Spine / Neck

Discs are found between the vertebrae in the spine. These discs are designed to be the body’s shock absorbers, while also allowing for spinal mobility. Over time, or with trauma, the discs may deteriorate and progress to either a bulge or herniation. Bulges and herniations can result in low back, buttocks and/or leg pain, weakness and other dysfunctions. Physical therapy can assist with the reduction of pain and symptoms associated with disc herniations. Skilled therapeutic treatments may consist of range of motion exercises, stretching, core stabilization, strengthening exercises, manual therapy, modalities, back mechanics, ergonomics and posture education. Patients are also provided with a home exercise program, which is customized to the individual’s needs.

Chondromalacia patellae is a pathology that effects the kneecap (patella). It is a softening and degeneration of the cartilage under the patella. This condition may also be referred to as patellofemoral syndrome. A variety of reasons could cause the cartilage to wear down including poor patellar tracking, muscular imbalance, and over use. Typically, pain occurs behind the kneecap, especially with knee bending and stressful activities such as squatting and ascending and descending stairs. Physical therapy can assist with normalizing muscular balance, decreasing pain, and return to function.

Spinal fusion is a surgical procedure that is utilized to stabilize vertebrae. Screws and rods are placed on to the spine in order to provide stability and allow a bony union (fusion) to occur. After this surgery, physical therapy is indicated to assist with a progression for a return to normal daily activities. Physical therapy treatment may consist of range of motion exercises, stretching, core stabilization, strengthening exercises, manual therapy, modalities, back mechanics, ergonomic and posture education. Patients are also provided with an individualized home exercise program.

Whiplash can occur from motor vehicle accidents and other traumatic events. It is a soft tissue injury to the neck musculature and support structures. This injury may also be called a neck sprain or strain. The mechanism of injury is most commonly a sudden backward movement of the neck followed by the neck rebounding forward in a rear-end accident. In this situation, the neck has been moved beyond its normal range of motion. In severe cases, other trauma may have occurred including: disc or herniation, nerve impingement, fracture, intervertebral joint damage along with muscular trauma.

Complaints of neck tightness and stiffness are the most prominent with this condition. Muscular spasming occurs to ‘splint’ the neck and upper back to avoid further injury. Physical therapy can assist with the reduction of pain and symptoms associated with whiplash. Skilled therapeutic treatments may consist of range of motion exercises, stretching, strengthening and stabilization exercises, manual therapy, modalities, back mechanics, ergonomics and posture education. Patients are also provided with an individualized home exercise program.