Month: December 2023

Physical Therapy Clinic in West BloomfieldBlog2023December
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By manish 0 Comments Physical Therapy

5 Reasons You’ll Benefit From Seeing a Physical Therapist

This demand for pain-management drugs has caused the opioid crisis we’re all too familiar with today. Opioids are both dangerous and addictive when taken for extended periods of time or in large amounts. Because of this, many Americans are understandably looking for safer pain relief alternatives.

According to the American Academy of Pain Medicine, approximately 100 million Americans live with chronic pain. So, if you are living with chronic pain, or pain lasting three months or longer, you are not alone.

Unfortunately, that also means that the dependency on prescription medications is continuously growing. In the year 2013, doctors across the U.S. prescribed nearly a quarter of a billion opioid prescriptions – that’s roughly a bottle per person in the United States.

Physical therapy is a natural, safe, and non-invasive way to treat chronic pain. To learn more about how physical therapy can help you find relief, without the need for dangerous pain-management drugs, contact us�today.

The 5 benefits of physical therapy for chronic pain

Our physical therapists are mobility specialists who are ready to help you with your chronic pain symptoms. They will design a treatment plan that is tailored to your unique needs in order to give you with the most effective passive and active therapy treatments for your disease.

Physical therapy has numerous advantages; nevertheless, the following are the top five:

1. Better physical function

Participating in physical therapy is an engaging process that can inspire you to take a more active role in your pain management. Physical therapy sessions last anywhere from 30-60 minutes, allowing you to work closely with your therapist to achieve your goals. At the end of the day, physical therapy is the only natural, risk-free, and active method of pain relief, providing long-lasting effects.

2. A treatment plan catered to YOUR needs alone

In addition to passive treatments, your physical therapist will design an active exercise program for you that is tailored to your individual healing needs. Physical activity can dramatically reduce pain while also reducing swelling, enhancing range of motion, aiding healing, and boosting general strength and endurance.

3. Safe, conservative treatments.

Some common treatments that physical therapists provide include massage, ultrasound, joint mobilization, electrical nerve stimulation, and diathermy. These are all natural treatments that have a very low risk of side effects, especially when compared to other methods of pain relief, such as surgery and medication.

4. Treatments supported by credible medical professionals.

Rigorous study and strong research are just two of the many ways that the successes of physical therapy have been proven. These studies have provided credible evidence toward physical therapy treatments, illustrating how they can significantly reduce a vast number of pain-related conditions. The implementation of care backed by scientific research allows physical therapists to greatly improve their patient outcomes.

5. Relief that targets the source of the pain

Physical therapy’s success is due in part to the fact that it reaches the root of the problem rather than simply hiding it. Pills may be simpler to swallow for pain relief, but their effectiveness is fleeting. Many drugs’ effects only last 12 to 24 hours, so you’ll have to keep popping tablets if you want to keep feeling better. It essentially hides the discomfort while failing to address the underlying issue.

At your first consultation, your physical therapist will conduct a complete assessment to establish the source of your pain and the most effective treatment options. Physical therapy addresses the underlying cause of the problem in order to provide long-term relief, whereas medicine simply provides temporary relief.

Are you ready to discover the benefits of physical therapy?

There’s no guarantee when it comes to taking medication to quell the effects of a painful chronic condition. Physical therapy is a much safer bet if you’re looking for a healthy way to return to a life free of constant discomfort.

Are you living with pain? Are you looking for a natural way to treat your pain? If so, look no further. We can help you get the treatment you need so you can live a pain-free life, without the risks of opioids!

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By manish 0 Comments Back Pain, Physical Therapy

Is Your Posture Suffering? Physical Therapy Can Provide Improvements!

If you find yourself struggling to sit up straight on a daily basis, you most likely have an ongoing posture issue. It is common for back pain to develop as the result of poor posture. If your posture is not correct, it can cause stress on other parts of your body, resulting in pain, inflammation, or dysfunction. Fortunately, posture can be improved with the help of physical therapy.

According to a study, approximately 3% of all emergency room visits tend to be the result of back pain or injury. Back pain is the most commonly reported area of pain, which can cause significant limits to one’s daily life.

To learn more about how we can help improve your posture and relieve your back pain, contact our office today.

How did I develop poor posture?

When you hear the term “poor posture,” you might think of The Hunchback of Notre Dame, but not every case is this severe! In fact, poor posture isn’t something to be ashamed of. Few people have ideal posture, and the majority of people engage in terrible posture behaviors in some form. We get so caught up in whatever task we’re working on that we neglect to pay attention to how our bodies are positioned.

Perhaps you’re working on a project at work, it’s late at night, you’re exhausted, and you’re slouched sideways in your desk chair, one eye on the computer and the other on the clock. This isn’t your regular position, but you’re getting into the most efficient position for typing up the rest of that file and then zooming out the door.

Poor posture isn’t due to laziness or apathy; rather, it generally has something to do with a physical weakness within our bodies. We slouch, slump, hunch, and droop over when we get feel drained because our bodies literally get tired of holding us up.

Even if you exercise regularly, you may have a few weak muscles that are contributing to poor posture that you are unaware of. Your posture is influenced by the muscles in your shoulders, back, belly, buttocks, and pelvic floor. Your core will be affected if even one of these is weak, and your posture may suffer as a result.

Why does my posture affect my back?

If you are suffering from persistent back pain, there is a good chance it is due to your posture. Poor posture is one of the most common causes of back pain. Do you slouch at your desk? Do you lean forward when you’re reading your emails? Do you hunch over your keyboard? These are all things that people do subconsciously, without even realizing the toll it takes on the body.

Your posture affects how your body moves throughout the day, whether you’re sitting, standing, walking, jogging or jumping. Your posture may change depending on what you’re doing; for example, your posture may be great when you’re standing, but when you sit at a desk or lie down, your body begins to hunch and fold in ways it’s not supposed to.

Physical therapy can help you sit up straight!

Your physical therapist will create a treatment plan that is tailored to your needs. This will concentrate on reducing discomfort, increasing strength, and improving posture as rapidly as feasible. Treatment strategies may include focusing on mobility, balance, flexibility, or stability, depending on the type of your problem.

Our physical therapists are highly experienced and dedicated to helping patients relieve pain and improve their posture. When you arrive for your first appointment, your physical therapist will conduct a comprehensive exam to find out where your pain is originating and what the best treatments will be for relieving it.

Call us today for more information on Physical Therapy

Is your posture causing your back pain? Contact us today to find out. We’ll provide you with the treatment you need so you can get back to your pain-free life. Getting better doesn’t have to take years or even months, and fixing your posture can be quite easy when you’re guided by a skilled physical therapist. What are you waiting for? Schedule an appointment today!

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By manish 0 Comments Back and Neck Pain, Physical Therapy

Are You In Search of Safe, Effective Pain Relief For Your Back and Neck Pain?

There are many reasons why one may develop back or neck pain. Back and neck pain may range from mild to severe, and you may experience accompanying symptoms.

Neck pain is most commonly caused by muscle strains, which can develop due to a cervical herniated disc, cervical degenerative disc disease, or cervical osteoarthritis. Anything that causes the spine’s anatomy to change can result in back pain, such as lumbar disc herniation, lumbar degenerative disc disease, sacroiliac joint dysfunction, or osteoarthritis!

Luckily, physical therapy can help relieve back and neck pain and help you get back to living your everyday, pain-free life. If you’re searching for pain relief from a chronic back or neck pain condition, give Premier Therapy Center a call today to schedule an appointment. We will help ease your symptoms and teach you how to manage your pain without using harmful medications.

Common causes of back pain

You don’t have to be lifting something heavy to sustain a back injury. Several factors can contribute to back pain.

The source of the pain comes from injury or irritation of the muscles, joints (including the intervertebral discs and facet joints), nerves or surrounding ligaments, and other soft tissue.

Some of the contributing factors are often associated with back pain are:

  • Improper posture or prolonged positions (i.e., prolonged sitting)
  • Spinal muscle and tissue damage (i.e., lifting strains or trauma from accidents)
  • Limited hip, spine, and pelvis mobility
  • Limited muscle flexibility
  • Spinal/pelvic muscle weaknesses (aka “core” weakness)
  • Poor abdominal, pelvic and back muscle coordination (i.e., compensations due to injury)

Unfortunately, a lot of people don’t seek treatment when back pain arises. They might assume nothing—except for medication and rest—can solve their back pain problem, and this simply is not the case!

Common causes of neck pain

Neck pain is most commonly caused by an injury to the tissues or bone structures in the neck; however, certain degenerative conditions can also lead to neck pain.

Some common conditions that give you a pain in your neck include:

  • Muscle strains –The muscles in your neck can become strained by overuse. Even something as simple as sitting at your desk all day with your neck craned toward the computer screen can lead to a strain on your neck muscles.
  • Illnesses – Certain diseases and ailments can result in neck pain, such as rheumatoid arthritis and meningitis.
  • Nerve compression – If you have a herniated disc in your neck or narrowing of the foramen (space where the nerves exit the spine), the nerves that branch out from your spinal cord can become compressed. In some cases, nerve pain can even extend from the neck all the way down to the hands and fingers — a condition known as “radiculopathy.”
  • Injuries – Whiplash is one of the most common injuries that result in neck pain, typically sustained by an automobile or high-impact sports collision. This is known as a “strain” injury, causing the head to whip back and forth rapidly, thus affecting the soft tissues in the back of the neck.

What should I do if I have back or neck pains?

If you’re experiencing back or neck pain, it is important to consult with your primary doctor right away. He or she will most likely perform a physical exam and may want to take some x-rays or a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) test.

With an MRI, your doctor will be able to see your soft tissues, ligaments, tendons, and blood vessels, which can provide evidence of where your back or neck pain is stemming from. Once this is determined, your doctor will suggest a course of treatment, which will likely include physical therapy.

Back pain and neck pain can lead to a loss of productivity, and it is a common cause of disability. Because of this, it is important to seek the assistance of a medical professional immediately if you are suffering from back or neck pain.

How will physical therapy help my back or neck pain?

Physical therapy is an effective treatment for both back and neck pain. The goals and expected outcomes of these treatments include:

  1. Decreased pain and stiffness. By using passive treatments such as manual therapy, your physical therapist will help alleviate pain in the affected area and accelerate the healing process.
  2. Prevention of further issues. By learning proper body mechanics, you can avoid future injuries and prevent pain from recurring.
  3. Increased range of motion. Your physical therapist will implement flexibility exercises into your treatment plan, which will help increase the range of motion in your back and neck.
  4. Improved strength. Your physical therapist will create a specific exercise plan for your particular needs, which will aid in the strengthening of muscles in the affected area.
  5. Improved quality of life. Physical therapy can help you return to your normal routine much quicker, allowing for an overall improvement in quality of life.

Treatment plans are comprised of both passive and active methods. Passive treatments work to relieve pain, inflammation, and stiffness, while active treatments work to improve strength, flexibility, and function.

Common passive treatments for back and neck pain include ice and heat therapies, manual therapy, electrical stimulation, and ultrasound. Active treatments include targeted stretches and exercises that your physical therapist will prescribe.

Contact us today for relief!

Are you living with back or neck pain? If so, say goodbye today with the help of physical therapy. Contact us today to confirm your appointment and get started on the first steps toward pain relief.

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By manish 0 Comments Back Pain, Joint Stiffness and Pain, Natural Pain Relief

5 Tips For Increasing Energy and Decreasing Chronic Pain

You know how limiting pain can be if you live with it. Fortunately, you can reduce your discomfort while also raising your energy levels by making a few simple lifestyle modifications. When you combine these exercises with your physical therapy treatments, you may help yourself heal from discomfort and achieve the physical goals you’ve set for yourself.

To find out more about how we can help you increase your energy and decrease your pain, contact�Premier Therapy Center today!

How can I improve my energy levels and experience less discomfort?

1. Practice a nutritional diet.

The food you eat is what fuels you throughout the day. Certain foods can provide you with more energy, in addition to relieving the pain you feel. A few of these include:

  • Cherries. Cherries increase antioxidants, which can relieve pain and inflammation.
  • Ginger. The ginger plant has been known to relieve pain from migraines, as well as muscle aches and nausea. It is typically used as a spice and can be easily sprinkled into a meal.
  • Hot peppers. This spicy treat has been known to relieve arthritis pain. Even if you aren’t a fan of the spice, a serving as small as half a teaspoon could help bring some relief.
  • Salmon. Salmon provides omega-3 fatty acids, which help to relieve neck, back, and joint pain.

2. Relieve your stress.

While we are all aware of the psychological effects of stress, it can also increase physical pain. As a result, it’s critical to carry some stress-relieving tactics in your back pocket for when you need them.

A warm bath is an excellent technique to relieve tension while also soothing sore muscles and joints. Breathing exercises can also aid relaxation by soothing the mind and body. Taking two or three deep breaths and slowly releasing them through your nose is an easy technique.

3. Get a good night’s sleep.

Did you realize that you spend around a third of your life sleeping? As a result, it’s critical to make sure your mattress is the correct fit for you. Your sleeping mattress might have an impact on how your body feels when you’re awake. Because everyone sleeps differently, it’s best to pick a mattress that matches your sleeping style:

  • Soft mattress. Side sleepers generally benefit from a softer mattress, as it is easier on their sides.
  • Firm mattress. If you sleep on your back, a medium-to-firm mattress will help with those backaches.
  • Memory foam. If you toss and turn all night, or if you switch positions repeatedly, you may want to try out memory foam. It may help you stay in one place, as it forms to the shape of your body.

4. Boost your endorphins.

When you exercise, your body releases feel-good chemicals called endorphins, which act as natural pain relievers. It may seem difficult to exercise when you are experiencing aches and pains, but even light movement can provide much-needed relief.

You can also boost your endorphins by sniffing a soothing lavender scent, listening to your favorite music, or even eating chocolate. All around it’s a win/win!

5. Come in for your physical therapy treatments!

At our practice, we have several treatment methods that can help alleviate your pain and increase your energy. We will find where your pain is originating so we can address it at the root, providing you with long-lasting relief. Some common methods we employ for pain relief include:

  • Aquatic therapy. Water can stimulate nerves and provide resistance for exercise and strength training. It allows for easier movement, which can ease the stress on your body.
  • Ultrasound. Ultrasound produces sound waves that can assist in blocking pain signals to the brain.
  • Ice and heat therapies. Heat works to warm the muscles and tendons, making movement easier and less painful. Ice works to reduce inflammation, also providing soothing pain relief.
  • Massage therapy. A physical therapist is highly educated on painful areas of the body. Through massage, he or she can manipulate your painful muscles and joints, thus reducing inflammation and providing relief.

Call Premier Therapy Center today to schedule an appointment!

By implementing some of these tips into your daily life, you should notice a boost in energy, as well as a decrease in pain. If you’re living with a chronic condition, it’s a good idea to let our clinic know so that we can assist you with getting back up on your feet iwth the least amount of discomfort.

To get more help, don’t hesitate to contact our office today. We’ll help you achieve your physical goals so you can live the life you want!

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By manish 0 Comments Uncategorized

When To Seek A Physical Therapist For Sciatica Pain

While sciatica does not always require physical therapy treatments, it can help relieve your pain and speed up the healing process.

Did you know that the sciatic nerve is the longest nerve in the human body? It stretches from the lower back down to the legs, ending at the feet. People living with sciatica typically describe their discomfort as “shooting pains,” typically down one side of the body.

It can be hard to determine whether or not your symptoms are in need of a specialist’s intervention, but Premier Therapy Centres in West Bloomfield put together a list of the three most prominent We’ll you’re Don’t therapist’s for your condition.

If you’re struggling to live a normal, comfortable life as a result of sciatica, know that the solution to your pain is just a call away. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.

1. What you’re doing at home to manage pain stops working.

You might already be trying these basic home remedies to help alleviate some of your sciatica pain, but when using ice and heat compresses alternately, or sleeping with a pillow between your knees, for example, no longer relieves discomfort and stiffness… there’s a problem.

These are some commonly used at-home treatment methods for pain management, but they, unfortunately, do not always work. If your home treatments are having a little-to-no effect in reducing your pain and restricted motion, or if your symptoms persist for more than a week without improvement, you should seek the aid of a physical therapist. If your symptoms worsen, be sure to consult with your primary physician. Physical therapy can provide you with the treatment you need to alleviate your aches and pains.

2. You notice your pain getting worse instead of better.

The severity of pain you feel can change depending on how compressed your sciatic nerve becomes. The more compressed it is, the more painful it will be. Symptoms may include severe shooting pain, weakness or numbness on one side, or the inability to move your feet. If your sciatic nerve becomes compressed in the area that controls your bladder or bowel function, and you may lose control of those functions.

If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to consult with both your primary doctor and your physical therapist to discuss a treatment plan for easing your pain and getting you back to your normal function. Your doctor may also run a number of tests to rule out any other underlying conditions.

3. You suffered an injury that caused sciatica to form.

Your symptoms may worsen over time with moderate sciatica, or they may go away on their own. However, if your sciatica symptoms appear suddenly after an injury or trauma (such as a vehicle accident, sports injury, or a hard fall), you should see your doctor and physical therapist very away.

Because these symptoms are the result of a powerful impact surrounding the sciatic nerve, they are likely to be severe, and it is critical to assess the extent of the injury. Physical therapy will almost always be recommended by your primary physician, regardless of the course of treatment he or she advises.

Get a physical therapist’s help today

Are you experiencing pain from sciatica? If this is the case, physical therapy may be able to help you. Don’t hesitate to contact us�if you’re ready to get rid of your sciatica problems.

Targeted stretches and exercises will be used in physical therapy to help strengthen the muscles surrounding the sciatic nerve. Treatments may also focus on increasing range of motion and improving posture to reduce stress on the sciatic nerve and prevent pain from recurring.

We’ll provide you with an individualized treatment plan to help you get back to your normal life as quickly as possible!

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By manish 0 Comments Uncategorized

You Can Have a Quicker Recovery After Surgery With Pre-Hab!

Do you require surgical intervention? Do you work in a physically demanding job or participate in a physically demanding sport? Is it true that your muscles and joints are weaker than they once were? If you recognize yourself in any of these instances, preventative rehabilitation, sometimes known as “pre-hab,” may be beneficial.

Participating in pre-hab therapies has several advantages. It can help the body heal faster and avoid injuries, all while speeding up recovery time. Pre-hab can be divided into two categories: Pre-hab for injury prevention and pre-hab for surgical recovery are two different types of pre-hab.

Contact our office now to learn more about the numerous types of pre-hab and how it can help you!

Recovery doesn’t have to take months of your time…

Many people are afraid of the long recovery times that come with surgical operations. This is particularly true for people who have had total joint replacements. When faced with the prospect of spending time in a rehabilitation facility, many people put off joint replacement surgery because they are afraid of the long and arduous recovery ahead.

Pre-hab, fortunately, can considerably shorten recovery time. Did you know that participating in preventative rehabilitation can lower your chances of needing inpatient rehab by 73%? You will fulfill your physical milestones much faster after surgery if you are stronger before surgery, reducing your recovery period by days or even weeks.

For example, patients who undergo total knee replacement surgery are typically expected to walk 500-1,000 feet 24 hours after their procedure. This may sound like a difficult task; however, those who participate in pre-hab before their surgery are much more likely to meet this demand than those who do not.

Did you know you can prevent injuries with pre-hab as well?

Pre-hab is a great resource for those prone to injuries, or for those at risk of developing injuries. To figure out where your problem areas are, you will complete a thorough evaluation with your physical therapist�to determine what your treatment plan will consist of. These typically include a combination of exercises, stretches, and pain-relieving techniques that target areas where injuries are likely to occur.

Military personnel, for example, are more likely to suffer foot, knee, hip, and back problems as a result of the rigors of training and combat. Many of these injuries can be avoided with pre-hab, which teaches good posture, core strengthening exercises, and lifting techniques to keep service members strong and healthy. Firefighters, manufacturing workers, and other personnel in physically demanding jobs are in the same boat.

Both pro and amateur athletes can also benefit from pre-hab treatments. Their treatment will focus on targeting poor technique and doing conditioning exercises to correct it. Their physical therapists will also focus more on the areas of their body that are repeatedly stressed and overused by their sport, determining their likelihood of injury and creating a plan to reverse that likelihood.

Through strength and balance training, physical therapy treatments typically aim to increase mobility and pain alleviation. Pre-hab can help you enhance your physical talents while lowering your chance of injury in your activity or employment.

Patients receive the stretches, strengthening exercises, and pain-relieving treatments they need for a quick and pain-free recovery during pre-hab.

Schedule an appointment with us today

Are you looking to get started on your very own preventative rehabilitation plan? If so, don’t hesitate to schedule your initial appointment today.

We’ll figure out the best treatment for your specific needs, so we can aid you in your recovery and help you reach your physical goals. Contact us today to begin the first steps!

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By manish 0 Comments Uncategorized

Chronic joint pain can be debilitating. Find out how physical therapy can help relieve your aches and pains

Chronic joint pain can last for weeks and even months. Joints are the structures that form the connections between the bones. Joints provide support and assist you in movement. There are many different conditions that can cause chronic joint pain, including bursitis, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, sprains and strains. Joint pain can occur in any part of the body, but the knee, hip and shoulder are most common.

Physical Therapy for Joint Pain

A physical therapist�can work with you to strengthen the muscles that surround the joint, improve range of motion, stabilize the joint and relieve joint pain. Passive treatments by a physical therapist include cold therapy, heat therapy and hydrotherapy. Cold therapy decreases swelling and helps relieve pain. Heat therapy increases blood flow to the joints and promotes circulation. Hydrotherapy includes exercises in warm water to facilitate motion. Strengthening exercises increase the power of the muscles and can also help alleviate pain. Flexibility exercises help increase movement and restore the joints back to normal function. Depending on the cause of joint pain, a physical therapist may implement soft tissue mobilization or joint mobilization. Studies have supported that these types of manual therapy are beneficial for those suffering with joint pain.

Causes of Chronic Joint Pain

“Osteoarthritis and joint disorders rank among the most common conditions for visits to health care providers, according to a new Mayo Clinic Proceedings study. Osteoarthritis is a progressive joint disorder caused by gradual loss of cartilage. Cartilage loss results in the development of bony spurs and cysts at the surface and margins of the joints, which leads to inflammation, pain, stiffness, limited movement and possible deformity of the joint.” Osteoarthritis is a common cause of chronic joint pain.

Bursitis is a medical condition that affects the small, fluid-filled sacs. These sacs are known as bursae. They are the cushions of the joints. It often occurs from repetitive motion. The bursae becomes inflamed and causes joint pain. Bursitis often occurs in the elbow, shoulder and hip. Physical therapy strengthens the muscles in the affected area and eases the pain from bursitis.

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that affects joints in the hands, knees, feet, wrists, shoulders and ankles. Enzymes attack the body’s tissues and destroy the linings of the joints. The end result is stiffness, pain, swelling and reduced movement. Physical therapy can help ease the pain of rheumatoid arthritis and even slow the progression of this disease.

Chronic joint pain can also be due to psoriatic arthritis. This skin condition is characterized by joint swelling, stiffness and pain. The immune system attacks the joints in psoriatic arthritis. It often occurs in the finger and toe joints but can occur in the back and knees.

No matter what the cause of joint pain, physical therapy can help you manage the pain and increase joint function. A physical therapist will create an individualized treatment plan depending on the cause of your joint pain. Physical therapy has helped hundreds with chronic joint pain and can help you, too.

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By manish 0 Comments Opioids

Physical Therapy can help you ditch the pain meds!

Millions of individuals live with chronic pain. To cope with everything from back and joint pain to debilitating pain from accidents, many people have turned to pain medication. Whether prescription or over-the-counter, there are several drawbacks to relying on medication to relieve pain. Pain pills can sometimes interact with other medications, they can be addictive, and they ultimately only mask symptoms instead of treating them. Physical therapy is a good alternative to the long-term use of pain medication.

Why Choose Physical Therapy?

There are several reasons why physical therapy is a great alternative to relying on pain meds. One of the primary reasons to choose physical therapy is that it can treat the root causes and not just the symptoms of your pain. While pain medication may give you instant relief, it doesn’t last. You remain in an endless cycle of taking more and more medication. There is also the cost to consider. Years of prescription medication, even at a reasonable price, will likely add up to more than the cost of how much physical therapy you’ll need.

What Can Physical Therapy Do for Individuals Living with Pain?

While the thought of doing exercises, or almost any type of physical activity, may sound unpleasant to a person living with pain, the right kind of movement can be extremely helpful. Physical therapy targets the area of your pain and works on treating the condition instead of temporarily masking it. A physical therapy routine can improve your overall strength and endurance. It can also improve joint stability and increase joint and muscle flexibility. According to PT in Motion, physical therapy can even help rewire the brain to reduce chronic pain. There are several conditions that physical therapy can help.

  • Osteoarthritis Arthritis and Rheumatoid Arthritis
  • Chronic Headaches
  • Fibromyalgia
  • Neuropathic Pain Caused by Injuries
  • Stroke

What Treatment Options are Available?

A trained physical therapist can use a variety of treatment methods to reduce or completely eliminate your pain. Manual therapy, which is also known as bodywork, is one of the most commonly used and effective types of treatment available. Manual therapies can include massage and joint manipulation. There are several other specific techniques that a physical therapist may use to help alleviate pain.

  • Cold Laser Therapy�– Cold lasers overwhelm injured tissues with photons. This can stimulate the healing process in cells that are damaged. When the healing process begins, this naturally reduces the level of pain.
  • Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation�– This is also called TENS, and it involves low voltage currents that stimulate a painful area of the body. The electricity reaches the body through electrodes attached to various areas on the skin. This can increase endorphins, which naturally reduce pain.
  • Graded Motor Imagery�– This uses the brain’s neural connections to eliminate pain. The therapy includes visualizing movement and training the brain to overcome different types of pain.
  • Ultrasound�– Ultrasound works by using sound waves that generate heat. This ultimately promotes an increase in blood flow. Increased blood flow can promote healing in the affected areas.

While using pain medication for a short while may be effective, physical therapy is a much better option for long-term relief from pain. Contact Premier Therapy Centers and an experienced physical therapist can do a complete assessment on your current condition and create a customized therapy plan that’s right for you. You can start enjoying reduced pain in your life with the help of physical therapy!

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By manish 0 Comments Herniated Disc

Experiencing Back Pain? You Could Have a Herniated Disc.

Have you noticed that you’re experiencing pain when you bend over to put your shoes on, or pick something up? Is your back stiff, sore, or achy in the morning when you get out of bed? Do you notice a feeling of numbness in your arms or legs?

If you’re experiencing these symptoms, you might have a herniated disc. Call our physical therapy office today to learn more about how our skilled therapists can help you become pain free without the use of drugs or expensive surgeries.

What Is a Herniated Disc?

Between the 33 vertebral bones in your spine are small cushion-like structures called spinal discs. These discs improve mobility and shock absorption in the spinal colum n.According to ChoosePT, a herniated disc occurs when the disc between the bones of the spine is torn, and the gelatin-like core of the disc leaks.

Sometimes, the outer layer of a spinal disc, called the annulus fibrosus, tears. If this happens, the disc’s inner gel-like core, called the nucleus pulposus, can leak through this ruptured tissue. The now “herniated” disc can alter the adjacent joint mechanics and compress and irritate nearby spinal nerve roots. Herniated discs are often incorrectly called “slipped discs.” However, a disc doesn’t “slip” so much as it ruptures and encroaches onto the surrounding tissues.

Another related disc condition is called a “bulging disc.” In this case, the outer layer of a disc remains intact, but the inner gel-core still protrudes and presses out abnormally. This results in inflammation and pain in the corresponding area, and is also reason to visit a physical therapist!

Do I Have a Herniated Disc?

Herniated discs can occur anywhere in the spine, but they’re the most common in the neck (cervical spine) and lower back (lumbar spine).

The leading causes and risk factors for herniated discs include:

  • Trauma, such as a car accident or slip and fall
  • Male gender (men are two times as likely to be diagnosed with a herniated disc than women)
  • Poor posture
  • Getting older, especially ages 30-50 (discs tend to lose fluid and elasticity as we get older, and become more susceptible to damage)
  • Sedentary lifestyle, not getting enough exercise
  • Repetitive heavy lifting, bending, and/or twisting
  • Obesity
  • Smoking
  • Family history

Sometimes herniated discs present with no symptoms, however, when symptoms do occur, they can range from mild to severe and vary depending on where the herniated disc occurs. According to Mayoclinic, “most herniated disks occur in the lower back, although they can also occur in the neck. Signs and symptoms depend on where the disk is situated and whether the disk is pressing on a nerve. They usually affect one side of the body.” These can include:

  • Clumsiness, limping, or tripping due to a weakened hand or foot
  • Stiffness and reduced mobility in the spine
  • Pain, numbness, tingling, weakness, and/or abnormal reflexes in an arm or leg
  • Pain that worsens in the morning
  • Pain that worsens or moves further down an arm or leg (peripheralizes) when a person bends forward, coughs, sneezes, or sits for a long time
  • Pain that improves or moves up an arm or leg (centralizes) when a person extends their spine, lies on their stomach, or leans to one side

How Can Physical Therapy Relieve My Pain?

Research shows that except in extreme cases, conservative treatment like physical therapy is more effective at treating a herniated disc than surgery and pain medications.

At our clinic, our physical therapists can help you find relief by:

  • Diagnosing your condition: We conduct thorough physical examination tests and look into your medical history to diagnose a herniated disc and rule out other conditions
  • Treating your condition: Our initial treatment goals for your condition focus on relieving pain and inflammation, healing the injured disc, alleviating compressed nerves, and restoring normal mobility in your spine. Your physical therapist will use a variety of techniques including stretches, massages, joint mobilizations, therapeutic exercises, and modalities such as cold laser therapy and electrical stimulation.
  • Preventing recurring problems or injuries: Your therapist can not only diagnose and treat your pain condition. He or she can also teach you how to improve your posture and body mechanics, improve the strength and conditioning of your core, and enhance spinal health through healthy lifestyle changes(e.g., smoking cessation, increasing physical activity, improved nutrition, etc.) to ensure that you don’t find yourself off your game again due to a herniated disc.

Contact Us For Relief & More Information

At our clinic, it’s our ultimate goal to give you the proper diagnosis and treatment so that you feel better faster. We want to find and address the root cause of your disc herniation so you can avoid chronic pain and dysfunction. If you think your pain symptoms could be the result of a herniated disc, don’t waste any more time. Contact Premier Therapy Centers today for more information on our pain relieving physical therapy solutions.

Sources:

  1. Herniated disk. (2018, March 06). Retrieved from
  2. Bise, C. (2016, December 01). Herniated Disk. Retrieved July 9, 2019, from
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By manish 0 Comments Stretching

How Stretching Can Improve Your Life

Stretching Isn’t Only For Runners!

Stretching is an important part of your daily routine. If you don’t have a stretching regimen in place, you definitely need one! A good stretch is the perfect way to start your day no matter what age you are, or what your fitness level might be. According to the Mayo Clinic, “stretching can increase flexibility and improve your joints’ range of motion, helping you move more freely. And ensuring that you have equal flexibility on both sides might help protect you from injury.”

The benefits of stretching are never ending, but here are 8 reasons why you should start doing it today. If you don’t know where to start, contact our office so that a physical therapist can help!

Stretching Boosts Your Energy Levels

Stretching is the best thing you can do first thing when you wake up. A few great stretches paired with deep breathing exercises can give you the burst of energy you need to start your day off right! If you start feeling tired or sluggish at work, take a stretch break and get those energy levels back up.

You’ll Be More Flexible

Physical therapy helps with improving flexibility and range of motion. Having better flexibility provides a multitude of benefits. It can improve your physical performance and reduce your chance of injury. The more flexible you are, they less energy your body requires to carry out every day actions.

Reduced Stress Levels

Too much stress in your body can cause your muscles to tighten and contract, which can leave you feeling extremely tense. We all carry stress in our bodies differently, but stretching can release endorphins which can relax you, boost your mood, and reduce the amount of stress you feel overall.

Excited to start getting into a stretching routine? Great! If you don’t know where to start, that’s OK. We’re here to help you. Contact our office today to set up an appointment with a physical therapist.

Stretching Gets Your Blood Flowing

One of the main benefits of stretching is that it improves your blood circulation. Blood carries oxygen to your cells and makes you healthier overall by promoting cell growth, and keeping your organs functioning. Your heart rate is also lowered by stretching. This reduces strain on your heart and makes your blood pressure more consistent. Better blood circulation from stretching also cuts down on the soreness you feel after working out! It’s a win-win situation no matter how you look at it.

Stretches Cuts Down On Chances of Injury

If you work in an office job at a desk, you might think you have little to no chance of ever seriously getting injured, right? Wrong! Take this situation for example. You have to bend over and pick up a 20 pound box of office supplies. Hours after, you notice your back is still aching. You may have pulled or strained a muscle and ended up in physical therapy to recover. However, if you stick to a regular stretching regimen, this probably won’t happen to you.

Higher Stamina and Less Muscle Soreness

Stretching before and after a heavy workout is also a good idea if you want to improve the stamina of your muscles. When you stretch, it increases the blood flow and oxygen levels going to those sore muscles. This means that necessary nutrients will have a clear path to the muscles, which in turn reduces soreness after your workout. You’ll experience much less post-workout fatigue if you stretch, and increase the amount of time in the future that you’re able to work out before feeling tired.

Your Posture Will Improve

If you work a desk job, you’ll find yourself sitting a lot more than is healthy, and slouching as well. Stretching every day at work can help your posture by lengthening muscles in your back that tend to tighten up over the course of a work day. Focusing on your chest, shoulders, and lower back can help with keeping your spine aligned. Stretching regularly also relieves aches and pains that can cause you to want to slouch in the first place.

Cholesterol Improvements

If you struggle with lowering your cholesterol, here’s some more good news. Stretching regularly helps reduce cholesterol as long as you’re also eating a heart-healthy diet. This is especially important to avoid heath disease and other heart related conditions. Stretching has even been shown to reverse the effects of arteries hardening due to high levels of cholesterol.

Cholesterol Improvements

If you’re interested in learning more about how to start implementing a healthy stretching routine, contact Premier Therapy Centers today and set up a consultation. One of our licensed physical therapists will be able to discuss your needs, do an evaluation, and show you the best ways for you to stretch at home and stay limber!