Category Archives: Trigger Points

Vertigo

Vertigo

Most people are unaware that Physiotherapy can be extremely helpful for Vertigo. Specifically at Dr7 Physiotherapy and Podiatry Yokine, our Physiotherapists can treat a type of Vertigo called Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV for short – what a mouthful!). Generally within 1-2 sessions a client can go from being extremely nauseous and dizzy to healthy, happy and fully functioning again. If you or someone you know has ever suffered from Vertigo, this may surprise you. Most people, who have suffered from Vertigo before, will attest that it is a horrible feeling.

What is Vertigo

But first, let’s establish what Vertigo is. Vertigo is a broad classification given to a ‘condition’ which encompasses all types of movement causing dizziness, nausea and spinning. BPPV occurs when the inner ear becomes affected and the structures which help to orientate and balance the body are disrupted. As such, the body moves and because these structures aren’t doing their job, it feels as though the body is still moving (e.g. the room continues to spin).

Anatomy & Cause

Let’s get technical. Below is a photo of the inner ear. You will see that there are many structures that comprise this very small structure – it measures only 30mm in length! Within the utricle and saccule, there are many thousands of crystalised minerals (Otoconia). Occasionally, these crystals can become dislodged from the Utricle and Saccule and make their way into the 3 semi-circular canals (anterior, posterior and horizontal). The semi-circular canals are full of fluid. When the body moves in a particular direction, it sends the fluid ‘swirling’ through these canals. As the fluid moves the body/brain is able to determine which way we are moving and therefore derives its sense of balance from this. When the crystals are stuck in these canals, the crystals continue to move/swirl, long after the movement of the body has ceased. This gives the body a perception that it is still moving when it isn’t (e.g. spinning room, dizziness).

 

 

Management

Your Physiotherapist at Dr7 Physiotherapy Tuart Hill can perform a very simple test called the Dix-Hallpike to establish that you have BPPV. From there, they will perform a series of sequential movements called the Epley’s manoeuvre. This will relocate the crystals from the semi-circular canals back to the Utricle and Saccule. Here they will literally re-attach back to the wall lining where they once belonged. The sequence of movements is very specific as this is the ‘order’ which the canals flow from one to the next.

Prevalence

BPPV appears to be most prevalent in people between the ages of 50-80, peaking at the age of about 60. It is not unheard for a person below this age to suffer from BPPV, but in this case it generally follows a trauma/blow to the head (e.g. head knock, car accident, etc) – which causes the Otoconia to become dislodged from the inner walls.

If you think you are experiencing vertigo book an appointment at Dr7 Physiotherapy and Podiatry Yokine.

Dr7 Physiotherapy and Podiatry provides services to the suburbs of Yokine, Tuart Hill, Osborne Park, Stirling, Nollamara, Dianella, North Perth and surrounding suburbs. Our friendly Physiotherapists and Podiatrists have appointments available Monday-Saturday.

Bookings are available on our website or over the phone.

Rib Dysfunction

Rib Dysfunction

Rib Dysfunction

Have you ever felt a sharp sensation around your shoulder blade or mid-back during certain twisting, lifting and abrupt movements? Chances are you may be experiencing dysfunction around your rib joint/s. Read on to find out more…

 

What is rib dysfunction?

Rib dysfunction occurs when there is a misalignment of a rib/s on the thorax. This results in mechanical dysfunction, restriction, dislodgement or inflammation between your ribs and their attachment sites. Due to the anatomy of a rib joint, dysfunction of this area can cause immense, debilitating pain.

Anatomy

The thoracic (mid-back) region typically has 12 vertebrae and 24 ribs. These vertebrae connect and articulate with ribs via the costovertebral and costotransverse joints which are held together by ligaments. These joints have a blood and nerve supply which subjects them to a great deal of inflammation and pain when irritated.

Causes

Rib dysfunction is caused by a variety of contributing factors. These include:

  • Recent trauma
  • Recent illness that generates constant coughing motion
  • Prolonged, poor posture
  • Awkward sleeping patterns
  • Weak back muscles
  • Repetitive stress
  • Stationary desk work

What does rib dysfunction feel like?

Typically patients will describe a deep, dull ache around between the spine and shoulder blade. This pain will fluctuate or become sharp with activities such as coughing, sneezing, twisting, lifting or bending. At times symptoms may refer into the arm or neck, with tenderness reported around the front of one’s chest bone.

Symptoms

  • Diffuse, deep, dull ache
  • Sharp, severe pain with laughing, coughing & sneezing
  • Abdominal and/or chest pain
  • Feelings of ‘clicking’ or ‘popping’
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Unexplained back pain
  • Postural imbalance

 

Treatment

Here at Dr7 Physiotherapy and Podiatry Yokine all of our practitioners have the expertise to correctly diagnosis, treat and manage symptoms associated with rib dysfunction. Most presentations will require a rib joint manipulation and soft tissue release around the site of injury. Some cases are resolved immediately with others requiring multiple treatments/adjustments to completely alleviate symptoms

Once the acute, sharp pain has been resolved our practitioners at Dr7 Physiotherapy Tuart Hill will undertake a biomechanical assessment and provide exercises and/or strategies to prevent further aggravation. It is important to correct the underlying structural abnormality to prevent frequent and chronic rib shifts.

 

When to consult with a Medical practitioner

If you are concerned about your chest / rib pain it is very important to seek medical advice from your healthcare provider or emergency department. Some examples are:

  • Patients with fever or a severe cough
  • Left-sided chest pain radiating into the jaw and left arm
  • Extreme difficulty breathing

 

Prevention

  1. Avoid awkward, sustained postures such as hunching and prolonged reaching as a desk
  2. Avoid lifting to holding objects with outstretched arms
  3. Review with a Physiotherapist at Dr7 to assess and correct structural abnormalities
  4. Strengthen the muscles that attach to and control the rib cage

If you think you are experiencing rib dysfunction book an appointment at Dr7 Physiotherapy and Podiatry Yokine.

Dr7 Physiotherapy and Podiatry provides services to the suburbs of Yokine, Tuart Hill, Osborne Park, Stirling, Nollamara, Dianella, North Perth and surrounding suburbs. Our friendly Physiotherapists and Podiatrists have appointments available Monday-Saturday.

Bookings are available on our website or over the phone.

$40 Initial Consults for Physio and Pod

Claim Instructions: (Only valid for booking on https://dr7physioandpod.com.au/)

  1. Click the “Book an appointment” button at the top right of Dr7 Physiotherapy webpage (https://dr7physioandpod.com.au/)
  2. Select Physiotherapy or Podiatry
  3. Select appointment time and specific practitioner if you wish
  4. In the reason for visit box, type “$40”
  5. Inform reception upon arrival that you are claiming ‘$40’ website special.
    *Terms and conditions apply. Valid only for new clients to Dr7 Physiotherapy and Podiatry clinic or past clients who have not visited greater than 3 yrs ago.

 

 

 

 

*Terms & Conditions
This offer is only valid for:
1. A limited time – from 9th April 2019 until 30th June 2019.
2. Online bookings ONLY through our web page (www.dr7physioandpod.com.au)
3. New private clients to the Dr7 Physiotherapy and Podiatry Business ( or clients who have not visited for more than 3 yrs).
4. Initial consultation and treatment only but does not include stock, equipment or any take home consumables. Eg, if your practitioner recommends braces, orthotics, creams etc, then these are charged separately upon prior discussion and approval from you.

You must inform reception upon arrival for your appointment of the “$40” special offer.

Elbow Pain

Elbow Pain

Why do I have elbow pain?

The most common cause of elbow pain is due to repetitive use of your forearm muscles, it is called Tennis Elbow or Epicondylitis. Other causes of elbow pain can be ligament sprains, bone bruising or inflammation of a bursa (a sack of fluid) within the elbow joint. The cause of your elbow pain can be determined and effectively treated by your Dr7 Physiotherapist Yokine.

 

What is a Tennis Elbow?

There are muscles in your forearm that start at your elbow and attach to your wrist and fingers. When we use these muscles repetitively at work or during sport and exercise these muscles become tight and lose their elasticity. When this happens the muscles become inflamed at the bone of your elbow, where it originates from. If this condition is left for too long it will get progressively worse and can lead to sharp pains, nerve symptoms and a loss of strength in the hand.

 Anatomy of the elbow

Is it common?

Tennis Elbow is very common occurring within 1-3% of the population at all stages of life however it is most common from 30-50 years of age.

 

What causes Tennis Elbow?

Common activities that can result in Tennis Elbow now days are the use of mobile phones, ipads and computers. Due to postural positions often held while using these devices as well as the repetitive movements required. Other activities can be related to repetitive movements during sport such as gripping and swinging the racket in tennis.

 

How long does it take to get better?

The duration of your symptoms can vary and depend on several factors such as length of pain before physiotherapy treatment, if work or sport postural issues can be modified, the number of triggers present and your adherence to your exercise program. If your symptoms are mild-moderate you could have full resolution in 6-8 weeks however if your symptoms are severe it could take several months. After your initial assessment at Dr7 Physiotherapy Tuart Hill, your physiotherapist will be better able to give you a more accurate estimate.

 

How can Dr7 Physiotherapy help?

Your Dr7 Physiotherapist in Yokine will be able to provide you with some pain relieving techniques that will also regain the length and elasticity of the muscles in your forearm/s. We can teach you how to reduce your pain throughout the day but most importantly how to modify work postures and movement to resolve your pain and prevent reoccurrence. All our physiotherapists are trained in treatment techniques such a dry-needling (acupuncture), sports taping, lazer therapy and manual soft-tissue techniques. Call 9349 1777 for further information.

If you think you are experiencing elbow pain book an appointment at Dr7 Physiotherapy and Podiatry Yokine.

Dr7 Physiotherapy and Podiatry provides services to the suburbs of Yokine, Tuart Hill, Osborne Park, Stirling, Nollamara, Dianella, North Perth and surrounding suburbs. Our friendly Physiotherapists and Podiatrists have appointments available Monday-Saturday.

Bookings are available on our website or over the phone.

$40 special

$40 Physio and Podiatry Initial Consulation

$40 Physio and Podiatry Private Initial Consultation

Claim Instructions: (Only valid for booking on https://dr7physioandpod.com.au/)

  1. Click the “Book an appointment” button at the top right of Dr7 Physiotherapy webpage (https://dr7physioandpod.com.au/)
  2. Select Physiotherapy or Podiatry
  3. Select appointment time and specific practitioner if you wish
  4. In the reason for visit box, type “$40”
  5. Inform reception upon arrival that you are claiming ‘$40’ website special.
    *Terms and conditions apply. Valid only for new clients to Dr7 Physiotherapy and Podiatry clinic or past clients who have not visited greater than 3 yrs ago.

 

 

*Terms & Conditions
This offer is only valid for:
1. A limited time – until 1st March 2019.
2. Online bookings ONLY through our web page (www.dr7physioandpod.com.au)
3. New private clients to the Dr7 Physiotherapy and Podiatry Business ( or clients who have not visited for more than 3 yrs).
4. Initial consultation and treatment only but does not include stock, equipment or any take home consumables. Eg, if your practitioner recommends braces, orthotics, creams etc, then these are charged separately upon prior discussion and approval from you.

You must inform reception upon arrival for your appointment of the “$40” special offer.

Shin Splints

Shin Pain

Shin Pain

Here at Dr7 Physiotherapy and Podiatry we treat a variety of different injuries ranging from acute strains to overuse injuries. With the weather improving people are starting to ramp up their exercise regime to shed a few kilos gained over the winter. While we definitely encourage people to participate in regular exercise, beginning a new program can put people at risk of developing pain. This is because the tissues of the body take time to adjust to an increase in load. Known as repetitive stress, it can be a trigger for developing pain. For some people it’s their knee, for some it’s their heel or their hip or their back. For others it’s shin pain. Many people have probably heard of the term shin splints, but what is it?

Shin Splints, or Tibial Stress Syndrome is a condition where excessive stress and pressure is applied to the outermost layer of the shin bone. This layer, called periosteum becomes sensitive, painful and inflamed during tibial stress syndrome and the individual will experience pain along the shin bone. The condition is usually related to an increase in running or walking. The pain can be on one side or both and is often described as a dull pain.

What causes Shin Splints?

Many muscles that control the movement of the ankle, foot and toes attach onto the periosteum. When we exercise these muscles pull on the periosteum and when we exercise at a level greater than what the tissue can cope with it becomes sensitive, painful and inflamed. There is usually a combination of factors and conditions that occur to trigger an onset of shin splints. There are many factors that can contribute to shin pain and our physiotherapists can help you identify what factors are relevant to each specific patient. Risk factors can be categorised into intrinsic and extrinsic groups:

  1. Intrinsic: Age, Gender, Weight, biomechanics of the hip, knee and ankle
  2. Extrinsic:
    1. Training load such as overloading or sudden change in load (eg. resumption of exercise post-illness or after a holiday)
    2. Type of exercise, change in training conditions such as running surface, footwear, inclines
    3. Type of exercise
    4. Weather conditions

How Dr7 Physiotherapy can help:

As there are other injuries that can cause a similar type of pain it is important to have an assessment from one of our physiotherapists. The physiotherapist will check for differential diagnoses such as stress fractures, compartment syndrome, muscle strains and nerve entrapments.

Once these have been ruled out they will diagnose you with Shin Splints and help identify factors contributing to your pain. Usually an assessment will involve a biomechanical observation, assessment of your hip and knee strength, assessment of muscle tightness and a balance assessmet.

Management of Shin Splints aims to relieve the pressure and stress placed on the periosteum. Dr7 Physiotherapists can provide treatment such as massage, soft tissue release, dry needling/acupuncture to manage any muscle tightness. The physiotherapist may also apply taping to your foot and ankle to improve the biomechanics of the foot and unload the shin. Your physiotherapist will also give advice regarding appropriate ways to modify your training and advise you in self-management techniques such as foam rolling, stretching and icing/heating. Finally the therapist will give you  exercises to improve strength and control at the foot, ankle, knee and hip.

How long will my pain last?

Unfortunately the best answer is: it depends. Your recovery time very much depends on how sensitised the shin bone is. If you have had shin pain for a long time it’s likely to take longer for the shin bone to become less sensitive. It is also very dependent on your activity level. If you continue to push through painful activity it will add continued stress to the shin bone and your condition will take much longer to settle. Your Dr7 Physiotherapist will be able to give you an indication of your prognosis once they have performed a clinical assessment.

 

If you think you are experiencing shin pain book an appointment at Dr7 Physiotherapy and Podiatry.

 

Dr7 Physiotherapy and Podiatry provides services to the suburbs of Yokine, Tuart Hill, Osborne Park, Stirling, Nollamara, Dianella, North Perth and surrounding suburbs. Our friendly Physiotherapists and Podiatrists have appointments available Monday-Saturday.

Bookings are available on our website or over the phone.

$36 Physio and Podiatry Private Initial Consultation

$36 Physio and Podiatry Private Initial Consultation*

Claim Instructions: (Only valid for booking on https://dr7physioandpod.com.au/)

  1. Click the “Book an appointment” button at the top right of Dr7 Physiotherapy webpage (https://dr7physioandpod.com.au/)
  2. Select Physiotherapy or Podiatry
  3. Select appointment time and specific practitioner if you wish
  4. In the reason for visit box, type “$36”
  5. Inform reception upon arrival that you are claiming ‘$36’ website special.
    *Terms and conditions apply. Valid only for new clients to Dr7 Physiotherapy and Podiatry clinic or past clients who have not visited greater than 3 yrs ago.

 

 

*Terms & Conditions
This offer is only valid for:
1. a limited time – until 31st December 2018.
2. online bookings only through our web page (www.dr7physioandpod.com.au)
3. new private clients to the Dr7 Physiotherapy and Podiatry Business ( or clients who have not visited for more than 3 yrs).
4. Initial consultation and treatment only but does not include stock, equipment or any take home consumables. Eg, if your practitioner recommends braces, orthotics, creams etc, then these are charged separately upon prior discussion and approval from you.

You must inform reception upon arrival for your appointment of the “$36” special offer.

 

Headache

Headache

Can Physiotherapy fix your headache?

Did you know that a physiotherapist can help you with assessing the cause of your headache? And in some cases, can even help manage it!

Headaches are a very common problem and can make it extremely difficult to concentrate, work, sleep or perform normal day to day activities.

There are many different causes of headache, some of which can be addressed by your Dr7 Physiotherapist Yokine. In fact, The International headache society (yes, it’s real) has a classification system that can help differentiate types of headaches and help guide management.  Examples include migraine, tension-type headache, cluster headaches and cervicogenic headaches.

What is a cervicogenic headache?

Cervicogenic headache is a headache caused by a non-traumatic disorder involving any structure in the neck, including bony, muscular and other soft tissue elements.

Typically cervicogenic headaches consist of pain in one side of the neck, head and face. Often pain will exist in the back of the head, temples and radiate to the face and eye. The headache can be acute, or it can be present for weeks or months. Symptoms can also include reduced range of movement of the neck as well as sensitivity around the base of the skull.

Is it common?

Data relating to the incidence of cervicogenic headache is mixed, with some studies showing that up to 20% of chronic headaches could be cervicogenic in nature.

What causes cervicogenic headache?

The exact cause of the headache is usually unknown, but it is likely that a combination of factors contribute to the onset of cervicogenic headache. Physical factors such as acute neck strains/sprains, repetitive strain, prolonged postures (such as sitting at work all day) have the potential to irritate the muscles and joints of the neck and trigger a headache. Non-physical factors such as stress, anxiety and diet are likely to contribute to the onset of cervicogenic headache and can prolong recovery.

How can Dr7 Physiotherapy help?

Your Dr7 Physiotherapist Joondana will assess your headache and identify contributing factors. They will also exclude any other causes for your pain.

At Dr7 Physiotherapy Balcatta we can treat the joints and muscles of the neck using manipulative therapy and myofascial tissue therapies such as massage and dry needling. We can also advise you on the best exercises and stretches to improve your pain and reduce your risk of re-injury.

How long does it take to get better?

The duration of your symptoms can vary and depend on several factors. In most cases you will feel a significant reduction in both headache and neck pain within a few treatments. Generally if you have had cervicogenic headache for a long time it will take longer to improve, whereas acute headaches will get better very quickly.

Spiky Massage Balls at Dr7 Physiotherapy and Podiatry

Spiky Massage Ball Exercises

Spiky Massage Ball exercises demonstrated by Markus one of our physiotherapists at Dr7 Physiotherapy and Podiatry.

Are you a patient of ours and have you left a review on our google account? If you have already done that you are eligible to come down to Dr7 Physiotherapy and Podiatry to pick up a free spiky ball. Just show your review to the reception staff at the front and choose from the range of different colours we have available.

See the full video at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sgZLFM41Xr4

 

 

Wry Neck

Pain in the Neck  – Wry Neck / Acute Torticollis

What is Wry Neck

Wry Neck is a relatively common, acute episode of neck pain. It is characterised by the sudden onset of sharp pain and neck stiffness which restricts one’s ability to turn their head. Physiotherapy is an effective method to minimise neck pain and have you back to full health sooner.

Read more to find out how our Physiotherapists at Dr7 Physiotherapy & Podiatry can help you ...
Read more to find out how our Physiotherapists at Dr7 Physiotherapy & Podiatry can help you …

 

Symptoms of Wry Neck

Have you ever woken with severe neck pain and found it extremely difficult to move your head?

If so, it is likely that you might have experienced an episode of Wry neck.

Typical symptoms of Wry neck include:

  • Severe neck pain
  • Sudden onset of pain
  • Pain felt on one side of the neck
  • Restriction of neck movement
  • Muscle tightness and spasm
  • Altered neck posture
  • Asymmetries between shoulder/neck position
  • Headaches

Causes of Wry Neck

Acute wry neck typically occurs without warning. The exact cause of wry neck if not completely understood. However we do know that it can be triggered by one of the following events:

  • Minor injury to the neck
  • Sleeping in sustained, awkward positions
  • High levels of stress
  • Poor postural loading
  • Excessive, unaccustomed physical activity
  • Sudden, jerk of the head

 

Relevant Anatomy of the Neck

Also known as the cervical spine, the neck consists of 7 building blocks called the cervical vertebrae. Each vertebra is separated by a disc and joins to another vertebra above/below it to form a facet joint.  Together the disc and facet joints support the weight of the head and allow movement within the neck.

 

Types of Wry Neck

Discogenic Wry Neck

Discs are spongey shock absorbers that lie between each vertebra. These discs may sustain micro-injury under stress, leading to inflammation and swelling. This causes increased pressure to the surrounding structures within the neck and consequently high levels of pain and restricted neck movement.

 Facet Wry Neck

Facet joints are small swivel joints that allow smooth gliding and turning movements. Irritating positions or movements of the neck can cause a “locking” sensation. This leads to irritation in the facet joint and associated muscle spasm. Nerve endings located within this region trigger intense pain and jerky movement.

 

Management of Wry Neck

The good news about Wry Neck is that it can be treated quickly and effectively with the help of one of our Physiotherapists at Dr7 Physiotherapy & Podiatry. We recommend immediate treatment for best results.

At Dr7, we will undertake an assessment of your neck to confirm diagnosis and the joints involved.  This will form a management program which will be provided and put into action with the help of our therapists.

Our aims at Dr7 Physiotherapy & Podiatry are:

  • Confirm your diagnosis
  • Normalise joint movement
  • Relax muscle spasms
  • Improve muscle length/tension
  • Ensure optimal cervical posture & function
  • Educate to prevent further injury

 

If you suspect an acute wry neck, please call out clinic and we’ll do our best to fast track your appointment.

 

Treatment at Dr7 Physiotherapy

Gentle treatment modalities are used to normalise facet joint function and settle soft tissue sensitisation:

  • Therapeutic cervical mobilisations of the facet joints
  • Cervical traction to free up the facet joints & deload the discs
  • Soft tissue massage
  • Postural education
  • Strategies to unload the neck (e.g. pillow, postures)
  • Dry needling
  • Stretching
  • A tailored home exercise program

 

Self-management

If an episode of Wry Neck occurs it is important to take the following steps until you review with one of our Physiotherapists:

  • Avoid vigorous, fast movements of the neck
  • Avoid sustaining prolonged head postures
  • Apply a heat pack to the neck and surrounding muscles
  • Speak with your Pharmacist about taking anti-inflammatory medication

Prognosis

With Physiotherapy treatment symptoms will ease within the first 1-4 days, with normal function being restored within the first 2 weeks.

 

If you have questions please feel free to contact our clinic today on (08) 3949 1777. Wry neck is a debilitating injury, however it can be easily resolved with the help of Physiotherapy intervention.