Proprioceptive feedback plays a crucial role in the fitting of a brace. Proprioception refers to the body's ability to sense its position, movement, and force of its limbs. When fitting a brace, proprioceptive feedback helps the individual to have a better understanding of their joint's position and movement. This feedback allows them to make necessary adjustments to ensure a proper fit. For example, if the brace is too tight or restrictive, the individual may feel discomfort or limited range of motion, indicating the need for adjustments. On the other hand, if the brace is too loose, they may not receive the desired support and stability. Therefore, proprioceptive feedback helps in achieving an optimal fit by providing real-time information about the brace's effect on joint alignment and movement.
When fitting a proprioceptive brace for a specific joint, several key considerations need to be taken into account. Firstly, the anatomical structure of the joint must be considered to ensure that the brace provides adequate support and stability. The brace should be designed to align with the joint's natural movement patterns and provide targeted compression to the surrounding muscles and ligaments. Secondly, the individual's specific needs and activity level should be considered. For example, a brace for a professional athlete may require a different level of support compared to a brace for a sedentary individual. Additionally, the brace should be adjustable to accommodate variations in joint size and shape. Lastly, the comfort and ease of use should be considered to ensure that the individual can wear the brace for extended periods without discomfort or hindrance to their daily activities.
Erson tells a story of getting back to rock climbing after a 20 year break. After a finger injury that wasn't healing, he got some totally unexpected great advice from another climber. What do you think of the solution and has anything similar ever happened to you? Untold Physio Stories is sponsored byThe Eclectic Approach Network - Check out Dr. E's all new private, non tracking and ad free network for rehab pros! It's free to join, has chat, feed, and all the features of other social networks without the creeping tracking.Check 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 2023-07-06
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
The design of a proprioceptive brace has a significant impact on its fitting and effectiveness. The brace should be anatomically contoured to match the shape of the joint and provide targeted support to the surrounding structures. It should have adjustable straps or closures to allow for a customized fit and compression. The material used should be breathable, lightweight, and durable to ensure comfort and longevity. Additionally, the brace should incorporate features that enhance proprioceptive feedback, such as strategically placed pressure points or textured surfaces. These design elements help to optimize the brace's fitting by promoting proper alignment, stability, and sensory input to the joint.
Fitting a proprioceptive brace for individuals with different body types can present challenges. Body size and shape variations can affect the brace's fit and effectiveness. For example, individuals with larger or smaller joints may require custom-sized braces to ensure proper alignment and support. Additionally, individuals with different body compositions, such as higher muscle mass or body fat, may require adjustments to accommodate their unique needs. It is important for healthcare professionals to consider these factors and have access to a range of brace sizes and options to provide an optimal fit for individuals with different body types.
The fitting process for a proprioceptive brace differs from other types of braces in several ways. Unlike functional braces that aim to restrict movement, proprioceptive braces are designed to enhance joint awareness and provide sensory feedback. Therefore, the fitting process for a proprioceptive brace focuses on achieving a balance between support and freedom of movement. It involves assessing the individual's joint alignment, range of motion, and proprioceptive abilities. The brace is then adjusted to provide the desired level of support and compression while allowing the individual to maintain their natural movement patterns. This fitting process requires a thorough understanding of the individual's specific needs and the principles of proprioception.
The expertise of the healthcare professional plays a crucial role in ensuring a proper fit for a proprioceptive brace. Healthcare professionals, such as orthotists or physical therapists, have the knowledge and skills to assess the individual's joint function, alignment, and proprioceptive abilities. They can accurately determine the appropriate size and type of brace based on the individual's specific needs and activity level. Additionally, healthcare professionals can provide guidance on how to properly wear and adjust the brace for optimal effectiveness. Their expertise ensures that the brace fits correctly, provides the desired support, and enhances proprioceptive feedback, leading to improved joint stability and function.
To ensure an optimal fit for a proprioceptive brace, specific techniques and measurements are used. These may include measuring the circumference and length of the joint, assessing joint alignment and range of motion, and evaluating proprioceptive abilities through various tests and exercises. Additionally, healthcare professionals may use pressure mapping or sensory feedback devices to assess the brace's effect on joint alignment and movement. These measurements and techniques help to customize the fit of the brace and ensure that it provides the desired level of support and proprioceptive feedback. Regular follow-up appointments may also be scheduled to reassess the fit and make any necessary adjustments to optimize the brace's effectiveness.
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.
Reflexology, a complementary therapy that involves applying pressure to specific points on the feet, hands, or ears, has been suggested as a potential treatment for alleviating symptoms of peripheral neuropathy. While there is limited scientific evidence to support its effectiveness, some studies have shown promising results. The theory behind reflexology is that certain points on the feet correspond to specific organs or systems in the body, and by stimulating these points, it can help improve circulation, reduce pain, and promote relaxation. However, it is important to note that reflexology should not be used as a substitute for medical treatment, and individuals with peripheral neuropathy should consult with their healthcare provider before trying reflexology or any other alternative therapies.
Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) has been found to have a significant impact on pain perception in individuals with osteoarthritis. TENS works by delivering low-voltage electrical currents to the affected area, which stimulates the nerves and disrupts the pain signals being sent to the brain. This modulation of pain perception is achieved through the activation of various mechanisms, including the gate control theory, endogenous opioid release, and the activation of descending inhibitory pathways. By targeting the specific pain pathways involved in osteoarthritis, TENS can effectively reduce pain intensity and improve overall pain management in these individuals. Additionally, TENS has been shown to have a positive effect on other symptoms associated with osteoarthritis, such as stiffness and physical function, further enhancing the overall treatment outcomes.
Acupuncture has been suggested as a potential treatment for tension headaches due to its various benefits. One of the main advantages is its ability to stimulate the release of endorphins, which are natural painkillers that can help alleviate headache symptoms. Additionally, acupuncture may improve blood circulation and reduce muscle tension, both of which are common contributors to tension headaches. By targeting specific acupuncture points, this alternative therapy can also help regulate the flow of energy in the body, promoting overall well-being and potentially reducing the frequency and intensity of tension headaches. Furthermore, acupuncture is a non-invasive and drug-free approach, making it a safe option for individuals seeking natural remedies for their headaches.