Camelview Physical Therapy

08/25/2023

93 and she’s still got it!

10/31/2022

Having fun on Halloween and Paula's birthday!

10/31/2021

Having a little fun on Friday before Halloween...

07/30/2020

Congratulations to Dr. Linda Johnston. She completed a rigorous 2 year program and graduated from the doctoral program Summa Cum Laude. We applaud all your hard work, Dr. Linda!

11/10/2018

It affects up to 35% of athletes who run and jump, such as distance runners, sprinters, basketball or tennis players, gymnasts, military personnel, dancers, and other active people. http://bit.ly/2NP1f6h

10/19/2018

06/27/2018

Gender and posture—not screen time—are the most significant risk factors in the development of “iPad neck” and shoulder pain, according to a study published recently in The Journal of Physical Therapy Science.

“iPad neck,” also known as “tablet neck,” is described as persistent pain in the neck and upper shoulders caused by slouching or bending into extreme positions while using tablet computers, such as on the beach or on the ground, slumping over the tablet while it rests in the user’s lap, or using the tablet while lying on the side or back.

According to the study, the condition is more prevalent among young adults than older adults. It is especially prevalent among young women. Given the growing popularity of tablet computers, e-book readers, and other connected devices for personal, school, and business purposes, it is a concern.

The most frequently reported symptoms were stiffness, soreness, or aching pain in the neck, upper back/shoulder, arms/hands, or head. Most (55%) reported moderate discomfort, but 10% said their symptoms were severe and 15% said it affected their sleep, the release explains.

Postures that led to pain included those that cause the tablet user to “slump” over and gaze downward. Only 46% of respondents said they’d stop using the device when experiencing discomfort.

Regarding gender differences, 70% of female respondents reported experiencing symptoms compared to just under 30% of men. Interestingly, women were also more likely (77%) to use their tablets while sitting on the floor than men (23%), the release continues.

Tips to prevent IPad Neck: Sit in a chair with back support, use a posture reminder device, place the iPad on a stand rather than on a flat surface and attach a keyboard in order to achieve a more upright posture while using the tablet, and exercise to strengthen one’s neck and shoulder muscles.

06/27/2018

06/14/2018

This versatile piece of equipment not only can help lengthen muscles before and/or after exercise, it can also relax and soothe aching muscles.

Foam rollers are designed to break up adhesions that form in muscles or tendons, as well as loosen trigger points (muscle “knots”). Your body weight is what helps the roller target specific muscle areas.

The rolling motion loosens, relaxes, and lengthens muscles in much the same way as a kneading massage does. Rolling is generally not as intense or targeted as a deep-tissue massage, but that can depend on how much pressure your trigger point is willing to endure.

If you already have a roller, you likely have a love/hate relationship with them. The rolling process can be uncomfortable, and the body positions needed to utilize them correctly can be awkward. But you’ll ultimately feel the benefits.

Here are some basic facts about foam rollers:

Choosing a foam roller: Foam rollers come in a variety of lengths, widths, and densities. Choosing the right type of roller can help maximize the effects and reduce discomfort, so it’s important to try a few out before deciding which one to purchase.

Density: Besides correct utilization of the foam roller, density is a prime factor in how effective a roller is at trigger-point release. Low-density rollers provide less intense pressure, meaning they provide a more comfortable rolling experience but give a tighter stretch. Medium-density rollers provide more pressure because they are less flexible. High-density rollers provide the most pressure, but give muscles the fullest stretch.

Size: Long rollers (36 inches) are versatile and a good choice for your first foam roller. They provide more stability than shorter rollers, and are more effective when used on larger muscles such as quads or hamstrings. Shorter lengths (12 to 18 inches) work best on calves and other smaller muscles, and are the perfect size for travel.

Diameter: The majority of foam rollers are 6 inches in diameter, making it easier to comfortably roll your body onto it and then keep the rolling motion under control.

While most rollers are smooth (and best for new users), some come with surface texture which intensify the pressure on targeted areas. New to the market are vibrating foam rollers. The added sensation of the vibration distracts your muscles from the uncomfortable pressure of the roller, which lessens the sensation of pain. This type of roller has also been shown to increase range of movement after only a few uses.

Foam rollers may look like something you see in a swimming pool, but if utilized correctly, they can offer a lot of long-term benefits. They reduce stress, improve posture, decrease muscle soreness, and generally make you feel more mobile, which are all important components of injury prevention and overall good health.

06/06/2018

5 common myths about back pain...

Back pain is common. At some point in their lives, 80% to 90% of the adult population will experience low back pain.

Unfortunately, studies show that many people with low back pain don't get treatment that aligns with best evidence-based practices.

Here are 5 common myths associated with low back pain:

Myth 1: Spinal manipulation (mobilizing the joints in the spine) is the best method for treating low back pain.

A study showed that exercise was proven to be more effective than manipulation (only 10% required manipulation).

Myth 2: Ultrasound and electrical stimulation are proven to aid recovery from low back pain.

These types of passive treatments provide no long-term benefit, do not treat the underlying problem, and do not accelerate healing time.

Myth 3: Back pain is caused by inflammation.

Inflammation does occur in certain conditions, and may be present when low back pain is acute; however, the majority of low back pain is mechanical and can respond positively to mechanical treatments (eg, stretching, prescribed exercise, aerobic exercise, stabilization, posture education).

Myth 4: Back pain is caused by arthritis.

While studies show that over 90% of those between the ages 50-55, 90% of those people do not have pain. Arthritis can be a normal part of the aging process, and is not always associated with pain.

Myth 5: You should rest and avoid or stop activity if you are experiencing low back pain.

It is recommended to exercise and get active and mobile as soon as possible.