Does The Use of a Low Back Pain Brace Really Make a Difference?
December 21, 2011
“Do you think a back brace will help my condition?” 
This is a question that is frequently asked of many health care providers who treat low back pain. The answers typically vary, as there is support for and against the use of a brace when low back pain is present. In a Feb. 2009 study, the use of an elastic lumbar belt was studied in a group of subacute low back pain patients for its effect on functional capacity (lift and carry types of activities), pain intensity, and the effects on health care service costs. This study was unique in that it was carried out in several different locations and, the patients were randomized and received either a lumbar belt or nothing (“control group”). 197 patients were included in the study, which is a good sample size for research purposes. The results of the study, at the end of 90 days, revealed a higher score for the back brace treated group than the non-braced control group. The pain scale improved greater in the brace treated group as an improvement of 42 points vs. 32 points was reported. Similarly, 61% in the brace treated group used no medication compared to 40% in the non-braced group. It was concluded that patients with subacute low back pain improved significantly in functional status, pain reduction and medication utilization.
The use of back braces has been considered a “standard” in the treatment of patients with LBP for many years. One argument against using back braces centers around becoming “dependant” either physically or mentally on its use and this has long been a concern amongst health care providers. For most patients, this is not a concern as most do not “enjoy” the use of a brace and they look forward to discontinuing their use of it. Braces are particularly helpful when the patient cannot stop performing needed activities, such as work. This is especially true for farmers who have to tend to the animals and crops during planting, cultivating and harvest times of the year. In addition, single moms or dads who have to go to work in order to provide for their children are driven to stay on the job. In these cases, the use of a back brace can be of utmost importance.
There are many types of back braces. Some are narrow and are particularly favored when frequent bending and/or twisting movements are required by a job, sport, or other daily activity. Other braces are taller in the back and taper in the front, which give better support but still allow some bending / twisting movements. Some braces are more rigid and can actually stop movement in certain directions. These types include a hard, rigid surface that is placed in the area of the back where movement is not desired. These are used at times when there are fractures of the spine, after spinal surgery and in scoliosis bracing. Some braces are to be worn low on the pelvis to support that area, while most are placed in the center of the low back region. There are also rib belts sometimes used when ribs fracture, soft and rigid neck braces sometimes used after car accidents, and braces for the arms or legs. The decision to use a brace rests on the degree of injury and the patient’s ability to avoid certain activities or positions. When the injury is significant and/or the patient cannot control his/her activities (such as work), then the use of a brace may be one of the most important treatment approaches for that patient. It’s similar to having stitches when a deep or wide cut occurs. Ask us about the use of supports, braces, or belts if you or your family or friends are suffering with low back pain.
When considering a back brace for your back pain, our chiropractic and physical therapy clinics in Bayonne and Scotch Plains NJ can offer a professional recommendation for you. Our physicians come highly recommended by numerous physicians in Hudson and Union Counties. Feel free to contact us for a Free, In-Office Evaluation. If you are looking for faster service, give us a call at one of our two New Jersey locations. For our Bayonne, NJ location, call 201-339-8889, and for our Scotch Plains, NJ location, call us at 908-490-1800. Just tell them that you read this article and you will receive our complimentary in-office evaluation (a $145 value).
How Physical Therapy Helps Arthritis Pain
July 23, 2010
Growing older often means that you have time for the activities that you enjoy. From gardening and painting to playing your favorite sport, you don’t want anything to get in the way of the things that you enjoy the most.
However, if you suffer from arthritis, then that usually isn’t an option.
For arthritis sufferers, living with this all-too-common ailment typically means reducing the amount of time spent on enjoyable activities. Additionally, because arthritis – which means the inflammation of the joints – causes a great deal of aches, pain, swelling and even limited motion, many sufferers often have trouble carrying out even the simplest tasks, like typing on a keyboard, cooking and even reading a book.
Fortunately, there is a way for arthritis sufferers to fight back against their pain: physical therapy.
After being diagnosed by a medical expert, arthritis sufferers can choose to seek physical therapy as part of a comprehensive treatment, which may also include prescribed medication. Physical therapists and chiropractors who specialize in treating injured joints can teach clients simple yet effective exercises that will gently strengthen the joints, thus reducing the pain and inflammation commonly associated with arthritis. Physical therapists and chiropractors can also provide sufferers with splints that will immobilize the hand or wrist, which can work wonders for patients who experience sharp pain whenever they use their hands.
Physical therapy for arthritis pain can also provide you with vital information on how to combat your arthritis at home. For example:
- You’ll learn about the types of food that can strengthen your joints and muscles by providing much-needed vitamins and minerals.
- For sufferers with severe knee pain, your physical therapist or chiropractor will show you the kind of footwear which will alleviate pain and reduce the amount of pressure you place on your joints.
- You’ll discover the kind of at-home exercises that will alleviate any sudden pains that you may experience while enjoying your favorite activities. Additionally, your physical therapist or chiropractor will show you activity modifications that you can do should your arthritis pain become too severe.
Don’t let arthritis stop you from enjoying your life – discover how physical therapy can help your arthritis pain today!
When considering treatment for arthritis pain and inflammation, our physical therapy clinics in Bayonne and Scotch Plains NJ come highly recommended by numerous physicians in Hudson and Union Counties. Feel free to contact us for a Free, In-Office Evaluation. If you are looking for faster service, give us a call at one of our two New Jersey locations. For our Bayonne, NJ location, call 201-339-889, and for our Scotch Plains, NJ location, call us at 908-490-1800. Just tell them that you read this article and you will receive our complimentary in-office evaluation (a $145 value).
Physical Therapy for Tendonitis
June 23, 2010
Tendonitis – an inflammation of or around a tendon – might feel like nothing more than a sore muscle. But as anyone who has suffered from common forms of tendonitis – like “tennis elbow” and “Achilles tendonitis” – will tell you, it takes plenty of physical therapy to ease the aches and pains of this injury.
While it is possible to alleviate tendonitis, experts warn sufferers to avoid engaging in the activities that first caused the injury. According to Bob Mangine, chairman of the American Physical Therapy Association’s Sports Physical Therapy Section: “Continuing to use the tendon in the same repetitive motion that triggered the problem in the first place will make it very difficult to get better.” So no matter what the cause of the injury – whether you’ve got a vigorous golf swing or simply type too much – continuously engaging in that activity will severely hinder your chances of getting better.
But there are several pain-relief treatments that anyone can use; in fact, use these at-home treatments as a supplement to your physical therapy for tendonitis, and you should be seeing results in no time:
- While you’ll want to discontinue the activity that caused the tendonitis injury, don’t rest the muscle too much; in fact, muscle atrophy can actually aggravate tendonitis pain. That’s why it’s important to seek physical therapy for tendonitis, as it will prevent your muscles from growing weak.
- Keep the tendon warm by soaking it in a warm bath before and after engaging in activity. By increasing blood flow to the affected area, you’ll decrease any pain and soreness that you might otherwise feel from your exertions.
- Forget the old wives’ tale about bandages and braces: wrapping the affected area can actually help support your injured tendons. Just don’t wrap the area too tightly, as this can constrict blood flow and weaken the tendon altogether. And don’t forget to elevate the affected area after exercise to reduce any swelling!
- Physical therapy for tendonitis will help to speed up your tendon’s recovery; however, if you’re experiencing any pain during your therapy, it’s fine to seek relief from over-the-counter medication. Aspirin and other anti-inflammatory medications can reduce swelling and relieve pain, so you can continue on with your day.
When considering treatment for any kind of tendonitis, our physical therapy clinics in Bayonne and Scotch Plains NJ come highly recommended by numerous physicians in Hudson and Union Counties. Feel free to contact us for a Free, In-Office Evaluation. If you are looking for faster service, give us a call at one of our two New Jersey locations. For our Bayonne, NJ location, call 201-339-889, and for our Scotch Plains, NJ location, call us at 908-490-1800. Just tell them that you read this article and you will receive our complimentary in-office evaluation (a $145 value).
Hudson County Physical Therapy for Headaches
June 3, 2010
According to CNN Medical Correspondent Judy Fortin, Doctors estimate 80 percent of the population will suffer from a tension headache at some point. They can last from 30 minutes to a week.
Because headaches come from a variety of sources including stress, tension, trauma or even sleep problems, treatments that include relaxation for the muscles and body are going to help.
Physical therapists use a variety of techniques to help headache sufferers including exercise, posture education, massage, stretching, heat, ultrasound, ice, and other measures to reduce the muscular tightness sometimes associated with headaches. A massage therapist can also help to reduce muscle tightness and pain as well as helping to bring about a generally relaxed state.
For migraine sufferers, there is often tension in the neck associated with the migraine. Relaxing neck tension can help reduce the pain and discomfort brought on by the migraine. Physical therapists and trained massage therapists can use a variety of techniques including adjustments, massage, posture correction and movement correction to improve proper function in your joints and muscles.
Because of the connection between nerve endings in the jaw and neck, pain in those areas can actually be experienced in the head as a migraine. In such cases, physical therapy can help to reduce tension in the neck and jaw and to restore proper alignment and function. In addition, massage can help relieve neck tension and jaw tension that often leads to migraines.
When considering treatment for headaches, whether it’s a tension-type or migraine, our physical therapy clinics in Bayonne and Scotch Plains NJ come highly recommended by numerous physicians in Hudson and Union Counties. Feel free to contact us for a Free, In- Office Evaluation. If you are looking for faster service, give us a call at one of our two New Jersey locations. For our Bayonne, NJ location, call 201-339-8889, and for our Scotch Plains, NJ location call us at 908-490-1800. Just tell them that you read this article and you will receive our complimentary in-office evaluation (a $145 Value).
This information is solely advisory, and should not be substituted for medical or chiropractic advice. Any and all health care concerns, decisions, and actions must be done through the advice and counsel of a health care professional who is familiar with your updated medical history.
Article by Dr. Eric Chludzinski, DC. Dr. Chludzinski is the founder of Hudson Center for Spinal Care located in Bayonne and Scotch Plains, New Jersey. In preparation for his career, Dr. Chludzinski attended St. Peter’s College in Jersey City, NJ graduating in 1998 with a Bachelor of Science in Natural Science. He continued his studies at Life University School of Chiropractic in Marietta, GA graduating in the class of 2002 as a Doctor of Chiropractic. Dr. Chludzinski, DC services all of Union County and Hudson County in New Jersey.
Physical Therapy Exercises for Pediatric Scoliosis
May 26, 2010
Scoliosis is an abnormal curvature of the spine and can occur at any age. The condition of scoliosis is complex and no two patients with the condition are exactly the same. We treat many pediatric scoliosis patients at Hudson Spinal Care, because we offer a custom designed Physical Therapy treatment that consists of a regiment of traction, stretches, exercise, chiropractic manipulation, and electrical stimulation.
Physical therapy exercises will help tone and strengthen muscles, which can aid in living a more comfortable life by decreasing the level of everyday pain.
Physical therapy exercise for scoliosis helps stretch out the concave area of your spine. There are many exercises we recommend for scoliosis patients. Here are some common types of exercises, but it is always important to consult with your medical practitioner prior to any exercise regime.
- “Seated Twist”: Sit in a firm chair and straighten your spine. Slowly turn your entire upper body to one side. Hold, return to the original position. Turn to opposite side.
Back arch: While sitting, bend your back so that you slouch over. Feel the stretch. Hold. Return to upright position. Repeat. - “Concave arch” While sitting upright, stick out your chest until you feel a back stretch. Hold. Return to original position. Repeat.
- “Upper back stretch”: Lift one arm over your head with the elbow bent. Use your other arm to grab ahold of the other elbow. Gently pull toward your head. Hold. This stretches out your spinal column and loosens your upper back muscles. Relax and return to original position. Repeat with other arm. This exercise can also be done standing up.
- “Leg Lifts”: Lay on your back on a flat surface. Bend your knees. Lift one leg and cross it over the other. Put your hands behind your lower leg and intertwine your fingers underneath the knee area. Lift your leg off the ground. Pull both legs toward your upper body. Hold. Return to original position. Repeat with the opposite leg.
- “Back Arch”: This is also known as the Cat Pose in yoga, and according to Yoga Journal, this physical therapy exercise for scoliosis provides a gentle massage to your spine and internal organs. Get on the floor on your hands and knees. Gently arch your back so that your head is looking toward the floor.
Relaxation is a major key to a successful physical therapy program especially when children are involved. The trained physical therapists at Hudson Spinal Care are highly experienced in working with posture and movement disorders including scoliosis. All of our treatment plans will be done in a comfortable and pain free manner so that the child is receptive and rejuvenated by the treatment.
To learn more about Physical Therapy for Scoliosis, register for a Free, In- Office Evaluation. If you are looking for faster service, feel free to give us a call at one of our two New Jersey locations. For our Bayonne, NJ location, call 201-339-8889, and for our Scotch Plains, NJ location call us at 908-490-1800. Just tell them that you read this article and you will receive our complimentary in-office evaluation (a $145 Value).
This information is solely advisory, and should not be substituted for medical or chiropractic advice. Any and all health care concerns, decisions, and actions must be done through the advice and counsel of a health care professional who is familiar with your updated medical history.
Dr. Chludzinski has been treating neuropathic conditions for the past 5 years. He is the founder of Hudson Center for Spinal Care located in Bayonne and Scotch Plains, New Jersey. In preparation for his career, Dr. Chludzinski attended St. Peter’s College in Jersey City, NJ, graduating in 1998 with a Bachelor of Science in Natural Science. He continued his studies at Life University School of Chiropractic in Marietta, Georgia, graduating in the class of 2002 as a Doctor of Chiropractic. Dr. Chludzinski services all of Union and Hudson counties, including Bayonne, Jersey City, Hoboken, Harrison, Kearny, Newark, Elizabeth, Westfield, Clark, Fanwood, Plainfield, Watchung, Mountainside, Berkeley Heights and South Plainfield.
Physical Therapy for Low Back Pain
May 18, 2010
Numerous studies have estimated that approximately 80% of people in Western countries have experienced low back pain at some point in their lives. Most cases resolve within 2-4 weeks without any medical intervention. However, within 1 year following the first episode of low back pain, 60-80% of patients will have recurring pain. In most cases of low back pain, certain muscles of the back that stabilize the spine are reflexively inhibited (shutdown) after injury. These muscles do not spontaneously recover, even if patients are pain free and return to normal activity. Strengthening these specific muscles to support and stabilize the spine is the best approach to help prevent ongoing low back pain.
After an episode of low back pain has lasted between two and six weeks, or if there are frequent recurrences of low back pain, it is reasonable to consider back pain exercises and physical therapy for back treatment. If pain is severe, physical therapy may be recommended sooner. In general, the goals of back pain exercises and physical therapy are to decrease back pain, increase function, and provide education on a maintenance program to prevent further recurrences.
Physical therapists use passive and active therapies to treat patients. Passive therapies include heat/cold therapy, ultrasound, electrical stimulation, massage, and joint mobilization. Active therapies include carefully monitored stretching, strengthening and other therapeutic exercise.
Even patients with a very busy schedule should be able to maintain a moderate back pain exercise regimen that encompasses stretching, strengthening, and aerobic conditioning. Here are the types of exercises recommended for back pain relief:
- Stretching: Almost everyone who has suffered from low back pain should stretch their hamstring muscles once or twice daily. It doesn’t take much time, but can be difficult to remember, especially if there is little or no pain present. Developing a daily routine where you do the exercises at the same time and place each day, will help enforce the routine.
- Strengthening: To strengthen the back muscles, 15-20 minutes of dynamic lumbar stabilization or other prescribed exercises should be done every other day.
- Aerobic conditioning: Low impact aerobics (such as walking, bicycling or swimming) should be done for 30-40 minutes three times weekly, on alternate days from the strengthening exercises.
A well designed physical therapy treatment plan, which may also include other modalities such as chiropractic services, massage therapy, and/or spinal decompression, can help speed a spine patient’s recovery more so than one type of therapy alone.
Hudson Spinal Care offers all of these treatments, and designs custom treatment plans for the most effective spinal care under one roof.
To learn more about the services at Hudson Spinal Care, register for a free, in-office evaluation. If you are looking for faster service, call one of the two New Jersey locations. For Bayonne, NJ, call 201-339-8889, and for Scotch Plains, NJ call 908-490-1800. Just tell them that you read this article and you will receive the complimentary in-office evaluation (a $245 Value).
This information is solely advisory, and should not be substituted for medical or chiropractic advice. Any and all health care concerns, decisions, and actions must be done through the advice and counsel of a health care professional who is familiar with your updated medical history.
Dr. Chludzinski has been treating neuropathic conditions for the past 5 years. He is the founder of Hudson Center for Spinal Care located in Bayonne and Scotch Plains, New Jersey. In preparation for his career, Dr. Chludzinski attended St. Peter’s College in Jersey City, NJ, graduating in 1998 with a Bachelor of Science in Natural Science. He continued his studies at Life University School of Chiropractic in Marietta, Georgia, graduating in the class of 2002 as a Doctor of Chiropractic. Dr. Chludzinski services all of Union and Hudson counties, including Bayonne, Jersey City, Hoboken, Harrison, Kearny, Newark, Elizabeth, Westfield, Clark, Fanwood, Plainfield, Watchung, Mountainside, Berkeley Heights and South Plainfield.Physical Therapy and Chiropractic working together at Hudson Spinal Care
May 11, 2010
Physical Therapy is often recommended in combination with Chiropractic care, but finding the time and strength to get to so many appointments can be challenging. At Hudson Center for Spinal Care, patients not only receive the best possible care, but also enjoy the convenience of both Physical Therapy and Chiropractic Services under one roof.
An integrated approach to pain relief and rehabilitation is often the best approach. A variety of treatments may be needed to get the best results, which is why Hudson provides a full range of pain relief and rehabilitation services and professionals in one location.
“We treat many types of conditions such as scoliosis, spinal stenosis, herniated discs, post-operative surgery, sciatica and acute and chronic pain, with a custom treatment plan that combines a variety of modalities. Offering a treatment plan that ONLY includes Chiropractic services (or Physical Therapy services) for the mere reason of convenience may not be the best approach” says Dr. Eric Chludzinski.
At Hudson, trained professionals have a complete range of services to offer patients including Chiropractic Services, Physical Therapy, Massage Therapy, Spinal Decompression, Laser Therapy, and Neuropathy Treatments.
The therapists use a hands-on and non-invasive approach utilizing a variety of services that complement each other and provide the best results. Every Hudson Spinal Care patient will receive a custom and comprehensive treatment plan.
The physical therapy clinics in Bayonne and Scotch Plains come highly recommended by numerous physicians in Hudson and Union Counties for our extensive expertise and cutting edge techniques. The clinics work to identify and maximize an individual’s movement potential by utilizing the four main spheres of physical therapy which include promotion, prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation.
To learn more about the services at Hudson Spinal Care, register for a free, in-office evaluation. If you are looking for faster service, call one of the two New Jersey locations. For Bayonne, NJ, call 201-339-8889, and for Scotch Plains, NJ call 908-490-1800. Just tell them that you read this article and you will receive the complimentary in-office evaluation (a $245 Value).
Article by Dr. Eric Chludzinski, DC. Dr. Chludzinski is the founder of Hudson Center for Spinal Care located in Bayonne and Scotch Plains, New Jersey. In preparation for his career, Dr. Chludzinski attended St. Peter’s College in Jersey City, NJ graduating in 1998 with a Bachelor of Science in Natural Science. He continued his studies at Life University School of Chiropractic in Marietta, GA graduating in the class of 2002 as a Doctor of Chiropractic. Dr. Chludzinski services all of Union County and Hudson County, including Jersey City, Hoboken, Harrison, Kearny, Newark, Elizabeth, Westfield, Clark, Fanwood, Plainfield, Watchung, Mountainside, Berkeley Heights, and South Plainfield.
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