SVK Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation Services hub

12/05/2024

07/05/2024

Check out our quick new video on low back pain, causes and treatment options.

28/04/2024

Cerebral Palsy (CP) is the most common physical disability in childhood, impacting between 1.5 to over 4 out of every 1,000 live births or children within a certain age range worldwide. The condition affects movement and postural control in babies or young children due to brain damage. That’s why understanding its causes, signs, and treatment options is crucial to saving lives.

Causes and Diagnosis: CP occurs when there's non-progressive injury to the central nervous system within the first two (or sometimes five) years of life, resulting in movement and posture challenges.

Early Signs: Detecting CP early is crucial for initiating interventions that can improve outcomes. Look out for signs like delayed motor milestones, stiffness or limpness in movement, and difficulties with balance and coordination. Early detection can lead to timely interventions and better management of the condition.

Types of CP: CP can manifest in various forms, including spastic, dyskinetic, ataxic, or a combination of these. Each type presents unique challenges in movement and coordination, impacting a child's ability to perform daily activities.

Treatment: Managing CP requires a multidisciplinary approach involving professionals like Physiotherapists, Medical Practitioners, Occupational Therapists, and Speech Therapists. Physiotherapy aims to optimize movement potential through specialized exercises and stretches, while medication and surgery may be necessary to alleviate symptoms and correct physical issues. Occupational therapy focuses on nurturing independence in daily tasks, and speech therapy aims to unlock communication skills.

Understanding the facts about Cerebral Palsy can make a significant difference in the lives of affected children and their families. By spreading awareness and promoting early intervention, we can contribute to saving lives and empowering individuals with CP to live their best lives.

Follow us for more insights on various conditions, and talk to our admin for more information on our services.

27/04/2024

Did you know that 70% of people will experience neck pain at some point in their lives? Yep, you read that right! And recent stats show that neck pain is hitting hard, with 10% to 20% of us dealing with it right now. It's not just a physical discomfort; it's a financial headache too, ranking as the second-largest cause of workers' compensation claims in the US!

But why suffer in silence? Let's unwrap the mystery behind neck pain together. Here's what might be causing the commotion:

Wear and Tear (Cervical Spondylosis): Leading cause due to aging and previous injuries.
Sprains and Strains: Result from overuse or poor posture, leading to sharp pain and stiffness.
Disc Bulges and Herniations: Pressure on nerves from bulging or ruptured discs, causing pain, tingling, and weakness.
Fibromyalgia: Condition causing constant muscle pain, with neck pain being a significant symptom.
Autoimmune Disorders: Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis, causing inflammation and stiffness.

And the good news? There are treatment options galore! While medication can help manage symptoms, Physiotherapy takes center stage in both the short and long term. Our expert Physiotherapists provide tailored exercises and hands-on techniques to relieve pain, restore movement, and optimize physical function. Ready to kiss neck pain goodbye? Follow our page for expert advice, talk to our clinic's admin for a possible chat with a physiotherapist. Your neck will thank you later🙂!

25/04/2024

Did you know that a staggering 66.7% of people will wrestle with shoulder pain at some point? It's the third most common musculoskeletal problem out there!

But what's behind this discomfort? Let's take a peek:

Subacromial Pain Syndrome (SPS): Subacromial Pain Syndrome refers to discomfort in the space between your upper arm bone and shoulder blade. The main culprit? Troubled tendons, known as Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy. Treatment typically involves physiotherapy, medication, injections, or surgery if necessary.

Bursitis: Bursitis occurs when tiny fluid-filled sacs around your shoulder joint become inflamed. This inflammation can cause pain, especially during activities like lifting or reaching overhead. Treatment often includes rest, ice, medication, and physical therapy to alleviate symptoms.

Rotator Cuff Tears: Rotator Cuff Tears involve damage or tears in the muscles and tendons of the Rotator Cuff. These tears can occur gradually over time or suddenly from accidents. Treatment options range from surgical repair for extensive tears to non-surgical approaches like physical therapy and medication.

Osteoarthritis (OA): Osteoarthritis is the result of wear and tear on the surfaces of the shoulder joint. Treatment typically begins with non-surgical options such as physical therapy, medication, and injections. Surgery may be considered if symptoms persist.

Shoulder Dislocations and Fractures: Dislocations happen when the shoulder joint is forced out of its normal position, often due to trauma. Fractures can occur in various parts of the shoulder, including the collarbone, upper arm bone, or shoulder blade. Treatment involves reduction, rehabilitation through physiotherapy, and sometimes surgery for severe cases.

Nerve Disorders: Nerve disorders like cervical radiculopathy or Parsonage-Turner Syndrome can cause shoulder pain and dysfunction. Treatment focuses on addressing the underlying cause through physiotherapy and medication.

So, if you're nodding along, feeling that familiar twinge, fear not! Help is at hand. Stay tuned for more insights and tips on taming shoulder woes. Ready to bid adieu to that nagging ache? Click the call button to talk to our clinic admin. Relief is just a call away!

23/04/2024

Knee pain bothering you? Let's unpack it together! From sudden twinges to lingering discomfort, knee issues are super common and can really put a damper on your day. But fear not, understanding what's behind the pain is the first step towards relief!

Common Causes of Knee Pain:

Osteoarthritis (OA): Think of this as the heavyweight champ of knee discomfort. OA happens when the cushioning cartilage in your knee joint wears down over time, causing inflammation and pain. It's super common, affecting millions worldwide, especially as we age.

Sprains: Ever twisted your knee and felt a sharp pain? That could be a sprain, which involves injury to the ligaments holding your knee together. Depending on the severity, it can range from mild discomfort to serious instability.

Meniscal Injuries: Meet the unsung heroes of knee stability—your menisci! These rubbery structures between your thigh and shin bones can tear due to sudden twists or wear and tear over time, leading to pain and sometimes locking of the joint.

Tendinopathy: Active folks, listen up! Tendinopathy occurs when the tendons connecting your muscles to your bones get strained or overused. It's like your knee's way of saying, "Hey, slow down a bit!"

Patella Chondromalacia: Ever felt a nagging pain under your kneecap? That might be chondromalacia patellae, where the cartilage underneath your kneecap softens and wears away, usually due to excess stress.

Bursitis: Imagine little cushions between your knee structures—those are your bursae! When they get irritated, it's bursitis. Think of it as your knee's way of saying, "Hey, ease up on the kneeling!"

Stay tuned for more tips on how to tackle knee discomfort and get back to doing what you love pain-free! Don't forget to follow our page for regular updates and book an appointment if knee pain is cramping your style!

19/04/2024

Dealing with Stroke: Know the Facts, Save a Life!

Did you know that every year, a whopping 15 million people worldwide experience a stroke? It's staggering to think that out of these, 5 million don't make it, and another 5 million are left with life-changing disabilities. That's not just a health issue; it's a community challenge.

Strokes come in two main forms: ischemic, caused by a blockage in blood vessels inside the Brain, and hemorrhagic, caused by bleeding in the Brain. Early recognition and treatment are crucial for minimizing damage.

Acute Management{Right after the Stroke}

For ischemic strokes, breaking down or removing clots through medication and other procedures is key, while hemorrhagic strokes require halting bleeding. Other factors such as High Blood Pressure are also taken care of during this phase. The aim is to stabilize the patient in preparation for rehabilitation.

Rehabilitation Phase (Getting back to normal)

A team of professionals should be involved for the best possible treatment outcomes.

Physiotherapy: Helps regain movement and function post-stroke using various techniques and focusing on everyday tasks.

Occupational Therapy: Develops personalized programs, recommends adaptations for independence, and addresses mental, visual, and perceptual challenges.

Speech Therapy: Specializes in communication, voice, and swallowing difficulties, offering tailored approaches and caregiver training.

Orthotics: Designs custom-made devices, and collaborates for integrated treatment plans.

Psychologists: Offer personalized counseling and therapy to help individuals cope with the emotional impact of stroke, manage stress, and navigate changes in their lives, fostering resilience and promoting psychological healing.

Follow our page for more health tips or talk to our admin to book an appointment with a Physiotherapist today. Your health matters!

17/04/2024

Dealing with Sciatic Nerve Pain (Sciatica)

Ever felt that sharp pain shooting down your leg or those persistent tingling sensations? You might be dealing with Sciatica, a pesky condition caused by trouble along the Sciatic Nerve.

Let's dive into the main player here: the Sciatic Nerve. It's the largest nerve in your body, controlling various muscles and sensations in your legs and feet. But sometimes, a little kink in its journey can lead to those infamous sciatica symptoms.

From bulging discs in the spine to tight muscles along the nerve’s course, various culprits can trigger sciatica. But here's the good news: most cases can be managed without surgery.

Physiotherapy offers a guided path to healing. As an evidence-based approach, treatment includes exercises targeting the root cause, hands-on therapy, and modalities like TENS and heat therapy. Medication and surgery are considered in severe cases.

Follow our page for more tips on managing sciatica.

Book an appointment for a possible physiotherapy consultation.

Remember, relief is within reach. Don't let sciatica hold you back from living your best life!

11/04/2024

Tired of feeling like your back is holding you back? You're not alone! Did you know that a staggering 80% of people battle back pain at some point in their lives? But guess what? There's hope on the horizon, and it's called physiotherapy!

Back pain can stem from various causes, including poor posture, muscle strains, sprains, or even stress. Whether it's a dull ache or sharp twinges, ignoring back pain can lead to more serious issues down the road. That's where physiotherapy comes in!

Picture this: a personalized treatment plan designed just for you, targeting the root cause of your back pain. Through a dynamic combination of hands-on therapy, specialized exercises, and cutting-edge techniques, we're on a mission to kick that pain to the curb!

Ready to say goodbye to those nagging aches and hello to a life without limits? It all starts with one simple step: Join our community and book an appointment with us.

Together, let's rewrite the story of your back pain and pave the way for a brighter, pain-free future!

17/07/2023

Osgood Schlatter Disease

Osgood Schlatter Disease (OSD) is also known as osteochondrosis, tibial apophtsitis or traction apophysitis of the tibial tubercle.

Introduction:

The main complaint is usually pain that is located at the front part of the knee. It is most common in physically active children who are going through a growth spurt. This condition is caused by repetitive strain activities such as jumping, running or playing sports like basketball or football.

It usually develops during stages of bone maturation which are 10-12 years old in girls and 12-14 years old in boys. Repeated pulling on the muscles on the shin bone can cause inflammation, micro tears or fractures.

Clinical presentation and symptoms:

Pain at the front part of either one or both knees.
Pain that gets worse with activities such as running but gets better with rest.
Pain with palpation of the tibial tuberosity.
In some cases, a bony protuberance at the tibial tuberosity.
Painful resisted isometrics of the quadriceps muscle.

Diagnosis:

Careful history taking and physical examination.
An X-Ray may be useful to rule out other pathologies.

Physical Therapy Treatment:

It has 3 main goals:

1. Pain relief

Ice application after activity.
Gentle quadriceps and hamstrings stretch.
Patella taping or prescription of a protective knee brace.

2. Exercise therapy

Strengthening of the quadriceps and hamstrings muscles. Starting with low intensity exercises and then gradually increasing the load.

3. Activity limitation

It is advised that sports activities be limited for 6-8 weeks.
No need for total immobilisation. A patient may reduce activity and only work within pain limits.
Introduction of swimming.

If pain does not respond to conservative treatment then total knee immobilisation may be considered.

11/07/2023

Meralgia Paresthetica Physiotherapy

Meralgia paresthetica is a condition characterized by tingling, numbness, and pain in the outer part of the thigh. It occurs when the lateral femoral cutaneous nerve, which supplies sensation to this area, becomes compressed or irritated. Physiotherapy can be beneficial in managing the symptoms of meralgia paresthetica. Here are some ways physiotherapy may help:

Education and Advice: A physiotherapist can provide you with information about the condition, its causes, and aggravating factors. They can offer advice on modifying activities or postures that may worsen the symptoms and suggest strategies to alleviate discomfort.

Postural Correction: Poor posture can contribute to nerve compression in meralgia paresthetica. A physiotherapist can assess your posture and provide exercises and techniques to improve alignment and reduce strain on the affected nerve.

Stretching and Strengthening Exercises: Specific stretching exercises can help release tension and tightness in the muscles around the hip and thigh, reducing pressure on the nerve. Strengthening exercises for the hip and core muscles can improve stability and support proper alignment, reducing the risk of nerve compression.

Manual Therapy: Hands-on techniques, such as soft tissue mobilization and nerve gliding, may be employed by a physiotherapist to relieve tension and improve nerve mobility in the affected area.

Pain Management: Physiotherapists can use various modalities like heat, cold, ultrasound, or electrical stimulation to manage pain associated with meralgia paresthetica. They may also provide guidance on using ice or heat therapy at home.

Activity Modification: Your physiotherapist can guide you on modifying activities that may exacerbate your symptoms. They can help you find alternative ways to perform tasks or recommend assistive devices if necessary.

Book your space now if you are fighting this pain

29/06/2023

Chronic Pain and Physiotherapy:

Chronic pain can be defined as as pain that persists beyond normal tissue healing times. Typically, pain would function as a warning signal to the body but because chronic pain persists beyond normal healing times it does not serve that purpose. Usually pain is regarded as chronic when it lasts or recurs for more than 3 to 6 months. Chronic pain is a frequent condition, affecting an estimated 20% of people worldwide

According to a Chinese study, the most common pain locations were the back, hip, knee and foot.

The exact cause for chronic pain is disputed but some things that may influence it are psychological well-being, personality, mood, sleep patterns, activity level and social circumstances.

Common conditions that may cause chronic pain are multiple sclerosis, fibromyalgia and nerve injuries.

The consequences of chronic pain are vast, it is associated with reduced quality of life, increased medical expenses, high psychological burden and a high economic burden.

People with chronic pain experience limitations in daily functioning and are more likely to miss out on social activities. Studies show that people with chronic pain miss significantly more workdays that those without chronic pain.

Because chronic pain itself is so complex, treatment requires a holistic approach which includes but is not limited to pharmacotherapy, psychotherapy and physiotherapy.

In some studies, physiotherapy has been shown to be as effective as pharmacotherapy in the treatment of chronic pain.

Some of the physiotherapy techniques that can be used to mitigate chronic pain are manual therapy, exercise prescription, Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation, and pain coping education.

Core principles in developing a treatment plan are explaining the nature of the chronic pain condition, setting appropriate goals, and developing a comprehensive treatment approach and plan for adherence

Some pain coping strategies are diaphragmatic breathing and muscle relaxation.

25/06/2023

Carpal tunnel syndrome

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a condition that affects the wrist and hand. It occurs when the median nerve, which runs from the forearm to the hand through a narrow passage called the carpal tunnel, becomes compressed or irritated. This can result in symptoms such as pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness in the hand and fingers.

Physiotherapy can play a significant role in the management of carpal tunnel syndrome. A physiotherapist can help in several ways:

Assessment and Diagnosis: A physiotherapist can assess your condition by taking a detailed history and conducting a physical examination. They will evaluate your symptoms, range of motion, strength, and any contributing factors.

Pain Management: Physiotherapy can provide pain relief through various techniques such as manual therapy, soft tissue mobilization, and therapeutic modalities like heat or cold therapy. They may also recommend the use of splints or braces to immobilize and support the wrist.

Exercises and Stretching: A physiotherapist can prescribe specific exercises and stretching routines to improve the flexibility, strength, and stability of the wrist, hand, and forearm muscles. These exercises can help reduce symptoms and prevent further progression of the condition.

Ergonomic Advice: Physiotherapists can provide guidance on proper ergonomics and body mechanics for activities that may contribute to carpal tunnel syndrome, such as repetitive tasks or prolonged computer use. They can suggest modifications to your work or home environment to reduce strain on the wrist and minimize the risk of aggravating the condition.

Nerve Gliding Techniques: Physiotherapists may teach you nerve gliding exercises, which involve gentle movements of the wrist and fingers to improve the mobility and function of the median nerve within the carpal tunnel.

Education and Self-Management: Physiotherapists educate you about its causes, and strategies to manage and prevent it.

25/06/2023

KNEE ARTHRITIS AND PHYSIOTHERAPY

💥 Introducing: "Revive Your Knees: A Path to Freedom" 💥

Are you tired of struggling with knee arthritis, limiting your everyday activities and preventing you from doing the things you love? We hear you, and we're here to help!

🤝 Join us for a transformative journey where Svk clinic physiotherapists will guide you towards strengthening your knees and reclaiming your freedom of movement.

🌱 Discover what our program has to offer:
🏋️ Tailored exercises to improve joint flexibility and build strength
🌿 Specialized techniques to reduce pain and inflammation
💡 Personalized strategies for managing knee arthritis in your daily life
🧘 Therapeutic approaches to enhance balance and stability

🙌 Whether you're an athlete seeking to return to peak performance or someone who simply wants to move pain-free, our program is designed to meet your unique needs.

🔔 To secure your spot or learn more, drop us a comment below or send us a direct message. We can't wait to embark on this transformative journey with you!

👥 Share this post with your friends and family who might benefit from our program. Let's spread the word and help more people break free from knee arthritis!

💡 Remember, it's never too late to take the first step towards a pain-free future. Together, let's revive your knees and regain the freedom you deserve! 💪

22/06/2023

FROZEN SHOULDER (also known as Adhesive Capsulitis)

Much like its name, frozen shoulder is characterized by a stiff shoulder that is extremely painful to move. It is most common in middle-aged women with diabetes but it can also occur after long periods of immobility, say after using a shoulder sling for a long time, or due to other conditions such as stroke or a rotator cuff injury.

It is thought that frozen shoulder is caused by thickening of the joint capsule which causes pain and restriction of shoulder movements, especially those that require you to put your arm behind your back. These symptoms may persist for up to three years.

Frozen shoulder has three typical stages:

1. Freezing stage: People experience pain with shoulder movements and the shoulder begins to feel stiff.

2. Frozen stage: In this stage, the shoulder becomes even more stiff and difficult to move, Pain might lessen during this stage.

3. Thawing stage: During this stage, the shoulder may start to become easier to move.

A diagnosis of frozen shoulder can be made from the patient’s history and physical examination of the shoulder. From the history, patients would typically report a sharp, burning type of pain around the shoulder joint with movement. The physical examination includes an assessment of the joint’s range of motion, and other special tests to rule out other shoulder pathologies.

Treatment for frozen shoulder takes into consideration the patient’s presenting complaints, the stage of frozen shoulder that they are in as well as the severity of pain that they are experiencing. Several physiotherapy modalities such as ice/heat therapy, electrotherapy and exercise therapy are effective for pain reduction as well as increasing functionality of the affected arm.

Please feel free to ask questions in the comments section.

16/06/2023

Plantar fasciitis is a common condition that affects the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot and connects the heel bone to the toes. The plantar fascia supports the arch of the foot and helps with walking and standing.

Plantar fasciitis occurs when the plantar fascia becomes inflamed or irritated. This can happen due to repetitive strain or overuse of the foot, or from a sudden injury or trauma. People who are overweight, have flat feet, or who stand or walk for long periods of time are at increased risk of developing plantar fasciitis.

The most common symptom of plantar fasciitis is heel pain, which may be sharp or dull and may be worse in the morning or after periods of inactivity. The pain may also be worse after exercise or activity. Other symptoms can include stiffness or tightness in the foot, swelling, or a sensation of a lump or bump under the heel.
Book physiotherapy consultation if struggling with such kind of pain

14/06/2023

Sciatica

Have you, or anyone you know been experiencing back pain that shoots down your leg? If so, a possible cause of this can be inflammation of the sciatic nerve, which is the longest nerve in the whole body.

Other symptoms of sciatica may include weakness of the affected leg, pain after long periods of standing, tingling or burning sensations down the leg. These symptoms may cause you to miss out of activities that you previously enjoyed and take days off work.

Physiotherapy can help to decrease or eliminate these symptoms and increase your overall quality of life. Exercises are tailored to each individual’s needs but typically involve stretching, strengthening of the muscles of the leg and flexion of the spine.

09/06/2023

Re**us Diastasis

Re**us diastasis, also known as diastasis recti, is a separation of the re**us abdominis muscles, which are the muscles that run vertically down the front of the abdomen. This separation occurs when the connective tissue between the two muscles stretches and weakens, allowing the muscles to separate.

Re**us diastasis is most commonly seen in pregnant women, as the growing uterus puts pressure on the abdominal muscles and stretches the connective tissue. However, it can also occur in men and women who are not pregnant, particularly those who have had significant weight gain or loss.

Symptoms of re**us diastasis may include a bulge or protrusion in the abdomen, particularly when the person is standing or straining. It may also cause lower back pain, poor posture, and difficulty with certain exercises or activities.

Treatment for re**us diastasis typically involves physical therapy or targeted exercises to strengthen the abdominal muscles and improve the function of the connective tissue. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to repair the separation.