett, please reach out to us today: 425-347-8614.

Sources:

openai.com

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.