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Appalachian Physical Therapy helps patients with many different conditions. Please see the diagram below for information on common conditions we treat and how physical therapy can help you.

Information coming soon!

Information coming soon!

Rotator Cuff Injuries
The rotator cuff is a group of muscles surrounding the shoulder. They are made up of the supraspinatus, infraspinatus, sub–scapularis and teres minor muscles. While these muscles are small and not that powerful, they play a critical role in how the shoulder moves. Without your rotator cuff, you would not be able to lift your arm very far from your side. The job of the rotator cuff is to guide the direction of the humerus head down and spin so that it clears the bony shelf above the socket called the acromion. When the rotator cuff is weak, the head of the humerus rides up slamming into the acromion above it.

The rotator cuff takes a lot of abuse over a lifetime and tearing is very common as we age. Many factors can lead to injury to the rotator cuff such as sports injuries, falls onto the shoulder or arm, repeat lifting or movements, poor posture or heavy lifting in abnormal positions.

Rotator cuff tears can be minor, causing pain and inflammation, or major which can require surgery. With surgery, depending on a variety factors such as the quality of the tissue, the extent of the tear and other health factors, the recovery can take between 3-6 months. Physical therapy is a very important part of preparing for surgery and rehabilitating after surgery.

How physical therapy helps
Often, with small tears, physical therapy can dramatically reduce pain, improve function and allow you to lead an active lifestyle without any problems. Our physical therapists will work with you to improve your shoulder range of motion, restore proper joint mobility, reduce inflammation, relieve pain and improve the strength of your rotator cuff.

If surgery is needed, we work closely with your physician to follow his/her protocol on rehabilitation. The beginning of therapy focuses on reducing pain, education on protection of the surgery repair, and maintaining a certain range of motion. Over time, as your physician protocol allows, range of motion is increased, joint mobility is restored and finally very gentle strengthening is begun.

Towards the end of your physical therapy further strengthening and complete range of motion will be attained for your shoulder. All of this is coordinated per the instructions of your physician and we ensure thorough communication with your physician at all times. Call us today to learn more about how we help your rotator cuff perform better and relieve your shoulder pain.

Gastrointestinal issues is an umbrella term that includes many different conditions that occur in the abdomen and gastrointestinal tract. These conditions include but are not limited to: constipation, diarrhea, gastroesophageal reflux disorder (heartburn), and irritable bowel syndrome. Although these conditions may be caused by dysfunction of the specific organ involved, they may also arise as a result of dysfunction of the supporting connective tissue. Each internal organ is surrounded by a connective tissue capsule. This capsule is connected to a network of connective tissue that supports the organ and allows proper mobility while providing support. This tissue can become damaged due to trauma including purposeful trauma like surgery which can limit the mobility and function of this tissue. Alteration in the mobility of this tissue can result in abnormal forces being placed on gastrointestinal organs which can interfere with normal organ function.

Our physical therapists have extensive training to determine the root cause of gastrointestinal dysfunction. If you, or someone you know, are struggling with gastrointestinal issue and are looking for help, contact us at Appalachian Physical Therapy today to schedule an appointment. One of our Pinehurst, Broadway, or Harrisonburg physical therapists will get you started on the path to recovery and relief.

Information coming soon!

About Nerve Injuries
There are many nerves traveling along the elbow, forearm, wrist and hand. With injuries to the hand, wrist, forearm or elbow, nerve damage can result. Symptoms may be mild such as mild numbness, tingling or abnormal temperature feelings. In severe cases, muscle function and paralysis can occur.

Many nerve injuries occur because of overuse and chronic swelling. This doesn’t allow proper circulation to flow to the nerves, affecting their functioning. Poor posture while doing common activities generally causes overuse injuries and chronic swelling. If you have significant nerve sensations into your arm, wrist or hand, it is important to follow up with us and your physician.

How physical therapy helps
Physical therapy is very important to the healing aspect of nerve injuries. Whether mild from a small injury or severe after surgery, our experts work with you and your physician to facilitate your recovery.

The emphasis of physical therapy is on removing pressure from around the nerve by restoring normal tissue movement, joint movement and range of motion. Our hands-on therapy serves to soothe and improve circulation, while stimulating nerves to restore normal function. Call us today to discover how we help relieve your nerve pain and restore normal function.