ActiveCare Physical Therapy, PC
12 W 37th St. Ste. 1202
New York, NY 10018
About ActiveCare Physical Therapy®
The Best Physical Therapists in NYC
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Our therapists are licensed in New York State and active members in the American Physical Therapy Association. We have advanced training in joint mobilization and myofascial release techniques.
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We are dedicated practitioners with a passion for the profession and a comprehensive, holistic approach to treatment and healing. We treat each patient as an individual and treat the whole person, with a plan of care designed to meet the patient’s set goals for health, functionality and a return to work, tasks and activities. We network with a team of physicians, chiropractors, acupuncturists and massage therapists in order to provide guidance to other modalities that may be effective in the patients’ care.
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Physical Therapist and owner Karena Wu is a graduate of the Program in Physical Therapy at Columbia University and is affiliated with several healthcare organizations in New York City. She is certified as a Strength and Conditioning Specialist, Kinesio Taping Practitioner and Pilates Instructor, and uses SpiderTech Taping. She is also a Certified Orthopedic Manual Therapist, Strength and Conditioning Specialist, Graston Technique Specialist and Pilates Instructor. She holds LSVT BIG, FMS and SFMA Level 1 certifications as well. Dr. Wu also specializes in vertigo and temporomandibular joint disorders.
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ActiveCare is primarily an out-of-network facility. We accept all insurance with out-of-network benefits and file for most major insurance plans. We work with all prospective patients to create workable payment plans regardless of insurance coverage.
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ActiveCare accepts Medicare, No-Fault and Workers’ Compensation patients depending on schedule availability.
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ActiveCare’s administrators provide seamless and efficient concierge-style client service to all of our patients. And the whole ActiveCare team makes sure your time with us is a beneficial, productive and enjoyable experience.
Quick Links
Manual Therapy Bursitis Plantar Fascitis Meniscus Tears Labral Tears Kinesiology Taping Pilates Rehab
Visit Our Main Website:
www.ActiveCarePhysicalTherapy.com
Blog Posts Are Below:
Plantar Fasciitis Physical Therapy
Can you get physical therapy for plantar fasciitis? Plantar fasciitis causes pain at the bottom of your heel. Your plantar fascia is ligament that connects the heel with the front side of the foot. Resembling a web, it works like a shock absorber and the curve of your foot, which helps you to walk.
Plantar fasciitis is among the most common orthopedic complaints. During your daily life, you experience a lot of wear and tear in your plantar fascia ligaments. When you put a lot of pressure on your ligaments, they suffer from damage and tears. When this ligament suffers from damage, it becomes inflamed, and you feel pain and stiffness due to this inflammation.
However, the real cause of plantar fasciitis is not clear. In a study, it was suggested that this condition involves degeneration then inflammation of the plantar fascia (Source). The better name of this condition may be plantar fasciosis because the meaning of fasciitis is inflammation of the fascia.
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Symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis
The symptoms of plantar fasciitis appear when you suddenly increase your activities. You may feel a stabbing type of pain on the bottom of the heel, and a sensation that your arch is stiffed and tender. If you are suffering from plantar fasciitis, you may experience pain:
- When you are standing for a long time
- In the morning, when you step out of your bed and take your first steps.
- When you stand up after sitting for a long time
- After you perform intensity activities such as jumping or running
- When you walk wearing shoes with poor support or barefoot
- While climbing stairs
The pain can rise and fall during the day time, and when your body warms up after you perform various activities, the pain gets worse. In severe cases, you may start limping.
Common treatments Physical Therapists Use to Cure Plantar Fasciitis
1. Fascia mobilization
Mobilizing your fascial bond on the plantar region of your foot is essential to modify your scar tissue and increase flexibility in weight-bearing demands. As rolling a ball on the bottom of your foot in order to lower the tension on the muscle can help with mobility, it is not deep enough to concentrate on the restrictions. Physical therapists can specifically target the primary restricted areas, but you can also target the limitations in the mobility of your foot and ankle by keeping your foot from getting used to the ground while evening weight distribution when you are walking.
2. Graston/ASTYM
Both of these methods improve the mobility of soft tissues with the help of unique crafted tools. These tools are specially designed to target soft tissues and connective restrictions in your body. Physical therapists are trained in one of these techniques, and directly target the restriction areas and adjust the scar tissue that is causing chronic pain, limited mobility, and stiffness. Once the pain and mobility improve, you will regain your foot’s functionality.
3. Dry Needling
Dry needling is a type of trigger point therapy that releases muscle restriction, which is mainly responsible for pain and altered movement. With this method, your therapist doesn’t treat your plantar fascia directly. Rather, they target knots in the hamstring and proximal calf muscles to provide favorable benefits.
4. Low-Dye or Kinesio Taping
Low-Dye is a kind of taping that avoids flattening of your arch. This offers pain relief and support to your plantar fascia while performing weight-bearing tasks. Low-Dye is a rehabilitative technique that uses specially designed tape to provide muscle support, which eventually promotes the natural healing method of your body. This will help improve your foot’s function without limiting natural mobility. Patients who improve their conditions with Kinesio taping also benefited from orthotics.
5. Footwear Recommendations
While people with high or low arches are likely to develop fasciitis, the choice of shoes may differ. Your physical therapist will not only advise you on how you can accommodate your foot on the ground but also offer recommendations for shoes that can reduce your pain while you stand or walk.
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What You Should Expect from a Physical Therapist
Your physical therapist may ask you the following questions to better understand your condition:
- Do your symptoms occur at a particular time during the day?
- Do you run or participate in sports that require running?
- What kind of shoes do you wear most often?
- Do you have a job that is physically demanding?
- Do you feel pain in places other than your feet?
- Have you suffered from foot problems before?
- What activities worsen your symptoms?
- What activities improve your symptoms?
Plantar Fasciitis Physical Therapy: Conclusion
If you ignore plantar fasciitis, it may end up in chronic heel pain that affects your daily activities. Unless you change your way of walking to relieve plantar fasciitis, the condition may lead to back, hip, knee, or foot problems. So it is essential to visit a Physical therapist as soon as possible.
Get in touch with ActiveCare Physical Therapy© at (212) 777-4374 to schedule an appointment with a professional physical therapist. For further information, visit our main website.
What is Bursitis?
Bursitis is an inflammation of the fluid filled sac that sits between tendons and bones. The purpose of the bursa is to minimize friction when the tendon pulls on the bone during movement. If muscles and tendons are tight, they can compress the bursa and cause irritation. The bursa is a passive structure so oftentimes you will feel more pain at rest versus with movement.
Treatment for bursitis is to reduce the irritation and inflammation in the bursa. Modalities that reduce inflammation and swelling will help reduce the pain. A physical therapist will determine if the overlying muscles need to be stretched or strengthened to reduce pressure on the bursa. Kinesiology tape, ultrasound, soft tissue mobilization, stretches and strengthening exercises will be utilized to help reduce the pain.
Bursitis can resolve in a few days to a few weeks. Rest is also commonly prescribed and patients will be educated about their condition and what activity modifications are required.
The physical Therapists at ActiveCare Physical Therapy © are experts in treating all types of bursitis, including the hip, shoulder and knee.
If you’re in need of physical therapy sessions for bursitis, or call us (212) 777-4374
Plantar Fasciitis & Physical Therapy
What is plantar fasciitis? The plantar fascia is a very dense fibrous band of connective tissue that sits under the foot. Plantar fasciitis occurs when this tissue gets inflamed and irritated when the calf muscles get tight from overuse and there is a log of pressure in the foot. Common patient complaints will be pain on the bottom and inside of the heel especially first thing in the morning and after prolonged sitting.
Causes & Treatment
Causes of plantar fasciitis can be from wearing heels, standing too long, being overweight, having high arches, tight heel cords or wearing unsupportive shoes. Treatment for plantar fasciitis includes reducing the inflammation, stretching the muscles and connective tissue, mobilizing the subtalar joint and rigid and kinesiology taping to maintain joint positioning to reduce tension on the fascia. A physical therapist can guide you in wearing night splints, resting, wearing supportive inserts and exercises to stretch and strengthen the lower leg musculature.
Plantar fasciitis can take months to resolve because of the constant use of our feet and the wear and tear they endure. If physical therapy does not resolve it quickly, injections can be an adjunct option during your rehabilitation.
If you need physical therapy for plantar fasciitis, call us at ActiveCare Physical Therapy in NYC. We have extensive experience treating the foot and many other common conditions requiring physical therapy. Get in touch with us to schedule an appointment or use the easy online today!
Rehabilitation Physical Therapists
If you are suffering from a serious injury, went through surgery, or had a stroke, your doctor might recommend a rehabilitation physical therapist so that you can recover. With rehabilitation therapy, you will experience a controlled medical environment that will help you recover from your condition. Moreover, you will be able to redevelop your strength, relearn the skills that you lost, or find a new way to perform various activities that might be difficult for you now.
Therapists and rehabilitation experts will help you recover from any physical changes that your injury caused, chronic disease, or medical conditions. There are various types of rehabilitation specialists, including occupational therapists, physical therapists, and speech therapists.
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1. Occupational Therapists
Occupational therapists will help you perform tasks that you need for every-day working and living. These therapists work with people who have mental, physical, or developmental disabilities. This includes patients who experienced a stroke and have lost functionality on one side of the body. Furthermore, patients who have lung or heart disease, breathing or activity limitations, suffer from diabetes, or amputees also need therapy. They help their clients to find a new way to work, eat, cook, or dress. They may visit their patients at their workplace or at their home so that they can find adaptive equipment or guide them to do things in new ways. Occupational therapists have a doctoral or master’s degree and earn licensing through their state.
You might be of any age to receive occupational therapy services. From newborns to seniors, all people require these therapists. Occupational therapists can help you in endless ways, such as:
- When you experience a painful brain injury and lose your cognitive function, you may require a therapist to assist you in tasks and activities such as applying for a job or submitting college applications.
- Children suffering from physical disabilities may require a therapist to help develop the coordination needed to eat, improve handwriting, and operate a computer.
- Adults suffering from depression can also visit a therapist so that they can re-engage in their daily tasks and maximize their chances to succeed in life.
- If a person loses the ability to grab a spoon because of an injury, they may consult a therapist to regain grip strength and adjust movements, ultimately being able to resume daily life tasks.
2. Physical Therapists (PTs)
Physical therapists help you when you have a disability, medical condition, or injury that limits your ability to function or even move. Physical therapists will test your ability to move and your strength. Then, they will create a treatment plan. The main focus of treatment is to restore function, reduce pain, improve mobility, or prevent any further disability from occurring. Physical Therapists also treat patients who had a stroke, amputation, chronic disease, or injury. To become a physical therapist, a person should have 2-years of masters or 3-year doctoral degree. They also need a license from the state. Common therapies of a physical therapist include:
- Pain management
- Balance and gait retraining
- Cardiovascular strengthening
- Special stretches and exercises designed to improve mobility, relieve pain or regain strength.
- Rehab and exercises so that you can learn how to use an artificial limb
- Splinting, burn care, casting, or using orthotics (splints or braces)
- Practicing the gadgets assisting in balance or movement, such as crutches, canes, wheelchairs, or walkers
- Heat or cold therapy, ultrasound, or massage to ease muscle spasms and pain
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3. Respiratory Therapists
Respiratory Therapists care and treat people with breathing problems. They help patients with all ages, starting from premature babies to older aged-people with lung disease, emphysema, or asthma. Respiratory therapists need a license in most states. Along with a license, they also need an associate’s degree; however, many respiratory therapists also have a bachelor’s degree.
4. Speech Therapists
These types of therapists are also known as speech-language pathologists. They help patients who are unable to speak, communicate, or swallow properly. Such problems are mostly the result of cancer, brain injury, or a stroke. Speech therapists construct a program based on each of their patients. If a patient could not speak, the therapist may guide them to communicate through sign language, communication devices, and any other methods. For people who are unable to swallow, they teach them to strengthen their muscles or a different way to swallow liquids and food without choking. Speech therapists require a master’s degree and a license from their state.
Rehabilitation Physical Therapist: Conclusion
If you are looking for rehabilitation therapists and require a rehabilitation program to recover from a condition or disability, call our clinic at (212) 777-4374. You can also visit our website for more information.
We have the best professional therapists who are available to help you with most common injuries and conditions, such as hip, neck or back pain, and any disability. They are ready to understand your problems and design a program to improve your health and daily life activities.
ActiveCare Physical Therapy Participates in the 2021 NYC Walk to Cure Arthritis
Team Activecare PT was honored this year to be named the Top Fundraising Team of the NYC Walk to Cure Arthritis! We raised over 25K this year with the help of our generous donors who include family, friends and patients. Team ActiveCare PT walked through midtown Manhattan to enjoy the beautiful weather and support this great cause which affects 54 million Americans. You can still donate even though the walk is done.
Please go to our team page: https://events.arthritis.org/team/ActiveCarePhysicalTherapy. Every little bit helps to find a cure for arthritis. Thank you for your support!
Physical Therapy Telehealth
Have you ever wished that your physical therapist can teach you to move better at home? Do you find it hard to reach your appointments on time? You can try physical therapy telehealth, which is a one on one, live video appointment with your physical therapist. Telehealth is becoming famous nowadays and enables patients to talk and see their physical therapists and healthcare providers, from the convenience and comfort of your home.
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How Is Telehealth Delivered?
There are four ways a physical therapist can deliver telehealth physical therapy services. Below you can find all the methods:
1. Live Video
This is also called “synchronous” format and involves live interaction between both parties through video. You can also call this method real-time. This is the best and ideal type of delivery for treatments and evaluations.
2. Store-and-Forward
You can also call this method ‘asynchronous’ format. This offers you to transfer medical or history records through a secure electronic means. You can send your x-rays, progressive notes, and much more through this method.
3. Remote Patient Monitoring (RPM):
This involves remote monitoring of health and medical data of the patients through secure electronic means. This method is perfect for monitoring blood glucose and blood pressure, steps each day, and much more.
4. Mobile Health (mHealth):
This offers education, public health notifications, and healthcare services over tablets, cell phone, and other electronic devices.
Benefits of Telehealth Physical Therapy
Here are some reasons when you should consider telehealth physical therapist:
1. Accessibility
You can stay in touch with your physical therapist after the first in-person visit. Telehealth physical therapy will also connect you with a professional physical therapist who has great experience, knows your condition, has board certification as a specialist, and is far from you. If you live in an area where you cannot find any physical therapist, you can use this method.
2. Home Safety
You can also discuss ways to maintain the safety of your house through a visual telehealth appointment. Your physical therapist can also guide you on what to do if you fall.
3. Convenience
You can communicate with the physical therapist anywhere, anytime. Therefore, physical therapy sessions are possible for everyone. If you had a new injury and require quick advice and cannot leave your bed, you can discuss your condition with your physical therapist through telehealth physical therapy. So with telehealth physical therapy, you no longer need to compromise your health if you cannot visit the physical therapist in person.
4. Personalized Care
During a visit to telehealth private physical therapy session, you will be working one on one with your physical therapist, without any distraction. You can also ask your caregivers or family members to join the appointment.
5. Success Rates
Patients who participated in telehealth physical therapy were likely to follow their home exercise program. Your physical therapist will share an effective and safe home exercise program that you can do at home according to your goals and needs. It is essential to stick to your prescribed exercise for long-term health benefits.
6. Time Savings
There is no waiting in the waiting area. And after your appointment, you can quickly start dealing with the activities you performed before the session without spending any time on the roads.
7. Transportation
You do not have to drive. A telehealth appointment will reduce all your burdens of traveling to your appointments. Telehealth is perfect for caregivers and parents with children who are concerned about traveling for the appointment with their loved ones. Telehealth is also perfect for people who have no access to transportation that easily.
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Most of the patients who went through telehealth physical therapy expressed satisfaction and would want to take the session again. Patients receive support and stay connected with their telehealth physical therapist. Having such support by staying at home and still going through rehabilitation is effective. According to some studies, telehealth has equal and better outcomes than traditional physical therapy methods. Who Can Join In Telehealth Physical Therapy?
People belonging to any age, who are having some medical condition or symptoms, can be the candidate for telehealth. Here are a few examples of conditions in which a physical therapist can help you through telehealth:
- Cancer rehabilitation
- Chronic pain management
- Postoperative care
- Balance
- And any other condition that physical therapist thinks he can help you through telehealth
Physical Therapy Telehealth: Conclusion
As now we spend more time at home practicing social distancing, each state is having difficulty in deciding whether physical therapy is viable. Physical therapy is essential for safely treating and repairing musculoskeletal injuries.
Therefore, if you are looking for a physical therapist for your condition regarding pain in your ligaments, tendons, or bones, you can call us at (212) 777-4374. Alternatively, visit our website for a better understanding of your condition.
ActiveCare Physical Therapy Treats Patients With Arthritis
ActiveCare Physical Therapy treats patients with arthritis. Arthritis encompasses different diagnoses like rheumatoid, juvenile, psoriatic, lupus, gout and fibromyalgia and many more. NYC’s Best Physical Therapist Dr. Karena Wu and her team work with patients with ankylosing spondylitis which affects the spine. Exercise is an important component of treatment and management of this condition in addition to manual therapies.
Dr. Wu was quoted in The Healthy speaking on these topics:
Everyday Health: 7 Quick Ways to Fit Exercise into Your Day if You Have Ankylosing Spondylitis
2021 Virtual Walk To Cure Arthritis NYC | A Personal Conversation with Dr. Wu & Jacqueline Cooper Travels
Physical Therapy: Shoulders
At what point do you need physical therapy for the shoulders? Your shoulders are an essential part of your body. They are the most movable and flexible joints that consist of multiple tendons, bones, and muscles. They are responsible for providing mobility, which allows you to perform various daily tasks and activities, along with various exercise routines.
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Shoulder pain may be due to numerous reasons, and you can take various steps to reduce your discomfort. Physical therapy is an easy, effective, and natural way to get relief from shoulder pain. To know more about how physical therapy can help you with your back pain, you should read this article.
Physical therapy, or rehabilitation, can ease you from joint and muscle pain. A licensed and professional physical therapist will use various methods to strengthen your muscles, make your body move, and feel better. Here are some of the methods that a Physical therapist might try on you:
- Joint Mobilization
- Soft Tissue Mobilization
- Limitations Assessment
- Strengthening Exercises
- Stretches for Flexibility
- Kinesio Taping for Stability
- Ultrasound massage
Millions of people suffering from shoulder pain will visit a physical therapist for relief. A physical therapist is a licensed and highly educated professional who has the ability to treat various chronic conditions, diseases, and injuries.
The primary goal of physical therapy is to maintain everyday quality of life by increasing your mobility and strength and decreasing your pain. If you have difficulty dressing up, reaching the highest shelf, and tucking in your shirt, then physical therapy is necessary. Or if you are avoiding similar activities due to pain, weakness, or stiffness, physical therapy is the best option for help.
Why are You Experiencing Shoulder Pain
There are many reasons for your shoulder pain. For instance, sudden trauma or injury to your shoulders can lead to severe pain. Repetitive motion can also be a reason for shoulder pain, as your tendons, joints, and muscles are working overtime. Physical therapy can help you with many conditions that may be the reason for your discomfort or pain that you are experiencing in your shoulder. Some of the common conditions that result in shoulder pain are mentioned below:
1. Tendonitis
This condition occurs when you have inflamed or irritated tendons. Tendonitis may appear in various regions of your body. You may know this condition with other names, such as swimmer’s shoulder, tennis elbow, and jumper’s knee. An experienced physical therapist can treat different types of tendonitis and relieve the inflamed area.
2. Strains and Sprains
A strain may occur due to torn or stretched tendons or muscles. A sprain may occur when you tear or pull your ligaments. Strains and sprains may result in severe shoulder pain, which makes daily life activities and tasks harder to perform. A minor sprain or strain can improve by resting or by icing at home. If the condition is severe, you will require treatment through physical therapy.
Rotator cuff strains are one of the leading reasons for shoulder pain. A physical therapist will find the best exercises to strengthen your shoulder without further damage and utilizing other treatments to decrease your shoulder pain.
3. Bursitis
Bursitis is an inflamed condition of the joints. These are fluid-filled sacs that surround your tendons, muscles, and bones. Bursitis affects those sacs and often occurs due to repetitive motions. You may feel achy or stiff in the affected area if you are experiencing bursitis. The affected area will swell and become red. With physical therapy, you can ease the painful symptoms and inflammation.
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4. Frozen Shoulder
Frozen shoulder is a condition with severe pain, which occurs after a long time of inactivity, such as after an injury or getting contained to a sling or for any unknown reason. This condition becomes worse after some time and results in stiffness and pain. You will probably recover from this condition after a few years, but physical therapy will help provide relief while recovering. Furthermore, it also helps to speed up the process.
5. Arthritis
Arthritis is a disease related to your joints and causes stiffness and pain. There are various types of arthritis, but most commonly, people suffer from rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. Rheumatoid arthritis causes inflammation and swelling in your joints. However, in osteoarthritis, damage to the cartilage between bones causes both the bones to rub together. For both of these arthritis conditions, you can relieve pain and improve mobility through physical therapy.
6. Shoulder Instability
You may be suffering from shoulder instability due to various reasons, such as traumatic dislocation and ligament laxity. Damage to the labrum, which keeps your shoulder in the joint socket, is also a major reason why shoulder instability occurs. Muscles provide stability for your shoulder, and you can strengthen and train to support your shoulder properly.
Physical Therapy for the Shoulders: Conclusion
No matter what type of pain you are suffering from, an experienced physical therapist will create a specialized program to treat your condition. Physical therapy proves to be effective for various conditions, and in most cases, eliminates the requirement of harmful drugs and surgeries.
If you are suffering from shoulder pain or any pain affecting your daily activities, contact us at (212) 777-4374 or visit our main PT website to learn more about Physical Therapy for your shoulder pain and any other condition.
Seneca Women Here’s Something Good: How to get back to your pre-Covid workouts
WFH (work from home) is still in play post Covid-19. International Physical Therapist Dr. Karena Wu was asked to join the Seneca Women podcast network (in partnership with iHeart radio) to discuss how to get back to working out as the covid crisis continues. This daily show is dedicated to describing something good happening in our world. Dr. Wu discusses the things that motivate you, dangers to be aware of and things you can do from your home to get your pre-covid body back. This can apply to anyone working from home anywhere!
To hear the podcast, click for it on Apple podcasts or on iHeartRadio podcasts.
Business Insider India: I Challenged Myself to Stand for 3 Hours a Day for a Week, and my Energy Levels Soared
International celebrity physical therapist Dr. Karena Wu is owner of ActiveCare Physical Therapy NYC and Mumbai. Both clinics offer specialized manual therapies, Pilates based rehabilitation and sports specific rehabilitation. The physical therapists at ActiveCare PT educate patients on daily routines to include work activities. Dr. Wu treats clients in the US as well as India. She was quoted in theBusiness Insider India on her views on sitting versus standing at your desk. She is a big believer in moderation and listening to your body for what the task demands. To see the whole story in Business Insider India, click here.
For the story in other publications, click on one of the images below:
ActiveCare Physical Therapy NYC | April Newsletter
Why It Is Important to Consult a Physical Therapist for Hip Injuries
Do you need a physical therapist for hip injuries? Hip injuries can occur due to several reasons. You could be playing sports or lifting something heavy, which could result in injuring your hip. In case you don’t know, the hip joint tolerates weight when you walk. Applying additional pressure could result in complicated conditions and injury.
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Other than this, if you play sports that consist of physical play, falling down or a bad tackle can injure your hip. You could either wait for the pain to leave or have it checked by a professional, such as a physical therapist, which is always a good idea.
Continue reading forward as we’ll explain why you need to visit a physical therapist in case of a hip injury.
Who Are Physical Therapists?
Physical therapists are the experts in treating and diagnosing physical disorders, injuries, and disabilities of your body. Whether your physical condition is due to any diseases, injury, or other reasons, a physical therapist will find a way to help you improve your ability to move and manage pain.
When the function of your body gets disturbed or related to impairment like neurological, musculoskeletal, integumentary (skin), and cardiopulmonary, a physical therapist can recommend treatment accordingly. Before recommending or applying any treatment to alleviate the pain, they evaluate these systems.
They devise accurate and safe exercises for your physical condition. A physical therapist must have good problem-solving and verbal communication skills. The best physical therapist avoids creating a traditional office atmosphere and enjoys his works with other employees.
Types of Hip Conditions a Physical Therapist Treats
Our hip joint is a joint between our pelvis and thigh bone. You can also call them ball-and-socket joints because they look like a ball from the top area of your thigh bone. Usually, your hips tolerate tremendous force during the gait cycle, and it can break in case of severe injury only.
You can damage or injure your hips due to playing intense sports, falling from a height, or running. Almost all hip conditions are treatable, but if you do not give them proper attention, you might have to live with following hip conditions.
- Hip arthritis
- Femoroacetabular Impingement (FAI)
- Avascular necrosis
- Hip bursitis
- Hip dysplasia
- Hip dislocation
- Hip fracture
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Osteoarthritis
How a Physical Therapist Treats Hip Injuries
If you have any hip injury or condition, seek help from a physical therapist. Delaying might increase the risk of further complications, such as, weakness, pain, instability, or healing of fracture in the wrong position (difficult to undo). Some home remedies like icing and compression might decrease swelling, but it won’t cure or fix your injury properly.
Consulting a physical therapist will get you a quick diagnosis accordingly. They can treat your hip condition with simple treatments. Your physical therapist might include some medicines and exercises during your hip treatment procedure.
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The most common technique a physical therapist use to treat your hip condition is internal rotation joint mobilization in supine. Your therapist will rotate the hip by bending your knee to a 90-degree angle (flexed position). This technique will increase your hip’s resistance and help you in standing and walking with less pain.
How Long Does the Physical Therapy for Hip Injuries Last?
A physical therapist will focus on reducing your pain, increasing motion, and improving strength. Techniques for reducing pain might include icing, massage, exercises, and heat. As for your motion and movement speed, they will start by moving your hip passively and take a step forward to active stretching and exercises.
However, during the whole physical therapy procedure, you have to avoid any physical activities without the supervision of your therapist. Hip injuries usually take almost six weeks to heal, but you cannot predict a time frame until you know its severity.
Bottom Line: Consult ActiveCare Physical Therapy © for Your Hip Injury
If you’re thinking where you can find a professional physical therapist, you have come to the right place. At ActiveCare Physical Therapy ©, we have the best therapists to treat most conditions requiring PT, including hip injuries.
Our PT’s provide the latest progressive treatments, from manual therapies to joint mobilizations to functional training. So, if you are suffering from a hip injury or want to consult our therapists for other conditions, contact us today and heal yourself with the best!
ActiveCare Physical Therapy, PC
12 W 37th St. Ste. 1202
New York, NY 10018
(212) 777-4374
Sports Physical Therapy: What Is It and How it Helps Athletes
What is sports physical therapy? Everyone plays sports as a hobby or fun activity. Besides, some people devote their lives to a particular sport. Whether playing soccer with friends or on a domestic or international level, everyone who plays sports knows several injuries may occur during and after a game.
Sports injuries such as sore or torn muscles can cause a lot of pain. Sometimes without getting any treatment, a person can move on as the pain fades away. But, if you’re really into sports, it is important that you have someone to help you with your injuries and educate you on your condition.
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This is where sports physical therapists come into play. Continue reading as we discuss how sports physical therapy helps athletes stay fit and prevent injuries.
Who Are Sports Physical Therapists?
Sportsman or not, you must already know what a physical therapist does. They are movement experts who help patients recover from injuries and prevent future problems. These professionals get a doctor of physical therapy degree and go through several years of training to achieve a license.
They know and understand a human body’s anatomy, musculoskeletal system, cardiovascular and pulmonary diseases, etc.
Physical therapists help athletes manage and reduce pain, and restore function. They also help sportspeople achieve fitness, stay active, and prevent injuries.
Physical Therapy in Sports
When it comes to sports, whether played on domestic or international levels, team managers pay hefty amounts to keep their players fit and healthy. One of the things they need to make sure they can provide their players is physical therapists.
As mentioned earlier, it’s pretty common for players to get injured during a game. This means if a player is facing issues in moving with the flexibility they should, a physical therapist evaluates and finds the root cause. They also decide whether the player should continue playing or not.
They usually sit in the sidelines or dugouts during the game. You might have noticed when a football player gets injured; a doctor runs on to the pitch to help them out. Well, these aren’t general physicians; they are physical therapists.
Besides team sports, such as football or cricket, athletes who play individual sports also need physical therapists. For instance, tennis players, boxers, swimmers, cyclists, etc., all need physical therapy at some stage.
The Importance of Sports Physical Therapists
Sports injuries are quite unpredictable, and you never know when it could happen and how. Therefore, players always need someone to help them manage pain and avoid injuries. PTs make sure whether the player can play the current and next game so that they don’t put themselves in further risk. This is why physical therapists play an important role in keeping a player fit and healthy for every game.
Besides, players often schedule meetings with their physical therapists after a game or training to find out whether they are as fit as they should be. Physical therapists work with players and focus on enhancing their mobility by prescribing specific and safe exercises.
A sports physical therapist doesn’t necessarily work for professional players. Even if you’re not a sportsman, but live an active lifestyle and engage in sports activities, you should consider visiting one for advice and examination when you feel pain.
How Do They Help You?
Well, as we mentioned earlier, sports injuries are pretty common, but sometimes they can be quite severe. For instance, some players have to go through surgery, and after that, they are unable to perform the way they used to do before the injury.
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Sports physical therapists engage the patient in safe exercises without any medication and allow the patient to slowly build that mobility they once had. Thus, having a physical therapist by your side during recovery can be quite helpful as this reduces the chances of aggravating the condition and helps quickly recover.
Here are some conditions that a sports physical therapist may treat.
- ROM, this refers to when overuse of muscles causes them to lack the mobility they had
- Ankle sprains are quite common in sports that require you to run
- Broken bones, closed, open, or even compound fractures
- Knee Ligament Injury
- Joint replacement
- Pain in parts of the body that lead to soreness and stiffness
Sports Physical Therapy: Consult ActiveCare Physical Therapy ©
We have mentioned the basics of sports physical therapy and how it plays a useful and helpful part in allowing sports players to continue their healthy activities. If you’re wondering where to find a professional physical therapist, who can advise and help you with any physical condition that needs attention, we have the best physical therapists.
At ActiveCare physical therapy, we adopt a holistic approach to care and also offer sports-specific rehabilitation. So if you want to heal your injuries with the help of the best sports physical therapists in the town, contact us today and book an appointment.
Physical Therapy
Your doctor may suggest physical therapy if you have just recently suffered from a serious physical injury or illness. These injuries or illnesses greatly affect one’s daily life, making everyday tasks harder to perform.
Physical therapy or PT is a treatment that relieves you from pain. It also helps your body move and function better so that you can live a better life. Physical therapy helps you in:
- Improving your movement
- Relieving you from pain
- Works as rehab after surgery, injury, accident, or stroke
- Prevent surgery or disability
- Recover or prevent any sports injury
- Recovering after you gave birth
- Manage a chronic illness such as heart disease, diabetes, or arthritis
- Work on your balance to prevent you from falling and slipping
- Adaptation to an artificial limb
- Control your bladder or bowels
- Get a brace or splint
- Learn to use assistive devices such as cane or walker
You can be of any age to get physical therapy, which can help treat various health problems.
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Most Common Benefits
Physical therapy helps you recover through the pain. No matter what type of condition or injury you are suffering from, a physical therapist can help. Here are some benefits of Physical therapy that you should know:
1. Eliminate or Reduce Pain
Therapeutic exercises and normal therapy help you when you have pain in your joints and soft tissue. Furthermore, treatments such as ultrasounds or electrical stimulation can also help.
2. Avoid Surgery
A physical therapist can help eliminate the pain that you experience due to any injury without surgery. Even in many cases that require surgery, pre-surgery physical therapy may also help. You will recover faster than surgery when there is a pre-surgery therapist to help you. Physical therapy also reduces health expenses.
3. Improve Mobility
If you are having trouble in any kind of movement, despite your age, a therapist can help. They can strengthen and stretch your body muscles to help bring your body back to normal. They can help you recover faster than any other treatment. Physical therapists can properly train you to handle crutches or canes.
4. Recover from a Stroke
It is natural to lose some degrees of movement after you suffer from a stroke. Physical therapy helps weak body parts and improves your balance. Moreover, physical therapists also help people who suffer from a stroke by helping them with everyday tasks that include using the bathroom, getting dressed, and bathing.
5. Recover from a Sports Injury
A physical therapist can understand the different reasons for sports injuries. They can design good prevention programs to ensure that you are safe.
6. Manage Age-Related Issues
You can be of any age and still develop arthritis or osteoporosis. Luckily, physical therapists are good at helping patients recover from joint replacements and manage arthritis.
7. Manage Lung and Heart Disease
Patients may complete cardiac rehabilitation from this procedure after a heart attack. For pulmonary problems, the therapist can improve your life through breathing conditioning and help you by cleaning fluid in the lungs.
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Do You Need Physical Therapy?
How do you know when you require a skilled physical therapist? Well, if you are suffering from an illness or injury that is leading to physical impairment, pain, loss of function, or limited movement, you need a physical therapist to resolve such problems.
A physical therapist can treat you despite your age. That means physical therapy is beneficial for any age. Many specialists suggest that the benefits of physical therapy may include guaranteed treatment for pain and that it’s a strategy to improve body function.
Various problems that a physical therapist treats and evaluate are:
- Amputations
- Stroke
- Fracture
- Spinal cord injury
- Sport injuries
You should know that physical therapy can treat many problems other than those listed above. Just openly speak with your doctor if you are feeling any type of pain. Physical therapists discuss with their patients, doctors of their patients, and family members to ensure that their patients are safe and functioning properly.
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Diseases Treated by Physical Therapy
Here is a list of some diseases and disabilities that one can treat with physical therapy:
- Sports Related Injuries
- Lymphedema
- Back and neck pain
- Muscular dystrophy
- Osteoporosis
- Limited range of motion
- Vertigo
- Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
- Carpel Tunnel Syndrome
- Headaches
- Burns
- Respiratory issues
- Ankle sprain
- Joint replacement
- Foot fracture
- Parkinson’s disease
- Knee ligament injury
- Huntington’s disease
- Cancer
- Pelvic floor dysfunction
Conclusion: Consult ActiveCare Physical Therapy © – Top NYC PT Clinic
To find a suitable physical therapist, you need to keep in mind a number of factors, such as the reason for treatment, insurance, and geographical location. You can contact our clinic to make an appointment if you are in New York City or a telehealth appointment for those out of NYC.
ActiveCare Physical Therapy © provides a wide-range of therapy options for the above mentioned and many more conditions. Contact us at (212)777-4374. Or visit our website for further information.
ActiveCare Physical Therapy joins the Greater New York Chamber of Commerce
The Chamber aims to improve the business climate in the New York Metropolitan Area for businesses, residents and others in the area. They work with over 30,000 businesses and civic leaders in the Greater New York business community. As a small business, ActiveCare Physical Therapy works with many forums to be able to provide the best business and professional services to our clientele. In this new climate, the collaboration with others in our arena is important and now more of a necessity for additional support. We are happy to be a part of the GNYCC and look forward to continuing to provide the best physical therapy services in NYC.
Try ActiveCare Physical Therapy Classes With ClassPass!
Did you know here at ActiveCare Physical Therapy we offer additional services such as one on one stretching sessions, Cupping Massages, and Pilates Based Lower Body Tone and Tighten classes? We have a great team of qualified physical therapists ready to help you reach your healthy and fitness goals.
Check out our Physical Therapy classes on Class Pass today and book your first class today!
Fit3D Postural Scan
You can maintain your overall health by improving your posture. Many people do not know, but having a good posture is as important as a healthy diet, exercising, and getting enough sleep. You need to position your body properly so that you can undertake daily activities with more energy and power. It’s a major factor in maintaining your overall physical health.
So you might be wondering: what is a good posture, and how can you maintain it? Posture is the natural position with which we hold our bodies while sitting, standing, and even laying down. With a good posture, your muscle tension is right, and your entire body aligns symmetrically. Not to mention, it is easy to maintain a good posture.
What is Good Posture?
A good posture is the suitable alignment of your body when sitting or standing. Right positioning involves properly training yourself to hold your entire body against gravity with the minimum tension and strain on supportive structures, such as your ligaments and muscles. Furthermore, appropriate posture maintains your joints and bones in the best alignment and decreases any kind of stress on supportive structures.
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Why Is It Important to Maintain A Good Posture?
Here are a few benefits of maintaining a perfect posture:
- Enabling muscles allows you to coordinate in an effective manner and ensure that the body utilizes less energy. It also helps eliminate muscle fatigue. This will allow the person to perform tasks for a longer time with minimum fatigue.
- Holds your spinal joints at the right place, which is important to maintain good posture. When your ligaments are less-stressed, along with your alignment joints, you will have fewer chances of injury.
- Help you prevent muscular and back pain; all these signs indicate that you have an un-relaxed body. By preventing the pain, you will eliminate numerous alignments that cause bad body posture.
Symptoms of Poor Posture
Symptoms of a poor posture are mentioned below:
- Headache
- Muscle fatigue
- Body pains and aches
- Back pain
- Head leaning forward or backward
- Bent knees while walking or standing
- Potbelly
- Rounded shoulders
What Does a Posture Scanner Do?
The Posture Scan captures the details of everyday human movement. The standardized scan protocol makes the outcome comparable and the examination consistent. You should ‘perform’ each movement of your body according to the instruction video or with expert training. Then, you should record all the performance during the repetitions. The posture scanner also gathers metadata such as age, gender, and discomfort. Before the scan starts, Posture Scanner will ask the candidate if they can squat or balance on one leg.
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Why Fit3D for Your Posture Analysis?
Fit3D ProScanner is a part of the 3D scanner for your body and includes evaluation of your body posture, from your head to your feet. Unlike other equipment that assesses your posture, the Fit3D scanner examines the position of your eyes and ears as a baseline and provides essential insight on your neck and its position. The analysis of our posture calculates your ankle, knees, hips, and shoulder positions while you are standing. It also provides wellness metric poses on the shape of your body, trunk to the leg, and waist to hip volume ratios, and much more.
This is important if you have mobility issues, or chronic pain in your back, neck, or joints. A posture examination can help you focus your time in the fitness center and on activities that support your core. After some time, as your health and fitness improve, you can scan your body again to see changes and additionally regulate your posture.
Finally, and most importantly, the Fit3D ProScanner performs all these processes and analyses automatically. Using the app with an insightful interface, this system provides a complete report with a detailed analysis that would usually require a therapist to determine.
Body Shape Rating (BSR)
BSR is a score based on the connection between your cardiovascular to body shape risk factors. It gives answers to questions as to whether your body shape has a chance to develop potential cardiovascular health issues. BSR is rated from 0 to 100, where 50 is an average score. The higher your number, the lower you are at risk of developing such conditions.
Trunk to Leg Volume Ratio
This ratio compares your trunk’s volume with your legs. According to researches, having a high percentage of body volume in the torso as compared to your legs increases the chances of experiencing diabetes, high blood pressure, metabolic syndromes, high triglyceride (fat) counts, prediabetes, and various health complications.
Weight in Your Midsection
Weight in your midsection is highly associated with visceral fat, which is one of the unhealthy fats covering your organs. This can cause many negative health effects. If you have small legs and a big belly, you have centered-weight on the midsection and visceral fat.
Fit3D Postural Scan: Conclusion
If you are worried about your bad posture, you can visit our clinic for a professional physical therapist. Simply call us at (212) 777-4374 to arrange an appointment or visit our website to learn more about physical therapy and how we treat conditions due to bad posture.
Physical Therapy Professionals: Everything You Need to Know
What do you need to know about physical therapy professionals? If you’re an active person who enjoys physical activities to keep your body moving and blood circulating, you may have suffered injuries. It’s common to tear a muscle or twist your leg while exercising, and you might be familiar with the discomfort and pain that comes with such injuries.
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Normally, people who endure such pain tend to ignore it, and sometimes the pain just fades away. But what if the pain doesn’t go away and gets worse? Well, there’s nothing to worry about because you can book an appointment and visit your physical therapist.
Continue reading on as we’ll discuss why you should consider visiting a physical therapist and what do they do to help you.
Who Are Physical Therapists?
Basically, physical therapists are movement experts who help people by prescribing certain exercises and educating them on how to take care of themselves physically. A physical therapist helps people achieve their fitness goals and lead active lives.
They are professionals who help people of all ages who might have severe injuries and chronic conditions. These professionals go through various educational and practical examinations to become therapists. It allows them to assist people with their injuries and maximize their quality of life.
Note that physical therapists cannot practice if they don’t have a graduate degree from an accredited academic program. They must earn a doctor of physical therapy (DPT) degree and pass a state licensure exam. The DPT programs take up to three years to complete.
During this time, physical therapists learn about various aspects in areas including biology, physiology, musculoskeletal, cardiovascular and pulmonary diseases, exercise physiology, neuroscience, etc. This helps therapists create a better understanding of the field.
What Do Physical Therapists Do
They aim to prevent people from major surgeries, prescription drugs, and avoid unhealthy habits. Physical therapists help patients move, manage, or reduce pain, prevent disability, and restore function.
Once they examine the patients, physical therapists develop a treatment plan to improve the patient’s ability to move. Other than this, their treatments also prevent and manage certain pain that occurs due to movement.
Physical therapists not only work to help people with disabilities or health conditions. If you’re someone who wants to live a healthy life and avoid physical problems, physical therapists will guide you accordingly.
Consulting a physical therapist to manage and reduce pain can have a good impact on your life. They help many patients with their fitness goals and maintain an active lifestyle.
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When Should You Consider Visiting One?
One of the most common reasons why people consider visiting a physical therapist is for rehabilitation. If you’ve had microdiscectomy or ACL reconstruction, you will receive instructions from your surgeon to visit a physical therapist. The PT will focus on getting you back to doing the things you love as soon as possible.
Another common reason people should and do visit a PT is because of chronic pain or injury. It’s important that you understand what your body is telling you. If you feel a discomforting pain, which could be due to some physical activity, you need to visit a PT to confirm the pain source and whether there is any need for treatment.
However, you don’t have to have a severe injury or critical problem to consult physical therapists. Even if you’re looking to adopt a healthy lifestyle or have ambitions to improve your physical health, you can visit a physical therapist.
What Happens If You Don’t Visit A Physical Therapist?
Leaving any condition untreated would result in worsening it. Therefore, to avoid further complications, it is necessary that after surgery or when you feel any pain in your body, visit a physical therapist.
What Conditions Do Physical Therapy Professionals Treat?
They diagnose and treat many health conditions, including disabilities and injuries. We have mentioned a few of them down below.
- Back and Neck Pain
- Herniated Discs
- Sports Injuries
- Shoulder Injuries
- Knee Injuries
- Post Motor Vehicle Accident Injury Recovery
- Muscular Dystrophy
- Post-Surgical Rehabilitation
- Limited Range of Motion (ROM)
- Arthritis
- Parkinson’s Disease
- Multiple Sclerosis
- Overuse Injuries
- Repetitive Use Injuries
- Vertigo
- Headaches/TMD
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Benefits of Physical Therapy
There are several advantages that, once you know, you might consider consulting with a physical therapist soon. We have listed some of the benefits of physical therapy below.
- Physical therapy promotes safe exercises that enhance your mobility and give you a challenge that creates balance in your body.
- It is a great source that helps in easy and quick recovery from injuries, stroke, trauma, and paralysis.
- Helps strengthen the core of your body
- Prevents physical disabilities and chronic health conditions that a patient might have inherited
- Treats and manages pain that comes with age
- Treats conditions with safe techniques that may help a patient avoid surgery and medication
- Can improve physical activity, lifestyle, and mobility of someone without any health conditions
Physical Therapy Professionals: Conclusion
Now you may know the importance of physical therapy and visiting physical therapists. If you have any of the diseases or conditions mentioned above, or want to live a better lifestyle, it’s time for you to visit a physical therapist.
If you’re looking for more information or want to book an appointment, ActiveCare Physical Therapy © has the best physical therapists in New York. Contact us today for all PT needs, including manual therapies and sports-related rehabilitation.
Physical Therapy for Knees
Do you need physical therapy for your knees? Did you recently have surgery or hurt your knee? Or is your knee getting stiff or achy due to arthritis? In any way, you will not feel like getting up and moving your joint. But mostly, doctors suggest physical therapy for such knee conditions. Physical therapy can restore your strength and show you a way to the road of recovery.
Physical therapy, or rehabilitation, can ease you from joint and muscle pain. A licensed and professional physical therapist will use various methods to strengthen your muscles, make your body move, and feel good. Here are some of the methods that a Physical therapist might try on you:
- Joint Mobilization
- Soft Tissue Mobilization
- Limitations Assessment
- Strengthening Exercises
- Stretches for Flexibility
- Kinesio Taping for Stability
- Ultrasound massage
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When you follow the instructions of physical therapists, there are chances that you can reduce your pain and might not need any surgery to recover.
Doctors might also suggest a few weeks of physical therapy after you are done with your operation to recover faster. Your doctor will recommend a physical therapist, or you can contact us to visit a professional physical therapist at our clinic.
Symptoms of Knee Pain
The severity and location of your pain may vary, and depends on what causes you the pain. You can find some symptoms and signs for knee pain below:
- Inability to keep your knee straight
- Crunching or popping noises
- Weakness or instability
- Warmth and redness to the touch
- Stiffness and swelling
Physical Therapy for Knees: Causes of Knee Pain
You may be having knee pain due to mechanical problems, injuries, different types of arthritis, and many other problems. Here are some common reasons for developing knee pain:
1. Injury
A knee injury can damage your tendons, ligaments, bursae (fluid-filled sacs) surrounding your knee joint, and your ligaments, cartilage, and bones forming the joint. Here are some common knee injuries:
- ACL Injury: This condition is common because people who play soccer, basketball, or any other sports need sudden direction.
- Fractures: The kneecap breaks while falling or because of a vehicle collision. If you are experiencing osteoporosis, you may get a knee fracture by just stepping wrong.
- Torn Meniscus: The meniscus comprises of tough cartilage and acts as a shock absorber because of rubbery nature. If you bear weight on your knee and twist, there are chances that meniscus tears up.
- Knee Bursitis: Due to some knee injuries, you may feel inflammation in the bursae. Bursae are the small sacs containing fluid and cover the knee joint. It helps in sliding ligaments and tendons smoothly over the joint.
- Patellar Tendinitis: Tendinitis is inflammation and irritation of tendons. Tendons are fibrous and thick tissue attaching bones to muscles. Cyclists, skiers, runners, and those involved in jumping activities and sports may suffer from this condition.
2. Mechanical Problems
Here some of the mechanical problems leading to knee pain:
- Loose Body
Sometimes degeneration or injury of cartilage and bone can cause you to break off your cartilage or bone and float in the spaces of your joint. This will not affect anything until the loose body interferes with the movement of your knee joint. The effect in this condition is as safe as a pencil stuck in the hinge of the door. - Iliotibial Band Syndrome
This occurs when your tissue’s tough bands extend to the outside of your knee or iliotibial band from outside the hip and become tight. They start to rub against the outer part of your femur. Cyclists and distance runners are more likely to develop iliotibial band syndrome. - Hip or Foot Pain
If you are suffering from foot or hip pain, your walking style may change to cope with the joint pain. However, this alteration will exert more pressure on your knees joint. In some of the cases, problems due to the foot or hip can cause knee pain. - Dislocated Kneecap
This happens when the patella, a triangular bone covering the front of the knee, slips off to one side. In many cases, the dislocation stays displaced and visible.
How Can a Physical Therapist Help You?
After consulting a surgeon about your condition, a physical therapist will tell you the extent of activities you should perform depending on the condition of your knee (for example, total knee replacement) you are suffering from. A physical therapist and surgeon might also involve you in physical therapy before surgery to increase your motion and strength. This may sometimes help you in recovering after surgery.
After the surgery, the physical therapist will design a rehabilitation program, especially for you, to quickly gain endurance, movement, and strength and return to your daily activities.
Call Top NYC Physical Therapists Activecare Physical Therapy ©
Contact Activecare PT at (212) 777-4374 to schedule an appointment. Visit our website for more details.
Activecare Physical Therapy ©
12 West 37th Street
Suite 1202
New York, NY 10018
(212) 777-4374
staff@bestptnyc.com