Ask an Expert: What Steps Can I Take to Avoid the Problem from Returning and Needing Further Physical Therapy?

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Question: Now that my condition has improved and I’m feeling much better, what steps can I take to avoid the problem from returning and needing further physical therapy?

Answer: During your physical therapy (PT) sessions, we conduct a comprehensive assessment to identify factors that may have led to your initial issue. These factors can include strength imbalances, posture issues, balance deficits, and ergonomic considerations such as workstation setup, and footwear choices. Additionally, we address sport-specific, lifestyle, and job-related factors that may contribute to your condition.

To prevent the recurrence of your issue, it is crucial to integrate the techniques and interventions learned during PT into your daily routine. This proactive approach significantly reduces the likelihood of a relapse. You’ll also receive a tailored home exercise program designed to help you maintain the strength gains achieved during your PT sessions. We prioritize designing a program that is both effective and manageable, ensuring it doesn’t become burdensome in your daily life.

Jennie Gaskill, PTA

 

Ask an Expert: How Can Therapy Help If I Have a Rotator Cuff Tear?

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Question: What does the rotator cuff do, and how can therapy help if I have a rotator cuff tear?

Answer: The rotator cuff is a group of four muscles that work together to perform rotational movements of the upper arm, but also to maintain stability of the joint by preventing excessive sliding around of the “ball” (head of the humerus) in the “socket” (glenoid fossa) of the shoulder and scapula, and by keeping the ball centered in the socket.

There can be normal changes in the structure of the rotator cuff musculature, just as there are in the bones of a joint as we age.  Therefore, the rotator cuff is more susceptible to tears after age 50.

A partially torn rotator cuff can improve with Occupational or Physical Therapy intervention by providing treatment to reduce pain associated with a tear. Education in activity and postural modification, as well as instruction in therapeutic exercise and activity are also provided.  The purpose of this is to increase the stability of the shoulder joint, to keep the ball centered in the socket, maximize the space through which the rotator cuff muscles travel in the top shoulder joint to decrease pressure on the rotator cuff, and increase the ease of overhead reach and rotation. This can enable one to return to pain-free function of the involved arm, to perform activities such as fixing one’s hair, throwing a ball, playing golf, or casting that fishing line!

Erin Winters, OTR at Putnam County Hospital

Ask an Expert: How Long Will it Take to Recover From a Stroke and When Should I Start Therapy?

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Question: How long will it take to recover from a stroke and when should I start therapy?

Answer: Every stroke is different, just as every person is different. Generally, you will see the most improvement or recovery within six months to a year. After a year, recovery and improvements are still possible, however, the rate of recovery tends to slow down.

To minimize disability and improve your recovery, therapies should begin as soon as possible. It is common for patients to think they need to rest after a stroke, but research shows greater improvements if you start therapy 24-48 hours post stroke.

There are various factors that may affect your rate of recovery including:

  • Severity of stroke regarding physical and cognitive aspects
  • Emotional factors that affect mood and motivation
  • Social environment and support of family/friends

It is normal to experience a wide range of difficulties or “bumps” along the way that could impede or slow progress including other medical complications. Once you have a stroke, you are at a higher risk to have a another stroke. It is important to continue to monitor blood pressure, blood sugar and heart rate, take all prescribed medications, follow up with doctors, and continue with therapies.

Erica Howard, PT, DPT