Brooklyn Physical Therapy News- Evolve NY
Evolve Physical Therapy Announces Parkinson's Disease Community Outreach Event in Brooklyn, NY.
Professional Physical Therapy Clinic in Brooklyn, Evolve Physical Therapy & Sports Rehabilitation, Set to Host Community Awareness Rock Steady Boxing Event for People Living with Parkinson's Disease, June 4th, 2019.
Professional Physical Therapy Clinic in Brooklyn, Evolve Physical Therapy & Sports Rehabilitation, Set to Host Community Awareness Rock Steady Boxing Event for People Living with Parkinson's Disease, June 4th, 2019.
With over one million people projected to be living with Parkinson's disease (PD) in the U.S. By 2020, along with approximately 60,000 Americans getting diagnosed with Parkinson's disease each year, raising general awareness for this debilitating condition has and is currently sparking an uptick in the generation of a myriad of innovative ideas, treatments, and influencing funding into new and existing Parkinson's disease research programs.
One of these creative Parkinson's Disease treatment programs, Rock Steady Boxing, was founded to directly combat the many progressive physically degrading symptoms associated with this terrible condition. Rock Steady Boxing focuses first and foremost on improving an individual's overall quality of living. The program introduces people living with Parkinson's disease to fun, upbeat, and creative exercise and fitness regimens that incorporates professionally boxing training methodologies. The Rock Steady Boxing program offers people living with Parkinson's disease the opportunity to train and improve motor skills with other people living with PD, adding even further to the camaraderie and positive atmosphere of the entire program.
NBC Nightly News Story- https://www.nbcnews.com/nightly-news/video/boxing-class-helps-those-with-parkinson-s-fight-back-against-the-disease-1349156931984
The owner of Evolve Physical Therapy and Sports Rehabilitation, Louis Ezrick, researched into the Rock Steady Boxing program, took into account the many patients that were looking for “out of the box” PD treatment options, and immediately incorporated this innovative Parkinson's disease treatment program at all three of his physical therapy clinics throughout Brooklyn, NY. Evolve Physical Therapy has since contributed to raising awareness to this special program through local and national major media outlets, community driven events, and was also featured on NBC Nightly News.
Evolve Physical Therapy's last community event was a family appreciation day hosted by NYU doctors at the Sparks for Life Center in Brooklyn, and attracted around 100 interested individuals.
The latest Rock Steady Boxing Parkinson's disease community awareness event hosted by Evolve Physical Therapy is set for June 4th, 2019. It will start at 1 p.m at the Sephardic Community Center, located at 1901 Ocean Parkway, Brooklyn, NY 11223. “Introduction to Rock Steady Boxing for Men & Women with Parkinson’s Disease. All ages and levels of ability are welcome to attend. This event will be led by Lou Ezrick, Dr. of Physical Therapy, and Certified Personal trainers.
“This is a safe and effective exercise program adapted to people of any level of Parkinson’s. It involves exercises for overall fitness such as stretching, strength training, core work, reaction time, balance, and non contact boxing”, stated Lou Ezrick of Evolve Physical Therapy in Brooklyn, NY. The Rock Steady Boxing program can reduce progression of associated symptoms, allow people to live a healthier life, make them feel stronger and more empowered over their life, while doing so in an extremely positive atmosphere.
This is a free community outreach event to inform, share, and support those who are living with Parkinson's disease and are looking for new symptomatic treatment options.
For more information and to RSVP,
Contact Linda Eber at 718-954-3154. Linda[at]scclive.org.
About Rock Steady Boxing-
Rock Steady Boxing (RSB) was founded in 2006, by a young onset patient who wanted to challenge his diagnosis of PD. RSB was derived from the founder's personal regimen designed by a professional boxing trainer. Today, there are over 450 RSB programs worldwide.
https://www.rocksteadyboxing.org
About Evolve Physical Therapy in Brooklyn, NY-
There’s physical therapy, there’s training, and then there’s EVOLVE. We use the science of bio-mechanics merged with fitness to help our patients get better and stay better!
First we evaluate, then we heal, then we strengthen our clients so they can reach their goals, feel better, and live happier lives. We do so by utilizing a range of core techniques and specialized treatments to reduce pain, improve mobility, enhance physical strength and deal with the underlying issues, not just the pain itself.
Multiple Locations!
1-718-258-3300
Schroth Method Physical Therapy Service for Scoliosis
Schroth Method Physical Therapy Service for Scoliosis in Brooklyn, NY by Evolve Physical Therapy. Do you suffer from daily pain and irritation related to scoliosis? There have been many advances in scoliosis treatment over the years including the Schroth Method. The Schroth Method is a physical therapy technique that can help you to stop the progression of your scoliosis and has even been proven to reduce pain.
The Schroth Method and Treating Scoliosis
Do you suffer from daily pain and irritation related to scoliosis? There have been many advances in scoliosis treatment over the years including the Schroth Method. The Schroth Method is a physical therapy technique that can help you to stop the progression of your scoliosis and has even been proven to reduce pain.
At Evolve New York, our team of professional therapists can help you to find relief from your scoliosis today.
What is scoliosis?
Scoliosis often appears as a curve in the form of “c” or an “s” shape in your spine. Depending on the severity of your case, there are a few different treatment options.
Physical Therapy Services (like the Schroth method): Physical therapy is the primary way to regain strength and mobility that may be lost due to scoliosis.
Bracing: Your doctor may recommend bracing to prevent your spine from curving further.
Surgery: If you are not able to find any relief from your scoliosis then surgery may be an option that is recommended by your doctor.
Symptoms of Scoliosis
Below are a few signs and symptoms of scoliosis:
Uneven Shoulder Height
Uneven Hip and Waist
Pain in or Around Your Spine
How can physical therapy help my scoliosis?
Physical therapy can help to restore your range of motion as well as your mobility. Below are a few types of exercises that can help:
The Schroth Method: The Schroth Method is a series of stretches and exercises that target your scoliosis specifically and can help to reduce the curvature of your spine.
Range of Motion Exercises: This type of exercise can help to improve any limitations that you may have due to pain associated with scoliosis.
Strength Training: Due to the change in position of your spine you may experience weakness in your hips and shoulders. By utilizing strength training exercises, you can build any areas of weakness back up.
Manual Therapy: Manual therapy is a hands-on approach that targets your ligaments and muscle tissue.
Functional Training: By using functional training you can learn how to retrain your body to complete activities.
What is the primary goal of the Schroth Method?
The main goal of the Schroth method is to de-rotate, elongate, and stabilize your spine. There are three main focuses of using this method including: Restoring muscular symmetry, breathing exercises, and posture awareness.
Muscular Symmetry: Depending on how severe your scoliosis is you will need exercises to restore the function in the weak side of your body.
Rotational Angular Breathing: One of the most important steps of the Schroth method is breathing exercises. Angular breathing is used to assist with reshaping your ribcage as well as the surrounding tissues.
Posture Awareness: By focusing on your posture awareness you can learn what positions could make your scoliosis worse.
How can the Schroth Method Help Your Scoliosis?
It can Improve Your Posture
Improvement in Core Stability and Strength
Reduced Pain
Breathing can Become Easier
Improved Mobility
Should I utilize the Schroth Method during my physical therapy sessions?
If you have scoliosis and are looking for a method that has shown great results, the Schroth method might be for you. This type of physical therapy can help you to prevent your scoliosis from advancing and it can help reduce the curvature of your spine.
For more information on Evolve Physical Therapy’s Schroth Treatment for Scoliosis, please visit- https://evolveny.com/physical-therapy/schroth-scoliosis-physical-therapy-brooklyn
Feel free to reach out to us today to schedule a consultation. Our team looks forward to working with you.
Call- 1-718-258-3300
Pediatric and Adolescent Physical Therapy
Physical Therapy for Kids and Teenagers in Brooklyn
Here at Evolve, we work with patients of all ages including children and young adults. Our skilled team of physical therapists want to help your children reach their goals, and our individualized treatment plans allow for rapid healing and proper growth development.
Physical Therapy for Kids and Teenagers in Brooklyn
What Is Pediatric Physical Therapy?
Pediatric physical therapy can best be described as specialized programs created specifically for kids and teenagers of which are suffering from a wide range of developmental issues, recovering from an injury, or living with a disorder or disability.
Physical therapy for children and teenagers is different as sometimes children and young adults may not understand why they are in physical therapy, along with the obvious point that their bodies are still developing and growing. For children, it is important that pediatric development treatment plans are effective as well as fun to keep them engaged and motivated.
Pediatric and Adolescent Physical Therapy: The First Step
For any patient, children included, our first step is to evaluate to best formulate your child’s custom care plan. We will focus on muscle strength, joint mobility, and other areas in order to help your children improve any limited mobilities that they may have.
What can be treated with pediatric and adolescent physical therapy?
There are many areas in which pediatric and adolescent patients may need physical therapy. Some of the following would include: accident or injury, developmental delays, genetic disorders, orthopedic disabilities, limb deficiencies, and any muscle coordination concerns.
How can physical therapy help my child?
Physical therapy treatment can help your children in many ways. Take a look below for a few examples.
It can help them to increase their endurance
Assists in building muscle strength
Can allow them to improve their range of motion
Promotes a decrease in muscle spasms and pain
Can lessen any joint inflammations
Promotes healing of lesions that may have formed
It can improve walking and increase their general mobility
Increase their overall ability for daily activities
And more!
Childhood Health Conditions that may Require Physical Therapy as a Form of Treatment
There are numerous injuries and conditions in which a physical therapist can help your child regain mobility as to continue to grow and thrive in their daily lives, regardless of injury or illness. At Evolve, we promote personalized pediatric development and adolescent growth for all of our patients. We’ve highlighted just a few of the conditions that our skilled team of physical therapists in Brooklyn can assist with.
Cancer
Developmental Delays
Cystic Fibrosis
Schedule a Pediatric Physical Therapy Consultation Today! Walk Ins Welcome.
Does your pediatric or adolescent child need physical therapy for a chronic condition or injury?
At Evolve, we believe our patients are like family. We want to see your children continue to overcome obstacles associated with health conditions, and be relieved from any chronic pain they may be experiencing.
Physical Therapy Services for Children at Evolve
If your child is suffering from an illness or injury they may need to take part in physical therapy sessions to fully find healing from their pain. At Evolve, we value a holistic approach that focuses not only on the problem itself, but any contributing factors as well.
Contact us today to schedule your first consultation free of charge. We look forward to meeting and working with your family. Let us help you and your child reach all their developmental goals!
Schedule a Pediatric Physical Therapy Consultation Today! Walk Ins Welcome.
Click the link below to find out more about Evolve’s specialized physical therapy treatment programs for kids and teenager-
https://www.evolveny.com/physical-therapy/pediatric-physical-therapy-brooklyn
About Evolve Physical Therapy in Brooklyn, NY-
Brooklyn's Premier Holistic Physical Therapy Clinics
There’s physical therapy, there’s training, and then there’s EVOLVE. We use the science of biomechanics merged with fitness to help our patients get better and stay better! First we evaluate, then we heal, then we strengthen our clients so they can reach their goals, feel better, and live happier lives. We do so by utilizing a range of core techniques and specialized treatments to reduce pain, improve mobility, enhance physical strength and deal with the underlying issues, not just the pain itself.
Multiple Locations!
Running Therapy and Gait Retraining
Physical Therapy for Runners
At Evolve, we utilize running therapy and gait retraining to help you recover from injuries and to improve athletic performance. Our programs are geared towards helping you improve in the following areas: Standing, walking, and running.
Physical Therapy for Runners
At Evolve, we utilize running therapy and gait retraining to help you recover from injuries and to improve athletic performance. Our programs are geared towards helping you improve in the following areas: Standing, walking, and running.
Over the years running and gait technologies have greatly advanced. This allows for our skilled physical therapists to better target your injury, and help you during each step of your recovery process. Whether you’re an experienced athlete looking to improve your running form, or you have an injury, we’ve got you covered.
The Running & Gait Evaluation Process
The first part of running therapy and gait training is to have your physical therapist perform an initial evaluation. This allows them to create a customized physical therapy treatment plan to help you achieve all your goals. There are different evaluations used depending on if you are having physical therapy to treat an injury, or improve athletic performance and running form. Let’s take a look below.
The following may be included in your running and gait analysis physical therapy evaluation:
Running History Review: During your initial evaluation, your physical therapist may ask you questions about your running and athletic history. Including discussion about different training methods that you use and any previous injuries that you may have had.
Orthopedic Exam: This exam will focus on the movement of your muscles, joints, and tendons in relation to your running and gait.
Observational Analysis: You will run on a treadmill while being recorded so that your therapist can analyze what needs to improve in your running form. This allows us to pinpoint any areas that may need improvement.
What can be observed during gait analysis:
What part of your foot is hitting the ground first
Your turnover rate: How many times your feet hit the ground per minute
How your body flows during movement and if it is the same on each side
How hard does your foot strike the ground when you put it down
How your ankles, hips, and knees are angled as you move
And we will also look at how long each of your strides are
When might you need running therapy and gait retraining?
If you are a runner, you may have already suffered from one of the injuries below. By taking part in running and gait training you can heal, and learn how to reduce the occurrence of these injuries by learning more about proper running form and pain relieving exercises.
Common Running Injuries
Runners knee: While runners knee is a common occurrence for runners, it can affect others as well. It can be brought about by overuse, problems with your feet, unbalanced muscles, and even taking a direct hit to your knee.
Achilles Tendonitis: This injury is often caused by the overuse of your Achilles tendon. It can occur after intense runs, or as a result of sports.
Hamstring injuries: Some of the most seen hamstring injuries are pulls and muscle tears. It can vary in severity and is most common in athletes.
Plantar fasciitis: This is pain in the heel and can also vary in terms of severity.
Stress Fractures: Jumping and long distance running can eventually lead to stress fractures. These are a common sports related injury.
Are you a good candidate for running therapy and gait training?
If you have recently been in an accident that has affected your ability to walk, stand, or run, or you have a sports injury, running therapy techniques and gait training can be beneficial for you. At Evolve, our number one priority is patient care. Our team will work with you to get you back in tip top shape.
Find out more about Evolve’s Running and Gait Therapy Services!
https://www.evolveny.com/physical-therapy/running-and-gait-therapy-brooklyn
Contact us today to learn more about our running and gait physical therapy treatment plans. Leave us your contact information and we'll make sure to get you scheduled for your first one-on-one visit with a physical therapist completely free.
Call- 1-718-258-3300
Parkinson’s disease can be conquered!
Parkinson’s Disease and Physical Therapy in Brooklyn, NY. “Do not hold a patient’s coat as long as he can put him on by himself”, says the main advice to a family whose member is diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. Despite numerous medical achievements, there are still conditions which cannot be avoided regardless of the quality of one's life. These would include degenerative diseases, and among them is Parkinson’s.
Parkinson’s Disease and Physical Therapy
“Do not hold a patient’s coat as long as he can put him on by himself”, says the main advice to a family whose member is diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease.
Despite numerous medical achievements, there are still conditions which cannot be avoided regardless of the quality of one's life.
These would include degenerative diseases, and among them is Parkinson’s.
What are the early and most common signs of Parkinson’s disease?
It is essential that we always pay attention to everything that would seem out of the ordinary. In patients with Parkinson’s we often have non motor signs appearing before motor symptoms, sometimes 5 to 10 years earlier.
These would include symptoms like hyposmia, when patient has a deficiency in sense of smell, anxiety, depression, and sometimes even dementia. However, motor signs are the ones we will be more focused on, because that is our sphere of intervention.
As a physical therapist, one of the most common questions I get from patients is how can they stop their hands from shaking. And I think most of you will agree that it is the first thing that came on your mind when the word “Parkinson’s” was mentioned. Mainly, we mean shaking, or tremor of the hands when they are still. It is an involuntary, quivering movement occurring at rest, and can sometimes be extremely mild and often difficult to diagnose. It is very important for you to know that this particular symptom characteristically appears when you do not move.
So, your next question may be “Well, should I move more often then?”
The answer is – yes. From a physical therapist standpoint, active movement and exercise is and will be your best friend during your journey towards feeling better. Especially when It comes to Parkinson’s disease. My team and I here at Evolve can offer you not only standard physical therapy treatment, but something much more exciting, believe me!
How can physical therapy for Parkinson’s disease help me
We did talk about the most recognizable symptom, but there are far more issues we can address in our profession as physical therapists. Meaning those that disrupt motor skills even more, and prevent you from functioning properly in the activities of your daily life.
Bradykinesia and Rigidity represent major symptoms in this condition, and manifest as slowness of movement and stiffness of the muscular system. Both have a great impact on a patient’s life. By conducting various aspects of physical therapy treatment such as ones we offer at Evolve your symptoms can be surely be eased, but only if there is a continuance of exercise. Exercise is your best friend, always remember that!
Early treatment by means of physical therapy and rehab is crucial, because besides taking medication, this is the only way you can try to stop the progression of the disease. In that area we can help.
What does Parkinson rehabilitation look like?
At Evolve physical therapy in Brooklyn, in order for us to start with your treatment session we must conduct certain tests by evaluating your balance, overall postural status when standing still, sitting and turning around, as well as flexibility and even joint mobility.
Joint movements through passive range of motion will help you retain flexibility in muscles and prevent shortening, while active movements keep away further progression and complications.
The priority should be on exercising and maintaining good coordination and posture while walking, or performing functional movements. For that, preventing rounded shoulder posture is the key, as well as shifting the center of gravity to be more behind. This will help with the characteristic “skiing position” as I like to call it, when patients appear to be tilted in front while walking.
Reduction of muscle hypertonia is also important, and for that we use techniques like massage, cryotherapy, and thermotherapy.
We discussed the tremor in hands, and to fight it, one must move them. Remember this – active movement reduces trembling. Holding objects with both hands will also help, providing a more secure grip and stability of the hand. As we always say here, nothing can come over night. Going slow is essential, and it will give you a strong foundation. Rome wasn’t built in a day, right?
Find out more about Parkinsons Disease and Physical Therapy in Brooklyn.
How can Rock Steady exercise for Parkinson’s help you?
Do you remember when I mentioned that we have something more exciting to offer other than regular physical therapy? Well, our Rock Steady exercise program gives you the opportunity to fight Parkinson’s in a more, should I say, active manner. What can be more active than fighting it – literally!
By incorporating the elements of boxing into your exercise and rehab program, you can benefit not only because It’s good fun and extremely entertaining, but it can significantly change the outcome of regular rehabilitation sessions.
How can Rock Steady Boxing make a change?
It makes a huge upgrade to your hand-eye, and overall coordination, it reduces tremors, and gives you better stability and postural control. You will get a chance to learn how to execute punches, move your feet rhythmically, improve your speed, and increase your strength.
The Rock Steady Boxing for Parkinson’s program offers an opportunity to anyone willing to face their condition head-on. Apart from this being so unusual to anyone trying to make a connection between it and Parkinson’s disease, boxing as a method of treatment has shown tremendous results on the psychological side.
It is a lot easier when you have someone next to you who shares similar problems, and will gladly work as hard as possible to make themselves feel well again. This improves one’s motivation as well as self-determination, which are an invaluable asset alongside their willpower. If we check the boxes right here together, then all you have left to do is to sign up by clicking here- Rock Steady Boxing classes.
Find out more about Parkinsons Disease and Physical Therapy in Brooklyn.
Read more about Evolve Physical Therapy’s Rock Steady Boxing Classes Featured on NBC Nightly News!
After Pregnancy Physical Therapy
Pain is not something you should tolerate, especially during and after pregnancy while stress is out of the question. My team here at Evolve physical therapy in Brooklyn can assure you that there is much that can be done to make your pregnancy as painless as possible.
Postpartum Physical Therapy Services
Exercising during and after pregnancy is exceptionally important, and every pregnant woman should invest her time doing so when under the supervision of her physical therapist and personal trainer. Movement is the very essence of health and is beneficial to everyone. Just as a professional athlete needs to stay on top of his game year-round, future moms have to take extra care of their health status in order to be able to endure one of the most demanding and beautiful periods of their life.
Running through the basics - what can I expect during pregnancy?
Carrying a baby causes loads of changes, and a lot occurs due to physiological hormonal fluctuations in your body. In the beginning, everything is gradual, then it speeds up dramatically. In the final trimester, you can tell every difference from week to week.
All of this means changes in all tissues, but most important for us as physical therapists, connective and muscle tissue becomes more soft and flexible, so it can adapt to extra weight and distension happening in your abdominal area. It all sounds quite normal, and it absolutely is. However, things involving pain in the back and joints tend to happen as well, and are often also categorized as "physiological" and transitory. Pain is not something you should tolerate, especially during and after pregnancy while stress is out of the question. My team here at Evolve physical therapy in Brooklyn can assure you that there is much that can be done to make your pregnancy as painless as possible.
Physiotherapy for Back Pain
The lower back and joint system are where the pain is most likely to occur while carrying a baby. This usually happens around the 5th month, followed by an increase in body weight. Some of the other contributing factors would be:
Sitting a lot, or sleeping in a non-physiological position
Laxity of ligaments in pregnancy
Increased pressure on lower extremity nerves caused by the enlargement of the uterus
Distension of the deep abdominal wall
Of course, not all of these problems happen to every single pregnant woman. But still, the main rule I always follow in this particular case is that exercise is our best friend in ensuring a more comfortable postpartum period. In that case, I suggest we get down to working out!
Relieving postpartum back pain is one of our main goals here at Evolve. You can expect one of our therapists to lead you through an individual postpartum workout plan consisting of carefully selected exercises to cover every critical region.
Strengthening your core is something your body will be most grateful for because weakness in the abdomen automatically means weakness of the spine stabilizing system. With nothing to hold your vertebrae, lower back pain is imminent. However, that is something we can and will change.
Our next stop will be mending the abdominal separation, also known as diastasis recti abdominis. During pregnancy as your abdomen distends, and connective tissue or linea alba that connects left and right side of the rectus abdominis muscle becomes stretched and become thinner. This allows the abdominal muscles to stretch as well and make room for the baby. Sometimes this separation in your abdomen spontaneously retreats after giving birth, but there are cases that demand physical therapy treatment. This is where we jump in, offering you the opportunity to try out our postpartum rehab program at Evolve!
Manual therapy as a Healing Approach
Manual therapy consists of applying specific techniques and skills such as joint manipulation and mobilization, as well as methods by which a physical therapist evaluates and treats soft tissues and bone structures. The primary goal of manual therapy is to reduce pain, increase mobility and eliminate inflammatory changes. This will, of course, result in better blood circulation in that region as well, ensuring much quicker convalescence in your postpartum period!
Manual therapy techniques can be used as a multi-modal approach, and we should always strive to combine them with other kinesitherapy and proprioceptive techniques. Many elements of this healing method require certain expertise, and that is why you should consider consulting one of our team members here at Evolve physical therapy.
How can strength training help me in the postpartum period?
Just when you think you're out of the woods you realize that there are loads of things waiting for you on the other side, and it's not going to be easy getting them back like they used to be. Like I said in the beginning, exercising at this point may feel over overwhelming after all you've been through, but it is your one-way ticket to feeling and looking healthy and functional once again. It will benefit you greatly, and help you to do the following:
Reestablish normal breathing patterns: In the postpartum period, paradoxical breathing can occur and gentle, steady breathing exercises and kinesitherapy is just what you need to get back on track.
Strengthen your deep pelvic floor: In order to prevent unpleasant incontinence episodes, muscles of the pelvic floor should always remain on top of their function and serve as a steady foundation for your urogenital tract and pelvic organs. To ensure all of this, we offer you to join us at Evolve and follow a workout plan devised by one of our team members that will help you in cases like this.
Improve stability of your lower back: We already talked about the importance of spine stability through pregnancy and it is equally important for it to stay stable and healthy after your postnatal rehabilitation. Again you can consult one of our therapists, and enroll in our postpartum rehab program that can be designed according to your needs!
Work with the Evolve Team for Physical Therapy After Pregnancy
There is absolutely no need for you to feel additionally exhausted and in pain because of a few bumps on the road. With the right amount of attention and work, everything can become the way it used to be. So come and join us so that we make sure you fully enjoy your newest phase of life. Oh and, congratulations!
Prehabilitation for Sports Related Injuries
It is known that exercising enhances both physical and mental health, but the real question is – when do its effects actually start making a change in your body? The answer is a quite relieving and studies have shown that …
How to Prevent Sports Injury Through Prehabilitation Services
It is known that exercising enhances both physical and mental health, but the real question is – when do its effects actually start making a change in your body? The answer is a quite relieving and studies have shown that as little as one carefully planned and dosed training session can significantly reduce the risk of a heart attack! That is, if you remain consistent and attend your workouts continuously.
Here at Evolve, we can give you the opportunity to prevent things like this from happening. Whether it’s a heart condition, or a common sports related injury like tears or muscle pulls, by conducting prehabilitation exercises you can lessen your chances of an injury. Better safe than sorry, believe me!
Why would you need prehab?
Unlike rehabilitation which represents physical therapy after a certain injury or operation, prehab consists of well-structured and supervised exercises that ameliorate the outcome of a surgery, or lower the risk of training accidents of players on the field. That kind of preparation can be beneficial to your recovery, whatever situation you’re in. Leave your excuses at home, because here at Evolve physical therapy in Brooklyn, we can give you a variety of choices for you to better the odds when it comes to your health.
The Benefits of Prehab Exercises
Physical therapy prior to intense exercise or any other medical procedure can be a crucial step in preventing injuries. I always say that in order for a professional athlete to endure the enormous stress they put on their body daily, they primarily need to be functional and have a healthy postural status. Same goes for everyone else, even if they aren’t in that kind of situation. Whether you need surgery, or you just want to participate for your overall well-being. I myself, along with my team of highly experienced physical therapists here at Evolve, can guide you through a wide range of exercises that will help you prevent accidents such as:
Prehab for Knee Injuries
Injuries of the knee joint are one of the most common among professional athletes, and in many cases very dangerous because they can easily end their career. However, they can happen to anyone, even if they don’t play a professional sport. At Evolve we like to do things strategically and that means approaching the issue from every possible angle, in order to prevent these knee injuries. Our primary goal is to strengthen the muscles surrounding the knee, meaning every one that produces knee flexion and extension - mainly quadriceps and biceps femoris muscle, along with other muscles that contribute to overall stability of the joint. The goal is that after you go through our treatment you will be able to easily perform every movement in the knee. We want to make sure that your full range of motion has been restored, and that it remains stable throughout every activity.
Prehabilitation for Cycling Injuries
Prehabilitation is a fantastic method for preventing injury while cycling. Cycling is a beautiful sport, and I personally love it very much. However, there is one thing we should all have in mind when we think of going cycling - it is a highly repetitive sport. In order for us to be able to keep pedaling on and on, we have to engage in this sort of activity well prepared. That means strengthening and conditioning muscles that stabilize joints and take all the impact of those high repetitions. Mainly we mean your hips, knees, and wrists. Not only do they need good support, but you must also be aware of all the other complications that can occur because of an uncomfortable, non-physiological position when sitting on a bike. Our team can conduct different training and physiotherapy sessions that will prevent pain in your cervical and thoracic spine, prevent injuries of ligaments surrounding lower extremity joints, and most importantly to help you be able to enjoy cycling as long as possible without feeling any discomforts!
Shoulder pain, Muscle Tears, Pulls and Other Sports Related Injuries
Shoulder injuries are one of the most common ones in sports that mainly require usage of the arms, such as basketball or baseball. Basketball players often have problems with shoulder pain when lifting arms above their head, and why wouldn’t they feel pain when this puts the shoulder joint in a very non-anatomic position? On the other hand, baseball players need to have strong enough posterior muscles of the shoulder joints, in order to avoid tearing of ligaments, glenoid labrum, and more. Besides these, all the other sports carry their risks, but let’s stick to most common cases.
If you feel pain, or if you suffered a muscle tear in the past, you shouldn’t let it happen to you again. There are ways we can help you ensure that you don’t. By performing functional movement patterns as an element of carefully planned and supervised physical therapy, you can achieve the proper posture, stability and overall functionality. Whether we talk about shoulder prehab exercises, or exercises that give you stability and strength in every other critical joint. Undergoing prehabilitation therapy like we offer here at Evolve might just be the missing element for you to have complete enjoyment when participating in sports activities.
What are the main goals of prehabilitation?
Sometimes the external forces that affect our body in various physical activities can be inevitable and dominant, and there is just nothing we can do to stop an injury from happening. This is very common with contact sports. However, I think that in many cases we alone are most responsible for our injuries. All too often we engage in activities while being inadequately prepared!
When I say inadequately, I mean we usually skip the warm up. In my opinion, this is a terrible decision. A moderate warm up will increase the blood flow through our muscles and make them more flexible, decreasing the risk of an injury. Simply put, a 10-minute
Investment of your time can save you weeks of taking painkillers!
Your muscles need to be well conditioned for every specific type of sport. If you jog every morning and then suddenly you decide you want to play football, you will have a major risk of hurting yourself. Every sport has its demands, and if you doubt your strength or overall stability that’s needed for it, undergoing prehab won’t bring you any harm.
Last but not least, you can always give your muscles a nice good stretch whenever you can. Whether you just finished working out, or right before you hit the pillow. Remember, everything you do to contribute to your overall well-being makes you maybe one step ahead of an unpleasant surprise. If you would like to learn more about our prehab services, feel free to give our team a call today.
What is Prehabilitation Therapy?
What is Prehabilitation Therapy? Prehabilitation, or prehab, is a combination of aerobic exercises, strength training, and individual treatment plans to prepare a patient who is about to undergo surgery.
What is Prehab?
Prehabilitation, or prehab, is a combination of aerobic exercises, strength training, and individual treatment plans to prepare a patient who is about to undergo surgery or for athletes.
These exercises benefit your body by getting it ready for the stresses that a surgery can cause. Establishing an exercise routine prior to your surgery is a vital component of your recovery, and you can often start as early as six weeks prior to your procedure. However, your therapist will come up with an individualized plan just for you.
Prior to creating your customized prehab plan, you will have a full body evaluation from your physical therapist. This allows them to formulate a plan to address and correct any areas of muscle weakness.
If you want to avoid any unnecessary pain or injury after a surgery, prehab is the way to go.
Additional Benefits of Prehabilitation Therapy
While prehab is an excellent choice for surgical candidates, that is not the only area that this type of treatment can be beneficial for. If you are an athlete or even an occasional sports player, these exercises can help you too. The movements utilized in prehabilitation methods can help reduce the likelihood of injury during physical activity.
Learn more about our prehabilitation services at Evolve here.
https://www.evolveny.com/physical-therapy/prehabilitation-therapy-brooklyn
The Importance of Prehabilitation Exercises
If you have a health condition where you are looking to avoid surgery, or you know you are having surgery, prehab can help. This physical therapy treatment can allow you to have the best possible results after surgery, or even assist you with avoiding any unnecessary surgeries.
Prehab therapy can help with the following surgeries and more.
Hip and knee replacement
Joint replacement
Orthopedic surgery
Speed up Your Recovery Time with Prehabilitation
Prehabilitation exercises have the ability to help prevent injuries before they happen, as well as provide the possibility of a greater outcome post-surgery.
Having physical therapy before your surgery can help in the following ways:
You will regain your strength faster and increase recovery speed
Shorter hospital stays
It will mentally prepare you for your surgery
It may decrease the possibility of high risk side effects from surgery
An increase the overall outcome of your surgery
Contributing Factors of a Prehabilitation Plan
Prehab is not limited to just a physical therapy plan. While this is a vital part of your prehabilitation treatment, there are other areas of your health that your doctor may want to adjust prior to surgery. These may include: Changes to diet and lifestyle, breathing and meditation exercises, aerobic exercises, and potentially changes to your medication.
Should you consider prehab Therapy?
Almost everyone that is about to have surgery can benefit from a prehab plan. Your doctor can refer you to a physical therapist who can give you an evaluation to determine what course of action would be best for you. Depending on your current pain status, and the type of surgery you will be having, your therapist will customize a movement routine that will help to alleviate pain and promote a positive surgical outcome.
Click here for more information about prehab therapy in Brooklyn
If you are currently an extremely active individual, or maybe not so much, you can gain something from working with a physical therapist prior to surgery. At Evolve, we can help you every step of the way. Contact us today to schedule a consultation. Call-1-718-258-3300
Evolve Physical Therapy-
Evolve Physical Therapy and Sports Rehabilitation services the New York community. We evaluate, heal, and strengthen our clients so they can reach their goals, feel better, and live happier lives.
3 Convenient Locations in Brooklyn- Marine Park, Mill Basin, Park Slope
Rock Steady Boxing NYC Family Appreciation Day!
Rock Steady Boxing Family Appreciation Day Hosted By: Evolve Physical Therapy & Sports Rehabilitation and Sparks of Life Parkinson’s Disease Foundation. March 3rd, 2019. Free to Attend! RSVP by Feb 25th.
Rock Steady Boxing Family Appreciation Day Hosted By: Evolve Physical Therapy & Sports Rehabilitation and Sparks of Life Center for Parkinson’s.
Join us at 1:00 pm for fun energy flowing Rock Steady Boxing Class followed by an educational presentation and open discussion about the latest Parkinson’s therapies at 1:45 pm. Leading the discussion will be the following experts from NYU:
Dr. Alon Mogilner, Neurosurgeon and Director of Neuromodulation
Dr. Michael Pourfar, Movement Disorder Specialist
Be sure to RSVP by Tuesday February 26th as there are limited seats available. A light kosher lunch will be served.
RSVP by reserving general admission tickets online or calling 718.258.3300, emailing info@evolveny.com with your full name and a phone number and the number of people in your group that will attend.
We welcome all interested in learning or supporting those with Parkinson's to attend.
Date and Time
Sun, March 3, 2019
1:00 PM – 3:00 PM EST
Location
Mayan Yisroel
3315 Avenue N
Brooklyn, NY 11234
More info:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/rock-steady-boxing-family-appreciation-day-tickets-57035417469
About Evolve Physical Therapy:
There’s physical therapy, there’s training, and then there’s EVOLVE. We use the science of biomechanics merged with fitness to help our patients get better!
Schedule Free Consultation Today!
Call- 1-718-258-3300
Manual Therapy- A Physical Therapy Technique
Forget about the daily pain and discomfort! My team and I can take you through a series of exercises to increase your strength and flexibility. We can target any affected soft tissues and help you regain mobilization.
Manual Therapy for Pain Relief
What is Manual Therapy?
Manual Therapy is a very effective hands on approach that is used for the treatment of muscles, ligaments, and joints. A physical therapist can target any areas of pain or discomfort that you may have with specialized movement and exercises that are utilized to strengthen weak muscle groups and improve your mobility. People who suffer from back pain, neck and shoulder pain, headaches and orthopedic conditions can benefit from this hands-on method.
How can manual therapy be utilized to help manage chronic pain?
Soft Tissue Mobilization: This type of treatment was created to improve mechanical movement as well as to restore a patient's range of motion. Depending on what areas of the body have been affected during your accident or injury, your therapist will apply various amount of pressure to break down any adhesion that may have formed.
Joint Mobilization: If your joins are limiting your range of motion, your physical therapist may use this method to help improve your mobility. The motions used in joint mobilization will strengthen surrounding tissue of the affected joints and can allow you to gain a normal range of motion as well as decrease pain.
Strain and Counterstrain: This method is commonly used to target and treat muscle spasms that occur in the body. Erase pain and reduce spasms with this hands-on technique.
Muscle Energy Techniques: Treat dysfunctional joints with this type of treatment that uses muscle contractions to relax and lengthen your muscles. It can also normalize the motion of your joints.
You can learn more about Evolve’s manual therapy services here.
Can this method help you with daily muscle and joint pain?
Are you dealing with everyday pain in your muscles and joints? Manual therapy may be the right choice for you. At Evolve, we want to help you begin your journey to healing and teach you how to fight back against daily muscle and joint pain. Schedule a consultation with us today!
Could you reap the rewards of manual therapy?
If you are still unsure about the wonderful benefits of manual therapy, here are a few other conditions that this type of treatment has been proven to help.
Hip & Knee Replacement: Have you recently had a hip, knee, or even joint replacement? Manual therapy can assist you with promoting regular muscle and joint movement, and it can help you get back to your daily routine faster.
Arteritis/Osteoporosis: Do you suffer from arthritis or osteoporosis? The methods used in a manual therapy treatment plan can help you to cope with pain management.
Headaches: Do you suffer from frequent headaches? People who get tension headaches and migraines can also benefit from manual therapy services.
TMJ: If you have temporomandibular joint dysfunction, a condition that limits the movement of the jaw, you may be a great candidate for manual physical therapy. Our therapists can assist you with pain management for your TMJ.
Fibromyalgia: Chronic pain and fatigue are the most common symptoms of fibromyalgia. While there currently is no cure, a skilled physical therapist can help you to improve mobility and to reduce daily pain.
Manual Therapy Services You Can Rely on with Lou Ezrick, Evolve
These conditions along with many others can benefit from the hands-on approach used in manual therapy practices. If you or someone you know has chronic joint or muscle pain, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team today to start reducing pain and regain your mobility.
Brooklyn's Premier Holistic Physical Therapy Clinics-
There’s physical therapy, there’s training, and then there’s EVOLVE. We use the science of biomechanics merged with fitness to help our patients get better and stay better!
Multiple Locations!
Sports Physical Therapy- Common Sports Injuries
As an athlete, it is important that you can get back on the field as soon as possible after an injury. Here at Evolve, my team and I specialize in many sports physical therapy and rehabilitation services
Sports Physical Therapy and Sports Rehabilitation for Popular Sporting Injuries
As an athlete, it is important that you can get back on the field as soon as possible after an injury. Here at Evolve, my team and I specialize in many sports physical therapy and rehabilitation services. Below we’ve highlighted a few of the ways that we can assist you during your recovery.
Sports Physical Therapy Services
We offer a few different specialty services to help you recover from your sporting injuries. Below are a few examples:
Prehabilitation: I’ve seen the benefits of prehabilitation exercises for athletes. While it was previously primarily beneficial prior to having surgery, over the years it has developed into a popular functional fitness and injury prevention technique.
Manual Therapy: My team and I can use manual therapy as a hands-on method to target the weak muscles in and around your injury to reduce pain, and promote better mobility.
Deep Tissue Massage: As an athlete, you put a ton of stress on your body during training and games. My team and I can provide a deep tissue massage to reduce pain and promote healing.
Running & Gait Training: As an athlete, having proper form while running is extremely important. My team and I can help you to improve your function and enhance your performance.
Common Sports Injuries
If you are an athlete, or simply an avid sports player, chances are you may get injured. Here are a few of the most common sporting injuries that we see come through our doors here at Evolve.
Football Injuries and How to Treat Them
As a full contact sport, injuries are very common for football players. Whether you have over exerted yourself at practice or you take a hard tackle, a lot of these injuries requires physical therapy services. At Evolve, my team and I can help you develop a treatment plan to get you back into your best shape if you are suffering from any of the following injuries.
Knee Injuries: Knee injuries are very common in the football world. As a football player, having a knee injury can land you off the field for a long time. My team and I want to help you heal from your injuries faster. By utilizing our knee physical therapy services, we can help you with exercises that promote recovery, balance, and holistic healing.
Shoulder Injuries: Another popular injury among football players is shoulder injuries. These can include labrum and joint injuries. Our team can address any muscle tears and we can help you to restore shoulder function and mobility through our physical therapy services for shoulder injuries.
Overuse Injuries: Back pain is a frequent complaint from football players. If you are experiencing back pain this may be a sign of overuse from intense training. The kind of pain caused by overuse can be targeted by icing or with stretching and physical therapy exercises.
Basketball Injuries and Treatment Methods
While basketball isn’t a full contact sport, it is skill likely that at some point you may have an injury. The Evolve team and I can help you recover from the following injuries through our sports physical therapy services.
Ankle Injuries: Injured ankles are very popular among basketball players. It is essential to play this sport that you fully recover from any ankle injury. A few of the frequent ankle injuries that we see are dislocations, fractures, sprains, tendonitis, or post-surgical recovery. With years of experience in the field, my team and I can help you recover from ankle injuries by using specialized sports ankle physical therapy methods.
Knee Injuries: Some of the most common knee injuries that we’ve seen from basketball players are ACL tears and MCL tears, fractures, and tendonitis. In more severe cases your injury may require surgery before you can start physical therapy. Our goal is to help you through a customized exercise and physical therapy treatment plan specific to your injuries. We want to see you regain the strength and mobility that you may have lost due to your sports injury.
Shoulder Injuries: Rotator cuff tears are one of the most common shoulder injuries. As a frequently used part of the body for basketball and activities related to daily living, you will want to recover from this injury as soon as possible. Let us help you start to find healing today.
Hand & Wrist Injuries: Injuries of the hand and wrist are also common with basketball players. If you’ve injured your hand or wrist you will be out of luck with basketball until the injury heals. Don’t spend unnecessary time on the sidelines. While the duration of every treatment plan is different, both hand physical therapy and wrist physical therapy has been proven to increase recovery times.
Common Injuries and Their Treatment Plans for Baseball Players
Baseball is a sport that sees its fair share of injuries as well. If you are a professional player or are a frequent player in pickup games, you may find that the stress put on your body can eventually result in injury. Below are some of the most common baseball injuries that my team and I can help you with our specialized physical therapy for baseball players here at Evolve.
Rotator Cuff Injuries: The overall goal for physical therapy with a rotator cuff injury is to improve the function of each muscle that surrounds your shoulder. By building and strengthening these muscles you will find that you can increase mobility.
Tennis Elbow: Tennis elbow happens when the muscles around your elbow have been overused. It can cause pain and inflammation. By using sports physical therapy exercises you can start to reduce any pain and inflammation that has occurred.
ACL Injuries: If your ACL has been damaged due to an injury our team can help. A physical therapy treatment plan for a torn ACL may include, gait training, strengthening exercise, range of motion exercises, balance exercises and more.
Wrist & Hand Injuries: As a baseball player, full wrist and hand function is imperative. Here at Evolve, we can help you with strengthening and range of motion exercises to start helping you heal from wrist and hand injuries.
Treating Soccer Injuries with Physical Therapy
Soccer is another sport that includes likely chances of injury due to the speed and nature of the sport. If you have been injured during a game or have noticed pain after a grueling practice, we are here to help. Below are some examples of the frequently seen injuries of those who participate in this sport.
Ankle & Hamstring Strains: My team and I can help you with pain management for ankle and hamstring strains by teaching you exercises that can help you regain your normal range of motion. Our team can help you get back in the game faster and in your best shape yet.
Overuse Injuries: An overuse injury is also a common one for soccer players. By utilizing prehab exercises, you can help to prevent these kinds of injuries from occurring.
Soft Tissue Injuries: A soft tissue injury can occur when an excessive force is put on your soft tissues. To recover from a soft tissue injury, we can assist you with manual therapy, range of motion exercises, and more to help you fully recover and get back to the game you love.
Sports Therapy and Rehabilitation Services with Evolve
Do you have a sports injury that is keeping you from being able to return to the sport you love? Here at Evolve, my team and I want to see you make a full recovery. Reach out to us today to learn more about our physical therapy and rehabilitation services for sporting injuries. You can schedule your first consultation free of charge. We look forward to hearing from you!
The Benefits of Occupational Physical Therapy for the Workplace
An Occupational Therapist (OT) helps to access people suffering from physical or even mental illness. Your OT will work with you to evaluate your injury, formulate a therapy plan to help you reach your goals, and assist you with exercises and treatment during the duration of your injury.
The Benefits of Occupational Therapy for the Workplace
An Occupational Therapist (OT) helps to access people suffering from physical or even mental illness. Your OT will work with you to evaluate your injury, formulate a therapy plan to help you reach your goals, and assist you with exercises and treatment during the duration of your injury.
Occupational therapists often treat a large variety of work related injuries. Some of the most common of which are: Tendon inflammations, nerve disorders, and sprains. With the use of occupational therapy your therapist can help you recover from your injury and regain any skills that you may have lost along the way.
Call-1-718-258-3300
Occupational Therapy Services
Outpatient occupational physical therapy services can assist you if you have had hand, elbow, or wrist trauma, tendonitis, neurological trauma, concussions, and other work and sports related injuries.
Some of the following are commonly used services to assist in individual therapy treatment plans.
Using physical agent modalities
Training in adaptive techniques
Therapeutic exercises
Therapeutic activities including task simulation
And more!
Common Careers That See Frequent Workplace Injuries
Construction Workers: Due to the responsibilities of the job, construction workers often operate heavy machinery and do a lot of lifting. This type of movement can often result in injury that may require occupational therapy.
Subway Workers: General upkeep and maintenance of the subway system can take its toll on you as well. Not to mention put you in some dangerous situations that may result in injury.
Taxi Drivers: As a driver, there is always the possibility of getting into a wreck or a car accident.
Sanitation Workers: Workers in the sanitation field face the risk of physical injury on the job, and the possibility of an accident caused by reckless drivers that attempt to pass their trucks.
Factory Workers: Factories are not always the safest place to be employed. Whether you get injured while working with required machinery, or have health complications due to extreme environments, there is a possibility that you may need occupational therapy for your injury.
Nurses: Lifting and moving patients along with other physical day to day routines may cause you to get injured on the job as a nurse.
Police Officers: Officers are always on the move. Besides the dangerous aspects of their job, they also may be injured during a chase, or other daily duties, resulting in a sprain or worse.
Firefighters: As another job that requires a lot of movement and high risk conditions, firefighters may also be subject to injury while on the job.
Transit Workers: As driving requires prolonged periods of time sitting, holding a wheel, and potentially accidents; transit workers are common patients we see for occupational physical therapy.
Office Workers: Sitting at a desk all day long is by far healthy for anyone. From bad posture to carpal tunnel, office workers are also common patients at Evolve Physical Therapy in NYC.
Have You Been Injured on The Job? Physical Therapy and Workers Compensation Claims
An injury at work can often mean that until your recovery, you will be out of a job for some time.
As if your injury was not stressful enough as it is, now someone has to cover for you while you focus on regaining what you may have lost. Luckily, a lot of these industries with frequent on the job injuries often have plans in place for you if you have been hurt at the workplace. Some may even cover the cost for occupational physical therapy treatments .
At Evolve, we can work with you and your employer to help get you back on the job as soon as possible.
To learn more about our occupational therapy services, don’t hesitate to give us a call today- 1-718-258-3300
Brooklyn’s Premier Holistic Physical Therapy Clinics in NYC
Evolve Physical Therapy treatment programs- active release therapy, Parkinsons disease boxing training, running and gait physical therapy, pediatric and adolescent physical therapy, Schroth Method for scoliosis, hand physical therapies, TMJ therapy, soft tissue therapy, injury prevention therapy, manual physical therapies for different parts of the body, suffers from neck tension, muscle tightness, tight calf muscles, post surgery recovery and care, carpal tunnel, pre-hab physical therapy, occupational physical therapy programs, aquatic physical therapy, pain management, spine programs, sports physical therapy, return to work programs, and much more.
Call to schedule an appointment: 1-718-258-3300
How Can Physical Therapy Help with Pain and Discomfort Caused by Scoliosis?
Have you struggled with finding the right treatment plan for your scoliosis? At Evolve Physical Therapy in NYC, we want to see you find relief from any discomfort caused by your condition…
Evolve NYC Physical Therapy Scoliosis Treatment
Have you struggled with finding the right treatment plan for your scoliosis? At Evolve, we want to see you find relief from any discomfort caused by your condition. If you or someone that you care about are looking for innovative physical therapy treatment methods that can help alleviate your pain, you’ve come to the right place.
Schedule a Consultation!
Call- 1-718-258-3300
What is Scoliosis?
In simple terms, scoliosis is a condition that causes your spine to move to the side and turn. When viewing your spine on an x-ray, it may appear to have an “s” or a “c” shape. Scoliosis is a medical condition that is often detected during a physical examination and cannot be prevented. However, there are many fantastic physical therapy treatments and plans that can assist in increasing your function and mobility.
Common Symptoms of Scoliosis
While scoliosis can sometimes be pain free for some individuals, for others that is simply not the case. Below are some of the many ways that this condition may cause you irritation or discomfort.
Scoliosis can alter your alignment and posture
Pain can occur with certain movements or activities
You may notice that you have an uneven hip or waist line
Pain can occur in the following areas: spine, shoulders, pelvis, and hips
Your shoulders may appear to be uneven
Combat Scoliosis Pain with Advanced Physical Therapy Treatment Options
There is a wide variety of options out there for treating your scoliosis. Some of these would include: surgery, bracing, and physical therapy. However, a physical therapist can provide an individualized physical therapy treatment plan at any time during the many phases of your Scoliosis. We can complete a full evaluation to access how the condition is affecting your body, your overall range of motion, and any other limitations that may be present.
Here are just a few of the innovative approaches that we implement with physical therapy for the treatment of scoliosis:
The Schroth Method:
This ingenious method will directly access spinal movement and muscle tightness that is caused by scoliosis. Each exercise will be tailored to benefit the unique spinal curvature of each patient. The goal of these types of exercises is to help alleviate pain and stop the curve progression of your spine and make scoliosis more manageable.
Strength Training:
At Evolve, we use strength training exercises to help build the muscles surrounding your spine back up. This type of training will be completely customized to fit the needs of your specific condition.
Range of Motion Exercises:
We can also develop and implement a plan consisting of simple range of motion exercises to help prevent, or treat any limitations caused by your scoliosis.
Manual Therapy:
Our team of dedicated physical therapists in NYC can also manually help you restore motion to joints and affected tissue. By using our hands to direct you, we can help you retain any movement patterns that you may have lost. Manual therapy has been proven to also reduce pain in those damaged tissues.
The types of treatment listed above are just some of the many options out there for reducing pain or tightness caused by scoliosis. At Evolve, we understand that each body is different. We will evaluate your individual condition to form the right treatment plan for you.
Alternative Treatment Methods for Scoliosis
If you are suffering from scoliosis it may be recommended that a brace be worn in order to prevent your condition from worsening. Wearing a brace can limit the progression of spinal curves. If your scoliosis is severe, your health professionals may even recommend considering spinal surgery or fusion to lessen the curve of your spine.
Are you suffering from pain or dysfunction caused by scoliosis?
Here at Evolve, we provide the most up to date treatments and techniques for treating pain and discomfort caused by scoliosis. Our dedicated team of therapists will work with you to implement a custom physical therapy plan to help you start seeing results, and improve your mobility. We will provide expert treatment and advice for you during any phase of your scoliosis condition.
Click here for more information about physical therapy for Scoliosis
Contact us today today to start creating your customized healing plan.
Call- 1-718-258-3300
Directly schedule an appointment through our contact form and fast track the entire process! https://www.evolveny.com/contact
About Evolve NY Physical Therapy-
NYC's Premier Holistic Physical Therapy Clinics-
There’s physical therapy, there’s training, and then there’s EVOLVE.
We use the science of bio-mechanics merged with fitness to help our patients get better and stay better!
Schedule a Consultation Today!
Call- 1-718-258-3300
NBC Nightly News Covers Rock Steady Boxing at Evolve NY Physical Therapy
Evolve NY Hosts Rocksteady Parkinsons Boxing, Tapped for NBC Nightly News TV Section; Set to Air Oct. 20, 2018 6:30p.m.
Evolve NY Hosts Rocksteady Parkinsons Boxing, Tapped for NBC Nightly News TV Section; Set to Air Oct. 20, 2018 6:30p.m.
Dynamic Physical Therapy Network in NYC, EvolveNY, Adds Special Boxing Training Program for People Living With Parkinson's Disease; Receives Recognition in form of section on NBC Nightly News Oct 20th, 2018 at approximately 6:30-6:45 pm.
Evolve NY Physical Therapy has had Certified Physical Therapists in NYC treating patients with conditions such as Parkinson’s Disease for over 25 years. As such, Evolve Physical Therapy has proudly partnered with Rock Steady Boxing at the beginning of 2018 to provide a one of a kind exercise program based on the training regiment of professional boxers at their Brooklyn, NY location that is specifically aimed at treating people suffering from Parkinson’s Disease.
What is Rock Steady Boxing?
Rock Steady Boxing (RSB) is a unique exercise program that adapts pro boxing techniques for people with Parkinson’s disease and has helped thousands of people across the country regain strength, mobility and hope.
Lock in Your Position at Evolve NY’s Rock Steady Boxing Class Today!
Call: 1-718-258-3300
What is Parkinson’s Disease?
Parkinson's disease (PD) is a long-term degenerative disorder of the central nervous system that mainly affects the movement. Common symptoms include tremors, rigid movements, slurred speech, and slowing of movement that can make a simple task like getting out of chair frustratingly time-consuming.
The statistics from the Parkinson’s Foundation are staggering:
Nearly one million will be living with Parkinson's disease (PD) in the U.S. by 2020, which is more than the combined number of people diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, muscular dystrophy and Lou Gehrig's disease (or Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis)
Approximately 60,000 Americans are diagnosed with PD each year.
More than 10 million people worldwide are living with PD.
The incidence of Parkinson’s disease increases with age, but an estimated four percent of people with PD are diagnosed before age 50.
Men are 1.5 times more likely to have Parkinson's disease than women.
Why Rock Steady Boxing at Evolve NY?
It is estimated that 1-1.5 million Americans have Parkinson’s disease, with as many as 60 thousand new cases being diagnosed each year. The Rock Steady Boxing program provides an opportunity to drastically improve physical condition, mobility, renewed hope, quality of life, and also adds the sense of community for people living with Parkinson’s disease.
NBC Nightly News will air the Evolve NY and Rock Steady Boxing Section on Saturday, October 20th at or around 6:30-6:45 p.m.
Read Evolve NY’s Major News Story- NBC Nightly News Covers
Rock Steady Boxing at Evolve NY
For more information on Evolve NY and Rock Steady Boxing Classes for People Living With Parkinson’s Disease, please visit- https://www.evolveny.com/rsb
Evolve NY Rock Steady Boxing Class Information:
Location: 3319 Avenue N Brooklyn, NY 11234
Class Times/ Rate: Tuesday / Thursdays 10:30-12:00pm or 3:00-4:00 PM
Sunday 1:00-2:00
Lock in Your Position at Evolve NY’s Rock Steady Boxing Class Today!
Call: 1-718-258-3300
About EvolveNY-
Evolve NY Physical Therapy- NYC's Premier Holistic Physical Therapy Clinics in NYC.
Proudly serving residents in Brooklyn, NY; with patients seeking high quality, personable, and professional physical therapy services from all over NYC, Manhattan, Bronx, Queens, Staten Island, Long Island.
EvolveNY- 3 Convenient Locations 1-718-258-3300
Is Active Release Therapy Right For Me?
Active release technique (ART) is a popular treatment method used to improve range of motion and flexibility and help correct soft tissue restriction. It's one of the fastest growing treatment methods in physical therapy and sports rehab practices today. Active Release Therapy provides practitioners with an effective tool to help treat muscular pain syndromes and stiffness, therefore improving athletic performance.
Active release technique (ART) is a popular treatment method used to improve range of motion and flexibility and help correct soft tissue restriction. It's one of the fastest growing treatment methods in physical therapy and sports rehab practices today. Active Release Therapy provides practitioners with an effective tool to help treat muscular pain syndromes and stiffness, therefore improving athletic performance. Elite athletes around the world understand the benefits of regular ART sessions and oftentimes rely on them to help combat the day-to-day aches and pains associated with the repetitive stresses of sport. It can also be a solid treatment option for the average joe who enjoys physical activity but suffers from feelings of tightness and pain associated with exercise.
Where to Find Certified Active Release Technique Providers?
The medical providers who typically achieve certification in ART treatment are chiropractors, physical therapists, physicians and massage therapists. Finding a practitioner who uses ART as part of their toolbox is as simple as searching “active release therapy near me” or “active release technique Brooklyn, NY” via google. Here you will find a list of the certified practitioners in your area and where to find them.
How do I know if I can benefit from Active Release Therapy?
Some of the signs that you may benefit from ART treatment include stiffness in the elbow, neck, hands, knees, ankles, shoulders, or lower/mid back. You may also be a good candidate for this type of treatment if you experience difficulty performing exercises, have painful or swollen joints, demonstrate limited range of motion, or have the sensation of tight muscles. Many musculoskeletal disorders can be improved with the use of ART therapy. It would be beneficial to schedule a consultation with your nearest physical therapist to find out if you are a good candidate for this treatment.
How Does Active Release Therapy Work?
The aim of ART treatment is to “break up” or loosen thickened scar tissue that forms adhesions to the surrounding soft tissue. It can also be used to help prevent scar tissue formation. Thickened scars and soft tissue adhesions limit joint range of motion causing muscular tension and pain. The physiological purpose of these adhesions is to stabilize an injured body region by generating stiffness in the surrounding tissues. The problem here is that immobilization is usually not the right way to approach the soft tissue injury as it may lead to an increase in pressure on the joint itself. As a result, nerves may become trapped between layers of restricted muscle, fascia, and skin. This tension usually leads to pain and loss of muscle function/performance. ART therapy uses mobilization techniques to reverse this process and help improve mobility. The treatment itself is not typically a pleasurable experience, however most people are able to overlook this because of the relief they tend to feel afterwards.
What Are the Benefits of Active Release Therapy?
There are many potential benefits of receiving ART treatment including increased flexibility, improved range of motion optimal muscle function, and reduced pain levels.
Increased Flexibility/Range of Motion – This is accomplished by producing relaxation of the muscles and reducing any adhesions that may be found. This is especially beneficial for people who sit at a desk all day at work and feel resultant discomfort or for people who are very active during their work day and experience symptoms of muscle overactivity. Improving flexibility and range of motion will lead to improved athletic performance and decreased pain/discomfort while performing activities of daily living.
Improvements in chronic pain – Chronic pain is considered one of the main sources of dysfunction in older adults and well as people in their 20’s and 30’s. Although significant variation exists among specific diagnoses, one of the main hallmarks of chronic pain is inflammation, which can be soothed using ART techniques.
Performance enhancement– ART promotes quicker muscle recovery, thus decreasing soreness and the rest time required between training sessions or competition. For this reason, It is one of the most popular recovery tools utilized by elite athletes today. It improves blood flow to working muscles and injury sites which will help decrease pain and speed up the healing process. Enhancing your range of motion will also allow you to to move more freely and through a more natural trajectory at the joints involved.
Injury Prevention- ART helps restore normal muscle function and decreases strain on joints, which may help prevent injury during physical activity and normal daily tasks like bending down and lifting. Many athletes utilize this treatment to help upkeep their bodies during the season and prepare it for the upcoming season. By preventing the laying down of scar tissue, we are preventing adhesion formation and therefore
What sets ART apart from other soft tissue treatments?
ART is an aggressive soft tissue modality that utilizes a combination of manual pressure/massage with active movement from the patient. This combination of therapies is effective in treating soft tissue adhesions, myofascial trigger points, and joint pain. People who receive ART treatment report significant improvements in stiffness, flexibility, pain, tenderness, recovery, and performance as compared to massage on its own.
What can I expect out of Active Release Therapy?
Since ART is a very precise form of treatment, it can sometimes feel painful or overly aggressive. It's important to be thoroughly examined by your physician or physical therapist before you begin this type of treatment to ensure that you are a good candidate. Some people may experience significant improvements after just one ART session, but everyone’s body will respond differently to the onset of this treatment. Experiencing mild pain and soreness after a treatment session is normal in the beginning, however your body will eventually adapt to this pressure as time goes on. If you are feeling severe pain during treatment, please let your healthcare practitioner know, however moderate discomfort is normal. Please note that healthcare providers who utilize ART treatment should be certified in the use of active release techniques.
For more information on active release therapy, please visit: https://www.evolveny.com/active-release-therapy/
What is BPPV and How Can PT Help it?
What is BPPV?
Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV) is a disorder of the vestibular system in the inner ear. This system is responsible for coordinating head and eye movements and plays a large role in balance. Dysfunction occurs when calcium carbonate crystals break loose and fall from their original resting position in the utricle (see photo below) into one of the semicircular canals, which typically sense movements of the head. Once this occurs, the brain receives a signal that the head is moving, even though this is not the case.
By Nick Mazzone PT, DPT, CSCS
What is BPPV?
Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV) is a disorder of the vestibular system in the inner ear. This system is responsible for coordinating head and eye movements and plays a large role in balance. Dysfunction occurs when calcium carbonate crystals break loose and fall from their original resting position in the utricle (see photo below) into one of the semicircular canals, which typically sense movements of the head. Once this occurs, the brain receives a signal that the head is moving, even though this is not the case. This false signal causes uncoordinated movements of the eyes when the head is moved into a specific position (depending on which canal the crystals lands in). This leads to the sensation that the room is spinning around you, which is known as vertigo. In BPPV, the symptoms typically go away within 30 seconds or so.
What causes BPPV?
In more than half of all BPPV cases, the exact cause is unknown (AKA idiopathic). Head trauma, infections, and issues with blood flow are some of the known causes of the condition. Sometimes something as simple as a sinus infection can cause symptoms of vertigo due to congestion in the middle ear, which may place pressure on the structures of the inner ear causing dysfunction.
How do we treat BPPV?
Physical therapists are trained to treat the symptoms of vertigo by using positional maneuvers that are aimed at returning the dislodged calcium carbonate crystals to their original resting position. The most common intervention used to treat BPPV is known as the Epley maneuver. This technique consists of passive movement of the patient’s head into multiple provocative positions. This maneuver will cause your symptoms, so be ready to feel the vertigo come on. Once the symptoms subside in that particular position, it is said that the crystals have moved on to a different portion of the canals. The head is then repositioned to catch up with the new position of the crystal. At the end of the technique, the crystals should return to their original position in the utricle. Patients are typically symptom free after 1-2 sessions when the Epley is performed. Your physician or physical therapist will explain to you that you should not drive after this treatment and should plan ahead to secure yourself a ride home. You may also be given a home exercise program to help take care of any remaining symptoms.
Click here to find out more information about vestibular physical therapy, or call
Check out this video that shows an alternative exercise for treating BPPV that can be performed at home. It is particularly helpful for those who have periodically recurring symptoms and would like to expand their treatment options.
Nick Mazzone received his Doctorate in Physical Therapy from Stony Brook University. He has a strong background in strength and conditioning and aims to bridge the gap between strength training and physical therapy. Nick believes that a lifestyle centered around physical fitness and mental well-being are vital to one’s successes and happiness. For this reason, he educates his patients on pain science and helps empower them and motivate them to reach their goals every day. You can find him at Evolve Physical Therapy in Mill Basin, Brooklyn, NY. To view some of his other content, visit drnickmazzonedpt.wordpress.com.
Resources
Main photo retrieved from http://www.acceleratedhealthcentre.com/concussion
Photo of Epley maneuver retrieved from https://www.healthdiseases.org/epley-maneuver/
Photo of inner ear congestion retrieved from http://www.greathillsent.com/blog/date/2013-12-01.html
Photo of anatomy of the outer, middle, and inner ear retrieved from https://www.medcor.com/anatomy-of-the-ear/
Photo of vestibular organs retrieved from https://virginiavisiontherapycenter.com/signs-and-causes-of-vestibular-dysfunction/
Vestibular Rehabilitation for BPPV (n.d.). Retrieved from https://wwspt.com/pt-treatments/vestibular-rehabilitation/benign-paroxysmal-positional-vertigo/
What is Hip Impingement and How Can PT Help?
What is hip impingement?
Femoracetabular impingement (FAI) is a condition in which bone spurs grow on the joint surfaces of the hip. These bone spurs eventually lead to irritation of the structures at the hip, which may lead to soft tissue damage such as labrum tears and potentially arthritis.
The two types of FAI are cam lesions and pincer lesions. Cam lesions develop on the head of the femur, therefore affecting the shape of the bone. Pincer lesions form on the pelvic surface of the hip joint. There are also situations in which both of these types of lesions are present…
By Nick Mazzone PT, DPT, CSCS
What is hip impingement?
Femoracetabular impingement (FAI) is a condition in which bone spurs grow on the joint surfaces of the hip. These bone spurs eventually lead to irritation of the structures at the hip, which may lead to soft tissue damage such as labrum tears and potentially arthritis.
The two types of FAI are cam lesions and pincer lesions. Cam lesions develop on the head of the femur, therefore affecting the shape of the bone. Pincer lesions form on the pelvic surface of the hip joint. There are also situations in which both of these types of lesions are present.
What causes FAI?
Cam and pincer lesions may form due to abnormal development of the hip joint during childhood. They may also develop after prolonged pressure on the front of the hip joint over time due to asymmetries in muscle strength among the prime movers of the hip (for example, overactive hip flexors and underactive glutes).
What can be done to improve FAI?
It is imperative that we address the strength deficits present in this situation. If you have weak gluteus maximus muscles and your hip flexors are overactive, you would expect the hip joint to be sitting in a suboptimal position during functional tasks. In this scenario, you would see the femur sitting in front of its optimal position in the socket. For this reason, you want to strengthen the gluteus maximus muscles in order to realign the hip joint and prevent excessive pressure on the structures in front of the hip. Sometimes it is indicated to stretch the hip flexors, but that should be dependent on the physical therapist’s evaluation. Just because a muscle is overactive and tense does not mean it is short of length. It is also important that we strengthen the lower abdominal muscles to help stabilize the pelvis. This should help decrease the tension in the hip flexor muscles which may have been acting as a pelvic stabilizer (thus leading to overactivity).
How can PT help?
Your physical therapist will develop a specific treatment plan according to the findings of the clinical exam. While two people may both be diagnosed with hip impingement, they may present in completely different ways and with different impairments to address. For this reason, it is important to be evaluated and treated with a plan specific to you and not a general exercise plan. Your specific treatment plan is aimed at helping you return to your prior level of physical activity without pain.
Click here for more information about hip physical therapy in Brooklyn, or
Check out this video that shows three simple exercises you can do to help improve your symptoms from hip impingement:
Nick Mazzone received his Doctorate in Physical Therapy from Stony Brook University. He has a strong background in strength and conditioning and aims to bridge the gap between strength training and physical therapy. Nick believes that a lifestyle centered around physical fitness and mental well-being are vital to one’s successes and happiness. For this reason, he educates his patients on pain science and helps empower them and motivate them to reach their goals every day. You can find him at Evolve Physical Therapy in Mill Basin, Brooklyn, NY. To view some of his other content, visit drnickmazzonedpt.wordpress.com
Resources
Femoroacetabular Impingement - OrthoInfo - AAOS. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases--conditions/femoroacetabular-impingement
Main photo retrieved from https://reverehealth.com/live-better/what-is-hip-impingement/
Photo of bridging exercise retrieved from http://www.womenshealthmag.co.uk/fitness/find-a-workout/4456/how-to-do-glute-bridges/
Photo of cam and pincer lesions retrieved from https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases--conditions/femoroacetabular-impingement
Photo of muscle asymmetries retrieved from http://www.racquetfit.com/articles/Coaching/controlling_your_posture_and_the_serve
Photo of plank exercise retrieved from https://www.waysandhow.com/good-reasons-plank-daily-6-benefits-planks-exercise/
Photo of runner retrieved from http://lisabaylis.com/2017/07/15/running-for-wellness/
Thoracic Mobility: Why is it Important?
What is the thoracic spine?
The thoracic spine is the middle portion of the spinal column that connects the neck to the lower back region. It consists of 12 separate segments that serve as connections for the ribs, which protect many vital organs including the heart and lungs.
By Nick Mazzone PT, DPT, CSCS
What is the thoracic spine?
The thoracic spine is the middle portion of the spinal column that connects the neck to the lower back region. It consists of 12 separate segments that serve as connections for the ribs, which protect many vital organs including the heart and lungs.
Why is mobility here so important?
It is vital that you have adequate mobility in this region because of the interdependent relationship it has with the cervical and lumbar spine. If you do not have enough motion in the mid back, the nervous system depends more heavily on the upper and lower spine to make up for that motion. This lack of thoracic mobility can then be a contributor to neck pain or low back pain.
Overhead mobility
We need adequate thoracic mobility in order to move our shoulder joints into their natural end ranges of motion. If we do not have enough mobility here, more strain is then placed on the glenohumeral joint (shoulder ball-and-socket joint). In this case, we usually see a compensatory increase in motion at the shoulder joint that may lead to increased pressure or strain on the soft tissue in this region. This may increase the chance of injury over time. It is also important to note that we need enough thoracic mobility when we perform overhead presses at the gym. If we cannot keep our thoracic spine extended to neutral (straight spine; not hunched over), we would have to compensate by extending the lumbar spine (bending low back in backward direction). This could lead to increased pressure on the discs of the lumbar region, especially when we load the exercise with too much weight.
Breathing and rib expansion
We just discussed how each thoracic segment is a connection point for the ribs. This means that adequate thoracic mobility is essential for normal expansion of the ribcage while we breathe. When we take a large inhalation, the thoracic spine extends (segment rotates backwards). This allows the ribs to create more space for the lungs to expand. When we exhale, the thoracic spine flexes in order to return to its resting position (flexion would be rotating forward). If we cannot extend the thoracic spine adequately, it limits the amount of air that can fill the lungs. This is important for regulation of the parasympathetic nervous system as well as the cardiovascular system.
Relationship to legs and lumbar spine during squat
You need normal thoracic extension in order to properly perform loaded lower body movements such as the squat. If you are starting to pick up on the theme of interdependence, you are on the right track here. When you perform a squat with resistance from a barbell at the gym, you are resting the bar on your shoulders. When you do not have adequate thoracic mobility, your center of mass shifts forward. This alters the biomechanics of the entire exercise form the floor to the head and neck. This makes it harder to keep your heels down and keep your buttocks back, which ensures that the load is properly handled by the hips and spine. The lumbar spine would then have to compensate by overextending itself, forcing it to handle more of the load than it normally would have to.
Check out this video that shows 3 simple exercises you can perform to help improve thoracic mobility:
Click here for more information about physical therapy for mid back pain
Nick Mazzone received his Doctorate in Physical Therapy from Stony Brook University. He has a strong background in strength and conditioning and aims to bridge the gap between strength training and physical therapy. Nick believes that a lifestyle centered around physical fitness and mental well-being are vital to one’s successes and happiness. For this reason, he educates his patients on pain science and helps empower them and motivate them to reach their goals every day. You can find him at Evolve Physical Therapy in Mill Basin, Brooklyn, NY. To view some of his other content, visit drnickmazzonedpt.wordpress.com.
Resources:
Main photo retrieved from https://www.t-nation.com/training/tip-improve-thoracic-spine-mobility
Photo of ribs and vital organs retrieved from https://www.britannica.com/science/thoracic-cavity
Photo of neck and low back pain retrieved from http://posturedirect.com/17-exercises-to-improve-your-thoracic-spine/
Photo of overhead mobility retrieved from https://fitnesspainfree.com/the-correct-way-to-mobilize-your-thoracic-spine-with-a-foam-roller/
Photo of squat and thoracic spine position retrieved from https://www.ensomovementculture.com/blog-1/movement-training-for-sports-people-mobility/18/4/2017
Photo of rib expansion during breathing retrieved from https://newgradphysicaltherapy.com/role-breathing-physical-therapy/
What Are Cervicogenic Headaches and How Can PT Help?
What are cervicogenic headaches?
A cervicogenic headache is caused by dysfunction in the neck, whether it be from stiff joints in the upper cervical spine or from tension in the muscles near the base of the skull. Pain from this type of headache is typically felt around the skull, temple regions, and eye sockets…
By Nicholas Mazzone, PT, DPT, CSCS
What are cervicogenic headaches?
A cervicogenic headache is caused by dysfunction in the neck, whether it be from stiff joints in the upper cervical spine or from tension in the muscles near the base of the skull. Pain from this type of headache is typically felt around the skull, temple regions, and eye sockets. The origin of this condition can be traumatic, as in a whiplash injury from a motor vehicle accident, or it could be due to prolonged abnormal load on the joints and muscles of the neck (getactivephysio.com.au).
What would be a non-traumatic cause of these types of headaches?
The most common non-traumatic cause of cervicogenic headaches is excessive, prolonged load on the joints and muscles of the neck. This is common in people who sit at a desk for most of their day at work. This occurs because the person winds up in a slumped posture in their spine, which eventually leads to what is known as “forward head posture”. This posture leads to increased tension in the muscles at the base of the skull as well as increased pressure on the first three segments of the cervical spine. Over time, this poor sitting posture can cause cervicogenic headaches. Adjusting one’s desk setup to ensure prevention of this situation can be as simple moving the keyboard closer to you. If the keyboard is placed too far away, you will have to slump forward to reach it, which will lead us to the forward head posture discussed above in order to ensure that you can see what is on your screen. Check out the picture below to get a better idea of what your desk setup should look like.
How can PT help?
Your physical therapist will create a program for you that includes manual therapy, therapeutic exercise, postural training, and stability training. Your program will also include education on how to adjust your desk setup or information on how to alter your current lifestyle in order to help your condition. Manual joint mobilization of the upper cervical spine, soft tissue mobilization of tense muscle tissue, and manual stretching of the region will help soothe the muscles and decrease pressure in the neck region. You will also be given specific exercises to target the muscles that are weak as well as the muscles that need to be lengthened. While heating modalities can feel good, they should not be the main intervention used in the treatment of cervicogenic headaches.
Check out this video that demonstrates 3 simple exercises that can help with your cervicogenic headaches:
Nick Mazzone received his Doctorate in Physical Therapy from Stony Brook University. He has a strong background in strength and conditioning and aims to bridge the gap between strength training and physical therapy. Nick believes that a lifestyle centered around physical fitness and mental well-being are vital to one’s successes and happiness. For this reason, he educates his patients on pain science and helps empower them and motivate them to reach their goals every day. You can find him at Evolve Physical Therapy in Mill Basin, Brooklyn, NY. To view some of his other content, visit drnickmazzonedpt.wordpress.com.
Resources:
Cervicogenic Headaches. (2016, March 09). Retrieved from http://www.getactivephysio.com.au/cervicogenic-headaches/
Desk posture photo retrieved from https://sinicropispine.com/tips-improve-posture/
Main photo retrieved from http://yoffielife.com/sweat-dictionary/cervicogenic-headaches/
Manual therapy photo retrieved from https://learnmuscles.com/blog/2017/11/10/treat-spinal-joint-dysfunction-manual-therapy/
Whiplash photo retrieved from https://www.bouldercentre.com/news/whiplash-diagnosis-and-treatment
A cervicogenic headache is caused by dysfunction in the neck, whether it be from stiff joints in the upper cervical spine or from tension in the muscles near the base of the skull. Pain from this type of headache is typically felt around the skull, temple regions, and eye sockets. The origin of this condition can be traumatic, as in a whiplash injury from a motor vehicle accident, or it could be due to prolonged abnormal load on the joints and muscles of the neck (getactivephysio.com.au).
ACL Tears: Do They Always Require Surgery?
What is the ACL?
The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is a crucial stabilizing structure at the knee joint. When intact, it will prevent the lower leg (tibia) from moving forward on the thigh bone (femur). The ACL is commonly torn in athletes and may require surgical intervention in order to repair it. This structure does not heal on its own mainly due to its poor blood supply and twisted structure of collagen fibers. This twisted structure leads to frayed ends and therefore, cannot heal without assistance (surgery in this case)…
By Nick Mazzone PT, DPT, CSCS
What is the ACL?
The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is a crucial stabilizing structure at the knee joint. When intact, it will prevent the lower leg (tibia) from moving forward on the thigh bone (femur). The ACL is commonly torn in athletes and may require surgical intervention in order to repair it. This structure does not heal on its own mainly due to its poor blood supply and twisted structure of collagen fibers. This twisted structure leads to frayed ends and therefore, cannot heal without assistance (surgery in this case).
How does someone typically tear their ACL?
ACL tears typically occur while the foot is planted and the femur twists over the tibia (or vice versa). Sometimes this happens because an athlete’s footwear gets caught on a grass surface, for instance. An ACL tear may also occur when an athlete lands on a straight knee on a hard surface such as a basketball court.
Can surgery be avoided?
Surgery is not necessary in all cases of an ACL tear. It would be highly suggested that an athlete who plans on returning to that same level of function receive surgical treatment to ensure that they return to their sport at the same level they were at before they got injured. For a person who tore their ACL but does not plan to partake in athletics or any activities that would require high level stability of the knee, a thorough and specific rehab program can help them return to their normal activities.
What might a non-surgical ACL rehab protocol consist of?
In the early stages, it is important to address the swelling and help strengthen the muscles around the knee in a gentle way in order to help normalize muscle activation patterns (acute swelling tends to turn these muscles off!). Once these issues have improved, we can move on to more functional exercises. A program aimed at rehabilitating someone after a torn ACL must address the limitation in the knee that is now missing one of its major stabilizing structures. While we no longer have the static stability that the ACL was providing to the knee, we can absolutely improve its dynamic stability by targeting the muscles around the knee joint. It is important to ensure that we are strengthening the hamstrings since they will act to prevent the forward movement of the tibia on the femur (which is one of the main functions of the ACL!). We must also ensure that we are challenging the stability of the knee in functional positions. This will teach the muscles around the knee joint to act together to keep the knee joint stable (co-contraction).
Check out this video that shows 3 simple exercises to help normalize the knee after a torn ACL that did not require surgery:
Click here for more information about physical therapy for ACL injuries or call 1-718-258-3300
Nick Mazzone received his Doctorate in Physical Therapy from Stony Brook University. He has a strong background in strength and conditioning and aims to bridge the gap between strength training and physical therapy. Nick believes that a lifestyle centered around physical fitness and mental well-being are vital to one’s successes and happiness. For this reason, he educates his patients on pain science and helps empower them and motivate them to reach their goals every day. You can find him at Evolve Physical Therapy in Mill Basin, Brooklyn, NY. To view some of his other content, visit drnickmazzonedpt.wordpress.com.
Resources:
Main Photo retrieved from http://www.stack.com/a/a-new-type-of-acl-surgery-could-have-athletes-back-on-the-field-faster-than-ever
Photo of ACL tear retrieved from https://www.reddit.com/r/nba/comments/2ws4zu/science_and_the_nba_digging_in_to_the_anatomy_of/
Photo of twisting of knee retrieved from https://www.parisischool.com/acl-what-why-and-how/
Photo of ACL repair retrieved from https://www.mocnyc.com/acl-reconstruction/
Photo of squat on bosu ball retrieved from http://www.ctialatest.org/lab/lab-equipment-diagram