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Tag Archive North Light Physiotherapy

Neurological Rehab at North Light Physiotherapy

Chris Shorter North Light PhysiotherapyFor our latest blog, Chris Shorter, our Neurological Rehab specialist at North Light Physiotherapy discusses the specifics on offer

“Physiotherapy is strongly recommended in the national guidelines for rehab and management of neurological conditions”, he says.

Experience
From working in the field of neuro-rehab for over 14 years now, Chris has seen its effectiveness first hand in many ways.  Conditions treated include, but aren’t limited to Parkinsons Disease, Multiple Sclerosis and Stroke. Neurological disorders and disease are vast. Chris relishes the variety, and the challenge this variety presents, and takes an enormous amount of satisfaction in patient outcomes.

Chris says: “We are now very happy to offer assessments and treatments at North Light Physiotherapy, either in our clinic or in our spacious gym setting, which has level access. We know that in some cases mobility can be severely limited, so we can also offer the option of home visits. *”   (* – within a maximum range of 3 miles from the Clinic)

Neurological physiotherapy Rehab North Light Physiotherapy

Expectation

“Physiotherapy begins with a thorough assessment: gaining information on the patients’ goals and targets for rehab / condition management.  A typical physical assessment may include assessment of movement, strength, muscle tone, balance and gait pattern. There are also more condition-specific assessments that we would include, depending on the presentation.”

“Treatment may entail work on improving movement and strength through a combination of exercise, hands on therapy and movement re-education. Advice on orthotics or walking equipment is also considered. Balance rehab and specific feedback on how to improve gait (walking) pattern is also a common approach. ”

Whether your problem is pain caused by your condition or balance problems, maybe even falls,  we would provide treatment or advice for this. A goal for many of our patients is to improve mobility levels. This can be broken down into more specific steps, and advice can be provided on the areas to work on along with education on what may be causing the current problems.

Treatment Specificity

As an example, one persons problem may be due to weakness around a specific joint or more than one joint, for another it may be due to higher level balance problems; the role of the physiotherapist is to identify the contributing factors causing the problem and to provide specific advice on how to work on this.

Living with a neurological condition that can often be for the long term can be a strain on our resources and motivation. However a therapeutic alliance between physio and patient is key. We give our patients the time they need to discuss how their conditions impacts on their wellbeing, because an empathic listening approach is therapy in itself and helps the rehab process.

One on one rehab can be a very motivating experience and achievement of goals is rewarding no matter how small…and when our patients takes control of their condition, that’s our favourite outcome!

For details of how we can help with your Neurological condition, get in touch!

To book an appointment with Chris Shorter or any of our expert Team at North Light Physiotherapy Associates, PLEASE DO NOT LEAVE A COMMENT HERE ~ Use our Contact form, or call us on 01484 660663. 

Sports Massage at North Light Physiotherapy

Who can benefit from Sports Massage?

Sports Massage at North Light Physiotherapy

Sports Massage is useful for various problems, not just in a sports context. Often muscles can feel tight or stiff after heavy or repeated physical activity this can be sporting, occupational or recreational. Muscular tightness and restriction can be reduced, and pain alleviated as part of a more broad based management strategy that may form part of a regular training programme, or a course of Physiotherapy or rehabilitation.

Expertise

Our team have a wealth of experience and expertise.  We have worked with professional sports people, and this experience is invaluable in working with athletes at all levels and abilities.  We can support you, whether in preparation for athletic events, such as endurance running, cycling sportives, or if you only take part in your favourite activities for fun and wellbeing.

To book your Sports Massage, call North Light Physiotherapy on 01484 660663 or head over to our Contact page – looking forward to seeing you!

Shockwave Therapy at North Light Physiotherapy

Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy for Musculoskeletal Conditions

Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) has been successfully used for the management of a variety of musculoskeletal conditions for over 20 years. It is now available at North Light Physiotherapy!

In Urology, shockwaves are used to disintegrate kidney stones, whereas in Musculoskeletal medicine, its use is to induce tissue repair and regeneration on a cellular level. The mechanism by which this takes place is not fully understood, despite many studies showing positive outcomes in a variety of conditions.

Principle of Treatment

Shockwave patterns differ from Ultrasound waves, in that ESWT generates significantly higher pressure. Primarily, this generates a mechanical force focussed on the target tissue. This generates a response within the target cells, and in areas around the target tissue. Many patients we treat with ESWT present with tendon pain- commonly in the Achilles, knee-cap (Patellar) tendon, the Plantar Fascia, and at the elbow (so called “tennis elbow”, or lateral epicondylitis), or shoulder.

Problems with tendons seem to occur more frequently with a big and relatively sudden increase in physical workload. Examples include suddenly running much further than usual, suddenly lifting more heavily in the gym or other physical activity, such as CrossFit.

When people are new to physical exercise, problems can occur during the time it takes for the body to develop the robustness to tolerate more physical work. For this reason, ESWT will only ever form part of the overall treatment, because sensible management of physical workload, in view of individual physical capacity, is the key to success.

If you believe ESWT may be appropriate to help manage your problem, we will always consider this as a management option as part of a comprehensive assessment. ESWT as a standalone treatment, is likely to be less effective than when combined with comprehensive Physiotherapy care.

Plantar Fasciopathy (Fasciitis)

Many studies have shown ESWT to be effective in the treatment of Plantar Fasciopathy. Success rates vary between 34% to 88%. This may depend on severity of the problem, and how long the condition has been present before treatment. Good quality evidence suggests that treatment must incorporate a suitable loading programme (Physiotherapy-type exercise).  This ensures the Plantar Fascia retains/improves its ability to tolerate the force required for exercise.

Achilles Tendinopathy (Tendonitis)

A common problem with runners, the Achilles tendon may generate symptoms in the mid-portion (half way up), or at its insertion into the heel bone (calcaneus). The insertional Achilles pains tend to be more stubborn to settle. However, studies have shown that both insertional and mid-portion Achilles problems are responsive to ESWT. In many cases, runners will present to our specialist running clinic, during which we may discuss and suggest modifications to running gait, and recommend modifications to running workload (distance, intensity).

Patellar Tendinopathy (Tendonitis)

 

 

Another frequent problem with running athletes, powerlifters and CrossFit-ers. Success rates have been reported to be as high as 74-88% with ESWT. Commonly, knee and hip control issues can play a part in the onset of problems, and will need addressing as part of a comprehensive treatment regime. Our specialist Running Clinic often identifies related areas to improve on, to modify and improve on pain and control of the knee.

Shin Splints (Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome- MTSS)

Often seen in running athletes, and more frequently in females- sufferers will experience pain at the inner side of the shin. Particularly evident on landing, during running. Modifications can often be made to the ankle and foot, in respect of strength and control of the rear part of the foot during landing. Sometimes orthoses (in-soles in the trainers) can make a difference. ESWT has been shown in some studies to make a positive contribution to symptoms of MTSS, and others not so much. Again, ESWT will be considered as part of a course of Physiotherapy, which will address any contributing factors.

(Calcifying) Tendonitis of the Shoulder

 

Success rates for treatment with ESWT have been reported in the 78-91% range, in studies, with ongoing relief beyond 2 years. The benefits include improved joint movement, and therefore improved ability to use the arm, particularly in overhead activities.  Swimmers and other overhead athletes, such as racket-sport players, and bowlers (cricket) can tend to be affected. The effectiveness of ESWT is again supplemented by a good course of Physiotherapy rehab, and workload modification principles.

If you are affected by a problem for which ESWT may be useful, please do get in touch – North Light Physiotherapy will be pleased to support you. You can get in touch via our Contact page, or on 01484 660663. See you soon!

 

Chris Liversidge (MSc, BSc (Hons) MCSP, SRP) is Practice Principal at North Light Physiotherapy Associates, Huddersfield HD4 7NR.  Visit www.northlightphysio.co.uk or call 01484 660663

Ante Natal & Post Natal Pilates

Becky Walker North Light PhysiotherapyNorth Light Physiotherapy’s specialist Obstetric Physiotherapist Becky Walker tells us more about the benefits of Ante Natal & Post Natal Pilates

“I run the Pilates Classes here at North Light Physiotherapy.  My specialist Ante Natal / Post Natal Pilates classes are suitable from early pregnancy onwards – then once your baby is born, we’ll be ready to welcome you back after your 6 week postnatal check.

The class is a small group, so exercises can be tailored to suit each individual. All the exercises are safe for you and your baby, and will help your body to cope with the many changes it experiences throughout pregnancy and beyond.  The main focus of the classes are to:

  • Strengthen the abdominal and pelvic floor muscles
  • Maintain spinal flexibility/movement
  • Help reduce alterations in posture as the bump increases.

Pilates breathing techniques can also be very useful during labour.”

Pilates is highly recommended by physiotherapists for those experiencing Pelvic Girdle Pain (PGP).

Obstetric Physio and Ante Natal / Post Natal Pilates at North Light Physiotherapy HuddersfieldPelvic Girdle Pain (PGP)

PGP (previously known as SPD – Symphsis Pubis Dysfunction) can occur at any stage during or after pregnancy and birth.  PGP is caused by an asymmetry of movement within the joints of the pelvis and lower back, this causes pain and difficulty moving.  Find out more at The Pelvic Partnership’s website.

 

Symptoms of PGP:

  • Pain and stiffness in pelvic joints
  • Difficulty walking, climbing stairs and turning over in bed
  • Pain and dysfunction can last for months or years without treatment

Treatment of PGP:

  • Manual therapy is the most effective treatment
  • PGP is treatable at any stage during pregnancy and postnatal – Hormone levels can’t be altered, but joint asymmetry can!
  • Manual therapy treatment of the pelvic joints and soft tissue is safe and effective, both during and after pregnancy
  • Breastfeeding can have a positive effect in recovery
  • You can resolve your symptoms with early diagnosis and treatment
  • Research* has shown that women who don’t have manual therapy can experience pain for months or years after the birth of their baby

For more information about pre or post-natal Obstetric Physiotherapy, or to book a Pilates Class with Becky, click our Contact page or call 01484 660663

North Light Physiotherapy Associates Ltd are registered with all major healthcare insurers

*Research: Pelvic girdle pain: The Stickmum project 3 years forward. British Journal of Midwifery, Nov.2018, Vol.26 No.11

North Light Physiotherapy and Heart Yorkshire

We’re supporting Heart Yorkshire’s “Coast to Coast” Challenge

Heart Yorkshire Breakfast Show presenter Emma Lenney is taking on an epic challenge this week – and North Light Physiotherapy will be there to help her on her way!

The Heart Yorkshire Coast to Coast Challenge will see Radio star Emma kayaking and cycling 163 miles across the country from Liverpool to Goole.  It’s going to be tough – so North Light Physiotherapy’s Chris Liversidge is going to be there to provide expert care, and keep Emma in tip-top condition as she completes her journey.

Follow Emma’s progress on Heart’s Facebook page, and Chris will be keeping us up to date on our North Light Facebook, Twitter and Instagram feeds.

Good luck Emma, from all the team at North Light Physiotherapy!

 

Extended Scope Physiotherapy at North Light

North Light Physiotherapy Associates’ Practice Principal, Chris Liversidge, is an Extended Scope Physiotherapist (ESP)

What does Chris’s expertise mean for you?

In a nutshell, being treated by an Extended Scope Physiotherapst often means faster differential diagnosis of acute physical injuries, and many other longer term musculo-skeletal conditions.

ESPs are able to work beyond what is usually recognised as standard Physiotherapy practice.

However, many people will suffer an injury or acute muscular problem (for example, following a fall or accident, an episode of back pain or a sporting injury) and assume their GP is the best place to go.

Waiting times can be long, and GPs don’t always have the depth of up-to-date developments in physical medicine –  so whilst they may usefully prescribe painkillers or anti-inflammatories, combining this with a course of immediate Physiotherapy treatment may actually be far more successful than pain relief alone.

When you are suffering acute pain, an Extended Scope Physiotherapist (ESP) often provides:

  • a faster differential diagnosis of the injury/problem
  • more specific treatment
  • a faster recovery and return to normal function
  • If tests or other medical investigations are required, an Extended Scope Physiotherapist can recommend which is most suitable to request, and in many cases, directly order investigations.

A faster solution to pain – that’s got to be a winner!

 

Extended Scope Physiotherapy North LightWhat does the term “Extended Scope Physiotherapy” actually mean?

Extended Scope Physiotherapy (ESP) practice is growing in prominence, both in private medicine and in the NHS.  On their website, Cumbria Partnership NHS Foundation Trust describe an ESP as:

“A Clinical Physiotherapy Specialist with an extended scope of practice.  This implies working beyond the recognised scope of Physiotherapy practice, for example requesting investigations (ultrasound scans/nerve conduction studies), using the results of investigations to assist clinical diagnosis and appropriate management of patients; listing for surgery, and referring to other professionals.  ESP’s hold post-graduate qualifications (eg. MSc), Society of Orthopaedic Medicine (SOM) membership or equivalent, and most have a Diploma in Injection Therapy.”

You can also find out more about the work of Extended Scope Physiotherapists at www.CSP.org.uk

To work at this level requires a number of years of experience, with a wide variety of conditions.                             Critically, this involves identifying conditions which are not suitable for Physiotherapy, as quicly as possible, and referring on to the correct specialist, as soon as possible.

To make an appointment with Chris Liversidge or any of our expert Team at North Light Physiotherapy, use our Contact form or call 0845 177 0780

5 Keys to Healthy Knees – use our expertise!

Having specialised in the rehabilitation of lower limb injuries, and particulary knee injuries, for many years now, I have observed 5 key objectives to achieve quickly to optimise knee function. This is irrespective of whether the rehab is post- injury, or post-operative. With these 5 goals in place, the knee will quickly function more normally.

1. Reduce swelling.

After an injury to structures inside the knee, it will swell- an effusion. This is known to cause reflex muscle inhibition, which can cause the quadriceps muscle to switch off, and the knee to feel as though it may give way. Minimise the effusion to optimise quads activity.

2. Restore full Active Extension.

The ability to actively fully straighten the knee is critical. This is the ability for you to switch on and tense your front thigh muscle (Quadriceps) by choice.  If this is not possible, you cannot actively keep yourself upright on your feet- the knee will give way.

3. Restore full Passive Extension.

This is the ability of an external force, i.e not you or your quadriceps muscle, to straighten your knee: e.g. ability for it to sag straight under the weight of gravity, or for someone (usually a Physio, when testing the knee), to pull it into a fully straight position. If this is not possible, it may indicate something inside the knee is mechanically blocking it. This must be dealt with quickly, as a block to extension left untreated can leave the knee stiff in the long-term, and will disable your ability to actively straighten your knee, and may again lead to giving-way or buckling of the knee.

4. Mobilise the Patella.

The patella (kneecap) is free to be moved within a specific range when the knee is relaxed. Often, usually after surgery, this ability for the kneecap to be freely moved is limited, and can have a consequential negative impact on the ability to develop quadriceps strength, and cause kneecap pain.  This can be restored by manual therapy during Physio sessions.

5. Normalise Gait.

The walking (gait) cycle is often significantly affected by pain/stiffness after injury or surgery. The adaptations to the walking pattern, if left unaddressed, can have significant negative effects on knee health: loss of movement, stiffness, muscle shortening and quadriceps inhibition. Normalising the gait cycle as quickly as possible is critical to knee health!

If you, or anyone you know are affected by these problems, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. Our expertise will get you on the path to healthy knees in no time!!

 

To book an appointment with the experts at North Light Physiotherapy, PLEASE DO NOT LEAVE A COMMENT HERE! 

Call us on 01484 660663,  or pop over to our Contact page