Category: Physical Therapy

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How Strength Deficits Alter Shoulder Motion and Pain

December 23rd, 2022

In 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

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The Importance of Post-Surgical Physical Therapy

December 20th, 2022

There 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

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Do I Need a Physician’s Referral to go to Physical Therapy?

December 15th, 2022

The 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

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Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid Arthritis: What’s The Difference?

December 13th, 2022

Arthritis 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

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Physical Therapy For Foot Pain (Plantar Fasciitis)

December 8th, 2022

What 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

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What Your Gait Pattern Says About Your Body

December 6th, 2022

You may notice that some people lock their knees, step asymmetrically, or lean either forward, backward or to the side when walking. These gait patterns are common throughout the population and they can give insight into underlying deficits that may make daily activities more difficult. This article will review a few of the more common

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Is Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis) Making You Frustrated?

December 2nd, 2022

What Is It? Lateral elbow pain refers to pain felt on the outer edge of your elbow. This pain is often from an injury known as Lateral Epicondylitis, more commonly known as Tennis Elbow. This injury comes from repetitive use or over use of the common extensor tendon muscles in the forearm. Performing repetitive motions

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Knee Pain? Backwards Walking May Be The Answer

November 29th, 2022

Osteoarthritis is a common degenerative condition occurring in over 19% of the American population over 45 years old (Del Amo, 2022). The condition frequently affects the knee joint in the body resulting in pain, weakness, stiffness, swelling, and reduced range of motion (ROM). How Do You Know If You Have Osteoarthritis? A diagnosis of Osteoarthritis

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How Important Are Low Back MRIs?

November 22nd, 2022

Lumbar degenerative changes are commonly found in spine imaging but often occur in pain-free individuals as well as those with back pain.  Have you been told that you have a disc bulge at L4-L5? Are you scared that you may need surgery after reviewing your imaging results? Have you been told that you have to

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