Stress Fracture Symptoms: What You Need to Know
Have you ever felt a sharp pain that started after exercise or a long walk? If the ache persists and worsens when applying pressure, you may have a stress fracture. As a physical therapist who’s worked with many older adults recovering from a variety of fractures, I’m passionate about helping older adults understand, manage, and […]
A Physical Therapist’s Perspective on Knee Pain When Bending
Have you ever felt pain or discomfort in your knee when you bend it? Or maybe a dull ache that lingers after you straighten it? If so, don’t panic just yet! Knee pain when bending is a common challenge for older adults, and it can have various causes. While it can be significant in some […]
Improving Bone Strength Before Surgery: A Guide for Older Adults
Strong bones can provide the strength and resilience to bounce back quickly from surgery and prevent common injuries as you age. Improving your bone strength starts with increasing bone density, which is essential for maintaining strong, healthy bones. As we age, conditions caused by a loss of bone density, like osteoporosis and osteopenia, become more […]
How to Pick the Best Shoes for Bunions
Bunions occur when the alignment or size of bones in your foot changes. This causes the big toe to lean toward the smaller toes and a bump to form at the base of the big toe. Bunions can cause pain, swelling, restricted movement, and calluses. Early identification and proper management are crucial to slowing or […]
Low Back Pain in Older Adults: What It Is, Why It Happens, and How to Treat It
Low back pain is a common problem that affects many older adults. While it may feel difficult to live with low back pain at times, several practical approaches to managing low back pain can help you stay active year after year.
How to Fix Flared Ribs: Physical Therapy Exercises and Posture Tips
Posture affects many aspects of your life, from balance and movement to long-term health and well-being. If you have been told that you have flared ribs, you may wonder how they impact your posture and what you can do to fix them. Flared ribs are not always a problem, but they can sometimes indicate shallow […]
Creaky Shoulders? What To Do For Shoulder Crepitus
Have you noticed your shoulders crackling, popping, or feeling stiff? This phenomenon, known as shoulder crepitus, can be both bothersome and disruptive to your shoulder’s comfort and mobility. Understanding the causes of these sensations and learning how to manage them effectively can significantly improve your shoulder health. In this article, we’ll explore the causes, symptoms, […]
Fire Hydrant Exercises: The Ultimate Guide
If you need easily accessible and practical hip exercises, “fire hydrant” exercises may be a great option. Although simple, many older adults consider this exercise a big help in their wellness routine. Of course, understanding why these exercises are helpful and knowing how to use them properly is essential for getting the results you want. […]
How to Deal with Knee Bursitis: Exercises, Treatments & Tips
Do you feel pain or stiffness in your knee when you walk, kneel, or bend? Or perhaps you’ve noticed persistent swelling around your kneecap? If so, you might have knee bursitis, which affects many active adults. Knee bursitis is an inflammatory condition of the knee that can interfere with your daily activities and affect your […]
The Best Knee Exercises for Seniors
Knee pain can be a major obstacle to enjoying everyday activities, especially for seniors. But did you know simple knee exercises for seniors can help prevent joint pain and improve balance? Whether dealing with arthritis, past injuries, or just the natural wear and tear of aging, maintaining strong and flexible knees is essential for a […]
Jaw Exercises to Relieve TMJ Pain
Chronic pain in the jaw is widespread, especially among people over sixty-five. TMJ pain can also accompany many conditions, making it challenging to figure out the exact cause without proper screening. Fortunately there are a handful of reliable jaw exercises to relieve TMJ pain. Performing jaw exercises can significantly impact pain for many types of […]
Crackling Knees? Here’s Knee Crepitus Exercises That Help
If you’ve ever wondered about the crackling sounds your knees make when you bend or extend them, you might be experiencing a common occurrence known as knee crepitus. This article will unravel the mystery behind these curious noises and share some practical exercises for pain relief and joint mobility. Understanding Knee Crepitus Your knee joint […]
Simple Hand Stretches and Exercises for Pain Relief
If you are experiencing pain in your hands while doing simple tasks like holding a cup or turning a doorknob, know you are not alone. Hand and wrist pain is a common issue that can affect people of all ages, but it becomes more prevalent as we age. The good news is that simple exercises […]
Choosing the Right Shoe Orthotics
Low back, knee, and foot pain are common concerns for many older adults. As we age, finding strategies to help limit and prevent musculoskeletal pain becomes even more important. One popular solution for these problems is using arch supports or shoe inserts, also known as orthotics. Should older adults use arch supports and shoe inserts? If […]
Understanding Heel Pain in Seniors: Causes, Treatments, and Prevention
Maintaining mobility and independence is one of our most important well-being priorities as we age. However, heel pain, a common and debilitating condition for many seniors, can hinder our ability to stay active and engaged in daily activities. This article will explore heel pain, its common (and some less common) causes, the importance of accurate […]
Essential Exercises for Spinal Stenosis to Enhance Spinal Health
If your doctor has recommended exercises for spinal stenosis, you’re on the path to regaining mobility and reducing discomfort. Spinal stenosis can make daily activities challenging, but with the right exercises, significant relief is within reach. This article will introduce you to effective exercises for spinal stenosis, such as the Counter Stretch and Child’s Pose […]
Golfer’s Wrist Pain and Exercises That Help
Wrist pain can be a frustrating problem for various athletes, but there’s a reason “golfer’s wrist” is named for the sport. This article will explore what causes golfer’s wrist, treatment options, and how to manage wrist pain with exercise so you can keep playing golf. What is Golfer’s Wrist? The term golfer’s wrist describes pain due to tendinitis, […]
Exercises For Tech Neck
Stress from reading the news online isn’t the only downside to computer use: our increased reliance on technology may also be harming our posture and our bodies. Sitting with your head drooping while looking at your phone or tablet causes stress, leading to unnecessary neck and shoulder pain. Fortunately, you can relieve pain with commonsense […]
Swayback Posture: Causes, Risks, and Treatment
Do you feel an increased pressure in your lower back or a sensation of your upper body leaning backward? Do you notice your stomach protruding or your pelvis tilting forward? If so, you may have what’s known as a “swayback” posture, also called hyperlordosis. This condition results in a pronounced arch in the lower back […]
Exercises Provide Home Remedies for Foot Neuropathy
Foot neuropathy is a common problem for seniors, and knowing how to manage this condition can be challenging. While various factors can cause this problem and can significantly impact your daily activities and quality of life, there are exercises you can use to help improve the health of your feet. Let’s explore some causes of […]
The 5 Best Foot Exercises For Seniors
As you age, taking good care of your feet is essential. Taking preventive steps and incorporating simple exercises into your daily routine will provide lasting benefits and help maintain mobility as you grow older. This article will introduce you to our favorite foot exercises for seniors to keep you moving and pain-free. From strengthening muscles […]
The Best Hip Exercises for Seniors
If you suffer from hip pain, you are not alone. One study found that roughly fourteen percent of people over sixty reported significant hip pain on most days, while more than eighteen percent of inactive seniors reported severe hip pain in the previous month. Hip pain can make bending, walking, putting on shoes, and other […]
Neck & Back Pain: Driving Without Pain
If you’ve ever had neck and back pain, you know that it can make simple activities like driving your car uncomfortable. For many older adults, finding strategies to improve comfort during driving can make a big difference in everyday life. By making the proper car seat adjustments and creating an action plan, you can enjoy […]
Building Bone Density Naturally With Weight-Bearing Exercises
As we age, our bodies demand more care and attention, especially when it comes to bone health. Weight-bearing exercises are pivotal for building bone density naturally and improving overall health and wellness. Whether it’s a simple walk around the neighborhood or engaging in squats and lunges at home, these exercises offer many benefits. They aid […]
MASH Treatment for Low Back and Hip Pain
Low back and hip pain are often more than passing discomfort; they can lead to significant health issues that impact independence and quality of life, especially for older adults. Understanding the relationship between the hip and lower back is crucial for addressing the root causes of pain and finding effective treatment solutions. The MASH treatment […]
What Are the Benefits of Lumbar Traction? A Physical Therapist Explains
Lumbar traction, a practice with roots in ancient civilizations, has evolved into a sophisticated technique for managing lower back pain. By applying controlled forces to the spine, lumbar traction alleviates pressure on spinal discs and nerves, relieving various spinal conditions. Understanding the types of traction, its effects, and the indications and contraindications is essential for […]
Working With Wide Feet: Solutions That Help
Understanding the causes and solutions for wide feet is essential for anyone experiencing discomfort or difficulties finding suitable footwear. Wide feet can result from genetics, medical conditions, or lifestyle factors like aging and weight gain. If not addressed properly, these factors can lead to pain, discomfort, and complications. This article delves into the primary causes […]
The Best Shoulder Mobility Exercises
Maintaining shoulder mobility is essential for everyday activities and overall quality of life, especially as we age. This article explores the significant benefits of shoulder mobility exercises, which include reducing pain and inflammation, preventing injuries, improving posture, and enhancing performance in physical activities. We’ll focus on various exercise types—dynamic stretches, static stretches, resistance exercises, and […]
The Power of Your Glutes: All About Hip Extension
Welcome to our exploration of hip extension—an essential exercise for adults of any age. In a society that is becoming more sedentary by the year, hip extension exercises are great for counteracting some of the impacts of sitting in a chair or on the couch all day. Hip extension exercises target the glutes, the muscles […]
Our Eight Favorite Exercises For Frozen Shoulder
JUMP TO EXERCISES If you’ve been experiencing stiffness and pain in your shoulder, you might be dealing with a condition known as frozen shoulder. This condition (also known as adhesive capsulitis in the medical community) isn’t as icy as it sounds. Still, it can be quite a pain, literally. It develops slowly through three stages: […]
How to Deal With A Crick in the Neck
Are you dealing with a crick in the neck? This is a common problem for many people, but why does it happen in the first place? Understanding the causes and managing this discomfort can significantly relieve this common complaint. It’s sometimes difficult to describe this feeling besides calling it a tweak, hitch, catch, or even […]
Exercises for Hip Bursitis
If you’ve ever experienced hip pain, you know that it can be agitating and limit your daily activities. One of the more common varieties of hip pain is hip bursitis (or trochanteric bursitis). In this article, we’ll explain what hip bursitis is and explore some options for which exercises for hip bursitis will make you […]
What You Need to Know About Neck Pain: Causes, Symptoms, and Solutions
Neck pain is something many of us will deal with, especially as we get older. It’s more than just a stiff neck now and then; it’s a real problem for about 30% of us each year. In this article, we will closely examine the neck, learn why it can begin to hurt, and share some […]
A Guide to Choosing the Right Knee Brace
Choosing the right knee brace can be crucial if you’re experiencing knee pain, planning to engage in sports, or recovering from surgery. This article will guide you through the three primary types of knee braces: prophylactic, best for high-impact activities; functional, tailored for specific knee issues like arthritis; and rehabilitative, ideal for post-surgical recovery and […]
A Guide to Managing Degenerative Scoliosis
Degenerative scoliosis affects many adults, resulting from age-related changes such as disc degeneration, osteoporosis, and arthritis. This condition manifests with symptoms that include lower back pain, changes in posture, and difficulties in walking. The risk of developing degenerative scoliosis increases with age, lifestyle choices, and previous spinal injuries. Diagnosing this condition requires thorough physical exams […]
Understanding and Managing Hip Flexor Pain
Do you feel a stubborn pain in the front of your hip when you walk, get out of a chair, or stand up? Hip flexor pain is a common condition that can make it difficult for older adults to participate in daily life and be tricky to overcome. Healthy hip flexors are important to your […]
The Hand Neuropathy Exercises Recommended by Physical Therapists
Do your hands often tingle with that frustrating “pins and needles” sensation? Are everyday activities such as buttoning a shirt or holding a pen increasingly challenging? You’re not alone. Hand neuropathy can affect anyone; as we age, it can become an even more common concern. But you don’t have to let hand neuropathy hold you […]
“Help! I Woke Up With Neck Pain And Can’t Turn My Head!”
There’s nothing quite like a good night’s sleep. But what happens when you wake up, ready to seize the day, only to be met with a sharp, restricting pain in your neck? Morning neck pain can be a jarring way to start the day, hindering your ability to perform routine tasks, including turning your head […]
Knee Pain When Going Up Stairs: Causes, Treatments & Prevention Tips
Is your regular journey up a flight of stairs starting to feel like a mountain trek due to knee pain? Many older adults experience knee pain when climbing stairs, but there are ways to treat this common problem. Knee pain isn’t a mandatory part of aging and is also not something you should ignore. Having […]
Understanding Headache Treatment: A Guide for Older Adults
Headaches, including migraines, tension, and cluster headaches, are a significant health issue globally, affecting nearly half of the adult population, as noted by the World Health Organization. These conditions span all ages, races, and socioeconomic groups, often presenting a challenge in identifying their root causes. This article will explore the various types of headaches, emphasizing […]
Knee Pain When Squatting: Causes, Prevention, and Treatment
Knee pain when squatting can be a frustrating barrier to maintaining an active lifestyle. If you’re living with knee pain that’s limiting your ability to bend and squat, don’t throw in the towel just yet! This type of pain can usually be treated with effective pain management, changes to certain activities, corrections to your squat […]
Choosing the Best Compression Socks
Has your doctor recently recommended compression socks to help remedy circulation problems? If so, you’re not alone. Poor circulation is a common complaint for many older adults, particularly in the legs, often leading to discomfort and health risks. Compression socks are a proven tool to help in this all-too-common scenario. These unique socks aid circulation, […]
How to Deal with Hip Pain While Sleeping
Do you suffer from hip pain that keeps you awake? If hip pain wakes you up at night, you are not alone. As a licensed physical therapist, I can verify that hip pain is a common complaint among older adults. It can affect sleep quality as well as overall health. But what causes hip pain […]
Spinal Decompression at Home: A Guide for Back Pain Prevention
Back pain can be frustrating, affecting our daily activities and overall quality of life. Spinal decompression at home could offer significant relief without visiting a hospital. So, what is spinal decompression exactly, and how can it be done in the comfort of your home? Decompression offers several advantages for older adults with chronic back pain […]
Achy Knees: The Facts About Knee Osteoarthritis
Knee osteoarthritis, the most prevalent joint disease globally, impacts over 240 million people. This condition can affect any joint, but it’s most commonly found in the knees, hips, hands, lower back, and neck. In the case of knee osteoarthritis, the cartilage wears down and becomes rough. As a result, the protective space and tissues within […]
Navigating Toenail Care: Essential Tips for Older Adults
As we age, taking care of our toenails becomes more important than ever, but it can also be more difficult for various reasons. Sometimes, toenail care might slip when dealing with other health issues. Toenail care is more than just looking good — it’s key for staying healthy and comfortable in our senior years. Ignoring […]
A Senior’s Guide to Peroneal Tendonitis
Experiencing discomfort along the outer side of your lower leg? This might be a sign of peroneal tendonitis. While not critical, it can interfere with daily activities, especially for older adults. In this article, we will explain what peroneal tendonitis is, how it is diagnosed and treated, and how to prevent it from happening through […]
How to Improve Circulation in the Legs & Feet
As a physical therapist, I deeply understand the significance of maintaining good circulation, especially for my older patients. This guide focuses on how to improve circulation in the legs and feet, an area crucial for overall health and mobility in seniors. In this article, we’ll explore the fundamentals of circulatory health, provide practical exercises, and […]
Rotator Cuff Surgery Recovery: What You Need to Know
Are you or a loved one facing the prospect of rotator cuff surgery? If so, you may have questions about the procedure and the rotator cuff surgery recovery process. From managing post-operative pain and inflammation to reaping the benefits of a tailored physical therapy program, this article will guide you through what to expect after […]
Arthroscopic Knee Surgery Recovery: Physical Therapist Advice
If your knee pain impacts your daily life and doesn’t improve with treatment, your doctor may recommend arthroscopic knee surgery. Arthroscopic knee surgery is a popular option today that can relieve pain, improve function, and help you return to your favorite activities. But how long does it take to recover from arthroscopic knee surgery? And […]
What Causes Swelling in the Feet & Ankles (And How to Fix It)
Have you ever tried putting on your shoes and felt they were tighter than usual or didn’t fit anymore? Or have you noticed a strong indentation in your skin left behind from your socks when taking them off at the end of the day? Swollen legs, ankles, and feet can be anxiety-provoking when you don’t […]
Neck Pain From Upper Cross Syndrome: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment
Upper Cross Syndrome (UCS) is a common yet often misunderstood condition that arises from poor postural habits. Characterized by a forward head posture and rounded shoulders, UCS can lead to chronic neck pain, reduced mobility, and even functional disability. This comprehensive guide delves into the causes, symptoms, and effective treatment strategies for Upper Cross Syndrome. […]
Understanding Bone Density Tests for Women: When and Why to Get Screened
Bone density is a simple way of measuring how strong our bones are. This becomes increasingly important as we age, particularly for women. Bone density is measured by the amount of calcium and other minerals in our bones. When these minerals are in short supply, conditions like osteopenia and osteoporosis can develop, leading to bones […]
Knee Replacement Recovery: A Guide for Older Adults
Does knee pain or stiffness seriously limit your daily activities? If so, you may be considering knee replacement surgery. Knee replacement surgery, also known as total knee arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure that replaces the damaged parts of your knee joint with artificial implants. In most cases, knee replacement relieves pain, improves mobility, and restores […]
Arthroscopic Shoulder Surgery: What You Need to Know
Are you struggling with shoulder pain or stiffness? If so, you may have heard of arthroscopic shoulder surgery as a potential treatment option. But what exactly is arthroscopic shoulder surgery, and how can it help you? Arthroscopic shoulder surgery is a specialized procedure that utilizes a small camera and instruments to address various shoulder problems, […]
Understanding Plantar Fasciitis: A Guide to Relief and Recovery
Have you ever experienced a sharp, stabbing pain in your heel when you take your first steps in the morning? Or perhaps you’ve felt a persistent ache in the arch of your foot that won’t go away. If so, you might be among the millions of active adults who have encountered a common yet often […]
Shoulder Impingement Exercises: How to Relieve Pain & Improve Mobility
What is shoulder impingement? Learn how to get to the bottom of this common condition with simple physical therapy exercises.
A Guide to Using a TENS Unit for Lower Back Pain Relief
Discover how a TENS unit can relieve lower back pain for seniors: its benefits, how to use it, and best practices for maximum benefit.
Navigating Your Shoulder Replacement Surgery Recovery Time
A walkthrough of the stages, exercises, self-care techniques and expected length of shoulder replacement surgery recovery time for seniors.
When Back Pain Isn’t Just Back Pain
Back pain is a common problem for older adults that can vary widely between individuals, but when is back pain an emergency? In some cases, back pain can be so debilitating that it feels like an emergency, yet many older adults aren’t sure when there is cause for worry. Knowing the difference between normal back […]
Navigating Spinal Fusion Surgery Recovery
Aging gracefully often comes with its fair share of challenges. Among these are the persistent neck and back aches that no number of massages or over-the-counter painkillers seem to alleviate. For some more serious cases, the proposed solution, often seen as a last resort, is spinal fusion surgery. Spinal fusion surgery is a major procedure […]
Understanding Dupuytren’s Contracture: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment & Prevention
Explore the symptoms, causes, and treatment options for Dupuytren’s Contracture, a common hand condition affecting seniors.
The Best Sitting Positions for Lower Back Pain
Explore causes of back pain in older adults from sitting and discover actionable solutions for comfort in daily scenarios.
How Can Hand Therapy Help Me?
Have you ever struggled with discomfort, stiffness, numbness, or a lack of strength in your hands or arms? You’re far from alone. Many seniors live with conditions that impair their hand and upper extremity function, but hand therapy can help. It can be frustrating when your hands don’t perform as you’re used to. These conditions […]
Unlocking Hip Rotation to Enhance Mobility and Prevent Injuries
Do you ever feel pain or stiffness in your hips when you walk, run, or exercise? Do you have trouble sitting in certain positions, moving your legs in different directions, or performing certain activities? If so, you might have a problem with your hip mobility, specifically your hip rotation. Hip rotation is the ability to […]
What Causes a Rounded Back?
A rounded back is an understandable concern for many older adults. While many seniors live with kyphosis or forward curvature of the upper spine, it is often a mysterious and poorly understood condition. It can be helpful to understand the basics of kyphosis and its various causes, its symptoms and diagnosis, and the best treatment options […]
Drug-Free Alternatives for Back Pain Relief: Why Medication May Not Be the Best Option
Back pain can make your favorite activities and your daily life more difficult. When new back pain or flare-ups arise, most people will do whatever they have to relieve pain and keep their symptoms under control. While medications are commonly prescribed to treat back pain, many older adults are now seeking drug-free alternatives for either […]
Quick Desk Exercises to Ease Shoulder Blade Pain: Expert Tips from a Physical Therapist
In this video, physical therapist Kathy Doubleday DPT, OCS, discusses how to alleviate pain between the shoulder blades caused by sitting at a computer for long periods. She suggests a few quick exercises that can be done while sitting at the desk. She recommends getting the back and thoracic spine up and taking a deep […]
Improve Your Shoulder Health with Three Expert Tips from a Physical Therapist
Physical therapist Dr. Kathy Doubleday shares three tips to decrease stress on our shoulders in this video. You will learn: How posture affects shoulder motion substantially. Adjusting our posture to a tall position before lifting an arm can naturally increase shoulder movement. Lifting arms in extreme positions or reaching across our body stresses our shoulders […]
Slipping a Disk: Exploring Disk Herniation
Up to 80% of individuals will suffer from back pain at some point in their lives, and in many cases, disc herniation is to blame. Despite being incredibly painful for some people, most cases improve with a few weeks to months of conservative treatment, including traditional medicinal and complementary options. Spinal Anatomy To better understand […]
Tennis Elbow vs. Golf Elbow
Are you experiencing persistent pain in your elbow? A variety of activities can cause elbow pain. Two of the most common elbow conditions are tennis elbow and golfer’s elbow or “golf elbow.” However, knowing whether you have tennis elbow or golf elbow can be tricky. While both conditions can be difficult to treat, understanding their […]
Exercises for Bone Strength
The Importance of Exercising with Osteoporosis Osteoporosis is fairly common, with an estimated 10 million people over the age of 50 suffering from this condition. And, about 43 million more people suffer from low bone mass, which puts them at an increased risk for osteoporosis. Osteoporosis is characterized by significant bone loss and decreased bone […]
An Active Adult’s Guide to AC Joint Arthritis
This guide provides seniors with a comprehensive understanding of AC joint arthritis, its causes, symptoms, treatments, and exercises.
Best Sleeping Position for Lower Back Pain
When you are dealing with back pain lying down on your back with your legs elevated on pillows or on the couch arm is the most decompressive position to rest the back and is the best place to start with acute pain. Low back pain is an extremely common complaint, with approximately 80% of the […]
Spinal Stenosis: The Other Cause of Back Pain
Lumbar spinal stenosis is a common condition, affecting more than 200,000 adults in the United States. Lumbar spinal stenosis is the most common reason for spinal surgery in patients over the age of 65; however, surgery has shown no significant benefit over conservative treatment options. If you have recently received a diagnosis of lumbar spinal […]
Sitting Not Helping Back Pain
“I’m trying to rest my back but it isn’t helping. Could sitting be causing my back pain?” -Daniel Daniel, you have a good thought that if you are in acute low back pain that resting may be a good option. However, you want to make sure you are not sitting to the point of it […]
Ask a PT: “What exercises help a sore back?”
What Exercises Help a Sore Back? In general you can break down low back pain into two major categories. Disorders that affect the front of the spine versus the back of the spine. (The front being the disc and surrounding tissues and the back being the joints and ligament structures called facet joints.) Disorders in the […]
