Tag Archives: acupuncture

acupuncture, Health and Wellness, Modalities, Physiotherapy

Acupuncture and Healing: A Physiotherapy View

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Musculoskeletal injuries, ranging from sprains and strains to chronic conditions like tendonitis and back pain, are some of the most common reasons individuals seek medical care and/or physiotherapy treatment. Initially, they can be caused by a variety of factors, including trauma, overuse, poor posture, or aging. While conventional treatments such as physical therapy, medications, and surgery are often used to address these conditions, acupuncture has emerged as a complementary and alternative therapy. Fortunately, there is a growing body of evidence suggesting it may be effective in promoting healing, reducing pain, and improving function.

Acupuncture, a cornerstone of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body to stimulate energy flow. By targeting specific points, practitioners aim to restore balance and promote natural healing. 

How does acupuncture work for musculoskeletal injuries?

Acupuncture can be used on many different body areas
  1. Pain management: One of the primary reasons individuals seek acupuncture for musculoskeletal injuries is its ability to reduce pain. Studies suggest that it stimulates the nervous system to release neurotransmitters, such as endorphins and serotonin, which are known to reduce the perception of pain. Ultimately, it can alleviate discomfort from injuries like sprains, strains, and even chronic conditions like arthritis or sciatica
  2. Promoting circulation and healing: Secondly, it has been shown to improve blood circulation to the affected areas of the body. By inserting needles into specific acupuncture points, blood flow can be increased, delivering more oxygen and nutrients to injured tissues. As a result, this helps tissue repair and may speed up the healing process for musculoskeletal injuries
  3. Reducing inflammation: Inflammation is a common response to injury and can contribute to pain and delayed healing. Acupuncture is believed to help regulate the body’s inflammatory response, reducing swelling and discomfort after an injury. In fact, some studies suggest that it may inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory substances and enhance the body’s anti-inflammatory response
  4. Relaxation of Muscles and Joints: Musculoskeletal injuries often lead to muscle tension or joint stiffness. Acupuncture can help relax tense muscles and restore normal joint function. Through insertion of needles into certain points, it can produce a relaxation response and improve range of motion. This is particularly beneficial for conditions like frozen shoulder, neck pain, and lower back pain
  5. Enhancing Healing at the Cellular Level: Emerging research indicates that acupuncture may stimulate the production of growth factors, which are essential for tissue repair and regeneration. These growth factors can support the healing of muscles, tendons, and ligaments that have been damaged due to injury. By promoting cell regeneration, it may help reduce recovery time and improve long-term outcomes.

Is this treatment supported by science?

While acupuncture has been practiced for thousands of years, modern research has begun to investigate its potential benefits in treating musculoskeletal injuries. Several studies have examined the effectiveness for specific conditions, such as:

  • Chronic low back pain: It has been found to provide significant relief for individuals suffering from chronic low back pain. Research published in the Annals of Internal Medicine showed that acupuncture was more effective than conventional treatments like physical therapy and pain medication in managing chronic low back pain
  • Knee osteoarthritis: Furthermore, it has been shown to be beneficial for knee osteoarthritis, a condition characterized by pain, stiffness, and reduced function due to joint degeneration. Studies indicate that acupuncture can help reduce pain and improve function in individuals with osteoarthritis, making it an attractive alternative to medications or invasive treatments
  • Tennis elbow: Another musculoskeletal injury that has responded well to acupuncture is tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis), a condition characterized by pain and inflammation in the elbow. This treatment may reduce pain, decrease inflammation, and promote healing in affected tissues, offering an alternative to corticosteroid injections or surgery

Practical considerations and limitations

Although acupuncture can be highly effective for many individuals, it is important to consider that it may not be a one-size-fits-all solution. Results can vary depending on the severity of the injury, the individual’s overall health, and each individual’s unique response to treatment. In many cases, it is best used as a complementary treatment alongside conventional therapies like physical therapy, exercises, and proper nutrition.

Looking to try acupuncture?

Then look for PhysioNow! We have many experienced Physiotherapists that are registered to perform acupuncture. At our clinic, you can receive acupuncture alongside your regular Physiotherapy treatment to get the benefits from both! With 10 PhysioNow clinics across the GTA, we are happy to provide first-rate service to many neighbourhoods. Book with PhysioNow today for your first assessment and treatment!

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acupuncture, Dry Needling, Physiotherapy

Trigger Point Dry Needling: A Physiotherapy Tool

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Trigger Point Dry Needling (TDN) is a therapeutic technique that has gained popularity for its potential to relieve muscle pain and discomfort. Often compared to acupuncture, dry needling is a distinct approach to addressing muscle knots and trigger points in the body. In this blog, we’ll explore what trigger point dry needling is, how it differs from acupuncture, how it works, its potential pain level, and what to expect during and after the treatment.

What Is Trigger Point Dry Needling?

TDN is a therapeutic procedure that involves the insertion of fine, sterile needles into specific points in the muscles known as trigger points. Trigger points are tight knots of muscle fibers that can cause pain, limited range of motion, and discomfort. Consequently, this technique aims to release these knots, providing relief to the patient.

How Is Trigger Point Dry Needling Different from Acupuncture?

While both TDN and acupuncture involve the use of needles, they are fundamentally different in terms of their principles, goals, and techniques.
1. Theory and Philosophy

Firstly, acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine practice. It based on the belief that the body has a network of energy channels, or meridians. Thus, the needles are used to balance the flow of energy (qi) within these channels.

On the other hand, TDN is rooted in Western medicine. Specifically, it targets muscle knots or trigger points believed to cause pain, muscle dysfunction, and other symptoms.

2. Needle Placement

Primarily, Acupuncture needles are often inserted along the meridians, which may be quite distant from the pain site.

On the contrary, TDN needles are inserted directly into the trigger points or tight muscle bands responsible for pain or discomfort.

3. Goals:

Overall, acupuncture aims to address a wide range of health issues, not just musculoskeletal problems.

Conversely, TDN primarily focuses on musculoskeletal issues, targeting trigger points and relieving muscle tension.

How Does it Work?

Image by tonodiaz on Freepik

TDN works through several mechanisms:
1. Stimulation and Relaxation: Essentially, the insertion of needles into trigger points stimulates the muscle fibers, causing them to twitch and relax. This helps reduce muscle tension and improve blood flow.
2. Pain Reduction: Additionally, this technique can trigger the release of endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers. Consequently, this may provide immediate pain relief.
3. Improved Range of Motion: Furthermore, by releasing tight muscle knots, TDN can enhance joint flexibility and range of motion. As a result, it is a valuable therapy for athletes and those with mobility issues.

 Is it Painful?

The level of discomfort experienced during TDN can vary from person to person. Some individuals may feel minimal discomfort, while others may experience a temporary, sharp sensation when the needle is inserted into a trigger point. However, this discomfort is typically short-lived and subsides once the muscle relaxes. It’s important to communicate your comfort level with your therapist during the treatment to ensure adjustments can be made if necessary.

What to Expect During and After Treatment

During the Treatment:
  •  Initially, you will be asked to lie down, and the therapist will locate the trigger points through physical examination
  • Next, sterile needles will be inserted into these points, and you may feel a mild discomfort or twitching sensation
  • The therapist may gently manipulate the needles to stimulate the trigger points
  • Overall, he entire session can last from a few minutes to around 30 minutes, depending on the number of trigger points being treated
After the Treatment:
  • Some people experience immediate relief from pain and improved mobility
  • You may also experience temporary soreness or bruising at the needle insertion sites. Usually, it resolves within a day or two
  • Later, i’s recommended to stay hydrated, rest, and avoid strenuous activities on the day of treatment to allow your body to recover
In conclusion, Trigger Point Dry Needling is a Western-based therapeutic technique that focuses on addressing musculoskeletal issues by targeting trigger points in the muscles. While it involves the use of needles like acupuncture, the two practices differ significantly in their philosophies and goals. TDN can be an effective way to alleviate muscle pain and improve mobility, with the level of discomfort during treatment varying from person to person. If you’re considering TDN, consult with a qualified physiotherapist to discuss your specific needs and expectations.
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Fibromyalgia

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FIBROMYALGIA

Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition. It is often associated with widespread symptoms including fatigue, pain and sleep disturbances.

 

Causes and Risk Factors

It is unclear as to what causes fibromyalgia. However, there are some causes which might be increasing your risk of getting fibromyalgia:


Genetics-

You could be ay a higher risk for fibromyalgia if it runs in your family

Stress-

Emotional or physical stresses have been known to aggravate or cause this condition

Age-

Women have been found to be at a higher risk


Symptoms of Fibromyalgia:


The symptoms may vary from individual to individual but, following are some of the commonest symptoms-

Fatigue-

One of the commonest symptom is fatigue

Pain-

Pain that lasts > 3 months and widespread pain at several sites in the body

Sleep disturbances-

 You could have sleep disturbances or non restorative sleep (sleeping for long but not feeling rested)

Reduced exercise tolerance and morning stiffness.


Other symptoms include trouble with concentration/memory. It is also called ‘fibro fog’ or ‘brain fog’. Headaches and depression are also common. It is common to have fluctuations in the symptoms. You may experience pain that may range from a mild discomfort/ache to an unbearable pain.

Although it may mimic more like an arthritis/ bone related pain, it actually comes from the soft tissues. Fibromyalgia can start at any age. However, mostly it is by early to middle adulthood that people start feeling it.


Diagnosis:


Your doctor will take a detailed history to understand all of your symptoms. There is no definitive test to diagnose this condition. However, the doctors may prescribe you to do other tests like blood work or X-rays to rule out other conditions that show similar symptoms.


How do you treat it?

Drugs-

The treatment is usually focused on relieving the symptoms. For instance, your doctor may prescribe muscle relaxants, pain killers, anti-depressants or sleep medications,

Acupuncture-

To help relieve pain

Acupuncture: Neck pain

Fibromyalgia. Acupuncture

Cognitive Behavior Therapy-

Cognitive Behavior Therapy can help to reduce stress. Can be individual or group therapy.

Nutrition-

A healthy balanced diet is good because it helps to keep your body healthy and keep the energy levels high. 

Massage therapy-

Helps in relaxing the muscles and relieve pain

Activity pacing-

There may be good and bad days in this condition. Thus, it is important to make sure you prioritize your activities for the day. This is helpful in order to reduce excessive fatigue.

Physiotherapy-

Physiotherapy can help to firstly, reduce your pain. Secondly, they can give guidance on modifying activities and finally, prescribe exercises. In addition, aerobic fitness and strengthening exercises  help in this condition.

Physiotherapy Treatment for Low back pain

Physiotherapy for fibromyalgia


How can we help?

Our physiotherapists will take a detailed history followed by a thorough evaluation of all your symptoms and problem areas. Then, they will formulate and discuss a treatment plan for you. Also, we have massage therapists and therapists who do acupuncture. Thus, if you are having fibromyalgia or know anyone who needs help with the same, contact us today at PhysioNow!

Concussion, Custom Knee Brace, Custom orthotics, Etobicoke Physiotherapy, Mechanical Diagnosis and Therapy, Pelvic Health, Physiotherapy Etobicoke, Vestibular Rehabilitation

Physiotherapy Etobicoke

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Physiotherapy Etobicoke

Physiotherapy Etobicoke

How do I know what physiotherapy clinic to choose?

Physiotherapy is an important health care service in  Mississauga, Etobicoke and Oakville.  Many people need physiotherapy treatment to help with their pain and recover from their injuries.  Physiotherapy can help improve the quality of life for many people of all ages.

What are the problems that people run into with choosing a clinic?

In large cities like Mississauga, Etobicoke and Oakville, there is a lot of demand for physiotherapy.  As a result, there has been an increased number of clinics.  However, the problem that a lot of people have is that there are too many different clinics to choose from.    Unfortunately, there are quite a few clinics that do not provide good service and care for their patients.  Therefore, it becomes a guessing game as to which ones are actually good.

Things to consider

As someone who has never had physiotherapy before, it’s really hard to know which clinic to choose.  Is it important that it’s close to your home?  Should you choose the one that your family doctor recommends?  Do you ask your family and friends?  What about just searching on google?  There are so many options out there.  However, like many things in our lives, you have to find a good fit between what you need and what the clinic has to offer.

What are some of the characteristics that patients look for in a physiotherapy clinic?

  • Physiotherapists who are properly licensed
  • Multi-disciplinary practice
    • The team includes other health care professionals who complement physiotherapy
    • Examples include massage therapists, kinesiologists, osteopaths
  • Clean and organized
  • Easily accessible location
  • Direct billing to extended health care providers
  • Extended hours available to accommodate patient schedules
  • Pleasant and friendly team to provide a positive patient experience
  • Positive online reviews
  • Community recognition
  • Positive reviews from family and friends

Why choose PhysioNow?

PhysioNow is a company that meets all these characteristics.  The company has been in business for over 15 years and has brought high quality services to the community.  We strive to go above and beyond to offer the best possible care for our patients.

What does PhysioNow Offer?

  • Registered Physiotherapists
    • Our physiotherapists are registered and in good standing with the College of Physiotherapists of Ontario
    • The team at PhysioNow is very experienced and able to work with a variety of different injuries, including motor vehicle accidents, workplace injuries and sports injuries
    • Our therapists also have extensive training in specialized areas of practice, including:
      • Concussion Rehabilitation
      • Vestibular Rehabilitation
      • Pelvic Health
      • Acupuncture
      • Mechanical Diagnosis and Therapy
      • Neurological Rehabilitation
      • Custom Knee Bracing
      • Custom Orthotics

Multidisciplinary Clinic 

      • All of our clinics are multi-disciplinary and offer both physiotherapy and massage therapy services to our patients
        • A lot of our patients see both our physiotherapists and massage therapists
        • These 2 health care services are complementary, and patients do well with their recovery when both services are incorporated into their treatment plan

Clean and Safe

        • Our clinics are also very clean and hygienic to make our patients feel safe and comfortable
        • We have taken extra Covid-19 precautions to meet all of the province guidelines
          • Firstly, we have installed plexiglass in our office space
          • Secondly, our beds and equipment are all sanitized after each patient
          • Additionally, we have our treatment rooms spread out so there is a safe distance between patients
          • Lastly, our on-site laundry allows us to keep our linens and towels fresh and clean
          • Our physiotherapy assistants do a wonderful job of keeping the clinic sanitized and organized

Easily Accessible  

        • All 4 locations are in easily accessible areas of Mississauga, Etobicoke and Oakville
          • They are close to major intersections and highways
          • All the locations also offer free onsite parking for our patients

Direct Billing  to Insurance Companies

        • PhysioNow also offers direct billing to most insurance companies
          • This is a very convenient service for patients because they do not have to worry about submitting their own claims
          • There are some exceptions depending on the insurance company and the patient’s specific policy
          • But for most patients, the insurance company will pay us directly and that saves the patient from having to pay out of pocket
          • Our staff can help with the details of a patient’s insurance plan

Convenient Hours

          • All the locations also offer convenient hours so that patients can make it work around their busy schedules
              • We have morning and evening hours available
              • The Mississauga locations also offer Saturday hours for those patients who are unable to attend during the week

Positive Patient Experience 

            • One of the biggest compliments we receive at PhysioNow is our commitment to providing a positive patient experience
              • All our staff members including administrators, physiotherapists, massage therapists and physiotherapy assistants are very friendly and outgoing
              • We all try to make every patient feel comfortable and enjoy their treatment experience

          • Positive Patient Reviews

            • All our clinics have great online reviews on Google
              • Our reviews are honest and from current and past patients
              • One of PhysioNow’s biggest source of referrals is through our existing patients who refer their friends and family
              • There is no higher compliment than someone referring their friend or family
              • It is a great sign of their trust in the care and services we provide

Community Recognition 

            • Since there are so many physiotherapy clinics across Mississauga, Etobicoke and Oakville, it is a special honour when there is community recognition
              • Specifically, our Etobicoke location was nominated for a 2019 GEM award
              • We were nominated by our patients who are residents of the Etobicoke-Lakeshore area
              • Unfortunately, we did not win the award, but it was an honour to be nominated and thought of so highly by our patients
              • In addition, our clinics have also been nominated for the Top Choice Awards for 2019 and 2020

Choose PhysioNow

All these wonderful aspects of our company have allowed us to succeed and grow over the last 15 years.  Therefore, we continue to work hard to make sure that we provide the best possible care for our patients.  As a result, our patients see results and finish their course of treatment feeling overall better and stronger.  In conclusion, PhysioNow ensures that our patients are able to get back to their life including home, work and play.

Call today to book your appointment at PhysioNow!

 

 

 

 

 

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Neck Pain Treatment

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Neck Pain Treatment

Neck Pain Treatment

Pain in your neck can happen for several different reason  . Neck Pain Treatment can help get you back on your feet quickly.  It can happen suddenly from an accident or fall.  Even sleeping in an awkward position can cause neck pain. Other times it can build up over several months or even years and gradually get worse. And sometimes, it may seem like there is no reason and you just wake up one day with neck pain.

Neck Pain Treatment:  Possible symptoms you may feel

  • The way you feel the pain can also vary depending on how the  injury happened.
  • Some neck injuries will have just pain as the symptom.
  • Other neck injuries will include pain but also have weakness and pins and needles as well.
  • Sometimes you will have pain that is just in the neck itself. In other cases, pain is felt more in the arms or hands.  When this happens,  you might not think that there is anything wrong with your neck at all.
  • Neck pain Treatment can be difficult mostly because it can be difficult to properly diagnose. It is important to find an experienced Registered physiotherapist to make sure that appropriate treatment is received.

See this link for possible causes of Neck Pain.

Neck pain Treatment options:

There can be a variety of treatment options that can be successful at managing neck pain.

  • Modalities such as heat and IFC/TENS can help with reducing pain temporarily.
  • Manual treatment techniques like soft tissue work and mobilizations help with improving mobility and reducing stiffness and tissue tension.
  • Doing the appropriate exercises will also help stretch and strengthen the affected areas.
  • Acupuncture is another modality that can help with reducing pain and improving stiffness.
  • Massage therapy is another treatment approach that can greatly alleviate pain and stiffness and help further the patient’s recovery.
  • Ultimately, there are a variety of treatment options available to treat neck pain. It is up the treating therapist and their expertise to determine the best treatment approach to correct the pain and achieve the patient’s goals.

Neck pain can be very painful  and really affect a your quality of life. It is important to seek help as soon as possible so that the pain and limitations can be addressed and recovery can be achieved quickly!

Call PhysioNow today to get started!

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Acupuncture: Neck pain

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Acupuncture: Neck pain

Acupuncture: Neck pain

Almost everyone will experience some sort of neck pain or stiffness during their lifetime. However, certain occupations appear to be predisposed to neck symptoms.  Acupuncture: Neck pain may be able to help.

Manual laborers, for instance, have more symptoms than office workers.  The type of work seems to affect the risk. A person’s age and a history of twisting and bending during work can also contribute.

Studies have shown acupuncture: Neck Pain to be effective in relieving certain types of neck pain.  This is especially true for neck pain  caused by whiplash. Some studies suggest acupuncture can treat degenerative neck disorders such as ankylosing spondylosis and cervical spondylosis.  In many cases, acupuncture: Neck pain has worked for patients whose conditions could not be solved using conventional approaches.

¬ Mechanism of action of Acupuncture: Neck pain

  • Release of opioid peptides.Opioids are naturally occurring chemicals in the brain that have apain killing effect. The release of these opioids plays a large role in the reduction of pain. There has been lots of evidence to show that acupuncture stimulates the central nervous system.  This causes the release of these pain killing chemicals.
  • Alteration in the secretion of neurotransmitters and neurohormones.Acupuncture is said to activate the hypothalamus and pituitary glands. This changes the release of these chemicals. These particular chemicals play a direct role in the feeling of pain. It also affects the activity of an organ . Evidence has shown that acupuncture alters this secretion in a manner that reduces pain.
  • Stimulation of electromagnetic points on the body. The 2,000 points of the body that acupuncture focuses on are thought to be special conductors of electromagnetic signals. Stimulation of these areas is believed to start the flow of endorphins—the body’s natural painkillers.¬ Indications for Acupuncture: Neck pain
    • Sudden Force/Automobile Accident
    • Degenerative Disc Disease
    • Overuse/Improper Use
    • Osteoporosis
    • Neck Strain
    • Degenerative Arthritis
    • Whiplash
    • Muscle Tension or Spasm
    • Bone Spur
    • Herniated or Protruding Disk
    • Pinched Nerve
    • Ligament/Muscle Tears
    • Cervical Spondylosis
    • Ankylosing Spondylosis

    ¬ Contraindications of Acupuncture: Neck pain

    There are very few situations where acupuncture is not advised:

    • When someone has a hemophilic condition
    • When a  patient is pregnant – certain acupuncture points and needle manipulations should not be used during pregnancy
    • If a patient has a severe psychotic condition or is under the influence of drugs or alcohol

    Check out this link for a bit more information about the use of Acupuncture: Neck pain.

    ¬ Types of application of Acupuncture: Neck pain

    • Basic needlingNeedles are inserted to a depth of 4–25 mm and left in place for a period of time (from a few seconds to many minutes). There are often 6–12 needles (and sometimes more) inserted at different acupoints at the same time. The sensation is often described as a tingling or dull ache at the entry point. Many people say they feel very relaxed or sleepy, and some report increased energy levels afterwards.
    • Electro acupuncture (EA)A tiny focused electric current is applied to the skin at the acupoints or can be applied to the needle itself.

    If you would like to meet with a Registered Physiotherapist that is trained to do Acupuncture: Neck Pain,   please call PhysioNow today! Our experienced physiotherapists would be happy to help !

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Peroneal tendinopathy

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Peroneal tendinopathy

Peroneal tendinopathy

Peroneal tendinopathy or peroneal tendonitis is characterized by an aching pain and swelling in the perineal tendons. These are located in the lower, outside portion of the ankle. A tendon is soft-tissue that attaches a muscle to a bone. The muscles involved in this condition are the 2 peroneal muscles in the lower leg, called the peroneus longus and the peroneus brevis.

Anatomy

?There are two peroneal tendons that run along the back of the fibula. The first is called the peroneus brevis. The term “brevis” implies short.  It is called this because it has a shorter muscle and starts lower in the leg. It then runs down around the back of the bone called the fibula on the outside of the leg and connects to the side of the foot.  The peroneus longus takes its name because it has a longer course. It starts higher on the leg and runs all the way underneath the foot to connect on the other side of the foot. Both tendons, however, share the major job of turning the ankle to the outside. The tendons are held in a groove behind the back of the fibula bone.

Causes of Peroneal Tendonitis

  • A sudden increase in weight bearing activities, particularly walking, running or jumping
  • Inadequate or unsupportive footwear
  • Muscle imbalances of the lower limb
    Poor lower limb biomechanics
  • Incomplete rehabilitation following an acute ankle injury, such as an ankle sprain

Symptoms of Peroneal Tendinopathy

  • Gradual worsening pain over the outside of the ankle
  • Pain during and/or after weight bearing activities
    Pain with turning the foot in and/or out
  • Instability around the ankle when weight bearing

Diagnosis

A full examination from a physiotherapist can be all thats needed to diagnose peroneal tendonitis
Patients with this condition usually experience pain behind the outside ankle during activities putting stress on the perineal tendons. Pain can also be noticed following these activities or following a rest period. This may be noticed especially upon waking in the morning. There may be swelling when the injury first happens. There will also be pain when testing resisted foot movements.  Stretches into various positions of the foot inversion, and resisted movements can cause pain behind the outside ankle.
Diagnosis may be confirmed with an MRI scan or ultrasound investigation
a diagnostic Ultrasound may be used for detecting all types of peroneal injuries.

What else could it be?:

Symptoms of peroneal tendinopathy mimic various other conditions of the ankle joint. So, before diagnosing peroneal tendinopathy we should rule out other possible injuries by doing the following tests:
Ankle Sprain: ligament testing by the Physiotherapist
Ankle fractures: special tests by the Physiotherapist
Os trigonum syndrome: MRI, physiotherapy testing
Chronical lateral ankle pain with other cause: MRI
Longitudinal peroneal tendon tear: MRI
Peroneal subluxation: ultrasonography, CT, MRI or peroneal tenography
Flexor Hallucis longus tendon injury

Physiotherapy rehabilitation

Treatment for peroneal tendonitis includes a program of stretching, strengthening, mobilisation and manipulation. It also includes proprioceptive exercises, icing, ankle bracing or k-taping during contact sports. If symptoms are severe, a cast or ROM boot immobilization may be worn for 10-20 days. After symptoms resolve, you will begin a progressive rehabilitation programme along with a gradual increase to full activity.

The use of a biomechanical ankle platform (BAPS), deep tissue friction massage, ultrasound electric stimulation can also be included in the physiotherapy
Also, shock wave therapy (ESWT), acupuncture is used to treat tendinopathy. But there is only limited evidence from studies for these treatments.
There is evidence for using manual therapy, specifically the lateral calcaneal glide.

If you have any further queries please call PhysioNow. Our experienced physiotherapists would be happy to help you. Call Today to get started 289-724-0448.!

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De Quervain’s Disease

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De Quervain’s Disease/ Texting thumb.

De Quervain's Disease

De Quervain’s Disease

De Quervain’s Disease or nowadays known as texting thumb is a painful inflammation of tendons in the thumb that extend to the wrist. The rubbing of the inflamed tendon against the canal it passes through causes pain at the base of the thumb and into the lower arm. It is commonly seen in females over 40 years of age.

Causes of De Quervain’s Disease

1. Simple strain injury to the tendon.
2. Repetitive motion injury. Workers who perform rapid repetitive activities involving pinching, grasping, pulling or pushing are at increased risk. Specific activities including intensive mousing, trackball use, and typing. Other activities including bowling, golf, fly-fishing, piano-playing, sewing, and knitting can also cause De Quervain’s Disease.
3. Frequent causes of De Quervain’s Disease include stresses such as lifting young children into car seats, lifting heavy grocery bags by the loops, and lifting gardening pots .
4. De Quervain’s Disease often occurs during and after pregnancy. Factors may include hormonal changes, fluid retention and more lifting.
5. Rheumatoid arthritis.

De Quervain's Disease

De Quervain’s Disease/ Texting Thumb

Onset and Symptoms of De Quervain’s Disease

Onset can be gradual or sudden. Pain is felt along the back of the thumb. There can be Pain directly over the thumb tendons, and pain may travel into the thumb or up the forearm. The bottom of the thumb or the side of the wrist might also be sore or swollen.
It may be hard and painful. Symptoms may get worse when the thumb is moved, particularly when pinching or grasping things. Some people also have swelling and pain on the side of the wrist at the base of the thumb. The back of the thumb and index finger may also feel numb. People might experience a funny sound like a squeak, crackle, snap, or creak when they move the wrist or thumb.
If the condition is not well addressed, the pain can spread up your forearm or down into your thumb.

How is De Quervain’s Disease diagnosed?

De Quervain’s Disease is diagnosed based on history and physical examination. X-rays, or ultrasound may be used to rule out other causes of pain.The Physiotherapist may use special tests to help diagnose De Quervain’s. More information can be found here.

Physiotherapy Treatment

Your Physiotherapist will likely recommend that you wear a specific wrist splint with a thumb spica for 4 to 6 weeks . PhysioNow carries these wrist splints in stock. You’ll also need to stop doing activities that worsen the condition.

Wrist brace with thumb spica

De Quervain’s Disease

The physiotherapist after a thorough assessment could choose different therapy approaches to help with the swelling, pain, and function.
These treatments may include Ultrasound, K-taping, acupuncture, and manual therapy. Other Physiotherapy treatments may include specific exercises focusing on range of motion, strength, and flexibility. These would be given for a safe and effective return back to function.

Recovery times vary depending on your age, general health, and how long you’ve had the symptoms.
If your disease has developed gradually, it’s often tougher to treat. So, it may take you longer to get relief. Your doctor may give you anti-inflammatory medication, or may inject the area with steroids to curb pain and swelling.

In our experience at PhysioNow, more than 99% of people with De Quervain’s Disease get better with Physiotherapy treatment provided. If however, you are one of the outliers, your doctor may recommend surgery. The operation would release the tendon’s tight covering so that the tendon could move smoothly. It’s an outpatient procedure, which means you go home afterward. Your doctor will recommend physiotherapy after surgery which includes an exercise program to strengthen your thumb and wrist.

If you or someone you know suffers from De Quervain’s Disease, please call us today. Our skilled Physiotherapists can Help!

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Trochantric bursitis

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Trochanteric bursitis

 

The Trochanteric Bursa is a fluid filled sac near the hip joint. It cushions between the bones and the muscle and acts as a shock absorber. Trochanteric bursitis is the inflammation of the bursa which is at the outside of the hip.

When this bursa is irritated it causes pain on the outside of the hip and thigh.  Sometimes you may feel the pain down to the knee on the same side.  Another symptom is pain which will stop you from lying on your painful side.  It will be painful when you press on a specific spot on the outside of the hip.  The pain gets worse when climbing stairs, getting up from a low chair getting out of a car.  Sitting with crossed legs hurts.  Both  walking and running may also cause increased pain.

Causes of Trochanteric Bursitis

  • Any direct Injury to the outside of the hip like falling, or bumping into an object.
  • Incorrect posture due to muscle imbalance
  • Leg length difference.
  • Stress of soft tissues surrounding the hip due to hip Osteoarthritis
  • Friction of the ITB (Ilio Tibial Band: a muscle along the side of the hip)
  • Overuse injuries like standing for long periods of time
  • Other diseases which affect the hip like Rheumatoid Arthritis
  • Previous surgeries around the hip
  • Very rarely infection of the bursa

Registered Physiotherapy Treatment

Your Registered Physiotherapist can help you to reduce the pain and inflammation.  They will use electrotherapy modalities, taping, or acupuncture.  They will give you  advice on activity limitations in the early stages.

Later the treatment is focussed towards increasing the flexibility and strength in the muscles.  Your Physiotherapist will  increase the hip joint range of movement and correct your hip joint mechanics.

Trochanteric bursitis

Trochanteric bursitisTrochanteric bursitis

Finally the focus is towards preventing it from happening again.

General Advice on prevention

Your Registered Physiotherapist will look at your posture, hip stability, and core strength.  They will look to see if you  need Orthotics to address any problems with your legs or feet.

 Tips for prevention of Trochanteric Bursitis:

  • Whenever you start a new activity, try to take it slow and build up your activity level gradually.
  • Start with  less force or resistance, less repetitions and progress gradually.
  • Avoid or modify repetitive activities if it is putting any stress on the hip joint
  • Your footwear should be comfortable
  • Maintain flexibility and strength in your lower extremity muscles
  • Improve your core muscle strength

If you or someone you know may have Trochanteric bursitis, call PhysioNow Today!  We would be happy to get you started on your treatment and back to enjoying all the things you love to do!

 

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Golfers elbow

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Golfers elbow

Golfers elbow

Golfers elbow is the overuse injury to the wrist flexor muscles. The muscles travel from the inside of the elbow leading to pain with resisted wrist flexion and resisted pronation of the forearm. The cause of the Golfers elbow is repeated wrist bending, improper lifting, throwing and swinging movements. People involved in racquet sports, using tools as screwdrivers and working on computers are usually affected.

Symptoms

Symptoms include pain and tenderness around the inside of the elbow. They often also include pain with making a fist, stiffness of the elbow, and a weakened grip with downward movement of the forearm. Pain typically gets worse with a tight fist and picking things up with the wrist in a bent position.

Check out this article for more information about Golfers elbow.
Diagnosis

The condition is usually diagnosed through special tests such as wrist flexion against resistance. Differential diagnosis from other conditions such as cervical radiculopathy, ulnar neuritis, strain of flexor-pronator muscles is usually done by the physiotherapist.

Management

Early management helps to prevent loss of grip strength and mobility of the elbow. Management includes physiotherapy treatment and in rare cases surgery depending upon the severity of the condition. Your Physiotherapist at PhysioNow will work to stretch the common flexors of the wrist, do deep friction massage to break the scar tissue, and mobilize your elbow joint or cervical spine if pain is referred from the neck. They will also plan grip strengthening exercises, do tapping and educate you regarding the precautions to help in quicker healing. This will help to prevent any recurrence of Golfer’s Elbow. In many instances, a golfer’s elbow brace is beneficial. We carry these braces at all PhysioNow locations. Lastly, Golfer's Elbow may also be beneficial as a treatment for Golfers elbow.

In addition, the use of Laser therapy,application of a ‘Hawk tool’ and cupping can be used to reduce pain and promote healing. Your physiotherapist will educate you regarding these physiotherapy treatment options. So, don’t wait, book your appointment at PhysioNow today to get started on your treatment!