Low Bone Mass
Osteopenia, also called Low Bone Mass, causes a person’s bones to become thin and weak which increases the risk of breaking something.
- 44 million adults in the United States have osteopenia and it’s also very common in the United States.
- It is also referred to as a silent disease because you can’t feel your bones becoming thinner or weaker.
Broken bones caused by osteoporosis or low bone mass are most likely to occur in the hip, spine, pelvis, upper arms, and wrist, but also other bones.
- Low bone mass can occur at any age; most people reach their peak bone mass by age 30.
- Bone mass stays relatively steady for the next 20 years.
- After a woman reaches menopause, usually around age 50 bone mass is lost faster than it’s created, which leads to weakening of the bones.
- Family history partly determine what your peak bone mass will be,
- Healthy lifestyles choices will help you reach the greatest peak bone mass possible for the person.
Some cause from low bone mass can include:
- Advanced age
- Female gender
- Low body weight or thin
- Recent weight loss
- History of fractures
- Family history
- Tobacco use
- Alcohol abuse
- Lack of exercise
- Eating disorders such as anorexia or bulimia
Island Sports Physical Therapy helps with a low bone mass that treats patients with osteoporosis or risk of developing osteoporosis.
The idea of physical therapy is to teach safe ways of moving, lifting, and provide exercises that the patient can do at home. This will help prevent the decline in bone mass and prevent future fractures. Physical therapy also suggests exercising for flexibility to help decrease the stress placed on the bones. Island Sports Physical Therapy is known for its hard work and hands-on care with its patients. The goal is to have patients recover and prevent future injuries.
Physical Therapy in Glen Cove
When an injury occurs that requires the treatment of a physical therapist, there is almost always some loss of movement or motion in the affected area. A range of motion or complete loss of movement could stem from a number of injuries or conditions. A fractured bone or rehabilitation after surgery, for instance, will require weeks of rest where the muscles aren’t used at all. Your range of motion and muscle strength will be severely diminished and will need to be slowly retained through stretching techniques.
Stretching and good flexibility is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle as you get older. At this stage in life, your joints and muscles become stiff from either not being used or wear and tear, which could make everyday activities difficult to complete. If you have trouble standing, walking, or moving, stretching and strengthening exercises will increase your ability to move comfortably. This will also increase your balance and decrease your risk of falling and causing further injury.
Exercise is also an important part of a healthy lifestyle for both young and old patients. It helps to keep weight down, decrease your risk for disease, boost your energy throughout the day, and decrease stress, but stretching before and after ensures your muscles and tendons aren’t injured. Stretching lengthens the muscle fibers that attach to the bone and gives the muscle the potential to become stronger. Physical therapists can target specific muscle groups that feel tight or in pain, and help you slowly increase your flexibility so you can return to exercise safely.
Whether you’re recovering from an injury or just looking to increase your flexibility, Island Sports Physical Therapy offers state of the art stretching techniques to return your range of motion. We have six simple locations in Glen Cove, Huntington, East Meadow, Coram, Nesconset, and East Northport. Contact us to learn about our fitness program that aims to keep your body healthy by enhancing muscle strength and flexibility. We look forward to hearing from you!
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Physical Therapy in Huntington
A sports hernia is the strain or tear of soft tissue (muscle, tendon, ligament) anywhere in the lower abdomen or groin area. It’s most commonly caused when an athlete makes a sudden change in direction or plants their feet and intensely twists the body. The oblique muscles in the lower abdomen are the most frequently affected soft tissue when a sports hernia occurs. The more physically demanding sports such as ice hockey, wrestling, soccer, and football will cause the most sports hernias.
There are several symptoms a person suffering from a sports hernia may experience including immediate and intense groin pain at the time of injury, sensitivity or bruising in the upper thigh and/or abdomen, and pain accompanied by twisting movements. After rest, the groin pain may subside but resurfaces during sports activity or physical exertion. Sports hernias have the same symptoms as other types of groin injuries, making an accurate diagnosis difficult sometimes. In some cases, athletes aren’t aware they have a sports hernia since the only symptoms they experience is chronic groin pain. If you have consistent pain in your lower abdomen, see a doctor immediately. A healthcare professional will give you a proper physical exam and a diagnostic imaging scan to determine if you have a sports hernia.
If you’re diagnosed with a sports hernia, physical therapy in Huntington may be recommended for treatment after about 2-3 weeks of rest. Therapy is different for everyone, but it usually takes 4-6 weeks to complete. Treatment focuses on stretching the lower abdominal, lower extremity muscles. In addition, core strengthening exercises will often be part of therapy. A weak core increases the probability of a sports hernia during physical activity. If physical therapy is ineffective, surgery will be recommended. After a week of rest following the operation, postoperative physical therapy treatment begins. When the pain is gone, patients undergo abdominal stretching and core strengthening.
If you’re suffering from a sports hernia on Long Island, contact us with any questions or to make an appointment. Island Sports Physical Therapy in Huntington will help build a rehabilitation program that fits your needs and lifestyle and help you get back on the field as quickly as possible.
Cycling Injuries
Spring has officially sprung! And just as the just as the nice weather has pushed the leaves to rise out of their buds, so too has it pushed you and me to rise out of our beds to enjoy all it has to offer. One of the most popular springtime activities, of course, is bicycle riding. Bike riding has garnered a reputation over the years as being something that people can enjoy both recreationally and competitively. While many of us may take bike riding for granted, it is always important for us to be reminded of the cycling injuries related to such an involving activity, and how to best prevent or treat them.
Always wear a helmet! Cycling-related accidents account for approximately 900 deaths per year. The majority of these deaths are the result of head trauma following a crash, fall, or collision of some kind. Experts suggest that wearing a helmet while cycling can reduce the risk of head trauma by eighty-five percent. Bicycle helmets can usually be purchased at low costs and in a variety of styles, so there is no reason to ever put yourself at an increased risk of head trauma while enjoying a lovely spring day by not wearing one.
While head trauma following a cycling accident may be the most immediately serious of all potential injuries, it is not the only type to be aware of. Statistics show that most fatal injuries are sustained by cyclists between the ages of 15 and 19, as well as cyclists near 40 years of age and older. So where does that leave the rest of us? Avid cyclists who enjoy long rides often find themselves suffering from “overuse” injuries- most commonly knee, back, and neck pain. These types of injuries can be prevented by wearing well-fitting shoes with supportive padding, pre-ride stretches, and regular bike maintenance to make sure that everything fits your body comfortably. Other overuse injuries include forearm and wrist pain, urogenital and buttox discomfort, and foot numbness; all of which can be taken care of with a mid-ride position change.
Here at Island Sports Physical Therapy, we specialize in treating neck and back pain through spinal rehabilitation, as well as in treating sport-specific injuries with workout plans. Whether you have already suffered from cycling injuries, or would like some preventative treatment to ensure that you will be the best cyclist you can possibly be, make sure to schedule your appointment today.
Traumatic brain injuries are on the rise due to falls in older adults
Traumatic brain injuries occur when an injury to the head disrupts brain function. These injuries are often very serious and can result in extensive physical and cognitive damage. Traumatic brain injuries affect an estimated 1.7 million people in the US annually and can range from mild to severe in their effects on brain functioning. While these injuries occur in a variety of ways, reports of traumatic brain injuries are on the rise in older adults with falls being the leading cause. It is important for older adults to be aware of risk factors for falls, and to be able to recognize the symptoms of traumatic brain injury.
Of course, anyone can fall as a result of a typical accident, regardless of age. But often, older adults develop conditions that put them at a higher risk for falls, which can result in a traumatic brain injury. Some factors include foot, vision, or sensory problems. Blood pressure conditions, such as hypotension, can also cause dizziness and contribute to instability. Additionally, side effects from medication and age-related issues such as slowed reflexes, poor balance, or muscle weakness can increase your chance of falling. Because traumatic brain injuries are on the rise due to falls in older adults, it is key to be aware of these risks to successfully avoid such an injury.
Symptoms of traumatic brain injury can be physical and/or cognitive with varying levels of severity. In some cases, the associated complications may not occur immediately after the injury. Mild physical symptoms can include: changes in sleep pattern, fatigue, headache, nausea/vomiting, dizziness, sensory changes (taste, auditory, smell, etc.), confusion, and temporary unconsciousness- sometimes lasting up to several minutes. More severe physical symptoms can include persistent, worsening headache, numbness in fingers or toes, seizures, persistent vomiting/nausea, unconsciousness (lasting up to several hours), and pupil dilation. Mild cognitive symptoms include depression and/or anxiety, changes in mood, or concentration and memory problems, while more severe symptoms include slurred speech, strange behavior, and significant confusion.
Because traumatic brain injuries are on the rise due to falls in older adults, awareness of risk factors for falling, and acknowledgment of traumatic brain injury symptoms is crucial. If you have experienced a head injury as a result of a fall or other accident, the experts at Island Sports Physical Therapy in East Meadow can help you recover. Don’t put off something that may carry serious health consequences! Contact us today to receive the compassionate, quality care that you deserve.
Physical Therapy in East Meadow
The elbow is not a simple joint. Like the shoulder, it is fairly complex, allowing us to perform a wide range of motions with our arms. However, because it is so diverse in movements, that leaves it open for different types of injuries and pain. The elbow is made up of three major bone structures including the upper arm bone or humerus and the two bones that make up the forearm- the ulna, and radius. At the end of each of these bones, there is cartilage that helps aid the quick and smooth movement of the elbow. Cartilage also helps absorb shock or injury from a fall or hit. The cartilage is supported by even stronger tissues called ligaments which are attached to your arm muscles by tendons. All of these pieces making up the whole system work in unison to grant the elbow flexibility.
The entire joint system is surrounded by nerves, so if anything happens to one part of it, it can cause a lot of pain throughout. The most common injuries that occur in the elbow are dislocation, fracture, strains, and sprains. Strains are the most easily inflicted and, luckily, are the least painful. These occur when you lift something that is a bit too heavy or overuses the elbow with vigorous movements found in such activities like sports or dancing. Sprains are more likely to affect athletes who perform throwing motions for items such as balls or racquets.
Ways to avoid these injuries- or elbow pain in general- would be to do a lot of strength training and stretching. Strength training prepares you for lifting or throwing any kind of weighted object. When it comes to being prepared for movement without pain, the best people to discuss your joints with are physical therapists. At Island Sports Physical Therapy in East Meadow, we offer sports and movement training to help athletes avoid elbow pain or serious injury. Our dedicated staff understands that everyone is different and takes the time to accurately evaluate each patient to develop the best possible course for recovery. ISPT has offices in East Northport, Huntington, Nesconset, Glen Cove, and East Meadow to better serve the residents of Long Island for all their physical therapy needs. Give one of our offices a call today!
Physical Therapy and Joints
Are you having trouble learning how to manage your acute or chronic joint pain? You are not alone. According to a 2015 study published by the National Health Institute, over 11% of the American adult population suffers from some sort of persistent pain on a daily basis. The first step in managing your joint pain is to understand its causes and symptoms. Joint pain is the pain, discomfort, or inflammation that arises from inside the affected joint(s) as a result of either a chronic pain condition- such as rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, gout, etc.- or from an incidental sprain or strain.
There are several treatment options available to you for the relief of your joint pain. You may want to start by trying the over-the-counter medications available at your local pharmacy including options such as Aspirin, Advil, and Aleve. If your level of pain remains consistent after regularly taking these types of medication, it may be time to consult a physician.
If you find that previous treatments have been helpful in lessening your joint pain, but would then like to enhance your rehabilitation with the help of licensed physical therapy professionals, Island Sports Physical Therapy in Nesconset is here for you. Island Sports Physical Therapy has spent the last thirty years developing a hands-on approach to treat any sort of orthopedic or neurological condition and relies on competence, compassion, and good old-fashion hard work to achieve it. Each of our five Long Island locations is fully equipped with a staff of highly qualified physical therapists who will tailor an exercise plan specific to you that will help you reach your goal in combatting joint pain.
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These plans normally include exercises designed to strengthen the muscles around the affected joint(s), as well as the muscles in other parts of your body that assist the joint in moving properly. For example, if you suffer from chronic knee pain, your physical therapy will include hip and back exercises such as squatting. Our locations specialize in joint replacement, spinal rehabilitation, sports rehabilitation and training, pediatric care, and more. So, whether you want to get back to work, back on the field, or just get through your day with as little joint pain as possible, Island Sports Physical Therapy in Nesconset is here to help!
Concussion Complications and Physical Therapy
Concussions are a tricky injury. With all the media coverage on the technology and science behind the research, concussions are still complex enough to hinder long-term injury solutions in the medical professional world. Concussions are head injuries that can cause traumatic brain damage and have the ability to ultimately change the chemical balance of the brain overall. These dangers explain why concussions are considered to be one of the most serious injuries to the human body by any medical provider.
Concussions occur when the brain is violently shaken and possibly bruised. This sudden motion can occur from whiplash including a blow to the upper body or head itself. The sudden tremor of the brain can affect it in different and unpredictable ways. Since the brain is the command center that controls the rest of the body, any injury it sustains can greatly negatively affect other areas as well, depending on how bad it is. It can immediately cause slow reflexes, coordination issues, and nausea. Long-term symptoms include weight gain, loss of libido, muscle spasticity, and early onset of dementia. People from all walks of life are at risk of falling or hitting their head on something. Whether it’s a baby who just learned how to sit up, or a senior citizen walking on the sidewalk, a fall can happen to any person, at any age, at any time.
At Island Sports Physical Therapy in Nesconset, we provide services for everyone’s pain management, no matter the cause. Our offices in Huntington, Nesconset, East Northport, Coram, East Meadow, and Glen Cove all help clients across Long Island in dealing with the pains that stem from suffering a concussion. Following the trauma, many people suffer from not having balance, dizziness, and vertigo- all ailments that our team of physical therapists is equipped to help patients deal with. If you think you recently experienced a head injury and are suffering from a concussion-like symptom, contact us to make an appointment today.
Knee Conditions
Most people will experience knee pain at some point in their lives. Knee pain can be caused by a variety of activities and issues. Your knee is made up of important structures that can get damaged or injured. Common knee injuries include fractures, dislocations, sprains, and tears. Some knee conditions should be taken seriously and may require special treatment or surgery. If you are looking to rehabilitate, our staff at Island Sports Physical Therapy in Glen Cove can provide the best care and treatment for your knee.
Knee problems can be diagnosed by physical examination and x-rays. The most common signs of knee injuries are pain and swelling. Knee pain can also be a cause of diseases such as osteoarthritis, tendinitis, and bursitis. They all cause inflammation in the knee and cartilage which makes it difficult to walk. Fractures and dislocations in the knee should seek immediate medical attention. Fractures in the knee include the kneecap, thighbone, and shinbone. This can occur from falls and collisions. When the knee is dislocated, the femur, tibia, and/or patella can be forced out of place. Dislocations occur from sports, falls, and accidents.
Tears that occur in the knee involve ligaments, meniscus, and tendons. The most common ligaments injured are the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and the medial collateral ligament (MCL). The ACL is often injured in sports and mostly occurs when you land improperly. ACL tears can take anywhere from a few months to a year to fully heal. MCL tears often happen in sports as well and occur when the knee takes a hard hit. MCL tears take anywhere from a couple of weeks to a month to heal. Meniscus tears are common among athletes. They can occur when the knee makes a sudden or improper movement. Some can be treated with ice to reduce swelling. In more severe cases, arthroscopic surgery may be required.
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Your knee has many components, making it more prone to injury. If you are suffering from a knee condition, it is important to receive the right treatment. Our physical therapists at ISPT will help rehabilitate and re-strengthen your knee. Call ISPT now to make an appointment.
What Is Biceps Tendonitis?
Biceps tendonitis is the inflammation of the upper bicep tendon which connects the bicep muscle to the bones in the shoulder. Often caused by overuse, repetitive motions from manual labor or sports activities can damage cells in the shoulder and lead to tendonitis. When cells get damaged, continued use doesn’t give them the opportunity to regenerate and can slowly deteriorate the tendons, resulting in biceps tendonitis. The biceps can also tear immediately from a sudden injury like a fall directly on the top of the shoulder. Should you suffer from this condition, be sure to contact Island Sports Physical Therapy to get the biceps tendonitis physical therapy you need.
Symptoms:
Other shoulder problems such as rotator cuff tears, shoulder impingement, and shoulder instability can all attribute to bicep tendonitis. Pain experienced in the front of the shoulder and a feeling of weakness are the most common symptoms of biceps tendonitis. Other symptoms that could be the result of biceps tendonitis are:
- An audible pop or snap
- Cramping of the bicep muscles
- Bruising from the upper arm to the elbow
- Difficulty turning the palm up or down
If you have any discomfort in your shoulder or experience with any of the above symptoms, you should seek out biceps tendonitis physical therapy to get a proper diagnosis and prevent any further injury.
When diagnosed, immediate treatment for biceps tendonitis includes resting, avoiding the activity that caused the injury, and taking over-the-counter drugs to ease the pain such as Advil or Ibuprofen. In many cases, doctors will recommend working with a physical therapist to return the biceps to full strength. Therapists will work with patients to evaluate how they performed the activity that caused the injury to reduce overuse and the risks of future injury.
Contact Us For Biceps Tendonitis Physical Therapy
If you’re in need of biceps tendonitis physical therapy treatment on Long Island, Island Sports Physical Therapy combines the best techniques with education to ensure you get better while preventing future injury. Island Sports has several locations on Long Island, making it readily accessible no matter where you reside.