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10 Signs You Need Physical Therapy in 2025 (And What to Do About It)

10 Signs You Need Physical Therapy in 2025 (And What to Do About It)

by | Jan 4, 2025 | Back Pain, Chronic Pain, News, Physical Therapy Benefits, Physical Therapy Month October, Physical Therapy Norfolk MA, Physical Therapy Norwood MA

Start the New Year Strong with PT

The start of a new year is the perfect time to focus on your health and well-being. Physical therapy isn’t just for athletes or post-surgery recovery—it’s a proactive way to improve your quality of life, manage pain, and prevent future injuries. At Physical Therapy & Sports Rehab, with offices in Norwood and Norfolk, MA, we’re here to help you take charge of your self-care journey.

Here are 10 signs you might need physical therapy and actionable tips to help you decide when to seek care:

1. Persistent Pain

Living with pain for weeks—or even months—is not normal. Physical therapy can identify the root cause and provide a personalized treatment plan to relieve pain and prevent it from returning.

Pro Tip: Keep a pain journal noting where the pain occurs, its intensity, and what triggers it. This helps your therapist better understand your condition.

2. Limited Range of Motion

If bending, reaching, or turning feels restricted, your mobility might be compromised. Physical therapy can help you regain flexibility and prevent further loss of movement.

Pro Tip: Try incorporating gentle daily stretches to test and improve your range of motion.

3. Difficulty with Daily Activities

Struggling with tasks like climbing stairs, lifting objects, or even getting out of bed? These challenges could signal underlying issues that physical therapy can address.

Pro Tip: Make a list of the activities that feel hardest and share them with your therapist for a targeted approach.

4. Recovering from Surgery

Surgery is just the first step toward recovery. Physical therapy ensures that you heal correctly and regain strength, mobility, and function.

Pro Tip: Follow your therapist’s post-surgical care plan carefully to maximize your recovery and avoid setbacks.

5. Chronic Headaches

Frequent headaches might be linked to tension in your neck, shoulders, or poor posture. Physical therapy can help alleviate these symptoms by addressing the source.

Pro Tip: Maintain proper posture while sitting or working to reduce unnecessary strain.

6. Sports Injuries

Whether you’re an athlete recovering from an injury or want to prevent one, physical therapy offers customized plans to get you back in the game safely.

Pro Tip: Strengthening exercises and proper warm-ups are key to injury prevention.

7. Balance Issues

Feeling unsteady or frequently tripping? Balance problems increase the risk of falls and injuries, but physical therapy can help you regain stability and confidence.

Pro Tip: Practice simple balance exercises like standing on one leg for 30 seconds to build strength.

8. Lingering Injuries

Old injuries don’t always heal completely and can resurface as pain or stiffness. Physical therapy targets these areas to restore proper function.

Pro Tip: Don’t wait—old injuries often worsen without intervention. Early care is always best.

9. Posture Problems

Poor posture can lead to chronic discomfort in your back, neck, or shoulders. Physical therapy can help correct these imbalances and teach you better habits.

Pro Tip: Use reminders or apps to check your posture throughout the day and incorporate
strengthening exercises.

10. Preventative Care

You don’t need to wait for pain or injury to start physical therapy. Proactive therapy helps you stay strong, flexible, and pain-free while preventing future issues.

Pro Tip: Schedule a consultation to discuss your goals and any potential concerns—prevention is the best medicine.

Why Choose PT & SR Physical Therapy in 2025?

This year, make your health a priority. Whether you’re managing a chronic condition, recovering from an injury, or simply looking to stay active, PT is a powerful tool for self-care. At PT & SR, we’re committed to helping our community live healthier, pain-free lives.

If you’re in the Norwood or Norfolk, MA area and notice any of these signs, don’t hesitate to reach out. Our team of skilled therapists is here to guide you every step of the way.

Start Your 2025 Journey Today!

Ready to take the first step? Contact us at (781) 769-2040 or request an appointment online to schedule a consultation or learn more about how physical therapy can support your health and wellness goals. Let’s make 2025 your best year yet!

Refer a Friend and Win $50 This Holiday Season

Refer a Friend and Win $50 This Holiday Season

by | Dec 9, 2024 | News, Physical Therapy Benefits, Physical Therapy Norfolk MA, Physical Therapy Norwood MA

The holiday season is here, and we at Physical Therapy & Sports Rehab are filled with gratitude
for our amazing community of patients. Your trust and support inspire us every day, and we’re
excited to give back with our Holiday Referral Giveaway!

How It Works

From now until December 23, 2024 at noon, you have the chance to win a $50 gift card by
referring friends or family members to our Norwood or Norfolk offices for physical therapy. It’s
our way of saying thank you for helping us grow and serve more people in need of personalized,
high-quality care.

Here’s how to participate:

  • Refer a friend or family member to Physical Therapy & Sports Rehab.
  • When they call to book their new patient evaluation, they must mention your name as
    the person who referred them.
  • The more referrals, the more entries you get! For every referral, your name will be
    entered into the giveaway for a chance to win!
  • All referrals must book their new patient evaluation before January 31, 2025 to qualify.

The lucky winner will be drawn on Monday, December 23, 2024, just in time for the holidays!

Why We’re Doing This

At Physical Therapy & Sports Rehab, we believe that healing and wellness should be a
community effort. Many of our patients come to us through word-of-mouth recommendations,
and this holiday season, we want to show our gratitude to those who trust us enough to
recommend our care to their loved ones.

Referrals not only help us grow but also allow us to provide the same exceptional care to even
more individuals in our community. Your support means everything to us, and this is our small
way of giving back.

Don’t Wait—Enter Today!

Whether it’s a family member recovering from an injury or a friend looking to enhance their
mobility and strength, there’s no better time to refer them to Physical Therapy & Sports Rehab.

Spread the cheer, share the gift of wellness, and increase your chances of winning $50 this
holiday season. Remember, the deadline is December 23 at noon—don’t miss your chance!

We are here for you.

Our team of experienced Physical Therapists is ready to provide you with personalized care and effective treatment solutions. For more information or to schedule your first step towards relief and improved health, contact us at (781) 769-2040 or request an appointment online.

Baseball Injuries: Preventing Arm Injuries in Youth and College Athletes

Baseball Injuries: Preventing Arm Injuries in Youth and College Athletes

by | Nov 19, 2024 | Baseball Injury, Elbow Pain Treatment, Injury Prevention, News, Physical Therapy Benefits, Physical Therapy Norfolk MA, Physical Therapy Norwood MA, Sports Injuries

Why Arm Injuries Happen in Young Athletes

Baseball is a fun sport, but it can also lead to arm injuries, especially in young players. These injuries often happen because of the repeated throwing motion and the physical stress on growing bodies.

Common Causes of Arm Injuries

  1. Overuse: Throwing too much without enough rest can cause overuse injuries. Muscles and tendons get tired and are more likely to get hurt.
  2. Improper Technique: Using the wrong throwing technique puts extra stress on the shoulder and elbow.
  3. Inadequate Warm-Up: Not warming up properly before playing can make muscles and tendons more prone to injury.
  4. Lack of Strength and Flexibility: Young athletes who aren’t strong or flexible enough in their shoulders and arms are more likely to get injured.

Signs and Symptoms

It’s important to know the signs of arm injuries so you can get help early. Look for:

  •  Shoulder Pain: Pain and tenderness when lifting the arm, weakness in the shoulder.
  •  Elbow Pain: Pain on the inner side of the elbow, swelling, and a feeling of instability.
  •  Labral Tears: Deep shoulder pain, clicking or catching in the shoulder.
  •  Little League Elbow: Pain and tenderness around the elbow, swelling, and reduced range of motion.

When to See a Physical Therapist

If your child has any of these symptoms, it’s time to see a physical therapist:

  • Pain that doesn’t go away after a few days of rest.
  • Swelling or significant tenderness in the shoulder or elbow.
  • Decreased strength or range of motion.
  • Popping or snapping sensations in the joint.

Common Baseball Injuries

The most common injuries in young baseball players are overuse injuries of the elbow and shoulder. Playing through pain can turn a minor injury into a serious one. See a doctor if there is pain, swelling, or loss of motion in the shoulder or elbow.

Overuse Injuries

Overuse injuries develop when players throw too much without enough rest. “Little League elbow” and “Little League shoulder” are caused by too much throwing. Pitchers and catchers are most at risk. These injuries often need rest, physical therapy, and a gradual return to throwing.

Risk Factors for Injury

Playing in Multiple Leagues: Playing on more than one team can prevent proper rest.

Playing Year-Round: Young athletes should play baseball no more than eight months a year. Playing other sports helps balance muscle use.

Lack of Cross-Training: Cross-training helps balance overall strength and fitness.

Overtraining: Training too hard without a good fitness base can lead to injury.

Preventing Injuries

Parents, coaches, and athletes can help prevent injuries with these tips:

Thrower’s Ten Program: the gold standard prehab program for preventing shoulder and elbow injuries. Great for any skill level from MLB to Little League. Although it is specifically designed for baseball players it works for all overhead throwing athletes.

Conditioning and Flexibility: Warm up before playing and stretch afterward. Focus on shoulder and elbow stretches to prevent ligament and tendon problems.

Proper Throwing Mechanics: Use the correct techniques when pitching and throwing to avoid unnecessary stress on the arm.

Rest and Pitch Count

Proper rest and monitoring pitch counts are essential for preventing overuse injuries. Here are the current pitching recommendations for youth baseball players:

For more detailed guidelines, visit the MLB’s Pitch Smart guidelines.

Schedule an Appointment

If your child is experiencing pain or you want to prevent injuries, our team at the PHYSICAL THERAPY & SPORTS REHAB is here to help. Call 781-769-2040 today to set up an appointment or a free consultation and take the first step towards a healthier, injury-free season.

This blog is designed to be easy to read and provides clear, actionable advice to help prevent and treat baseball injuries in young athletes.

REFERENCES

  1. Lyman S, Fleisig GS, Andrews JR, Osinski ED. **Effect of pitch type, pitch count, and pitching mechanics on risk of elbow and shoulder pain in youth baseball pitchers**. Am J Sports Med. 2002;30(4):463-468. doi:10.1177/03635465020300040201.
  1. American Academy of Pediatrics. **Baseball and softball**. Pediatrics. 2012;129(3):e842-e856. doi:10.1542/peds.2011-3593. Available from: https://publications.aap.org/pediatrics/article/129/3/e842/31767/Baseball-and-Softball
  1. Makhni EC, Lyman S, Fleisig GS, et al. **Shoulder injuries in the young athlete**. J Bone Joint Surg Am. 2015;97(7):587-596. doi:10.2106/JBJS.N.00814.
  1. Grantham WJ, Moughan A, Gatt CJ, et al. **Injury prevention for the youth baseball pitcher**. Sports Health. 2017;9(6):481-484. doi:10.1177/1941738117732161.
  1. MLB. **Pitch Smart guidelines**. Available from: https://www.mlb.com/pitch-smart/pitching-guidelines
  1. American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. **The Thrower’s Ten exercise program**. Available from: https://www.ortho.ufl.edu/sites/default/files/2023-10/Throwers-Ten.pdf

We are here for you.

Our team of experienced Physical Therapists is ready to provide you with personalized care and effective treatment solutions. For more information or to schedule your first step towards relief and improved health, contact us at (781) 769-2040 or request an appointment online.

Plantar Fasciitis: Heal Pain – Get Back on Your Feet!

Plantar Fasciitis: Heal Pain – Get Back on Your Feet!

by | Oct 10, 2024 | Chronic Pain, Heel Pain, News, Physical Therapy Benefits, Physical Therapy Norfolk MA, Physical Therapy Norwood MA, Plantar Fasciitis

Back on Your Feet: Effective Physical Therapy for Plantar Fasciitis

Are you tired of waking up with a stabbing pain in your heel? Does the thought of standing or walking fill you with dread? If so, you might be suffering from plantar fasciitis. This common yet painful condition can significantly impact your daily life, but the good news is, it’s treatable. At Physical Therapy and Sports Rehab, we specialize in providing tailored treatments that can help you say goodbye to heel pain for good.

Common Causes and Symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis occurs when the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs across the bottom of your foot and connects your heel bone to your toes, becomes inflamed. This inflammation is typically caused by repetitive strain or overuse.

Common Causes:

  • Overuse from high-impact activities such as running or jumping
  • Prolonged standing on hard surfaces
  • Poor footwear with inadequate support
  • Obesity, which adds extra stress on the feet
  • Age-related changes in the foot

Symptoms to Look Out For:

  • Sharp, stabbing pain in the heel or bottom of the foot, especially upon waking up or after periods of inactivity
  • Increased pain after exercise (not during)
  • Swelling in the heel
  •  

How Physical Therapy at PT&SR Can Help Treat Plantar Fasciitis

Physical therapy is a highly effective treatment for plantar fasciitis. At Physical Therapy and Sports Rehab, we offer a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. Our techniques include:

Manual Therapy:

Hands-on techniques to massage and stretch the plantar fascia and surrounding muscles, which helps to reduce tension and improve mobility.

Therapeutic Exercises:

Customized exercise programs designed to strengthen the muscles in your foot and lower leg, which can provide better support to your plantar fascia.

Ultrasound Therapy:

Utilizing sound waves to stimulate blood flow and promote healing in the affected area.

Orthotics:

Specially designed shoe inserts that provide better arch support and reduce pressure on the plantar fascia.

Prognosis and Time to Recovery

With prompt and effective treatment, most patients experience significant improvement in their symptoms within a few weeks. Consistent physical therapy can lead to a full recovery in about 6 to 8 weeks, allowing you to return to your normal activities pain-free.

Take Action!

Don’t let plantar fasciitis keep you from enjoying your daily activities. At Physical Therapy and Sports Rehab, our experienced therapists are ready to help you achieve a pain-free life. Schedule an evaluation today to start your journey towards recovery. Contact us at 781-686-8667 or make an appointment.

By addressing your plantar fasciitis with professional care, you can take the first step towards a healthier, more active lifestyle. Don’t wait – let us help you get back on your feet!

We are here for you.

Our team of experienced Physical Therapists is ready to provide you with personalized care and effective treatment solutions. For more information or to schedule your first step towards relief and improved health, contact us at (781) 769-2040 or request an appointment online.

October is Physical Therapy Month! Prevent Injury with Regular Physical Therapy

October is Physical Therapy Month! Prevent Injury with Regular Physical Therapy

by | Oct 8, 2024 | Back Pain, Chronic Pain, News, Physical Therapy Benefits, Physical Therapy Month October, Physical Therapy Norfolk MA, Physical Therapy Norwood MA

National Physical Therapy Month: Why You Don’t Need to Be in Pain to See a Physical Therapist!

October is National Physical Therapy Month, a time to raise awareness about the benefits of physical therapy (PT) and how it can help people of all ages lead healthier, more active lives. Most people associate PT with injury recovery or chronic pain management, but did you know that you don’t need to be in pain to see a physical therapist? PT can be an essential part of your preventative care, helping you stay active, strong, and pain-free for years to come.

Whether you’re an athlete, a busy professional, or a senior wanting to maintain mobility, physical therapy can be a game-changer.

What Can Physical Therapy Do for You—Even If You’re Not in Pain?

  1. Prevent Injuries Before They Happen

You don’t have to wait until you’re injured to see a physical therapist. PTs can help identify muscle imbalances, poor movement patterns, or weaknesses that might lead to injury later on. By addressing these issues early, you can prevent problems before they begin.

Many people in Norwood, MA, search for physical therapists after an injury—but seeing a PT before you get hurt can keep you active and doing what you love, whether it’s sports, gardening, or just playing with your kids.

  1. Improve Posture and Mobility

Poor posture and reduced mobility can develop over time due to desk jobs, lack of movement, or aging. These issues can sneak up on you and cause pain later on. Regular sessions with a physical therapist can improve your posture, joint mobility, and overall flexibility, reducing the risk of developing future pain or stiffness.

  1. Enhance Athletic Performance

If you’re an athlete, you know that peak performance requires more than just practicing your sport. Physical therapists can help enhance your training by identifying areas where you can improve strength, endurance, and agility. This kind of preventive care can reduce downtime from injury and keep you performing at your best.

  1. Support Healthy Aging

As we age, it’s natural for our bodies to experience changes in muscle strength, balance, and flexibility. But physical therapy can help you age more gracefully! PTs work with patients of all ages to maintain and even improve physical function, helping seniors stay active, independent, and mobile.

Why Choose PTSR for Your Preventative Care?

At Physical Therapy and Sports Rehab (PTSR) in Norwood and Norfolk, MA, we pride ourselves on offering personalized care that’s designed to meet your unique needs—whether you’re in pain or just looking to improve your health. Our skilled therapists don’t just treat injuries; we help prevent them and promote lifelong wellness.

And the best part? We have NO waitlist, so you can start feeling better right away! Call us at (781) 769-2040 to schedule an appointment. We can often see new patients as soon as this week!

Real Patients, Real Results

Still not sure if physical therapy is right for you? Here’s what some of our happy patients have to say:

  • “The care I’ve received at PTSR has been outstanding! My physical therapist listened to my concerns and created a plan that not only helped with my pain but also improved my overall mobility.” – [Patient Review]
  • “I was amazed at how quickly I started seeing results. The team at PTSR is professional, knowledgeable, and truly cares about their patients’ progress.” – [Patient Review]

Don’t Wait to Feel Better!

You don’t need to be in pain to benefit from physical therapy. Whether you want to prevent injuries, improve your mobility, or enhance your athletic performance, our experienced team at PTSR in Norwood is here to help.

Call us today at (781) 769-2040 to schedule your appointment. With NO waitlist, you can get started on your journey to better health this week!

Physical Therapy for Every Age and Stage of Life

Physical therapy is about more than just recovering from injuries; it’s about taking control of your health and wellness. At PTSR, we believe that everyone can benefit from physical therapy, whether you’re in pain, recovering from an injury, or just looking to prevent future problems. Take advantage of National Physical Therapy Month and make an appointment today!

We are here for you.

Our team of experienced Physical Therapists is ready to provide you with personalized care and effective treatment solutions. For more information or to schedule your first step towards relief and improved health, contact us at (781) 769-2040 or request an appointment online.

Managing Chronic Pain: Effective Physical Therapy Techniques

Managing Chronic Pain: Effective Physical Therapy Techniques

by | Aug 15, 2024 | Back Pain, Chronic Pain, News, Physical Therapy Norfolk MA, Physical Therapy Norwood MA

Chronic pain is a debilitating condition that affects millions of people worldwide, impacting daily life, work, and overall well-being. Unlike acute pain, which is temporary and usually a signal of injury or illness, chronic pain persists for months or even years, often without a clear cause. While managing chronic pain can be challenging, physical therapy offers a range of techniques that can help alleviate discomfort and improve quality of life.

Understanding Chronic Pain

Chronic pain can result from various conditions, including arthritis, fibromyalgia, back pain, neuropathy, and even post-surgical pain. It’s important to understand that chronic pain is not just a physical sensation but also a complex interplay of psychological, emotional, and social factors. This is why a multidisciplinary approach, including physical therapy, is often the most effective way to manage it.

The Role of Physical Therapy in Pain Management

Physical therapy (PT) is a cornerstone of chronic pain management. A skilled physical therapist works closely with patients to develop personalized treatment plans that address the specific nature and location of their pain. The goal is not only to reduce pain but also to improve function, mobility, and overall quality of life.

Effective Physical Therapy Techniques for Chronic Pain

  • Exercise Therapy: One of the most fundamental components of physical therapy for chronic pain is exercise. Tailored exercise programs, including stretching, strengthening, and aerobic conditioning, help improve flexibility, build muscle strength, and enhance endurance. Regular physical activity also stimulates the release of endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers, helping to reduce pain perception. 
  • Manual Therapy: Techniques like massage, joint mobilization, and myofascial release can be incredibly effective in alleviating pain. These hands-on methods help reduce muscle tension, improve circulation, and increase range of motion, providing relief from pain and stiffness.
  • Therapeutic Modalities: Physical therapists often use various modalities such as heat therapy, cold therapy, ultrasound, and electrical stimulation (TENS) to target specific areas of pain. These treatments can reduce inflammation, promote healing, and provide temporary relief from pain.
  • Posture and Body Mechanics Education: Poor posture and improper body mechanics can exacerbate chronic pain, particularly in the back, neck, and joints. Physical therapists teach patients how to maintain proper posture, perform daily activities safely, and avoid movements that could worsen pain.
  • Aquatic Therapy: Exercising in water reduces the strain on joints and muscles, making it an excellent option for those with severe pain or mobility issues. The buoyancy of water supports the body, allowing for easier movement and less pain during exercise.
  • Pain Neuroscience Education (PNE): Understanding the science behind pain can empower patients to manage their symptoms more effectively. PNE helps patients learn about how pain works in the brain and body, reducing fear and anxiety, which can often amplify pain sensations.
  • Mind-Body Techniques: Physical therapists may incorporate mind-body techniques such as relaxation exercises, deep breathing, and mindfulness to help patients manage the psychological aspects of chronic pain. These practices can reduce stress, improve mental health, and complement physical therapy techniques.

Conclusion

Managing chronic pain is a multifaceted process that requires a personalized approach. Physical therapy offers a wide range of techniques that can be tailored to each individual’s needs, providing not only relief from pain but also a pathway to improved function and a better quality of life. If you’re struggling with chronic pain, consulting with a physical therapist could be a crucial step toward reclaiming control over your life and well-being.

By combining the expertise of the physical therapists at PT&SR with a commitment to ongoing care, patients can find lasting relief and the ability to engage more fully in daily activities. Remember, chronic pain doesn’t have to define your life—effective physical therapy can help you manage it and live more comfortably.

We are here for you.

Our team of experienced Physical Therapists is ready to provide you with personalized care and effective treatment solutions. For more information or to schedule your first step towards relief and improved health, contact us at (781) 769-2040 or request an appointment online.

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