Traction therapy is a non-surgical treatment that works to relieve spinal compression by gently stretching the spine. It involves applying a pulling force to the spine, which helps to create space between the vertebrae and alleviate pressure on the discs and nerves. This pulling force can be applied manually by a therapist or through the use of mechanical devices. By decompressing the spine, traction therapy can help to improve blood flow, reduce inflammation, and promote the healing of injured tissues. It can also help to realign the spine and improve overall spinal function.
Traction therapy can offer several potential benefits for herniated discs. When a disc herniates, the soft inner material of the disc protrudes through a tear in the outer layer, causing pain and compression of nearby nerves. Traction therapy can help to relieve this compression by creating space between the vertebrae and allowing the herniated disc to retract. This can help to reduce pain, improve mobility, and promote the healing of the disc. Additionally, traction therapy can improve the flow of nutrients and oxygen to the disc, which can aid in its repair and regeneration.
Back pain is a common ailment that many of us have experienced at some point in our lives. One specific type of back pain, known as discogenic low back pain (LBP), is characterized by pain originating from the intervertebral discs (IVDs) in the spine. Despite extensive research, the exact causes of discogenic LBP have remained elusive. However, a recent study conducted by Seiji Ohtori and his colleagues sheds new light on the underlying mechanisms of this condition.Animal Models and Discogenic LBP:Through the use of animal models, researchers have made significant discoveries regarding discogenic LBP. They have found that sensory nerves grow into the inner layer of the lumbar IVDs, and this nerve ingrowth is induced by certain inflammatory substances called cytokines. These cytokines, such as tumor necrosis factor-α and interleukins, stimulate the ingrowth of sensory nerves into the discs. Moreover, nerve growth factor has been identified as a key player in inducing this nerve ingrowth. Animal models have also revealed that disc degeneration triggers the production of collagenases, enzymes that break down collagen, leading to hypermobility and pain. Sinuvertebral NervesUnveiling Human Discogenic LBPFurther insights into the mechanisms of discogenic LBP have been gleaned from the examination of degenerated human IVD specimens. These specimens have revealed sensory innervation and nerve ingrowth, similar to what has been observed in animal models. The presence of cytokines in human discs suggests a shared mechanism with animal models. This indicates that the findings from animal studies can be applied to human patients as well. In addition to sensory innervation and cytokine involvement, sensitization of sensory nerve fibers innervating the IVDs is a crucial factor in discogenic LBP. When these nerve fibers become sensitized, they become more responsive to pain stimuli, leading to heightened pain perception.Psychosocial factors also play a role in the perception and experience of pain associated with discogenic LBP. Factors such as stress, anxiety, depression, and social support can influence an individual’s pain experience. Understanding the interplay between these psychosocial factors and the physiological aspects of discogenic LBP is important in developing comprehensive treatment approaches.Tackling Discogenic LBP: Treatment ApproachesUnderstanding the underlying pathomechanisms of discogenic LBP opens up avenues for potential treatment strategies. To effectively manage this condition, it is crucial to prevent sensitization of sensory nerve fibers within the IVDs. This can be achieved through targeted interventions that aim to suppress the pathogenic increases of cytokines. By reducing the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as tumor necrosis factor-α and interleukins, the ingrowth of sensory nerves into the discs can be controlled, thereby reducing pain.In addition to cytokine regulation, addressing disc hypermobility is an essential aspect of treating discogenic LBP. Hypermobile discs can magnify pain and further damage the disc structure. Treatment options such as physical therapy and specific exercises can help stabilize the spine, reduce hypermobility, and alleviate pain. Other interventions, such as spinal manipulative therapy and epidural steroid injections, may also be considered in certain cases to manage pain and promote healing.Conclusion:Discogenic low back pain is a complex condition with multiple underlying mechanisms. The research conducted by Seiji Ohtori and his colleagues has provided valuable insights into the pathomechanisms of this condition, highlighting the role of sensory nerve ingrowth, cytokines, and disc hypermobility. By understanding these mechanisms, health professionals can develop more targeted treatment approaches to help patients suffering from discogenic LBP.One innovative product that aids in the understanding and communication of discogenic LBP is the Professional LxH Dynamic Disc Model by Dynamic Disc Designs. This model accurately represents the structure and function of the intervertebral discs, allowing health professionals to visually demonstrate the impact of disc degeneration, nerve ingrowth, and hypermobility to their patients. By using this model during patient consultations, health professionals can help individuals better comprehend the nature of their condition and the rationale behind the recommended treatment approaches.Check out MMT's Exclusive Blue Nucleus model!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 2023-07-31
Andrew is back talking about a colleague's recent case. This is a new grad, only practicing for 5 weeks or so, but kudos to his differential diagnosis skills and applying the Wells Criteria for Pulmonary Embolism. If you're not familiar with it, its something you should keep in the back of your mind, especially with post op patients, those who have been recently immobilized, or with history of Cancer or PE. 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 2023-07-26
Collagen Supplementation for Joint Pain and Arthritis: Does it Really Work?By Dr. Sean M.Wells, DPT, PT, OCS, ATC/L, CSCS, NSCA-CPT, CNPT, Cert-DNRecently I was presenting at the annual conference of Athletic Trainers' Association of Florida (ATAF) and I was overwhelmed by one consistent question: why didn't you talk about collagen supplementation? My talk was specifically on orthopedics for older adults and naturally I focused on osteoarthritis (OA) and how important exercise and diet are for that condition. I did touch on some supplementation, but I left off collagen because my last examination of this supplement, using one of my favorite websites Examine.com, yielded mediocre results. However the participants at the sports medicine conference piqued my interest and convinced me that perhaps I had missed something -- almost every single one of these participants had some form of joint pain or stiffness and felt significantly better after taking collagen daily. So, back to the literature, and asking some of my clients, I went!What is Collagen?Collagen is a protein found in the body that provides structure and support to various tissues, including joints, bones, tendons, and ligaments. It may play a role in maintaining joint health and may have potential benefits for individuals with joint pain. A few small-scale studies have shown positive results in reducing joint pain and improving joint function when individuals with osteoarthritis took collagen supplements. These studies often used specific collagen formulations, such as collagen peptides or hydrolyzed collagen, which are broken down into smaller peptides for better absorption by the body. However, it's important to note that the findings of these studies are not yet conclusive, and more robust research is necessary.The ResearchIt's worth mentioning that joint pain can have various causes, and collagen supplementation may not be effective for everyone. Factors like age, underlying health conditions, overall diet, and lifestyle habits can also influence joint health. For instance, a meta-analysis on collagen supplementation for OA showed improvements in the WOMAC, a functional score for knee arthritis, but it didn't yield significant results for knee pain. Meanwhile, another review article looking at collagen supplementation for joint pain, muscle protein synthesis, and body composition found that collagen did significantly reduce joint pain (it had effect on the other metrics). Here's a nice table listed in the article:The joint pain included in the review included knee pain and Achilles tendinopathy, all predominately in an athletic population. Another glaring observation is several of these studies included physical therapy and exercise prescriptions with the supplementation (Yay! Nutrition and Physical Therapy), which can also alter the results and effects of collagen as well. It's important to see the doses varied in the studies from 5, 10, to 40 grams per day; moreover, the collagen can come in varying form from peptides, hydrolyzed proteins, to denatured collagen. Having such variability in the type of collagen also likely explains the variability in responses and data.DosingSo, roughly how much and what type of collagen should a client take? Well, many studies have used dosages ranging from 8 to 12 grams of collagen peptides or hydrolyzed collagen per day for joint-related benefits. Research suggests that type II collagen supplementation may help reduce joint pain and improve joint function in individuals with arthritis, particularly osteoarthritis. It is believed to work by helping to restore and support cartilage health, potentially reducing inflammation and promoting joint mobility. It's important to note that collagen supplements are available in various forms, such as powders, capsules, and liquids, and their concentration of collagen can vary. Therefore, it's crucial to follow the manufacturer's instructions and consult with a healthcare professional to determine the appropriate dosage for your specific needs.It's also worth mentioning that collagen supplements are often combined with other ingredients, such as vitamins, minerals, or herbal extracts, which may influence their effectiveness. If you decide to try collagen supplementation for joint pain, it's a good idea to choose a reputable brand and look for products that have been tested for quality and safety. I suggest using Labdoor.com to help you or your client find a high-quality collagen supplement, if and when appropriate.SummaryIn the end, perhaps the participants at the ATAF conference were right -- there is something to say about collagen and joint pain. Not every study is exact and more research needs to be done on what dose, what age, what condition, and what exercises should be done with the collagen -- but that's why we practice physical therapy! Love to hear your thoughts and maybe some of your clients' responses to collagen. 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! Earn CEUs in most states for PTs! 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
![[RESEARCH] Collagen Supplementation for Joint Pain and Arthritis: Does it Really Work?](https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNRlO03OFOpdytY9td2mMDwpqFwMqHyUpqlQukvulwJkAaq6-RVGwr1keXUlLXifkdyTTWv66um_-YJFeEDqBBymiw14ZWWFPPem3W4DZrzncQYGpZkWWsxSuZhi6eaJN19b1AkC6SMBeCDeEBF1DYueqVTCUD80jq5SJkKqc2Tokr3FWbElnPb8LbnhP0/s16000/knee%20oa.jpg)
Posted by on 2023-07-24
In this episode, Erson goes over a tough case of constant and flared up cervical pain with radiating complaints. What do you think of his solution? Have you ever had a similar case that responded to sustained holds better than repeated loading or traditional techniques? 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 2023-07-17
Yes, traction therapy can help with sciatica pain. Sciatica is a condition characterized by pain that radiates along the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back down the back of each leg. This pain is often caused by compression or irritation of the nerve roots in the lower spine. Traction therapy can help to relieve this compression by stretching the spine and creating space between the vertebrae. By doing so, it can alleviate pressure on the affected nerve roots and reduce sciatica pain. Traction therapy can also help to improve the overall health and function of the spine, which can contribute to long-term relief from sciatica symptoms.
While traction therapy is generally considered safe, there are some risks and potential side effects associated with the treatment. These can include muscle soreness or stiffness, temporary aggravation of symptoms, and skin irritation or bruising at the site of traction. It is important for individuals considering traction therapy to consult with a healthcare professional to determine if they are a suitable candidate for the treatment and to discuss any potential risks or side effects. Additionally, traction therapy should be performed by a trained professional to ensure proper technique and minimize the risk of injury.
The duration of a typical traction therapy session can vary depending on the individual and the specific treatment plan. Generally, a session can last anywhere from 15 to 30 minutes. The frequency and duration of traction therapy sessions will be determined by the healthcare professional based on the individual's condition and response to treatment. It is important to follow the recommended treatment plan and attend all scheduled sessions to achieve the best possible results.
Traction therapy can be beneficial for various types of back pain, but it may not be suitable for all individuals or conditions. It is most commonly used for conditions such as herniated discs, degenerative disc disease, spinal stenosis, and sciatica. However, it may not be recommended for individuals with certain medical conditions, such as fractures, infections, or tumors in the spine. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional to determine if traction therapy is appropriate for your specific condition and to discuss any potential risks or contraindications.
The main difference between manual traction therapy and mechanical traction therapy lies in the method of applying the pulling force to the spine. Manual traction therapy involves a therapist using their hands to apply the pulling force, typically by holding onto the patient's head or body and gently pulling in a controlled manner. Mechanical traction therapy, on the other hand, utilizes specialized devices or machines to apply the pulling force. These devices can be adjusted to provide a specific amount of force and can be programmed to deliver a consistent and controlled traction. Both manual and mechanical traction therapy can be effective in relieving spinal compression, but the choice of method may depend on the individual's condition, preferences, and the expertise of the healthcare professional.
Hydrotherapy, also known as aquatic therapy, has been shown to be an effective treatment option for improving range of motion in patients with frozen shoulder. This therapeutic approach involves performing exercises and movements in a pool or other water-based environment. The buoyancy of the water reduces the effects of gravity on the body, allowing for easier movement and decreased stress on the joints. Additionally, the warmth of the water can help to relax muscles and increase blood flow, promoting healing and reducing pain. Hydrotherapy exercises for frozen shoulder often focus on gentle stretching and strengthening of the affected shoulder joint, targeting specific muscles and tendons involved in shoulder movement. By incorporating hydrotherapy into a comprehensive treatment plan, patients with frozen shoulder can experience improved range of motion, decreased pain, and enhanced overall function.
Vibration therapy has been studied extensively for its effects on bone density in postmenopausal women. Numerous research studies have shown that this therapy can have a positive impact on bone health in this population. The vibrations generated by the therapy stimulate the bone cells, leading to increased bone formation and decreased bone resorption. This results in improved bone mineral density and reduced risk of osteoporosis-related fractures. Additionally, vibration therapy has been found to enhance muscle strength and balance, which are important factors in maintaining bone health. Overall, the use of vibration therapy in postmenopausal women has shown promising results in improving bone density and reducing the risk of osteoporosis.
The Alexander Technique has a profound impact on vocal production and performance in singers. By focusing on body alignment, breath control, and tension release, the technique helps singers achieve optimal vocal function and efficiency. Through the use of specific exercises and hands-on guidance, the Alexander Technique teaches singers to align their body in a way that allows for unrestricted airflow and optimal vocal resonance. This leads to improved vocal projection, clarity, and range. Additionally, the technique helps singers release unnecessary tension in the body, particularly in the neck, jaw, and throat, which can inhibit vocal production. By promoting a relaxed and balanced state, the Alexander Technique enables singers to access their full vocal potential and expressiveness, enhancing their overall performance on stage.
Breathing exercises play a crucial role in pulmonary rehabilitation for patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). These exercises aim to improve lung function, increase respiratory muscle strength, and enhance overall breathing efficiency. By engaging in specific breathing techniques such as diaphragmatic breathing, pursed-lip breathing, and controlled breathing, patients with COPD can optimize their oxygen intake, reduce breathlessness, and enhance their ability to perform daily activities. Additionally, breathing exercises can help patients manage anxiety and stress associated with their condition, improve their quality of life, and reduce the frequency and severity of exacerbations. Overall, incorporating breathing exercises into pulmonary rehabilitation programs for COPD patients is essential for enhancing respiratory function and promoting better overall well-being.
Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) is a non-invasive technique that has been used to modulate pain perception in individuals with fibromyalgia. TENS works by delivering low-frequency electrical currents through electrodes placed on the skin, which stimulates the sensory nerves and activates the body's natural pain control mechanisms. This stimulation leads to the release of endogenous opioids, such as enkephalins and endorphins, which act as natural painkillers. Additionally, TENS may also activate the descending pain inhibitory pathways, which involve the release of neurotransmitters like serotonin and norepinephrine. These neurotransmitters help to dampen the transmission of pain signals in the central nervous system, thereby reducing pain perception in individuals with fibromyalgia. Overall, TENS provides a multi-modal approach to pain management in fibromyalgia by targeting both the peripheral and central mechanisms involved in pain perception.