Robin – Saunders Therapy

Samantha Pawelk

November 24, 2023November 24, 2023 by Robin

Maple Grove Office
Administration

Anna Zigmund

October 17, 2023 by Robin

Clinical Operations Specialist
Administration

Steven Mizak, PT, DPT

April 12, 2024August 17, 2023 by Robin

Maple Grove Office
Work Hardening, Orthopedics, TMJ, Sports Medicine

Sacroiliac Pain Treatment (SI Joint)

August 3, 2023 by Robin

Physical therapy can be very effective in treating SI joint (sacroiliac joint) pain. The SI joint is located between the sacrum (the triangular bone at the base of the spine) and the ilium (part of the pelvis). Dysfunction or inflammation of this joint can lead to pain in the lower back, buttocks, and hips. Back pain problems can be confused with, or related to, hip and leg pain, weakness, or numbness. Our clinicians are skilled at differential assessment and can treat most of these conditions with physical therapy. Try physical therapy before resorting to expensive tests and procedures!

How Saunders Treats Sacroiliac Joint (SI Joint) Problems

Musculoskeletal Evaluation: Our consultation starts with a thorough exam that includes an assessment of your posture, muscle flexibility and strength, spinal symmetry, and a neurological assessment.

Manual Therapy: This involves hands-on techniques performed by our PTs to mobilize and manipulate the SI joint. These techniques can help improve joint alignment and reduce pain.

Strengthening Exercises: Targeting the muscles around the SI joint, such as the glutes, lower back, and core muscles, can provide stability and support to the joint. Strengthening these muscles can also reduce strain on the SI joint.

Stretching Exercises: Gentle stretching of the hip and lower back muscles can help alleviate tightness and improve flexibility. Tight muscles around the SI joint can contribute to pain and dysfunction.

Posture and Body Mechanics Education: Learning proper posture and body mechanics during daily activities can help reduce stress on the SI joint and promote better alignment.

Heat or Cold Therapy: Applying heat or cold to the affected area can help reduce inflammation and relieve pain.

Bracing or Taping: In some cases, we may recommend wearing a supportive brace or using kinesiology tape to provide additional stability to the SI joint.

Low-Impact Exercises: Engaging in low-impact exercises such as swimming or biking can help maintain overall fitness without putting excessive strain on the SI joint.

Thoracic Outlet Syndrome Treatment

August 3, 2023 by Robin

Physical therapy for Thoracic Outlet Syndrome (TOS) is a conservative, non-surgical treatment approach aimed at relieving symptoms and improving the functional capacity of individuals with this condition. TOS is a group of disorders that occur when there is compression of the nerves, blood vessels, or both in the thoracic outlet, which is the space between the collarbone (clavicle) and the first rib.

Saunders Therapy Centers physical therapists are experts at addressing the many factors contributing to Thoracic Outlet Syndrome. Saunders’ physical therapy for TOS typically involves the following components:

The Saunders Thoracic Outlet Treatment Approach

Assessment: Our physical therapists will perform a thorough evaluation to assess the specific symptoms and functional limitations caused by TOS. This evaluation will help determine the underlying cause of the condition and guide the development of an appropriate treatment plan.

Posture and Ergonomics: Your Saunders therapist will address any postural abnormalities or poor ergonomics that may be contributing to the compression in the thoracic outlet. Correcting posture and providing ergonomic recommendations can help reduce pressure on the affected structures.

Stretching and Strengthening Exercises: Specific exercises are prescribed to strengthen the muscles around the shoulder, neck, and upper back region. Strengthening these muscles can improve stability and support the thoracic outlet, reducing the risk of compression.

Range of Motion Exercises: Gentle range of motion exercises are used to improve the mobility of the shoulder and neck. This can help alleviate stiffness and tension in the area.

Manual Therapy Techniques: Hands-on techniques, such as massage, joint mobilizations, and soft tissue manipulation, may be used by your Saunders PT to reduce muscle tightness, improve circulation, and relieve pain.

Nerve Gliding Exercises: Specific exercises designed to promote the gliding of nerves through the thoracic outlet may be incorporated to alleviate nerve compression symptoms.

Pain Management Techniques: The therapist may teach pain management strategies, such as relaxation techniques, ice or heat therapy, and the use of assistive devices to ease discomfort.

Home Exercise Program: A personalized home exercise program will be provided, ensuring continuity of care and progress in the rehabilitation process.

In some cases, if conservative treatments like physical therapy do not provide sufficient relief, more invasive treatments may be considered. Since Saunders Therapy Centers has great success treating TOS, it’s always a good idea to try us first, before you seek more invasive treatments like surgery.

Physical Therapy for Dizziness and Vertigo

August 3, 2023August 3, 2023 by Robin

physical therapist assisting with balancing exercise

Saunders physical therapists perform a detailed evaluation that can help distinguish between the many potential causes of dizziness (vertigo), balance problems, and related symptoms like nausea and light-headedness. At its best, vertigo is extremely annoying. At its worst, it can lead to a serious fall.

Physical therapy can be an effective treatment for vertigo, especially when the condition is caused by certain types of vestibular disorders. Vestibular disorders affect the inner ear, which is responsible for balance and spatial orientation. Physical therapy aims to help patients improve balance, reduce dizziness, and manage vertigo symptoms. The type of physical therapy used for vertigo is called vestibular rehabilitation therapy (VRT). VRT involves specific exercises and techniques to promote adaptation and compensation for the dysfunction in the vestibular system. Here are some common components of VRT:

VRT Physical Therapy For Dizziness and Vertigo

Gaze stabilization exercises: These exercises involve focusing on a fixed object while moving the head. This helps train the brain to stabilize vision during head movements, reducing dizziness.

Balance exercises: Patients may practice standing on different surfaces or perform specific movements to improve their balance and reduce the risk of falls.

Habituation exercises: These exercises involve repeated movements that provoke dizziness to help the brain adapt and become less sensitive to the triggering movements over time.

Brandt-Daroff exercises: These are a set of exercises used to treat benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), a common type of vertigo caused by loose calcium crystals in the inner ear.

Canalith repositioning maneuvers: These maneuvers are used specifically for BPPV and involve guiding the loose calcium crystals out of the affected inner ear canal.

Vestibular ocular reflex (VOR) exercises: These exercises focus on improving the coordination between eye movements and head movements to enhance gaze stability during motion.

It’s important to remember that physical therapy for vertigo should be performed under the guidance of a trained physical therapist. The specific exercises and techniques used by your Saunders physical therapist will depend on the underlying cause of the vertigo and your unique condition. Additionally, not all cases of vertigo can be treated with physical therapy. Some cases may require medical intervention or other forms of treatment, but Saunders Therapy Centers is a great place to start in your journey toward an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan.

Whiplash Treatment

August 3, 2023 by Robin

The treatment of whiplash by physical therapists typically involves a combination of different techniques aimed at reducing pain, improving mobility, and promoting healing. Here are some common approaches Saunders physical therapists use to treat whiplash:

The Saunders Whiplash Treatment Approach

Evaluation and Assessment: Saunders physical therapists begin by assessing the severity of the whiplash injury and identifying any specific areas of concern or limitations.

Pain Management: We use various methods such as ice or heat therapy, gentle manual therapy or massage to help alleviate pain and inflammation in the affected area.

Manual Therapy: As you improve, we employ more hands-on techniques such as massage, joint mobilization, and manipulation to improve joint function and reduce muscle tension.

Stretching and Strengthening Exercises: Specific exercises are prescribed to improve flexibility, strength, and stability in the neck and surrounding muscles. These exercises help to restore normal function and prevent further injury.

Posture and Body Mechanics: Proper body mechanics and posture are emphasized to avoid additional strain on the neck and spine during daily activities.

Range of Motion Exercises: Gradual and controlled movements are prescribed to improve the range of motion in the neck and prevent stiffness.

Education and Lifestyle Modifications: Patients are educated about whiplash and given advice on how to modify their daily activities and movements to support the healing process.

Cervical Traction: In some cases, cervical traction may be used to gently stretch the neck and alleviate pressure on the affected areas.

Functional Rehabilitation: Saunders physical therapists help you gradually return to regular activities and work by addressing any functional limitations caused by the whiplash injury.

It’s crucial to note that the treatment plan for whiplash can vary based on the severity of the injury and individual patient needs. Early intervention and consistent compliance with the prescribed treatment plan are essential for a successful recovery. If you experience whiplash or any other injury, Saunders physical therapists can help guide you back to full recovery.

Tennis Elbow Treatment

August 3, 2023 by Robin

Tennis elbow, also known as lateral epicondylitis, is a painful condition that affects the tendons on the outside of the elbow. Despite its name, it can be caused by any repetitive arm and wrist movements, not just playing tennis. Activities such as typing, painting, plumbing, and using tools can also contribute to the development of tennis elbow.

The condition occurs when the tendons that connect the forearm muscles to the outer part of the elbow become inflamed or damaged due to overuse or repetitive strain. This can lead to pain and tenderness on the outer side of the elbow and sometimes down the forearm.

Treatment for tennis elbow usually involves a combination of self-care measures and expert physical therapy. Here is how Saunders physical therapists treat tennis elbow:

The Saunders Tennis Elbow Treatment Approach

Manual Therapy: This includes hands-on techniques performed by a physical therapist to gently mobilize and massage the elbow and surrounding tissues. Manual therapy can help improve joint mobility, reduce pain, and restore normal elbow function.

Therapeutic Exercises: Our physical therapists will prescribe specific exercises to strengthen the muscles around the elbow. These exercises may include range of motion exercises, gentle resistance training appropriate for your injury, and stretching.

Modalities: Therapeutic modalities can be used to reduce pain, inflammation, and muscle tension in the shoulder area.

Functional Training: This involves practicing movements and activities that are relevant to your daily life or sports activities. Functional training helps to integrate the improved strength and flexibility into real-life situations.

Activity Modification: Your physical therapist may advise you on modifying certain activities or movements that aggravate your elbow pain to prevent further injury.

Education and Home Exercises: A crucial part of physical therapy is learning about your condition and performing home exercises and self-management techniques to continue progress outside of therapy sessions.

Taping and Bracing: In some cases, taping or bracing techniques may be used to support the elbow and facilitate healing.

Remember, every individual’s condition is unique, and the best physical therapy treatment for tennis elbow will depend on the underlying cause of the pain. A personalized approach from an expert physical therapist is vital to achieve the best results. In most cases, tennis elbow can be effectively treated with conservative measures. However, if the pain persists or becomes severe, we will work with your physician or refer you to an appropriate specialist for additional care.

Shoulder Pain Treatment

August 3, 2023 by Robin

The best physical therapy treatment for shoulder pain can vary depending on the specific cause and severity of the pain. However, there are some common physical therapy techniques that are often effective in addressing shoulder pain, including such conditions as shoulder tendinitis, shoulder bursitis, rotator cuff injury, and frozen shoulder. A Saunders physical therapist can help determine the most suitable treatment plan for your individual condition. Our goal is to achieve pain relief as soon as possible, and then to restore normal motion, strength, and posture to prevent recurrence of your symptoms. Saunders physical therapists specialize in shoulder pain treatment – choosing Saunders means you will be treated by an experienced professional. Here are some common physical therapy treatments we might use for your condition:

The Saunders Shoulder Pain Treatment Approach

Manual Therapy: This includes hands-on techniques performed by a physical therapist to mobilize and manipulate the shoulder joint and surrounding tissues. Manual therapy can help improve joint mobility, reduce pain, and restore normal shoulder function.

Therapeutic Exercises: Our physical therapists will prescribe specific exercises to strengthen the muscles around the shoulder joint, improve flexibility, and enhance stability. These exercises may include range of motion exercises, resistance training, and stretching.

Modalities: Therapeutic modalities can be used to reduce pain, inflammation, and muscle tension in the shoulder area.

Posture Correction: Poor posture can contribute to shoulder pain. Our experts will assess and provide strategies to improve posture, reducing stress on the shoulder joint.

Activity Modification: Your physical therapist may advise you on modifying certain activities or movements that aggravate your shoulder pain to prevent further injury.

Taping and Bracing: In some cases, taping or bracing techniques may be used to support the shoulder joint and facilitate healing.

Remember, every individual’s condition is unique, and the best physical therapy treatment for shoulder pain will depend on the underlying cause of the pain. A personalized approach from an expert physical therapist is vital to achieve the best results. Additionally, it’s essential to follow the therapist’s advice and be consistent with the exercises and treatments to maximize the benefits of physical therapy.

Just Breathe!

April 11, 2023 by Robin

Life gets busy, and it can often be stressful. While we cannot always change the things happening around us, we can help control how our body responds to these stressors by adding some breath work to your daily routine. Don’t panic! You don’t have to lie on a yoga mat on the floor in a candle lit room (yep – I get that’s not everyone’s jam!) to reap the benefits.

Here’s a fun fact: the pattern we use with our breathing can impact our nervous system, and in turn impact how we feel! When we perform slow, deep breathing we activate our parasympathetic nervous system (PNS), sometimes referred to as our “rest and digest” system. This system helps relax our body after periods of stress and danger. Sometimes, if we’re experiencing ongoing pain or life stresses, we have difficulty turning our PNS on, and we may spend too much time the “fight or flight”/sympathetic nervous system (SNS). This “fight or flight” (SNS) is necessary for safety and survival, but if we spend too much time in this system, it can be quite straining on our bodies.

Breathe… To Calm Your Body’s “Fight or Flight” Response to Pain or Stress

To start, find a comfortable position (standing, sitting, lying down) and just take note of how you are breathing. Are you expanding your belly/lower ribs, or does most of the movement happen in your upper chest and shoulders? When you inhale does your abdomen expand or are you sucking it in? What we are looking for is minimal movement in the upper chest/shoulders, and expansion of the ribs/abdomen when we take a breath in. If you are breathing quickly, see if you can slow it down a little. Be sure to use a rate that feels comfortable to you.

If you want, you can even close your eyes and visualize areas on your body relaxing, perhaps letting go of any extra tension with each exhalation. You may even say something like “I am” when you are inhaling/expanding your ribs/abdomen, and then say “calm” (or really whatever you WANT to be!) when you exhale (allowing your abdomen to return to its normal shape). If you have the time, spend 5-10 minutes practicing this. Try not to let your mind wander off to what you might need to do after this practice and try to be in the moment.

Once you have the patterning down, try to add this activity frequently throughout your day. Breathing like this for just a minute, regularly during your day can really make a big difference – so go ahead and give it a try. If you want to practice this technique with a skilled Saunders physical therapist, and learn a few more helpful tips, please give us a call so we can help you feel your best!

By Shannon Burrows, PT MSc