Frequently Asked QuestionsWhat are the benefits of laser therapy?
Low Level Laser (also known as Cold Laser) has been around for 40 years. Rehab specialists in Europe, Asia & Canada began incorporating low-energy laser therapy into the treatment of patients with chronic wounds, musculoskeletal injuries and a myriad of painful condition with impressive results.Low Level Lasers hasten the inflammatory process through photostimulation which increases the energy available to the cell thus increasing cellular metabolism. Controlled studies have shown lasers decrease swelling, pain and speed up the healing of wounds. Contraindications for the use of low level laser is it's use over neoplastic tumors, the thyroid gland, the eyes, tattoos and the uterus of a pregnant woman. This treatment is available at Eberle's Physical Therapy, Inc.
What is Active Release Technique?
Active Release is an advanced soft tissue technique used to relieve pain and tissue tightness. It is used on muscle, tendon, ligament, nerve and connective tissue pathologies. Once the problem has been diagnosed, we utilize hands-on treatment along with patient motion to "free up" the problem areas. Most patients see immediate results ranging from decreased pain, increased flexibility, improved sensation and strength.What are two of the primary areas to focus on during the treatment of osteoporosis in as physical therapy clinic?
Strengthening of postural muscles is extremely important in preventing the postural changes that occur as osteoporosis progresses. Also, weight bearing activities, such as walking and dancing can help to keep bones stronger to prevent fractures.Is there a quick test to detemine if a person is at a high risk for a fall?
Yes. There are several. One simple test is the Romberg Stand. One should be able to stand with their eyes closes for 60 seconds without taking a step or reaching for support. If this test is abnormal, physical therapy can help ones balance. Call Eberle's Physical Therapy, Inc.for a free balance screen.What are the benefits of a well rounded exercise program?
Exercise not only strengthens our muscles, it has many other health benefits. A well rounded exercise program, including strengthening and aerobic activities, can reduce blood pressure and cholesterol levels, strengthen our bones and heart, improve circulation and flexibility and help us to achieve and maintain an appropriate weight.Does a person need to have a prescription to be treated by a physical therapist?
Only if the physical therapist had their Direct Access license. It also depends on the type of insurance you have. Medicare still requires a prescription from a physician but many insurance companies do not require a prescription if the physical therapist had their Direct Access license.What is Pilates and its key benefits?
The key benefits of Pilates: Increased circulation, improved lung capacity, improved strength in core abdominal muscles, improved body mass index, improved balance, poise, stability & flexibility, decreased stress & increased energy. Pilates also builds strength & control of your body. It consists of gentle movements with no jarring. It also enhances muscle control without tension and relieves pain & stiffness. Injury prevention & faster recovery from injury are other added benefits. Pilates is appropriate for anyone, regardless of age or fitness level & can be used throughout your daily activities.Are nursing mothers & mothers of young children at higher risk for back pain?
Yes. Breast feeding tends to place the mother in a slumped forward posture. To avoid this, prop the baby up on a pillow so the baby is higher. Also, carrying a baby on one side forces the back to be held in an awkward position. Minimize this strain by alternating which hip you prop the baby on and keep your abdominal muscles contracted.What is Sciatica?
Contrary to popular belief, sciatica is not a disorder in and of itself. Instead, sciatica is a symptom of another problem involving the sciatic nerve, which is the longest nerve in your body. Depending on the cause, the pain of acute sciatica usually radiates from your lower(lumbar) spine to your buttock and down the back of your leg. You may feel the discomfort anywhere along the nerve pathways. Other symptoms include: numbness or muscle weakness, and tingling or a pins - and - needles feeling. Sciatica frequently occurs when a nerve root in your lower back is compressed due to a herniated disk, stenosis, spondylolisthesis, or trauma. It can also be caused by a tightness in the pirifomis muscle which the sciatic nerve runs through or under.I was just diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthrits. What can I Expect?
Rheumatoid Arthritis is an autoimmune disorder which means your body attacks its own tissues. It's a chronic inflammatory condition which affects your joints as well as other body systems. It can affect your eyes, heart, spleen and nervous system. Initially, symptoms are often fatigue, weight loss, weakness and generalized aching and stiffness. Most common joints affected are the knuckles, wrists, knees and feet. Treatment is aimed at reducing the inflammatory response, using a wide variety of drugs from aspirin to gold salts. Physical Therapy is indicated to provide education in joint protection, range of motion exercises and gentle strengthening. Exercising in a warm pool is ideal for this.What is Fibromyalgia?
Fibromyalgia is a complex disorder characterized by widespread muscle aching and burning. Some people relate that they feel as if they have the flu all the time. This syndrome is associated with other disorders such as chronic fatigue, sleep disorder, irritable bowel syndrome, chronic headache, temporomandibular joint dysfunction and sensitivity to the environment. Fibromyalgia typically occurs among women of middle age, but it also occurs in men and other age groups. There are many theories as to the cause of Fibromyalgia, but no definitive answer can be found.Fibromyalgia is a self-limiting condition, meaning that it is not a terminal illness but a cluster of symptoms that requires daily management to allow the individual to function as normally as possible. It is possible to manage Fibromyalgia symptoms with a comprehensive treatment plan including Physical Therapy and a consistent exercise program.
What are trigger points?
A trigger point is simply a small contraction knot in muscle tissue. It affects the muscle by keeping it tight and weak. A trigger point keeps the muscle tight and often causes symptoms in adjacent joints. The constant muscle tension restricts blood flow thus causing accumulation of metabolic waste products and oxygen deprivation. This causes increased pain and muscle tightness. Trigger points often refer pain to other sites of the body, as well.Trigger points can cause headaches, neck and jaw pain, low back pain, dizziness, nausea and ear aches. Fibromyalgia may have it's beginnings with trigger points.
Trigger points are treated with massage, modalities such as ultrasound and electrical stimulation, exercise, injection and medication. Trigger points are often reoccurring, therefore patient education is essential in order to prevent their reoccurrence and enable the patient to self treat.
What are shin splints and what can I do to prevent them?
Shin splints is a collective term given to pain existing in the lower leg area. The pain may be due to a stress fracture of the bone, tendonitis or periostitis which is inflammation of the bone lining. To prevent shin splints you should stretch and strengthen the muscles in the lower leg, wear proper fitting running shoes with good shock absorbency and run on soft but firm terrain. It's advisable to gradually increase your distance and speed in order to prevent injury.Persistent pain or pain which is accompanied with numbness or tingling in the foot should be evaluated by a physician.
Can physical therapy help bulging disc or is surgery my only option?
Disc injuries may be referred to as a slipped disc, bulging disc, herniated or protruding disc. When a disc bulges, the gelatinous center pushes outward placing abnormal pressure against the spinal nerves. This can cause pain, numbness, tingling and weakness in the extremities. Disc injuries vary in degree ranging from a mild bulge to a complete herniation. Physical Therapy can be very beneficial, particularly during the early onset of symptoms. Physical Therapy can be very successful in treating disc problems and preventing surgery.Why and how would physical therapy help arthritis of the knees?
Physical Therapy can maximize range of motion and strength and decrease inflammation and pain and to allow you to return to your normal activities.Decreasing pain and inflammation in the knees is achieved by using modalities such as heat, ice, electrical stimulation, low level laser and ultrasound.
Increasing strength and range of motion is achieved by gentle stretching and weight training activities. Strengthening muscles above and below the knee joint help to keep joints stable and more comfortable.