Self Test Videos Archives | TruMove Physical Therapy (Overland Park)

Treat Yourself: Back Pain

Prosoft Phils — Wed, 05 Sep 2018 08:52:15 +0000

Low back pain can refer to the upper back, abdomen, hips, down the legs and into the foot. Some of the pain comes from muscular trigger points which can easily be treated by physical therapists. Other pain comes from nerve irritation. If you notice numbness, tingling or an onset of weakness in the legs or feet, please see a physical therapist to assess your symptoms. If your pain is accompanied by the loss of bowel or bladder control, please seek emergency care immediately.

Statistics show that 80% of the population will suffer from back pain at some point in their lives. Whether the pain is acute or chronic, it is not something to be ignored. At TruMove, we are here to help alleviate low back pain and hopefully prevent future injury through movement-based exercises.

COMMON CAUSES OF LOW BACK PAIN

While sources of low back pain vary, there are causes that seem to be more prevalent than others. Among these are poor posture, repetitive activities (lifting, bending, carrying, sitting down), prolonged positions (driving, office/desk work, standing, sitting), and sudden trauma (falls, sports injuries, car accidents).

SYMPTOM PRESENTATION

25% of people in the U.S. report that they have experienced low back pain within the last 3 months. Symptoms may include stiffness when trying to move, a feeling of being stuck in a position (stooped forward), difficulty getting out of a chair or bed, and may even lead to muscle spasms. The pain may be dull, burning or sharp and can be felt from a single point of origin or in a broad band across the back.

PREVENTION

Exercise has been linked to a 35% reduction in the risk for low back pain. Stay active and continue normal activities if possible—bed rest can slow down recovery. Maintain good body positioning at work, home, and during leisure activities. Use proper body mechanics when lifting, keeping the load close to your body. Ask for help before lifting heavy objects. Keep moving—consistent physical activity will improve your fitness level and emotional state of mind, keeping you healthier and happier.

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Treat Yourself: Shoulder Pain

Prosoft Phils — Wed, 05 Sep 2018 08:24:23 +0000

Shoulder pain can refer to the neck, middle back, elbow, arm and hand. Some of the pain comes from muscular trigger points which can easily be treated by physical therapists. Numbness, tingling or burning may not always signal nerve irritation—please see a physical therapist to assess your symptoms.

Whether it is acute or chronic, shoulder pain can significantly impact your daily life, turning the simplest tasks into big challenges as your arm mobility is reduced. At TruMove, we are here to help alleviate shoulder pain and hopefully prevent future injury through movement-based exercises.

COMMON CAUSES OF SHOULDER PAIN

While sources of shoulder pain vary, there are causes that seem to be more prevalent than others. Among these are poor posture, repetitive activities (lifting, reaching, typing, overhead movements), overuse causing movement impairments, sudden trauma (falls or sports injuries), and poor rotator cuff or shoulder blade strength.

SYMPTOM PRESENTATION

Those who are most likely to be affected by shoulder pain are athletes who use overhead movements, manual labor professionals, and those who sit at a desk or in a vehicle for prolonged periods of time. Symptoms may include restricted shoulder motion overhead, behind the body, or reaching to the side. Pain may occur while sleeping on the affected side, throwing, or reaching overhead.

PREVENTION

Maintaining proper strength in the shoulder and shoulder blade muscles is key in preventing injury. It is also of great importance to maintain proper posture and shoulder alignment when reaching and throwing. Avoid forward-head and rounded-shoulder postures when working at a computer, texting, or driving for prolonged periods. Keep your muscles flexible by regularly stretching the shoulders, neck, and middle back. Keep moving—physical activity will improve your fitness level and emotional state of mind, keeping you healthier and happier.

The post Treat Yourself: Shoulder Pain appeared first on TruMove Physical Therapy (Overland Park).

Treat Yourself: Neck Pain

Prosoft Phils — Tue, 04 Sep 2018 10:01:01 +0000

While sources of neck pain vary, there are causes that seem to be more prevalent than others including poor posture, repetitive activities, prolonged positions, and sudden trauma. Adults ages 30-50 years are most likely to be affected by neck pain and women are typically more susceptible than men. Neck pain symptoms include pain when looking over a shoulder, inability to rotate or bend the neck, or inability to remain in one position for a long period of time. Neck pain may be sharp, stabbing, dull, aching, throbbing or tingling. It can even lead to tension headaches. Neck pain also may refer to the jaw, upper back, shoulders, arms or hands.

The post Treat Yourself: Neck Pain appeared first on TruMove Physical Therapy (Overland Park).