Proprioception Training

Proprioception Training

What is proprioception training and how does it improve body awareness?

Proprioception training is a type of exercise that focuses on improving body awareness and coordination. It involves performing specific movements and exercises that challenge the body's ability to sense its position in space. By targeting the proprioceptive system, which includes receptors in the muscles, tendons, and joints, this training helps individuals develop a better understanding of their body's position, movement, and balance. Through repetitive practice, proprioception training enhances the brain's ability to interpret sensory information and coordinate muscle actions, leading to improved body awareness.

There are several exercises and activities commonly used in proprioception training. These include balance exercises such as standing on one leg or using a balance board, agility drills that involve quick changes in direction and speed, and coordination exercises like juggling or catching and throwing objects. Other examples include yoga poses that challenge stability and body control, plyometric exercises that involve jumping and landing, and resistance training exercises that incorporate unstable surfaces or uneven terrain. These exercises aim to challenge the body's proprioceptive system and improve its ability to sense and respond to changes in position and movement.

Untold Physio Stories - Cervical Retraction for Bilateral Complaints

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

Untold Physio Stories - Cervical Retraction for Bilateral Complaints

Posted by on 2023-05-16

Untold Physio Stories - High Anxiety for Provider and Patient Over Open Lock TMJ

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

Untold Physio Stories - High Anxiety for Provider and Patient Over Open Lock TMJ

Posted by on 2023-05-08

Untold Physio Stories - A Tough Lumbar Lateral Shift Case Part 2

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

Untold Physio Stories - A Tough Lumbar Lateral Shift Case Part 2

Posted by on 2023-05-04

[RESEARCH REVIEW] The High Cost of Standing: Uncovering Risk Factors for Low Back Pain

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

Posted by on 2023-04-27

How does proprioception training benefit athletes and improve their performance?

Proprioception training offers numerous benefits to athletes and can significantly improve their performance. By enhancing body awareness and coordination, athletes can better control their movements, maintain proper form, and execute precise actions. This improved proprioceptive ability allows athletes to make quick adjustments and react more efficiently to changes in their environment, such as opponents' movements or uneven playing surfaces. Additionally, proprioception training can help reduce the risk of injuries by improving joint stability and reducing the likelihood of missteps or falls. Overall, proprioception training can give athletes a competitive edge by optimizing their movement efficiency and reducing the risk of performance-limiting injuries.

California Physiotherapy Clinics

How does proprioception training benefit athletes and improve their performance?

Can proprioception training help prevent injuries and improve balance?

Yes, proprioception training can help prevent injuries and improve balance. By targeting the proprioceptive system, this type of training enhances the body's ability to sense and respond to changes in position and movement. This improved proprioceptive ability allows individuals to maintain better balance and stability, reducing the risk of falls and injuries. Additionally, proprioception training helps strengthen the muscles and connective tissues surrounding the joints, improving joint stability and reducing the likelihood of sprains or strains. By incorporating exercises that challenge balance and coordination, proprioception training can effectively enhance overall body control and reduce the risk of injuries.

Are there any specific populations or individuals who can benefit from proprioception training?

Proprioception training can benefit a wide range of populations and individuals. Athletes of all levels, from recreational to professional, can benefit from this type of training to improve their performance and reduce the risk of injuries. Additionally, individuals recovering from injuries or surgeries can use proprioception training as part of their rehabilitation program to regain strength, stability, and coordination. Older adults can also benefit from proprioception training to improve balance and reduce the risk of falls. Furthermore, individuals with certain neurological conditions, such as Parkinson's disease or multiple sclerosis, can benefit from proprioception training to manage their symptoms and improve their overall movement control.

Acupuncture for Pain Relief

Are there any specific populations or individuals who can benefit from proprioception training?
What are some signs or symptoms of poor proprioception that may indicate the need for training?

Poor proprioception can manifest in various signs and symptoms, indicating the need for proprioception training. These may include frequent stumbling or tripping, difficulty maintaining balance, a lack of coordination or clumsiness, and a decreased ability to judge distances or spatial awareness. Individuals with poor proprioception may also have difficulty with tasks that require precise movements or changes in direction. Additionally, they may experience joint instability, muscle imbalances, or a decreased ability to control their body's movements. If any of these signs or symptoms are present, it may be beneficial to incorporate proprioception training into a fitness or rehabilitation program.

How long does it typically take to see improvements in proprioception with training?

The time it takes to see improvements in proprioception with training can vary depending on several factors, including the individual's starting level of proprioceptive ability, the frequency and intensity of the training, and the specific exercises and activities used. Generally, consistent and regular practice is key to seeing improvements in proprioception. With dedicated training, individuals can start to notice improvements in their body awareness and coordination within a few weeks to a couple of months. However, it is important to note that proprioception training is an ongoing process, and continued practice is necessary to maintain and further enhance proprioceptive abilities.

How long does it typically take to see improvements in proprioception with training?

Frequently Asked Questions

Aquatic therapy has been found to be highly beneficial for individuals with rheumatoid arthritis. The buoyancy of water helps to reduce the impact on joints, providing a low-impact environment for exercise. This can help to alleviate pain and stiffness associated with rheumatoid arthritis. Additionally, the resistance of water provides a gentle form of resistance training, which can help to improve muscle strength and joint stability. The warmth of the water also helps to relax muscles and increase blood flow, promoting healing and reducing inflammation. Overall, aquatic therapy offers a holistic approach to managing rheumatoid arthritis symptoms, improving mobility, and enhancing overall quality of life for individuals with this condition.

Aquatic therapy has been shown to be effective in reducing muscle spasticity in individuals with cerebral palsy. This form of therapy utilizes the properties of water, such as buoyancy and hydrostatic pressure, to provide a low-impact and supportive environment for exercise. The water's buoyancy helps to reduce the effects of gravity on the body, allowing for easier movement and decreased muscle resistance. Additionally, the hydrostatic pressure exerted by the water can help to improve circulation and reduce swelling, which can further alleviate muscle spasticity. The repetitive and controlled movements performed in the water also help to promote muscle relaxation and flexibility. Overall, aquatic therapy offers a comprehensive approach to managing muscle spasticity in individuals with cerebral palsy, addressing both the physical and physiological aspects of the condition.

When prescribing adaptive equipment for wheelchair users, there are several important considerations to take into account. Firstly, the individual's specific needs and abilities must be thoroughly assessed in order to determine the most suitable equipment. This includes evaluating their physical condition, mobility limitations, and any specific tasks or activities they need assistance with. Additionally, the environment in which the wheelchair will be used should be considered, such as the terrain, accessibility of buildings, and potential obstacles. The durability and quality of the equipment is also crucial, as it should be able to withstand regular use and provide long-term support. Furthermore, the comfort and safety of the user should be prioritized, ensuring that the equipment is properly fitted and adjustable to accommodate their unique body shape and size. Finally, the cost and availability of the adaptive equipment should be taken into consideration, as it should be affordable and easily accessible for the individual. Overall, a comprehensive assessment of the individual's needs, the environment, the quality of the equipment, and the cost should be considered when prescribing adaptive equipment for wheelchair users.

Vestibular rehabilitation is a specialized form of therapy that effectively targets and alleviates symptoms of dizziness and vertigo. This therapeutic approach focuses on the vestibular system, which is responsible for maintaining balance and spatial orientation. By incorporating a variety of exercises and techniques, vestibular rehabilitation aims to improve the function and coordination of the vestibular system, thus reducing symptoms such as dizziness, vertigo, and imbalance. These exercises may include gaze stabilization exercises, balance training, habituation exercises, and canalith repositioning maneuvers. Additionally, vestibular rehabilitation may also address other related symptoms such as nausea, anxiety, and fatigue. Overall, this comprehensive approach helps individuals regain their balance and improve their quality of life.

Biofeedback therapy is a valuable technique for retraining pelvic floor muscles in individuals suffering from urinary incontinence. This therapy utilizes specialized equipment to provide real-time information about the functioning of these muscles, allowing patients to gain awareness and control over their pelvic floor muscles. By using sensors and electrodes, biofeedback therapy measures various physiological parameters such as muscle tension, pressure, and electrical activity. This information is then displayed on a screen or provided through auditory cues, enabling patients to visualize and understand the specific muscle movements required for proper pelvic floor function. Through repeated sessions, individuals can learn to consciously contract and relax their pelvic floor muscles, improving their ability to control urinary flow and reduce episodes of incontinence. Additionally, biofeedback therapy can help patients identify and correct faulty muscle patterns, strengthen weak muscles, and enhance overall muscle coordination, leading to improved bladder control and a higher quality of life.

Kinesiotaping is a therapeutic technique that can significantly contribute to the rehabilitation process of ankle sprains. By applying elastic tape to the affected area, kinesiotaping provides support and stability to the ankle joint, promoting proper alignment and reducing excessive movement. This aids in the healing process by minimizing further damage and allowing the injured ligaments to recover. Additionally, kinesiotaping can help alleviate pain and inflammation associated with ankle sprains, as the tape's tension and pressure stimulate blood circulation and lymphatic drainage. The increased blood flow facilitates the delivery of essential nutrients and oxygen to the injured tissues, promoting their repair and regeneration. Moreover, kinesiotaping can enhance proprioception, which is the body's ability to sense its position and movement in space. By providing sensory feedback, the tape helps improve balance and coordination, reducing the risk of re-injury. Overall, kinesiotaping is a valuable adjunct to ankle sprain rehabilitation, offering a comprehensive approach that addresses stability, pain relief, tissue healing, and functional recovery.

Acupuncture has been suggested as a potential treatment option for alleviating symptoms of chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN). CIPN is a common side effect of chemotherapy that can cause pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness in the hands and feet. Some studies have shown that acupuncture may help reduce the severity of CIPN symptoms by stimulating specific points on the body and promoting the release of endorphins, which are natural pain-relieving chemicals. Additionally, acupuncture may improve blood circulation and nerve function, which could contribute to the alleviation of CIPN symptoms. However, more research is needed to fully understand the effectiveness of acupuncture in treating CIPN and to determine the optimal treatment protocols.

Several psychological factors can influence adherence to home exercise programs in patients with depression. One important factor is motivation, as individuals with depression may struggle with low energy levels and lack of interest in activities. Therefore, finding ways to increase motivation, such as setting realistic goals, providing positive reinforcement, and incorporating enjoyable activities into the exercise program, can enhance adherence. Another factor is self-efficacy, which refers to an individual's belief in their ability to successfully complete a task. Patients with depression may have low self-efficacy due to negative self-perceptions and past experiences of failure. Building self-efficacy through gradual progression, providing clear instructions, and offering support and encouragement can help improve adherence. Additionally, cognitive factors, such as negative thinking patterns and cognitive distortions, can impact adherence. Addressing these cognitive factors through cognitive-behavioral therapy techniques, such as cognitive restructuring and thought challenging, can help patients overcome barriers to adherence. Overall, addressing motivation, self-efficacy, and cognitive factors can significantly improve adherence to home exercise programs in patients with depression.