Conditions treated with vestibular rehab

Dizziness and problems with balance are symptomatic of a number of conditions, including: 

• Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV)
• Migraine headaches
• Labyrnthitis
• Meniere disease
• Stroke
• Traumatic brain injury
• Vertigo 

Feeling dizzy is caused by a lack of spatial awareness. When your brain fails to accurately signal where your body is in relation to your surroundings, you may feel woozy or light-headed. You may even feel nauseated and off-balance.

Balance is a complex phenomenon involving your inner ear structures, your vision, and the movement of your tissues, joints and muscles. All of these work together, sending signals to your central nervous system how to move or maintain balance.

What’s involved with vestibular therapy?

When you’re first evaluated, a physical therapist, also known as a vestibular therapist, will review your medical history as well as any lab work and testing that may have been prescribed. They’ll observe how you walk (your gait) and will examine your strength and flexibility. They’ll also ask questions about how dizziness and balance issues are affecting your life and when the problems occur.

Your vestibular therapist will develop a rehab program design to meet your specific goals and needs. The main goals of vestibular rehab are to help:

• Improve your balance
• Reduce your fall risk
• Reduce symptoms of dizziness
• Stabilize your vision
• Increase body strength

Your exercise program often includes a regimen of eye movement control, body strength training, and balance retraining.

One example of vestibular rehab is gaze stabilization. This is an important aspect of vision control because people with balance issues tend to complain of problems in which their eyes “bounce” or move around when they’re trying to focus. One example of gaze stabilization involves training the eyes on an object and then slowly moving the head while still fixating on the object. 

What to expect from vestibular rehab

Once you begin vestibular rehab and implement the exercises on a regular basis, you should experience a diminishing of dizziness and regaining of balance. Your progress will depend on your commitment to doing the exercises at home as well as at vestibular rehab appointments and may also depend on other factors, such as:

• Your general health (other medical conditions)
• Your activity level
• Pain management
• Medications 
• Stress, anxiety, emotional concerns

There’s also what’s called “decompensation,” which refers to relapse that may occur in the brain due to external factors such as when you get sick with the flu or you experience financial hardship or other life stressors that may trigger symptoms for you. 

You can always begin vestibular rehab therapy exercises again, however, to get back on track. 

Looking for a vestibular rehab therapist or just have questions? Give us a call at (941) 441-9171 or fill out the form and we’ll get back to you.

The post What Is Vestibular Rehab? (and How to Know When You Need It) appeared first on Restore Medical Partners.

You could also need physical therapy for any of the following reasons:

• A heart condition (e.g., COPD)
  
• Carpal tunnel syndrome, trigger finger, and other hand conditions
  
• Back pain, rotator cuff tears
  
• Stroke, Parkinson’s disease, spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injury, balance disorders, multiple sclerosis
  
• Concussion and other sports-related injuries

It’s also common to need physical therapy for pelvic floor dysfunction, such as urinary incontinence, and for burns and wound care.

How physical therapy can help you

Physical therapists are specially trained to diagnose your condition and provide a prognosis (outlook) as well as a treatment plan. The physical therapist takes into consideration your health history and condition before introducing a variety of therapies to help you heal and recover.

Types of physical therapy techniques may include:

• Gait training (for walking strength and stability)
• Functional activities
• Neuromuscular rehab (balance and posture training)
• Vestibular rehabilitation (balance training)
• Manual therapy 
• Manual/mechanical traction
• Passive range of motion and stretching pain modalities (ultrasound, electrical stimulation)
• Iontophoresis

All physical therapy programs also include a home exercise program to support the work you do with your physical therapist and an ongoing regimen for post-physical therapy.

Here are some ways physical therapy can help you:

• Avoid need for opioid medication for pain
• Avoid need for surgery
• Improve movement and functionality
• Help you recover from trauma or injury
• Help you recover from stroke
• Keep you from falling down
• Improve your balance
• Better manage age-related medical issues 

Find a physical therapist near you

You do not need a referral for physical therapy. If you think you might need physical therapy, get in touch today for a consultation. 

The post Do I Need Physical Therapy? appeared first on Restore Medical Partners.

What causes plantar fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is caused by inflammation of the plantar fascia, a band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot from the heel to the toes. The plantar fascia provides support for the foot and helps to maintain the arch of the foot. When the plantar fascia becomes inflamed, it can cause pain and stiffness.

How is plantar fasciitis diagnosed?

To diagnose plantar fasciitis, a healthcare provider such as a podiatrist will typically perform a physical examination of the foot and ask about your symptoms and medical history. The provider may also order imaging tests, such as an X-ray or MRI, to assess the condition of the plantar fascia and rule out other conditions that can cause similar symptoms.

Treatment for plantar fasciitis typically involves a combination of rest, ice, stretching, and other self-care measures. This may include:

Rest

Avoiding activities that cause pain or discomfort in the foot, such as standing or walking for long periods of time.

Ice

Applying ice to the affected area for 15-20 minutes at a time, several times a day, to help reduce inflammation and pain.

Stretching

Stretching the plantar fascia and other muscles in the foot to improve flexibility and reduce tension.

Orthotics

Wearing supportive shoes or inserts, such as arch supports or heel cups, to help reduce stress on the plantar fascia.

Physical therapy

Working with a physical therapist to perform exercises and stretches that can help to improve strength, flexibility, and function in the foot.

In some cases, medications, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), may be recommended to help relieve pain and inflammation. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to release the plantar fascia and alleviate pain.

Is plantar fasciitis permanent?

Plantar fasciitis is not a permanent condition, but it can take several months to a year or more to fully recover from the condition. The length of time it takes to recover from plantar fasciitis depends on a variety of factors, including the severity of the condition, your age and overall health, and your response to treatment.

It’s important to follow your treatment plan and continue with self-care measures, even after your symptoms have improved. This can help prevent the condition from recurring and maintain good foot health.

Need relief from plantar fasciitis? Make an appointment today. Call (941) 441-9171 or contact us online.

The post What Is Plantar Fasciitis? (and What You Should Do to Treat It) appeared first on Restore Medical Partners.

Stretching Exercises 

Stretching exercises are an important part of physical therapy. Stretches help loosen up tight muscles, which helps improve flexibility and mobility. When done correctly, stretching exercises can also help reduce muscle tension, inflammation, and joint stiffness. It is important to do stretching exercises gently and slowly so that you do not strain or injure yourself further. 

Balance Exercises 

Balance exercises are designed to challenge your body’s ability to stay upright. By improving your balance through targeted movements, you can reduce the risk of falls and other accidents related to poor coordination or lack of stability. Examples of balance exercises include standing on one foot for a set period of time or walking in a straight line without wobbling. These types of activities increase the strength in the core muscles, as well as in the legs, hips, ankles and feet – areas that are essential for maintaining balance when walking or running.  

• Heel Raises. Heel raises are simple exercises that can help improve your balance by strengthening your core muscles and the muscles in your legs. Start by standing on one foot with the opposite foot slightly off the ground. Bend your standing knee and rise up onto the ball of your foot while keeping your arms outstretched to keep you steady. Hold this position for a few seconds before lowering yourself back down slowly and repeating on both sides. 

• Single Leg Stance Holds. Single leg stance holds are similar to heel raises but require more focus on maintaining balance while holding the position for an extended period of time—usually 5-10 seconds per side depending on your fitness level. Begin by standing on one leg with the other leg slightly lifted off the ground and your arms outstretched to maintain balance if needed. Hold this position while focusing on keeping good posture until you feel comfortable doing without support from your arms then add arm movements such as circles or reaching up overhead or across the body to further challenge yourself. 

• Side Steps with Resistance Band/Tubing. This exercise works on improving lateral movement which is important for maintaining good balance when performing activities like walking or running. Start by looping a resistance band/tubing around your ankles and stand tall with feet hip width apart and arms outstretched for stability if needed. Step sideways using small steps while keeping tension on the band/tubing throughout each step then repeat going in both directions for 30 seconds – 1 minute per set depending upon fitness level or fatigue level, when in doubt go slower! 

Strength Training Exercises 

Strength training exercises are designed to strengthen weakened muscles and build strength in specific areas like the lower back or shoulders that may be causing pain or discomfort while moving around. Strength training also helps maintain stamina throughout daily activities such as carrying groceries or playing sports with friends. Some examples of strength training exercises include lifting weights, doing push-ups, sit-ups, squats, lunges etc., all exercises which target specific muscle groups depending on what area is being worked on.  

Physical therapy should always be done under the supervision of a qualified doctor or therapist so that it is safe and effective for each individual’s needs. Regularly practicing these physical therapy exercises will help improve your flexibility, balance and strength over time while reducing pain levels associated with chronic conditions such as arthritis or other musculoskeletal issues caused by injury or age-related conditions like osteoporosis. The key is consistency; by performing these physical therapy exercises regularly you can make significant progress towards improving your overall health and wellbeing over time!

Looking for a physical therapist or just have questions? Give us a call at (941) 375-3006 or fill out the form and we’ll get back to you.

The post Exercises to Improve Balance and Reduce Pain appeared first on Restore Medical Partners.

• Pain
• Weakness
• Loss of range of motion 

It can also limit your ability to perform daily activities.

What is rotator cuff tear rehabilitation?

Rotator cuff tear rehabilitation is a form of physical therapy that is designed to help you recover from a rotator cuff tear and regain shoulder strength, mobility, and function. Rehabilitation typically begins with a period of rest as well as avoidance of activities that cause pain or discomfort in the shoulder. This may be followed by a range of exercises and stretches that are designed to improve range of motion, strength, and flexibility in the shoulder.

The specific exercises and stretches used in rotator cuff tear rehabilitation will depend on the severity of the tear and your individual goals and needs. Some common exercises and stretches include:

Pendulum stretches

This exercise involves standing and leaning forward, allowing the injured arm to hang down and swing back and forth. This helps to improve range of motion in the shoulder.

Isometric exercises

These exercises involve contracting the muscles in the shoulder without moving the joint. This can help to improve muscle strength and stability.

Resistance exercises

These exercises involve using resistance bands or weights to provide additional resistance to the muscles in the shoulder. This can help to further improve muscle strength and function.

Range of motion exercises

These exercises involve moving the shoulder joint through its full range of motion to help improve flexibility and mobility.

Rotator cuff tear rehabilitation is typically performed under the guidance of a physical therapist, who can provide individualized instruction and guidance to help you safely and effectively progress through your rehabilitation program. Rehabilitation may also involve the use of assistive devices, such as shoulder braces or slings, to help support and protect the shoulder during the healing process.

Is a rotator cuff tear injury permanent?

A rotator cuff tear can be either partial or complete. It can be caused by a sudden injury or by the gradual wear and tear of the shoulder joint. The severity of the tear and the extent of the damage to the shoulder joint will determine the long-term effects of the injury.

In some cases, a rotator cuff tear may be repaired through surgery, which can help to restore function to the shoulder joint. Even with surgery, however, it’s not uncommon for a rotator cuff tear to result in some degree of permanent damage to the shoulder. This may include a loss of range of motion, weakness, or chronic pain.

The best course of treatment for a rotator cuff tear will depend on the individual circumstances of the injury, including the severity of the tear, your age and overall health, and your activity level. Physical therapy and other non-surgical treatment options are often the first course of action, while surgery may be necessary in some cases. It’s important to work closely with a medical professional to determine the most appropriate course of treatment for your specific situation.

In general, rotator cuff tear rehabilitation is an important part of the recovery process for anyone who has experienced a rotator cuff tear. By following a structured rehabilitation program, you can regain strength, mobility, and function in the shoulder, and reduce the risk of future injury.

Find out more about rotator cuff tear rehabilitation 

Our skilled physical therapists will develop a customized rotator cuff tear rehab program to meet your needs. We look forward to meeting you. Call (941) 375-3006 for an appointment or contact us online.

The post Rotator Cuff Tear Rehabilitation: How to Prepare, What to Expect appeared first on Restore Medical Partners.

We are excited about these changes and look forward to continuing our mission of helping you restore your physical well-being and improve your quality of life. To schedule a time to meet our new providers and see our physical therapy space, give us a call today at 941-375-3006.

Michelle Harmon, DPT

Physical Therapist

Jeffrey Thompson, DPT

Physical Therapist

Stacy Martin, PTA

Physical Therapist Assistant

Zackary Carter, PTA

Physical Therapist Assistant

The post Enhancing Care and Convenience: Restore Medical Partners’ Physical Therapy Office Relocation and New Team Members appeared first on Restore Medical Partners.

The Impact of Stress on Chronic Pain

Stress can amplify the perception of pain and contribute to developing chronic pain conditions. When we experience stress, our bodies release stress hormones, such as cortisol and adrenaline, which activate various physiological responses. These responses can sensitize the nervous system, making it more susceptible to pain signals. Consequently, individuals under chronic stress may experience heightened pain sensitivity, leading to persistent or worsening chronic pain conditions.

The Role of the Nervous System

The Sympathetic Nervous System

The sympathetic nervous system, often called the “fight-or-flight” response, plays a significant role in stress and pain modulation. When activated, it triggers a cascade of physiological changes that prepare the body to respond to perceived threats. However, prolonged sympathetic nervous system activation can lead to chronic stress and worsening pain symptoms.

The HPA Axis

Another key player in the stress-pain connection is the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. The HPA axis regulates the body’s stress response by releasing cortisol. Elevated cortisol levels commonly occur during chronic stress, increasing pain perception and reducing the body’s ability to control inflammation, further contributing to chronic pain conditions.

Psychological Factors

Apart from the physiological mechanisms, psychological factors also play a crucial role in the link between stress and chronic pain. How we perceive and respond to stress can significantly influence pain intensity and duration.

Cognitive Appraisal

Our cognitive appraisal, or how we interpret and evaluate stressful situations, can impact our pain experience. Negative thought patterns, catastrophizing, and excessive worrying can intensify pain sensations. On the other hand, adopting a positive mindset and reframing stressors can help alleviate pain symptoms.

Emotional Regulation

Emotional regulation skills are essential in managing both stress and chronic pain. Emotions such as anxiety, depression, and anger can exacerbate pain levels. Learning effective dynamic regulation strategies, such as deep breathing exercises, mindfulness, and seeking professional support, can help individuals better cope with stress-induced pain.

Coping Strategies for Managing Stress and Chronic Pain

A holistic approach that addresses the mind and body is necessary to manage stress and chronic pain effectively. Here are some evidence-based coping strategies:

Mindfulness and Meditation

Mindfulness and meditation can help individuals cultivate awareness and accept their pain and stressors. Mindfulness-based stress reduction programs have shown promising results in reducing pain severity and improving overall well-being.

Physical Activity and Exercise

Engaging in regular physical activity and exercise releases endorphins, which are natural painkillers and mood enhancers. Low-impact activities such as walking, swimming, or yoga can particularly benefit individuals with chronic pain.

Social Support

Maintaining a strong support network is crucial in managing stress and chronic pain. Sharing experiences and seeking emotional support from friends, family, or support groups can alleviate feelings of isolation and provide practical coping strategies.

Relaxation Techniques

Practicing relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, or guided imagery, can help reduce muscle tension, promote peace, and decrease pain perception.

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

CBT is a therapeutic approach that identifies and changes negative thought patterns and behaviors. It can help individuals develop effective coping strategies, challenge pain-related beliefs, and improve overall well-being.

Nutrition and Lifestyle Modifications

Maintaining a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle habits can also contribute to stress and pain management. Consuming nutrient-dense foods, staying hydrated, getting adequate sleep, and minimizing caffeine and alcohol intake can positively impact overall well-being.

Balancing Work and Personal Life

Finding a healthy work-life balance is crucial in managing stress and chronic pain. Setting boundaries, prioritizing self-care, and engaging in activities that bring joy and relaxation can help individuals better cope with stressors.

Ultimately, stress and chronic pain are intertwined, exacerbating each condition. By understanding the link between stress and chronic pain and implementing effective coping strategies, individuals can regain control over their lives and improve their overall well-being. Practicing mindfulness, engaging in physical activity, seeking social support, and adopting healthy lifestyle habits are just a few strategies that can make a significant difference in managing stress-induced pain. Finding the right combination of coping strategies may require trial and error, but the journey toward a healthier, pain-free life is worth it.

The post Effective Coping Strategies for Stress and Chronic Pain: Understanding the Link appeared first on Restore Medical Partners.

The Readers’ Choice awards program starts with public nominations, and from the top five nominees in each category, the voting round selects the finalists and winners. The nomination responses were overwhelming this year! Only the top businesses in each category made it to the final voting stage and, as one of those top businesses, we want to personally say THANK YOU to all of our patients and friends that took the time to vote for our Care Team.

These awards celebrate and recognize the best our community has to offer and we are thrilled to be recognized among some of the most prestigious businesses in the Sarasota Community.

SEE ALL WINNERS & FINALISTS

LEARN MORE ABOUT READERS’ CHOICE

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Our Team was awarded in three categories.

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