Is A Painful Herniated Disc Throwing Off Your Routine? PT Could Help

Did you know the spine is made up of 24 bones? Five of such bones are found in the lower back. The spine also contains nerves and intervertebral discs in addition to these bones. Because the spine is such a complicated component of the body, discomfort might arise from time to time.

Pain, on the other hand, can sometimes be the result of an underlying problem, such as a herniated disc. One of the earliest signs of a herniated disc is lower back discomfort, which can range from mild to severe.

You might also have weakness, numbness in the legs, or severe and shooting sensations. Patients have also reported losing bladder control as a result of a herniated disc in certain extreme situations.

Herniated discs occur when the jelly-like nucleus protrudes from an intervertebral disc. This happens when the cell wall of the disc is not strong enough to keep the nucleus secure, therefore allowing it to push through the outer ring and begin to bulge.

A herniated disc can develop anywhere along the spine; however, they are most common in the lower back. If you are experiencing back pain and you think it may be caused by a herniated disc, contact GoodLife Physical Therapy office today to find out how we can help.

Signs you may have a herniated disc

If you believe you may be suffering from a herniated disc, it is important to consult your primary care physician first. Your doctor will perform a physical exam to assess muscle strength and sensation to see if your disc is herniated, and he or she may also conduct a neurological exam.

If your doctor believes your disc is herniated, a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan may be done to confirm the diagnosis. From this scan, your doctor will be able to clearly see if there is a herniated disc in the lower back region.

If the disc is putting pressure on the spine, it can be detected. Your doctor will then provide you with a treatment plan, and will likely recommend physical therapy for pain relief.

How does a herniated disc occur in the first place?

Herniated discs are typically associated with aging, as the spine begins to wear down and become more brittle. This is known as “disc degeneration.” The discs in the spine contain a high water content when we’re young, but as we age that water content gradually decreases. This causes the discs to shrink. Therefore, the older we get, the more prone we become to disc degeneration. Other risk factors that can make you more prone to herniated discs include:

  • Driving frequently.
  • Being overweight.
  • Being between the ages of 20-50.
  • Being male.
  • Engaging in improper lifting techniques.
  • Engaging in a sedentary lifestyle.

Physical therapy can provide much-needed relief

Your physical therapist will design a treatment plan that is tailored to your specific needs. This will begin with passive treatments such as manual therapy, traction, ice and heat therapies, ultrasound, electrical stimulation, or hydrotherapy to relieve pain and enhance function.

After your passive treatments are finished, active treatments will commence. This could include back-strengthening core exercises, stretching, and flexibility activities to improve range of motion, and any other muscle-strengthening exercises recommended by your physical therapist. In addition to these exercises, your physical therapist will advise you on any lifestyle modifications that he or she thinks may help you avoid future pain and injury.

Call our clinic today for help

Our physical therapy office is equipped with the best resources and methods for helping you recover and get back to your life. If you are looking for a natural, safe, and non-invasive way to treat your herniated discs, look no further. Call us today to get started on the first steps toward relief!

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Are You Taking Opioids for Your Arthritis Pain? You Need to Read This.

Arthritis is a general term that actually includes hundreds of different diseases. Whether you have osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or another type, one of the primary symptoms is inflammation and pain in the joints. Whatever type of arthritis you’re suffering from, you’re likely struggling to overcome varying degrees of pain. If you’re taking opioids for arthritis pain, you need to know there is a better option.

How Arthritis Affects Your Daily Life

If you’re struggling with osteoarthritis you are likely suffering from pain, stiffness, and limited flexibility. Rheumatoid arthritis may cause similar symptoms as well as affecting organs in the body. Psoriatic arthritis and gout are also types of arthritis that can cause varying levels of pain, inflammation, and limited mobility. Arthritis pain can affect even the simplest of daily activities. Doing laundry, cooking, and walking up and down stairs can prove difficult. The severity of pain can also change on a daily basis. It can become all too easy to rely on strong pain medication to cope with arthritis pain.

How Opioids Work

Opioids are a strong narcotic that works to numb pain. They have the ability to bind to the opioid receptors in the brain and limit the pain messages that are sent to the brain. Both oxycodone and morphine are considered opioids. While opioid medications can be beneficial when carefully used over short periods of time, they are not without serious drawbacks. They are highly addictive and often interact with other medications. In 2016 there were approximately 42,000 deaths related to opioid overdoses. If you’re currently taking some type of opioid for your arthritis pain, it’s important to know that there is a safer alternative that can reduce and even eliminate pain.

How Physical Therapy can Help

Physical therapy can be an effective alternative to taking opioids for arthritis pain. There are several specific ways that a physical therapist can help an individual struggling with arthritis pain.

  • Provide Manual Manipulation – A physical therapist can provide massage or use hot or cold therapy to ease arthritic pain. Massage can help improve circulation which can reduce joint pain.
  • Use TENS Therapy – TENS is Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation therapy. This type of physical therapy includes pulses of electricity used to target arthritis pain. A physical therapist  can place electrodes on the skin over the area of pain. Low amounts of electricity pass through to the joints. This can temporarily relieve arthritis pain.
  • Teach Exercises – A physical therapist can teach you exercises that will increase flexibility and strength. These exercises can also reduce the pain you experience when carrying out daily activities. According to the American Physical Therapy Association, research shows that individuals with arthritis can exercise without making pain worse.
  • Show How to Use Assistive Devices – During physical therapy treatment you can also learn how to correctly use devices such as braces, canes, or walkers.
  • Suggest Home Modifications – A physical therapist will be able to make suggestions for your home environment that can help ease arthritic pain. These might include mats to stand on in your kitchen, ergonomic chairs, or certain types of mattresses or bedding you can use.

If you’re struggling with arthritis pain, a trained physical therapist can work with you to increase your mobility while decreasing pain. Even if you’re already taking opioids an individualized physical therapy program may be able to help you reduce the amount of medication you’re currently taking. Contact a GoodLife Physical Therapy physical therapist to find out how you can reduce arthritis pain.

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Shrug Off Shoulder Pain With A Physical Therapist’s Help

Did you know that your shoulders are the most moveable and flexible joints in your body? They are made up of various muscles, tendons, and bones, and they’re pretty complicated. They are what allow you to move around and complete many of your responsibilities during the day. Your shoulders are capable of a great deal, but they are also highly vulnerable to injury.

If you’ve been suffering from shoulder pain, GoodLife Physical Therapy‘s physical therapy services in Homer Glen, IL can help you discover natural relief.

Contact our clinic today to discover more about how we can help you go back to your everyday life without shoulder pain!

Common causes of shoulder pain

Several underlying causes could result in shoulder pain. For example, a sudden injury or trauma to the shoulders can cause them to become painful. Repetitive motions can also cause shoulder pain, as your muscles, joints, and tendons are working in overdrive. Physical therapy can treat several specific conditions that may be contributing to the pain or discomfort that you are feeling in your shoulder. Some of the most common conditions resulting in shoulder pain include:

  • Bursitis. Bursitis is a joint inflammation that affects the fluid-filled sacs surrounding the bones, muscles, and tendons. It frequently happens in body parts that are subjected to repetitive activities. You may feel stiff or achy in the affected area, which may also become red or inflamed if you have bursitis. Physical therapy can help with the inflammation as well as the pain you’re experiencing.
  • Arthritis. Arthritis is a painful and stiffening joint disease. There are various forms of arthritis, but osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis are the most frequent. Osteoarthritis is a condition in which the cartilage between your bones breaks down, causing the bones to rub together. Swollen and inflamed joints characterize rheumatoid arthritis. Physical therapy can help with pain alleviation and movement for both of these diseases.
  • Tendonitis. Tendonitis occurs when a tendon becomes irritated or inflamed. It can appear in several parts of the body, and colloquial terms such as “tennis elbow,” “swimmer’s shoulder,” and “jumper’s knee” are usually used to describe it. A physical therapist can treat different types of tendonitis and relieve the inflamed area.
  • Frozen shoulder. Frozen shoulder is a painful ailment that develops after prolonged periods of immobility, such as being in a sling or cast following an injury. Over time, this condition will deteriorate, causing discomfort and stiffness. Physical therapy can help provide relief while you are recovering, and it usually corrects itself after several years. It may also aid in hastening the healing process.
  • Sprains and strains. When a ligament is stretched too far or damaged, it is called a sprain. When a muscle or tendon is stretched too far or torn, it is called a strain. Strains and sprains can cause chronic shoulder pain, making it difficult to exercise or perform regular duties. If the strain or sprain is minimal, it may be treated at home with ice and rest. Physical therapy is typically required for more severe strains and sprains.
  • Torn cartilage. When cartilage tears, you may experience several painful symptoms. You may experience decreased strength and a limited range of motion in the affected shoulder. You may also experience pain when moving your arm in specific ways. If you are suffering from torn cartilage, physical therapy can provide relief.

How can a physical therapist help get rid of my pain?

If you’re concerned about physical therapy’s safety, be assured that you’ll be in good hands. Physical treatment is risk-free, effective, and, most importantly, all-natural.

Physical therapy has two main goals: 1) to relieve your discomfort and 2) to increase your function. Throughout your physical therapy appointments, your physical therapist will work with you to ensure that both of these goals are met.

Your physical therapist will design a treatment plan specifically for you, which will include targeted stretches and exercises. It may also include any additional methods or modalities that your physical therapist deems fit, including ice and heat therapies, manual therapy, ultrasound, aquatic therapy, or electrical nerve stimulation.

Get rid of your shoulder pain today!

If you are living with shoulder pain, don’t let it limit your life any longer! There is a wide range of conditions that can be treated with the help of physical therapy. Find natural, safe, and effective relief today with PT treatments!

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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 GoodLife Physical Therapy 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 at GoodLife Physical Therapy 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

Is your posture causing your back pain? Contact GoodLife Physical Therapy 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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Are You Curious How Physical Therapy Can Improve Your Overall Wellness?

Everyone aspires to live a healthy, active, and powerful lifestyle – or they should, at least!

However, this type of lifestyle is not always simple to maintain, particularly for people who suffer from chronic pain. Physical therapy, fortunately, is an excellent resource for relieving pain and achieving fitness goals.

Give GoodLife Physical Therapy a call today if you want to start living a healthy lifestyle but aren’t sure where to begin. We’ll tailor a treatment plan to your specific needs so you can achieve your objectives using the most effective approaches.

The importance of leading a healthy lifestyle

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle takes effort, but it becomes a lot simpler once you get into the swing of things.

One of the simplest methods to boost your health is to eat nutritious foods (although we know those sweets are hard to kick.) Physical activity is the most difficult part to develop a habit of, especially if you are hampered by chronic pain.

Some people take anti-inflammatory or pain-relieving medicines to disguise their symptoms, while others give up on the idea of being active completely. Fortunately, with the help of a physical therapist, you may restore your pain-free, healthy lifestyle and resume your favorite hobbies!

Major benefits of seeing a physical therapist for improved health

Whatever your reason for obtaining physical therapy services, the goal remains the same. Perhaps you’re still dealing with the effects of an injury. You might be recovering from surgery and trying to regain your range of motion. Maybe your joints aren’t what they used to be, and you’re seeking a way to feel better. Whatever the case may be, physical therapists are committed to reducing your discomfort and restoring your physical health to its previous state.

A physical therapist is a movement specialist, educated in analyzing mobility issues with walking, running, jumping, bending, stretching, and almost every other form of physical activity. Your physical therapist can pinpoint problem areas and create a customized treatment plan aimed at improving those areas.

Through in-office sessions and at-home exercises, patients strengthen their muscles and joints, improve their balance, build endurance, and experience pain relief, all without the unwanted harmful risks of drugs or surgery.

What should I expect with physical therapy?

Pain alleviation, strengthening, and functional integration are the three main components of physical therapy. Some people fear physical therapy because they assume it may cause pain and be hard to take part in, however, this is usually not the case!

Physical therapy aims to relieve pain and build muscles, and your physical therapist will ensure that your treatment plan does not cause you any discomfort. This is accomplished using a variety of therapeutic options, including ice and heat therapy, stretching, bracing, and ultrasound.

Movement is also necessary for an active lifestyle. Your physical therapist will build a treatment plan for you based on particular movements that will improve your strength, flexibility, balance, and overall mobility. Many of these exercises will be assisted by him or her, but he or she will also supply some basic ones that you can do at home.

Physical therapy allows you to live the life you want, free of severe limits. This can only happen if you apply what you’ve learned in your therapy to the real world. Your physical therapist is just as committed as you are, and he or she will push you to achieve all of the goals you set out for yourself at the start.

Call our clinic today for help

Every patient is unique, and we recognize that at our clinic. That’s why we tailor each treatment plan to the individual needs of each patient. When you come in for your first visit, you’ll have some diagnostic tests done to help your physical therapist figure out where to start with treatments.

Your pain levels, balance, range of motion, and overall function will all be assessed throughout these examinations. In addition, your physical therapist will inquire about your medical history. Following the collection of all of this information, your physical therapist will develop a specific treatment plan to assist you in achieving your health goals.

If you are looking to improve your health, strength, and physical activity, look no further. We can help you get there – even if you’re dealing with pain. To get started on the path toward a healthier and happier lifestyle, call our office today to schedule your consultation!

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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 specialist intervention, but GoodLife Physical Therapy in Homer Glen, IL put together a list of the three most prominent symptoms 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, 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 the 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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What’s At The Root of Your Hip and Knee Pain?

Physical therapy could help you find the answer!

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.

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!

Thankfully, physical therapy can help relieve knee and hip pain! Call our office GoodLife Physical Therapy to learn more about how a trained physical therapist can help give you the long-o pain relief you deserve.

Common pain conditions affecting the knees and hips

The movement of your knees and hips might be hampered by a variety of problems. Traumatic injury, chronic disease, or repeated motions performed as part of a work, sport, or hobby can all create these problems.

  • Strains and sprains – Strains and sprains are common ailments that occur in a variety of ways. When a muscle or tendon is overstretched or ruptured, a strain occurs. A sprain occurs when a ligament is stretched or torn. Ligaments can even rupture, resulting in bruising, mobility restrictions, and pain.
    A physical therapist can demonstrate activities that will aid with your recovery. They can also teach you how to move in order to avoid further injury or suffering.
  • Bursitis – Bursitis is a painful inflammation of a tiny sac of fluid called the “bursa.” This, like many other conditions, is caused by overuse or repetitive injuries. Bursitis can affect the elbows, knees,, and hips, among other places on the body. Physical therapy can aid with bursitis pain relief and speed up recovery times.
  • Arthritis – Arthritis, also known as “osteoarthritis,” is a disease in which the tissues around the joints become inflamed and irritated. I This illness can cause discomfort in your hands, knees, and hips, among other sites on your body. A physical therapist can educate you how to maintain healthy posture and movement patterns to protect your joints and keep your arthritis from taking over your daily activities.
  • Tears in the meniscus – Meniscus tears are unfortunately one of the most common types of knee injury. Swelling, stiffness, and varied degrees of discomfort are all symptoms of this injury. If you’re doing a lot of hard pivoting and twisting with your legs, you’re more likely to get this energy. Athletes frequently cry as a result of this. Without surgery, a physical therapist can treat a torn meniscus in a safe and effective manner.

Finding true pain relief with physical therapy

Your discomfort may seem overwhelming, but a physical therapist can help you lessen it no matter what illness you’re living with!

Your mobility specialist will evaluate your health, medical history, and pain levels in order to design a customized program that matches your specific requirements. Continue reading to learn more about how a physical therapist can help you lessen 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.

Your battle with pain is over

Your physical therapist may examine your entire body, diagnose the painful places in your hips and knees, and design a treatment plan just for you.

You have the right to return to the activities you enjoy without fear of your hips and knees limiting you. So, what are you waiting for? Get comfort from one of our highly skilled physical therapists!

Contact GoodLife Physical Therapy to schedule your one-on-one evaluation today, and get back on the road to recovery.

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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 us 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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Treat Your Back and Neck Pain with Our Advanced PT Methods

Did you know that studies say approximately 90% of people will be plagued by back or neck pain at some point in their lives? While it is a common complaint, it can sometimes be difficult to determine where the pain is originating on your own.

Sometimes pain in one area can travel to another part of the body. For example, if your pain is originating in your back or neck, it can sometimes also be felt in the head, arms, or legs. As pain progresses, it is possible for it to travel further from where it is rooted. Fortunately, physical therapy can help you manage your pain, and in many cases, eliminate it altogether. To find our how our advanced physical therapy methods can benefit you, contact Goodlife Physical Therapy today.

The benefits of physical therapy:

Physical therapy for back pain and neck pain is focused on the structures that support the spine. This includes the tendons, ligaments, muscles, and joints. Your treatment will include both active and passive forms of physical therapy, in order to achieve optimum relief, function, and injury prevention for the future.

Active physical therapy for neck and back pain typically includes specific exercises, stretches, adjustments, in order to manage or relieve your pain altogether. In some cases, aquatic therapy may be recommended, as the buoyancy of water takes pressure off of the cervical and lumbar spine while you’re performing the exercises.

Passive physical therapy includes different modalities, such as massage therapy,  ice and heat therapies, ultrasound, or electrotherapy. Massage therapy is used to reduce pain and relax the muscles. Ice or heat therapies help to reduce swelling and pain, in addition to increasing blood flow for healing. With electrotherapy, electrical impulses are sent to the sensory nerves, in order to alter pain signals. It’s a mildly warm sensation that reduces pain and relaxes muscles.

How can I get started?

Before your physical therapy treatments even start, a physical therapist will perform an examination to determine the root cause of your back or neck pain. A strength test will be performed and a goniometer may be used to measure your range of motion. You will be asked to perform certain tasks in order to determine your functional mobility.

Spinal mobility will be also measured through palpation, in order to locate sore or tight muscles. Your full medical history will be evaluated, in addition to your symptoms, in order to determine the nature and severity of your condition. Once your examination is complete, your physical therapist will design a personalized treatment plan that will target the cause of your back or neck pain and focus on providing relief.

What will my treatment plan look like?

There are several different causes of back and neck pain, which is why our dedicated physical therapists take the time to design an individualized treatment plan for each patient. Some of the most common conditions leading to back and neck pain are:

  • Sprains and strains. It’s not uncommon for athletes to incur sprains and strains to the neck or back regions when engaging in sports.
  • Sudden traumas or injuries. Sudden damage to the neck or back, such as a sports collision or whiplash, may result in back or neck pain.
  • Improper posture. Poor posture can cause unnecessary strains on the back and neck, resulting in pain and discomfort.
  • Disc herniation. A herniated disc occurs when the gel-like material of the disc bulges or leaks out.
  • Osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis is the “wear and tear” on the facet joints, which causes friction when bending. This can also result in a pinched nerve root, which can cause sciatica.
  • Degenerative disc disease. Degenerative disc disease occurs when there is “wear and tear” on the spinal discs.

Whatever the cause of your back or neck pain, physical therapy can help. If you’ve been limited by pain, contact Goodlife Physical Therapy today to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced and caring physical therapists. Don’t let your pain dictate your life – seek treatment today to relieve your condition and live comfortably once again!

Make the Most of Your Surgery with Physical Therapy – Both Before and After

Did You Know There are Benefits to Physical Therapy, Both Before and After Surgery?

Are you getting ready to have surgery?

If so, you should consider physical therapy before your surgery. Physical therapy prior to surgery helps with a speedy recovery and not only after surgery.

According to the American Physical Therapy Association, physical therapy can help not only with overall wellness, but also prevention.

When the operation is done, physical therapy can help to ensure a speedy and full recovery. If you have an upcoming surgery planned, contact us to learn more about how physical therapy can help you with both preparation and recovery.

Call Goodlife Physical Therapy today to learn how our physical therapists can help you before and after your surgery.

Why am I in need of surgery?

People may require surgery for a variety of reasons.

It may be required to remove diseased tissues, fix a broken bone, implant an electronic device, remove an obstruction or to explore a condition for the purpose of diagnosis.

Common surgeries include appendectomy, Cesarean section, hip replacement, coronary artery bypass, and low back surgery.

What are some ways I can prepare for my surgery?

If you’re planning to have surgery, you’ll want to prepare for it.

You may be familiar with rehabilitation after surgery, or post-surgical rehab. It makes sense – your body loses a lot of strength when undergoing a surgical procedure, and rehabilitation treatments are needed in order to help you regain your function.

Post-surgical rehabilitation tends to focus on targeted exercises and stretches that are aimed at helping relieve your pain, improve your strength, and redeem your optimum function in the affected area(s) of your body.

It may also incorporate additional methods or modalities as needed, such as manual therapy, ice and heat therapies, ultrasound, electrical stimulation, and more. Essentially, it helps you make a full recovery from your surgery.

However, pre-surgical rehabilitation can help you prepare for your surgery – before it even happens. That means taking care of your health and being in the best condition that you can be in before the procedure. You’ll want to ensure that you’re getting enough sleep, eating right, and staying active.

Pre-surgical rehabilitation is a bit different. It focuses on stretches and exercises prior to surgery in order to prepare your body for the procedure ahead.

In fact, according to the National Institutes of Health, participating in exercise therapies prior to surgery can exceptionally improve your post-operative outcomes and reduce your recovery time.

It is no secret that surgery takes a toll on the body, so preparing yourself beforehand with strengthening stretches and exercises can greatly benefit your results.

It can also help you prepare mentally, by giving you a better peace of mind going into surgery, knowing you did everything to make the procedure as easy on you as possible.

Essentially, you should also consider physical therapy both prior to and after your surgery!

How can physical therapy help both before and after surgery?

Physical therapy before surgery can help:

  • Increase stamina
  • Restore range of motion
  • Reduce complications of surgery
  • Shorten recovery time and hospital stay
  • Lessen pain

Studies have shown that working with a physical therapist before surgery helps joints and muscles near the injury before surgery. It results in a faster recovery with a better outcome. Pre-rehabilitation before surgery strengthens the body for surgery.

A physical therapist will explain how your joints, ligaments and muscles work together, measure your current range of motion and discuss goals for after surgery recovery. It’s recommended to begin physical therapy at least six weeks prior to the scheduled surgery.

However, people who find they need surgery two weeks before also benefit from physical therapy.The whole purpose of physical therapy after surgery is to help the patient achieve optimal physical functioning.

A physical therapist will examine your medical history and perform assessments of your physical strength, motor functioning, breathing rate, balance, and range of motion after surgery.

Although the body can heal itself after surgery, it often needs some help. Physical therapy can help avoid loss of muscle mass, range of motion and scar tissue. Physical therapists also have cold therapy systems, which help damaged tissues heal faster.

Keep in mind that mobility doesn’t just mean being able to walk. For example, if you undergo shoulder surgery, you’ll need to regain mobility in the joint in order to lift items and reach overhead.

A physical therapist will design a treatment plan that is specific to your injury and surgery. A physical therapist will also advise you what activities are sure during your recovery process. You don’t want to unwittingly re-injure yourself.

How can I get started?

If you’re going to have surgery, call Goodlife Physical Therapy to set up an appointment with one of our physical therapists. They will do a full evaluation and explain the pre-treatment plan and the post-surgery plan.

Our goal is to get you back to your regular lifestyle before your injury occurred.