Injury of the week...

Scaphoid fracture

 

The scaphoid is a bone in the hand near the base of the thumb, as you can see below. Make a "thumbs up" and the scaphoid is right at the base of the hollow area.

A scaphoid fracture is usually caused when an individual falls on their outstretched hand with the weight landing on the palm.

Signs and symptoms of this fracture include pain and swelling at the base of the thumb. It might not be obvious the bone is fractured because there usually is not a visible deformity.

Physical therapy is a treatment option for scaphoid fractures. Patients would learn exercises to maintain range of motion at their wrist and fingers and strengthen muscles in the hand.

One great exercise is with a rubber band. For this exercise, you wrap a rubber band around all the fingers; then you open your hand making a bigger circle. After, slowly close your hand again making sure to control the motion.

 

Russian Twist

Hi All!


Checkout our new YouTube video! This week's exercise is the Russian Twist; it's a great core exercise!


https://www.youtube.com/RussianTwist

Injury of the week...

Knee Synovitis
 

Knee synovitis occurs when the synovial membrane, which lines and lubricates the knee joint, becomes inflamed, which you can see in the picture below.

The cause of this diagnosis is usually secondary and will result from another condition, such as arthritis and joint replacement surgery. Some common symptoms of this are swelling of the knee, pain, stiffness and possible warmth to touch.

Treatment for knee synovitis could include rest and physical therapy. Physical therapy will introduce modalities such as ice, heat, and exercises to decrease pain and increase range of motion.

One helpful exercise for this condition would be TKE (terminal knee extension). This is an essential exercise for strengthening the quadriceps. As seen below, with a resistance band wrapped behind the knee, bend knee forward slightly, then extend back, holding the quads tight for about 5 seconds.

 

Injury of the Week...

 

Flatfoot (aka: Pes Planus)

Flatfoot is a condition in which the longitudinal arch of the foot has lowered or flattened.

Causes of flatfoot:

-The tendons that make up the arch are damaged and/or overused
-Damage or inflammation of the posterior tibial tendon, which runs down the back of the leg and inserts into the arch
-Some health conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis and stroke
-Genetics

Individuals with flatfoot do not always experience symptoms, but some may include:
-Pain in the arches with certain physical activities (standing, running, jumping)
-Feet that feel "tired"
-Swelling on the bottom of the feet
-Back and leg pain

Physical therapy can introduce several stretches and exercises to help correct the foot position and strengthen the muscles around the ankle. Modalities such as ultrasound and electrical stimulation help with pain management.

An easy exercise to do at home is "short foot". With the foot flat on the floor, arch middle portion of foot towards ceiling, hold for 3 seconds, and relax. Repeat ten times.

Injury of the week...

Piriformis Syndrome

 

Piriformis syndrome is a neuromuscular disorder that occurs when the piriformis muscle compresses or irritates the sciatic nerve, which is the largest nerve in the body. Pain, tingling, or numbness starts in the buttocks and can extend to the legs.

A physical therapist will guide you through a customized program of exercises and stretches to help reduce tightness and irritation. A beneficial way to prevent symptoms is called the piriformis stretch. Start by lying on the back with both feet flat on the floor and both knees bent. Pull the right knee up to the chest, grasp the knee with the left hand and pull it towards the left shoulder and hold the stretch. Repeat for each side. If this position is challenging, try a seated piriformis stretch.

Benefits of Drinking Lemon Water...

Benefits of Drinking Lemon Water!

Lemons are packed with vitamins, calcium, iron, magnesium, potassium, and fiber. An easy way to add these healthy components to your daily diet is by drinking lemon water.

Incorporating lemon water aids ...digestion, metabolism, improves the immune system, helps flush out toxins, and promotes normal hunger levels. If you're interested in cutting back on coffee or caffeine, try replacing it with lemon water for an energy boost!

Squeeze half of a lemon or cut 2-3 slices to add in your water to get all these benefits. In addition, it will also freshens your breath!

Belmont Shore Physical Therapy wishes everyone a...