Our Specialties
You absolutely deserve an extraordinary experience that goes beyond what the traditional medical system offers By prioritizing your health, you've made a fantastic choice, and we're here to ensure your success every step of the way. Say goodbye to rushed appointments and hello to thorough assessments, expert treatments, and uninterrupted 1-on-1 sessions! Together, we’ll craft a personalized plan to alleviate your pain and support you on your long-term health journey.
At EZEPhysical Therapy, we’re all about embracing the idea that EXCELLENCE LOOKS DIFFERENT - and by different, we mean superior! We stand firm in our commitment to achieving the best outcomes for our clients.
NECK PAIN AND HEADACHES
You Don’t Have to Keep That Pain in Your Neck! Your neck pain may be controlling your life, but it doesn’t have to. Your neck is an integral area of everyday movement, and sharp pains can prevent you from functioning properly in your day-to-day life. Neck pain also causes debilitating and extremely uncomfortable sensations, especially if the pain stretches from your neck down to your shoulders. According to the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA), approximately one-third of the population will experience pain in any given year. It can get worse if left untreated, and in severe cases, surgery may be necessary. There’s some good news on the horizon though, many people are able to find relief from their neck pain every year through the help of physical therapy! Common symptoms of neck pain Neck pain typically runs from the base of a person’s skull to the top of their shoulder blades, finally settling in the back of the neck. The pain can vary in severity, from a constant dull ache to sharp and stabbing pains. Neck Pain can sometimes include additional symptoms, including but not limited to: •Inability to fully stand up or sit up straight. •Stiffness and muscle tightness in the upper body. •Discomfort and pain when remaining in the same position for too long. •Loss of sleep due to pain and discomfort. •Numbness or tingling into the upper extremities. •Headaches. •Arm weakness. Common reasons for experiencing neck pain Injuries to tissues and bone are the most common reason for pain, however, certain degenerative conditions can also lead to pain. Some common conditions that give you pain in your neck include: •Illnesses Certain diseases and ailments can result in neck pain, such as rheumatoid cancer, arthritis, and meningitis. •Muscle strains Even something as simple as sitting at your desk all day with your neck craned toward the computer screen can cause your neck muscles to become strained by overuse. •Compressed nerves If you have a herniated disc in your neck or narrowing of the foramen (space where the nerves exit the spine), the nerves that branch out from your spinal cord can become compressed. In some cases, nerve pain can even extend from the neck all the way down to the hands and fingers - a condition known as “radiculopathy.” •Injuries Whiplash is one of the most common injuries that result in pain, typically sustained by an automobile or high-impact sports collision. This is known as a “strain” injury, causing the head to whip rapidly back-and-forth, thus affecting the soft tissues in the back of the neck. •Degenerative joint conditions Conditions such as osteoarthritis can also reduce the cartilage between the vertebrae in the neck, also resulting in pain. Much like any other joint in your body, the neck joints can erode with age, causing pain. Physical therapy is one of the best methods for treating neck pain and we will help you get started on the road towards long-lasting pain relief. At EZEPhysical Therapy, our physical therapists will conduct a thorough physical evaluation to analyze the range of motion in your neck, as well as any limitations you have due to your pain. Next, they’ll make a diagnosis that will determine what your treatment plan will be like. Together you will work to understand the goals and expectations of each step in your individualized treatment plan. The main goal will be eliminating your neck pain and recovering as quickly as possible. If it’s necessary, your therapist will work with your primary care physician as well! You may be wondering what treatments for your pain will most likely include. Our physical therapists will provide you with targeted exercises that will strengthen, build, and improve the muscles and tissues in your neck. Many therapists utilize manual or “hands-on” therapy, which consists of special techniques such as spinal mobilization and manipulations designed to reduce the stiffness of your neck and improve its range of motion. We will focus on improving your posture to aid in the recovery of your neck muscles, as well as avoiding re-injury in the future. Additional treatment services may include dry needling, myofascial release, ultrasound, or electrical stimulation, as our physical therapist deems fit. Ditch the pain in your neck and request an appointment at one of our clinics to get started on the first steps toward recovery!
BACK PAIN AND SCIATICA
It’s Time to Say “No More!” To Back Pain and Sciatica Do you find yourself waking up with nagging or excruciating pain in your back? While back pain and sciatica are similar, they still have their differences and are often confused with one another. Back pain is found specifically in the upper, middle, or lower back. Sciatica radiates pain down the buttock, thigh, and even into the legs. According to the American Physical Therapy Association, back pain is the most commonly reported pain across the nation, and one out of every four Americans has experienced back pain in the past three months. If you are suffering from back pain or sciatica, don’t rely on medicines to help you mask the pain! At Ezephysical Therapy, our physical therapists will get to the root of the problem and provide long-lasting pain relief. In many cases, our treatments are even able to eliminate the need for harmful painkilling drugs, such as opioids, or an invasive surgical procedure. What’s the difference between back pain and sciatica? Back pain “Back pain” is a very broad term that can be caused by an array of different conditions. For example, you may experience back pain due to poor posture, a motor vehicle accident, or an injury sustained while lifting something heavy. Back pain can be described as acute, meaning it is short-term, or chronic, meaning it is long-term (typically lasting for three months or longer). Sciatica Sciatica is a specific type of back pain that is easy to diagnose, although it is reported as being highly uncomfortable. People with sciatica experience pain along the sciatic nerve, which is the largest nerve in your body. The sciatic nerve begins at your lower back and then splits at the base of your spine to extend further down to your buttocks, legs, and finally ends at the bottom of each foot. The sciatic nerve can become compressed or irritated, which causes a “shooting,” “stinging,” or “burning” sensation in your lower back, buttocks, legs, or feet. Why are you experiencing back pain and/or sciatica? The technical term for sciatica is “lumbar radiculopathy.” People who develop this condition are generally between the ages of 30 and 50. Most commonly, we find that people lose their flexibility in the hips and pelvis, which causes the gluteus and hip muscles to become tightened. This in turn alters the mechanics of the spine and compresses the sciatic nerve as it travels through these tissues. Many different types of injuries can cause the development of sciatica, including arthritis, bone spurs, or any other injury that impacts the sciatic nerve. General back pain typically develops as the result of an injury. This can be due to repetitive straining motions, such as leaning down multiple times throughout the day to pick up a toddler, or a more serious, sudden trauma, such as a motor vehicle accident. Back pain may appear and disappear; however, it is always important to treat it! If not, it can lead to poor joint movement, core weakness, and poor muscle coordination, which can all lead to unwanted injuries in the future. Degenerative disc disease is a common condition as we age, which can result in back pain. Those with this condition typically report dull, aching pains in their lower back, and have difficulty with prolonged standing or walking. There are dozens of other reasons you might be experiencing these kinds of pain, and the best way to find out for sure what the source of your problem is to visit a physical therapist. While there’s no denying these conditions are very painful and annoying to deal with, both back pain and sciatica are both completely treatable through physical therapy. Our physical therapists will create a specific treatment plan for you, which will depend on how you developed the back pain, in addition to its exact location and your past medical history. The early stages of your physical therapy treatment will focus on quick pain relief. Afterward, our physical therapist will expand your treatment to include strengthening your core muscle group with specific therapeutic exercises and stretches. This helps improve your strength and range of motion to prevent re-injury of your spine. Our physical therapist will also provide you with ergonomic techniques for taking care of your spine during daily activities, such as sitting at a desk or driving. Are you experiencing symptoms of back pain or sciatica? If you are, you can find relief at EZEPhysical Therapy. Give us a call TODAY and request an appointment, so you can begin kicking back pain to the curb! You are not your pain. Our physical therapists are ready and willing to help you get on the way to recovery!
DIZZINESS AND VERTIGO
Feeling off balance and dizzy lately? We’ve all felt dizzy before, as though we can’t concentrate, can’t see straight, and can’t stay upright without swaying or falling over. Most often this feeling occurs when we get up too quickly. It can be disorienting, but it usually goes away after a few seconds. Dizziness and vertigo will impair your everyday life, restricting your ability to perform even the simplest tasks, if you let them. Fortunately, no matter what might be the cause of the imbalance, vestibular physical therapy can provide relief for dizziness and vertigo. What causes dizziness? Any of the many causes that may contribute to dizziness include lack of sleep, inadequate diet, over-exercise or physical illness, such as head cold or flu. Dizziness can also result from anything as basic as standing up too quickly after a prolonged period of rest. Some of the following signs of dizziness may include: loss of balance, feeling bleak or faint, vision temporarily affected, light-headedness or heavy-headedness. The best way to know the source of your dizziness is to visit a doctor. There may be another underlying factor you don’t know about. You may also look out for these other specific symptoms as well in regard to dizziness: sweating, abnormal eye movements, arm and leg weakness, difficulty with vision and speaking, unable to concentrate or stay alert, nausea and vomiting, double vision. What causes vertigo? Vertigo is most commonly caused by a disequilibrium in the inner ear, also known as the “vestibular system.” Your vestibular system helps you maintain equilibrium and center of gravity by sending signals about your movement to your brain. If this is compromised, the required signals will be blocked from your brain, and your movement will be affected. Many who experience vertigo can feel as though the world is spinning around them, that they can’t focus their vision for extended periods, or that they can’t stand/move properly without feeling like they’re going to fall over. Dizziness and Vertigo can produce the illusion of being unsteady, “lightheaded”, imbalance, some report feeling as if they are “rocking” or “spinning,” even when they are sitting still. This can be very frightening and stressful to deal with because it interferes with a person’s routine and lifestyle. Meniere’s disease: This happens as the fluid builds up in your ear (s). This normally involves “ringing” in the ear and unexpected waves of extreme dizziness that can last for hours. You can also experience temporary hearing loss. Vestibular neuritis: This is an inner-ear infection that can cause vertigo. Migraines: Migraines may have an effect on the vestibular system, resulting in vertigo episodes that may be associated with a reaction to light or sound. Vision can also be affected. Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV): This is the most common source of vertigo. It happens when tiny calcium crystals in your ears break apart and travel around to various areas of the ear where they are not supposed to be. This can cause sudden spinning (vertigo) and inner-ear discomfort. EZEPhysical Therapy is very effective in diagnosing and treating both dizziness and vertigo for our patients. Our innovative procedures and diagnostic techniques have gained us a reputation as one of the most effective physical therapy practices around Chase city and South Boston, VA in the treatment of dizziness and vertigo. Vestibular therapy requires therapies such as Epley, Log Roll and Cawthorne head exercises. The Epley Maneuver helps the canalith to be repositioned to transfer damaged calcium crystals in patients with BPPV. Cawthorne head exercises concentrate on decreasing nerve sensitivity and reducing vertiginous effects. Your therapist will assess your condition and create a customized treatment plan that will address your concerns and get you back to feeling steady on your feet. Are you ready to get back on your feet today? If you have any of these conditions, please contact one of our clinics to make an appointment today. We’re going to help you get back on your feet as soon as possible.
JAW PAIN
Do you have jaw pain? Do you find it difficult to open your mouth to eat or yawn? When you open or close your mouth, do you hear a popping sound? If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, you might be suffering from TMJ dysfunction. The good news is that with physical therapy, your jaw pain can be eliminated! The temporomandibular joint is the joint that connects your jawbone to your skull. TMJ dysfunction is a condition that causes pain and stiffness in the jaw joint and the muscles that surround it. TMJ pain is commonly caused by teeth misalignment, gum chewing, arthritis, teeth grinding, or jaw injury. TMJ disorder symptoms include: earaches, jaw pain, pain with chewing, jaw popping, headaches, sore jaw muscles, lock jaw, pain in the temples. How can I tell if I have TMJ dysfunction? TMJ dysfunction is typically diagnosed by a doctor or dentist. Our physical therapists, however, can examine your medical history and perform tests to determine whether TMJ dysfunction is causing your pain. Our physical therapist will assess your jaw mobility and work to relieve any neck and head muscle tension. As a result of our treatments, you will regain normal function. Therapy will also aid in the proper interaction of your jaw muscles and joints. Our physical therapist will then create a personalized care plan for you based on your needs and symptoms. Your treatment plan may include jaw exercises, soft tissue massage, joint mobilization, myofascial methods, dry needling, electrical stimulation, and ultrasound. Are you experiencing any of these symptoms? Ready to find relief from TMJ dysfunction? Contact EzePhysical Therapy in Chase City or South Boston, VA today to schedule an appointment with one of our skilled physical therapists.
HIP AND KNEE PAIN
Don’t Let Hip and Knee Pain Slow You Down! Do you sometimes worry that your knees are going to “give out” from under you while you’re standing up? Do you dread lying down at night or getting up in the morning because of pain in your hips? Know that you aren’t alone — hip and knee pain are very common conditions! Hip joint pain and knee pain can seriously interfere with your life, especially if you are dealing with both simultaneously. It can feel like there’s no answer to your pain besides over-the-counter medications. Physical therapy can help get to the root of your problem, without the need for harmful drugs or surgery. Why are knee and hip pain connected? Oftentimes when we are in pain and go to the doctors to find out what the problem is, we’re shocked to hear that the area we’re experiencing pain is actually not the true cause for concern. That’s because all of our body parts are connected and work together to keep us going. Many times, if your knee is hurting you, your hip is too, and vice versa! Pain felt in the hips and/or knees may originate in the joints themselves, but it may also be a result of an underlying condition in another part of the body. Your hip is a ball-and-socket joint that works to support the weight of your upper body, relying on multiple muscles and tissues to keep it mobile and stable so it can function properly. Your knee is a hinge joint, confined to forward-and-backward motions. Individually, your knees support more weight than the hips, 6 times your body weight when doing a squat. Proper movement of both your hips and knees allows complicated motions giving you the ability to stand, walk, run, and dance without falling over. The hips and knees are part of the same kinetic chain, meaning they make up a combination of weight-bearing joints that must function together in harmony in order for the body to function properly. Therefore, a problem with your knee joint may cause issues to happen with your hips, and vice versa. If one part of the kinetic chain is out of balance, stress and deterioration may be placed on another. It’s all connected! Why am I experiencing hip and knee pain? There are tons of reasons why hip and knee pain can occur. •Hip and knee pain can happen as a result of an issue referred from a pinched sciatic nerve, as the nerve travels through both areas. •Imbalances in your stance or gait may cause abnormal stresses. •premature wear-and-tear in your hips and knees, resulting in painful symptoms or arthritis. •Overuse injuries such as tendinitis and chronic muscle strain are common in both the hips and knees because both joints are constantly in use. •Both joints are also both subject to acute injuries, such as sprains, strains, and dislocation. •Cartilage injuries known as labral tears are specific to hip pain • Inflammation of the bursa sacs known as bursitis is a condition that can affect both joints. •Painful injuries that cause instability in the hips can also affect the knees. •Tight hip flexor muscles and weak gluteus medius muscles can cause the hip to rotate inward without you realizing it. This can cause painful problems such as iliotibial band friction syndrome or patellofemoral stress syndrome, as stress is put on the knee or kneecap. Although all of these reasons are plausible, the best way to know the true reason behind your hip or knee pain is to see a licensed physical therapist for a thorough evaluation of your condition. Physical therapy treatments at EZEPhysical Therapy can help to decrease (and in some cases, even eliminate) your hip and knee pain. This can end up keeping you from undergoing expensive, painful surgery! At your first appointment, one of our physical therapists will examine your hip and/or knee for signs of misalignment or structural damage, in addition to examining your stance, posture, gait, and range of motion. Next, after your physical exam is complete, our physical therapists will prescribe a physical therapy treatment plan for you, aimed at relieving unnatural stresses and strains. They will also focus on improving your overall joint function so you can get back to living life comfortably. You will be given targeted exercises designed for relieving joint pain and stabilizing the weak hip and/or knee tissues. The exercises may vary depending on your condition; for example, research has demonstrated that those suffering from pain in their kneecaps tend to respond better to exercises that focus on strengthening both the hips and knees, rather than just focusing on the knees alone. You may also be given core strengthening exercises that can also improve your back muscle groups, lower abdominal muscle groups, or pelvic muscles. Core exercises are aimed at straightening your posture and equalizing the weight load on both sides of your body. As our physical therapists see fit, there may be additional specialized treatments added to your recovery plan, such as mobilizations to improve joint movement or other soft tissue treatments that relieve pain and promote the healing of damaged hip and/or knee tissues. Say “NO!” to hip and knee pain! It is time to take a stand against your hip and knee pain – get started on the path toward long-lasting pain relief today! Your hips and knees will be glad you did. Contact EZEPhysical Therapy today to request an appointment to see one of our physical therapists to get back to living a healthy, active lifestyle once more. You’re in good hands here!
SHOULDER PAIN
Nagging Shoulder Pain Holding You Back? Don’t let shoulder pain ruin your day — physical therapy can help We use our shoulders for almost every movement we make, so if they’re bothering us, it’s a big deal! There are numerous reasons why someone may experience shoulder pain, and the severity can range from the temporary discomfort of a pulled muscle to the agonizing bone-on-bone friction of arthritis. Sometimes you just can’t get through a day without feeling a dull aching pain in your shoulder and neck. It can show up as a result of an injury, making you feel as if your shoulder is immobile. Shoulder pain can take many forms – it can rear its ugly head when you’re reaching toward the top shelf to put dishes away or when you’re struggling to find a comfortable position to sleep in. Whatever may be the cause of your shoulder pain, Ezephysical Therapy is dedicated to offering you natural pain management modalities. Request an appointment at our clinic in Chase City, and South Boston, VA today to learn more about our various treatment methods for shoulder pain. Common reasons for shoulder pain Some of the most common causes of shoulder pain include: Tendinitis Tendinitis occurs when the shoulder joint is excessively overused typically due to the physical demands of a person’s job, overhead activity, or sport. Another factor for tendinitis is also poor posture because this alters the normal forces on the tendons, and can set you up for tendon injury. This causes the tendons to undergo ongoing inflammation, resulting in swelling and painful impingement when raising your arm. Frozen shoulder Frozen shoulder results in a painful loss of motion in the shoulder with a tightening of the shoulder joint that severely limits motion. It is also known as “adhesive capsulitis.” This condition can occur if your arm has been in a cast or sling for a while, or if you have been bedridden for an extended period of time. Some ethnicities are more predisposed, and women from 40-60 years of age tend to have more instances of this condition than men. Impingement Impingement typically occurs because of abnormal movement and tracking of the humeral head as you lift your arm overhead. Pain typically occurs when lifting your arm at or above 90 degrees. Arthritis The two main forms of arthritis that affect the shoulder are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Both of these result in loss of motion, weakness to the shoulder muscles, and difficulty performing normal, daily tasks. Rheumatoid arthritis occurs when the immune system decides to attack the membranes surrounding the shoulder joint, resulting in pain and inflammation.Rotator cuff tear Osteoarthritis occurs when the cartilage in the shoulder joint experiences significant “wear and tear,” typically due to age or excessive overuse. Surgery vs physical therapy Those who experience rotator cuff injuries or “torn shoulders” generally report a dull ache deep in their shoulder, arm weakness, difficulty reaching behind their backs, and disturbed sleep due to pain. Depending on the severity and situation, sometimes surgery is needed, but often the correct physical therapy treatments can help reduce pain and restore strength to the rotator cuff to compensate for the partial tear. If surgery is needed, physical therapy is an integral part of the rehabilitation to a full recovery. According to the American Physical Therapy Association, “A recent study from Finland asserts that when it comes to the treatment of nontraumatic rotator cuff tears, physical therapy alone produces results equal to those produced by arthroscopic surgery and open surgical repair.” At Ezephysical Therapy, our natural and non-invasive methods can help relieve your shoulder pain and heal your rotator cuff injury. Why are our shoulders so important? The shoulder is a “ball-and-socket” joint, meaning the head of the upper arm bone, or “humerus,” fits perfectly in the corresponding space within the shoulder blade or “scapula.” The ends of the bone are protected by a thick layer of cartilage, protecting the bones from rubbing together. Fluid-filled sacs called “bursae” also protect the tendons from rubbing against the bones. Tendons attach the bones in the shoulder to a set of bones, known as the rotator cuff. Your shoulders are capable of accomplishing tons of physical feats. The shoulders have the greatest range of all the joints in your body! However, with its complexities also comes the possibilities of pain and discomfort. The type of pain you feel in your shoulder can vary, depending on what is causing it. Pain from impingement, for example, typically occurs as you raise your arm up, and begins at a certain point in the range of motion. Pain resulting from a degenerated shoulder may create persistent aches every time you move your arm in certain directions. Acute injuries can result in sudden and intense pains that make it impossible for you to move your shoulder at all.If something goes wrong with the intricacies that make up the mechanical interplay of the shoulder, pain can be the unfortunate result. What is physical therapy treatment for shoulder pain like? Physical therapy is a natural, easy, and comfortable way to find relief for shoulder pain, without the need for harmful drugs or invasive surgery. Our Chase City, and South Boston, VA physical therapists have treated a number of conditions resulting in shoulder pain, with patients finding improvement and relief after just a few short sessions. Physical therapists are movement experts who are trained to pinpoint the cause of your pain through a variety of diagnostic tests and methods. During your evaluation, we will examine your range of motion, strength, coordination, medical history, joint mobility, and mechanics of your joint motion. After your physical therapist has established the cause of your shoulder pain, they can create a specialized combination of physical therapy methods to manage and relieve your pain. Your treatment plan may involve gentle manual therapy, which helps to restore normal joint movement, ease soft tissue restrictions, and promote circulation. It could also include specific therapeutic exercises to restore strength and the correct sequence of muscle activation around the shoulder joint. Another benefit of physical therapy is that you’ll learn new ways to move your body to enhance your strength and to prevent the recurrence of future shoulder problems. Say goodbye to shoulder pain once and for all Shoulder pain may be controlling your life, but it doesn’t have to! Our Chase City, and South Boston, VA physical therapy practice will get you the help you need to start doing the things you love once again without pain. Contact Ezephysical Therapy today to request your appointment and get started on your path toward pain relief.
FOOT AND ANKLE PAIN
Kicking Foot and Ankle Pain For Good! Get Your Feet Back Under You With The Help of Physical Therapy Most of us spend a good amount of time using our feet every day. Obviously, we have to stand up, walk, and run, right? If you are suffering from foot and ankle pain, your quality of life can be greatly impacted. Foot and ankle pain can stem from a variety of different causes, but there is good news ahead! Ezephysical Therapy can help get to the source of your pain, and get you back up on your feet in no time. Dealing with pain in your feet or ankles can cause dread and agony when taking the stairs, walking a block to your office, or even driving your car. Physical therapy has been proven to help with the rehabilitation of injured extremities, in addition to providing relief for both acute and chronic pain. Call our clinic today to speak with one of our licensed and skilled Chase City, and South Boston, VA physical therapists to learn more about how our services can benefit you! Common causes of foot and ankle pain The feet and ankles are complex structures. There are tons of reasons you might be experiencing pain in them. Foot and ankle pain can occur suddenly due to an acute injury, or it can develop over time in relation to a chronic, underlying condition. According to the Mayo Clinic, there are several common causes of foot pain and ankle pain, including, but not limited to the following: Arthritis Arthritis is a very common inflammatory condition that affects the joints and results in pain. The most common types include osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Both types of arthritis can greatly impact the foot and ankle joints. Arthritis can also affect anyone at any age. Fallen arches Your foot contains several tendons that work together to form your arch. When the tendons pull together properly, your foot will form a proper arch. However, when the tendons do not pull together properly, your foot will form a very small arch, or no arch at all. This is referred to as “fallen arch” or “flat foot” and can cause pain or discomfort with time. Tendinitis Tendinitis occurs from excessive overuse of the tendons, causing them to become inflamed for a long time. Tendinitis can pose challenges to even the simplest of activities, such as reaching to grab a glass from the top shelf of the cabinet or bending down to pick up a dropped item. To make it worse, tendinitis can worsen over time, becoming chronic and incredibly painful. Strains and sprains Sprains and strains happen often, and oftentimes, they get confused with each other! A sprain occurs when a ligament is stretched too far or torn, while a strain occurs when a muscle or tendon is stretched too far. Both of these injuries should be checked out by a medical professional to ensure no lasting damage will occur. Tarsal tunnel syndrome Tarsal tunnel syndrome occurs when the tarsal tunnel (the nerve that runs from the ankle to the foot) becomes pinched and painfully inflamed. Symptoms include sharp, shooting pains, feelings of “pins and needles” and burning sensations in the feet. Plantar fasciitis Plantar fasciitis happens when the connective tissue on the bottom of the feet becomes inflamed. This can occur from aggravated overuse, such as constant standing, improper posture, or footwear that lacks proper arch support. Fractures A fracture occurs from excessive force or trauma to the bone, causing it to crack or break entirely. A fracture to the foot or ankle could result in weeks of downtime to ensure proper healing. Bursitis Bursitis occurs when the tendons rub against the “bursae” or anti-friction sacs, causing them to become irritated and uncomfortable. This condition can also occur in a person’s elbow, shoulder, and hip, although the foot and heel are most commonly affected. Why foot and ankle pain is a concern Your feet and your ankles are complex mechanical structures that must work together in harmony in order to function the way they should. The foot contains approximately two dozen bones, 30 joints, and over 100 muscles, tendons, and ligaments. Because of all the complicated structures that make up your feet and ankles, pain in those areas is a very common affliction. There are several things that can happen to you to cause foot and ankle pain. An injury to your foot or ankle can result in pain so severe that you avoid putting your weight down. This generally leaves you with only two options, both of which are pretty bad: hopping around, risking injury to your other foot, or worse, being stuck in a chair, unable to go anywhere, and take care of yourself or others. Even mild pain can cause physical limitations in your daily life! How can physical therapy help with foot and ankle pain? If you or a loved one are suffering from foot and ankle pain, there is relief to be found here at Ezephysical Therapy! Rest assured we’ll have you back on your feet in no time at all. During your first appointment, our Chase City, and South Boston, VA physical therapists will complete a thorough evaluation to confirm what is causing your pain, and then they will create a personalized treatment plan for your condition. Most treatment plans include a combination of specialized hands-on manual therapy techniques, exercises, and stretching, in order to restore joint mobility, improve balance, and strengthen the foot and ankle muscles. It might also include exercises on a balance board, as well as other specialized services. Rest assured that we will do all we can to ease your pain quickly and boost your circulation. We will also re-evaluate as time goes on and recommend lifestyle changes or orthotic footwear to prevent more re-injury or problems in the future. Your treatment at Ezephysical Therapy can begin today Don’t let foot and ankle pain take over your life. You deserve to walk and run without wincing in pain, and hopping around on one leg won’t make life any easier for you. Our Chase City, and South Boston, VA physical therapy practice will help you dictate your own mobility, comfort, and overall function, free from the limitations of pain. Contact Ezephysical Therapy today to request your appointment. We’ll help you get back on your feet in no time!
ELBOW WRIST AND HAND PAIN
Are You Experiencing Pain In Your Hand, Wrist, or Elbow? Get Upper Extremity Pain Relief With Physical Therapy Take a moment and think about your typical morning: you get out of bed, brush your teeth, shower, get dressed, make breakfast, and begin your commute to work. At this point, how many times do you think you’ve already used your elbows, wrists, and hands? Hundreds of times! Now, if you are doing all this and experiencing pain, it can make everyday mundane activities become really grueling tasks. You might even find it difficult to navigate your own home independently. You use your elbows, wrists, and hands constantly throughout the day – but nothing will make you realize just how much you use them like feeling the aches and pains within them. At EzePhysical Therapy The good news is that fortunately, you can find relief or even experience a full recovery by working with a licensed physical therapist in Chase City and South Boston, VA. What are you waiting for? Call our clinic today and get the help you’ve been needing. Common causes of hand, elbow, and wrist, and pain Because our bodies are so complex, there are many reasons you might be experiencing upper extremity pain. Listed below are a few of the most common conditions that may be reason for the pain you are feeling: Sprains/Strains Strains refer to muscle or tendon injuries, whereas sprains refer more to the ligaments, which connect bones to one another. Sprains and strains typically occur from rapid overstretching of the ligaments or tendons, such as a fall on an outstretched arm, or catching something heavy. It may take some time for you to realize you’ve even sustained one of these injuries, as the pain typically takes a day or two to show itself. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms caused by the conditions above, or if you have persistent pain that won’t seem to go away, don’t depend on harmful medications to combat your symptoms. Contact our office in Chase City and South Boston, VA as soon as possible for an appointment. Elbow Bursitis At the end of the elbow is a fluid-filled sac called the “bursa” that serves as a cushion to the elbow bone, or “ulna.” When that bursa is compressed due to an injury or repetitive motion, it can lead to pain and swelling. Because of this, it is common to see this condition in athletes and students. Golfer’s Elbow/Tennis Elbow Tennis elbow refers to pain on the lateral or outside aspect of the elbow, whereas golfer’s elbow refers to pain on the medial or inside aspect of the elbow. Both of these injuries are a result of repetitive use injuries and can be attributed to a variety of different tasks, not just the sports they are named after. Seeing a physical therapist for these conditions is recommended, because therapy restores the underlying joint and soft tissue limitations that are causing strain to the tendons, and reduces the inflammation quite rapidly. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) Carpal tunnel is a condition you may have heard thrown around in conversation, maybe from someone who uses their hands and wrists a lot for their jobs. Carpal tunnel syndrome impacts approximately 5% of all Americans, according to the American Physical Therapy Association. The main job of the carpal tunnel is to protect the median nerve on the inside of your wrist, in addition to the tendons you use to bend the fingers. However, it is possible for this tunnel to become constricted, and when it does, nerve compression can result, leading to a variety of symptoms, such as numbness and tingling to the thumb, 1st, and 2nd fingers. In addition pain to the wrist, hand as well as swelling to the hand and fingers is even possible. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) can be caused by an injury or by repetitive job-related use, such as assembly-line work, keyboard-heavy work, or jobs that require someone to operate heavy machinery. Cubital Tunnel Syndrome Cubital tunnel syndrome is a common form of nerve compression damage that can lead to elbow, wrist, and hand pain. This condition is different from carpal tunnel syndrome, and occurs when pressure is put on the cubital tunnel and surrounding nerves. It is caused by repetitive pressure on the ulnar nerve, which is located inside of the elbow and is known as your “funny bone.” It can cause pain, numbness, and tingling, especially to the ring and pinky fingers. Arthritis Arthritis is a very common condition that people of all ages can suffer from. There are many different forms of arthritis, but it is typically caused by repetitive motions or an injury that impacts the cartilage in the joints of the elbow, wrist, or hand. According to the Arthritis Foundation, arthritis is the most common form of disability in the United States. Physical therapy helps to improve joint motion, reduce inflammation, and strengthen the surrounding supportive muscles. Common symptoms of elbow, hand, and wrist pain Some people are better at handling pain than others; everyone deals with pain symptoms differently when it comes to upper extremity pain. Short-term, acute pain in the elbow, wrist, or hand typically results from an injury, but long-term chronic pain may indicate illness or other underlying factors. You may consider your pain level to be between mild and severe, and it may also be intermittent, meaning it comes and goes at different points throughout the day. Regardless of your pain level, don’t expect it to disappear on its own. In a majority of cases, the best possible outcome for your pain involves a medical professional getting involved and assessing the situation. Other symptoms accompanying the pain may include numbness or tingling in the extremities, especially in the fingers, which can make it difficult for you to perform daily activities in a normal fashion, or create issues for you at work depending on the seriousness of your condition. How can physical therapy help alleviate elbow, wrist, and hand pain? In many cases, physical therapy treatments can alleviate, or even help you eliminate the need for expensive, invasive surgical procedures and harmful painkillers. Physical therapists are experts in movement and joint disorders, and can not only treat your symptoms but find the root cause of your pain as well! Our physical therapists create a personalized treatment plan unique to the specific needs of your condition. The advanced treatment options we provide here at Ezephysical Therapy can help relieve your pain, restore your range of motion, and get you back to living your normal life. Whatever the cause of your elbow, wrist, or hand pain may be, physical therapy can help you. Physical therapy may include any combination of specialized treatments, such as manual therapy, pain, and inflammation-reducing modalities, and specific therapeutic exercises to restore strength and pain-free motion. Schedule your appointment with our clinic today It’s time to make a change. If your quality of life has been negatively affected due to hand, elbow, or wrist pain, contact our office today for an appointment and to meet with one of our dedicated team members. We are skilled, attentive, and ready to get you back to living the healthy and physically active life you deserve!
BALANCE AND GAIT DISORDERS
Feeling Unsteady? Find Your Feet Again With Physical Therapy Physical therapy can put you back on track again We’ve all been dizzy before. It’s a very unsettling feeling, to say in the least. However, for some people, feeling dizzy and unbalanced happens consistently. Do you find yourself reaching out for walls, railings, or other objects to balance yourself? Is your balance simply not quite what it used to be? If so, you might have a balance or gait issue that needs attention. Underlying musculoskeletal and neurological disorders can cause or aggravate a balance or gait problem. Fortunately, physical therapy in Chase City, and South Boston, VA can help you to regain and correct your balance. There are many reasons why this kind of condition may occur, and it can cause both physical and mental limitations in your daily life. At Ezephysical Therapy, we can manage your symptoms and in many cases, we can help relieve your condition altogether. To find out more about how our balance and gait disorders services can help improve your quality of life, call us at (434) 533-3367 or click here to request an appointment at our Chase City, and South Boston, VA physical therapy office today. The differences between gait and balance disorders Balance and gait disorders, while similar, do have many differences. A physical therapist at Ezephysical Therapy will be able to diagnose your specific condition after a thorough evaluation, however, here is some information on gait disorders versus balance disorders. Gait disorders According to Move Forward Physical Therapy, gait disorders account for 17 percent of senior falls. Gait disorders can cause abnormal movements in the way you walk and run, and these can become exaggerated with age. They can also be caused by stroke, inner ear problems, foot conditions, or even something as simple as ill-fitting shoes. Balance disorders With balance disorders, people report feeling as if they are about to fall, staggering when attempting to walk, as well as a sensation of floating. Blurred vision and feelings of disorientation are also common. Balance disorders are both physical and mental, as your brain may think you are moving, even when you are not. Changes to your joint strength, mobility, and ability to sense where your joints are in space (proprioception), all have physical consequences on your balance. How physical therapy combats the effects of gait and balance disorders Physical therapy is the best option for balance and gait disorders. Our Chase City, and South Boston, VA physical therapists can provide you with the best techniques for improving your balance and ability to walk. It’s important to get help if you are having trouble remaining steady, as you want to prevent falling and injuring yourself! Balance and gait disorders belong to a family of functional problems that interfere with your positional awareness, your normal means of walking or running, and your ability to keep yourself upright. Having to attend therapy should not be a cause for worry. Rest assured that you’re in good hands in our office!When you arrive for your initial consultation, our physical therapist will conduct a comprehensive physical evaluation to examine your balance, gait, stance, medical history, and symptoms, before creating a personalized treatment plan made for your specific needs. This treatment plan may include the following exercises and treatment methods: Gait retraining exercises Sometimes, abnormalities in gait can be corrected through “retraining” where you learn proper techniques. Runners can benefit from this kind of therapy technique especially. Strengthening exercises Your physical therapy evaluation will help determine what problem areas in your body may need strengthening. Our physical therapist will provide you with strengthening exercises that will build up your muscles, thus making it much easier for you to move around and reduce your risk of injury. Stretches Stretching will help improve your flexibility and your range of motion. This will give you more control and quicker reactions with your movements, also reducing your risk of injury. It will also keep your muscles from becoming too tight and stiff. Vestibular rehabilitation If you are suffering from a balance or gait disorder, our Chase City, and South Boston, VA physical therapists will provide you with specific exercises that will move the calcium debris to the correct parts of your ear. This physical therapy treatment works to improve your vision, nerves, muscles, and the vestibular system as a whole, in order to maintain a steady balance. What causes balance and gait disorders? Balance and gait disorders can develop from many different underlying conditions. Many balance disorders are related to issues in the vestibular system, which is responsible for your sense of position, also known as “proprioception.” Your vestibular system is a delicate collection of fluid-filled chambers and sensory nerves, located in the inner ear, and thousands of nerve receptors in the joints throughout your body. Some common vestibular conditions resulting in balance disorders include: Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) BPPV occurs when calcium debris breaks off in the inner ear, causing issues with balance. Neurological issues There are hundreds of different neurological issues that can result in balance and gait problems. They may include Parkinson’s disease, brain injury, or stroke. Other ailments Even if your brain and nervous system are working in harmony with one another, a sudden injury, disease, accident, or other ailment causing muscle weakness can interfere with your balance and make it difficult to keep yourself upright. Let us help you get back on your feet Balance and gait issues don’t have to mark the end to life as you know it. Physical therapy can help! We’re here to help you get your footing back under you. Call our clinic today and request an appointment at Ezephysical Therapy. We’ll help you find the balance you’re looking for, and teach you ways to manage your condition in the future!
PRE AND POST SURGICAL REHABILITATION
Rehab After Surgery Can Speed Up Recovery Do you want to heal as soon as possible from your surgery? Of course you do! If you have a surgical procedure coming up, while preparing for the operation, it is natural to be a little anxious and wonder how easily you will be able to recover. Luckily, understanding that you have a post-surgical physical therapy schedule can help to relieve some of the tension. To consult with one of our dedicated Chase City and South Boston, VA physical therapists, contact Ezephysical Therapy today. They’re all trained specialists who know how to properly assess a variety of pain conditions and create a recovery plan so that you can get back to your life faster! Benefits of post-surgical rehabilitation Pre-and post-surgical rehab are vital to positive outcomes after surgery. Any type of surgery can be treated as a form of trauma and can affect the body in many different ways. Even minor surgical procedures that are uncomplicated may have a significant effect on your health. Post-surgical recovery with a Chase City and South Boston, VA physical therapist is particularly necessary because of this, in order to ensure that everything goes smoothly after the surgery is completed. In addition to reducing your pain and accelerating the rate of recovery, individualized post-surgical rehab with a physical therapist will also decrease the chances of post-operative complications, including infections, bleeding, blood clots, muscle fatigue, scar tissue, diminished function, and other factors that can adversely affect your long-term health. Another critical reason for selecting post-surgical physical therapy is its ability to help you reduce or completely avoid prescription painkillers, including opioids. An opioid epidemic is currently gripping the country and impacting every socioeconomic class. According to the CDC, an estimated 115 people every day die from an opioid overdose, and upwards of 29% of people prescribed opioids will end up misusing these dangerous drugs. For this reason, the CDC advises people to choose physical therapy over prescription painkillers whenever possible. Common surgical procedures When conservative treatment options for an injury or health condition fail to provide effective relief, many physicians will recommend surgical correction. Some common conditions that may lead to surgery include, but are not limited to: Heart surgery – ablations, stent placements, cardiac pacemakers, etc Full or partial knee replacements Total hip replacements ACL, MCL, and/or meniscus repairs Rotator cuff tears The effect these operations will have on your body should not be underestimated. At least some degree of discomfort, inflammation, mobility restrictions, and swelling are caused by most surgeries. In order to help your tissues to heal, and to prevent chronic dysfunction, it is possible that you will have to learn how to do simple things all over again, like walking and getting dressed. Our Chase City and South Boston, VA physical therapists will teach you the best and safest way to perform tasks safely after your operation. Your surgeon will also outline these instructions which may include hip precautions, sternal precautions, spine precautions, not putting weight on your limb, etc. What should I expect from physical therapy? Even after your post-surgical recovery procedures are finished, our Chase City and South Boston, VA physical therapists are committed to ensuring that you enjoy a safe life. Though pain relief medications may be prescribed by your doctor, physical therapy has been proven to alleviate pain and eliminate the need for them. Your discomfort is masked by pain-killing drugs, while physical therapy resolves the problem where it starts. Specialized procedures, techniques, and modalities, such as ultrasound, joint mobilization, laser therapy, electrical stimulation, and home exercise systems are all things that a physical therapist will utilize for your treatment. To help you heal and get back to your usual everyday life, our Chase City and South Boston, VA physical therapists will build a recovery plan that will include tailored stretches and exercises. Ezephysical Therapy will help you get to your optimal levels of operation afterwards, no matter what condition or injury you might need surgery for. Physical limitations can occur in the days and weeks following a surgical procedure. Our physical therapist will instruct you on how to navigate those limits, such as how to go up and down the stairs, put on clothing, or get in and out of a vehicle. This can be achieved with the help of assistive devices, in many cases. You will be able to walk around more comfortably while still trying to regain the normal range of movement in your body by making these accommodations. In order to optimize your long-term wellbeing, prevent injury and avoid the need for more surgery in the future, part of your recovery plan will also provide education on any lifestyle and/or dietary improvements you might make. Get back to your life with post-surgical rehab! If you are planning on having a surgical operation in the near future, don’t wait to set up your post-surgical rehab plan with Ezephysical Therapy. We’ll provide you with everything you need to get back to your life as quickly and easily as possible!
SPORTS INJURIES
Get Back To The Game You Love With Effective Sports Injury Treatment! Physical Therapy can help you in recovery. It is important to stay healthy when doing your sport, whether you’re a professional athlete or a weekend “gym rat!” If you’ve sustained any kind of sport injury, Ezephysical Therapy is here to get you off the sidelines and back in the game. The most common forms of sports injury include: •Strain or “pulled muscle”: Strain happens when the muscle is extended beyond its limits by a tendon binding your muscle to the bone. Once the tendon has been overstretched, it is more likely to be stressed again. •Shin splints or Medial tibial stress syndrome: Usually, this pain is caused by tension exerted on the shinbone and the underlying connective tissues. Shin splints are painful and frequently debilitating, but by wearing proper footwear, warming up before exercise, and strengthening the muscles of the heart and leg, you can prevent them. •Sprain: When a ligament linking one bone to another is stretched beyond its limits, a sprain occurs. When it happens one time, it’s more likely to happen again. •Knee injuries: Your knee is the most complicated joint in the body, and it is also one of the areas that gets injured most often. Knee injuries can include dull aches that extend from your hip to your knee, injuries that make moving the knee painful for repeated use, or more serious injuries such as an ACL tear. •Common causes of sports injuries: One of the best things you can do for a sports injury is to treat it as soon as possible. The word “sports injury” is all-encompassing, including any kind of injury that happens during physical activity. Whether you’re lifting heavy weights at the gym or running in ill-fitting shoes, sports injuries can happen just the same as they can by throwing a bat too hard or rolling the ankle on the soccer field. Depending on how serious the injury is, your health history, and whether or not the injury needs surgical intervention, the care plan and period of recovery can vary. How will physical therapy help me get back in the game? Our physical therapists are specialists in movement. First, a therapist will conduct a series of tests and ask you questions about your medical history, pain symptoms, and fitness goals. They will also review diagnostic tests, such as X-rays, MRI, or ultrasounds. The essence of your injury, your fitness level, and your lifestyle will be taken into account when your individualized treatment plan is created based on your personal needs. In order to help get you back into the game as soon as possible, they will work on improving your range of motion and minimize the scar tissue, the plan will possibly include manual therapy, stretches to improve balance and mobility, and strengthening exercises to improve the injured area as well as its surrounding areas. All of these steps are taken to help you heal and avoid more injuries from happening in the future after your sports injury. Have you recently sustained a sports injury? Ready to return to your sport? If so, don’t hesitate to make an appointment at one of our clinics at EZE Physical Therapy. We will help you recover as quickly as possible so you can return to the sport you love faster, and you’ll decrease your risk of reinjury in the future!
NEUROLOGICAL CONDITIONS
Physical Therapy Can Help Manage Neurological Conditions If you’re dealing with Neurological Conditions, you know firsthand how it affects your life. Your movement may be affected, your quality of life may be lower, and you may not be able to work as independently as you would like. Fortunately, support is available: physical therapy. The aim of physical therapy for neurological conditions is to recover as much function as possible and help you regain as much mobility as you can so you are able to move about more freely. We hope that our patients take comfort in the fact that they will receive care from top specialists in Chase City and South Boston, VA. Physical therapists at Ezephysical Therapy are trained experts when it comes to mobility problems due to injury or nervous system disorders. Our experts will evaluate your condition and establish the best treatment plan for your needs. For more information on how our Chase City and South Boston, VA physical therapy services can benefit your condition and help you learn to manage a neurological condition, request an appointment today! What kinds of neurological conditions are three? There are a variety of neurological disorders. These kinds of conditions influence the ways in which a person is about to comfortably move. Their muscle coordination may be seriously impaired and in many cases, they may not be able to function independently. A few common neurological conditions are as follows: Stroke Stroke is a leading cause of disability in adults. Ezephysical Therapy can help relieve the effects of a stroke by working to improve balance, walking, and the use of assistive devices. Common therapies for post-stroke rehabilitation include: Constraint-induced movement therapy Motor image Partial body weight support Neurotherapy techniques (Biofeedback) Functional electrical stimulation Biofeedback is a form of neurological therapy that helps increase understanding of muscle function and how it may need to be improved. This is achieved by adding electrodes to the skin to measure muscle activity on the screen. After a stroke, our physical therapists in Chase City and South Boston, VA will help you recover your functional skills so that you can get back to life as normally as possible. Parkinson’s Disease Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological condition that affects the brain’s nerve cells. Commonly experienced symptoms of Parkinson’s disease include extreme tremors, slurred speech, and unusual, uncontrollable facial expressions. Fortunately, physical therapy can help delay the progression of Parkinson’s disease and help to alleviate symptoms. It also helps improve flexibility and strength by addressing a variety of issues that Parkinson’s disease can cause, including irregular gait, freezing, and dystonia. ALS ALS is a progressive neurological disease. It stands for Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, and normally occurs in the hands, legs, and extremities before spreading to the central part of the body. People who develop ALS normally face a challenge with walking first, as they can sometimes fall over or lose their balance. Frequent muscle cramps or weakness in the hands or legs are also common. As ALS spreads across the body, it can influence the way a person uses their extremities, speaks, swallows, and even breathes. Unfortunately, at this moment, there is no treatment for ALS. However, the aim of our recovery team is to help preserve function and independence for as long as possible. Ezephysical Therapy also focuses on the prevention of secondary complications (such as injuries associated with falling) by providing protection and adaptation information while using assistive devices. Our physical therapists may prescribe the use of supportive equipment, such as canes, walkers, wheelchairs, braces, and other aids, as the disease progresses. Multiple Sclerosis Multiple sclerosis is a neurological disorder that affects the brain and the spinal cord. Typical signs of multiple sclerosis are pressure, fatigue, and exhaustion. If it progresses, this disease may be crippling. Fortunately, physical therapy will help treat and reduce these effects if you are struggling with this illness. In addition to being presented with guidance on the proper use of assistive devices, you can work with our Ezephysical Therapy therapists on exercises to assist with balance and movement. Our Chase City and South Boston, VA physical therapist will provide you with tailored stretches to alleviate muscle spasms and to improve strength and range of motion with targeted exercises. For patients with multiple sclerosis, we want to maintain as much comfortable movement as possible. Neurotherapy and physical therapy Neuro therapy is a non-invasive type of treatment that analyzes the behavior of the brain to assess if it can be improved to help enhance function. It recognizes the areas of the brain that require improvement, and then physical therapy helps to strengthen those areas. An EEG is used with Neurotherapy to assess brain activity and create ‘brain maps.’ Physical therapists and neurological therapists work closely together in order to create the best possible treatment plan for each patient. Your strength will improve, you’ll be able to perform targeted tasks, and recover your independence much faster by engaging in physical therapy sessions following a neurological injury. Ready to get started with treatment? Are you dealing with any of these conditions, and finding it hard to maintain a sense of independence in your everyday life? Know that you don’t have to go down this path alone. If you are suffering from a neurological disorder that limits you from living the life you want to live, don’t hesitate to contact our Chase City and South Boston, VA office for physical therapy today. Our physical therapists at Ezephysical Therapy work closely with neurological specialists to offer the best possible care for you. If you make an appointment to speak with one of our dedicated physical therapists, you will find out how we can better treat your symptoms and help you achieve your physical goals.
LYMPHEDEMA
Lymphedema therapy is a combination of treatments that can help manage lymphedema symptoms. Treatments include manual lymph drainage, compression therapy, skin care, and exercise. Our occupational therapist will teach you about techniques and equipment that can help reduce lymphedema swelling. Manual lymph drainage •A gentle massage that uses light pressure to move the trapped fluid in the swollen limb toward an area with working lymph vessels. People should avoid manual lymph drainage if they have a skin infection, blood clots or active cancer in the affected limb. Compression therapy •Low-stretch bandages, sleeves, or stockings to wrap the entire limb encourages lymph fluid to flow back toward the trunk of the body. •Compression garments - Close-fitting elastic sleeves or stockings can compress the arm or leg to encourage lymph fluid drainage. These garments often require a prescription to ensure that the proper amount of compression is used. Skin care •Keeping skin healthy to prevent infection and using lotion to prevent dry skin. Exercise •Flexibility, strengthening, posture, breathing, and aerobic exercises •Gentle contraction of the muscles in the arm or leg can help move the excess fluid out of the swollen limb. Lifestyle modifications •Eating healthy foods, reducing salt, and managing stress •Getting enough sleep Ready to find relief from Lymphedema? Contact EZEPhysical Therapy in South Boston, VA today to schedule an appointment with our occupational therapist.