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East Athens Physical Therapy has developed a variety of specialty programs for health-related problems: Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy Industrial Rehabilitation and Injury Prevention McKenzie Lower Back and Neck Program Post-Operative Breast Cancer Surgery
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Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is a sense of numbness, pain, or tingling in the hands or wrists, sometimes extending as far as the shoulder. The pain sometimes worsens at night and can result in clumsiness when using the hand or wrist. This condition is common with those performing repetitive motion at work or home, such as on an assembly line or typing. Other causes include pregnancy, poor sleeping posture, and repetition in sports or when playing an instrument. Physical therapy can be used to treat mild to moderate cases of carpal tunnel with appropriate modalities and exercises. Education about the syndrome is also provided so as to prevent future injuries.
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Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy The most common diabetic neuropathy, peripheral neuropathy, affects the legs, feet, arms, and hands. Sharp pain and loss of sensation in the affected areas may lead to decreased balance and an eventual fall. Other symptoms include numbness, tingling or prickling sensations, cramps, and sensitivity to light touch or clothing. Often, these conditions may worsen at night and can lead to muscle weakness in the lower legs that can inhibit walking. Individual treatment plans may be created for each patient by a physical therapist that will help improve mobility and regain strength. Treatment plans may include education on fall prevention, diabetic foot care, and exercise programs. Also used is the state-of-the-art RevitaMed Therapeutic System utilizing infrared light therapy. This system is recognized by the FDA to increase circulation and reduce the pain suffered by those with Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy.
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Industrial Rehabilitation and Injury Prevention With increasing interest in reducing workplace injuries and increasing productivity, East Athens Physical Therapy now offers a four-tiered physical therapy program designed to reach these particular goals. Education: Free educational programs aimed at preventing injuries by teaching lifting techniques and postural positioning Ergonomic Analysis: Work site analysis provided by a physical therapist who can help reduce injuries due to postural alignment, improper work stations, etc. Pre-Employment Screening: Skilled physical therapists can help determine in a non-discriminatory fashion the ability of the applicant to perform a pre-determined job description Rehabilitation: Aggressive physical therapy techniques to help workers return to their jobs as quickly as possible Therapists work hand-in-hand with employers and physicians to educate the worker on how to prevent future injuries, as well as aggressive rehabilitation to facilitate healing and recovery.
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McKenzie Lower Back and Neck Program Lower back pain is the number one cause of inactivity in people under 45, as well as the number two reason people see their doctor, second only to colds and flu. The McKenzie method quickly identifies the source of the pain and introduces strategies to alleviate back and neck pain immediately. This mechanical examination can categorize most patient’s conditions by the level of pain or limitation that results from certain movement or positions. A certified McKenzie physical therapist prescribes a series of individualized exercises and can provide advanced manual techniques to accelerate a patient’s recovery. Treatment protocols progress the patient toward self-management of the problem which ultimately decreases office visits.
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Osteoarthritis Rehabilitation Osteoarthritis is easily the most common form of arthritis and is caused by the degeneration of cartilage between the joints. Most people will eventually suffer from some degree of Osteoarthritis secondary to age. This gradual sign of wear and tear usually affects the larger and most often used joints such as the hands, feet, spine, knees, and hips. In conjunction with medication, physical therapy programs can be implemented to lessen the pain and loss of function caused by Osteoarthritis. These plans may include a variety of exercises designed to quickly enable the patient to resume daily activities pain-free.
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Osteoporosis Rehabilitation Osteoporosis, sometimes known as “the silent disease”, occurs with little or no symptoms and may lead to serious health consequences, usually in the form of bone fractures. Caused by deficiencies in calcium and Vitamin D, factors such as a thin frame, sedentary lifestyle, and cigarette smoking may also aid in the onset of this disease. While over 80% of those suffering from Osteoporosis are female, one in four men and one in two women over the age of 50 will sustain an osteoporosis fracture in their later years. Hip, spine, and wrist fractures are the most common and often require hospitalization and surgery to correct. Physical therapists use two types of exercises to combat the disease’s effects: weight bearing and resistance. Both of these programs help bones become stronger and assist in fall prevention and improved mobility. Independence and full function are the ultimate goals of these physical therapy exercises.
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Post-Operative Breast Cancer Surgery Many breast cancer patients report feeling pain, tightness, weakness, and loss of function after their surgeries. These ailments can be caused by such factors as postural changes, scar formation, and even a fear of using the affected arm. These problems can be corrected with the assistance of a physical therapist, but if left untreated may lead to stiffness, swelling, and muscle shortening. Prompt physical therapy care promotes healing and overall wellness after treatment. Patients will be instructed on topics such as posture, and will learn exercises to benefit levels of strength, range of motion, and soft tissue mobilization. Just as important as the education of the patient is the compassion displayed by the physical therapist during such programs. |
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