A large study recently published in the British Medical Journal finds that active commuting, particularly biking and walking, is associated with multiple health benefits.1 Results show people who cycle to work have a 46 percent lower risk of heart disease and a 45 percent lower risk of cancer compared to those who have a sedentary […]
While most people have an idea of what physical therapy is, many may not realize the wide variety of conditions physical therapists can treat. Physical therapy is commonly associated with rehabilitating injuries and aiding recovery after surgery. While that is a big part of what the profession handles, there is much more to physical therapy […]
Most physical therapy and rehabilitation programs have patients do exercises at home as part of the recovery and long-term maintenance. Adherence to home exercise in rehabilitation is a significant problem, with estimates of nonadherence as high as 50%, potentially having a detrimental effect on clinical outcomes.1 It’s important to stay on top of home exercises, […]
Patellofemoral syndrome is a common source of knee pain. In fact, according to the American Academy of Family Physicians, patellofemoral syndrome is the most common cause of knee pain. It’s usually known as runner’s knee or jumper’s knee. This is because it’s often seen in athletes, but it can happen to anyone. The telltale sign […]
Falls are a marker of frailty, immobility, and acute and chronic health impairment in older persons. Falls in turn diminish function by causing injury, activity limitations, fear of falling, and loss of mobility. Most injuries in the elderly are the result of falls; fractures of the hip, forearm, humerus, and pelvis usually result from the […]
The shoulder is one of the most mobile joints in the body. Unlike most other joints in the body, the shoulder is held in alignment almost entirely by the strength of soft tissues such as muscles and ligaments. This plus the shoulder’s superlative capacity for movement make it one of the body’s most vulnerable regions […]
Patellofemoral pain syndrome is a broad term used to describe pain in the front of the knee and around the patella, or kneecap. It is sometimes called “runner’s knee” or “jumper’s knee” because it is common in people who participate in sports that involve running and jumping. However, patellofemoral pain syndrome can occur in nonathletes, […]
Sciatica refers to pain down the sciatic nerve, which runs from the low back down the back of each leg. It is commonly associated with back pain. Sciatica can be disabling, leaving people unable to do simple things like getting dressed, but others may find it an annoying discomfort. Research shows starting physical therapy soon […]
Ankle sprains are a common injury, and it is widely held that they respond well to conservative treatment. But don’t let their commonness lull you into thinking that time and a little protection is all you need to get back to 100%. Up to 64% of conventionally treated ankle sprains have persisting symptoms even after […]
It’s time to bring out the green thumb because gardening season is upon us. Many enjoy gardening and its numerous health benefits. However, it is important to be mindful of the stress and strain activities such as digging, planting, weeding, and raking can cause. The back, knees, neck, and shoulders can be especially vulnerable to […]
