Your Health - Common Injuries

With today's active lifestyles, we put our bodies at risk more than ever before. As a result, our therapists have seen and successfully treated many common injuries.

Please note, this information is for educational and informational purposes only. Please contact your physician prior to starting any rehabilitation program if you have experienced any injuries or discomfort.

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Common Neck Injuries

The neck is made up of vertebrae which are held together by muscles and ligaments. Between the vertebrae are disks and nerves. Your neck pain may be a result of a problem with any one of these neck components.

Treatment of neck injuries typically includes the use of specialized techniques and local modalities to decrease pain and increase motion. Our expertise includes strategic use of cervical stabilization exercises and strong home programs to help relieve of your neck problems.

Arthritis
As a result of aging, disks become worn out and allow the vertebrae to touch each other. Gradually this will cause pain and may allow bone spurs to develop and other joints of the spinal vertebrae to degenerate.

Herniated Disk
The jelly-like portion of the intervertebral disk is squeezed, causing the outer wall of the disk to bulge. Some of the more common causes for a herniated disk include heavy lifting using poor body mechanics, poor posture, and trauma.

Muscle Spasm/Inflammation
Your brain may be sending a message to one or more muscles in the neck telling it to tense up. The muscle will be tender and painful. Muscle spasms are the neck’s way of protecting itself or are a result of stress.

Whiplash/Strain
This is the overstretching, tearing, and irritation of muscle and ligament fibers. Car accidents, falls, some types of work, and certain sports injuries are common causes of neck strain.

Common Back Injuries

The back is made up of vertebrae and disks which are stabilized by ligaments, muscles and tendons. Over time, poor posture can cause problems such as worn disks to happen prematurely.

Back injuries require a thorough and comprehensive evaluation by one of our manually trained therapists. In addition to a manual hands on approach that will assist in reducing discomfort and regaining mobility of the spine, we include a strong back stabilization home exercise program.

Arthritis
As a result of aging, disks become worn out and allow the vertebrae to touch each other. Gradually, this might cause bone spurs to develop and other joints of the spinal vertebrae to degenerate and cause pain.

Bulging/Herniated Disk
Repeated bending can cause your disks to wear out. When this happens, the jelly-like substance inside of the disk will put pressure on outside structures such as nerves. This can cause arm or leg pain, depending on the location of the disk injury.

Joint Instability
As a disk stretches and flattens, it can cause instability in the spine. If your spine is unstable, it opens up opportunity for a more serious injury to occur.

Muscle Spasm/Inflammation
Your brain may be sending a message to one or more muscles in the neck telling it to tense up. The muscle will be tender and painful. Muscle spasms are the neck's or back's way of protecting itself or a result of stress.

Common Shoulder Injuries

The shoulder consists of a ball and socket joint which is held in place by muscles, tendons, and ligaments. Falls, repetitive motion, and overuse are general causes of injuries to the shoulder.

Shoulder injuries are typically treated via specialized techniques and modalities to decrease pain and inflammation. In addition, we provide exercises to stabilize and strengthen the shoulder, manual stretching to regain functional range of motion, and education on shoulder injury prevention.

Arthritis
Often a result of a degeneration of the gleno-humeral joint, arthritis is inflammation which causes pain and a decrease in motion.

Bursitis
In the shoulder, a pad-like sac containing fluid acts to reduce friction between bones and tendons. This structure, called a bursa, may become inflamed due to repeated overhead movement or overuse. Inflammation of the bursa is called bursitis.

Fracture
A shoulder fracture is a break in one or more of the bones that make up the shoulder. A fracture can happen as a result of a fall or trauma.

Frozen Shoulder
This condition can also be referred to as adhesive capsulitis. The ligaments and capsule of the shoulder contract causing pain and loss in range of motion. This condition often responds well to stretching.

Impingement
An impingement can happen as a result of a weak rotator cuff and swollen bursa. A narrowing of the space in the shoulder allowing movement causes structures to get pinched. Impingement is often characterized by pain, pinching, and stiffness. Overhead motions and repetitive motion are usually the cause of the problem.

Rotator Cuff Strain
Overstretching or overuse of the muscles that make up the rotator cuff can cause a rotator cuff strain. It often involves pain in the shoulder. The strain is often a result of "overdoing it."

Rotator Cuff Tear
A rotator cuff tear occurs when the muscles that make up the rotator cuff are separated or pulled apart. All or one of the muscles may be affected. A torn rotator cuff can happen as a result of trauma, ongoing tendonitis, or overuse.

Tendonitis
Tendonitis occurs when one or more of the tendons that are involved with shoulder movement become inflamed. A tendon is the portion of muscle that attaches the muscle to the bone. Inflammation of the tendons may cause a narrowing of the space in the shoulder that allows movement.

Thoracic Outlet Syndrome
This problem often affects musicians and includes symptoms of fatigue and numbness of the arm or hand with use. The thoracic outlet refers to the area of the body where the neck, chest, and shoulder come together. Problems occur in this area when nerves and blood vessles become compressed.

Common Elbow Injuries

The elbow area includes muscles, tendons, bone and nerves. These structures are also connected to your hand and arm. A painful elbow can cause much frustration and affect hand and arm movement.

Treatment of elbow injuries focuses on increasing the patient's range of motion and providing strengthening exercises. Specialized techniques and modalities are also used to decrease pain, inflammation, numbness, and tingling.

Bursitis
Swelling and pain in the bursa, a fluid filled cushion at the tip of your elbow, can be caused by a sharp blow or constant trauma to the elbow.

Cubital Tunnel
This condition occurs when the ulnar nerve gets entrapped within the elbow joint. The ulnar nerve is otherwise known as the "funny bone" and can cause problems if it becomes compressed.

Fractures
You can shatter or crack any of the 3 bones that make up the elbow. This can happen by falling or bumping your elbow. Pain and swelling can result due to a fracture.

Medial/Lateral Epicondylitis
Use of your hand or elbow repeatedly in the wrong way can cause an elbow muscle or tendon to become strained, inflamed, or torn. You may notice your elbow is red, swollen or tender. Sharp pain can make everyday activities difficult, such as turning your hand or lifting a small object.

Nerve Irritation
You may irritate or pinch a nerve by leaning too hard on your elbow, causing numbness, tingling, and pain in the elbow.

Common Hand/Wrist Injuries

The hand is one the most complex areas of the body. The hand and wrist are made up of bones, joints, and “soft tissues” such as muscles, ligaments, tendons, and nerves. There are many injuries that can occur to the hand and wrist.

Due to the complex structure of the hand and wrist, Joint Effort has gone to great lengths to ensure our therapy program provides the most effective treatment possible. Custom splinting is available when necessary, as well as programs designed to increase range of motion and strength. We also provide education on properly performed tasks that do not provoke irritation and pain.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
This is caused by too much pressure on a nerve in the wrist. Carpal Tunnel causes numbness or pain in the thumb, index and middle fingers, and part of the ring finger. It's a common condition in people who have to use their hands for long periods of time, like computer workers. Repeated movement and overuse can cause tendons and sheaths to swell. These then press on the nerve, causing numbness.

DeQuervain's
DeQuervain's is a condition that affects the thumb and the wrist. Tightness and inflammation of the tendon prevent normal movement. Pain and tenderness on the thumb side of the wrist is prevalent. You may also feel a small knot or pain when you turn your wrist, make a fist or grasp something.

Fractures
The hand has 27 bones. Falling on your hand, jamming or twisting fingers and direct blows are the most common causes of a fracture. Since there are so many bones in the hand, each type of fracture is handled per its severity. Pain, swelling and loss of motion are to be expected with fractures.

Tendon/Ligament Strains and Tears
Torn ligaments and surrounding tissue can cause severe pain and swelling. A partially torn ligament can repair itself, with the assistance of a cast or splint. Surgery may be needed to repair severely torn ligaments. Therapy is important for each of these conditions to keep the hand functioning appropriately to avoid disability.

Tendon Cuts (lacerations)
If a tendon in the hand is partially or completely cut, it is highly important for the tendon to heal properly. Improper healing of the tendon can cause scar tissue to form. Surgery may be needed for complete tendon cuts.

Tendonitis
This is common when the tendon becomes inflamed and overused. Tenderness and pain accompany tendonitis.

Trigger Finger
Trigger finger is a clicking or locking of a finger. It can be painless or cause pain. Untreated, the finger can get unexpectedly locked in the bent position and cannot be unlocked or straightened anymore. This may occur in one or more fingers at the same time.

Common Hip Injuries

The hip consists of a ball and socket joint which is held in place by muscles, tendons, and ligaments. The hip is crucial in providing support during common weight bearing activities such as walking.

Joint Effort offers a comprehensive approach to hip disorders. In addition to hands on therapy, a strong exercise and flexibility program will eliminate hip discomfort and get you back to enjoying your active lifestyle.

Bursitis
The hip joint involves bones, muscle, tendons and bursa that facilitate leg movement. Damage to the hip joint can cause pain and a limitation in function due to an inflammation of the bursa.

Fractures
A fracture to the hip usually involves the upper portion of the femur. Surgery is sometimes needed to repair the broken bone.

Hip Replacement
An artificial hip is surgically put in the place of the existing hip. Going to physical therapy in preparation for a hip replacement can significantly reduce the recovery time.

Tightness
Occasionally general tightness in the joint capsule and surrounding soft tissues can cause discomfort and problems with mobility.

Common Knee Injuries

The knee absorbs much of the stress and impact from many daily activities. Common injuries treated as a result of this stress include degeneration, sprains, strains, and tears.

Joint Effort offers one of the best and most complete approaches to knee injuries. Our therapists excel in their knowledge of biomechanics and knee rehab techniques. Our strong, individualized home programs include closed chain (feet on the ground) exercises designed to enhance the return of strength and function.

Arthritis
As the cartilage on the back of the patella and groove of the thigh bone wears out, it causes arthritis. This can be painful and cause pressure against the bones to become excessive or uneven, causing even more damage.

Ligament Tear/Strain
Ligaments connect the leg bones and support the knee. Trauma to the leg involving twisting may tear one or more of the ligaments in the knee. A partial tear may not need to be repaired but a full tear may need to be reconstructed and followed with Physical Therapy.

Meniscus Injuries (cartilage)
A sudden leg twist or repeated squatting motion can injure or tear a meniscus. This may cause your knee to swell and hurt. Your knee may also stiffen and lock when you try to bend it.

Patella Pain (knee cap)
When the patella is off track it is not able to glide smoothly against the thigh bone. When this happens, it may make movement painful or difficult. If the patella remains off track, it is possible to damage the patella and some of the soft tissues behind it.

Common Foot/Ankle Injuries

One of the most complex areas of the body, the foot consists of over 20 bones which are supported by several ligaments, tendons, and muscles.

With one of the most knowledgeable group of therapists you can find, our experts can help with your foot and ankle concerns. We also offer cost effective, custom fit orthotics. Be it acute pain or chronic discomfort, your treatment will be customized to fit your needs. The latest research and techniques are used to decrease pain and restore motion and function.

Fracture
One of the many bones in the foot or ankle can be shattered or cracked due to trauma. Fractures are often immobilized for a period of time and then physical therapy can return function to the foot or ankle.

Heel Spur
major source of heel pain can come from a heel spur. A heel spur develops as an abnormal growth on the heel bone (calcaneous).

Plantar Fasciitis
This condition is an inflammation of the plantar fascia which can cause heel pain. The plantar fascia is a ligament-like structure that passes from the heel to forefoot. Pain and inflammation is caused by partial tearing or pulling away from the heel.

Tendon/ Ligament Strain/Sprain
This injury is a common occurance and involves the ankle joint and accompanying ligaments. This can be a partial or full tear of the ligaments and occurs most commonly on the outside of the ankle.

Health Tips

Body mechanics

Body mechanics are important to remember when lifting any object. Keep the head upright and the back in an arched position. Keep weight close to the body.

Injury Prevention

To prevent injury, always do stretching after your strengthening exercises. Discuss any pain you are having with your therapist.

Success Stories

Before my feet hurt and everytime I would run my heels would have a bad pain. But then you guys helped me out. Now when I go to run or do an activity I feel no pain." (10 years old)

Colby Rasplicka

For 12 years I have had dizziness when rolling over in bed and when bending over to where my head is below my waist; this followed a week of extreme dizziness in 1992 when I was unable to stand, lie or sit up straight, apparently due to inner ear problems. After 3...

Jane Fansler

I came into Joint Effort feeling terrible with severe pain in my head, neck and shoulders. I was in enough pain that my doctor gave me Vicodin! After a month of therapy I feel like a new person. I really haven't felt this good in years. I would recommend them to anyone...

Catherine Schaller

Dry Needling is magic! I came in with severe sciatica and got immediate relief after the first session. My symptoms were fully gone after several sessions. I highly recommend Joint Effort. The staff are all very professional and caring.

Ed Griggs

I came into Joint Effort for rehabilitation after having surgery to replace my ACL (knee reconstruction). Most people told me that recovery would take six months; I was able to return to my normal activities within two months! I was even able to compete in (and win!) the...

Ashley Dekeyser

When I started with Joint Effort I was having severe neck pain and spasms. I would like to state that today I am pain-free. My therapist was very in tune with my condition and with all his effort helped me with my body healing process. I extend many thank-yous to him and...

Shirley DiLorenzo

When I was prescibed physical therapy following my 3rd low back surgery, I was less than thrilled. I had experienced an increase in pain and additional injury in the past during therapy elsewhere. Here at Joint Effort I have found therapy to be a godsend. The level of...

Chris Jordan

As an MD in a private practice, I've sent patients for years...but now it was my turn to be a patient (total knee replacement). The therapists were supportive, optimistic and always encouraging. The rest of the staff was equally cheerful and sunny. Overall an excellent...

Bruce Pattee, MD

When I first arrived at Joint Effort, I had extreme lower back pain which had a negative impact on my quality of life. I couldn't even stand straight without suffering from severe spasms. Joint Effort gave me my life back! I am now able to enjoy and take care of my baby...

Sherri Kuhlman

I went to the Dr. with a sore shoulder. The tendon was popping every time I raised my arm. They diagnosed it as tendonitis and sent me to Joint Effort. I never have heard anything good about physical therapy but I kept an open mind and did everything they suggested here...

Justin Noyce