What is Dry Needling

What is Dry Needling - #dryneedling - November 9, 2015

Dry Needling

At Archview Physiotherapy our chartered physiotherapists are expertly trained in dry needling for the treatment of muscle problems & headaches. Dry needling can be used for the treatment of painful conditions and sports injuries.

What?

Dry Needling is an effective deep muscle release therapy which relaxes knots in muscle tissue that can cause muscle pain, dysfunction, weakness and tightness. Dry needling involves gently inserting a sterile single use Acupuncture needle directly into muscle trigger points. Dry needling helps the muscle relax.

Where do you get Trigger Points and Myofascial Pain?

Anywhere! Common causes of persistent headache are muscles around the shoulders and neck. Trigger points that build up due to poor posture and long periods of sitting at a desk are a very common cause of shoulder pain. Trigger points and myofascial pain in the spine can cause back pain, while in the buttock it can cause hip and leg pain.

What does it feel like?

Generally, the needle insertion is not felt, the local twitch response may provoke a very brief somewhat painful response. The “twitch” resets the muscle and nerve supply, increasing the blood flow to the area which helps to relax the muscle. This is the first step to breaking the pain cycle and releasing tight trigger points.

Side effects/ Effectiveness?

After dry needling treatment, the area that is treated will feel much softer and relaxed and the person will feel looser. Post-treatment some discomfort may be felt in the area and referral zone lasting anywhere between 1-48 hours. Once this has subsided there should be an improvement in symptoms. You may be advised to use heat over the sore area and may need to modify exercise for a day afterwards. Multiple sessions may be necessary to resolve the symptoms fully.

What can be treated with Dry Needling?

Back and neck pain, including postural problems and tension
Headaches
Neck
Shoulder & Arm pain (frozen shoulder, impingements, tennis or golfer’s elbow)
Carpal Tunnel
Pelvic girdle pain
Gluteal & Leg pain (Sciatica)
Hamstring strains
Knee/Shin pain
Calf tightness & Cramps
Repetitive Strain Injuries

Contraindications to dry-needling? There are very few reasons why a person is not suitable for dry needling, these include obesity and pregnancy. If you are taking anticoagulant medicines (eg. Warfarin) or if you have skin infections near the trigger points, then needling shouldn’t be used.

Additional benefits!

Frequently people find it can also result in better energy levels, appetite and sleep, along with an enhanced sense of overall wellbeing.

Therapist applying dry needling technique

Archview Physiotherapy Clinic Ranelagh, Physiotherapy, Ranelagh, Massage, Dry Needling, Sports Therapy, Dublin 6, Sports injury, Dry needling

Ankle Injuries

Ankle injuries commonly occur during sports, work or daily life. The ankle joint is made up or three bones; tibia, fibula and the talus. The tibia and fibula create an arch around the talus, and is held together by 6 main ligaments. Numerous tendons from muscles move the ankle up, down, in and out. The most common injuries to these structures are:

Ankle Sprains

A sprain occurs when a ligament is stretched beyond its normal limits and tears, resulting in pain, swelling and decreased movement and strength. Most commonly ligament injuries occur when you roll your ankle when the foot is either flat on the ground, or when the toes are pointing down.

Tendinopathies

Occur mainly due to repetitive movements, which place too much stress on the muscle and its tendon. This leads to a poor quality repair by the body, which slowly deteriorates further with increased stress. Tendinopathies generally occur in the Achilles’ and Tibialis Posterior tendons in ankle. These can be characterised as having pain with movement that disappears after a few minutes, and cracking feeling along the tendon and pain with stretching the muscle.

Fractures

The most common area for the ankle to fracture is the ends of the shin bones close to the ankle. These areas are called the malleoli. The ankle usually fracture when a high force is placed through it that makes the ankle roll in/out, twists or gets pushed into the extremes of flexion or extension. The heel bone can also be fractured if a person jumps from a high and lands of the heel, or even during some car accidents.

As there are many different injuries in the ankle, all of which have very general symptoms, if is best to have your ankle pain checked by your physiotherapist. This will allow them to rule out any serious injuries, provide you with a correct diagnosis, treatment plan and resolve your issues.

Physiotherapy after knee replacement

Physiotherapy after Knee Replacement - kneereplacement - November 5, 2015

Physiotherapy after knee replacement

A total knee replacement is an extremely common orthopaedic procedure. Normally knee replacements are performed on individuals who have a history of pain in the knee due to wear and tear in the knee joint. Your knee is a hinge joint, consisting of your femur (thigh bone), tibia (shin bone) and your patella (knee cap). Due to everyday life, we develop wear and tear in our knees. If the knee becomes quite painful due to wear and tear, it may be possible that you might have to get a knee replacement.

What happens during a knee replacement?

During a knee replacement, the ends of your femur (thigh bone) and the tibia (shin bone) are removed. Sometimes, the underside of the patella (knee cap) will also be removed. The new knee will consist of a metal shell on the end of the femur and a metal and plastic cover on the tibia. These new artificial parts are sometimes held in place with special cement.

After surgery, there is a lot of work to do to increase the strength, control and stability around the knee joint. As the knee was probably painful for some time, the muscles around the knee will be weak and tight. In order to get you back on your feet, a rehabilitation program consisting of exercises and hands on techniques will be devised in order to get you back to normal.

If you are about to have a knee replacement or have any questions about a knee replacement procedure, please do not hesitate to get in contact with us.

Pregnancy related sciatica pain

If you are suffering from sciatica during pregnancy, you are certainly not alone.

WHAT IS SCIATICA?

The sciatic nerve starts in the lower back, runs down the buttocks and branches down the back of the legs to the ankles and feet. It allows you to move muscles in your legs as well as supplying sensation. In most cases sciatica happens when the sciatic nerve gets compressed by bulging, slipped or ruptured discs, arthritis, or by a narrowing of the spinal cord (spinal stenosis).

CAUSES IT DURING PREGNANCY:

Weight gain and fluid retention
Loosening of ligaments
Muscle weakening
Inflammation as a result of the expanding uterus pressing down on the nerve
Poor posture causing buttock and pelvic area to tighten up
Baby’s head can rest directly on the nerve

SYMPTOMS CAN INCLUDE:

Pain that starts in the back or buttocks and radiates all the way down the backs of your legs, or all the way to the foot.
Sharp, shooting pain, burning, tingling or numbness or a dull ache
Pain in lower back sitting, standing or walking that spreads into the pelvis
Symptoms vary from person to person – everyone is different.

FACTS:

Most common occur during the 3^rd trimester
Most cases subside within 6 weeks
Typically experience pain in one side
Constant or intermittent
May persist after you have given birth for up to 6 months

SELF HELP TIPS!

Heat
Rest – get off your feet
Sleep on pain free side on firm mattress with back support and pillows between legs
Perform pelvic tilts with Kegal Exercises
Swimming
Prenatal Massage
Try to gain weight slowly
Practising good posture
Wearing a belt around your belly to support the bump
Avoiding sitting or standing still for prolonged periods
Wear flat, soft shoe to help prevent jarring of your spine when you walk
Do not lift heavy objects

Attending a Chartered Physiotherapist who is experienced in pregnancy care is advisable as special considerations apply in the choice of treatment approach during pregnancy. Here at Archview Physiotherapy Clinic, our physiotherapists are trained in treating pregnancy related pain so if you are suffering from sciatica and would like to book an appointment or get further information please call 014913228 or email [email protected]. We would be happy to answer any questions you may have!

Foam Rolling

Foam Rolling - October 20, 2015

If you work out regularly, have tight muscles, suffer from injuries, have muscle imbalances, feel stressed or experience tension in your body, then foam rolling is meant for you.

The foam roller not only stretches muscles and tendons, but it breaks down soft tissue adhesions and scar tissue. By using your own body weight and a cylindrical foam roller, you can perform a self-massage or myofascial release, break up trigger points and soothe tight fascia while increasing blood flow and circulation to the soft tissues. This can lead to improved range of motion, flexibility and movement and workouts, along with increased blood flow.

Myofascial release is a body-work technique in which you use gentle, sustained pressure on the soft tissues while applying traction to the fascia. This technique results in softening and lengthening (release) of the fascia and breaking down scar tissue or adhesions between skin, muscles and bones. Think of this like a massage. Myofascial release has also been shown to relieve various muscle and joint pains such as IT band syndrome and shin splints, and it also improves flexibility and range of motion.

Foam rollers, which are rollers shaped like pool noodles that are made from dense foam, are often used to help massage and stretch sore muscles, and are an inexpensive, at-home form of treatment. These rollers can vary in density and firmness and are a great way to intensify a regular workout, add stability during exercise and stretch out sore muscles.

There are all sorts of foam rollers available, with different sizes, firmness and color. What’s best for you depends on how often you’ll be using it and your level of experience. It can be painful at first, so I highly recommend a softer foam roller at the beginning.

An image of what a foam roller looks like

Physio for Headaches

Physiotherapy for Headaches - headaches, Physiotherapy for headaches - October 9, 2015

Dry needling and headaches

Headaches are the most common pain complaint in the world with 90% of people experiencing them at some stage in life. There are many different types of headache and if this is your first or worst headache you’ll need to visit your GP first to clear you for physiotherapy treatment.

Dry needling can be helpful for headaches which arise from trigger points in the muscles in the neck. Myofascial trigger points can occur when muscles are overworked or stressed.

Trigger points in neck muscles are common in those who have desk jobs, who spend a lot of time typing or using the mouse. Often new mums or those with young children who are repeatedly bending or lifting will also have problems with these muscles. Your physiotherapist will carry out a detailed assessment. This will include taking a thorough history of your condition and assessing the movement and strength of your neck and your posture. If trigger points are found to be contributing to your headaches then dry needling of relevant muscles such as trapezius, levator scapula and masseter will be recommended. Your physiotherapist will also address stiffness in your neck joints and your posture.

Dry needling along with other physiotherapy techniques can be used both to treat and to prevent headaches.

Sports Massage

Uncategorized - August 26, 2015

At Archview Physiotherapy we have a team of massage therapists working 7 days a week. Our massage therapists conduct each massage uniquely to suit the clients needs. All our massage sessions are 55 minutes long. However, you can request a longer massage time. Your therapist will firstly ask where your problem areas are. If you want to have extra time spent on a specific areas, such as right shoulder and mid back, please do let your therapist know. Our aim is to make sure you get the most out of the 55 minutes with us and feel great relief! We also recommend that you let your therapist know what type of pressure you prefer – soft, medium , deep or extra deep. With a sports massage the therapists starts off with a medium pressure to soften the knots and then will increase the pressure to deep to fully dissolve them until your back, neck and limbs feel soft and relaxed!

With a 55 minutes sports massage your masseuse will recommend that more focus is spent on areas that you are more prone to muscle overload and tightness based on the sport you play or exercises you perform. For instance; Runners usually opt for 55 minutes working on gluts, lower back and legs. Tennis players usually opt for mid back, neck, shoulders and arm muscles. Its very important to maintain good flexibly and length in your muscles as you train so to avoid sporting injuries. A sports massage is a lovely way to treat your muscles after a long hard week of training.

We are open on Saturdays and Sundays. You can also find us on Facebook and Twitter for discount rates on massage. It’s also important to note that your massage may be claimable with your health insurance. We recommend that you contact your provider to find out if you can claim back on your massage under your medical day to day expenses. If you are applicable to claim back from your provider why not avail of it each year. Its a win win!

Health risks associated with physical inactivity

Uncategorized - #exerciseismedicine, #exerciseworks, #getactive - February 18, 2015

Most people are aware that physical activity and regular exercise is important for weight management and optimal health. What some people do not realise is that being physically inactive is considered a risk factor for several illnesses and medical conditions. Anyone can suffer negative consequences if they live a sedentary lifestyle and are physically inactive. Below are some of the negative effects of physical inactivity:

Less active persons have a greater risk of developing high blood pressure
Risk of developing coronary heart disease increases
Osteoporosis more likely to occur
Physical inactivity may increase the risk of colon and breast cancer
Doubles the risk of obesity
Increase chance of gallstone formation
Adult onset diabetes more likely to develop
Lack of physical activity can contribute to feelings of anxiety and depression.

The consequences of being inactive are sobering. However, we can all make changes and he good news is that even just 30 minutes of activity a day can change your life for the better. So Get Up and Get Active! If you would like to know how you could become more active or would like a personalised exercise programme contact one of our Chartered Physiotherapists at Archview Physiotherapy Clinic, Dublin 6 and Dublin 14 on 01 4913228 or email [email protected].

Physiotherapy After Hip Replacement

Uncategorized - #elderlyphysio, #hipreplacement, #physiotherapy - February 18, 2015

Hip replacements are one of the most common joint replacement procedures performed in hospitals today. They are normally performed on individuals who have a history of hip pain due to wear and tear in the hip joint. The hip is a ball and socket joint, the ball being the head of the femur (thigh bone) and the socket being the acetabulum. The ball fits snugly into the socket and is helped kept in place by ligaments, muscles and other structures. However, with the enormous amount of movement available at this joint, it can lead it wear and tear. If the wear and tear in the hip joint becomes quite painful, you may have to get a hip replacement.

There are different types of hip replacement:

Total hip replacement – This involves a total replacement of the painful and damaged joint structures in the hip which artificial materials. The replacement will consist of a ball, socket and stem.
Hemi replacement – This is a partial replacement of the hip joint, whereby only the ball (head of femur) is replaced. The new metal ball fits into the original socket of the hip joint.
Surface replacement – This is another total replacement of the hip, however, some of the bone is spared and not replaced with artificial prosthesis. Normally, the ball is reshaped to fit into the new artificial socket.

After surgery, there is a lot of work to do. Due to pain being present in the hip for some time, the muscles are weak and tight. In order to provide the strength, control and stability that is needed around the hip, a rehabilitation program consisting of exercises and hands on techniques will be needed to get you back to normal. Find more information at The National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS) http://www.niams.nih.gov/Health_Info/Hip_Replacement/. This publication contains general information about hip replacement. It describes what a hip replacement is, who should have it, and alternatives to surgery. If surgery is required, it explains what the surgery involves, recovery, and rehabilitation.

If you have further questions contact one of our Chartered Physiotherapists at Archview Physiotherapy Clinic, Dublin 6 and Dublin 14 for a consultation on 01 4913228 or email [email protected].

High Heels Causing You Pain?

Uncategorized - #feet, #highheels, #pain - February 18, 2015

It’s the middle of the festive party season and from the outside, wearing high heels might look attractive. However, on closer inspection this is certainly not the case. Wearing high heels can cause pain during and after wearing, as well as the fact that long term use can lead to long term damage.

From studies, we know that:

The pressure on the metatarsals in your increases hugely while wearing heels. This increase in pressure can lead to the development of a Morton’s neuroma. Morton’s neuroma is an aggravation of the nerve at the metatarsals and can lead to pain and/or numbness.
Due to the narrow width of high heels, the risk of developing a hallux valgus, or bunion as it is more commonly known, is increased. This can lead to overall cramping in the foot as well as a deformation.
While wearing high heels, the Achilles tendon is left in a sustained shortened position. This can lead to an altering in your foot mechanics and may also make you more likely to develop acute injuries such as ankle sprains or calf tears.
Wearing heels also leads to an increase in pressure around the knee. In some cases up to as much as 26%. So if you suffer from knee pain, maybe you should leave the heels at home in the wardrobe!
With all this in mind, maybe we should all limit the amount of time we spend in high heels and give our feet some TLC!

If you are experiencing pain from wearing high heels contact one of our Chartered Physiotherapists at Archview Physiotherapy Clinic, Dublin 6 and Dublin 14 for a consultation on 01 4913228 or email [email protected].

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