Shoulder
 |
What can I expect from physiotherapy? Shoulder injuries are among the most commonly treated injuries by physiotherapists; at EPA, the shoulder joint represents an area of much challenge, interest and ongoing research. On your first visit you will be assessed by a registered physiotherapist. You will be asked a series of questions to help determine the exact cause and nature of your injury followed by a detailed physical examination. This exam will involve evaluation of your posture, muscle bulk, strength and co-ordination, and shoulder movements. We develop a patient-specific treatment plan based on this information and provide home exercises to complement your treatment. Common causes of shoulder pain The most common cause of shoulder pain is injury to the rotator cuff. The rotator cuff is made up of four muscles and their tendons. These combine to form a " cuff " over the upper end of the arm. The rotator cuff helps to lift and rotate the arm and to stabilize the ball of the shoulder within the joint. What happens with a rotator cuff injury? Injury to the rotator cuff can cause painful pinching in the shoulder. If left untreated joint instability, stiffness and pain occurs, however physical therapy and strengthening exercises can often provide pain relief and greatly improve shoulder function. |
Back
 |
What is Lumbar Stabilization?
Current research shows that people with low back pain have difficulty contracting the small muscles that support the spine. Lumbar stabilization is a form of physical therapy that helps strengthen the muscles supporting the lower spine. Lumbar stabilization helps you develop strength, flexibility and endurance and can help alleviate lower back pain. At EPA we teach you the basic techniques of controling these muscles while performing everyday activities, and progress the exercises as you learn these skills.The Basics:
1. While lying comfortably on your back, slowly draw in your lower abdomen to gently flatten your stomach; be sure that your trunk and hips do not move during this action.2. Breathe in, breathe out, then contract. 3. Hold the contraction for 10 seconds and repeat 10 times. Place your hands behind your back or inside your hip bones so you can feel the contraction. Basic Home Exercises for Low Back Pain Cat Stretch - Start on your hands and knees. Next, arch your back up and bring your buttocks towards your heels until you feel a stretch through your back. Hold for 10 seconds, repeat 5 times. Foot Lift - Lie on your back with your knees bent. Activate your inner abdominal muscles (see ‘The Basics’, above) and without letting your back move, lift one foot. Repeat 10-15 times for each leg. Bridging - Lie on your back with your knees bent. Activate your inner abdominal muscles. Press with your feet to lift your buttocks up. Hold for 5 seconds, repeat 10-15 times. Arm and Leg Raise - Start on your hands and knees with your back in relaxed. Turn on your inner abdominal muscles. Without letting your back move, reach out with one arm and the opposite leg. Hold for 5 seconds, repeat 10-15 times. |
