Your Local Physio in Parramatta
Visit our Location
12 Ada St, Harris Park 2150
Give us a Call
0479 080 800
Send us a Message
[email protected]
Opening Hours
Mon - Fri: 8 am - 7 pm

Year: 2017

physioparramatta2017
By tbemho Uncategorized

Calf Pain And Running

Calf Pain and Running

Calf pain while running can have many different causes. Most common presentation at Physiotherapy Professionals Parramatta include:

  • Shoe type – inappropriate shoe selection for your foot can make a big difference to calf pain. Wearing the right shoes can help align your foot correctly, which reduces the amount of stress on your calf muscles. Resulting in a reduced risk of calf injury
  • Shoe age – How old are your shoes? Do you remember when you bought them or is it too long ago to remember? Your shoes are supposed to last between 12-24 months. Even though the shoes look in good condition from the outside, the fabric and rubber will loose their support over time and use. There is no hard and fast rule. Someone who runs a lot or is generally speaking more active will wear out the shoes quicker than someone who is not as active.
  • Muscle tightness – Tight calf muscles will lead to a muscle injury. Stretches should be done before and after every run or exercise routine.
  • Running technique and muscle imbalances – This is best assessed by your Physiotherapist to determine if you are inappropriately loading your calf muscles.

If you are struggling with recurrent calf injuries, get in touch with Physiotherapy Professionals Parramatta to have your injury properly assessed and treated.

By tbemho Uncategorized

Could your driving posture be causing pain?

Could your driving posture be causing pain?

With the number of hours we spend in our cars commuting to and from Parramatta it could be possible that your driving posture is causing your symptoms. Common symptoms experienced by drivers include neck, shoulder, lower back and foot pain.

  • Before you get into the car, empty your pockets – especially your back pockets, remove your jacket. Remove your wallets, phone and keys and ensure your clothing is not restrictive.
  • Adjust the seat so that you’re not having to reach too far forward on the steering wheel
  • Ensure you can visually see the road. If not, move the seat forward you should have a slight bend in your knee and be able to easily control the foot pedals
  • Fix the tilt on your seat – you want to keep your spine upright by correcting the backrest position. Using small car pillows is a great way of correcting your spine position.
  • Steering wheel position: Your arm and wrist should be comfortably on the top of the wheel without reaching forward. Keep both hands on the wheel to stop any twisting or side bending in sitting.
  • Mirrors: Adjust your mirrors last to prevent any twist of the spine, neck protraction or leaning forward with the body.
  • Foot placement: common areas of pain can be your heel or the ball of the foot. If you rest your foot on the floor this could lead to heel pain. Ensure that your foot is straight and use shoes that have cushioning around the heel. If pain is persisting once you stop driving this could indicate there is another underlying issue that may need to be treated. Pain in the ball of your foot is generally due to the contact point of the pedal, and is can be influenced by shoe choice. Ensure to wear comfortable shoes or implement gel padding if necessary to the pressure through the foot.

Even once you have established a good sitting position it is important to ensure you take regular breaks. For long distance drives take a minimum of 10-15 min breaks every 2 hours. When you stop ensure to walk and perform stretches. When you return to driving, recheck and adjust your sitting posture to alleviate your current symptoms.

If pain still persists, seek treatment from your Physiotherapist.

By tbemho Uncategorized

Pins and Needles

Pins and Needles

Pins and Needles, also known as Paresthesia in medical terminology, is a strange sensation of prickling or tingling pain most commonly felt in the hands and feet.

We’ve all experienced it at least once, where we have been sitting in the same position for a bit too long and that particular body part has fallen asleep. This sensation occurs due to compression which causes the blood supply to be reduced to that area. This is a common occurrence and should not be the cause for alarm. However if pins and needles occur on a regular basis, it could be an indication of something more serious.

In some cases pins and needles result due to nerve compression or disorders of the central nervous system. Our nerves are responsible for sensation and muscle strength around our body. When any one of these nerves becomes pinched or compressed, it obstructs the communication that the brain has with that muscle, which in turn causes the tingling or pins and needles sensation. Even only a small amount of pressure being applied can cause pins and needles to occur.

Depending on the level of nerve compression, symptoms may range from tingling, to complete numbness as well as muscular weakness. Either end of the spectrum it is very important that you seek the attention of a Physiotherapist immediately. It is important that you have yourself assessed to determine what is causing the pinching of the nerves. Some common conditions which involve a pinched nerve are:

  • Bulging discs
  • Carpal tunnel syndrome
  • Fibromyalgia
  • Scoliosis
  • Degenerative Disc disease
  • Bad posture
  • Arthritis
  • Thoracic outlet syndrome

Here at Physiotherapy Professionals Parramatta we treat many patients who experience varying levels of pins and needles. Many of whom suffer from any one of the above mentioned conditions. We have a range of treatment options available and can’t stress enough how important it is to seek treatment for recurring pins and needles. For an appointment call and speak to our highly trained staff today.

By tbemho Uncategorized

Conditions seen by a Physiotherapist

How can Physiotherapy help?

Physiotherapy Injury Treatment: Physiotherapy can be beneficial for a wide range of injuries. Some of them are listed below. If you have been struggling with an ache or pain which just wont’ go away, get in touch with us today and see how we can help you.

  • Headaches
  • Neck pain
  • Whiplash – Motor vehicle accident (MVA)
  • Shoulder pain
  • Rotator cuff injuries
  • Rib Pain
  • General low back pain
  • Lumbar disc injuries
  • Sciatic referred pain
  • Shin splints
  • Tendon injuries
  • Running related injuries
  • Patellofemoral pain
  • Osteoarthritis
  • Complex ankle injuries
  • And many more!

Get in touch with Physiotherapy Professionals Parramatta today. Your local Physiotherapy clinic. Appointments available 6 days a week. Walking distance from Parramatta and Harris Park stations.

By tbemho Uncategorized

Do I need a referral to see a Physiotherapist?

Referrals are not necessary

Physiotherapists are primary health practitioners, patients do not need to visit a GP or a doctor before visiting a Physiotherapist.

However there are certain circumstances where a doctor’s referral is required. If you have had a motor vehicle accident and your Physiotherapy treatment is being covered by CTP insurance (compulsory third party insurance), a doctor’s referral is required along side an approval letter from the insurance company.

Similarly if you have had an injury at work and your Physiotherapy treatment is being covered by WorkCover (Now known as SIRA – State Insurance Regulatory Authority), you will require a referral from your GP and an approval letter from the insurance company.

If you are being treated under Medicare, you will also need a referral. Medicare provides limited Physiotherapy coverage under the Australian healthcare system. If you are eligible for treatment, your GP will have to provide you with an EPC (Enhanced Primary Care) referral before treatment can begin.

If you are have private health insurance or a private paying patient, no referrals are required. We can communicate directly with your GP and keep them updated with your progress.

Patient Centered Care

Even if your doctor has given you a referral to see another Physiotherapist, you are still entitled to choose any Physiotherapist you wish. Simply bring the referral in with you to your first session and we will let the referring doctor know that you have commenced treatment with us.

Physiotherapists can also issue attendance certificates which can only be issued after you have been seen by a Physiotherapist.

For more information call us on 0479 080 800 or 0479 080 800 for more information. Our clinic is located at 12 Ada Street, Harris Park. Five minutes walk from Parramatta and Harris Park stations. On site parking available.

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