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Category: Lockdown

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By Physio Team acute pain, Appointments & Fees, ergonomics, Exercises, feet, flat feet, foot, foot pain, heel pain, Home exercises, Lockdown, lockdown wellbeing, online consultations, orthotics, pain, pain management, physical health, Physio, plantar fasciitis, Therapy , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Managing Your Heel Pain

 

Plantar fasciitis is a very common cause of heel pain. It is associated with inflammation of the thick web-like ligament (plantar fascia) which runs across the base of your heel to the front of your foot. The plantar fascia provides support to the arch of your foot and is a shock-absorber, helping you walk. Hence it is obvious that this ligament experiences a considerable amount of wear and tear in your day to life.

 

 

Symptoms

 

 

Plantar fasciitis is associated with inflammation of plantar fascia triggered by the development of small tears in the plantar fascia which leads to heel pain and other symptoms. This condition mostly develops gradually and worsens over time. You may notice some swelling, redness, and warmth in the affected region. You may experience more pain in the centre of your heel, which may radiate along the sole of your foot. The pain may be achy, sharp, dull, stabbing.  It is mostly experienced when initiating movement first thing in the morning or after a period of inactivity, and may ease after a period of mobility. You may have no resting as the plantar fascia is offloaded and relaxed. It generally impacts just one foot, but it may impact both feet.

 

Causes

The plantar fascia is a thick web-like ligament which supports the arch of your foot and absorbs shock when you walk. Excessive stress and tension on the plantar fascia may cause smalls tears. Repeated stretching and tearing may inflame and irritate the fascia, though the cause remains unclear in many cases of plantar fasciitis.

 

Key factors which may increase your risk of developing this condition include:

  • Foot mechanics: Having flat feet or very high arches or adopting abnormal gait patterns may have an impact of the way your weight is dispersed when you are standing/running/walking and lead to excessive stress on the plantar fascia
  • Obesity: Extra weight increases the tension on the plantar fascia
  • Exercises: Certain exercises such as long-distance running/walking and dancing may put more stress on your heel and plantar fascia
  • Age and Gender: Plantar fasciitis is more often noted in women than men, and is most common in the 40-to-60-year age group.
  • Occupation: which require prolonged periods of walking and standing especially on hard surfaces
  • Sudden and rapid change in activity levels
  • Footwear: Wearing high heels and/or poor fitting shoes that do not provide sufficient arch support cushioning
  • Muscle tightness: particularly of your lower limbs

 

 

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of this condition may be determined by your medical and occupational history, the nature, length and severity of your signs and symptoms, and the existence of localized tenderness in your heel. You may be referred on for imaging such as X-rays, ultrasounds or MRIs to aid the diagnosis and to possibly rule out other causes for your symptoms (fractures, arthritis, heel spurs etc).

 

Management

Initial management of this condition is focused on the reduction of pain and inflammation:

  • Resting is vital
  • Ice application
  • Taking anti-inflammatory medications
  • Wearing appropriate and supportive footwear with arch supports and shock absorbing orthotics
  • Getting your foot and ankle taped for sufficient support and alignment
  • Physiotherapy (involving a graduated rehabilitation program of stretching/strengthening exercises)

If you still do not notice any improvement in your symptoms, your doctor may recommend corticosteroid therapy. Corticosteroid medication is injected into the impacted region with the purpose of treating the inflammation directly hence, relieving your pain. Using a splint at night to avoid the Achilles tendon and plantar fascia from tightening while you sleep may also be recommended at this time. A surgical intervention is seldom recommended and is only usually opted for where the pain is severe and all other treatment has failed. Please discuss your management options with your doctors.

 

Prevention

Here are some helpful tips to prevent the development of plantar fasciitis and decrease the risk of reaggravating your symptoms:

  • Ensure you make warm ups and cool downs as part of your exercise regimes
  • Undertake exercises to strengthen your lower limb muscles
  • Regularly stretch your Achilles, calf and intrinsic foot muscles to increase their flexibility
  • Gradually increase your activity and exercise levels
  • Maintain a healthy body-weight
  • Wear appropriate and supportive footwear (use orthotics for support if needed)
  • Take regular rest breaks if standing and or walking for prolonged periods of time at work
By Physio Team Appointments & Fees, body parts, elbow pain, ergonomics, Exercises, golfers elbow, good posture, hand and wrist pain, Home exercises, Injury, ligaments, Lockdown, medial elbow pain, online consultations, pain management, physical health, Physio, posture, rehabilitation , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Medial Elbow Pain Explained

Medial elbow pain is also known as medial epicondylitis or golfer’s elbow. It is typically associated with pain on the inside (medial side) of your elbow and can spread into your forearm and wrist. This pain is the result of overloading and damage to the tendons that flex your wrist towards your palm.

 

Causes

This condition is triggered by damage to tendons and muscles which control your fingers and wrist. This damage is associated with excessive or repeated stresses- particularly repetitive and forceful finger and wrist movements, incorrect lifting, hitting and throwing techniques, lack of warmups and/or poor muscle conditioning.

Key risk factors for developing medial elbow pain may include smoking, obesity, being of in age bracket of 40 years old and over and undertaking repetitive activity with your arms for at least two hours daily. High risk occupations may include chefs, office desk workers, plumbers, construction workers, painters, butchers and assembly line workers. Those who partake in sports such as golf, racket sports, rowing, weight lifting and baseball are also at a higher risk.

 

Symptoms

Symptoms may be triggered suddenly due to a traumatic incident or may gradually develop over time and include but are not limited to:

  • Tenderness and pain is typically felt on the inner side of your elbow (particularly on the bony knob), and may refer along the inner side of your forearm and down to your wrist and fingers. It often worsens with certain movements. For example, bending your wrist towards your palm against resistance, or when squeezing a rubber ball.
  • You may feel stiffness in your elbow, and making a fist may hurt
  • You may experience weakness in your forearm, wrist and hand
  • You may experience tingling and numbness that can radiate into one or more fingers — typically to your ring and little fingers.

Diagnosis

This condition is typically diagnosed based on your medical and occupation history and a physical exam by your doctor or physiotherapist. To evaluate stiffness, strength and pain, your clinician may apply pressure to the impacted region and get you to move your elbow, wrist and fingers in various ways. You may also be referred on for imaging such as X-rays and Ultrasounds to aid diagnosis.

Management

A mix of non-surgical treatment options are effective for the majority of medial elbow pain cases, and self-resolves over time. You should rest your elbow and painful activities should be avoided. But it is very vital to maintain gentle movements of the forearm, elbow, and wrist through its range of motion.

Potential treatment options include:

  • Ice
  • Rest
  • Physiotherapy and acupuncture
  • Anti-inflammatory medications as recommended by your doctor or pharmacist
  • The use of a wrist and forearm brace or splint to support and rest your forearm

As your initial elbow pain lessens, your muscles around the elbow, forearm and wrist should be safely strengthened and stretched under guidance of a physiotherapist. Your physiotherapist will advise you on particular exercises, give you appropriate symptom management advice and take you through a personalised graduated rehabilitation program. If you continue to experience pain after 6-8 weeks of treatment, your physiotherapist can refer you back to your doctors, to consider administration of a cortisone injection into the elbow to help reduce pain and inflammation, and further referral onto see a specialist to seek guidance on other treatment options.

Prevention

Having a good comprehension of risk of injury and being conscious of your everyday activities may aid in the prevention of medial elbow pain. You should:

  • Adopt appropriate technique and form when undertaking repetitive activities or sporting motions
  • Keep up with adequate wrist, forearm, and shoulder muscle strength
  • Undertake gentle wrist and forearm stretches pre and post activities
  • Adopt appropriate posture and body mechanics when lifting heavy objects to reduce joint strain- especially if doing so repetitively
By Physio Team acute pain, Appointments & Fees, body parts, chronic pain, ergonomics, Exercises, good posture, hand and wrist pain, Home exercises, Injury, Lockdown, lockdown wellbeing, muscles, online consultations, pain, pain management, physical health, Physio, posture, rehabilitation, repetitive stress injury, RSI, sitting posture, Sprain, tendon, Therapy, wellbeing, Work Injury , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI) Explained

 

RSI is typically defined as an overuse disorder- a gradual build-up of overload to nerves, tendons, and muscles arising from repetitive movements or activities. Repetitive use of the same motions leads to inflammation and damage to these soft tissues. This disorder mostly affects the upper limb- particularly the elbows, hands and wrists.

 

Causes

Possible causes of RSI include but are not limited to:

  • Undertaking the same and repetitive movements and stressing the same muscle groups
  • Working in cold environments
  • Assuming a sustained and/or awkward posture for prolonged periods of time
  • Undertaking a particular activity for prolonged periods of time with no rest-breaks
  • Frequent and prolonged use of vibrating equipment
  • Adopting poor postures from working at inappropriately designed workstations
  • Undertaking a motion which involves carrying and/or lifting heavy items

 

 

Symptoms

RSI leads to a gradual development of a broad variety of symptoms, which range from mild to severe in severity. RSI particularly affects the muscles and joints of your wrists, hands, elbows, forearms, shoulders, neck. Having said this, RSI can affect other areas of the body as well.

Common symptoms may include:

  • Pain
  • Tingling
  • Cramping
  • Increased sensitivity to heat and cold
  • Tenderness
  • Fatigue
  • Loss of strength
  • Throbbing
  • Soreness
  • Achiness
  • Stiffness
  • Struggling with typical activities of daily living, such as gripping and twisting motions, carrying light weights, writing, kitchen prepping, dressing, personal cares etc

You may develop these symptoms when you undertake a task repetitively for a period of time, and can settle when you stop. Symptoms may settle over a few hours or over the course of a few days. However, if left untreated or is poorly managed, a minor RSI may gradually progress to a nasty chronic injury.

 

Diagnosis

 

If you experience mild discomfort whilst completing particular activities at home or at your job, it is a good idea to see your GP or physiotherapist to talk about RSI. But an RSI is not always simple to diagnose as there is no particular clinical test for it. Your GP will enquire about your medical history, occupation and work environment, and other activities to attempt to identify any repetitive motions you undertake that may be the cause of your symptoms. A physical examination will be undertaken, where they will assess your movement, check for pain, inflammation, sensation, tenderness, strength and reflexes in the impacted body part. RSI may be triggered by specific health disorders like bursitis, carpal tunnel, tigger finger, ganglion cyst, or tendonitis (inflammation in your tendons). Your GP can refer you on further diagnostic tests such as X-rays, Ultrasounds, blood tests, MRIs, nerve conduction tests etc, to determine if these underlying disorders may be the cause of your symptoms. You may be also be referred onto a physiotherapist and acupuncturist for conservative treatment and management for mild-moderate issues. If symptoms persist, you will then be referred onto a specialist.

 

Management

Initial treatment options for the management of RSI symptoms is conservative. This includes:

  • Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation (RICE principles)
  • Taking regular breaks between tasks and looking after your posture
  • Undertaking your activities and movements with appropriate form and posture
  • Intake of Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), both oral and topical as prescribed by the GP
  • Use of cold and heat to the impacted area
  • Administration of steroid injections into inflamed joints and tendons
  • Tailored exercise prescription from physiotherapists to correct posture and strengthen and stretch affected muscles
  • Acupuncture
  • Stress reduction and relaxation training
  • Use of splints and braces to help protect and rest the affected muscles and tendons

Ergonomically appropriate adjustments to your workstation and work environment may be recommended by your physio and GP- for example resetting your desk and chair if you’re working at computer, and alterations to your equipment and activities/motions to lessen the strain and stress on your muscles and joints. Surgery may be necessary in some cases.

 

Prevention

Minimizing repetitive actions particularly if they involve the use of heavy machinery or vibration. Improving your working posture and work-environment as well a taking regular breaks. Employers often undertake risk-assessments when you join a company to determine that the work area is ergonomically fit, comfortable and appropriate for you. You may be able to request for an assessment if you have not had one or are having issues with your work environment

By Physio Team Appointments & Fees, body parts, bone weaking, bones, Exercises, falls, Home exercises, Injury, Lockdown, lockdown wellbeing, muscles, older adult, online consultations, osteoporosis, pain, pain management, Physio, posture, rehabilitation, Therapy, weak bones, wellbeing , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Osteoporosis

 

Osteoporosis is a condition which results in weak and brittle bones- to such degree that a fall or even mild stresses like coughing or bending over may result in a fracture. Bones are living tissues which are continually being broken down and replaced. However, your bones become osteoporotic when the formation of new bone does not keep up with the loss of old bone. This condition typically develops over time without any pain or other major symptoms, and is generally not diagnosed until you have sustained a fracture. The hip, pelvis, upper arm, spine and wrists are the most common structures affected by osteoporosis- related fractures.

 

 

How do you know if you have Osteoporosis?

 

Because there are no obvious early warning signs and symptoms, it is difficult to pre-diagnose osteoporosis. You may be unaware that you have this condition perhaps till you have one of the following:

  • Sustained a fracture from an incident more easily than you should have- like a simple fall or a bump
  • A decrease in the height of your spinal vertebrae over time
  • Change in posture – stooping or bending forwards
  • Back pain, due to a fractured or collapsed vertebra

Please see your doctor if you experience the following:

  • If you are over the age of 50 and have sustained a fracture
  • Sustained a spine, wrist, or hip for the first time
  • Sustained a fracture more easily than you should have (a simple fall or after a slight bump)

 

Risk factors

Key factors which may increase your risk of developing osteoporosis include:

  • Females- particularly post-menopausal Caucasian and Asian women
  • Over the age of 50
  • Excessive consumption of caffeine or alcohol
  • Smoking
  • Having a smaller or petite body frame
  • Poor physical activity levels and leading a very sedentary lifestyle
  • Family history of osteoporosis
  • Having low levels of vitamin D and poor dietary calcium intake
  • Decreasing levels of testosterone with ageing in men
  • Estrogen deficiency in women (irregular periods, early (before turning 40) or post-menopausal, surgical removal of the ovaries)
  • Use of long-term medication such as thyroid and epilepsy medications, corticosteroids
  • Having medical conditions such as gastrointestinal diseases; endocrine diseases; rheumatoid arthritis; cancer; and blood disorders

 

 

How will you be diagnosed?

Your doctor will review your signs and symptoms, family and medical history. You may be referred on for a specialized X-ray or CT scan to evaluate the bone density to help diagnose osteoporosis. Your bone density will be classified by comparing it to the typical bone density for a person of equivalent gender, size, and age.

 

 

How is Osteoporosis treated?

The treatment pathway chosen for the management of this condition is dependent on results of your bone density scan, gender, age, medical history and severity of the condition. Potential treatments for osteoporosis may include exercise, making positive lifestyle changes, vitamin and mineral supplements, and medications. Please consult your doctor for appropriate advice and treatment options.

 

 

How can Physiotherapy help?

 

Your physiotherapist will help you strengthen your bones and your muscles through a personalized and graduated rehabilitation program. Components of this rehabilitation program may include weightbearing aerobic exercises, resistance training using free weights/resistance bands/bodyweight resistance, and exercises to enhance posture, balance and body strength. Your physiotherapist will work with you to find activities that suit your needs and as per your physical activity level.

 

 

By Physio Team Appointments & Fees, Exercises, knee pain, ligament damage, ligaments, Lockdown, lockdown wellbeing, MCL knee pain, MCL ligament, medial knee pain, muscles, online consultations, pain management, physical health, Physio, Sprain, surgery, Therapy , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Managing your Medial Knee Pain: MCL injuries

What is it?

Although your knee has free movement going forwards and backwards, its’ sideward movements are restricted by the robust collateral ligaments on either sides of your knee. The medial collateral ligament (MCL) is situated on the inner part of your knee, but on the outside of your joint. The MCL connects the top of your shinbone (tibia) to the bottom of your femur (thighbone). It helps hold your bones together, provides stability and prevents your knee from bending sideways away from your body.

Injuries to the MCL are from the result of a direct blow to the outer part of your knee- and is most commonly seen in contact sports such as football and soccer. These injures may either over-stretch or cause a tear in the ligament. Whilst surgery may be needed in some severe cases, it is not always the go-to form of management.

Read on to know how physiotherapy can help manage your MCL related-knee pain.

 

 

Mechanism of Injury

Injury to the MCL typically occurs when a force drives the lower leg in a sideward direction away from your upper leg and body. Awkwardly landing from a height, twisting of your knee with your foot fixated to the ground, or from a direct blow to the outer part of your knee- most commonly seen in contact sports, are frequent causes of injury to the MCL.

 

 

Grading of MCL Injuries

MCL injuries are often graded using the system below:

Grade 1: Regarded as a minor injury- means that the MCL has been overstretched but not torn

Grade 2: Regarded as a moderate injury- means that there is a partial tear in MCL, and presents with some degree of instability in the knee

Grade 3: Regarded as a severe injury- means that the MCL has completely ruptured/torn, and presents with noticeable joint instability

 

Often 3 MCL injuries are associated with concurrent medial meniscus and ACL ligament damage, which may need surgical intervention. But, the good news is that most MCL injuries may be treated well with conservative physiotherapy management. It usually takes between 2-8 weeks for Grade 1 and 2 MCL injuries to heal, and a graduated rehabilitation programme is highly commended for prevention of future injury.

 

 

Signs and Symptoms

Because injury to the MCL may present with similar symptoms as with other knee injuries such as ACL damage, it is vital to have a medical professional such as your physiotherapist evaluate your injury.

Common symptoms of an MCL injury may include:

  • Tenderness and pain along in the inner part of your knee
  • Swelling in the knee
  • Experience catching and locking sensations in the knee joint
  • A ‘pop’ sound at the time of injury
  • Actual or feeling of giving way of the knee (often indicate grade 2 or 3 injury)

 

 

Diagnosis

Your physiotherapist will discuss your injury and its presenting symptoms, past medical history (including a history of any prior knee injuries) and will also undertake a thorough physical examination. During the physical examination, your physiotherapist will assess the structures of your injured knee and compare them to the non-injured side. The range of motion, strength and stability of your knee will be assessed. You may be referred on for imaging such as X-rays and Ultrasounds to help aid the diagnosis. For more severe MCL injuries, and if your symptoms do not resolve with conservative physiotherapy management, you may be referred onto a specialist who may consider referring you for an MRI to get a deeper look at your knee.

 

Management

The management options for MCL injuries will be dependent on the severity of the injury. In the initial stages of injury, management is focused on controlling swelling and pain, whilst allowing your body to initiate healing processes via inflammation. This is typically achieved through the P.O.L.I.C.E. principles (Protect, Optimal Loading, Ice, Compression and Elevation).

Over the counter medication such as ibuprofen and paracetamol may be taken to reduce pain. Other stronger painkillers and NSAIDs may be prescribed by your doctor to help reduce swelling and inflammation as well.

After assessing your knee, your physiotherapist will frame a rehabilitation programme with exercises tailored to your needs. The purpose of physiotherapy is to help restore your knee’s range of motion, stability and strength, which in turn will then allow you to safely return to your usual day-to-day and sporting activities as soon as possible.

Management of most MCL injuries usually only involves knee bracing and physiotherapy treatment. However, in some cases, surgery may be recommended. Particularly if there is damage to more than one ligament or structure in your knee or if you continue to experience instability in spite of physiotherapy.

By Physio Team Appointments & Fees, Exercises, falls, Home exercises, Lockdown, lockdown wellbeing, older adult, pain, pain management, rehabilitation , , , , , , , , , , , ,

MANAGING FALLS IN OLDER ADULTS

Having a fall is dangerous at any age, however, they become more frequent and may most probably result in injury in adults 55 years and over. It is also estimated that in Aotearoa, approximately a third of older adults over the age of 65 sustain a fall every year. This leads to harmful consequences for them, especially for those who live alone. Alongside, sustaining serious injuries, you may face loss of independence, mobility and confidence. But!!! The good news is that there are a number of ways that you can reduce your risk of falling.

 

So Why Do Older Adults Have Falls?

  • Poor lower limb strength
  • Cognitive and functional impairment
  • Nutritional deficiencies
  • Prior and/or ongoing history of falls
  • Vision deficits
  • Balance or gait disorders
  • Medication related- especially when using anti-depressants, sedatives, anti-arrhythmics, anti-hypertensives, diuretics, and anti-convulsants
  • Hazards around your home environment such as loose carpets, slippery surfaces, poor lighting, lack of safety equipment particularly in the bathroom/toilet
  • Medical conditions such as vertigo, dizziness, diabetes, postural hypotension, drop attacks, and fainting spells

 

The Vicious Falls Cycle

Older adults who have had a fall may limit what they do because of their loss of self-confidence and fear of falling. Whilst this may seem like the most sensible thing for them to do, it increases their risk of falls. This is because, this leads to a further reduction in muscle strength, coordination and balance. Hence, it is healthier for older adults to keep up with their activities they enjoy as safely as they can, work on improving their muscle strength, coordination and balance, and manage their blood sugar levels, blood pressure, and weight under the guidance of their doctor.

 

 

Falls prevention tips

 

Below are some measures you may take to prevent yourself from falling:

Exercise regularly: A number of benefits include better sleep, improved muscle strength, balance and flexibility, increased energy levels, stronger bones, better management of weight, blood sugars and blood pressure. Exercise programs tailored especially for muscle strength and balance have resulted in a reduction in the number of falls and injuries resulting from falls by approximately 30% and 50%. It is advised that you speak to your doctor or physiotherapist before initiating or progressing your exercise levels.

Keeping your vision in check: Vision deficits makes getting around safely a lot harder. Therefore, you should get your eyes checked yearly and wear your contact lenses or glasses with the correct prescription strength.

Being aware of the effects of your medication: As they may have certain side effects that increase your risk of falls. You should review your medications with your doctor for side effects like drowsiness or dizziness.

Reduce hazards at home: Most falls typically take place at home. So be sure to make your home safer by removing tripping hazards, having adequate lighting, and adding in handrails in hallways and bathrooms/toilets.

Other tips:

  • Taking your time to get up and when moving around- no rushing!
  • Having a personal medical alarm (please talk to your doctor about how to get one)
  • Using a night light when you get up at night
  • Wearing appropriate, supportive and well-fitted shoes
  • Not using an easily moveable object to stabilise yourself
  • Using the support of handrails in bathrooms and hallways
  • Avoiding or being very careful on wet or slippery floors
  • Appropriately using your walking aids

 

If You Have Had a Fall

If you sustain a fall, it is vital for you to stay calm.

If you think you are able to get up safely, try to bend your knees, roll to your side, and attempt to get into a 4-point kneeling position. If there is a chair near by or if you are able to crawl towards one, you can use it as support to get yourself up. Please take your time and rest as needed.

If you are unable to get up safely, attempt to crawl or roll towards a phone. You may call out to other members in your household or your neighbour. If you’re at risk of falls, please do consider the use of a personal medical alarm to call out for help when you have a fall.

After a fall, please contact your doctor as soon as you can for an assessment of potential injuries sustained, muscle strength and balance to help prevent future falls. You may be directed to community or in-home sessions to enhance your balance and strength. Please discuss this with your doctors.

By Physio Team acute pain, Appointments & Fees, chronic pain, Home exercises, Injury, Lockdown, lockdown wellbeing, online consultations, osteoarthritis, pain management, physical health, Physio, RA, rehabilitation, Rheumatoid arthritis, Rheumatoid arthritis (RA), Therapy , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Dealing with Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA), a chronic inflammatory condition associated with swelling, pain, fatigue, and joint deformity. Although there are no known cures for this condition at present, a combination of treatments are available to help manage your symptoms. RA is the 2nd most common form of arthritis after osteoarthritis and is known to affect 1–2% of New Zealand’s population.

 

 

Signs and Symptoms

RA may develop very quickly or gradually over time, with its signs and symptoms, as well as the severity varying from one person to another. This condition is associated with episodes of remission and flare ups, with or without apparent triggers.

Other symptoms may include

 

  • Swollen, tender joints- (often accompanied by warmth and redness)
  • Joint pain
  • Joint stiffness which worsens in the mornings and after a period of inactivity
  • Fever, loss of appetite weakness, and fatigue
  • Muscle pain
  • Changes to the skin and nails

In the early stages of RA, you may notice its impact on your smaller joints- especially in your toes and fingers. And as this condition develops, your symptoms typically branch out to the bigger joints- your shoulders, ankles, knees, wrists, hips and elbows. Symptoms are likely to affect your joints bilaterally. Over time, RA also causes joints to deform and shift out of place.

Because RA is a systemic condition, it is estimated that approximately 40% of the RA population may experience symptoms and signs other body systems than the joints. These may include:

  • Kidneys, lungs, heart
  • Skin, eyes, mouth
  • Bone marrow
  • Nerves and blood vessels

 

 

Causes and Risk Factors

Your immune system is designed to help protect your body from infection and disease. However, in RA, changes occur in your immune system that (for poorly understood reasons), causes it to mistakenly attack the healthy soft-tissues of joints resulting in pain, swelling and inflammation. Because of this ongoing process, over time damages to the lining of your joints and other soft-tissues may lead to bone erosion and joint deformity. It can also have an impact on your heart, lungs, nerves, eyes and skin.

One can get RA at any age, although it is more probable to develop in those in the age bracket of 25-50 years old. Though rare, under 16s may also develop Juvenile RA or Still’s disease.

Risk factors for the development of RA include:

  • Family history of RA
  • Age bracket of 25-50 years old
  • Smoking
  • Women are more likely to develop RA than men
  • Obesity

 

 

 

Diagnosis

 

At present there is no single test to confirm a clinical RA diagnosis. It is often difficult to differentiate this condition in its initial stages from other forms of connective tissue inflammation (fibromyalgia, lupus, gout etc.).

Your doctor will get your full medical history (as well as any familial history of RA), discuss your signs and symptoms, undertake a physical assessment- particularly of your joints, and refer you on for imaging and blood tests. X-rays may help evaluate RA progression in your joints over time, whilst MRI and ultrasound imaging may help evaluate the severity of RA in your body. The blood test will evaluate your level of anti-bodies and proteins (including the rheumatoid factor protein that is present in approximately eighty percent of the RA population), and markers of inflammation.

 

 

Management

At present, though there is no cure for RA, a range of treatments are available which may help slow its’ progression and reduce pain and inflammation, minimise and/or prevent joint damage and maximise joint movement.

A combination of prescribed medication as advised by your doctor and other treatment options as noted below are recommended:

  • Cease smoking if you are smoker
  • Physiotherapy will help improve and maintain your joint range of motion, increase your muscle strength, and decrease your pain. Additionally, your physiotherapist or occupational therapist will be able to teach you ways of using your body efficiently to reduce stress on your joints
  • Finding a balance between rest and activity
  • Use of heat and cold packs to help ease pain and inflammation
  • The use of splints or braces for joint support as needed
  • Hydrotherapy- exercising in water reduces the pressure on your joints, whilst the warmth of the water will relax your muscles and help lessen your pain.
  • Seeking regular medical advice and check-ups to monitor your RA symptoms and the progression of the condition
  • Adopting a healthy and active lifestyle
By Physio Team Appointments & Fees, body parts, chronic pain, Exercises, good posture, Home exercises, Injury, Lockdown, muscles, OA, online consultations, osteoarthritis, pain, pain management, physical health, Physio, rehabilitation , , , , , , , , , , ,

Managing Your Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis impacts millions of people worldwide and is typically known as the most common form of arthritis. It is associated with the wear and tear of the protective cartilage which cushions the ends of your bones in your joints over time. Though this condition may cause damage to any joint in the body, osteoarthritis primarily impacts the joints in your spine, hands, hips, and knees.

 

Causes and Risk factors

Over time, the gradual deterioration of the cartilage which cushions the ends of your bones in your joints causes arthritis. Cartilage is a solid slippery tissue which allows almost frictionless joint movement. As the cartilage wears down, bone will eventually rub on bone.

This condition is typically characterized as a wear and tear degenerative disorder. However, in addition to the breakdown of the cartilage, it also impacts the joint as a whole. Osteoarthritis triggers alterations in the bone and damages connective tissue which holds the joint together and attaches your muscles to your bones. Inflammation of the lining of the joint is also triggered.

Factors which may put you at higher risk of developing osteoarthritis include but are not limited to:

  • Your age- the risk increases with getting older
  • Gender- though unclear why, but women are more perceptible to developing osteoarthritis
  • Bony deformities- those with abnormal joints or defective cartilage
  • Sustaining bony or joint injuries like those which take place during sport or from an accident.
  • The risk increases with obesity- the more you weigh, the greater your risk, as it adds more stress to your weight-bearing joints (particularly hips and knees)
  • Your occupation or a sport that you play which puts repetitive and excessive stress/loading on the joints, can eventually lead to the development of osteoarthritis.
  • Certain co-morbidities such as diabetes

 

Common symptoms

Below are some common examples of symptoms you may experience with arthritis. These may develop and worsen gradually over time

  • Pain: Your joints may hurt before and/or after undertaking an activity
  • Loss of joint range of motion– loss of overall joint flexibility and movement
  • Tenderness felt on applying light pressure to the joint
  • Joint stiffness that is most noticeable on waking up first thing in the morning or after a prolonged period of inactivity
  • Noticeable changes in joint pain with changes in the weather- particularly colder weathers
  • Sensations of grating and grinding// sounds of clicking and popping (crepitus) when you use the joint
  • You may notice swelling and redness around the joint, which may be triggered by soft tissue inflammation
  • Bony spurs that feel like hard bumps may develop around the impacted joint

 

How will I be diagnosed?

Osteoarthritis is typically diagnosed based on your medical and occupation history and a physical examination undertaken by your doctor. During the physical examination, your doctor will assess your affected joint(s) for swelling, tenderness, redness, and stiffness. X-rays may be recommended to reveal cartilage loss (the narrowing of the space between the bones of your joints), changes in bone, and bony spurs around the joint. Blood tests may be used to rule out other causes of joint pains like rheumatoid arthritis. Joint fluid analyses may also be used to test for inflammation to ascertain if the pain is triggered by an infection or gout instead of osteoarthritis.

 

Management

Though there isn’t a cure for osteoarthritis, various treatments which can help relieve symptoms of pain and disability are available.

Lifestyle modifications: Changes to your daily life may protect your joints and slow the progression of osteoarthritis.  Minimising activities which exacerbate your symptoms such as climbing stairs, squatting. Swapping high-impact activities like running and jogging to lower-impact activities such as cycling or hydrotherapy will decrease the stress on your joints. Weight-loss reduces the stress and loading on your joints, which then results in less pain with increased function.

Assistive aids: Using assistive aids like a stick/cane, wearing proper shoes w orthotics and supportive braces/sleeves may improve your stability and support your functional capabilities.

Physiotherapy: Targeted exercises may help improve your flexibility as well as build strength in your muscles. Your physiotherapist will develop a personalised active rehabilitation program which is safe and will meet your requirements and lifestyles.

Medications: Various kinds of medication (such as paracetamol and NSAIDs) maybe helpful in treating and controlling the symptoms of osteoarthritis. As everyone responds differently to medications, your doctor will prescribe medicines (type and dosage), which is safe and will work best for you.

Cortisones: Strong anti-inflammatory agents which is injected into the affected joint to give pain relieve and decrease inflammation for a short period of time. Due to potential side-effects, it may be recommended to restrict the number of injections to 2-3 per year.

Other: Heat and ice applications, self-massaging with pain-relieving creams/ointments and/or wearing elastic supports may provide some relief from your pain and give you support.

Surgery: Surgery may be recommended if there is considerable degeneration in your joints and/or if your osteoarthritic pain causes disability that is not relieved with conservative management. Your doctor or specialist will discuss your options with you.

By Physio Team Appointments & Fees, Exercises, Home exercises, Injury, Lockdown, online consultations, Physio, rehabilitation, Sporting, Sprain, Therapy, Work Injury , , , , , , , , , , ,

Tennis Elbow Explained

What is Tennis Elbow?

Tennis elbow, or also known as lateral epicondylitis, is a painful disorder of the elbow triggered by overuse. This disorder is characterised by inflammation or, in some cases, micro-tearing of the extensor tendons which link the forearm muscles on the outer part of the elbow. This leads to pain and tenderness on the outside of the elbow, spreading through to the forearm and wrist.

Elbow Pain - Do I have Tennis Elbow? - Oh My Arthritis

Causes

Tennis elbow is characterized as an overuse and muscle strain injury. It is caused by repetitive and/or vigorous contractions of the forearm muscles which is used to straighten, extend, and lift the wrist and hand. The repetitive motions and stress to the tissues can result in a string of tiny, microscopic tears in the tendons which attach your forearm muscles to the bony prominence on the outside of the elbow.

Tennis elbow may result from number of activities including but not limited to:

  • Typing and repetitive computer mouse use
  • Cutting/chopping motions
  • Manual work that involves repetitive turning or lifting of the wrist, such as plumbing, or bricklaying.
  • Gardening
  • Using hand tools such as scissors, clippers, screwdrivers, plumbing and carpentry tools
  • Playing racquet sports, such as tennis, badminton, or squash
  • Throwing sports, such as the javelin or discus
  • Painting
  • Sewing/knitting

Tennis elbow may also occur after a sudden knock or bang to the elbow, if you undertake activities that you are not used to excessively and aggressively, and sometimes there is no apparent cause for it.

Risk Factors

Factors which may increase your risk of tennis elbow include:

Your age: Whilst this disorder impacts people of all ages, it is mostly prevalent in adults in the age group of 30-50 years old.

Your occupation: Those who have jobs which entail repetitive movements of the wrist and arm are more likely to develop this disorder. Examples include but are not limited to painters, computer users, plumbers, butchers, carpenters, and chefs.

Sports: Partaking in racket sports increases the risk of tennis elbow, particularly if you use poor form and technique.

Common Signs and Symptoms

Tennis Elbow - Symptoms, Causes, Treatment & Exercises

Pain noted around the bony knob on the outside of your elbow is the most common characterising symptom of tennis elbow. This knob is where the injured tendons connect to the bone. The pain is often depicted as “burning” in nature. Your elbow may be tender and sore to touch, and the pain can refer down to the forearm. The pain often increases with gripping, grasping, or rotating motions of the wrist and forearm. Bending and straightening your elbow may also be painful.

The severity of your pain may vary from a mild discomfort to severe pain that can interfere with your sleep and day to day activities. The pain typically starts gradually and then worsens over weeks or months.

Diagnosis

During your physical examination your physiotherapist will attempt to produce your pain in your elbow via specific tests and movements. They will assess your range of motion in your elbow, wrist, and shoulder joints. Referrals for X-rays and ultrasound scanning may be indicated to further support your diagnosis and to rule out other potential sources of your pain

Management

A mix of non-surgical treatment options are effective for the majority of tennis elbow cases, and self-resolves over time. You should rest your elbow and painful activities should be avoided. But it is very vital to maintain gentle movements of the forearm, elbow, and wrist through its range of motion.

Potential treatment options include:

  • Ice
  • Rest
  • Physiotherapy and acupuncture
  • Anti-inflammatory medications as recommended by your doctor or pharmacist
  • The use of a wrist and forearm brace or splint to support and rest your forearm

As your initial elbow pain lessens, your muscles around the elbow, forearm and wrist should be safely strengthened and stretched under guidance of a physiotherapist. Your physiotherapist will advise you on particular exercises, give you appropriate symptom management advice and take you through a personalised graduated rehabilitation program. If you continue to experience pain after 6-8 weeks of treatment, your physiotherapist can refer you back to your doctors, to consider administration of a cortisone injection into the elbow to help reduce pain and inflammation, and further referral onto see a specialist to seek guidance on other treatment options.

Helpful Exercises

By Physio Team acute pain, Appointments & Fees, back pain, body parts, chronic pain, ergonomics, Exercises, good posture, Home exercises, Injury, Lockdown, neck pain, online consultations, pain, Physio, posture, rehabilitation, sitting posture, Sprain, Therapy , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Pressure on the Spine in Different Posture

Did You Know?

 

Low back pain is a common health problem which affects up to 80% of the population at some stage in their life.

 

In New Zealand ACC spends in excess of $130 million a year treating back pain related injuries.

Most back pain occurs between the ages of 25 and 60, and most typically in the 40s.

 

 

 

In an era of smart devices, posture has never been more important or harder to achieve. As technology continues to grow, sitting at a desk on a computer or on our phones is becoming more prevalent at work. Having a sedentary desk job can result in sitting for around 8 hours a day. This position actually increases the load on your spine more than standing. Spinal pressure “sits” around 140mm pressure. This pressure usually does not hurt the back right away however, builds up over time and can even change the structure structure of your spine. So, if you slouch then spinal pressure increases to 190mm; add some weight and you’ve put 275 pounds of pressure on your spine.

 

A compromised spine constricts your blood vessels and nerves, causing problems with your muscles, discs, and joints. And all of these problems can lead to headaches, fatigue, and even breathing problems. Your back is a delicate machine. When one part falls out of alignment, it can affect everything setting off a domino effect and wreak havoc throughout your back and body.

 

 

Below is a graph showing different postures and the pressure it exerts on the spine;

But, remember: While you may feel comfortable and supported in your chair and find a perfect sitting posture, staying in the same position for long periods is not healthy for your spine. Varying your postures by occasionally standing and moving around for at least a few minutes each half hour will help keep your spinal joints, muscles, tendons, and ligaments loose and pain free.

 

Stand Up for Your Spine

If you don’t have a sit-stand desk, you can still combat “sitting disease” and protect your spine. Consider these tips:

  • Do some work standing at a high table or counter.

  • Use a lumbar roll behind your back when sitting to improve seated posture

  • Set a timer on your computer for a stand-and-stretch break every 30 minutes.

  • Exercise to assist in improving body weight to lessen additional load on the spine

  • Strengthen the core to provide additional support

The focus is simple: Reduce your sitting throughout the day. But, remember that varying postures is best for your back and neck, so do not go the opposite extreme and never sit. Alternating sitting, standing and movement throughout your day is the best way you can keep your spine safe and body healthy—at work and beyond

 

Still having back pain?

Schedule an initial assessment with one of our Physiotherapists so they can determine the root of the problem.  During this assessment your physiotherapist will be able to decide whether your pain is a source of nerve root irritation, discogenic, postural related, or musculoskeletal.  After arriving with the consensus of the problem, we will be able to use many techniques to relieve the back pain.  These include: manual therapy, therapeutic exercise, and postural recommendations.

 

To find your nearest Physio Fusion clinic and book an appointment call 09 6266186 or visit our website https://physiofusion.co.nz