Your Local Physio in Parramatta
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Month: June 2017

physioparramatta2017June
By tbemho Uncategorized

Tennis Elbow Treatment

Tennis Elbow Treatment

Did you know, Tennis elbow is not limited to tennis players? In fact, it’s more commonly seen in non tennis players than those who hit the court on a regular basis. Tennis elbow, also known as Lateral epicondylalgia in the medical world – is caused by over use of the forearm muscles. This results in tiny microscopic tears to the tendons attaching the forearm muscles to the outside of the elbow causing pain and tenderness.

Tennis elbow is commonly seen in people who perform manual work with a repetitive component. Examples include:  bricklaying, carpentry, painting or even office work involving the use of a computer.

Symptoms

  • Pain on the outside of the elbow
  • Pain in your wrist and forearm while gripping objects or opening doors, jars, turning key
  • Pain in your forearm and wrist with wrist extension
  • Pain or tenderness around your outside elbow into your forearm and wrist
  • Pain that increases overtime

Treatment

There are a variety of treatments for Tennis elbow which can provide symptomatic relief such as

  • RICE
  • Massage to reduce swelling and muscle tension
  • Joint Mobilisation neck and elbow
  • Taping: reduces pressure on recovering muscle
  • Exercises to strengthen muscle
  • Stretches to relax tension in muscles

Get in touch with Physiotherapy Professionals Parramatta for effective tennis elbow treatment.

By tbemho Uncategorized

Headache Treatment Parramatta

Do you suffer from headaches?

Headaches

Headaches are so common these days that a lot of people think it is a normal part of life – which is not true. If you are getting headaches on a regular basis, it is a sign that something is not right. If the bones in the neck are not supporting your head properly, this can affect the nerves, muscles and blood supply to your head resulting in headaches.

Headaches can have many origins: lack of hydration, work / family stress, cold / flu symptoms, blocked sinus, fevers, infections and alcohol. Most common headache cause is a ‘primary headache’, in which the headache results from irritation from the nerves around the head and neck. Muscles tension leading to nerve irritation is thought to be responsible for up to 95% of all headaches. These kinds of headaches are often referred to as stress or tension headaches, and are called ‘primary’ as they are not symptoms of other infections or triggers.

Physiotherapists work directly on the site of pain to restore the normal function of the spine and muscles. Physiotherapists also look for surrounding areas of stiffness, muscles tension or weakness in the neck and head as sites of headache causes. This may include tight muscles in the base of the neck, at the base of the skull, or in the jaw. Using simple massage and mobilisation techniques, Physiotherapists can provide long lasting headache relief. Physiotherapy works by releasing the areas of stiffness around the head and neck, and re-training the spine to prevent further headaches. Removing the causes of spinal stress addresses both the muscle and nerve tension and the resulting headaches. Patients also find advice on posture, ergonomics and sleeping positions beneficial.

Physiotherapy is a simple, non-invasive, and most importantly a long-lasting form of headache relief that benefits all members of the family. You do not need to have current symptoms to reap the benefits of a Physiotherapy session.

Massage

A lot of people choose to get a massage when they are suffering from symptoms. Although massage is a very relaxing way to reduce your symptoms, unfortunately the symptom relief is short lived as it does not address the underlying cause of headaches. As part of your treatment, massage will be incorporated with other techniques to achieve maximal long lasting effects.

Give Physiotherapy Professionals Parramatta a call today if you would like to have your headache symptoms looked at.

By tbemho Uncategorized

Shoulder Dislocations

Shoulder Dislocations

The shoulder is the one of the most mobile and flexible joint in the body. It is held to the body through soft tissue support. The shoulder has a lot of movement and to achieve that, joint stability has to be sacrificed. It is for this reason that shoulder dislocations are a common occurrence – especially in sports.

What is a dislocation: 

A dislocated shoulder is when the head of the upper arm (humerus) is moved out of its normal position to sit outside on the outside of the shoulder socket. The level of flexibility is variable between individuals. Some individuals may be prone to shoulder dislocations due to the shape of their bones and the level of flexibility. Other people might never have a dislocated shoulder except for a traumatic injury that forces it out of position. The shoulder can dislocate in many different directions, the most common being front.

 What to do if this happens

The first time a shoulder dislocates is usually the most serious. If the shoulder doesn’t just go back in by itself , then someone will need to help to put it back in. This needs to be done by a professional as they must be able to assess what type of dislocation has occurred, and often an X-ray needs to be taken before the relocation happens. A small fracture can occur as the shoulder is being put into place, which is why it is so important to have a professional perform the procedure.

How can Physiotherapy help?

Following dislocation, your Physiotherapist can advise on how to manage your condition, on which movements you can do and what exercises to start to strengthen the damaged muscles. It is important to keep the shoulder protected for a period of time to allow damaged structures to heal as well as they can.

By tbemho Uncategorized

Ankylosing Spondylitis

What is Ankylosing Spondylitis?

Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS) is a type of inflammatory arthritis which causes inflammation and pain in the spinal joints primarily.Ankylosing Spondylitis most commonly affects the lower back region of the body, in particular the sacroiliac joints. In many cases of Ankylosing Spondylitis, inflammation within the spinal column can cause new bone to begin forming between the vertebrae. This can cause the vertebrae to fuse in various parts of the spine, typically fusing the spine in flexed forward, immobile postures. Fusion can cause increased spinal stiffness which may lead to further pain. As Ankylosing Spondylitis progresses, other areas of the body may be affected. These areas include the smaller joints within the hands and feet, as well as the ribs and shoulders. In some instances, the disease can affect other systems of the body such as the skin, lungs and eyes. The cause of Ankylosing Spondylitis is not clear, however there are markers and predisposing factors that may contribute to the development of the condition. Genetics, environment and frequent gastrointestinal infections are among the pre-disposing factors. Men are more commonly affected than women and diagnosis tends to occur between the ages of 17 and 45 years.

Symptoms:

Back pain
Stiffness
Neck and buttock pain
Common to experience active stage and remissive stage

Severity of disease is patient-dependent. Some people with Ankylosing Spondylitis may experience discomfort in the spine from time to time, while others experience severe and debilitating symptoms at frequent intervals with minimal time in remission from symptoms. Many people with ankylosing spondylitis do not seek medication attention, especially if the symptoms are mild. In these cases, the disease is not diagnosed until it has progressed, leading to increased pain and disability for the patient.

How can Physiotherapy help?

Ankylosing Spondylitis responds well to physical activity. Your Physiotherapist will assess your spinal movements and posture as well as strength and overall movement ability. They will assist you with performing appropriate stretches and strengthening exercises to maintain your posture, spinal strength and mobility. If your hands, feet, hips or shoulders are involved, they will also provide you with specific exercises to help maintain mobility and strength in those joints.

In many cases, people can participate in group exercise programs. Hydrotherapy has shown to be a beneficial way to manage symptoms caused due to Ankylosing Spondylitis. Physiotherapists are able to implement other pain relieving treatments that can help manage symptoms.

By tbemho Uncategorized

Common Ankle and Foot Injuries seen by Physiotherapists

Common Ankle and Foot Injuries seen by Physiotherapists

Ligament tear (sprained ankle)

The ligaments of the ankle hold the ankle bones and joint in position, and therefore help to stabilise the ankle joint. They protect the ankle joint from abnormal movements-especially twisting, turning, and rolling of the foot.

A sprained ankle is a common cause of ankle pain. A sprain is stretching and or tearing of ligaments. The most common is an inversion sprain where the ankle turns over so the sole of the foot faces inwards, damaging the ligaments on the outside of the ankle.

The risk of an ankle sprain is greatest during activities that involve explosive side-to-side motion, such as tennis/ basketball/netball.

Symptoms:

  • Swelling around the ankle
  • Bruising around the ankle (which can extend along the outside of the foot)
  • Pain around entire ankle joint
  • Pain on weightbearing

Syndesmosis (high ankle sprain)

A high ankle sprain is an injury to the large ligaments (called the syndesmosis) above the ankle that join together the two long bones of the lower leg. High ankle sprains commonly occur from a sudden and forceful outward twisting of the foot, which commonly occurs in contact and cutting sports such as soccer, rugby union and rugby league. The ligament can also be an associated injury with more common low ankle sprains, and even ankle fractures.

A high ankle sprain causes symptoms similar to other ankle sprains, but patients often complain of pain when the ankle is turned outwards or when the calf is squeezed.

Symptoms:

  • Pain around the front of the ankle
  • Pain when foot is turned outwards
  • Pain when calf is squeezed

Stress fractures

A stress fracture is generally an overuse injury. It occurs when muscles become fatigued or overloaded and can not absorb the stress and shock and repeated impact. Fatigued muscles transfer that stress to the nearby bone and the result is a small crack or fracture, in the bone.

Symptoms:

  • High levels of very localized pain
  • Increased pain when doing specific loaded activity
By tbemho Uncategorized

Arthritis – What is it?

Understanding Arthritis

Most people experience pain at some point in their lives, and many will assume that their joint pain is arthritis related, especially if you are in the 50+ age group. But what is arthritis? There are many different forms of arthritis which can affect both the young and old. Each type of arthritis has a different set of symptoms. Read below for common types of arthritis.

Osteoarthritis (OA)

Degeneration of the cartilage and underlying bone on weight bearing joints due to wear and tear. This leads to pain, stiffness, creation of extra bone growth – spurs, clicking or grating sensations. Symptoms occur most often in the lower back, hips, knees and even your fingers. OA and degeneration will occur in most people as they grow older, it can be made worse by poor posture, increased weight, abnormal biomechanics and poor nutrition. Doctors can diagnose most cases of osteoarthritis based on symptoms  and X-rays. Osteoarthritis is a degenerative condition, meaning it will become progressively worse over time. It is not a disease, it is part of the ageing process. If you were to look at someone older than you, they would have more wear and tear than you will simply because they have been using their bones and joints for longer than you have.

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA): 

Autoimmune disease. where the body’s immune system attacks normal tissues in the body. Constant inflammation around the joint capsule, ligaments, tendons and other soft tissues over time leads to destruction and deformity of joints.Unlike OA, RA affects small joints in the hands and feet and around the lower back. RA is characterized by periods of exacerbation and dormant stages. RA is progressive disease which become worse over time.With this type of arthritis the pain may actually get worse as you rest due to the build-up of inflammation. Blood tests and x-rays can help doctors to diagnose the condition, and treatment by a rheumatologist is central to management.

Psoriatic arthritis

Arthritis that visibly affects the skin as well as underlying joints. People tend to report symptoms such as red, white or silvery patches of dry skin, pain or discomfort in the skin, or pain in the underlying joints. The dry skin may appear on the knees, elbows, scalp, hands and feet, or on the spine. Factors that can make the symptoms of psoriasis worse include stress or anxiety, medications, exposure to excessive sunlight, smoking and alcohol, or injury to the skin.

Gout

Caused by excess uric acid within the blood stream. The uric acid forms crystals, which accumulate within the joint spaces, causing pain and inflammation. Excess uric acid is associated with a diet rich in meat, seafood, fructose and alcohol, as well as other factors including obesity, metabolic medical conditions, family history, and increased age. Gout is also associated with kidney stones and management includes changing your diet to lower uric acid levels.

Contact your GP for medical advice and management. Physiotherapy will help to guide your exercise journey and assist with other pain management strategies. helping to keep you active and healthy. Activities such as hydrotherapy, exercises and stretching have their place in maintaining correct posture and strengthening muscles appropriately to protect the body in areas of pain.

By tbemho Uncategorized

Is Your Mattress Causing Back Pain?

Is Your Mattress Causing Back Pain?

What is the best mattress to sleep on? Getting a good night’s sleep is dependent on a variety of factors, the condition of your mattress being one of them. Do you wake up with pain in your back and struggle to get into a comfortable sleeping position? Do you need to stretch first thing in the morning to make your pain better? If so, your mattress may need an upgrade.

Having a mattress with poor support can cause severe back and neck pain. A mattress which does not support you, can result in muscle strains, stiffness in your back and a poor sleeping posture. All of these factors contribute to back pain. A supportive mattress allows the structures of the spine to sit in a comfortable position, reducing the risk of lower back pain. Hence, it is vital that you choose the right mattress for your body type. With the vast variety of mattresses on the market, choosing the right mattress can prove to be difficult.

 Tips on choosing the best mattress:

A mattress that is comfortable to one person, may not be for another. It is important to identity which mattress you fell is providing you with the most comfort.

Understand what components are in the mattress. It can make choosing and buying a much easier process. As new products become available on the market, it is important to do your research or even talk to the sales person. Coils and springs in a mattress are a thing of the past!

Choosing a mattress with the most support: If your back demands a high level of support, looking at mattresses that support the natural curves of the spine would prove to be beneficial. This may improve your night’s sleep dramatically.

Don’t use old mattresses: Mattress should be replaced approximately every 5 years. As the mattress ages, the materials start to degrade, especially the coils and or the springs resulting in less support and less comfort.

Bigger is not necessarily better: Some manufactures create thicker mattresses to fool you into thinking that is comfier, this is not necessary the case. Sit on it, lie on it. See if you find it comfortable.

Physiotherapy Professionals Parramatta

By tbemho Uncategorized

Common Neck Injuries seen by Physiotherapists

Types of Neck Pain seen in Physiotherapy Clinics

Following is a summary of common neck pain seen in Parramatta by Physiotherapy Professionals Parramatta. If these symptoms sound familiar, get in touch with us today to book an appointment.

Pinched nerve

A pinched nerve is caused when a nerve is somehow damaged or injured by direct pressure or compression and is unable to properly conduct its signal. There are many potential causes for a pinched nerve, depending on the location of the nerve.

Symptoms include:

  • Tight neck muscles
  • Sharp pain
  • Burning
  • Tingling sensation in the neck, shoulder or into the arm

Acute Wry neck

A stiff neck associated with muscle spasm, is often caused by sharp movements or prolonged episodes of bad posture

Symptoms include:

  • Lack of movement in the head and neck
  • Tight muscles
  • Sharp pain

Headaches

Headaches where the pain originates in the cervical spine, neck and upper shoulders are often referred to as a cervicogenic headache. These headaches can be a byproduct of whiplash (motor vehicle accident), neck injury or muscle trauma due to poor prolonged posture or severe stress.

Symptoms include:

  • Pain which centers across the forehead/behind the eyes/ up the back of the skull
  • Tight muscles which can extend from the shoulder to the top of the neck

Poor ergonomics

Poor postural alignment can place increased stress on the structural and nerve components in the neck, leading to increased pain and discomfort in the neck, shoulder and head region.

Symptoms include:

  • Dull aching pain in the neck and shoulder without trauma
  • Tightness in the neck/shoulder region
By tbemho Uncategorized

Common Knee Injuries

Common Knee Injuries seen by Physiotherapists

Anterior Cruciate ligament tear
(common in most sports)

Injuries of the ACL range from mild such as small tears to severe when the ligament is completely torn. There are many ways the ACL can be torn; the most prevalent is when the knee is bent too much toward the back and when it goes too far to the side. Tears in the anterior cruciate ligament often take place when the knee receives a direct impact from the front while the leg is in a stable position. Torn ACL’s are most often related to high impact sports or when the knee is forced to make sharp changes in movement and during abrupt stops from high speed. Continued athletic activity on a knee with an ACL injury can have devastating consequences, resulting in massive cartilage damage, leading to an increased risk of developing osteoarthritis later in life.

Symptoms:

  • Hearing a popping sound whilst changing direction
  • Swelling
  • Instability
  • Pain at the back of the knee

Meniscal tears

Tear of a meniscus is a rupturing of one or more of the fibrocartilage strips in the knee called menisci. Can be referred to as “torn cartilage” . Menisci can be torn during innocuous activities such as walking or squatting. They can also be torn by traumatic force encountered in sports or other forms of physical exertion. The traumatic action is most often a twisting movement at the knee while the leg is bent. In older adults, the meniscus can be damaged following prolonged ‘wear and tear’ called a degenerative tear.

Symptoms:

  • Inability to fully straighten or bend the knee
  • Clicking
  • Pain going up or down stairs
  • Swelling around knee

Patello-femoral joint issues

Patello-femoral issues relate to the correct ‘fit’ or tracking on the patella within the knee joint. This can be affected by the position and structure of the patella itself, muscle strength or tight tissues.

Symptoms:

Pain in knee which worsens with going up or down stairs or when  bended for a prolonged period.

By tbemho Uncategorized

Rotator Cuff Tendon Injury

Shoulder Injury

Rotator Cuff Tendon Injury – One Of The Most Common Shoulder Injuries

One of the most common injuries to the shoulder is a rotator cuff injury. There are many causes for rotator cuff damage and Physiotherapists at Physiotherapy Professionals Parramatta will help you diagnose your injury and best management

Common causes for rotator cuff and shoulder pain:

  • Hunched shoulders due to poor posture
  • Tight chest muscles
  • Weak shoulder blade stability muscles
  • Poor sporting techniques
  • Falls onto outstretched hands
  • Repetitive over head lifting and carrying

The above mentioned reasons can irritate or damage the tendons of the rotator cuff preventing correct shoulder movement patterns. As these external pressures continually damage your tendons, it eventually develops into a tear.

Rotator Cuff Surgery

The repair process after shoulder reconstruction surgery can often be difficult, slow and confusing. Physiotherapists at Physiotherapy Professionals Parramatta have extensive experience in assisting people through their recover and progressing the rehabilitation as required. In the event of surgery to repair your rotator cuff tendons, post-operative physiotherapy will assist to restore full range of motion of your shoulder.

Activities including sports which involve repeated overhead movements, continuous strain to the rotator cuff tendons can eventually lead to tears, pain and eventually loss of motion. Rotator cuff injury is common in athletes who swim or play tennis, golf, baseball or cricket. Painters, electricians and carpenters in the building trades are also susceptible to this type of shoulder injury.

As tendons heal, there may still be stiffness and pain in the shoulder due to scar tissue formation. To restore full motion and use of the arm, the muscles of the rotator cuff need to be slowly stretched and strengthened under guidance. Physiotherapists use the latest therapeutic techniques and exercises for shoulder injuries to help you return to full strength and range of motion.