The Power of Breath: How Brief Daily Breathing Exercises Can Enhance Your Recovery

Taking a few moments for focused breathing can make a world of difference when it comes to managing pain, stress, and overall well-being. At our physical therapy practice, we introduce patients who are appropriate for breathwork and make it part of our treatment approach.

A recent research study highlighted the measurable benefits that consistent daily breathing exercises can have on both mood and physiology within just 4 weeks.

The Science Supports Breathwork

The study, published in Cell Reports Medicine (Reference), randomized over 100 adults into one of four groups. Each group was instructed to practice a specific 5-minute breathing exercise every day for four weeks. The four exercises were cyclic sighing, box breathing, cyclic hyperventilation with breath retention, and mindfulness meditation. Participants completed brief surveys before and after each daily breathing session to assess changes in mood. They also wore a wrist sensor device to continuously monitor heart rate, respiration rate and other physiological metrics.

What This Research Article Tells Us

After four weeks, all groups showed decreased anxiety and negative mood from before to after each daily breathing session. However, the combined breathwork groups showed greater increases in positive mood compared to the mindfulness meditation group. Out of the three breathwork exercises, cyclic sighing – which emphasizes prolonged exhales – resulted in the greatest improvements in daily mood that continued to increase over the four weeks.

The cyclic sighing group also had the largest reduction in respiratory rate compared to mindfulness meditation. This is likely due to the longer exhales actively slowing down breathing patterns. Slower breathing has been associated with decreased anxiety and sympathetic nervous system activity. Interestingly, participants with the greatest drop in respiratory rate also had the largest increases in positive mood.

Benefits of Breathwork in Recovery

How can brief daily breathwork help in recovery from injury or surgery? First, sighing and other breathing exercises promote relaxation, which decreases muscle tension, anxiety and pain perception. Taking just 5 minutes for a focused breathing session in the morning and evening allows the body to shift out of stressed “fight or flight” mode and into the parasympathetic “rest and digest” state. This enhances the effects of physical therapy treatment.

Second, breathwork gives patients an active tool to manage their stress and pain levels at home. Our physical therapists can monitor respiratory rate as an objective measure of relaxation and progress. We can also provide customized breathing protocols based on each patient’s needs and recovery goals. For example, integrating paced exhale-focused sighing breaths with movements and stretches encourages proper muscle activation patterns.

Finally, consistent daily breathing practice supports overall mind-body wellness. It requires minimal time commitment but yields compounding benefits over weeks and months. Breathwork enhances energy, sleep and emotional resilience to stress. Patients find breathing exercises highly accessible regardless of physical limitations. We’ve seen firsthand how breathwork empowers patients and gives them a sense of control over their healing journey.

Ask About How Basic Breathwork Can Be Part Of Your Physical Therapy Treatment

If you are currently in recovery from injury, dealing with chronic pain, or want to improve your general well-being, consider adding brief daily breathing exercises. Our physical therapists can get you started with a customized program. Give us a call today to discuss how breathwork can be incorporated into your treatment plan!

CONTACT ONE OF OUR TWO OFFICES IN VISALIA (559) 7332478 OR HANFORD (559) 582-1027 TODAY

Best Treatment for Middle Back Pain in Visalia – Choose Physical Therapist Directed Care for the Win

New Study Shows Spinal Manipulation Benefits for Middle Back Pain Treatment

Are you looking for permanent relief of your middle back pain?  Our expert clinicians specialize in providing middle back pain treatment in Visalia; and we’d like to share, based on the current best evidence, what the best middle back pain treatment in Visalia is. Read on for details.

The Formal Term is Thoracic Spine Pain

Middle back pain, known as thoracic spine pain, can be just as debilitating as pain in the neck or lower back. While there are many treatments for spinal pain, research on specifically targeting the thoracic spine has been limited. A new randomized controlled trial published in BioMed Research International sheds light on the benefits of spinal manipulation for middle back pain.

About this New Scientific Study (Reference)

In a recent article summarizing clinical research, the authors included 100 patients aged 18-60 with nonspecific middle back pain. They were randomly divided into two groups:

Spinal manipulation group: Received high-velocity, low-amplitude spinal manipulation to the thoracic spine, along with thoracic exercises
Exercise-only group: Received thoracic exercises only

Pain levels and quality of life were assessed at multiple time points – before and after the first session, after the 8th session, and at a 12-week follow-up.

What the Scientists Discovered in This Novel Clinical Research

– Both groups improved significantly over time in pain levels and quality of life
– The spinal manipulation group showed greater improvements in pain and quality of life compared to exercise alone after the 8-session treatment period
– At the 12-week follow-up, there was no difference between the groups
– The benefits of spinal manipulation diminished once treatment was discontinued

What This Means for Middle Back Pain Sufferers

This study demonstrates that combining spinal manipulation with exercises provides added short-term benefits for thoracic spine pain (middle back pain), compared to exercises alone.

However, the advantage of spinal manipulation was lost after stopping treatment. This indicates it likely produces temporary effects but not sustained benefits.

The Role of Our Expert Physical Therapists Here at Bacci & Glinn Physical Therapy

Our physical therapists are experts in spinal manipulation and therapeutic exercise prescription. Based on your symptoms and exam findings, they can determine if spinal manipulation is appropriate for you.

A customized exercise program is key for any spinal pain treatment plan to build strength and flexibility for long-term relief. Your physical therapist will design activities tailored to your condition and abilities.

Regular physical therapy can help you manage middle back pain, restore mobility, teach you how to handle it on your own, prevent re-injury, and improve function. Our skilled therapists stay up to date on the latest research to provide you with the most effective care.

If you’re suffering from stubborn thoracic spine pain, make an appointment at our clinic today. A thorough evaluation will help pinpoint the source of your pain so we can get you on the road to recovery.

CONTACT ONE OF OUR TWO OFFICES IN VISALIA (559) 7332478 OR HANFORD (559) 582-1027 TODAY

Effective Plantar Fasciitis Treatment in Hanford: Why Physical Therapist-Directed Care is the Key

 

Are you searching for plantar fasciitis treatment in Hanford that is long-lasting…more than the temporary relief you get from medication?

In this blog post, we will discuss the most recent clinical research for conservative and natural care for plantar fasciitis and shed light on the benefits of physical therapist-directed care.

We are Experts at Providing Effective Treatment for Plantar Heel Pain (pain on the bottom of your foot near your heel)

If you’re residing in Hanford, California, and seeking effective solutions for your plantar fasciitis, we can help. Our expert physical therapy team is here to provide you with treatment based on the current best science…plantar fasciitis treatment that can alleviate your pain and help you regain mobility. 

Understanding Plantar Fasciitis and Its Impact – What is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition characterized by inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot. 

This condition often leads to stabbing pain in the heel, which can worsen with prolonged standing, walking, or running. 

It affects a significant portion of the population, including athletes and individuals with certain risk factors such as obesity or wearing improper footwear.

The Importance of Physical Therapist-Directed Care – Personalized Assessment and Treatment are Important

Seeing one of our physical therapist at our Hanford clinic for plantar fasciitis treatment is highly recommended, based on the most up-to-date clinical research. Consider this recent publication Level 1 research summary:

Management of plantar heel pain: a best practice guide informed by a systematic review, expert clinical reasoning and patient values

 “The article is a guide of updated best practices for the evaluation and treatment of plantar heel pain (PHP), and is based on a systematic review, expert interviews, and a patient survey.

The review considered randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating any intervention for people with PHP, with trials having a sample size greater than 38 being considered for proof of efficacy. 

This study included 4351 participants from 51 eligible trials, with 9 RCTs being suitable to determine the proof of efficacy for 10 interventions.

The results showed good agreement between the systematic review findings and interviews of healthcare providers that regularly treat plantar fasciitis. The effectiveness of taping and plantar fascia stretching for reducing first-step pain was identified as an acceptable treatment in the short term. 

The study suggests combining these interventions with education and footwear advice as the primary self-management approach.

Additional Treatments May Also be Helpful

For patients who do not show optimal improvement, the research recommends adding additional treatments such as focused shockwave for first-step pain in the short-term, medium-term, and long-term, and radial shockwave for first-step pain in the short and long term. The study also found good agreement to using custom foot orthoses for general pain in the short and medium term.

In conclusion, the best practice based on this mixed-methods study suggests that the core treatment for people with PHP should include taping, stretching, and individualized education. If patients do not optimally improve, they may be offered shockwave therapy, followed by custom orthoses ​1

Evidence-Based Treatment Techniques for Plantar Fasciitis Treatment Should Be What You are Looking For!

plantar fasciitis evaluation

Our physical therapists are experts in musculoskeletal conditions and can provide a thorough assessment of your condition. They will evaluate your:

  • Foot mechanics,
  • Gait (walking patterns),
  • Strength & flexibility, and
  • Range of motion

Based on the evaluation results, we develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. By addressing the underlying causes of plantar fasciitis, physical therapists can target the root of the problem and provide effective solutions.

Your plantar fasciitis treatment plan may include some or all of the following:

  1. Manual Therapy: Skilled hands-on techniques, such as soft tissue mobilization and joint mobilization, can help reduce pain, improve tissue flexibility, and enhance overall foot function.
  2. Therapeutic Exercises: Physical therapists will guide you through a series of exercises to stretch and strengthen the plantar fascia and surrounding muscles. These exercises can promote healing, improve flexibility, and restore proper foot mechanics.
  3. Modalities: Additional treatments such as taping/strapping, ultrasound, electrical stimulation, or laser therapy may be used to complement the therapeutic plan and expedite the healing process.

The Benefits of Physical Therapist-Directed Care-Non-Invasive Approach 

Physical therapist-directed treatments prioritize non-invasive (we don’t penetrate the skin with needles or drugs), natural approaches to alleviate plantar fasciitis symptoms. By emphasizing conservative interventions, we aim to avoid unnecessary surgeries and medications, reducing the risk of complications and side effects.

Long-Term Recovery and Prevention

One of the major advantages of our physical therapist-directed care is its focus on long-term recovery and prevention. Education on proper footwear, activity modification, and self-management strategies, physical therapists empower patients to take control of their condition and prevent future flare-ups.

It’s Important to Look at More Than Just the Foot & Ankle

Our physical therapists consider the entire kinetic chain when treating plantar fasciitis. They assess factors such as posture, lower limb alignment, and core stability to identify any contributing factors that may be exacerbating your symptoms. 

By addressing these factors, physical therapists help you achieve optimal foot function and overall musculoskeletal health.

Call Us Today to Learn More & Get Started – Contact Us at (559) 582-1027

If you’re in the Hanford area and seeking effective plantar fasciitis treatment, look no further than physical therapist-directed care. By providing personalized assessment, evidence-based treatments, and a holistic approach to rehabilitation, physical therapists can help you overcome the challenges of plantar fasciitis and regain pain-free mobility. Don’t let plantar fasciitis hold you back—take the first step towards recovery by consulting a physical therapist today!

Looking for Knee Arthritis Treatment in Hanford?

 

If you are looking for knee arthritis treatment in Hanford, read on, and you’ll see that not only is physical therapy a great choice, you will learn that Bacci & Glinn Physical Therapy is one of the best providers in the Hanford area.

There are a number of options for arthritis pain treatment in your knee. Arthritis typically includes the following signs and symptoms: pain, stiffness, and decreased mobility. You have to be experiencing all of these symptoms along with a positive X-raying test to be diagnosed with knee arthritis.

Note: this article is based on the most recent clinical research for knee arthritis treatment – the NICE Guidelines. 

Knee Arthritis Can Make Daily Activities a Challenge

Patients with knee arthritis usually have significant pain when they put a large load/force on their knee joint—climbing/descending stairs, getting out of a chair or car, jogging/running all load the knee joint.

You Should Start with Conservative Care First – Bacci & Glinn PT are some of the Best Clinicians if You’re Looking for Knee Arthritis Treatment in Hanford

If you live in the Hanford area and are looking for an expert specializing in arthritis treatment, we can help. Of course, a wide range of treatments can help reduce symptoms and boost your quality of life.

In this article, we will discuss the value of visiting a physical therapist for the “first-line treatment” of knee arthritis. Let’s get into the weeds and find out what makes physical therapy beneficial.

Quick Review of the Problem

Knee arthritis is an inflammatory and degenerative joint condition that can be better understood by knowing a few key facts about the knee. Pain, edema, stiffness, and limited range of motion are typical symptoms among adults (especially seniors). Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis are two common forms of knee arthritis.

When it comes to controlling symptoms of knee arthritis and improving overall function, physical therapist-directed care plays a vital role. Bacci & Glinn Physical Therapy focuses on pain-free, strength-building methods that increase joint mobility. There are many reasons why you should choose to see one of our physical therapists first to treat knee arthritis (
and most other knee pain diagnoses as well).

Physical therapists use various methods, including manual therapy (hands-on techniques), therapeutic exercises, and modalities like deep tissue laser therapy and electrical stimulation, to alleviate pain in their patients. These techniques get to the root of your discomfort, so you don’t have to rely so heavily on pharmaceuticals.

Aquatic Therapy for Knee Arthritis Treatment in Hanford

Last month we announced that we had re-opened our aquatic facility. Aquatic therapy is an excellent treatment modality for knee arthritis. For more on this, you can click here.

What Your Knee Physical Therapy Treatment Should Focus On…

In order to recover joint mobility, range of motion, and muscular strength, our licensed & professionally trained physical therapists use individualized exercises and stretches. “Individualized is the key here.” Every patient is in a different place in the recovery process and has different goals. Providing a custom treatment program will help you get through the day with less discomfort and more ease; moreover, it will help you reach your specific goals.

It Starts with a Private and Thorough Knee Physical Therapy Evaluation

Our physical therapists evaluate your problem and provide a treatment plan that is unique to you based on their findings. Your pain tolerance, daily routine, and desired outcomes go into the customized treatment plan they develop for you.

Care Coordination – Our Physical Therapists are on the Same Page as Your Medical Doctor

Our physical therapists help communicate & coordinate with other medical staff to provide patients with knee arthritis with the best possible treatment. To achieve the best possible results, we often work with your primary care doctor, rheumatologists, and orthopedic experts to create a multidisciplinary treatment plan.

If You Are Looking for Knee Arthritis Treatment in Hanford, Don’t Wait!

Seeking one of our licensed physical therapist’s assistance at the first sign of knee arthritis symptoms is essential. We can slow or even stop the joint deterioration disease process, alleviate discomfort, and improve your long-term outcomes with prompt physical therapist-directed attention. If you’ve been experiencing knee pain or stiffness, don’t wait to consult your medical doctor; call one of our doctors of physical therapy in Hanford.

Why You Should Act Sooner than Later

The benefits of receiving physical therapy for knee arthritis include less pain, increased range of motion, and better overall function. By collaborating with a physical therapist, you’ll have access to tailored treatment tailored specifically to your needs. Do something about your knee arthritis now and improve your quality of life by eliminating painful symptoms. Talk to a physical therapist.

Bacci & Glinn Physical Therapy is the first line of treatment for knee arthritis patients here in Hanford. We can help you determine what works best for you. The first step toward better knee health is taking charge and making an appointment with one of our physical therapists.

Call Us Today at (559) 582-1027 to Learn More About How We Can Help

Grand Re-Opening of Aquatic Therapy in Hanford

 

Are you searching Google for a unique and effective treatment to help alleviate pain and improve your mobility? Look no further! Bacci & Glinn’s Aquatic Therapy in here in Hanford is the perfect solution for those seeking a gentle yet powerful treatment to regain their strength and well-being.

Aquatic therapy has been proven to be effective for a number of conditions.

How Can Bacci & Glinn Physical Therapy Help Me with Aquatic Rehab?

  • Aquatic therapy, also known as water therapy or hydrotherapy, is a form of physical therapy conducted in a warm, therapeutic pool.
  • It utilizes the properties of water, such as buoyancy, resistance, and hydrostatic pressure, to provide a low-impact and supportive environment for rehabilitation and exercise.

The Benefits of Aquatic Therapy in Our Hanford Physical Therapy Office

  • Reduced pain and inflammation: The hydrostatic pressure of water comforts joints and muscles and relieves pain and inflammation.
  • Increased flexibility and mobility: Water buoyancy properties allow patients to move through a greater range of motion, improving flexibility and mobility.
  • Enhanced strength and endurance: Aquatic exercises help reactivate your muscles and improve endurance without putting excessive strain on the joints.
  • Improved balance and coordination: The support and resistance provided by water improve overall balance and coordination. Furthermore, patients feel safer in water since the fear of falling is eliminated.
  • Faster recovery and reduced risk of injury: Aquatic therapy helps patients get moving faster, reduces setbacks sometimes experienced with land therapy, and reduces the chances of future injuries.

Who Can Benefit from Physical Therapist Guided Pool Therapy?

Our aquatic therapy in Hanford is suitable for people of all ages and fitness levels. It is especially beneficial for those with the following:

  • Osteoarthritis
  • Fibromyalgia/Chronic pain
  • Joint replacement surgery
  • Neurological disorders
  • Pre- and postnatal care
  • Spinal injuries or conditions
  • Sports injuries

Why Choose Our Pool Therapy Services in Hanford?

  • State-of-the-art facilities: Our therapy center boasts a modern and well-equipped therapeutic pool, ensuring a comfortable and safe patient experience.
  • Expert clinicians: Our team of skilled physical therapists is dedicated to providing personalized treatment plans tailored to your specific needs and goals.
  • Flexible scheduling: We offer convenient appointment times to fit your busy schedule.
  • Insurance coverage: Our services are covered by most insurance plans, making it easier on your pocketbook.

If You are Looking for Aquatic Therapy in Hanford, Call Us Today

Don’t let pain or limited mobility hold you back any longer. Instead, dive into healing and wellness with expert aquatic therapy services. Experience the benefits for yourself and start your journey towards a healthier, happier life.

Call us now at (559) 582-1027 for More Information

You can visit our contact page for additional details by clicking here.

References:

  1. Effectiveness of aquatic therapy for rehabilitation of musculoskeletal disorders: a systematic review. JBI Database System Rev Implement Rep. 2017 Oct;15(10):2570-2598.
    This systematic review concluded that aquatic therapy is an effective intervention for improving pain, range of motion, and functional ability in individuals with musculoskeletal disorders
  2. Aquatic exercise improves muscle strength, flexibility, and balance in adults with osteoarthritis: a randomized controlled trial. Arch Phys Med Rehabil. 2007 May;88(5):549-56.
    This randomized controlled trial found that aquatic exercise significantly improved muscle strength, flexibility, and balance in adults with osteoarthritis, indicating that it may be an effective non-pharmacological intervention for managing the condition.
  3. Effectiveness of aquatic exercise for musculoskeletal conditions: a meta-analysis. Arch Phys Med Rehabil. 2014 Jun;95(6):1136-49.e1.
    This meta-analysis found that aquatic exercise is an effective intervention for reducing pain and improving physical function in individuals with various musculoskeletal conditions, including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and fibromyalgia.
  4. Effect of aquatic exercise on quality of life and functional capacity in knee osteoarthritis: a randomized controlled trial. Rheumatol Int. 2017 Sep;37(9):1443-1450.
    This randomized controlled trial found that aquatic exercise significantly improved quality of life and functional capacity in individuals with knee osteoarthritis, indicating that it may be a valuable non-pharmacological intervention for managing the condition.
  5. The effectiveness of aquatic physical therapy in the treatment of fibromyalgia: a systematic review with meta-analysis. Clin Rehabil. 2016 Mar;30(3):221-32.
    This systematic review with meta-analysis found that aquatic physical therapy is an effective intervention for reducing pain and improving physical function in individuals with fibromyalgia, indicating that it may be a valuable non-pharmacological intervention for managing the condition.

Prehabilitation in Visalia and Hanford

Having Surgery – You Should Strongly Consider Prehabilitation (Prehab)

Prehab, short for prehabilitation, is a type of physical therapy that focuses on preparing the body before (pre) surgery. It’s similar to regular physical therapy, but it’s done before the patient has surgery. The goal of prehab is to improve the patient’s physical condition, so recovery is easier – more on this below.

What Types of Surgery Benefit from Prehabilitation?

It’s reasonable to assume that just about anyone that is having orthopedic surgery will benefit from prehabilitation in Visalia or Hanford .

These are some common surgical procedures patients experience that should go through our program:

• Total knee replacement,
• Total hip replacement,
• Rotator cuff repairs or
• Shoulder replacement surgeries .

Doctors and rehabilitation scientists have studied prehab with the above mentioned surgical procedures and the results have been positive.

Clinical Research Suggest Prehabilitation is Helps Patients Avoid Complications, Reduce Costs, & Decrease Your Time in the Hospital

Prehab can help to reduce the risk of a number of functional problems after surgery. For example, if a patient has weak muscles or poor cardiorespiratory endurance, they may have trouble getting out of bed, trouble with personal hygiene & using the toilet, difficulty walking & getting around the home, or challenges with stairs & uneven surfaces.

More than one research study has demonstrated that participating in a prehab program, the patient is less likely to experience these complications. Reference

Equally important there is some new evidence that rehabilitation will reduce costs and number of days in the hospital. Reference

Prehab Also Help Patients Recover Faster

Prehab can also help to speed up the recovery process after surgery. By getting the body in better shape before the operation, patients are more likely to be able to move around and do daily activities sooner. This can lead to a faster return to work or other activities, and a quicker overall recovery.

Prehab Helps Reduce Pain

Another benefit of prehab is that it can help to reduce the amount of pain and discomfort after surgery. By getting the body in better shape before the operation, patients may be less likely to experience pain and soreness after the surgery.

What Does Prehabilitation Include?

Prehab will vary from one patient to the other. We customize your prehab experience based on your personal needs. That said, prehab may include some or all of the following:

• Personalized strengthening exercises so you recover your strength faster,
• Cardiorespiratory exercises and activities so improve your endurance and help with recovery after anesthesia,
• Stretching and range of motion exercises so you can recover your joint motion faster after surgery,
• Post-surgical pain advice so you know how pain works, what you should expect, ways alleviate your discomfort, and have an increased awareness of signs and symptoms that you should alert your surgeon about,
• Joint support & sleeping recommendations so you can support the joint/spine after surgery, Nutritional Advice so your body has the right nutrients for recovery.

Is Prehab Right for You – Give Us a Call

In conclusion, prehab is a type of therapy that can help you to prepare your body for surgery. It has many benefits such as reducing the risk of complications, speeding up recovery and reducing pain and discomfort.

If you are considering surgery, you should make prehab part of your preparation for a better results.

Contact us today about how you can participate in prehabilitation in Visalia or Hanford.

Our Visalia phone number is (559) 733-2478 and our Hanford phone number is (559) 582-1027

 

Must Read About Rotator Cuff Tear Treatment in Visalia

Do Steroid Injections Increase Risk For Rotator Cuff Tears In The Long Term?

If you are Googling “rotator cuff tear treatment in Visalia,”  here’s some research you need to know about.  It’s important for patients to be well informed.  New information could save you time, money, and help you avoid prolonged shoulder pain.

A Quick Rotator Cuff Anatomy Review

The rotator cuff is a crucial component of the shoulder that allows it to function. It connects the upper arm bone (humerus) to the shoulder blade (scapula) with four muscles, each of which has a tendon that attaches to different parts of the scapula. These tendons form a “cuff” around the head of the humerus, and all the muscles work together to control and stabilize the shoulder.

But when any of the tendons of the rotator cuff becomes injured or torn, the tendon becomes detached from the head of the humerus, and the injury is called a rotator cuff tear. Some rotator cuff tears occur after sudden injuries like falling on an outstretched arm or lifting a heavy object, but most develop gradually over time after the tendon gradually loses its strength. Athletes involved in overhead sports like baseball, tennis, and weightlifting, and those who are older than 40 are at a greater risk for rotator cuff tears.

Highly Recommended – Physical Therapy for Rotator Cuff Problems (We Treat This Condition in Hanford & Visalia)

Physical therapy is recommended for most patients with rotator cuff tears and treatment typically includes:

  • manual (hands-on) therapy,
  • strengthening and stretching exercises,
  • deep tissue laser therapy,
  • patient education, and
  • passive modalities like ice/heat and taping.

Nonetheless, many patients decide to have steroid injections either in addition to or instead of physical therapy because injections can provide short-term pain relief; however, some experts (these are medical doctors as well as physical therapists) are concerned that injections might have negative effects on tendon health over time.

Thankfully, There’s a Research Study About This

Therefore, a study was conducted to evaluate the effect of steroid injections on the risk for rotator cuff tears. The study’s authors collected data on patients who were diagnosed with shoulder disease and divided them into one group for those who received a steroid injection and another group for those who did not.

This search led to 1,025 patients being included, 205 of whom received a steroid injection and 820 of whom did not. The rate of rotator cuff tears was 9.8% in patients who received steroid injections versus only 1.2% in patients who did not, which indicated that steroid injections increased the risk for a rotator cuff tear by 7.44 times. The average time to a rotator cuff tear from the date of the steroid injection was 39 months.

These findings suggest that although steroid injections can effectively alleviate pain in the short-term, they appear to increase the risk for rotator cuff tears over time. Therefore, healthcare providers and patients with shoulder pain should consider these findings and carefully weigh the risks and benefits of steroid injections when determining the best course of treatment.

In addition, we encourage patients that are looking for rotator cuff tear treatment in Visalia or Hanford to contact us for a detailed initial evaluation, and you’ll receive a comprehensive treatment program for your shoulder pain.

Contact Bacci & Glinn Physical Therapy at 559-733-2478 (Visalia) or 559-582-1027 (Hanford) for more information or to schedule an appointment today.

New Research to Share from Back Pain Treatment Experts in Visalia

Positive Lifestyle Behaviors And Emotional Factors Can Improve Resilience in Patients With Low Back Pain

If you are suffering with lower back pain on the left, right, or across and down a leg, here’s something that might help with mindset…from our back pain treatment experts in Visalia.  Of course, I’m referring to our doctors of physical therapy.

Half Experience This Problem – Here’s Some Background

Low back pain is extremely common. About one-half of all working Americans will experience symptoms at least once per year, and roughly 31 million are affected by it at any given point in time. It is also the leading cause of years lived with disability worldwide. So if you’ve dealt with low back pain at any point, you’re far from alone.

Dealing with low back pain can be troublesome and place a strain on everyday life, as many typical movements—like bending over to pick something off the ground or twisting your torso when looking to the side—can become strenuous or difficult. In addition, up to two-thirds of patients with low back pain report having persistent pain one year later, which can make matters worse.

Searching for Back Pain Treatment in Visalia? We Offer a Long-Term Solution

This highlights the need to identify solutions that will help relieve the years of suffering that can be associated with low back pain. Physical therapy and other nonsurgical interventions are typically recommended as the first line of treatment for low back pain, but since the origins of pain are complex and derived from physical, mental, and social factors, a multifaceted approach that addresses these varied factors may be most effective.

Resilience – It Means More than Just Putting Up with the Pain

Resilience is a dynamic process that relates to a patient’s ability to adapt and adjust to adversity, which results in either recovery or sustainability of the adverse circumstance. This concept is one our back pain treatment experts in Visalia apply. It’s likely to be applicable because it takes the focus away from the negative components of the condition, and places it instead on the positive components to show patients that recovery is possible.

The Research

Therefore, a study was conducted to evaluate the relationship between lifestyle behaviors and emotional health factors on low back pain resilience, which was assessed through recovery and sustainability. Researchers administered a survey to 1,065 twins who had low back pain for at least one day in the previous three months at the start of the study. The survey was used to gather information and create a lifestyle behavior score (based on body mass index, activity engagements, sleep quality, smoking and alcohol use) and emotional health score (based on the absence of depression, perceived stress, active coping). Follow-up surveys were administered every 2–3 years to compare these scores with the primary outcomes of low back pain resilience assessed as recovery and sustainability of maintaining high levels of function despite having low back pain.

Although no relationship was found between the lifestyle behavioral score and the emotional health score to a likelihood of recovery from low back pain, there was a positive association between these scores and greater levels of sustainability of function despite having low back pain. The results suggest that people who adopt positive lifestyle behaviors and positive emotional factors are more likely to be resilient and more likely to maintain high levels of function despite having low back pain episodes.

Our Back Pain Experts Address Both Lifestyle & Emotional Health

Patients with low back pain are therefore encouraged to focus on addressing both lifestyle behaviors and emotional health factors—such as those identified in this study—in addition to physical interventions to improve their ability to sustain their pain and function better.

Contact Our Back Pain Treatment Experts in Visalia…and Hanford Too

If you’re dealing with low back pain and are looking for additional guidance, we can help. Contact Bacci & Glinn Physical Therapy at 559-733-2478 (Visalia) or 559-582-1027 (Hanford) for more information or to schedule an appointment today.  Click here to visit our contact page for details.

Core Ex + Manual Therapy for CLBP

Manual Therapy And Core-Strengthening Exercises Can Effectively Alleviate Chronic Low Back Pain

Low back pain is jarringly common. About one-half of all working Americans will experience symptoms at least once every year, and roughly 31 million are affected by it at any given point in time. So if you consider yourself part of this group, you have plenty of company.

Dealing with low back pain can be troublesome and place a strain on everyday life. Typical movements like bending over to pick something off the ground or twisting your torso when looking to the side might suddenly give you pause and make you less mobile in the process. This is one of the main reasons that low back pain is also one of the leading causes for missed work due to disability.

Fortunately, most cases of low back pain will resolve on their own over a short period of time

Ninety-percent of people with back pain will experience complete resolution, but for about 10% of patients, pain will persist beyond three months, in which case it’s called “chronic” low back pain. When the condition becomes chronic, it often leads to greater disability and has an even stronger impact on one’s quality of life due to the frequency and severity of the pain. In addition, although only a small percentage of patients experience chronic low back pain, it accounts for 80% of the indirect costs because treating it is often more difficult.

Physical therapy, however, is an extremely effective treatment option for low back pain at any stage of its development. When treating chronic low back pain, physical therapists use many of the same principles that are used to treat acute low back pain—which is pain lasting for less than three months—but they place an even greater focus on education about the psychological aspects of pain, which are significant in these cases. Some of the interventions therapists use most frequently for chronic low back pain include manual (hands-on) therapy, stretching exercises, strengthening exercises for the back and core muscles, and education on the nature of chronic pain and how to break out of negative thinking patterns.

Study supports the value of manual therapy and core-strengthening exercises

The benefits of physical therapy for chronic low back pain were highlighted in a recently published study called a randomized-controlled trial, which is considered the gold standard for individual studies. For the study, 148 patients with chronic low back pain were randomly assigned to either cognitive functional therapy or a therapy program focused on core exercises and manual therapy. Cognitive functional therapy is an intervention led by physical therapists that integrates strategies from psychology and neuroscience into a comprehensive treatment regimen. Both interventions lasted for eight weeks, and patients were evaluated periodically for up to one year.

Results showed that one year later, both groups experienced improvements in disability and there was no difference in pain intensity between the two interventions. Therefore, this highlights how core-strengthening exercises and manual therapy are effective for patients with chronic low back pain in the long term.

If you’re dealing with chronic low back pain, we can help. Contact Bacci & Glinn Physical Therapy at 559-733-2478 (Visalia) or 559-582-1027 (Hanford) for more information or to schedule an appointment today.

Cervicogenic Headache Treatment in Visalia

Some Headaches Are Caused By Neck Issues, But Physical Therapy Can Help

If you are searching for someone that can alleviate your headache pain, there’s a good chance we can help.  Cervicogenic headache treatment in Visalia is provided at our physical therapy center…quite successfully.  Below is some educational information about this type of headache pain.

There are Over 100 Different Kinds of Headaches – We Treat One of the Common Types

More than 100 types of headaches have been categorized by healthcare experts, but they all share in common an ability to cause serious impairment when they strike. Cervicogenic headaches are caused by a dysfunction of the neck and are one of the most common types of headaches, but various physical therapy techniques can effectively address them.

Headaches can generally be classified into two groups: primary and secondary. A primary headache simply means the headache itself is the disorder, while secondary headaches result from an injury or disorder in another area of the body. Cervicogenic headaches are one of the most prevalent secondary headaches, as they account for about 15–20% of headaches overall.

Since cervicogenic headaches occur due to a dysfunction of the neck, they are considered a form of referred pain in which the source of the pain is within the cervical—or neck—region of the spine, but the sensation of pain is felt in the head as a headache. This is because there are nerves in the upper spine that have connections with certain nerves in the head, and damage or dysfunction in one area leads to symptoms in the other.

Cervicogenic headaches frequently occur after trauma to the neck, such as after whiplash from a car accident. Poor posture and regularly straining the neck can also be contributing factors. Symptoms can occur rapidly or develop gradually, and the most common sign of a cervicogenic headache is pain on one side of the face or head, which can get worse after sudden movements of the neck, coughing, sneezing, or taking a deep breath. Other symptoms include stiff neck, pain attacks lasting for hours or days, and pain that stays in one location.

Study shows how two hands-on therapy techniques are effective for cervicogenic headaches

Physical therapy is among the most effective treatments for cervicogenic headaches, and a typical treatment program will likely consist of postural reeducation, strengthening and stretching exercises, and manual therapy. Manual therapy involves various techniques administered by the hands of the treating physical therapist, including manipulation and mobilization, which are two of the most frequently used types of manual therapy for cervicogenic headaches.

The consensus among physical therapists is that manipulation and mobilization have similar effectiveness for cervicogenic headaches, but research directly comparing these two methods is lacking. Therefore, a study was conducted in which 45 patients with cervicogenic headache were randomly assigned to undergo a single session of either manipulation or mobilization by a physical therapist. All patients were assessed for neck pain and disability, headache severity, and several other outcome measures before and after treatment.

Positive Outcomes for Both Seeking Headache Pain Relief

Results showed that both groups improved over time for all outcomes measured, and there were no significant differences between groups at each of the follow-up periods. In addition, no patients reported any adverse events during the trial. These results suggest that both manipulation and mobilization are similarly effective for patients with cervicogenic headaches, although it’s important to note that spinal manipulation is generally associated with greater risks.

If you’re at all familiar with headaches, then you know what they can do to your life when they strike. While there are still many unknowns when it comes to managing headaches, physical therapy remains an effective option that individually caters treatment based on the specific type of headache that is present.

So if you regularly deal with headaches, and are looking for cervicogenic headache treatment in Visalia or Hanford, we can help.

Contact Bacci & Glinn Physical Therapy at 559-733-2478 (Visalia) or 559-582-1027 (Hanford) for more information or to schedule an appointment today.

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