What is Chronic Pain?

An estimated 50 million adults in the United States experienced chronic pain (i.e., pain lasting ≥3 months) in 2019, resulting in substantial health care costs and lost productivity.

In a chronic pain condition, the source of the pain is often unknown, or has long since healed. The nervous system has taken over and become the source of pain. While treatment with pain medications can decrease pain intensity, the relief is generally short-lived and may wane over time.  In addition, the risks of addiction, leftover medications being made available to the public and overdose deaths cannot be ignored.

How Can a Physical Therapist Help?

Physical therapy interventions including structured exercise, soft tissue and joint mobilizations, modalities such as electrical stimulation and patient education aim to decrease pain permanently rather than mask it for a short time.

The efficacy of physical therapy for reducing pain and improving function has been demonstrated in a variety of chronic pain conditions, including:

• Osteoarthritis
• Nonspecific low back pain
• Whiplash associated disorders
• Fibromyalgia
• Reflex sympathetic dystrophy (RSD)/chronic regional pain syndrome
• Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction
• Multiple Sclerosis

At Phoenix, our physical therapists understand the multi-faceted nature of pain, and the importance of a team approach in treating persistent pain disorders. Your physical therapist (PT) will design a treatment program specific to your needs and symptoms in order to relieve pain and increase function.  For more detailed information on how a PT can help you, visit the Phoenix location nearest you.

Source: https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/72/wr/mm7215a1.htm

The post Physical Therapy for Chronic Pain appeared first on Phoenix Physical Therapy.

How PT for Kids Works

Unlike a typical doctor’s visit, pediatric PT sessions are all about play! Therapists use games, activities, and exercises tailored to your child’s needs and interests. This might involve:

● Building Strength and Coordination: Using fun exercises and activities like animal walks, obstacle courses, and games, PTs help children improve their balance, agility, and muscle control. This can be essential for everything from playing on the playground to keeping up
with friends.

● Addressing Developmental Delays: Physical therapy can be a game-changer for children who are experiencing delays in reaching milestones like rolling over, crawling, or walking. Your PT will assess your child to identify the areas holding them back, and create a fun
program to help them develop the skills they need to progress.

● Recovering from Injuries: Did your little athlete take a tumble? PTs can help kids heal from sports injuries and surgeries. A PT will help your child restore strength and flexibility so they can safely get back to their favorite activities.

● Managing Chronic Conditions: Children with conditions like cerebral palsy or muscular dystrophy can benefit from physical therapy to help manage their symptoms and improve their overall function and well-being. A PT will assess your child to identify areas of strength
and areas that need improvement. They will then develop a program to help your child maximize their strength, range of motion, coordination, and endurance. They’ll educate you and your child on things you can work on at home. They can also help get your child any
needed equipment like wheelchairs, braces, or walkers.

Benefits Beyond Movement

Physical therapy isn’t just about physical health. While physical therapists play an important role
in promoting physical activity and health in kids, PTs can also help children with:
● Self-Confidence: As kids gain strength, coordination, and independence, their confidence soars. This can have a positive impact on all areas of their lives.
● Pain Management: PTs can teach children techniques to manage pain and discomfort, improving their overall quality of life.
● Socialization: Gross motor skills help children participate in play and games with peers, which help children develop social skills and build friendships.

If you think your child might benefit from physical therapy, find a Phoenix Physical Therapy Location near you. They can assess your child’s needs and create a personalized plan to help them reach their goals.

Article courtesy of APTA.

The post Getting Kids Moving: Pediatric Physical Therapy appeared first on Phoenix Physical Therapy.

What is physical therapy for dogs?

Physical therapy for dogs is similar to physical therapy for humans, just with more treats! It uses techniques like exercise, massage, heat and cold therapy, hydrotherapy, laser, ultrasound, and even treadmill therapy to improve your dog’s range of motion, strength, flexibility, and endurance. Just like in humans, the goal is to decrease pain, speed up recovery, and improve your dog’s quality of life.

Physical therapy for dogs is usually performed by a certified canine rehabilitation therapist. These are veterinarians and physical therapists who have undergone extensive training and certification. They will assess your dog’s condition, medical history, and goals, and design a customized treatment plan for your dog.

What do dogs need physical therapy for?

Physical therapy for dogs can treat lots of conditions, including:

• Arthritis: Physical therapy can help reduce inflammation, stiffness, and pain in your dog’s joints. It can also improve your dog’s mobility and prevent further deterioration of the cartilage.
• Hip dysplasia: Physical therapy can help strengthen the muscles around your dog’s hip joint and improve its stability. It can also reduce the risk of developing osteoarthritis in the future.
• Torn cruciate ligament: Physical therapy can help your dog recover from surgery or avoid surgery altogether. It can help restore your dog’s normal function and prevent muscle atrophy and joint instability.
• Neurological conditions: Physical therapy can help your dog with conditions that affect the nervous system, such as intervertebral disc disease (IVDD), degenerative myelopathy (DM), or stroke. It can help stimulate nerve function, improve balance and coordination, and prevent muscle wasting.
• Obesity: Physical therapy can help your dog lose weight and improve its overall health. It can help your dog burn calories, increase metabolism, and reduce the strain on the joints and organs.
• Sports injuries: Physical therapy can help your dog heal from injuries sustained during activities like agility or flyball. It can help prevent scar tissue formation, enhance performance, and increase body awareness.
• Physical therapy for dogs is a great way to help your best friend heal from injuries, improve their mobility and fitness, and enhance their quality of life. If you think your dog could benefit from physical therapy, consult with your veterinarian first. They can refer you to a certified canine rehabilitation therapist who can evaluate your dog and create a suitable treatment plan. With physical therapy, you can help your dog live a happier and healthier life.

References:

(1) The Power of Canine Rehabilitation Therapy – American Kennel Club. https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/the-power-of-canine-rehabilitation-therapy/.

(2) Physical Therapy For Dogs: How Can Canine Rehabilitation Benefit Your …. https://www.caninejournal.com/physical-therapy-for-dogs/.

(3) Dog Rehabilitation – A Detailed Physiotherapy Guide. https://topdogtips.com/dog-rehabilitation-a-detailed-physiotherapy-guide/.

(4) Dog Physical Therapy: Exercises, Modalities, Techniques – TopDog Health. https://topdoghealth.com/what-are-dog-physical-therapy-exercises/.

(5) A Complete Guide to Physical Therapy for Dogs – RocketDog. https://rocketanimalhealth.com/blogs/news/a-complete-guide-to-physical-therapy-for-dogs.

(6) Canine Pelvic Osteotomies Outcomes – https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34643966/

(7) Canine hip dysplasia study – https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20740258/

(8) Canine Rehabilitation Institute – https://www.caninerehabinstitute.com/

(9) Dog physical therapy exercises – https://www.lakecross.com/site/blog-huntersville-vet/2020/08/12/dogs-physical-therapy-exercises

(10) What can be included in rehab – https://www.aaha.org/your-pet/pet-owner-education/ask-aaha/what-is-veterinary-physical-rehabilitation/

(11) Evidence for canine PT – https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25432679/

(12) Select Technique for PT for dogs – https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9312226/

(13) Dogs Physical Therapy Exercises | LakeCross Veterinary Hospital. https://www.lakecross.com/site/blog-huntersville-vet/2020/08/12/dogs-physical-therapy-exercises.

(14) Overview of the role of rehabilitation for arthritis. https://caninearthritis.org/article/role-of-rehabilitation-arthritis/.

(15) Pet Rehab. https://www.petrehab.net/.

(16) Advanced Canine Rehab Center – Home. https://www.dogpt.com/.

The post No Bones About It: Physical Therapy Helps Dogs Too appeared first on Phoenix Physical Therapy.

• Fatigue
• Numbness
• Weakness
• Balance Deficits
• Restricted Joint Movement
• Loss of Flexibility
• Skin Tightness
• Swelling

At Phoenix Physical Therapy, we work with the patient’s healthcare team to devise a strategic plan to address a patient’s specific needs. Our program will be based upon what type of cancer is involved, what treatment the patient is undergoing, and what their overall fitness level was when they began treatment. We offer the newest technology and treatments to keep their body strong as they fight the cancer or recover after beating it. Here are just a few of the options:

• Stationary Bicycle
• Treadmill
• Stair Climbing
• Alter-G Anti-Gravity Treadmill (Available in some locations)
• Aquatic Therapy (Available in some locations)
• Massage Therapy (Available in some locations)
• Manual Therapy Techniques
• Transcutaneous Electrical Neuromuscular Stimulation (TENS)
• Heat Therapy
• Decongestive Therapy for Lymphedema (Available in some locations)
• Compression Therapy for Swelling

Our therapists will also create an at-home exercise program tailored to the patient so they can continue to strengthen their body throughout the recovery period and beyond. To learn more please call your closest Phoenix Physical Therapy clinic.

The post Physical Therapy and Cancer Care appeared first on Phoenix Physical Therapy.

This clinic is led by clinic director and local resident Patricia Godsen, PT, DPT. Patty is passionate about building a relationship with her patients and helping them return to the activities that they love. Whether it is a student-athlete with sports-related pain, an adult recovering from a recent injury, or a senior who needs therapy before an upcoming surgery, Patty and her team can help.

“I am thrilled that we can offer the Warren-Champion community excellent physical therapy care with an experienced team of caring clinicians,” said Melissa Sanor, Director of Clinic Operations. “Patty Godsen, PT, DPT, has been a key member of our team for more than ten years. She offers patients a welcoming and encouraging environment. In addition, Patty uses a coaching approach to help her patients restore their functional abilities.”

Patty has more than ten years of experience in the outpatient setting, treating patients across all ages, fitness levels, and orthopedic issues. “Through the years, I’ve treated a wide variety of patients who deal with chronic pain, vestibular issues, lymphedema/wound care management, and post-op care. Not only do I address the physical aspect of a patient’s injury, but the emotional aspect that often accompanies it,” said Godsen.

Phoenix Physical Therapy operates more than 150 clinics in eleven states, acquired Ohio-based Tudor Physical Therapy in 2020. Tudor’s 12 clinics in the Eastern Ohio area have been integrated into Phoenix, and a brand transition is in progress. For more information or to make an appointment at the Phoenix Warren-Champion clinic, call (330) 372-0207 or visit https://phoenixphysicaltherapy.com/warren-champion/.

About Phoenix Physical Therapy

Phoenix Physical Therapy creates distinctly different and personalized experiences for our patients, teams and communities. The company, with nearly 1,000 employees, operates more than 150 community-based clinics across the United States. The Phoenix team is committed to providing the highest quality physical therapy, occupational therapy and speech therapy care.

Media contact:
Suzanne Manella
630-440-9817

The post Phoenix Physical Therapy Expands with new Warren-Champion Clinic appeared first on Phoenix Physical Therapy.

 Under our treatment philosophy, we believe it is essential to be hands-on throughout your plan of care. At Phoenix, we find that our patient’s respond positively to hands-on work when combined with at home exercises and education. Manual therapy encompasses a broad group of sophisticated techniques performed by our trained physical therapists.  

 These may include:

• Orthopedic manual physical therapy techniques (OMPT) 
• Joint mobilization
• Joint manipulation
• Active Isolated Stretching (AIS)
• DiMaggio techniques
• Mulligan Technique
• Muscle energy techniques (MET)
• Myofascial release (MFR)
• McKenzie trained techniques
• Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation (PNF)
• Stanley Paris Technique
• Strain-counterstrain
• Visceral manipulation  

 If you are interested in learning more about how you can benefit from manual therapy, please contact your local clinic to learn more. 

The post How Manual Therapy Can Help You appeared first on Phoenix Physical Therapy.

Now is a great time to have them take a Baseline Concussion Test

Our computerized concussion testing provides verbal, visual memory, reaction time and processing speed recorded prior to ever receiving a concussion.

After an athlete has received a diagnosis of a concussion, he or she is given the same cognitive test to compare to the one taken before the concussion. This gives a full picture of any effects the concussion has had on the brain and aids in treatment. Throughout recovery, the athlete is re-tested periodically until the test matches the original baseline test, indicating that he or she has fully recovered.

Testing takes about 25 minutes and can be performed at home or in the clinic. Your results are kept confidentially on file and are available to your physician at any time.

Baseline concussion testing is especially recommended for kids 11 years old and older who participate in sports that create higher-risk situations for concussions. It is recommended that children get tested every two years to keep up the effectiveness of the test. Each test is $15.

Call Phoenix in Kingston, PA at Phone: (570) 718-0933.
Michael Schlude, PT, MPT Clinic Director, Physical Therapist
311 Market Street
Kingston, PA 18704-5428

The post Baseline Concussion Tests appeared first on Phoenix Physical Therapy.

While patient traffic has dropped as residents follow stay-at-home orders, Caroline Opperman, facility director at Phoenix’s Sunbury clinic, said they are still seeing up to 70 patients a week. Some patients still visit clinics, while Opperman said there has been an uptick in telemedicine and in-home visits.

“We’re still probably seeing, on average, about 70 patients a week and things are picking back again,” she said, noting a drop of the normal flow of between 100 and 150 patients a week. “We are getting some people on workman’s compensation claims. We’re not doing too bad. But some people are surprised we are still open.”

“It’s going up and up down a little bit,” Chelsea Howe, co-facility director in Sunbury, said. “At first, not many people were coming in because they were worried (about COVID-19). But people have grown more comfortable with it, and it’s starting to pick up. It’s kind of nice; people are getting used to this new normal.”

Some visits can be handled with telemedicine, allowing for maximum social distancing. In those cases, physical therapists walk patients through exercises they can do at home. It does present some challenges, Opperman said.

“We can show them some massaging techniques, but it can be restricting,” she said. “In some cases, there are hands-on techniques that have their spouses help them with.”

Eduardo Velasco, of Harrisburg, was in the Sunbury facility last week for treatment. He was injured on the job, and while being placed on light duty, he is under rehabilitation.

“I am happy they are open,” he said. “It allows me to do my job. I am an essential. I want to get better as fast as I can so I can provide for my family.”

Howe and Opperman said all Phoenix facilities are following strict social distancing guidelines and taking proper precautions — masks and gloves — for in-home visits.

Chairs have been spaced out throughout waiting rooms, and appointments are staggered, so not as many people are on-site at the same time. Everything in the facilities is sanitized regularly, all physical therapists wear masks and gloves, and patients wear masks.
Hand sanitizer is available in the clinics as well.

“Some have said they don’t want to come in, so we are doing everything we can to make them feel safe,” said Opperman.
The masks do present one challenge, Howe said.

“While we still are doing what did previously, I can’t get the personal interaction we usually get. I can’t see personal expressions,” Howe said.

“We base a lot of what we do off facial expressions, how someone reacts, any pain, and with masks, we can’t really see it.

“We are doing what we can, but I ready for things to get back to normal. I think everybody is getting more comfortable with what is going on.”

Source: https://www.dailyitem.com/business/rehab-center-takes-steps-to-see-patients/article

The post Phoenix Physical Therapy Center Takes Steps to See Patients appeared first on Phoenix Physical Therapy.