Winter is fast approaching and it won’t be long until Mother Nature visits with her annual “gifts” of snow, ice, and cold temperatures. If you are a homeowner, you know how challenging it is to stay on top of chores like keeping your sidewalks free of snow and ice, so they are safe and accessible for pedestrians. It is also important to keep stair and driveway areas clear, in order to avoid slips and falls. In this post, we will discuss some of the reasons why these types of chores are particularly challenging and what to do to avoid some of the pitfalls and injuries that occur most often in the wintertime.

Physical Challenges

Snow and ice present specific challenges to anyone living in cold climates. It is important to remove ice from walking areas, but sometimes in the very process of attempting to remove the ice, the homeowner slips and falls. In some cases, a fall might only result in a minor injury, but some people seriously injure themselves and end up with broken bones or perhaps even a concussion.

Even a few inches of snow can be extremely heavy to hoist, especially if it is wet snow. Not only is snow shoveling very challenging for those with back or knee issues, the simple physical exertion in the midst of cold temperatures can present a problem for those in poor physical condition. Cold temperatures cause blood vessels to constrict, thereby decreasing the blood supply to vital organs such as the heart. During physical movements like shoveling, the heart will beat faster demanding more blood, which is not as easily available from the constricted blood vessels. It is for this reason that physicians often call snow shoveling the “perfect storm” for heart attacks.

Be Honest About Your Abilities

For some people, it might be time to consider if this is the year to start getting outside help for winter chores. Chores like snow shoveling and breaking up ice are challenging physical tasks. If you’ve noticed every winter it is getting more and more difficult to properly maintain your home’s exterior, or if you have physical challenges such as lumbar (lower back) pain or are prone to slips and falls, it might be time to initiate some self-care by finding alternative ways to maintain your home.

Rather than shoveling, you might want to consider investing in some snow blowing equipment if you can afford it. Most walking snow blowers are self-propelled and there are also small tractor models available that operate much like a riding lawnmower. If you don’t want to invest in any equipment or feel that even they are too strenuous to operate, do some research to find reputable companies in your area that will plow your driveway and keep your sidewalks clean. Many people maintain their independence in their own home for decades just by getting a little help with the more difficult aspects of home ownership.

If you think you are fit enough to perform snow or ice removal chores, there are some things you can do to mitigate your chances of having a mishap. Warm up your body, just like you would do if you were going to work out. Do some stretches and jog in place for a few minutes or use a treadmill to prepare your cardiovascular system. Wear sturdy boots with good traction ability on the soles. Wear several layers of clothing rather than one bulky jacket and be sure to cover extremities like your head and your hands.

Ideally, try to get rid of any ice first so you don’t fall while trying to shovel any snow. There are many great products available that will quickly melt ice on your sidewalks, so let these types of products do the ice removal for you. If possible, try to keep up with your snow removal chores rather than letting it pile up. It is a lot easier to shovel three inches of snow rather than nine. If you have a large area to shovel, take frequent breaks, especially if the air temperature is very cold and frostbite becomes a concern. Listen to your body and don’t push it beyond its capabilities.

For more tips on how to stay safe and avoid injury during the winter season, please contact us and speak with one of our therapists to ensure your safety.

Our locations:

• Kennedy: (412)-771-1055
• Crafton: (412)-458-3445
• Allison Park: (412)-487-2787
• Bethel Park: (412) 835-2626
• Atlasburg: (724) 947-9999

Website: www.hesspt.com

Disclaimer: this information is "not medical advice" and is used at the site visitor's own risk.

Shoulder Anatomy

To understand why your shoulders hurt, it helps to know a little bit about your shoulders’ anatomy. Shoulder joints give you a wide range of motion, but this can also make them susceptible to injury. Your shoulder is a ball-and-socket joint, with the ball part located on the humerus bone and the socket part on the scapula bone. Each shoulder also has a collarbone called a clavicle. Surrounding and supporting your shoulder bones are several muscles and tendons called the rotator cuff.

1. Rotator Cuff Tendonitis

Because of its important job and the stress placed on it, your rotator cuff is very susceptible to injury. One common type of rotator cuff injury is rotator cuff tendonitis. Tendonitis simply means inflammation and swelling of tendons–the tissue that connects muscle to bone. There are several reasons rotator cuff tendons may become inflamed, including repetitive movements, sports injuries, aging, and poor posture. Many people suffer from shoulder tendonitis because of movements required by their jobs. Symptoms include swelling and pain, particularly in the front of the shoulder. Fortunately, physical therapy is a very effective treatment for rotator cuff tendonitis.

2. Rotator Cuff Tear

Another type of rotator cuff injury is a rotator cuff tear. This tear is often caused by an injury or aging. Symptoms of rotator cuff tear include weakness and pain in the shoulder. If the tear was caused by a traumatic injury, this pain can sometimes be severe. In most cases, physical therapy and other conservative approaches can help heal a rotator cuff tear. In some severe cases, surgery may be necessary.

3. Bursitis

A bursae is a fluid-filled sac that cushions the areas around many types of joints. Bursitis occurs when bursae become inflamed. According to the Mayo Clinic, bursitis normally occurs because of repetitive movements, or because of pressure put on the bursae for long periods of time. Shoulder bursitis symptoms include achiness in the joint, pain with movement and swelling. Rest, icing, physical therapy, and other conservative treatments usually help to alleviate bursitis pain.

4. Arthritis

Arthritis is joint pain caused by joint inflammation. There are several types of arthritis, the most common of which are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. In the United States, arthritis the leading cause of disability, with an estimated 50 million adults suffering from the condition. Arthritis is more common in older adults, females, and those with a family history of the condition. Symptoms of arthritis in the shoulder include pain that gets worse with activity and limited range of motion. Arthritis responds well to physical therapy and exercise.

5. Labral Tear

A tissue called a labrum helps to cushion your shoulder socket. This tissue can become torn, causing shoulder pain. Reasons for a labral tear include traumatic and overuse injury. Symptoms may include a popping sensation followed by aching and pain. Your shoulder may feel like it is catching on something when you try to move it.

What Can You Do About Shoulder Pain?

If you’re experiencing shoulder pain that doesn’t go away on its own, you should schedule an appointment with a physical therapist or doctor. All of these common causes of shoulder pain can greatly benefit from an individualized physical therapy plan. Additionally, over-the-counter non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen can help to decrease inflammation.

Conservative approaches to treating shoulder pain are often the most effective. In some severe cases, surgery or injections may become necessary, but these measures should only be taken as a last resort.

A well-trained physical therapist like the shoulder pain experts at Hess Physical Therapy can distinguish between these types of shoulder pain and create a treatment plan for you. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call any of our Hess Physical Therapy locations or refer to our website for further contact info.

Our locations:

• Kennedy: (412)-771-1055
• Crafton: (412)-458-3445
• Allison Park: (412)-487-2787
• Bethel Park: (412) 835-2626
• Atlasburg: (724) 947-9999

Website: www.hesspt.com

Disclaimer: this information is "not medical advice" and is used at the site visitor's own risk.

Has your physician given you a diagnosis of frozen shoulder? If so, you likely have been experiencing shoulder pain for some time. With this condition, pain tends to come on gradually over a period of 6-9 months. It eventually reaches the point where it becomes so difficult to move one’s shoulder that it actually seems “frozen”. In this post, we will discuss basic shoulder anatomy, how frozen shoulder develops and most importantly, how to resolve the pain, stiffness, and discomfort from this debilitating condition.

Anatomy of the Shoulder

The shoulder joint consists of three separate bones. The upper arm bone (humerus) has a bony knob that fits into the shoulder blade (scapula bone). This forms a ball-and-socket joint. The third bone, known as the clavicle or collarbone, acts as a strut and is attached to both the shoulder blade and the breastbone. Surrounding the area of the shoulder joint is a band of tissue, also known as the shoulder capsule. Synovial fluid also plays an important role in the functioning of the shoulder joint. It provides lubrication to facilitate the movement of all the components that make up the shoulder.

What is Frozen Shoulder?

Frozen shoulder, also referred to as adhesive capsulitis, occurs when the capsule surrounding the shoulder joint thickens and becomes inflamed, gradually prohibiting the free movement of the shoulder area. The capsule begins to form scar tissue and synovial fluid levels fall, both of which hinder shoulder movement even more. The first stage of frozen shoulder begins with the gradual onset of shoulder pain, typically worse during sleep, and lasts for about 6-9 months. The next stage lasts about 4-12 months and is characterized by less pain but more stiffness, making it very difficult to move one’s shoulder.

It isn’t exactly clear what causes frozen shoulder, although middle-aged women, as well as diabetics, seem to be more prone to the condition. It’s very important to receive a proper diagnosis for any shoulder pain because sometimes frozen shoulder can be confused with other medical conditions such as shoulder tendonitis or shoulder bursitis.

How Physical Therapy Helps

Physical therapy can help those experiencing shoulder pain and inflammation through a variety of treatments. Physical therapists typically employ effective treatments such as laser therapy. This helps to reduce the pain, inflammation, and stiffness associated with frozen shoulder. They will also introduce stretching exercises designed to decrease muscle tightness. This will, in turn, increase shoulder mobility. These simple but effective exercises typically become part of a specially designed at-home program, so that patients can continue to work on increasing their range of motion even when not in session with their therapist.

Exercises for Frozen Shoulder

Some of these exercises may include (Codman) Pendulum exercise. This is a gentle exercise where a patient will bend over slightly, then gently swing their arm in a circle. This allows one to introduce a natural motion to the shoulder area without the use of force.

Towel stretches are another good exercise to help increase range of motion. In this exercise, a patient will hold a towel behind their back with each hand. The patient will then gradually lift the towel using their healthy arm and shoulder. This passively bends their affected arm, with the eventual goal of reaching the mid-back region.

You may not think a lot about your shoulders–until something goes wrong with them. Pain in your shoulders can be severe, and it can limit your range of movement for everyday activities. Perhaps your doctor has mentioned a Total Shoulder Replacement. Many people find relief after this procedure and subsequent physical therapy. Here’s what you need to know about Total Shoulder Replacements.

What is a Total Shoulder Replacement, and Who Needs It?

A Total Shoulder Replacement (TSR) is a surgical procedure that replaces the joints between your shoulder and arm bones with artificial parts. It is also called Total Shoulder Arthroplasty.

There are several reasons you might need a TSR, the main one of which is severe arthritis. In simple terms, arthritis is joint inflammation. There are several types of arthritis, of which osteoarthritis, or degenerative joint disease, is the most common. This condition is characterized by the breaking down of cartilage between joints. When cartilage breaks down, movement can become very painful. This type of arthritis is most common in people over age 65.

Some patients who have experienced a traumatic injury to their shoulder joint may also benefit from a TSR. This type of injury may include a severe fracture to the upper arm bone. Doctors normally only prescribe a Total Shoulder Replacement when the patient’s quality of life is seriously impacted by their shoulder pain, and when other treatment methods have failed.

How Common is a Total Shoulder Replacement?

According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, the number of Total Shoulder Replacement procedures done in the United States has increased dramatically in recent years. In the year 2000, around 18,000 TSR procedures were performed nationwide, while over 45,000 procedures were done in 2013. The increase in TSR is likely caused by a large aging population of Baby Boomers who are experiencing severe arthritis pain in their shoulder joints.

Total Shoulder Replacement and Reverse Total Shoulder Replacement: What’s the Difference?

Your shoulder joint is a “ball and socket joint”. The ball part of the joint is located at the top of your arm bone, while the concave socket part is located on the shoulder bone. A Total Shoulder Replacement keeps the location of these joints the same, simply replacing the joint with metal or plastic pieces. In a Reverse Total Shoulder Replacement, the location of the artificial ball and socket parts of the joint are reversed, meaning that the ball is now part of the shoulder, while the socket becomes part of the arm. A Reverse Total Shoulder Replacement is often recommended for patients with torn rotator cuffs, or those with severe injuries to the “ball part” of their arm bones.

What Happens During the Surgery?

Recovering from a Total Shoulder Replacement will take some time. You will need a friend or family member to help care for you after you leave the hospital since patients are advised not to lift anything heavier than a pound for six weeks after the surgery. You will also not be able to drive a car for several weeks. With your doctor’s consent, most normal activities can be resumed after six weeks.

Rehab for TSR

In order to make sure your Total Shoulder Replacement surgery is a success, it is important to follow your doctor’s recommendations regarding physical therapy and rehabilitation. Your rehab is likely to start before you leave the hospital. There, a physical therapist may have some exercises for you to do at home to ensure your range of movement. It’s important to keep up your physical therapy once you leave the hospital. You will likely need to start an outpatient physical therapy program seven to ten days after your surgery. Most patients need to keep up a physical therapy program for several weeks.

Hess Physical Therapy works with your surgeon to create a custom physical therapy plan for your recovery. You can expect a full recovery from TSR in six to ten months. With the help of physical therapy, you can recover from your surgery and regain pain-free movement in your shoulder. This can help you live a full, normal life again.

If you have questions about recovering from a Total Shoulder Replacement or would like a Free Consult, call Hess Physical Therapy at any of our 3 convenient locations.

Our locations:

• Kennedy: (412)-771-1055
• Crafton: (412)-458-3445
• Allison Park: (412)-487-2787
• Bethel Park: (412) 835-2626
• Atlasburg: (724) 947-9999

Website: www.hesspt.com

Disclaimer: this information is "not medical advice" and is used at the site visitor's own risk.

Lower back pain can make your life miserable. It can make even the simplest movements - getting in and out of your car, tying your shoes, reaching for a pot in your lower cabinet - sheer agony. You may consider your lower back pain something that you just have to "live with", but nothing could be further from the truth! In fact, poor posture and weak muscles play a greater role in lower back pain than you might imagine.

The Posture Connection

Poor posture in the form of slumping in your chair at work for much of the day or while surfing the internet during your free time can lead to lower back problems, whether your body is 20 years old or 50-something years old. Some of us do it because we mistakenly believe that it's more comfortable to slouch, and that may be true, but it's mainly because it's a habit that's hard to break. Good seated posture, however difficult it may seem - especially when you're trying to break the "slouch" habit - is so much better for your body, and specifically for your spine. When your spine is in alignment, your muscles are working more efficiently and won't "tire" as quickly. And in truth, good posture not only makes your body feel better in the long run, it also makes you feel more confident.

Exercising Key Muscles Can Help Correct Poor Posture and Ease Low Back Pain

Strengthening your core muscles isn't just a good way to deal with a little belly flab. It can make you aware of proper spine alignment and help correct poor posture habits - both when seated and when standing. You may wonder what your abs, which are located in front of your spinal column, have to do with your back. The truth is, those abs are key supports for your spine, and when they're weak, they can't do their job properly, and the result can be pain in your lower back (aka your lumbar spine). In developing stronger core muscles, you're actually providing better support for your back, making it less susceptible to injury or strain.

Don't Forget Those Glutes!

Your gluteals (aka your butt, your booty, your "tush", etc.) are some of the largest muscles in your body. Most people exercise them in an effort to make that part of the body look tight, toned and "perky", but exercising and strengthening the gluteals (made up of three sets of muscles known as the gluteus maximus, gluteus medius, and gluteus minimus) will also benefit your lower back!

Sitting in front of a computer for hours on end (as many of us are guilty of today), results in shortened hip flexors, weak hip extensors, and glutes that don't activate the way they should, which in turn results in a classic "swayback" posture. Needless to say, that sway back isn't doing your lumbar spine any good whatsoever! Strong glutes, on the other hand, support the lower back, reducing the incidence of compression and pain in the lumbar spine.

Add Abdominal and Glute Exercises to Your Strength Training Regime

If you're suffering from lower back pain, do yourself a favor and make an appointment with a good physical therapist. He or she can show you exercises that will strengthen your core muscles including your internal and external obliques and the transverse abdominals, as well as some good exercises for the gluteals. More importantly, you'll learn how to do these exercises correctly, which in itself can prevent further injury to an already problematic part of your spine!

If you're in Allegheny or Butler County in Pennsylvania, trust the professional PTs at Hess Physical Therapy  to get you on the right track and help you reduce and even eliminate lower back pain once and for all!

Our locations:

• Kennedy: (412)-771-1055
• Crafton: (412)-458-3445
• Allison Park: (412)-487-2787
• Bethel Park: (412) 835-2626
• Atlasburg: (724) 947-9999

Website: www.hesspt.com

Disclaimer: this information is "not medical advice" and is used at the site visitor's own risk.

Back pain can make it hard to live your life. When your back hurts, bending, moving, or even just sitting can be painful.

If you’ve got back pain, you’re not alone. An estimated 80 percent of Americans will experience a back problem in their lifetime, according to the American Chiropractic Association. There are many causes of back pain, two of which are Degenerative Disc Disease and Degenerative Joint Disease. These two conditions are similar, but there are several slight differences. Here’s what you need to know about these painful conditions, and how you can start feeling better if you’re experiencing them.

 

What is Degenerative Disc Disease?

Degenerative Disc Disease (DDD) is actually not a disease. It’s a condition that affects the discs of your spine. Your spine is made up of 33 small bones called vertebrae. In between those bones are your intervertebral discs–a kind of cushion for your vertebrae made up of fibrocartilage tissue. Over time, your intervertebral discs begin to break down. Some intervertebral disc breakdown is normal due to aging. Disc breakdown can also be caused by injuries or stress on the spine. Degenerative Disc Disease occurs when your discs break down so much that it becomes painful to complete everyday tasks.

Back pain is the main symptom of DDD. This pain usually comes and goes depending on your activity level. The pain increases when you stand, walk, or lift anything. Weakness in the legs and back is another symptom of Degenerative Disc Disease.

What is Degenerative Joint Disease?

Degenerative Joint Disease (DJD) is another term for osteoarthritis–the wearing down of cartilage at the ends of your bones. This can cause your bones to rub together painfully. Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis, affecting more than 30 million people in the United States. Osteoarthritis can affect joints in any part of your body, but it most commonly causes knee pain, hip pain, hand pain, and pain in the spine.

Risk factors for Degenerative Joint Disease include age and family history. Women are more likely to get DJD than men. People who are obese are also at increased risk for the condition due to the stress that extra weight puts on their joints. Symptoms of Degenerative Joint Disease include pain, stiffness in the joints, and bone spurs. DJD also often leads to poor posture.

The Differences Between DDD and DJD

The main difference between Degenerative Disc Disease and Degenerative Joint Disease is that the conditions occur in slightly different parts of the spine. DDD affects discs directly, while DJD affects the cartilage at the ends of your vertebrae. Since DJD affects other parts of the body aside from the spine, if you are also experiencing pain in other joint areas, it could be indicative of DJD. However, the two conditions can often occur together. Fortunately, both conditions can be treated in the same way.

How Can You Treat DDD and DJD?

• Pain relievers. Taking an over-the-counter pain reliever such as ibuprofen, aspirin, or naproxen sodium can often help to alleviate your back pain. If your pain is severe, your doctor may prescribe stronger pain relief.
• Supplements. Many people with Degenerative Disc Disease and Osteoarthritis take glucosamine and chondroitin–components of cartilage. However, research has shown little effect from these supplements. Recent clinical trials have shown some success with avocado and soybean oil supplements. Talk to your doctor before beginning any supplement.
• Physical therapy. Patients with DDD and DJD can greatly benefit from physical therapy. Your physical therapist will design an individualized course of treatment. Physical therapy helps strengthen your back muscles, making movement less painful.
• Surgery. In some severe cases, surgery is considered for DDD and DJD. Surgery is only considered for patients who don’t see an improvement in their condition within three months of using more conservative methods.

If you’re experiencing back pain, Hess Physical Therapy can help! Give us a call at any of our 3 locations or refer to our website www.HessPT.com for further contact information. We can design a physical therapy plan to alleviate your pain, whether it’s caused by Degenerative Disc Disease or Degenerative Joint Disease.

Our locations:

• Kennedy: (412)-771-1055
• Crafton: (412)-458-3445
• Allison Park: (412)-487-2787
• Bethel Park: (412) 835-2626
• Atlasburg: (724) 947-9999

Website: www.hesspt.com

Disclaimer: this information is "not medical advice" and is used at the site visitor's own risk.

Many people take back health for granted until they have an episode of some form which results in strained back muscles. Only after they have spent a few miserable days trying to find a comfortable way to sit, stand and walk do they begin to appreciate how much their back muscles factor into even basic body movements. Of course, it is possible to sprain back muscles in a variety of ways including a sports injury or a fall, however, in this article, we will focus on one of the more preventable ways to avoid straining back muscles, which is to learn proper lifting techniques. With consistent use of these techniques, the average individual will greatly increase their chances of avoiding a debilitating back pain episode.

Who is Vulnerable?

Young people who are very physically fit are typically able to do very physical work such as moving furniture into a dorm room or taking a summer job working in lawn care or furniture delivery. Although a young, physically fit person is not entirely immune from incurring a back injury, those most likely to develop weak back muscles are older and much more sedentary. Over time, a sedentary lifestyle leads to weakened muscles throughout the body. Weakened muscles lead to poor posture habits, which further degrades key back muscles involved in lifting such as the paraspinal, along with the glutes (buttock muscles) and transverse abdominis muscles.

The classic scenario of a back injury involves someone who spends their entire week working at a desk job and then decides to take on a weekend warrior project such as yard work, cleaning out the garage or basement, or helping an older child move into their dorm room or first apartment. In most cases of injury, the episode produces temporary muscle spasms or a sprain, however, it is possible to incur more serious damage such as a herniated disc from engaging in improper lifting.

Lifting The Right Way

It’s always a good idea to make it a habit to use proper lifting techniques. The young and healthy can benefit from learning proper lifting techniques since even they can come across a formidable lifting situation on occasion. Learning proper lifting techniques is especially important for anyone who knows they have a “bad back” or if they lead a sedentary lifestyle.

The first step in lifting the right way is to check to see how heavy an item is before even attempting a move. If the item is very heavy, use the buddy system. It may take an additional person or two to move a very heavy item and that’s ok. For those who know they have a vulnerable back, it’s always a good idea to wear a lifting belt. Even if a person feels fairly confident about their lifting ability, it’s still a good idea to wear a belt if they know the task will involve multiple lifts.

Correct posture to lift a heavy object, Man lifting object. The actual lifting process involves not just the glutes, paraspinal and abdominal muscles, it also involves the muscles in the front and back of the thighs (quads and hamstrings), along with the biceps in the arm, and muscles in the forearms and hands. The most important step in proper lifting is to bend the knees and lift from a squatting position. Never lock the knees and try to pick something up by bending over from a standing position.

From a squatting position as close as possible to the object, grasp the object with both hands, bringing it close to the body. Maintain good posture by keeping the back perpendicular to the ground. Use the motion of straightening the legs to actually lift the object, while also tucking the stomach inward, activating those transverse abdominis muscles that are so important in core stabilization required for proper lifting.

If you would like to know more about how to avoid a back injury from lifting, please contact us at any of our of 5 offices or refer to our website www.HessPT.com for further contact info.

Our locations:

• Kennedy: (412)-771-1055
• Crafton: (412)-458-3445
• Allison Park: (412)-487-2787
• Bethel Park: (412) 835-2626
• Atlasburg: (724) 947-9999

Website: www.hesspt.com

Disclaimer: this information is "not medical advice" and is used at the site visitor's own risk.

It’s not uncommon for people to assume the human body is perfectly symmetrical, however that is not always the case. Typically, minor differences such as one ear placed a bit lower than the other, or middle fingers that are slightly different in length do not cause any health issues. However, even minor discrepancies in leg length can cause physical challenges since a person’s legs are the extremities that bear the brunt of impact during physical movement. If you are having unexplained hip, leg, or back pain, it could be stemming from a difference in leg length.

Back, Hip and Leg Anatomy

The impact of a single step involves multiple body parts — starting at the foot, traveling all the way up each leg, radiating throughout the hip area, even affecting the lower spinal area where both hips attach to the spinal column. If one leg is shorter than the other, undue pressure is placed on some of these areas, whereas other areas may weaken over time from lack of normal use. Specifically, discrepancies in leg length can cause issues with bones such as the lumbar (lower back) vertebrae, the sacrum located at the base of the spine, in addition to the pelvic innominates (hip bones). Key muscles throughout the lower back, hip, and leg area may become over or under-used. Some of the affected muscles include the pelvic floor muscles, leg muscles such as the quads and hamstrings, along with core/hip muscles such as the abdominals, obliques, paraspinals, and deep and superficial hip muscles.

Who is Vulnerable?

Some people are born with a congenital malformation where a discrepancy in leg length is noticeable at birth. Others may be born with a difference in length not necessarily significant enough to be noticeable to the naked eye, but enough to cause issues later in life, especially during the aging process. Some people may notice a difference in leg length after surgery, such as a hip replacement, or a repair from a leg fracture or broken bone. Some people may have a primary health issue in and around the back, hip or leg area, causing them to hold their body in such a way that the muscles on one side of their body tighten to the point where it causes a physical difference in leg length.

Symptoms

Individuals with different leg lengths may experience a host of physical aches and pains throughout the hip and leg area. Some people may have one leg that always seems to have tight muscles, especially the hamstrings. A person may also experience groin pain, buttock pain, SI (sacroiliac) joint pain, and/or lower back pain. Sometimes a person will feel lop-sided as they attempt to walk or perform some other physical movement. Often a person with a discrepancy in leg length will notice greater difficulty with transitional movements such as going from sitting to a standing position.

Physical Therapy Solutions

Professional physical therapy sessions can do quite a bit for patients experiencing seemingly unexplained leg, hip, or back pain. First, they can evaluate a patient’s legs to determine if length differences could be a significant contributing factor to their pain level. If a patient has an underlying issue that causes them to overuse one of their legs, a physical therapist can address the underlying issue, thus freeing the affected leg from excessive use. After identifying the root cause of any length discrepancy, a professional physical therapist can help improve stability and alignment by creating a series of exercises designed to stretch and strengthen key muscles. A physical therapist may also be able to recommend orthotic devices such as shoe inserts or specially-made shoes that will help minimize any difference in a patient’s lower extremities.

If you would like to know more about how physical therapy can help with back, hip, and leg issues, please contact Hess Physical Therapy at any of our 5 convenient locations or refer to our website www.HessPT.com for further contact info.

Our locations:

• Kennedy: (412)-771-1055
• Crafton: (412)-458-3445
• Allison Park: (412)-487-2787
• Bethel Park: (412) 835-2626
• Atlasburg: (724) 947-9999

Website: www.hesspt.com

Disclaimer: this information is "not medical advice" and is used at the site visitor's own risk.

Most people are able to engage in various positions while sleeping without much thought. However, sometimes people experience shoulder pain at night that for the most part, disappears during the day. This may be an indication they are beginning to experience some type of issue within the shoulder region. Anyone experiencing persistent shoulder pain while sleeping should seek medical attention in order to determine the exact cause of their pain.

Anatomy of the Shoulder

The shoulder joint is a ball and socket joint, where the rounded edge of the humerus (upper arm bone) fits within a shallow depression (glenoid fossa) located on the scapula, otherwise known as the shoulder blade.  The rotator cuff is a series of muscles and tendons that surround and support this area, as well as allowing movement of the arm and shoulder. The tendons of the rotator cuff are surrounded by a series of small sacs called bursa. These fluid-filled sacs provide protection and cushioning around the shoulder tendons. Sometimes these sacs or the rotator cuff tendons become inflamed and painful. In some cases, a tear occurs in a muscle or tendon that is part of the rotator cuff, and this is known as a rotator cuff tear.

Shoulder Injuries and Sleeping

People with underlying shoulder issues such as tendonitis, bursitis, or a rotator cuff tear will likely find it much more challenging to find a comfortable sleeping position, especially if they prefer to sleep on their affected shoulder.  Sleeping for hours on an injured shoulder compresses inflamed tissues, causing pain from the undue pressure. Depending upon the nature and severity of the issue, individuals may experience stiffness upon waking in the morning, a dull achy pain, numbness and/or tingling throughout the shoulder and arm area, or perhaps sharp pains radiating from the shoulder. In the initial stages of the injury, an individual may experience only pain at night which disappears during the day, leading them to believe their pain is caused by a poor-fitting pillow or mattress.  As the injury advances, some patients will start to feel shoulder pain even though they stopped sleeping on the affected shoulder.

A Diagnosis

The first step to resolve persistent shoulder pain at night is to obtain a proper diagnosis. In most cases, a physician will not suggest surgery. Instead, they will likely prescribe physical therapy as part of their first line of treatment. Depending upon the nature of the injury, a physical therapist will likely begin with pain-reducing measures such as ultrasound and gentle stretching exercises, along with suggestions on which movements and positions to avoid, both during the day and while sleeping in order to reduce pain.

Initially, many patients will find simply sleeping on their opposite side or on their back during the recovery period will completely eliminate or reduce their pain during sleep. Depending upon the injury and the level of severity, a physical therapist may suggest the patient place a towel or a thin to medium-sized pillow underneath their affected arm and shoulder arm in order to provide cushioning and support. During the day, a patient may wear a lightweight sling over each shoulder to help promote proper posture while walking and moving about, as practicing good posture helps relieve pressure on tissues so they can heal faster.

As a patient’s injury improves, a physical therapist will introduce exercises designed to restore full range of motion, followed by strengthening exercises to improve muscle strength so the shoulder joint and surrounding tissues can once again perform their tasks of motion and support. Once the patient heals and their shoulder strength returns, they will likely find their ability to sleep on their side fully restored.

Summary

If you have persistent shoulder pain while sleeping, it could be an indication of an underlying health issue. For more information, contact Hess Physical Therapy at any of our 5 locations.

Our locations:

• Kennedy: (412)-771-1055
• Crafton: (412)-458-3445
• Allison Park: (412)-487-2787
• Bethel Park: (412) 835-2626
• Atlasburg: (724) 947-9999

Website: www.hesspt.com

Disclaimer: this information is "not medical advice" and is used at the site visitor's own risk.

If you are experiencing pain where the tendons of your forearm attach to the bony bump on the inside of your elbow, you may have a condition known as golfer’s elbow. Even if you don’t play golf, this injury happens to many people over time.

What is golfer’s elbow?

Let’s start by understanding the anatomy of the elbow. The elbow is a joint. It contains three arm bones, the humerus, ulna, and radius. The ends of these bones are covered with cartilage, which allows the joints to absorb shock. The bones are held together by ligaments which form the joint capsule. The joint capsule surrounds and lubricates the joint. There is a ligament on the inside of the elbow and another on the outside of the elbow. These, together with a third ligament holding the radial head against the ulna, keep the elbow stable. The nerves in your arms pass across the elbow. They transmit sensations and tell your muscles to work.

Golfer’s elbow is usually experienced as pain in the medial, or inside, of your elbow. The pain may spread into your forearm and wrist. Your pain may grow worse during forceful arm motions, gripping and lifting.

Why does golfer’s elbow occur?

The method of injury, (MOI)  is usually chronic overuse, such as repeatedly twisting the forearm when making throwing or swinging motions. These motions may apply too much force to the area. Sometimes improper technique or equipment used in a sport can contribute to the condition.

How is golfer’s elbow diagnosed?

Diagnosis usually begins with a medical history and physical examination. A doctor may order an X-ray to rule out other possible causes of elbow pain.

Your medical professional may perform a medial epicondylitis test. During this procedure, your doctor or therapist supports the elbow with one hand, extends the elbow, wrist, and fingers and palpates the affected region. If this produces pain or discomfort, the test is considered positive. The doctor may also perform various strength, range of motion and functional mobility tests on your elbow, forearm, and wrist.

What if you are not a golfer?

In addition to golf, many activities can lead to golfer’s elbow. Sports such as racket sports, throwing sports, and weight training can all cause golfer’s elbow.  Repetitive tasks like gardening, shoveling, throwing a ball, painting and similar activities all put you at risk for golfer’s elbow. Occupations that require forceful, repetitive movements, such as construction, plumbing, and carpentry, can lead to golfer’s elbow. Other risk factors include smoking and obesity.

Physical therapy

Assessments performed by your physical therapist may be used for differential diagnosis, which helps identify other possible conditions or diseases that could be causing your symptoms. Once your physical therapist has evaluated your condition, he or she will work with you to develop a plan of care. This may include various treatments, such as:

• Ice
• Heat
• Kinesiology taping for your elbow
• Elbow bracing or support sleeves
• Ultrasound
• Electrical stimulation

Your physical therapist may prescribe some exercises designed to restore strength to your elbow and wrist, and increase your range of motion. These exercises may include:

• Exercises to increase your elbow joint mobilization
• Exercises to improve the strength and stability of your shoulder area
• Wrist flexor and extensor stretches
• Exercises to strengthen your wrist and elbow

Physical therapy may include Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM), which may help loosen tight muscles and increase your range of motion. Also, you can learn how to modify your activities to prevent future problems.

What is the difference between golfer’s elbow and tennis elbow?

Both golfer’s elbow and tennis elbow are forms of elbow tendinitis. The difference is simply that golfer’s elbow is caused by damage to tendons on the inside of the elbow, while tennis elbow is a function of tendons on the outside of the elbow.

If you have questions or concerns about possible golfer’s elbow, call Hess Physical Therapy or visit our website for further contact information.

Our locations:

• Kennedy: (412)-771-1055
• Crafton: (412)-458-3445
• Allison Park: (412)-487-2787
• Bethel Park: (412) 835-2626
• Atlasburg: (724) 947-9999

Website: www.hesspt.com

Disclaimer: this information is "not medical advice" and is used at the site visitor's own risk.