Common hand therapy interventions for individuals with carpal tunnel syndrome include exercises to improve flexibility and strength in the hand and wrist, as well as techniques to reduce pain and inflammation. These interventions may include stretching exercises to improve range of motion, strengthening exercises to improve grip strength, and nerve gliding exercises to reduce compression on the median nerve. Additionally, hand therapists may use modalities such as ultrasound or electrical stimulation to help alleviate pain and promote healing. Splinting may also be used to immobilize the wrist and reduce pressure on the median nerve, particularly during periods of rest or sleep.
Hand therapy interventions can help improve range of motion and strength in individuals with arthritis by targeting specific joints and muscles in the hand. These interventions may include exercises to increase flexibility and mobility, such as finger and wrist stretches, as well as strengthening exercises to improve grip strength and overall hand function. Hand therapists may also use modalities such as heat or cold therapy, ultrasound, or electrical stimulation to reduce pain and inflammation. Additionally, splinting may be used to support and stabilize the affected joints, allowing for improved movement and function.
Sometimes a point in your career is reached where you just want something different. Other times, a particular case can ignite that spark or drive to make the change. Today, we're joined by Dr. Ryan Martin, who is making waves currently in the MSK Ultrasound world. You can follow him on LinkedIn here. Ryan gives his origin story and how he got where is today, a leader in the field of MSK Ultrasound and advocate for PTs. Untold Physio Stories is sponsored byHelix Pain Creams - I use Helix Creams in my practice and patients love them! Perfect in combination with joint mobs, IASTM and soft tissue work. Get your sample and start an additional revenue stream for your practice. Click here to get started. https://modmt.com/helixCheck out EDGE Mobility System's Best Sellers - Something for every PT, OT, DC, MT, ATC or Fitness Minded Individual https://edgemobilitysystem.comCurv Health - Start your own Virtual Clinic Side Hustle for FREE! Create your profile in 3 minutes, set your rates, and Curv will handle the rest! From scheduling to payments, messaging, charting, and a full exercise library that allow for patient/clinician tracking, it's never been easier! Click to join Dr. E's new Virtual Clinic Collective to help promote best online practices. Keeping it Eclectic... This article was originally posted on Modern Manual Therapy Blog
Posted by on 2023-05-23
In this episode, Erson is joined by Dr. Malik Parker. He happened to stumble upon some quick fixes for bilateral thumb issues. Have you ever seen something like this in your practice? Untold Physio Stories is sponsored byHelix Pain Creams - I use Helix Creams in my practice and patients love them! Perfect in combination with joint mobs, IASTM and soft tissue work. Get your sample and start an additional revenue stream for your practice. Click here to get started. https://modmt.com/helixCheck out EDGE Mobility System's Best Sellers - Something for every PT, OT, DC, MT, ATC or Fitness Minded Individual https://edgemobilitysystem.comCurv Health - Start your own Virtual Clinic Side Hustle for FREE! Create your profile in 3 minutes, set your rates, and Curv will handle the rest! From scheduling to payments, messaging, charting, and a full exercise library that allow for patient/clinician tracking, it's never been easier! Click to join Dr. E's new Virtual Clinic Collective to help promote best online practices. Keeping it Eclectic... This article was originally posted on Modern Manual Therapy Blog
Posted by on 2023-05-16
In this episode, Erson is joined by Dr. Hannah Cox who recently attended one of his live TMJ Seminars. Upon leaving, she felt prepared to take on the TMJ world! Until that is two days later, she had a patient with high fear avoidance and complaints of open lock TMJ, headaches and neck issues. Luckily, Erson was able to instill her confidence over an online mentoring session and all worked out great over 3 sessions only! Untold Physio Stories is sponsored byHelix Pain Creams - I use Helix Creams in my practice and patients love them! Perfect in combination with joint mobs, IASTM and soft tissue work. Get your sample and start an additional revenue stream for your practice. Click here to get started. https://modmt.com/helixCheck out EDGE Mobility System's Best Sellers - Something for every PT, OT, DC, MT, ATC or Fitness Minded Individual https://edgemobilitysystem.comCurv Health - Start your own Virtual Clinic Side Hustle for FREE! Create your profile in 3 minutes, set your rates, and Curv will handle the rest! From scheduling to payments, messaging, charting, and a full exercise library that allow for patient/clinician tracking, it's never been easier! Click to join Dr. E's new Virtual Clinic Collective to help promote best online practices. Keeping it Eclectic... This article was originally posted on Modern Manual Therapy Blog
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Posted by on 2023-05-08
Erson follows up with the difficult lumbar lateral shift patient from this episode a few weeks back. As in the past, he's doing much better and this time Erson takes care not to flare him up! Interestingly enough using the Activforce 2 handheld dynamometer reveals some significant hip and trunk rotation strength percentage differences that could be key to better prevention. Untold Physio Stories is sponsored byHelix Pain Creams - I use Helix Creams in my practice and patients love them! Perfect in combination with joint mobs, IASTM and soft tissue work. Get your sample and start an additional revenue stream for your practice. Click here to get started.Check out EDGE Mobility System's Best Sellers - Something for every PT, OT, DC, MT, ATC or Fitness Minded IndividualCurv Health - Start your own Virtual Clinic Side Hustle for FREE! Create your profile in 3 minutes, set your rates, and Curv will handle the rest! From scheduling to payments, messaging, charting, and a full exercise library that allow for patient/clinician tracking, it's never been easier! Click to join Dr. E's new Virtual Clinic Collective to help promote best online practicesKeeping it Eclectic... This article was originally posted on Modern Manual Therapy Blog
Posted by on 2023-05-04
Introduction SummaryLow back pain (LBP) is a prevalent and costly health problem that affects a significant portion of the global population. Pain developers (PDs) are individuals who are considered a pre-clinical LBP population at risk of developing clinical LBP, which can exact great social and economic costs. Prolonged standing has been identified as a risk factor for LBP, and it is necessary to investigate the risk factors of standing-induced LBP in PDs comprehensively. By identifying these risk factors, appropriate preventive measures can be planned, which may reduce the incidence of standing-induced LBP and its associated costs.This study1 used a systematic review and meta-analysis approach to investigate the distinctive characteristics and risk factors of standing-induced LBP in PDs. The study aimed to identify statistically significant differences between PDs and non-pain developers (NPDs) in demographics, biomechanical, and psychological outcomes and to determine the pooled effect sizes of these differences. The study’s findings have important implications for preventing and managing standing-induced LBP in PDs and for future research investigating the association of these distinctive characteristics to standing-induced LBP and interventions that may modify them.Characteristics of Pain Developers and Non-Pain DevelopersThe systematic review and meta-analysis identified 52 papers and theses involving 1070 participants (528 PDs and 542 NPDs) that were eligible for inclusion. The studies used a prolonged standing duration greater than 42 minutes to classify adult PDs and NPDs without a history of LBP.Significant differences were found between PDs and NPDs in terms of movement patterns, muscular, postural, psychological, structural, and anthropometric variables. PDs exhibited altered motor control in the anterior hip abduction (AHAbd) test and displayed higher lumbar lordosis in individuals over 25 years old. These factors were found to have a statistically significant association with standing-induced LBP.Muscular differences were also identified between PDs and NPDs. PDs had a higher level of co-activation between gluteus medius and the erector spinae muscles, which can lead to increased lumbar loading and potentially contribute to the development of LBP.In terms of postural characteristics, PDs had less trunk control and increased trunk sway during standing compared to NPDs, which may suggest a lack of postural stability.Psychological characteristics were also found to differ between PDs and NPDs. PDs had higher levels of pain catastrophizing, which is the tendency to magnify the threat value of pain and to feel helpless in the face of it, and is associated with increased pain intensity and disability.Finally, anthropometric and structural differences were found between PDs and NPDs. PDs tended to have higher body mass index (BMI) and shorter stature compared to NPDs, which may result in altered spinal loading during standing.These findings suggest that PDs have distinct biomechanical and psychological characteristics that may predispose them to standing-induced LBP. Altered motor control displayed in AHAbd test and higher lumbar lordosis in individuals over 25 years seem to be probable risk factors for standing-induced LBP. The study’s findings have important implications for preventing and managing standing-induced LBP in PDs and for future research investigating the association of these distinctive characteristics to standing-induced LBP and interventions that may modify them.Risk Factors for Standing-Induced Low Back PainThe systematic review and meta-analysis identified several factors that were found to have a statistically significant association with standing-induced LBP:Lumbar fidgets – Participants with PDs displayed more lumbar fidgets, defined as small voluntary or involuntary movements of the lumbar spine, which are indicative of discomfort or pain. This factor was found to have a significant negative effect size (Hedge’s g − 0.72).Lumbar lordosis in participants over 25 years – Participants with PDs had higher lumbar lordosis, defined as the natural curvature of the lumbar spine, in individuals over 25 years old. This factor was found to have a significant positive effect size (Hedge’s g 2.75).AHAbd test – Participants with PDs displayed altered motor control in the AHAbd test, which measures the ability to control the hip and pelvis while lifting one leg. This factor was found to have a significant positive effect size (WMD 0.7).Gluteus medius co-activation – Participants with PDs had higher levels of co-activation between the gluteus medius and erector spinae muscles. This factor was found to have a significant positive effect size (Hedge’s g 4.24).Pain catastrophizing – Participants with PDs had higher levels of pain catastrophizing, which is associated with increased pain intensity and disability. This factor was found to have a significant positive effect size (WMD 2.85).These risk factors suggest that altered motor control, higher lumbar lordosis, increased gluteus medius co-activation, and pain catastrophizing may predispose individuals to standing-induced LBP. The findings may help identify individuals at risk of developing standing-induced LBP and plan appropriate preventive measures.Future research should investigate the association of the reported distinctive characteristics to standing-induced LBP and whether they are manipulable through various interventions. Such interventions may include physical therapy, posture correction, and mindfulness-based stress reduction, among others. Identifying modifiable risk factors may lead to the development of effective interventions for preventing and managing standing-induced LBP in individuals with pre-clinical LBP.Implications for Future ResearchThe systematic review and meta-analysis identified several distinct characteristics and risk factors for standing-induced LBP in PDs compared to NPDs. However, the study authors note that the identified risk factors do not necessarily prove causality or provide a complete understanding of the mechanisms underlying standing-induced LBP. As such, future research should investigate these factors in greater detail, and identify modifiable risk factors that can be targeted for preventive interventions.The study authors recommend that future research should investigate the following areas:Association with standing-induced LBP – Further research should investigate the association of the identified distinctive characteristics and risk factors to standing-induced LBP. Studies should investigate whether these factors are predictive of standing-induced LBP and whether they are specific to standing-induced LBP or generalizable to other types of LBP.Mechanisms underlying standing-induced LBP – Future research should also investigate the underlying mechanisms of standing-induced LBP, such as the interplay between motor control, muscle activation, and posture. Understanding the mechanisms underlying standing-induced LBP can help identify modifiable risk factors and develop effective interventions.Intervention strategies – Future research should investigate the efficacy of various interventions for preventing and managing standing-induced LBP in individuals with pre-clinical LBP. Such interventions may include physical therapy, posture correction, mindfulness-based stress reduction, and other strategies aimed at reducing risk factors identified in this study.Generalizability of findings – Finally, future research should investigate the generalizability of the study findings to other populations, such as individuals with clinical LBP or those with different occupational or lifestyle factors. This will help to determine the applicability of the findings to a broader population and inform the development of preventive measures for standing-induced LBP.ConclusionIn summary, this systematic review and meta-analysis found that pain developers (PDs) – individuals with a history of low back pain (LBP) – have distinct characteristics compared to non-pain developers (NPDs) when exposed to prolonged standing. These characteristics include altered movement patterns, muscular, postural, psychological, structural, and anthropometric variables. The study also identified several risk factors associated with standing-induced LBP, including lumbar fidgets, higher lumbar lordosis in participants over 25 years, AHAbd test, GMed co-activation, and higher scores on the Pain Catastrophizing Scale.These findings have important implications for preventing and managing standing-induced LBP, particularly in individuals with a history of LBP. The study suggests that altered motor control displayed in the AHAbd test and higher lumbar lordosis in individuals over 25 years old are probable risk factors for standing-induced LBP. Therefore, future interventions may focus on improving motor control and reducing excessive lumbar lordosis. Additionally, the study highlights the importance of addressing psychological factors, such as pain catastrophizing, as a potential risk factor for standing-induced LBP.Overall, the study emphasizes the need for a comprehensive approach to preventing and managing standing-induced LBP, including a focus on biomechanical, psychological, and other factors. Future research should investigate the association of these distinctive characteristics to standing-induced LBP and whether they are manipulable through various interventions. By identifying and addressing these risk factors, it may be possible to reduce the prevalence of LBP and improve the quality of life for individuals with a history of LBP.This study emphasizes the importance of developing appropriate preventive measures for standing-induced low back pain (LBP) in pain developers (PDs). PDs are individuals with a history of LBP and are considered a pre-clinical population at risk of developing clinical LBP, which can lead to significant social and economic costs. The study found that PDs have distinct characteristics compared to non-pain developers (NPDs) when exposed to prolonged standing, which suggests that targeted interventions may be necessary to prevent standing-induced LBP in this population.The development of appropriate preventive measures requires a thorough understanding of the risk factors associated with standing-induced LBP in PDs. This study identified several risk factors, including lumbar fidgets, higher lumbar lordosis in participants over 25 years, AHAbd test, GMed co-activation, and higher scores on the Pain Catastrophizing Scale. These risk factors suggest that interventions targeting motor control, lumbar lordosis, and psychological factors may be effective in preventing standing-induced LBP in PDs.In addition to identifying risk factors, the study highlights the importance of comprehensive interventions that address biomechanical, psychological, and other factors associated with standing-induced LBP. These interventions may include postural education, physical therapy, and cognitive-behavioural therapy. By addressing these factors, it may be possible to reduce the prevalence of LBP and improve the quality of life for individuals with a history of LBP.Overall, the study underscores the importance of developing appropriate preventive measures for standing-induced LBP in PDs. Identifying risk factors and developing targeted interventions may help reduce the burden of LBP in this population and improve their overall health and well-being.Dynamic Disc DesignsDynamic Disc Designs offers dynamic anatomical models that musculoskeletal healthcare workers (chiropractors, medical doctors, physiotherapists, osteopaths) can use to help explain how the spine is impacted when one stands, for example. The models are designed to simulate the spinal movement dynamically, allowing various spinal specialists to better illustrate to patients the impact that standing can have on the spine.Using the dynamic disc model, a healthcare worker can demonstrate how the intervertebral discs are compressed when standing due to the force of gravity on the spine. They can show how the discs lose water content and height throughout the day, resulting in reduced shock absorption and increased pressure on the spinal nerves. This can lead to various symptoms, including low back pain, stiffness, and numbness or tingling in the legs. In this particular research highlighted in this post, a practitioner can explain dynamically what excessive lordosis means and how the facets are approximated in this case. Explore.Want to learn in person? Attend a #manualtherapyparty! Check out our course calendar below!Learn more online - new online discussion group included!Want an approach that enhances your existing evaluation and treatment? No commercial model gives you THE answer. You need an approach that blends the modern with the old school. NEW - Online Discussion GroupLive caseswebinarslectureLive Q&Aover 600 videos - hundreds of techniques and more! Check out MMT InsidersKeeping it Eclectic... This article was originally posted on Modern Manual Therapy Blog
![[RESEARCH REVIEW] The High Cost of Standing: Uncovering Risk Factors for Low Back Pain](https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXTsCQGpK-PEaVaLh2d-4MDJt3iZYFUMfzgmUKypDoGEjgXskP71pa-s8bMk_XOK-iWRrL8pLt-vIE6tD_i8NbsgluTbBpfCrbP80CWO3oFOoSZauwQ7U375LUV9hsBh7bwaSz6BJiYSFJfEniuRnDbSGa6swxPr0DzfpYmpWkljZ5TeS2P6031Ioh/s16000/Low%20back%20pain.png)
Posted by on 2023-04-27
Using splints as part of hand therapy interventions for individuals with finger fractures can provide several benefits. Splints help to immobilize the fractured finger, promoting proper alignment and preventing further injury. By immobilizing the finger, splints also help to reduce pain and swelling, allowing for faster healing. Splints can also provide support and stability to the finger, allowing individuals to engage in activities of daily living while protecting the injured finger. Additionally, splints can help to prevent deformities or contractures from developing during the healing process.
Hand therapy interventions can help individuals with tendonitis regain functional use of their hand by targeting the affected tendon and surrounding muscles. These interventions may include exercises to improve flexibility and strength in the hand and wrist, as well as techniques to reduce pain and inflammation. Hand therapists may use modalities such as heat or cold therapy, ultrasound, or electrical stimulation to promote healing and reduce pain. Additionally, they may provide education on proper ergonomics and body mechanics to prevent further strain on the affected tendon. Splinting may also be used to immobilize the affected area and provide support during the healing process.
Specialized hand therapy interventions for individuals with nerve injuries in their hand may include nerve gliding exercises, sensory re-education, and desensitization techniques. Nerve gliding exercises involve gentle movements of the hand and fingers to promote the gliding of the injured nerve and prevent adhesions. Sensory re-education techniques aim to improve the individual's ability to interpret and respond to sensory stimuli in the hand. Desensitization techniques involve gradually exposing the hand to different textures and sensations to reduce hypersensitivity. Additionally, hand therapists may use modalities such as electrical stimulation or ultrasound to promote nerve healing and reduce pain.
Hand therapy interventions can help individuals with Dupuytren's contracture improve hand function by targeting the affected tissues and joints. These interventions may include stretching exercises to improve flexibility and range of motion in the hand and fingers, as well as techniques to reduce pain and inflammation. Hand therapists may also use modalities such as heat or cold therapy, ultrasound, or electrical stimulation to promote healing and reduce pain. Additionally, splinting may be used to stretch and straighten the affected fingers, preventing further contracture and promoting improved hand function.
Hand therapy interventions that can help individuals with trigger finger alleviate pain and improve finger movement may include exercises to improve flexibility and strength in the affected finger, as well as techniques to reduce inflammation and promote healing. These interventions may include finger and hand stretches, as well as strengthening exercises to improve grip strength and overall finger function. Hand therapists may also use modalities such as heat or cold therapy, ultrasound, or electrical stimulation to reduce pain and inflammation. Additionally, splinting may be used to immobilize the affected finger and reduce strain on the affected tendon.
Hydro-massage therapy has been shown to effectively alleviate muscle soreness and promote recovery in athletes. This type of therapy utilizes water jets to provide a deep tissue massage, targeting specific muscle groups and increasing blood flow to the area. The combination of water pressure and heat helps to relax muscles, reduce inflammation, and improve circulation, which can aid in the recovery process. Additionally, hydro-massage therapy can help to flush out metabolic waste and toxins from the muscles, further enhancing the recovery process. Athletes who incorporate hydro-massage therapy into their post-workout routine may experience faster recovery times, reduced muscle soreness, and improved overall performance.
Yes, there are specific exercise protocols that can be used to improve core stability in patients with scoliosis. These protocols typically involve a combination of exercises that target the muscles surrounding the spine, including the deep abdominal muscles, the erector spinae muscles, and the muscles of the pelvic floor. Some common exercises used in these protocols include planks, side planks, bird dogs, and bridges. These exercises help to strengthen the core muscles, improve posture, and increase stability in the spine. Additionally, incorporating exercises that focus on balance and proprioception can also be beneficial for patients with scoliosis, as these exercises help to improve body awareness and control. It is important for patients with scoliosis to work with a qualified healthcare professional, such as a physical therapist or exercise physiologist, to develop an individualized exercise program that takes into account their specific needs and limitations.
Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) is indicated for pain management in various conditions. It is commonly used for musculoskeletal pain, such as low back pain, neck pain, and osteoarthritis. TENS can also be beneficial for neuropathic pain, including diabetic neuropathy and post-herpetic neuralgia. Additionally, it has shown effectiveness in managing pain associated with fibromyalgia and chronic headaches. TENS may be recommended as a non-pharmacological option for pain relief in these conditions, providing a safe and non-invasive method to alleviate discomfort.
One of the best strategies for preventing overuse injuries in runners is to gradually increase training volume and intensity. This means incorporating a progressive training plan that includes periods of rest and recovery. It is also important for runners to listen to their bodies and pay attention to any signs of pain or discomfort. Implementing proper warm-up and cool-down routines, as well as incorporating strength and flexibility exercises, can help improve overall muscle balance and reduce the risk of overuse injuries. Additionally, runners should consider cross-training activities to vary the stress placed on their bodies and reduce the repetitive impact on specific muscles and joints. Regularly replacing worn-out running shoes and using appropriate footwear for different terrains can also help prevent overuse injuries. Lastly, maintaining a balanced diet and staying hydrated can support overall health and reduce the risk of injuries.
Sensory integration therapy is a highly effective intervention that provides crucial support to children with developmental coordination disorder (DCD). This therapy focuses on enhancing the integration of sensory information from various modalities, such as touch, movement, and proprioception, to improve motor planning and coordination skills in children with DCD. By engaging in activities that stimulate the senses and challenge the child's motor skills, sensory integration therapy helps to rewire neural pathways and promote the development of more efficient motor patterns. Additionally, this therapy addresses sensory processing difficulties commonly associated with DCD, such as hypersensitivity or hyposensitivity to sensory stimuli, by gradually exposing the child to sensory experiences in a controlled and therapeutic manner. Overall, sensory integration therapy plays a vital role in supporting children with DCD by addressing their specific sensory and motor challenges and facilitating their overall development and functional abilities.
Proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) is a therapeutic technique that can improve muscle strength in older adults through various mechanisms. PNF involves stretching and contracting muscles in a specific pattern, which activates the neuromuscular system and enhances muscle recruitment. This technique utilizes proprioceptive feedback, which is the body's ability to sense its position and movement in space, to facilitate muscle activation and coordination. By incorporating repetitive and rhythmic movements, PNF can stimulate muscle fibers and promote muscle hypertrophy, leading to increased muscle strength. Additionally, PNF exercises often involve resistance, which further challenges the muscles and promotes strength gains. The combination of these factors, along with the specificity and intensity of PNF exercises, can effectively enhance muscle strength in older adults.
Therapists modify exercise programs for individuals with multiple sclerosis by tailoring the exercises to address the specific needs and limitations of each individual. They may incorporate a variety of exercises that focus on improving balance, coordination, strength, and flexibility. These exercises may include low-impact activities such as swimming or cycling, as well as exercises that target specific muscle groups affected by multiple sclerosis. Therapists may also incorporate assistive devices or adaptive equipment to ensure safety and maximize the benefits of the exercises. Additionally, therapists may adjust the intensity and duration of the exercises based on the individual's abilities and energy levels. Regular monitoring and reassessment of the exercise program are essential to ensure its effectiveness and make any necessary modifications.
Aquatic exercise programs have shown promising results in improving motor function in children with cerebral palsy. These programs involve engaging in physical activities in water, which provide a supportive and low-impact environment for children with motor impairments. The buoyancy of water reduces the effects of gravity, allowing children to move more freely and with less effort. Additionally, the resistance provided by water helps to strengthen muscles and improve coordination. Aquatic exercise programs often incorporate various exercises and activities that target specific motor skills, such as balance, coordination, and strength. Research studies have demonstrated that these programs can lead to significant improvements in motor function, including increased muscle strength, improved balance and coordination, and enhanced overall motor performance. Furthermore, the enjoyable and stimulating nature of aquatic exercise can also contribute to increased motivation and engagement in physical activity, which further supports the development of motor skills in children with cerebral palsy.