Temporomandibular Joint/Dysfunction (T.M.J. /T.M.D.)- The jaw joints are very inter-related with the neck, and with a dysfunction in one area we often see dysfunction in the other. This is a very complicated relationship, so a thorough evaluation of the jaw and the neck along with the upper back is required for appropriate treatment. This may include motion and stability exercises, gentle massage, postural corrections, education in sleep and ergonomic contributions to the problems.
Foot Pain
Bunion
It’s important to allow the first toe (great toe) to move through enough range of motion to maintain a normalize gait cycle. This will allow a patient to return to pain free walking and regular athletic activities. Great toe stiffness can change the way you walk and cause a lot of pain. This can change how the foot, ankle, knee, hip and back work. Bunions are often the result of a mechanical fault in the foot and it’s important to get a proper physical therapy evaluation of the foot and gait mechanics. Arch supports and orthotics can be helpful in preventing bunions and halting the progression of an existing bunion. Surgery may be needed to restore function and alleviate pain. Many times surgery on the top of the foot will cause adhesions and scarring which can limit range of motion and can cause pain. Many patients are referred to therapy post surgery for strengthening and to address range of motion limitations.
Oversupinators
Oversupinators tend to have rigid, high-arched feet. They may need orthotic devices to support the feet and provide shock absorption during walking, running and jumping activities.
Overpronators
This foot structure is commonly referred to as soft foot. Soft foot may lead to foot, knee, hip and back pain. When the foot pronates too far it allows the entire leg to roll in causing abnormal stresses to the knee, hip and back. Various exercises along with orthotic devises or shoe inserts may be beneficial in helping control the foot and alleviate associated pain. It’s imperative to get a comprehensive physical therapy biomechanical evaluation to determine if this is related to your symptoms so an appropriate individualized plan can be used to provide the quickest recovery possible.
Tarsal Tunnel
Tarsal Tunnel symptoms are similar to Carpal Tunnel Syndrome symptoms in the wrist and hand. Pressure on the tibial nerve results in pain and symptoms that can mimic planter fasciitis and heel pain. It’s important to get a comprehensive physical therapy biomechanical evaluation to determine the cause of your foot pain so an appropriate individualized plan can be used to provide the quickest recovery possible.
Fracture of the foot or ankle
Therapy is essential in retuning a patient quickly to their daily living as well as athletic actives. Restoring proper mobility of the various ankle bones as well as strengthening and balance control of the ankle is essential in preventing future injuries to the foot, knees, hip and back.
Achilles Tendonitis/Ruptures-The Achilles is the large tendon in the posterior ankle which connects the gastroc and soleus muscles to the heel bone. The tendon can become inflamed and irritated with overuse, falls, improper shoed wear, poor foot mechanics, or trauma. At CPTI, we focus on correcting the cause of the irritation as well as treating the
Hand Pain
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) - often begins with tingling, numbing of pain in the hand. If those symptoms appear and go untreated, permanent damage may result in the hand. Advanced symptoms of CTS include loss of grip, strength, clumsiness, dropping things, and muscle atrophy (shirking of muscle size). Simple tasks such tying shoes, or holding small objects can become more difficult and painful as the hands and fingers lose their ability to move. Early treatment is essential which can include work shit setup, posture, bracing, Massage if compression site, specific stretching and strengthening and use of modalities as needed.
Tendonitis- causes inflamed and sour tendons which usually occur when a muscle is overworked without time to rest. Symptoms include pain, swelling, tightness and weakness. Some common areas of tendonitis are in the hand and elbow injuies such as
- Dequervers -The outside of the thumb
- Tennis Elbow- The outside of your elbow
- Golfers Elbow- The inside of your elbow
It is important to address these symptoms early as the longer the symptoms persist the longer it takes for them to go away. Physical Therapy plays a big role in recovery by teaching proper use, stretching, bracing. Utilizing soft tissue mobilization and modalities also play a big part in the recovery.
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