During physiotherapy month we highlighted some key concepts of a physiotherapist in rehabilitation.
1) Stress and Injuries
2) Who can benefit from physiotherapy
3) Maintenance and Performance
So we know that physiotherapy is important in the process of rehabilitation, maintenance/progression, and prevention, but what does that process look like exactly?
Today we wanted to highlight in further detail 4 tools we use to assist a client in getting to their destination.
Selective Functional Movement Assessment (SFMA):
The SFMA is an effective assessment tool comprised of 10 global body movement tests that helps us narrow down where the potential causes of the symptoms are. By initially taking a global look at the body, the assessment is more efficient and allows for greater focus on restoration of the body.
For example, the squatting pattern can tell several details:
- Ankle range of motion (ROM)
- Dynamic control of the lower body
- Glute (hip) vs quad (knee) dominance
- Spinal range of motion
- Shoulder flexibility
Utilizing a test like the squat pattern will highlight which portions of the body may need attention in order to improve the efficiency of the human body.
Proprioceptive Deep Tendon Reflex (P-DTR)
PDTR is a neurological based approach that helps figure out the root “why”. Why did an injury happen? Why is the pain, loss of motion/strength, stiffness or tingling/numbness persistent even months after the initial onset.
Before an action occurs, the body senses information from the outside environment and the body. With this information, the brain dictates an appropriate motor response. If a stressor occurs that is too much for the body to handle, the body can have heightened sensitivity leading to sub-optimal motor responses. PDTR utilizes different sensations to assist the body in correcting the heightened sensitivities to allow for improved motor responses. This can lead to reduced pain, improved strength/motion, and better performance.
Game Ready Pro
Game Ready Pro is an innovative device that combines continuous cold and intermittent pneumatic compression to assist with reduction in pain, swelling and muscle spasms. It is typically indicated for individuals who have recently had joint replacements or recovery for athletes.
With the assistance of Game-Ready Pro, the duration and amount of medication required can be reduced. This is a great aid for individuals who cannot handle too much medication consumption. As well with the effects of reduced pain and swelling, this will help speed up the recovery timeline and allow for quicker return to sport and daily function.
Acupuncture:
Acupuncture is a gentle approach that accelerates the body’s ability to heal. Insertion of the needles at specific points of the body stimulate the nerves and connective tissue which can lead to:
- Reduced pain
- Reduced muscle tension/trigger points
- Reduced headaches
- Increased blood flow to areas of injury
- Improved activation of muscles
Acupuncture is also useful for individuals who are highly sensitive to touch. Whether the cause be acute or chronic, acupuncture may be able to assist with reduction in symptoms to allow for greater ease of movement and hands on manual therapy.
We believe each individual is unique and requires an approach that is specific to them. This is why we have multiple tools and strategies to assist with locating and treating the source of symptoms. As a result, this allows for a quicker return to sport and activities of daily living.
Author: Zachary Hum
