1. Ice and Elevation After Activity After engaging in physical activity, swelling and irritation of the joint structures of the knee can occur. This can cause sensations of stiffness, worsening of pain and general discomfort. By applying ice to the knees and elevating them above the level of the heart, you can reduce this swelling
Health Blog
Bursitis: Overview and Treatment
January 3rd, 2023Bursitis is a common condition affecting 1 in 10,000 people in the knees and elbows alone. Despite its prevalence, most people are unfamiliar with what this means and how to manage the symptoms stemming from it. This article will discuss the anatomy, causes, and treatment options relevant to the diagnosis of bursitis. What is a
Are You Experiencing Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
December 29th, 2022What Is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome? Carpal Tunnel Syndrome occurs when there is compression of the Median nerve at the wrist. This can occur from several different causes: trauma such as a fracture or sprain resulting in swelling, fluid retention in conditions such as diabetes/pregnancy/hyperactive pituitary gland, or the most common – overuse of musculature in
The Cost of Low Back Pain
December 27th, 2022Background Many people every year experience low back pain regardless of their age. Many times people will either attend physical therapy via direct access or be referred to physical therapy by their physician. Upon the initial evaluation, besides taking measurements, performing special tests, and coming to a conclusion of a diagnosis and treatment plan, the
How Strength Deficits Alter Shoulder Motion and Pain
December 23rd, 2022In order to perform normal, pain-free shoulder motion, it is necessary that there is adequate strength around the joint. While this sounds simple, normal shoulder motion depends on what are called “force couples” – opposing forces that act simultaneously on the shoulder during motion to provide stability. If these force couples are disrupted, abnormal motion
The Importance of Post-Surgical Physical Therapy
December 20th, 2022There are a variety of reasons someone may undergo surgery. It is often indicated with end-stage arthritis, after traumatic injury, with neurologic conditions, or when there are other abnormalities at a joint. While surgery is performed to correct an issue, there are often additional interventions required to facilitate return to activities of daily living and
Do I Need a Physician’s Referral to go to Physical Therapy?
December 15th, 2022The Short Answer No, you do not. In the state of Virginia, you are allowed to attend physical therapy for 60 days before requiring a physician’s referral to extend care past the 60 days. Why is This Relevant? Attending physical therapy prior to obtaining a physician’s referral is known as Direct Access. Direct access allows
Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid Arthritis: What’s The Difference?
December 13th, 2022Arthritis is common among adults but the pathology and treatment can vary depending on the type. This article will discuss osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis and treatment options for both types of arthritis. Osteoarthritis Overview The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimate that over 32.5 million adults suffer from osteoarthritis (OA) in the United States
Physical Therapy For Foot Pain (Plantar Fasciitis)
December 8th, 2022What Is Plantar Fasciitis? Plantar fasciitis is an inflammation of the plantar fascia that is located on the bottom of the foot caused by overuse or overstretching. The plantar fascia of the foot plays a major role in arch support of the foot as well as shock absorption. Inflammation of this fascial layer can cause