Common symptoms of post-concussion syndrome include headaches, dizziness, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, memory problems, irritability, and sleep disturbances. Individuals may also experience sensitivity to light and noise, as well as changes in mood and behavior. These symptoms can vary in severity and may persist for weeks or even months after the initial concussion.
The duration of post-concussion symptoms can vary greatly from person to person. While some individuals may recover within a few weeks, others may experience symptoms for several months or even longer. Factors such as the severity of the concussion, the individual's overall health, and their adherence to treatment recommendations can all influence the timeline for symptom resolution.
Tension-type headache (TTH) is a prevalent and burdensome condition that affects many individuals. Recent research suggests that the cervical spine, specifically the trigemino-cervical nucleus caudalis, may play a role in the development of TTH. This nucleus facilitates the exchange of pain signals between the upper cervical spine and the trigeminal nerve, which is involved in headache generation. Links between the upper cervical spine and TTHStudies have shown that individuals with TTH often exhibit musculoskeletal impairments. Common findings include forward head posture and restricted cervical range of motion. These physical dysfunctions may contribute to the headache symptoms experienced by TTH patients. Neck pain and sensitivity in the cervical spine are frequently reported alongside TTH and may worsen the clinical presentation of the headache. These symptoms could be epiphenomena resulting from the sensitization of the trigemino-cervical nucleus caudalis.While forward head posture is a common observation in TTH, its direct relevance to the headache remains a topic of debate. Similarly, the relationship between restricted cervical range of motion and TTH is not well understood. It is uncertain whether these musculoskeletal impairments are causative factors or consequences of the headache.Clinicians often use the cervical flexion-rotation test to assess upper cervical spine mobility, which has proven useful in diagnosing cervicogenic headache. However, its application and significance in TTH are not extensively studied. Further research is needed to elucidate the role of this test in TTH diagnosis and management.Another intriguing observation is the reproduction of headache pain through manual stimulation of the upper cervical spine in both cervicogenic headache and TTH. This suggests that referred pain from the cervical spine may be involved in the pathophysiology of primary headaches. Understanding this mechanism could lead to novel therapeutic approaches for TTH.Additionally, trigger points in the neck-shoulder muscles may contribute to TTH symptoms by generating muscle referred pain. These trigger points can refer pain to other areas, including the head, and may exacerbate the headache experienced by individuals with TTH. Managing TTH in practiceA multidisciplinary approach involving physical therapy interventions targeting musculoskeletal impairments, exercise, and psychological aspects is essential for the management of TTH. The effectiveness of cervical treatment approaches varies, and personalized strategies should be tailored to individual patients. Understanding the role of the cervical spine in TTH and differentiating between cervical components and sources can aid in the recognition and treatment of diverse headache presentations. Our cervical spine models help professionals manage the connections between TTH and the role of the cervical spine. Check out my exclusive blue nucleus anti-nocebo version!via Dr. Jerome Fryer - Dynamic Disc Designs 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 Group Live cases webinars lecture Live Q&A over 600 videos - hundreds of techniques and more! Check out MMT Insiders Keeping it Eclectic... This article was originally posted on Modern Manual Therapy Blog
Posted by on 2023-07-05
Erson goes over an interesting TMJ case of posterior disc subluxation and severe pain with opening and eating. It turns out after significant improvement the patient was still checking for tenderness a bit too much. 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 2023-06-26
By Dr. Sean Wells, DPT, PT, OCS, ATC/L, CSCS, NSCA-CPT, CNPT, Cert-DNAs physical therapists (PTs) we do our best to optimize our older clients' strength, balance, and functioning. Obviously, our mainstay interventions focus on exercises, balance training, and adaptive equipment. In our courses, we highlight the importance of Vitamin D status and protein consumption for older adults, to improve balance, strength, and prevent sarcopenia. A recent study in Nature Aging highlights yet another potential dietary component that impacts muscle function: ceramides.Ceramides, a sphingolipid, which is a type of fat, has been shown to reduce muscle mass and functional capacity in rodents. Moreover, it has been shown that offering ceramide-inhibiting medication effectively reverses sarcopenia, which is very promising for human studies. In the current study the authors examined older adults with a genetic variant to inhibit ceramides. The results showed these adults with the variant had significantly better grip strength, walking distance, and sit to stand function: all metrics that Doctors of Physical Therapy (DPT) routinely measure. The next big step for these researchers is understanding how to yield these results via medication and/or dietary changes.Fortunately, other authors have highlighted how PTs and other clinicians can advise their patients on how to naturally reduce ceramides in their diet. In the FRUVEDomic pilot study, authors demonstrated that a diet low in fruits and vegetables, and high in saturated fat, facilitated an increase in hepatic ceramide production. The researchers concluded that even transitioning patients from a standard Western diet to even the US Dietary Guidelines would yield positive responses for aging. Imagine the impact on aging and physical functioning if we took the diet to a bit more extreme, such as the true Mediterranean or predominant plant-based diet? More research is needed, but PTs need to be aware that fruit and vegetable consumption is important for many health outcomes, and screening tools are available and easy to use. We discuss this and more in our courses!If you like what you see here then know there is more in our 3 board-approved continuing education courses on Nutrition specific for Physical Therapists. Enroll today in our new bundled course offering and save 20%, a value of $60!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 Group Live cases webinars lecture Live Q&A over 600 videos - hundreds of techniques and more! Check out MMT Insiders Keeping it Eclectic... This article was originally posted on Modern Manual Therapy Blog
Posted by on 2023-06-19
Andrew finds out the hard way what the term Functional Overlay means in regard to a slow or non responding patient. Have you ever heard of this term or has anything similar ever happened to you? Comment on our socials or on the podcast on Spotify! 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 2023-06-16
In a recent article in The Lancet Rheumatology, researchers show how lower back pain is a rapidly escalating global issue, affecting an estimated 619 million people in 2020 – nearly 10% of the world’s population. Experts predict that this number will reach 843 million by 2050.Compounding problems in the lower back epidemicAsia and Africa are expected to experience the most significant rise in lower back pain cases. These regions often already face challenges due to limited and overburdened social support systems and healthcare resources.The COVID-19 pandemic has further exacerbated the problem. Increased inactivity due to lockdowns and poor ergonomics from remote work setups have contributed to the intensity and prevalence of lower back pain. Additionally, limited access to healthcare services during the pandemic has added to the suffering of individuals already affected by this condition.It’s important to consider that the provided figures may underestimate the true burden, as they do not fully account for the impact of the pandemic.The Societal Burden of Lower Back PainLower back pain imposes a substantial burden on society and the economy. In the United Kingdom, the National Health Service spends nearly £5 billion annually on general practitioner appointments alone for this condition.Similarly, the cost of lower back and neck pain in the United States reached a staggering $134 billion in 2016. Of course, the consequences extend beyond the financial costs.Lower back pain leads to increased absenteeism, reduced productivity, and early retirement, particularly among the working-age population. There is also a strong association between lower back pain and higher rates of depression, leading to prolonged disability and hindering recovery.The researchers warn it is crucial to address the societal impact of lower back pain and develop comprehensive strategies to mitigate its effects.Addressing the Issue of Back Pain GloballyAddressing the global issue of lower back pain will require immediate attention and collaborative efforts. Solutions should prioritize strategies aimed at alleviating lower back pain in the workplace, where many people spend a significant part of their time.Implementing ergonomic practices and promoting physical activity can help prevent and reduce the problem of lower back pain. Moreover, improving access to rehabilitation services is essential for effective management and recovery.Specialized training for healthcare practitioners in the treatment of lower back pain can lead to better outcomes and patient care. Additionally, reducing reliance on ineffective and potentially harmful treatments, such as opioids, is crucial.Finally, the researchers stress that governments, healthcare systems, and policymakers must work together to prioritize lower back pain and allocate resources effectively. By taking proactive measures, we can alleviate the burden of lower back pain and improve the quality of life for millions of individuals worldwide.Are you a professional helping in the fight against lower back pain? Take your practice to the next level with our lumbar area anatomy models.Via Dr. Jerome Fryer - Dynamic Disc DesignsCheck out our EXCLUSIVE Anti-Nocebo BLUE Nucleus Disc Model! This article was originally posted on Modern Manual Therapy Blog
Posted by on 2023-06-12
The recommended treatment options for post-concussion rehabilitation typically involve a multidisciplinary approach. This may include rest and gradual return to activity, physical therapy to address balance and coordination issues, occupational therapy to help with cognitive and functional difficulties, and psychological support to manage emotional and behavioral changes. It is important for individuals to work closely with healthcare professionals to develop a personalized treatment plan.
There are specific exercises and therapies that can be beneficial for post-concussion rehabilitation. These may include vestibular rehabilitation exercises to improve balance and reduce dizziness, visual therapy to address vision problems, cognitive rehabilitation exercises to improve memory and attention, and graded exercise programs to gradually increase physical activity levels. These interventions are tailored to the individual's specific symptoms and needs, and should be guided by a healthcare professional.
Post-concussion syndrome can potentially lead to long-term cognitive problems in some individuals. While most people recover fully from a concussion, a small percentage may experience persistent cognitive difficulties, such as problems with memory, attention, and executive functioning. It is important for individuals with post-concussion syndrome to receive appropriate medical care and follow up with healthcare professionals to monitor their cognitive function and address any ongoing issues.
There are no specific medications that are approved for the treatment of post-concussion syndrome. However, certain medications may be prescribed to manage specific symptoms, such as headaches, sleep disturbances, or mood changes. These medications should be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional and should be part of a comprehensive treatment plan that includes other rehabilitative interventions.
Potential complications or risks associated with post-concussion rehabilitation are generally minimal but can vary depending on the individual and their specific circumstances. In some cases, individuals may experience a worsening of symptoms or new symptoms during the rehabilitation process. It is important for healthcare professionals to closely monitor the individual's progress and adjust the treatment plan as needed. Additionally, it is crucial for individuals to follow the recommended guidelines for rest and activity modification to avoid further injury or setbacks in their recovery.
Office workers need to pay attention to several ergonomic considerations in order to prevent repetitive strain injuries (RSIs). One important consideration is the proper positioning of the workstation. This includes having an adjustable chair that supports the natural curves of the spine and allows for proper alignment of the head, neck, and shoulders. The desk should be at a height that allows for comfortable typing and viewing of the computer screen, with the keyboard and mouse positioned at a height that keeps the wrists in a neutral position. Additionally, office workers should take regular breaks to stretch and move around, as prolonged sitting can contribute to RSIs. It is also important to use ergonomic equipment, such as ergonomic keyboards and mice, that are designed to reduce strain on the hands and wrists. Finally, office workers should be mindful of their posture and practice good ergonomics throughout the day, such as sitting up straight and avoiding slouching or hunching over the desk. By implementing these ergonomic considerations, office workers can reduce the risk of developing RSIs and promote a healthier and more comfortable work environment.
Hydro-massage therapy has been found to be effective in reducing muscle tension and promoting relaxation in pregnant women. The gentle pressure and warmth of the water can help to alleviate muscle tightness and discomfort, providing relief from the physical strain that pregnancy can place on the body. Additionally, the buoyancy of the water can help to reduce the impact on joints and provide a sense of weightlessness, further enhancing relaxation. The rhythmic motion of the water can also have a soothing effect on the nervous system, promoting a sense of calm and reducing stress. Overall, hydro-massage therapy can be a beneficial and safe option for pregnant women seeking relief from muscle tension and a way to relax during this transformative time.
Neuromuscular reeducation plays a crucial role in post-stroke rehabilitation by offering a range of benefits. This therapeutic approach focuses on retraining the brain and muscles to regain lost motor skills and improve overall functional abilities. By incorporating specific exercises and techniques, neuromuscular reeducation helps individuals with stroke-related impairments to enhance their balance, coordination, and proprioception. Additionally, it aids in restoring muscle strength, flexibility, and range of motion, which are often compromised after a stroke. The targeted nature of this rehabilitation method allows for the reestablishment of neural pathways and the promotion of neuroplasticity, facilitating the rewiring of the brain and enabling individuals to regain control over their movements. Moreover, neuromuscular reeducation can contribute to reducing muscle spasticity and preventing secondary complications such as contractures and joint deformities. Overall, this approach empowers post-stroke patients to regain independence and improve their quality of life by optimizing their physical functioning and mobility.
Kinesiology tape can be used as an adjunctive treatment in the management of lymphedema. The indications for using kinesiology tape in lymphedema management include reducing swelling, improving lymphatic flow, enhancing tissue drainage, and providing support to the affected limb. The tape is applied in a specific pattern that creates a lifting effect on the skin, which helps to increase space between the skin and underlying tissues, allowing for improved lymphatic drainage. Additionally, the tape can provide proprioceptive feedback, promoting proper movement and reducing the risk of injury. Overall, kinesiology tape can be a valuable tool in the comprehensive management of lymphedema, helping to alleviate symptoms and improve overall function.