Year: 2023

Physical Therapy Clinic in West BloomfieldBlog2023
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By manish 0 Comments Arthritis

Find Pain Relief From Arthritis Without Using Medication

Arthritis can come from pain in the ankles, knees, hands, elbows, or hips, and it can affect just about anyone! Sometimes it’s a pop in your knee as you descend a flight of stairs, or a painful crack in your fingers when you try to open a jar. No matter what pain symptom it may reveal itself through, one thing is for sure: arthritis does not discriminate, and it can affect anyone at any age.

If you are suffering from pain in your hands, joints, knees, or other areas of your body, it’s time to speak to a physical therapist to discuss drug-free strategies for managing arthritis pain.

Drug-Free Alternatives For Managing Arthritis Pain

According to the Arthritis Foundation, arthritis affects over 50 million people and is the leading cause of disability across America. Arthritis may result from a variety of factors, including genetics and lifestyle habits, and millions of people turn to medications for managing the pain. However, arthritic pain is susceptible to much more than just medications! Drug-free strategies to reduce arthritic pain relies on a person’s five senses to combat the effects of arthritis, including anxiety surrounding pain, reports the Arthritis Foundation.

While medication treatment may be available, those with arthritis can benefit immensely from the use of non-drug-related techniques for managing symptoms. Below are 6 things you can begin practicing to reduce your chances of developing arthritis, as well as decrease arthritis pain you might be experiencing already.

  1. Get outside more often! Sunlight helps our bodies metabolize vitamin D. This vitamin is responsible for the proper function of the immune system and bone health. Since arthritis involves the deterioration of the musculoskeletal system, getting enough vitamin D is crucial! Sunshine also triggers the release of serotonin in the brain, boosting mood and acting as a natural painkiller.
  2. Give yoga a try. Did you know there are a ton of non-traditional means of treating health conditions, including yoga and guided meditation? These are notable for improving arthritis pain. Yoga and meditation can help a person relax and reduce the sensation of pain.
  3. Eat a nutritious, anti-inflammatory diet. Changes to your diet may benefit your arthritic condition. As explained by the National Institutes of Health, treatment for rheumatoid arthritis combined with improved dietary choices increases the chances of remission.

    Eating a healthier diet also offers advantages in other areas. For example, foods rich in antioxidants, such as dark chocolate, may reduce your risk of developing cardiovascular disease and improve your overall mood as well. It also leads back to better management of pain.
  4. Maintain a healthy weight. Excess weight adds stress and burden on the body, and for those living with arthritis, extra weight results in more pain. Don’t jump into a hardcore work out just yet though! Any exercise regimen should be under the supervision of a primary care physician and trained experts, such as occupational and physical therapists.
  5. Keep your mind busy. Simply spending time doing something such as reading or looking at an old photo album that allows you to reconnect with happy memories can have a powerful effect on the mind and body. This provides a small escape from your everyday routine. Sometimes trying to take our minds off of the problem can lessen the intensity of our pain.
  6. Avoid injuries by working with a professional. Physical therapy takes a whole-body approach to understanding the exact motions of joints and how to move them without causing pain. Exercising daily is not enough to reverse arthritis, but it can certainly help slow down its progression while easing the painful symptoms. Your physical therapist can help you form a regular exercise routine which can help you lose some weight. This will ease the strain on your joints.

Why Choose Physical Therapy?

A physical therapist can teach you many kinds of stretches and exercises to target your specific areas of pain with your arthritis. You can also stop taking excessive amounts of medication if you decide to go down the physical therapy route, which is a huge bonus to your health and wallet!

Physical therapists are professionally trained to evaluate your condition and provide the correct exercises to meet your needs. Most of the exercises they will teach you can be done on your own at home as well, so you can continue treatment outside of appointments. You might even have some aquatic exercises! Working out in the water provides exercise that is non-impact and extremely calming to the joints. A physical therapist may recommend working out in a heated pool to help relieve pain in arthritic joints.

Discover the benefits of natural pain relief with us!

Arthritis affects the lives of more than 31 million Americans, and that statistic will double to more than 78 million by 2040, according to the Arthritis Foundation. Arthritis does not pick and choose certain ages or races to affect; all races, genders, and ages may develop arthritis. While medication treatment may help, it is far from the best option.

Stop treating your pain with NSAIDs and other possibly harmful medications. Take advantage of physical therapy instead, and request a consultation with one of our skilled therapists today. We’re here to help ease your pain, and we’re just a phone call away.

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By manish 0 Comments Back Pain, Physical Therapy

4 Ways Physical Therapy Can Relieve Your Back Pain

Do you find yourself struggling to play sports you love, walk, run, or even sit comfortably because of searing pain in your back? If so, you’re probably getting exhausted and feeling pretty miserable, but you’re hardly in this boat alone. It’s estimated that up to 80 percent of Americans have struggled, or will struggle, with this debilitating symptom.

For many people, the only thing worse than experiencing back pain itself is the possibility of having to undergo a major operation to relieve it. Thankfully, there are safe, effective, non-invasive options to help you stand up to your back pain. One of them is physical therapy. Contact us today and discover this form of relief for yourself!

What Is Back Pain?

Back pain is a specific kind of ache that can plague some people 24/7. Others only experience it now and then. Back pain can take many different forms. You might feel a dull ache, sharp or “electric” pain sensations, stabbing agony, or a burning feeling, depending on where your pain is located and what caused it. It can occur in your upper back, middle back, or lower back.

Even with all of these variations, back pain falls into one of two main categories:

  • Acute back pain – Acute back pain seemingly comes out of nowhere, attacking suddenly. It is associated with acute injuries, infections, or other sudden-onset conditions. Thankfully, acute back pain normally goes away on its own once the injury that caused it has healed itself, with or without the help of a physical therapist.
  • Chronic back pain – Unlike acute back pain, chronic back pain refuses to go away for good on its own. Any back pain that continues to bother you after 3 months can be considered chronic. You may experience bouts of pain interrupted by periods of relief, or you may suffer from unremitting pain. Regardless, those experiencing chronic back pain are more likely to need attention from a physical therapist.

What Caused My Back Pain?

Acute back pain can be caused by a ruptured ligament, muscle tear, infected tissue, violent disc herniation, or vertebral subluxation (a subtle kind of joint dislocation). The underlying cause is usually easy to determine, and as previously stated, this kind of pain typically dissipates after the injury heals.

Chronic back pain can be more puzzling, especially because it has so many different possible causes, such as:

  • Strain or arthritis in the facet joints, which connect and articulate the spinal vertebrae.
  • Age-related bulging discs, herniated discs, and spinal stenosis.
  • Obesity, which stresses the back muscles.
  • Repetitive motion strain due to uncomfortable workplace ergonomics or athletic overuse.
  • Chronic muscle strain due to alignment problems, poor posture or muscle weakness

No matter what your back pain condition might be, know that physical therapy can help.

Physical Therapy Can Help Ease Your Back Pain

Physical therapy could be just what you need to ease your back pain issues. Our physical therapist will conduct an initial evaluation that takes your spinal alignment, any obvious injuries, baseline back strength, range of motion, age, weight, workplace ergonomics, and other factors into consideration. This approach is very detailed and thorough, and allows your therapist to prescribe a specific physical therapy program to help you overcome your back pain without surgery.

Here are 4 ways your back may benefit from physical therapy:

  1. Stretches and other flexibility exercises can make back motions easier and less painful.
  2. Your therapist might make recommendations for ergonomic changes in your workplace, which can reduce awkward twisting, stooping, or stretching (all movements that can result in back injuries).
  3. Strength training and neuromuscular education to help you maintain a straighter, healthier back.
  4. Recommendations for changing how you play or train for your favorite sport, as a means of avoiding repetitive motion injuries or acute sports injuries.

Physical therapy is a specific type of treatment that targets the management of disabilities and injuries. A physical therapist is skilled at alleviating all kinds of pain, including back pain. Physical therapy encourages healing and is a great treatment option to restore range of motion and functional mobility. These types of therapists are trained and knowledgeable regarding conservative management techniques including the rehabilitation of patients with neurologic, cardiovascular, and orthopedic conditions.

Contact our office today for more information!

Living with pain of any sort is mentally and physically taxing for anyone. However, back pain can seriously hinder your ability to function normally. Here at our physical therapy clinic, we can implement your specific program alongside other safe, natural treatment methods from your chiropractor or family doctor. The first step, however, is yours to take. Pick up the phone today and give us a call to learn more about how we can help you conquer back pain once and for all!

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By manish 0 Comments Hip and Knee Pain

Physical Therapy Can Address These 6 Possible Causes of Your Hip & Knee Pain!

Have you noticed yourself limping or hobbling around your house? Have you accepted the fact that your once active lifestyle is no more? Are your hips and knees refusing to work the way they should without causing pain? Your quality of life has most likely dropped drastically if you’re nodding your head “yes” to any (or all!) of these questions. It’s time to get on the path to healing and finding relief. Physical therapy is a safe and effective approach that can not only ease your hip or knee pain but also improve the function of these critical weight-bearing joints. You can learn more by contacting our physical therapist today!

What Makes Hip & Knee Pain Develop?

Your hip and knee joints bear the entire weight of your upper body. Your knees must bear all of that weight plus the weight of the hips and thighs. At the same time, these joints must be able to flex so that you can walk, run, dance, sit, play sports, and perform other everyday tasks without losing your balance. It’s a major understatement to say your hips and knees have a huge job to do!

It’s not hard to understand how these demands can produce chronic hip or knee pain over time. Hip or knee pain can also come about quite suddenly (and intensely) in response to an acute injury. Read on to learn more about some of the more common causes of hip and knee pain.

Causes of Hip and Knee Pain

Hip and knee pain can be brought on by several problems. Some of these are related to musculoskeletal misalignment, poor posture, and/or excess weight; others occur as the result of natural aging or unhealthy sports/work habits.

The following list details conditions and problems that your hip or knee pain may stem from:

  • Tendinitis, or stretched ligaments
  • Bursitis, an inflammation of the friction-reducing sacs surround the joints
  • Infections
  • Traumatic injuries, such as dislocation of the joint
  • Postural/alignment issues that throw your body off balance, straining the knees or hips
  • Runner’s knee, an instability of the kneecap
  • Osteoarthritis, a painful inflammatory condition involving deteriorated joint cartilage

When you come to our office for your first appointment, our physical therapists will most likely be able to figure out the true cause of your hip or knee pain from its location. For example, pain along the inside of the hip is more likely to be caused by a problem with the bones or cartilage. Pain along the outer side is typically caused by a problem in the muscles, tendons or ligaments. One thing is for sure, you can’t know the true source of your pain until you let a professional take a look!

How Physical Therapy Can Help Relieve Your Pain

During your first appointment, your physical therapist will conduct a thorough examination to isolate the underlying cause of your hip or knee pain. He or she may ask you to tell them more about your medical history as well. You should also be prepared to explain your symptoms and any difficulties you’re having moving around.

From there, your physical therapist will recommend techniques to help you start feeling — and moving — more like you used to. They will probably show you several exercises that reduce the amount of weight being placed on your joints.Your therapy might even recommend swimming or aquatic therapy as a means of exercising the hips and knees without also forcing them to bear your full weight.

Physical therapy for hip or knee pain may also start with passive exercises.�These are exercises in which your therapist moves the afflicted joint for you to increase its pain-free range of motion.

There are tons of other kinds of exercises that physical therapy will introduce you to. Strengthening exercises help by reinforcing the muscles and connective tissues that serve the joint. Corrective exercises and neuromuscular re-education can help you maintain a straighter, more upright posture. Physical therapy also includes treatment options like ice and heat therapy, as well as ultrasound. Your therapist will be able to make suggestions for you based on their findings during your exam; no two treatment options are the same because everybody’s pain condition is different!

Contact Us For More Information

If you’re tired of waking up in pain every day, or struggling to do the things you once did with ease, it’s time to get help. Let the skilled therapists at our clinic help you to reclaim your pain-free mobility through our services. Contact our office today to schedule your appointment, and kiss hip and knee pain goodbye!

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By manish 0 Comments Joint Stiffness and Pain, Physical Therapy

How Physical Therapy Can Restore Mobility & Decrease Your Joint Pain!

You’ve Got Options For Joint Pain Relief.

Let’s face it, your joints just aren’t treating you the way they used to. You might be dealing with the aftermath of an injury that has made it hard for you to get around the way you’re used to. Or maybe you’re just suffering from age-related arthritis, and everything is starting to hurt! One thing is for sure, taking excessive amounts of over the counter painkillers and sitting around all day definitely isn’t doing you any favors. If you want to start enjoying your life again without being limited by joint pain, it’s time to get serious about looking for a natural solution…physical therapy.

What Makes Your Joints Hurt?

If you want to understand how physical therapy can help you with your joint pain, you need to know why those symptoms are even happening to you!

Joint stiffness and pain can be caused by a variety of problems, but take for instance, an acute sprain or strain. The joints, muscles, tendons or ligaments may be impaired, causing inflammation. This time of pain can be painful and render you totally inactive.

Soft tissue injuries don’t always happen because of an accident. They can also develop slowly over months or even years. You might notice that the pain also ebbs and flows depending on the time of day. Certain sports, jobs, hobbies can cause you to put excessive stress on certain joints over and over again, which could very well land you with a case of chronic tendinitis or bursitis!

Common Causes of Joint Pain

Can you believe that it’s possible to develop soft tissue pain from doing absolutely nothing? It’s strange, but true. Take for example, this condition called adhesive capsulitis, otherwise known as “frozen shoulder.” If you’ve had to wear a sling for a while, this is an uncomfortable condition you could end up having that can render your shoulder useless for quite some time.

Osteoarthritis, more commonly known as arthritis, is the most frequent condition that causes pain and stiffness. This condition can affect anyone at any age, but is most often found in older patients and stems from age-related deterioration of the cartilage between the bones in a joint. Osteoarthritis isn’t the only one to look out for though. Rheumatoid arthritis is another painful, damaging joint condition caused by autoimmune issues.

Types of Physical Therapy to Consider

There are so many ways to develop joint aches and pains; the list is never ending! Thankfully, there are also many different kinds of physical therapy that can address these symptoms, extend your range of motion, and ease your pain.

Our physical therapists will start by evaluating your condition carefully, examining your overall health and physical activities, as well how often you experience your symptoms. Proper examination of the joint and of your ability to move it can show your therapist exactly what the underlying problem is, and help them create a more customized treatment for you.

Certain types of physical therapy may be recommended to you. Here are a few:

  • Hydrotherapy: Hydrotherapy can supply beneficial exercise for people who are unable to bear all of their weight on their joints. Learning to do gentle exercises in the water allows the water to support part of your body weight. This is excellent therapy because it will allow you to move those joints and rebuild the corresponding joint tissues.
  • RICE: Nope, this isn’t a food! RICE stands for “Rest,” “Ice,” “Compression” and “Elevation.” Your physical therapist may recommend RICE to you to reduce pain and inflammation.
  • Joint mobilization techniques: Have you ever heard of a “wobble board?” They’re also known as balance boards. Working with these tools can help you improve your joint mobility, especially in your foot or ankle joints. You might also benefit from techniques that work to loosen and break up internal scar tissue, which can form over old injuries and cause chronic soreness and stiffness.
  • Stretching exercises:Did you know that injured muscles and connective tissues are capable of healing and returning to their previous length and range of motion? It’s possible with the help of stretching exercises. These exercises are also excellent for preventing arthritic joints from becoming more stiff over time. Workouts and on a bicycle or treadmill may be suggestions our physical therapists propose to you.

Make Your Appointment With One Of Our Physical Therapists

Kiss your days of dealing with joint pain goodbye. You don’t have to live this way! With the help of physical therapy, your life can drastically improve. So what are you waiting for? Contact our office today to set up your own consultation with one of our licensed physical therapists or visit us in West Bloomfield Township, MI. They’re eager to meet with you and start getting you back on the road to recovery.

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By manish 0 Comments Nutrition

Living in Constant Pain? Here Are 9 Ways Changing Up Your Diet Can Help!

Have you been living with constant chronic pain? If so, the pain might have become unbearable. Pain and inflammation are two health issues that affect much of the population in America. According to the National Institutes of Health, one in four Americans suffer from pain lasting longer than 24 hours.

Thankfully, there are ways for you to decrease the amount of discomfort you’re in. By simply switching up your eating habits for healthier alternatives, and seeing a physical therapist daily, you can dramatically reduce your pain symptoms. Read on to learn more about changing your diet, and how it can help reduce inflammation.

1. Eat more leafy greens in your diet!

Have you ever noticed how the colors of recommended fruits and vegetables create a rainbow? This “rainbow” of fruits and vegetables is excellent for heart health and boosted immunity. Eating colorful foods also fights inflammation. Leafy, green vegetables are sources of vitamin A, and adequate vitamin consumption is key to maintaining homeostasis. Also, the National Institutes of Health explains, leafy vegetables provide a protective effect against diabetes and cardiovascular health problems.

2. Make sure you’re eating fruit.

Fruits provide an excellent source of inflammation-fighting nutrients, reports Harvard Health Publishing. Bananas, strawberries, oranges, and other fruits are a great part of a nutritious diet. Enjoy sour foods? Sour cherries, while tart, make an excellent addition to a diet that seeks to reduce pain and inflammation as well. Furthermore, they can be used in dishes for any meal, including dessert. Natural sugars also help curb cravings for sweet treats which are normally made with granulated sugar. This kind of sugar is associated with inflammation, so try to limit your intake as much as possible.

3. Kick the carbs in your diet.

Unhealthy carbohydrates include all excessively processed starches. However, items with a higher starch content, such as wheat flour and whole-grain foods, are associated with improved health. Knowing how to properly prepare your food in an anti-inflammatory diet is important as well. You should not fry foods or order fried foods for take-out or when you go to a restaurant. Instead, choose foods that have been grilled, roasted, or steamed!

4. Don’t forget your omega-3s!

Omega-3s are most commonly found in seafood and nuts. The body uses these essential acids to form the building blocks of proteins and stimulate the immune system. Make sure that if you’re taking fish oil pills for omega-3 inflammation protection, you’re also adding more actual fish to your diet! The fish that have the highest Omega-3 fats are herring, salmon, trout, sardines, mackerel, and tuna. All of these may provide some pain relief when inflammation is the culprit.

5. Enjoy some coffee or tea.

The caffeine within a cup of coffee or tea also possesses antioxidant properties, reducing pain and inflammation. Don’t go overboard though, as too much caffeine may have an adverse effect on the body such as increased heart rate and shakiness. Avoid drinking caffeinated beverages in excess.

6. Eat some yogurt for breakfast, or in a smoothie!

The probiotics within yogurt restore the natural flora of the digestive tract, reducing pain from eating certain foods. If you enjoy frozen yogurt, there’s good news for you! Fro-yo can be a healthy alternative to ice cream and other sweet treats.

7. Try spices known for their antioxidant properties.

Did you know that spices such as sage, cinnamon, cardamom, and garlic possess antioxidant properties? Antioxidants help your body by eliminating unbound hydrogen atoms, (also known as free radicals) within tissues. When free radicals come into contact with healthy tissue, they produce an inflammatory response. It’s kind of like magic!

8. Love chocolate? Try dark.

Many chocolate lovers enjoy milk chocolate treats above all else. However, according to MoveForwardPT, dark chocolate can reduce your risk for heart disease, mental decline, diabetes, and blood pressure. These health conditions affect the risk for chronic inflammation and pain, so increasing dark chocolate in the diet may lead to better management of pain overall!

9. Watch what you’re drinking.

Food is not the only culprit when it comes to pain and inflammation – even what you drink plays a huge part! Sodas contain lots of unhealthy preservatives such as sodium benzoate, not to mention high amounts of sugar. Excessive alcohol drinking should also be avoided as it can cause issues with inflammation as well.

Get additional diet assistance with physical therapy!

It’s obvious that no one wants to live an uncomfortable life because of pain and inflammation. These issues affect millions of people, however, taking the right approach to managing these conditions can make all the difference. What are you waiting for? Make an active change in your life today. Discover how the right combination of diet and physical therapy can reduce inflammation by contacting our office in West Bloomfield Township, MI.

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By manish 0 Comments Aches & pains

Looking For a New Treatment Method for All of Your Aches and Pains? Try Physical Therapy.

It’s no secret that the older we get, the more our bodies experience random aches and pains. A long, tough day at work, an evening spent rough-housing outside with the kids, an unexpected injury — any one of these could cause random pains that never seem to leave you alone!

As we age, our bodies have a harder time hearing and coping with injuries. Something that might have only taken you a couple days to bounce back from as a kid or teenager might now take weeks (or months) to recover from once you’re over the age of 40. That can be a scary, intimidating thought.

Although many people turn to pain medication to cope with their age-related discomfort, this isn’t the only option, and it’s also far from being the best! There are tons of drawbacks to relying solely on medication to manage your pain. Medications don’t provide solutions, they’re more like bandaids we slap on top of our pain symptoms. Not to mention, many forms of pain medication are highly addictive and can harm your health over time.

This is why the best treatment method for solving your aches and pains is physical therapy. Contact our office today to learn more about the benefits of physical therapy and how treatment can help you as you age.

Physical Therapy Can Relieve Your Pain

According to ChoosePT, 116 million Americans have chronic pain each year. Physical therapy is an inclusive, comprehensive treatment method that is safe and noninvasive. It’s specialized to address your acute or chronic pain, wherever it might be occurring in your body. By working with a licensed, trained physical therapist, you’ll be able to find out a true diagnosis for your pain rather than only have your symptoms treated.

Physical therapists use several treatment methods, as well as combinations of stretching, massage techniques, and chiropractic adjustments that are successful in targeting pain sources. The goal is to reduce the frequency and severity of discomfort you’re experiencing. As you work with your physical therapist to overcome your chronic pain condition, he or she might also give you stretches and exercises to continue doing at home on your own for extra relief.

What Kinds of Physical Therapy Methods Are There?

There are several different techniques your physical therapist might use to provide effective pain relief. These include, but are not limited to, the following methods:

  • Hot & Cold Therapy: Different types of pain will benefit from different ratios of hot versus cold therapeutic support, and you should always consult with your physical therapist for specific guidelines. Your therapist might instruct you to use a hot compress or an ice pack, to help alleviate pain as a result of fatigue and overuse. Taking warm or cold baths can also be helpful for this purpose.
  • Acupressure: Acupressure and acupuncture are two words that often get mixed up when it comes to treatment! Acupressure is a physical therapy technique that can actually be done at home with simple supplies. Foam rollers with pressure points are a great example of at-home acupressure care. Talk to your physical therapist about obtaining the proper supplies to do this at home.
  • Yoga & Regular Stretching: Engaging in a regular yoga routine or spending time everyday stretching can help to alleviate tension and pain. As part of your physical therapy treatment, your therapist will guide you through basic stretches and exercises that can help to alleviate pain. He or she will also provide you with guidelines regarding practicing those activities at home, which will allow you to keep making progress even when you’re not in the clinic.
  • Dry Needling: Dry needling is a technique physical therapists might use (depending on state laws) for the treatment of pain and movement impairments. This technique uses a needle without medication or injection and inserts it through the skin into areas of the muscle. This provides relief from discomfort and pain.
  • Manual Therapy: Manual therapy is just one of many forms of therapy a physical therapist can tap into in order to mobilize soft tissues and joints. This particular form of treatment assists with reducing inflammation, decreasing restriction, and increasing your range of motion through soft tissue massage, mobilization, and manual traction.

Ready To Experience True Pain Relief?

It is essential to rest, avoiding unnecessary pressure on your injured body part, and stay hydrated when you have an injury. This is how your body can begin the healing process. However, if your pain is lasting for longer than a few weeks without relief, or if it comes and goes in waves, it’s time to see a therapist. For support in overcoming your aches and pains, contact your physical therapy office in West Bloomfield Township, MI to set up a consultation. We’re happy to see you and help you get on the path to recovery.

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By manish 0 Comments Health and Wellness, Physical Therapy

Why You Should Choose Physical Therapy Over Prescription Medication

Medication Can Be Expensive….And Addicting.

Do you suffer from acute or chronic pain that makes it hard for you to get the things done every day that you need to do? Have you found yourself panicking when you run out of your prescription medication because otherwise, you have no way to manage your discomfort levels?

Many people struggling with pain make the mistake of leaning on prescription medication for relief, but drugs only mask the symptoms. They don’t target or correct the source of the pain. Thankfully, there is something that has been proven to work: physical therapy.

Physical therapy is a totally natural, effective, and safe treatment that works to relieve pain and restore mobility. You don’t have to say no to the things you love for fear you’ll injure yourself. If you’re struggling with acute or chronic pain, be sure to give our office a call today and learn how physical therapy can get you back on the path to a pain-free, drug-free lifestyle.

Over The Counter Meds Won’t Take The Pain Away Forever

A common option many people choose when suffering with pain symptoms is taking painkillers. It seems like a good solution in the short-term, but it really isn’t. These pills only bring relief in the short term and do nothing for reversing or fixing the true issues you’re having with your pain.

Over-the-counter medications such as acetaminophen, ibuprofen, and aspirin all come with various side effects. For instance, consistently taking aspirin and acetaminophen can cause internal bleeding, and in some cases even kidney damage. Ibuprofen can cause stomach and kidney issues as well.

…And Neither Will Opioids

Prescription opioids such as oxycodone, morphine, and codeine aren’t better options. According to the National Institute of Health, “Opioid pain relievers are generally safe when taken for a short time and as prescribed by a doctor, but because they produce euphoria in addition to pain relief, they can be misused (taken in a different way or in a larger quantity than prescribed, or taken without a doctor’s prescription). Regular use—even as prescribed by a doctor—can lead to dependence and, when misused, opioid pain relievers can lead to addiction, overdose incidents, and deaths.”

In addition, the side effects of opioids aren’t much better than those of over-the-counter medications. Respiratory issues, depression, anxiety, and nausea are just a handful of side effects one might experience when taking them. Relying on pain medication not only masks your pain and symptoms, but can also create new problems for you.

Here’s How Physical Therapy Can Help Instead

Exercising isn’t everyone’s favorite thing to do. Sometimes the mere thought of exercising stresses us out! Being active can be something you dread if all you want to do is lie around and watch TV all day, but in reality, getting daily exercise is one of the most effective ways to treat chronic pain.

By adopting a healthy physical therapy routine, you will quickly realize how great exercise can be for all kinds of chronic musculoskeletal and neurological conditions.

Physical therapy is a natural, non-invasive treatment option for a variety of root causes of chronic pain, including:

  • Neuropathic pain
  • Disc degeneration disease
  • Disc herniation
  • Chronic headaches
  • Fibromyalgia
  • Arthritis

Your physical therapist will be able to offer you a variation of treatment options to ease your pain. Massage therapy, manual therapy, movement therapy, cold laser therapy, and microcurrent stimulation are just a few. The manipulation of joints and bones is a common method that physical therapists often utilize, and all of these treatments aim to help reduce pain and inflammation, and speed up the healing process.

What Does A Physical Therapist Do?

Seeking treatment from a physical therapist can drastically reduce your recovery time after an injury. This is because physical therapists treat a person’s entire body by finding the true source of the pain. A physical therapist can perform an examination to decide where the pain is coming from, and from there, create a customized treatment plan designed to target and eliminate the pain source.

Different Kinds of Treatment For Different Conditions

Physical therapy includes both passive and active treatment. Passive physical therapy treatment may include massage therapy, ultrasound, heat therapy, electric stimulation and cold therapy. Active treatment might consist of exercises, motions, stretching and aquatic therapy. Your treatment plan will be catered to you and your specific needs. You can go into your initial consultation with a physical therapist feeling confident that they will be able to find the root of your pain, and get you set up for recovery.

Make An Appointment Today

If you’re in pain, there is an effective solution other than pain meds or surgery. Contact our office today to learn how our physical therapists can help you live a pain-free lifestyle. All of our physical therapists are seasoned and certified. Our goal is to get you back in the game, on the road to recovery and to help you live life to its fullest.

By manish 0 Comments Health and Wellness, Physical Therapy

5 Reasons Physical Therapy Is An Excellent Treatment Option

You Don’t Have To Live In Pain Forever!

Is your everyday life being affected by acute or chronic pain? Are you struggling to recover from back pain, joint pain, or an injury caused by a car accident? Whatever condition you might be facing, our clinic doors are open. We encourage you to contact us today and schedule an appointment with a physical therapist.

Our physical therapists specialize in improving human movement and flexibility. We offer many non-invasive, natural, safe modalities and techniques to help our patients. Our goal is not only to treat your pain symptoms but to find the source of your pain and eliminate the issue once and for all.

Read these five ways working with a physical therapist can help you get your active, normal lifestyle back!

1. Your Physical Therapy Treatment Is Customizable

Choosing the physical therapy route means your plan of care and recovery will be completely customized to fit your needs. The main objectives of any physical therapy care plan is to address a patient’s physical goals, pinpoint and treat the pain source, optimize the patient’s ability to function independently, and set him or her up for long-term success.

These outcomes can be achieved through the following kinds of physical therapy techniques:

  • Neuromuscular re-education, for example, balance training
  • Dry-needling, electrical stimulation, ultrasound, diathermy, orthotics and prosthetics, and kinesio taping
  • Therapeutic exercises
  • Manual therapy, such as joint mobilizations and massage therapy

Your physical therapist will conduct a thorough checkup and look at your medical history. Then you’ll receive an individualized treatment plan, and the healing can begin! Your plan is adapted to address your specific needs and ideal lifestyle. The success of the plan relies on your feedback throughout the treatment process, which gives you more control in your recovery.

2. You don’t have to worry about bad side effects with physical therapy.

Physical therapy techniques require less downtime, can be changed, and are safe for use on people of all ages. As opposed to solutions like medications and invasive procedures, physical therapy services have a very low risk of side effects while remaining highly effective for reducing soreness, inflammation, pain, and swelling. Physical therapy is also helpful with recovery in regards to injury, illness, and disease. Why opt for negative side effects of over-the-counter medications and opioid prescriptions when something much safer is available to you?

3. Physical therapy is a better option than opioids.

Did you know that the CDC actually recommends utilizing the benefits of physical therapy before even trying opioids for acute and chronic pain management? It’s a no brainer!

The current opioid abuse epidemic in our country suggests that these potentially harmful drugs are frequently overprescribed. According to the National Institute of Health, “Opioid pain relievers can be effective in treatment for relieving pain. However, regular use can lead to dependence, and misuse of opioid pain relievers can lead to addiction, overdose incidents and possibly, death.”

Treatment modalities used in physical therapy are also “evidence-based,” meaning they are tested in scientific research studies in order to ensure that they are effective and safe. Again, this just goes to show that there is little to no risk to start your physical therapy treatment.

4. A physical therapist can identify underlying problems contributing to your pain.

Your physical therapist’s ultimate goal is to identify and solve underlying issues contributing to your painful condition. These issues could very well be increasing your risk of chronic pain. A physical therapist won’t just mask your pain the way prescription medication will.

Common factors of underlying conditions include scar tissue, range of motion limitations, shortened muscles, impaired body mechanics and ergonomics, problems moving certain muscles, and improper posture.

If these kinds of issues go untreated, best case scenario, your pain relief will be short-term.

Through patient education services, exercise programs and other treatment techniques, your physical therapist can address the symptoms and causes of your condition, and get you back on track to leading a healthy, active lifestyle.

5 Your functional mobility, capacity and performance will improve with physical therapy.

Our physical therapy team can manage your injury and assess any underlying conditions now, as well as help prevent injury in the future.

Physical therapy can also improve your core stability, endurance, coordination, agility, and other physical skills that can better your athletic performance. This is vital for young people who are very active or involved in athletics, as well as elderly people trying to avoid age-related health problems.

It’s time to stop living in pain…

Are you ready to find some long-lasting relief and stop settling for constant discomfort and pain? Contact our office in West Bloomfield Township, MI today to schedule an appointment with a physical therapist. You don’t have to keep dealing with your pain alone, and there are so many more options for pain management out there!

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By manish 0 Comments Health and Wellness, Hip and Knee Pain, Physical Therapy

Physical Therapy Can Bring Relief From Hip and Knee Pain

You Don’t Have To Continue Suffering.

Are you struggling with debilitating or uncomfortable pain in your knees or hips? You’re not the only one. According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, knee pain is a common condition resulting in 19.4 million pain-related visits to a physician’s office each year!

The knees and hips are important, complex areas of the body. There are several tendons, joints, and muscles that are joined together in these parts of your body, and they help you to move in normal ways. However, if these areas are damaged at all, or if you’re feeling pain in them, it can become very difficult to do the things you normally do. Thankfully, physical therapy can help relieve knee and hip pain! Contact our office to learn more about how a trained physical therapist can help give you the long-lasting pain relief you deserve.

What Are Some Common Knee and Hip Conditions?

There are many kinds of conditions that can negatively affect the movement of your knees and hips. These issues occur because of traumatic injury, chronic disease, or repetitive motions you do with a job, sport, or hobby.

  • Tears in the meniscus – Unfortunately, meniscus tears are one of the more common knee injuries people experience. This injury causes swelling, stiffness, and varying degrees of pain. You’re also at a higher risk for receiving this energy if you’re engaging in aggressive pivoting and twisting of your legs. Athletes experience tears often because of this. A physical therapist can provide safe and effective treatment for a torn meniscus – without surgery!
  • Bursitis – Bursitis occurs when a small sac of fluid known as the “bursa” becomes painfully inflamed. This is brought on by overuse or repetitive injuries, similar to many other conditions. Bursitis can occur in a variety of locations in the body including the elbows, knees and hips. Physical therapy reduces pain with bursitis and helps with speedy recovery timelines.
  • Arthritis – Arthritis, or “osteoarthritis” is a condition where tissues around the joints become inflamed and irritated. i This condition can cause pain in a number of places all over your body, including your hands, knees, and hips. A physical therapist can teach you correct posture and proper movement techniques to protect your joints and prevent your arthritis from taking over your normal day to day activities.
  • Strains and sprains – Strains and sprains are common injuries, but come about in different ways. Strains happen when a muscle or tendon is overstretched or torn. A sprain is a stretched or torn ligament. Ligaments can even rupture, which results in bruising, limited mobility, and pain. A physical therapist can show you exercises to help you recover more quickly. They can also teach you ways to move in order to reduce further pain or injuries.

Physical Therapy Can Bring You Relief

Your pain might feel overwhelming, but no matter what condition you’re suffering from, a physical therapist can help relieve your pain. Your movement specialist will assess your condition, medical history, and pain levels to create a specialized program that meets your exact needs. Read on to learn more about treatment methods a physical therapist might use to reduce and relieve hip and knee pain.

  • Ice & Heat – A physical therapist may use ice packs to reduce swelling and inflammation. Heat is also commonly used during physical therapy to help increase mobility and reduce pain.
  • Manual Physical Therapy – Hands-on techniques are used often in physical therapy to reduce pain in your hips and knees. This could include stretching exercises or a variety of massage techniques.
  • Ultrasound Therapy – Ultrasound therapy can be used in physical therapy to provide soothing heat to deep tissues. A licensed physical therapist can also utilize ultrasound technology to easily identify specific areas of pain.
  • At-Home Exercises – Did you know you don’t always have to be in a clinical setting to do physical therapy exercises? It’s true! Physical therapy techniques can be incorporated into a home exercise program that can become part of your daily routine.
  • Laser Therapy – Laser therapy has become much more popular in physical therapy for pain management. It can help improve the growth and reproduction of cells, increase circulation, and also reduce inflammation.

Stop Living In Pain…Contact Us Today!

Your physical therapist can conduct a thorough examination of your body, pinpoint the areas in your hips and knees where you’re struggling with pain, and create a customized program to treat your particular condition.

Find out today how physical therapy can reduce or even eliminate your knee or hip pain. You deserve to get back to the activities you love without feeling as if your hips and knees will limit you. You can find relief with one of our highly experienced physical therapists, so what are you waiting for? Contact our office to schedule your one-on-one evaluation today, and get back on the road to recovery.

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By manish 0 Comments Back and Neck Pain, Health and Wellness, Physical Therapy

How Physical Therapy Can Relieve Herniated Disc Pain

Your Pain Ends Here.

Do you ever find yourself complaining of lower back pain that just won’t quit? You might have a herniated disc. Herniated discs can occur anywhere along the spine, but the lower back area is the spot most commonly affected. Back pain can be caused by tons of different medical conditions, but in many cases, it is the result of a herniated disc.

According to The National Institute of Health, “The highest prevalence [of herniated disc cases] is among people aged 30-50 years, with a male to female ratio of 2:1. There is little evidence to suggest that drug treatments are effective in treating herniated discs.” This is especially important because so many people try to lean on medication for relief, creating other health problems for themselves.

It is estimated that 60% to 80% of people will experience some type of lower back pain during their lifetime. There are many other names used in reference to a herniated disc, such as a “bulging disc” and “ruptured disc.” Regardless of the name, the treatment for this painful condition is the same, and physical therapy can help. Patients of all ages can receive relief and learn pain management techniques with regular visits to a physical therapist!

Why Do Herniated Discs Develop?

Spinal discs are work kind of like shock absorbers. They are soft and rubbery pads located between the bony vertebrae that help make up the spine. Spinal discs are made of a thick outer ring of cartilage and an inner gel-like material. They work to allow our backs to easily bend.

The spinal column also helps to protect the fragile nerves and your spinal cord. If the cartilage in your spinal disc is damaged or develops a defect, the gel-like substance can break through. This herniation will result in added pressure on the nerves. The result is intense pain in your lower back. Even small amounts of pressure on your spinal nerves can cause numbness, weakness, and pain.

Herniated Discs and Your Sciatic Nerve

If you happen to have a herniated disk, you can develop a condition called sciatica. Herniated discs in the lower back become as painful as they do because of the added pressure they apply to the sciatic nerve.

The sciatic nerve is made up of multiple spinal nerve branches traveling from the spine, down into the leg. If the sciatic nerve becomes pinched because of extra pressure, you will feel intense, uncomfortable pain radiating from the buttocks area, down along the back of the leg, and into the shin and foot.

The good news is physical therapy can work to reduce the pain caused by the condition! When you’re younger, your spinal discs are made up of almost 80 percent water. As you get older though, the water content lowers. This causes the discs to become less flexible, and increases the risk of tears or other issues.

Some of the other common reasons for herniated discs include:

  • Heavy lifting, or lifting things incorrectly
  • Impact sports
  • Excessive body weight or obesity
  • Traumatic injuries
  • Repetitive twisting movements (workplace or sport injuries)

How Do I Know If I Have a Herniated Disc?

Symptoms associated with a herniated disc may vary depending on where the injured disc is located on your spine.

Some of the more common symptoms you may experience include:

  • Weakness in the legs
  • Pain when bending or twisting
  • Pain that intensifies when sitting, coughing, sneezing, or bending
  • Burning, numbness, or tingling in the back, buttock, legs, and/or feet.

There is a solution to your problem that doesn’t involve expensive surgeries or addictive medications. If you think you may have a herniated disc or other back pain issues, physical therapy can help! We recommend scheduling a consultation with our physical therapist as soon as possible.

How Can Physical Therapy Reduce Pain From Herniated Discs?

Physical therapy is a totally safe, effective, non-invasive pain treatment option. It is designed to help patients of all ages heal from their injuries or age-related ailments. Our skilled physical therapist will use targeted therapy treatments to reduce and relieve back pain and inflammation, improve blood flow, and restore your range of motion.

Physical therapists are professionally trained to evaluate your condition and provide the correct exercises to meet your needs. Most of the exercises they will teach you can be done on your own at home as well, so you can continue treatment outside of appointments.

Come In & See Us Today!

Living with back pain is no easy task, but you don’t have to manage it on your own. Be sure to contact our office today to learn more about how our knowledgeable physical therapists can assess your current condition, and create a customized treatment plan specific to your needs. We’ll have you doing the things you love again, pain-free, in no time at all!