Pickleball has taken New Jersey by storm—but with its rise comes a spike in injuries, especially to the elbow. If you’re struggling with forearm pain, difficulty gripping your paddle, or elbow soreness that lingers after games, you may be dealing with pickleball elbow (also known as lateral epicondylitis or “tennis elbow”).

The good news? You don’t have to live with it—or give up your favorite sport. At Total Recovery PT in Little Falls, NJ, our occupational therapists specialize in treating pickleball elbow and helping athletes return to pain-free performance.

What Is Pickleball Elbow?

Pickleball elbow is an overuse injury that affects the tendons on the outside of your elbow. It’s caused by repetitive wrist extension and gripping motions—exactly what happens every time you serve, volley, or swing.

Common symptoms include:

• Pain on the outside of the elbow

• Weak grip strength

• Forearm stiffness or tightness

• Difficulty lifting or holding objects, even off the court

How Occupational Therapy Can Help

Occupational therapy doesn’t just help people recover from injuries—it helps them return to the activities they love with strength, function, and confidence. For pickleball elbow, OT provides a personalized plan to reduce pain, restore mobility, and prevent recurrence.

Here’s what pickleball elbow treatment with OT at Total Recovery PT might include:

1. Pain Relief and Inflammation Reduction

• Manual therapy techniques to release tension in the forearm

• Ultrasound or soft tissue tools to target inflammation

• Activity modifications to reduce stress on the tendons

2. Targeted Strengthening

We focus on the muscles most involved in your game:

• Wrist extensors and flexors

• Grip strength and thumb stability

• Shoulder and upper back support for better mechanics

3. Neuromuscular Re-Education

Using tools like the Neubie (NEUro-Bio-Electric Stimulator), we retrain your muscles to move more efficiently and rebuild proper firing patterns, speeding up recovery.

4. Custom Home Exercise Program

We provide exercises you can do between games to maintain your progress and avoid flare-ups, including stretching, isometrics, and eccentric strengthening.

5. Ergonomic & Equipment Guidance

We’ll assess your paddle grip, technique, and even off-court activities (like typing or lifting) that may be contributing to your symptoms.

Why Choose Occupational Therapy for Pickleball Elbow?

Unlike general rest or basic stretching, occupational therapy addresses the root of your pain—and creates a plan to return you to your sport stronger than before. At Total Recovery PT, our OTs work one-on-one with each patient to build long-lasting recovery and help you perform your best.

Don’t Let Elbow Pain Keep You Off the Court

Whether you’re a weekend warrior or competitive pickleballer, our occupational therapists in Little Falls, NJ are here to help.

Book your free consultation today and take the first step toward pain-free play.

Call us at 973-857-1616 or DM us “PICKLEBALL” on Instagram (@totalrecoverypt). 

Pickleball is one of the fastest-growing sports in the country—but with all that quick movement, pivoting, and fun comes a growing number of injuries and pain complaints, especially in adults 40 and older. At Total Recovery PT, we treat more and more players walking in with similar questions.

Below, we’re breaking down the most Googled pickleball-related concerns—and what you can do about them.

1. Why does my elbow hurt after playing pickleball?

The #1 searched injury? Pickleball elbow—aka lateral epicondylitis. It’s an overuse injury caused by repetitive gripping and swinging. The tendons in your forearm get irritated, especially if your technique or paddle weight isn’t ideal.

What helps:

• Targeted physical therapy

• Forearm strengthening

• Neuromuscular re-education (like the Neubie)

• Shockwave therapy to reduce inflammation

2. What shoes should I wear for pickleball?

Many players experience foot and heel pain due to poor footwear. Google trends show increasing searches for “best pickleball shoes for plantar fasciitis” or “pickleball shoes for knee pain.”

Pro tips:

• Look for shoes with lateral support (like tennis shoes)

• Avoid running shoes—they’re made for forward motion only

• Replace shoes every 6 months if you play regularly

3. How do I warm up before playing pickleball?

This one is often overlooked—but skipping a warm-up is a top reason players get injured. Simple dynamic movements before hitting the court can protect your knees, shoulders, and back.

Try this quick warm-up:

• Arm circles + shoulder rolls

• Gentle lunges with a twist

• Ankle circles and toe walks

• Side steps or mini shuffles

4. What’s the fastest way to recover from a pickleball injury?

We see everything from twisted knees to low back strains, but many players wait too long to seek help. That delay often leads to more downtime.

Our recovery approach at TRPT includes:

• Manual therapy to release tension

• The Neubie to retrain movement and reduce pain

• Shockwave therapy for chronic tendon issues

• A personalized plan to get you back on the court—fast

5. Can physical therapy really help pickleball players?

Yes—whether you’re trying to prevent injury, improve mobility, or recover from pain, physical therapy plays a crucial role in keeping you in the game long-term.

At Total Recovery PT, we understand the demands of pickleball and offer free consultations for local players looking to stay active without pain.

Ready to stay strong, pain-free, and competitive?

Schedule your free injury screen with our team at Total Recovery PT in Little Falls, NJ.

Call 973-857-1616 or DM us “PICKLEBALL” on Instagram (@totalrecoverypt).

As we age, the risks of falls become more significant, and unfortunately, falls are one of the leading causes of injury among older adults. A fall can have serious consequences, affecting mobility, independence, and even quality of life. But there’s good news—falls aren’t inevitable, and many are preventable. One powerful tool in preventing falls is the Medicare Fall Risk Assessment, which is part of the preventive care services Medicare offers. Alongside this, physical therapy plays a critical role in reducing the risk of falls and helping older adults regain their confidence and strength.

My Experience with Fall Risk Assessments

I remember when my grandmother, a vibrant woman in her 80s, started to feel unsteady on her feet. At first, she brushed it off as just a part of aging, but after a couple of near falls, I knew something needed to change. It was around this time that her doctor recommended a Medicare-covered fall risk assessment during her Annual Wellness Visit.

The assessment was designed to evaluate a variety of factors contributing to her fall risk: balance, strength, medical history, and even potential hazards in her home environment. By the end of the visit, we were given a clear picture of what might be contributing to her unsteadiness. The doctor explained that Medicare covers these assessments as part of its preventive care services, allowing older adults to take proactive steps in reducing the risk of falls before they happen.

Physical Therapy: The Next Step After a Fall Risk Assessment

Once the fall risk assessment highlighted areas of concern, the next step was physical therapy. At first, I didn’t realize how much physical therapy could truly make a difference in my grandmother’s life. But after a few sessions, I saw firsthand how it could address many of the factors that contributed to her risk of falling.

A physical therapist worked closely with my grandmother, focusing on exercises to improve her balance, strength, and coordination—the key elements that help keep us steady on our feet. Through customized exercise programs, she worked on strengthening the muscles in her lower body, improving her gait, and increasing her overall mobility.

These exercises weren’t just about physical strength; they were also about rebuilding confidence. For older adults, the fear of falling can be just as limiting as the physical risks themselves. As my grandmother’s therapist helped her regain strength and stability, her confidence grew. She was able to move around her home more easily and with more assurance. As a result, she became more active in her day-to-day life, and the fear of falling gradually diminished.

Why Physical Therapy Is So Important

Physical therapy isn’t just about doing exercises; it’s about addressing the root causes of falls. Here’s why it’s such a key component of fall prevention:

1. Improves Balance and Stability: Many falls happen when balance is compromised. Physical therapy targets the muscles and systems responsible for maintaining balance and stability. Simple yet effective exercises help improve your posture and steadiness on your feet, making it less likely that you’ll lose your balance during daily activities.
2. Enhances Strength and Mobility: Falls are more likely when our muscles are weak, particularly in the lower body. Stronger muscles help you navigate stairs, uneven surfaces, or simply stand up from a chair with ease. Physical therapy focuses on building muscle strength, which not only reduces the risk of falls but also improves overall functionality, making it easier to get around and enjoy your life.
3. Reduces Fear of Falling: For many older adults, the fear of falling can be paralyzing. It can cause people to limit their activities, becoming more sedentary, which actually increases their risk of falls. By working with a physical therapist, patients gain the skills and confidence they need to move more freely and safely. This helps break the cycle of fear and inactivity.
4. Home Modifications and Education: Physical therapists also assess home environments and provide practical suggestions for modifications, such as adding grab bars in the bathroom, removing trip hazards, or recommending assistive devices. Additionally, they teach proper body mechanics, ensuring that patients know how to move safely throughout their daily activities.

A Proactive Approach to Fall Prevention

Combining a Medicare Fall Risk Assessment with physical therapy offers a comprehensive approach to fall prevention. The fall risk assessment helps identify who may be at higher risk and pinpoints factors like muscle weakness, balance issues, or environmental dangers that could lead to falls. Physical therapy then takes these findings and addresses them with targeted interventions, ensuring that older adults are better prepared to prevent falls and maintain their independence.

For my grandmother, physical therapy didn’t just help her avoid falls; it gave her a renewed sense of confidence and freedom. She became more independent, and her quality of life improved. I can’t emphasize enough how essential this combination of preventive care and physical therapy is for older adults.

Taking Action: Talk to a Healthcare Provider

If you or someone you know is concerned about falls or has been diagnosed with a higher risk of falling, it’s time to take action. The good news is that Medicare makes it easy to get a fall risk assessment through your Annual Wellness Visit, and once a risk is identified, physical therapy is a proven, effective way to reduce that risk.

So, if you’re worried about falling—or know someone who is—talk to your healthcare provider. Ask about a Medicare-covered fall risk assessment and how physical therapy can help. It’s never too early to start preventing falls, and by taking these proactive steps, you can preserve independence, avoid injury, and continue living your life with confidence and safety.

The NeuFit Neubie (Neuro-Bio-Electric Stimulator) is an innovative technology that’s changing the way we think about rehabilitation, pain management, and athletic performance. By combining the power of electrical stimulation with advanced neuroscience, the Neubie offers a unique approach to healing and muscle re-education. This cutting-edge tool is gaining popularity among physical therapists, athletes, and patients recovering from injury. In this post, we’ll explore the key benefits of the Neufit Neubie and how it can help accelerate recovery and enhance performance.

1. Accelerates Injury Recovery

Injuries can be frustrating and take time to heal, but the Neubie speeds up the process by directly stimulating the nervous system. Traditional rehab methods focus on treating muscles, but the Neubie works by sending electrical signals to the nerves, helping them retrain the brain-body connection.

How It Helps:

• Speeds Healing: The Neubie promotes faster tissue repair by improving blood flow and reducing inflammation in the injured area.
• Pain Relief: Electrical stimulation helps block pain signals to the brain while promoting the release of endorphins, the body’s natural pain relievers.
• Muscle Re-education: After an injury, muscles may become inhibited or “shut off” due to pain or trauma. The Neubie helps reactivate these muscles, improving strength and function more quickly.

By targeting the nervous system, the Neubie helps patients recover faster from injuries like sprains, strains, and even more severe conditions like post-surgical recovery.

2. Reduces Chronic Pain

Chronic pain is often linked to dysfunction in the nervous system. The Neubie’s neuro-electrical stimulation can help “reset” how the nervous system communicates with the body, making it a powerful tool for reducing chronic pain without relying on medications.

Benefits for Pain Relief:

• Non-Invasive Treatment: Neubie therapy is a drug-free, non-invasive approach to managing chronic pain conditions like fibromyalgia, arthritis, or chronic back pain.
• Improves Mobility: By reducing pain and inflammation, the Neubie helps restore mobility in patients dealing with long-term pain conditions.
• Targets the Root Cause: Unlike treatments that mask symptoms, the Neubie works at the source by retraining the nervous system, making it more effective for long-term pain management.

Patients who have struggled with pain for years often experience significant relief after incorporating the Neubie into their treatment plans.

3. Enhances Athletic Performance

The Neubie isn’t just for injury recovery; it’s also a powerful tool for athletes looking to enhance their performance. By stimulating the muscles and nervous system in ways traditional training can’t, the Neubie helps athletes push their bodies to new levels.

Performance Benefits:

• Increases Strength and Power: The electrical stimulation from the Neubie activates more muscle fibers than standard exercises, allowing athletes to gain strength and power more efficiently.
• Improves Recovery Time: Whether from intense training sessions or injury, athletes can recover faster with Neubie therapy, reducing muscle soreness and enhancing recovery between workouts.
• Corrects Muscle Imbalances: The Neubie identifies and targets weak or underdeveloped muscles, helping athletes improve stability and overall performance.

By optimizing muscle function and nervous system efficiency, athletes who use the Neubie are able to perform at their best while reducing their risk of injury.

4. Customized Treatment for Every Patient

One of the key benefits of the Neufit Neubie is its ability to deliver personalized treatment. Unlike one-size-fits-all approaches, the Neubie is customizable for each individual’s specific needs.

How It’s Personalized:

• Assessment of Problem Areas: During an initial session, therapists can use the Neubie to identify exactly which muscles and nerves are not functioning properly.
• Targeted Stimulation: Once the problem areas are identified, the therapist can deliver targeted stimulation to the areas that need the most attention, ensuring faster, more effective results.
• Adjustable Intensity Levels: The intensity and type of electrical stimulation can be adjusted based on the patient’s condition and tolerance, making it safe and effective for people of all fitness levels and injury types.

This individualized approach makes the Neubie particularly effective for a wide range of patients, from those with mild injuries to those dealing with severe chronic pain or mobility issues.

5. Safe and Efficient for All Ages

The Neubie is a versatile tool that can benefit people of all ages and fitness levels. Its non-invasive nature and ability to promote natural healing make it a safe option for a variety of conditions.

Safety and Ease of Use:

• Low Risk of Side Effects: Unlike some pain relief methods that rely on medications or surgery, the Neubie carries minimal risk of side effects and complications.
• Gentle on Joints: For patients with joint pain or mobility issues, the Neubie provides an effective workout without placing stress on the joints or muscles.
• Holistic Healing: By stimulating the body’s natural healing mechanisms, the Neubie encourages long-term wellness and recovery.

From young athletes to older adults dealing with arthritis, the Neubie can be adapted to suit various age groups and conditions.

Conclusion

The NeuFit Neubie offers a groundbreaking approach to rehabilitation, pain management, and athletic performance. By harnessing the power of neuro-electrical stimulation, the Neubie helps patients recover from injury faster, reduce chronic pain, and optimize physical performance. Whether you’re dealing with a painful injury or looking to take your athletic training to the next level, the Neubie provides a safe, efficient, and personalized solution to help you achieve your health and fitness goals.

Shoulder pain is a common complaint that can stem from various causes, including injuries, overuse, arthritis, and poor posture. The shoulder joint is highly mobile, making it susceptible to strains and injuries that can limit movement and affect daily activities. Fortunately, physical therapy can play a crucial role in alleviating shoulder pain and restoring function.

How Physical Therapy Helps with Shoulder Pain

1. Assessment and Diagnosis: A physical therapist will begin by conducting a thorough assessment to identify the underlying cause of the shoulder pain. This may involve evaluating range of motion, strength, and functional limitations.
2. Personalized Treatment Plans: Based on the assessment, the therapist will develop a customized treatment plan that may include:
   • Strengthening Exercises: Targeted exercises to build strength in the shoulder muscles and stabilize the joint.
   • Stretching Techniques: Gentle stretches to improve flexibility and range of motion, reducing stiffness.
   • Manual Therapy: Hands-on techniques to relieve tension and improve joint mobility.
3. Education and Prevention: Physical therapists educate patients about proper body mechanics and posture, helping to prevent future injuries. They may also provide guidance on activity modifications to reduce strain on the shoulder.

Benefits of Physical Therapy for Shoulder Pain

• Pain Relief: Physical therapy can significantly reduce pain and discomfort, allowing individuals to return to their daily activities.
• Improved Mobility: Through targeted exercises and stretches, patients can regain their range of motion, making movements more comfortable.
• Enhanced Strength and Stability: Building strength in the shoulder muscles helps stabilize the joint, preventing future injuries.

Conclusion

If you’re experiencing shoulder pain, don’t let it limit your quality of life. Physical therapy offers a safe, effective approach to managing pain and restoring function. By working with a qualified physical therapist, you can develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses your specific needs and helps you get back to doing what you love. Don’t wait—take the first step toward relief and recovery today!

Neuropathy, characterized by damage to peripheral nerves, can lead to pain, numbness, tingling, and muscle weakness, particularly in the hands and feet. Whether caused by diabetes, injury, or other health issues, neuropathy can significantly impact mobility and quality of life. One of the most effective treatments for managing these symptoms is physical therapy.

Physical therapy focuses on enhancing physical function through targeted exercises and treatments. Here are the key benefits of physical therapy for neuropathy:

1. Pain Relief
   Chronic pain is a debilitating symptom of neuropathy. Physical therapists employ various techniques to alleviate pain and improve nerve function, including:
   • Manual Therapy: Techniques like massage help relax muscles and improve blood flow.
   • Modalities: TENS, heat, and cold therapy manage pain and inflammation.
   • Therapeutic Exercises: Targeted stretches and strengthening exercises enhance nerve function and reduce discomfort.
2. Improved Mobility and Flexibility
   Neuropathy can limit movement due to pain and weakness. Physical therapy helps regain mobility through:
   • Range of Motion Exercises: These improve joint mobility and reduce stiffness.
   • Strengthening Exercises: Therapists help strengthen muscles around affected nerves, supporting stability.
   • Stretching Techniques: Gentle stretches prevent muscle tightness and improve flexibility.
3. Improved Balance and Coordination
   Neuropathy can cause balance issues, increasing the risk of falls. Physical therapy enhances balance through:
   • Balance Training: Exercises like standing on one leg reduce fall risk.
   • Gait Training: Therapists guide patients in exercises to improve walking patterns.
   • Proprioception Exercises: These enhance body awareness, particularly in affected areas.
4. Increased Circulation
   Improved blood circulation is essential for neuropathy patients. Physical therapy promotes circulation through:
   • Cardiovascular Exercises: Low-impact activities like walking or swimming enhance blood flow.
   • Hydrotherapy: Water-based exercises reduce strain while improving circulation.
   • Massage Techniques: Massage stimulates blood flow to affected areas.
5. Custom Treatment Plans
   Physical therapy offers personalized care tailored to individual needs:
   • Individualized Care: Therapists assess your condition and develop plans based on your specific goals.
   • Adjustments Over Time: Treatment plans evolve as your condition changes.
   • Long-Term Management: Therapy addresses current symptoms and helps prevent future complications.
6. Prevention of Further Complications
   Physical therapy helps prevent muscle atrophy, joint deformities, and ulcers:
   • Strength Maintenance: Regular exercises prevent muscle wasting common in neuropathy.
   • Postural Correction: Therapists correct posture to reduce joint stress.
   • Foot Care Education: Essential for diabetic neuropathy patients, therapists teach proper foot hygiene and footwear recommendations.

Conclusion

Physical therapy offers a holistic approach to managing neuropathy, addressing both symptoms and underlying causes. Whether seeking pain relief, improved mobility, or preventive care, physical therapy can play a crucial role in your treatment plan. Working with a skilled therapist allows you to regain control over your life and reduce the impact of neuropathy on daily activities.

As an acupuncturist, I often see patients struggling with the seasonal misery of allergies—sneezing, itchy eyes, runny nose, and congestion. The symptoms can be so disruptive to everyday life that many people feel like they’re at the mercy of pollen and environmental triggers. While acupuncture offers relief, there’s also a natural remedy I’ve seen time and time again work wonders: local bee pollen and honey.

You may have heard about these natural ingredients, but you might be wondering: How can something so simple help with allergies? The answer lies in the powerful connection between your body’s immune system and the allergens you encounter. Here’s a deeper look at why local bee pollen and honey can offer relief—and how you can incorporate them into your daily routine.

The Science Behind Allergies and Immunity

Allergies happen when your immune system overreacts to substances (like pollen, mold, or pet dander) that are usually harmless to most people. The body mistakenly identifies these allergens as threats and releases chemicals like histamine, leading to symptoms like sneezing, itching, and swelling.

What makes seasonal allergies particularly tricky is that they can occur year after year, as your body becomes sensitized to specific allergens. This is where local bee pollen and honey come into play.

The Healing Powers of Local Bee Pollen and Honey

Local Bee Pollen: A Natural Desensitizer

Bee pollen is collected by bees from the pollen of flowers and plants, and it’s packed with essential nutrients like vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and antioxidants. What makes it particularly special for allergy sufferers is its connection to local allergens.

When you consume local bee pollen, you’re introducing small amounts of the very same pollen that triggers your allergic reactions. This can help your body build a tolerance to those allergens over time. Essentially, it’s a form of natural immunotherapy. By gradually exposing your immune system to local pollen, it may help desensitize your body and reduce the intensity of allergic reactions.

Research supports this idea, suggesting that bee pollen can help modulate the immune system, potentially reducing the severity of allergic symptoms. It’s like a gentle, natural way to train your body to stop overreacting to allergens.

Honey: Nature’s Soothing Remedy

Honey, especially raw and local honey, is another wonderful ally in the fight against allergies. Raw honey is made by bees from nectar collected from local plants, and it contains traces of the very pollen that triggers your allergies. While it won’t desensitize you in the same way that bee pollen does, it does offer other benefits.

Honey has natural anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help soothe irritated nasal passages and throats, giving you relief from congestion and soreness. Additionally, honey can act as a mild antihistamine, reducing the body’s inflammatory response to allergens and helping to ease symptoms like a stuffy nose.

Honey has also been shown to promote better sleep, which is especially important during allergy season when symptoms often worsen at night.

How to Incorporate Local Bee Pollen and Honey into Your Daily Routine

To reap the benefits of local bee pollen and honey, it’s important to use them consistently—and in the right ways. Here’s how I recommend incorporating them into your daily routine:

1. A Spoonful of Local Honey

Start your day with a teaspoon of raw, local honey. Make sure it’s locally sourced, as it will contain pollen from plants specific to your area, which is key for helping with local allergens.

You can enjoy it straight from the spoon or add it to your morning tea or smoothie. The sweetness of honey makes it an easy and enjoyable addition to your day.

2. Bee Pollen: A Daily Supplement

Take local bee pollen every day. The recommended dosage varies, but a typical starting point is around 1 teaspoon per day. Some people take it directly by the spoonful, while others mix it into smoothies, yogurt, or oatmeal.

It’s best to start slowly and gradually increase the amount, allowing your body to adjust. You can begin with a smaller dose (like ½ teaspoon) and work your way up over time.

3. Be Consistent

For bee pollen and honey to truly work their magic, consistency is key. Ideally, you’ll want to start taking them a few weeks before allergy season kicks in. This allows your body time to build a tolerance to the allergens and reduce your symptoms when they become most active.

Why Local Matters

It’s crucial to use local bee pollen and honey for the best results. The local pollen in these products is what helps you build tolerance to the allergens specific to your region. Pollen from other areas might not provide the same immune benefits, as it may not be the same type that triggers your seasonal allergies.

Important Considerations

While bee pollen and honey can be incredibly effective for many people, it’s important to consult with your doctor or a healthcare professional before starting any new health regimen, especially if you have allergies to bee products or other sensitivities.

Additionally, if you have a severe allergic reaction to pollen or have a known bee sting allergy, it’s best to err on the side of caution and consult with an expert before incorporating bee pollen into your routine.

Final Thoughts

As an acupuncturist, I’m always looking for ways to support the body’s natural healing processes. Local bee pollen and honey are two incredibly accessible and effective tools that can help alleviate allergy symptoms and improve overall immune function.

By adding these natural remedies into your daily routine, you may find that your seasonal allergies become much more manageable. While acupuncture can certainly provide relief, sometimes it’s the small, consistent actions—like taking a spoonful of honey or bee pollen every day—that make the biggest difference in your long-term wellness.

Here’s to a season of fewer sneezes and more natural relief—one teaspoon at a time!

As we age, life presents new challenges. One of the biggest concerns for older adults is the risk of falling, and for good reason: 1 in 4 falls causes a serious injury, like broken bones or even a head injury. In fact, falls are the leading cause of injury among older adults, often leading to a decline in mobility and independence.

But here’s the thing: many falls are preventable. Understanding the factors that increase the risk of falling and taking proactive steps can make a huge difference. In this post, we’ll talk about why falls are so common as we age, how a fall risk assessment can help you stay safe, and what steps you can take to reduce your risk.

Why Do Falls Happen More Often as We Get Older?

Aging brings with it changes to our bodies, and many of these changes can make us more prone to falls. You might not notice it right away, but things like balance issues, weaker muscles, or even vision problems can affect how we move through the world. Some of the most common risk factors include:

• Balance disorders that affect stability
• Mobility problems like difficulty standing or walking
• Chronic illnesses that impact overall health
• Vision problems that make it hard to see potential hazards
• Foot issues or wearing shoes that aren’t supportive
• Cognitive issues like dementia or mild cognitive impairment
• Medications that may make you feel dizzy or unsteady
• Home hazards like slippery floors or stairs
• Low blood pressure (orthostatic hypotension) when standing up too quickly
• Vitamin D deficiency affecting bone health
• Comorbidities (the presence of multiple health conditions)

When these factors combine, it can become a perfect storm for a fall.

Who Should Consider a Fall Risk Assessment?

If you’re 65 or older, a fall risk assessment should be a regular part of your healthcare routine. The American Geriatrics Society recommends that older adults have a fall risk screening every year to assess their chances of falling. Why? Because the earlier you catch any potential issues, the easier it is to prevent a fall from happening.

What Happens During a Fall Risk Assessment?

A fall risk assessment is designed to check how likely you are to fall, and more importantly, it helps identify areas where you may be at risk. Our therapists will assess your strength, balance, and the way you walk—this process is key to understanding your fall risk.

Here’s a look at what you can expect:

1. The Screening:

The first step is an initial screening where we ask questions about your health. We’ll want to know about any previous falls, whether you’ve noticed problems with balance or walking, or if you’ve experienced difficulty standing up. It’s a simple conversation, but it helps us get a full picture of how you’re doing.

2. Fall Assessment Tools:

Next, we’ll guide you through a set of tasks that test your strength, balance, and gait (how you walk). This step might include things like standing on one leg or walking in a straight line to see how stable you are. These tasks help pinpoint areas where you might be at risk.

What Your Results Mean

Once the assessment is complete, you’ll receive your results, which will tell us whether you have a low, moderate, or high risk of falling. The assessment will also highlight specific areas where you may need to improve—whether it’s balance, strength, or the way you walk.

Based on your results, our therapists will give you personalized recommendations to help reduce your risk. These could include balance exercises, strength training, or even suggestions to improve your home environment (like removing clutter or adding grab bars in key areas).

How Physical Therapy Can Help You Stay Safe

Physical therapy is one of the best ways to reduce your risk of falling. Our goal is to help you regain your confidence and independence by strengthening your body, improving your balance, and increasing your overall mobility.

We offer a range of services to support fall prevention, such as:

• Balance Therapy & Rehabilitation to help you stay steady on your feet
• Strength & Conditioning Exercises to build up muscles that support your movements
• Functional Movement Exercises that mimic everyday tasks, making it easier to move around safely
• Neurological Rehabilitation to help with balance issues caused by conditions like stroke or Parkinson’s disease
• Pre- and Post-Surgical Rehab to ensure that after surgery, you’re able to get back on your feet safely and with more confidence

Our therapists work with you one-on-one to create a plan tailored to your needs, ensuring you feel as strong and capable as possible.

We’re Here to Support You

Taking steps to prevent falls is essential for staying healthy and independent as you age. At our clinic, we understand how important it is to address fall risks early, which is why we offer comprehensive fall risk assessments and personalized care plans. We accept most insurance plans and offer flexible payment options for those without insurance.

Whether you’re ready to schedule a fall risk assessment, want to learn more about our fall prevention programs, or need help with rehab after a fall, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

Ready to take action? Contact us today to schedule your fall risk assessment and begin your journey toward better balance and a safer life.

Low back pain is one of the most common ailments affecting people of all ages, lifestyles, and professions. In fact, nearly 80% of adults experience low back pain at some point in their lives. While it’s tempting to rest and avoid movement, the best solution often involves targeted physical therapy. As a physical therapist, I’ve seen firsthand how physical therapy can be a game changer for those struggling with chronic or acute low back pain. If you’ve been dealing with discomfort, PT might just be the path to relief you’ve been searching for.

Let’s dive into how physical therapy can help ease low back pain and promote long-term healing.

Understanding Low Back Pain

Low back pain can stem from a variety of causes, including poor posture, muscle strains, herniated discs, or even more serious conditions like arthritis. The complexity of the back—consisting of muscles, ligaments, discs, nerves, and bones—means that pain can manifest in different ways, from sharp, stabbing pain to dull, aching discomfort. However, the key to overcoming most low back pain is to restore proper movement, alignment, and strength.

How Physical Therapy Helps

Physical therapy offers a holistic approach to managing and reducing low back pain. Through a combination of manual therapy, exercise, posture correction, and education, physical therapists work with patients to not only reduce pain but also prevent future injuries. Here are several ways PT can help:

1. Targeted Exercises for Strength and Flexibility

One of the core components of physical therapy is exercise. Specific exercises can strengthen the muscles surrounding the spine, providing better support for your back. Strengthening your core (the muscles in your abdomen, lower back, and pelvis) is especially important for stabilizing the spine and preventing strain.

Equally important is improving flexibility. Tight muscles, especially in the hips and hamstrings, can exacerbate back pain by pulling on the lower spine. Stretching these muscles and improving flexibility helps reduce strain on the back, making it easier to move and carry out daily activities.

2. Posture Training and Ergonomics

Poor posture is a common contributor to low back pain. Many of us spend hours sitting at desks or hunched over our phones, putting unnecessary stress on our backs. A physical therapist can help you understand how to sit, stand, and move correctly to avoid strain. They’ll teach you how to maintain a neutral spine and how to adjust your workstation, car seat, or sleeping position to minimize discomfort.

Posture correction also involves helping patients develop awareness of their body mechanics, such as lifting techniques and proper bending methods. These changes reduce the risk of injury during everyday tasks.

3. Manual Therapy for Pain Relief

Physical therapists often use hands-on techniques to manipulate the muscles, joints, and soft tissues. Manual therapy can help ease tightness, reduce inflammation, and improve blood circulation in the affected areas. Techniques such as massage, joint mobilization, and myofascial release can be incredibly effective in reducing muscle spasms and providing temporary relief from pain.

By relieving tension in the muscles and joints, manual therapy helps restore the proper range of motion in the spine, making it easier to perform daily movements without discomfort.

4. Education and Self-Care

An important aspect of physical therapy is education. Many people living with low back pain don’t fully understand what’s causing it or how to manage it effectively. Through PT, patients learn about their condition, the role of posture, and the importance of proper body mechanics.

Your therapist will work with you to develop a personalized home exercise program that targets your specific needs, whether that involves stretching, strengthening, or low-impact aerobic exercises. They will also offer advice on lifestyle changes to support your recovery, such as weight management and injury prevention techniques.

Long-Term Benefits of Physical Therapy for Low Back Pain

While physical therapy can provide immediate relief, the true benefits are long-term. By addressing the root causes of low back pain—whether they are muscular, postural, or related to poor movement patterns—physical therapy equips you with the tools to stay pain-free in the future.

The goal isn’t just to eliminate pain but to teach you how to move and live in a way that minimizes stress on your spine, keeping you active and healthy for years to come. PT also lowers the risk of future injuries, meaning fewer flare-ups and fewer trips to the doctor or emergency room.

When to Seek Physical Therapy

If you’ve been suffering from low back pain for more than a few days, it’s worth consulting with a physical therapist. Early intervention is key to preventing chronic pain and improving long-term outcomes. Additionally, if your low back pain is affecting your ability to work, exercise, or engage in daily activities, physical therapy is an effective way to regain function and improve quality of life.

Physical therapy is a conservative, non-invasive treatment option, meaning that it’s often a good first step before resorting to medications or invasive procedures like injections or surgery. In fact, many studies show that patients who undergo physical therapy early on recover faster and are less likely to need surgery down the road.

Conclusion

Low back pain doesn’t have to be a lifelong burden. Physical therapy offers a comprehensive approach to treating low back pain that focuses on strengthening muscles, improving posture, and educating patients on proper body mechanics. Whether you’re dealing with a recent injury or chronic discomfort, PT can help you regain mobility, reduce pain, and prevent future flare-ups.

As a physical therapist, I always emphasize the importance of addressing low back pain as soon as it arises. If you’re experiencing discomfort, don’t wait for it to worsen—seek the help of a physical therapist who can guide you through an individualized treatment plan and help you live pain-free once again.

As a physical therapist, I’ve had the privilege of helping many people overcome injuries, pain, and limitations, but one of the most rewarding experiences is seeing someone avoid surgery when they thought it was their only option. This is exactly what happened with one of my patients, Chris, who came to me with severe shoulder pain caused by calcific tendonitis.

Chris was an active guy, someone who enjoyed hiking, playing tennis, and being involved in outdoor activities. But for months, he had been struggling with constant shoulder pain. Whether he was reaching overhead to grab something from a shelf or simply trying to sleep at night, the pain was unbearable. It wasn’t just discomfort—it was limiting his ability to do even the most basic activities.

After an MRI, it was clear: Chris had calcific tendonitis in his shoulder. This condition happens when calcium deposits build up in the rotator cuff tendons, leading to inflammation, pain, and reduced mobility. As you can imagine, it can be incredibly frustrating, especially for someone who’s used to an active lifestyle.

Chris had already tried multiple treatments, including rest, ice, and medications, but nothing seemed to provide lasting relief. After a consultation with his orthopedic surgeon, surgery was recommended as the next step to remove the calcium deposits and repair the damage.

That’s when Chris came to me, looking for alternatives. He was hesitant about surgery but wasn’t sure where to turn next.

Shockwave Therapy: A Non-Invasive Solution

At Total Recovery PT, we specialize in treating a variety of conditions, and one of the most effective, non-invasive treatments we offer for tendonitis and calcific tendonitis is Shockwave Therapy. This treatment uses high-energy sound waves to target the affected area, stimulating healing, breaking down the calcium deposits, and reducing pain. It’s been proven to promote faster recovery and improved mobility without the need for surgery.

Chris was open to trying Shockwave Therapy, so we started a treatment plan that combined this therapy with personalized physical therapy to strengthen his shoulder and improve his range of motion.

How Shockwave Therapy Works

Shockwave Therapy works by sending acoustic waves into the tissue, specifically targeting the calcified tendon. These high-frequency sound waves stimulate the tissue, breaking up the calcium deposits and encouraging blood flow to the area, which accelerates the healing process. The shockwaves also stimulate the production of collagen, which is essential for tissue repair.

In Chris’ case, after just a few sessions of Shockwave Therapy, he started feeling noticeable relief. The constant pain that had once prevented him from lifting his arm overhead began to ease, and his shoulder started moving with less restriction.

But the real breakthrough came when we incorporated physical therapy. Strengthening the muscles around the shoulder joint was key to preventing further injury and improving function. By combining Shockwave Therapy with targeted physical therapy exercises, we were able to address both the underlying cause of the pain and the muscle weakness that often accompanies tendonitis.

Chris’ Testimonial: Avoiding Surgery

After about four weeks of Shockwave Therapy and physical therapy, Chris came back to me with a smile on his face. He told me that he had been able to hike again without pain, sleep through the night without waking up to shoulder discomfort, and—best of all—he didn’t need surgery.

“I honestly thought surgery was my only option,” Chris told me. “The pain had gotten so bad, and I was ready to do whatever it took to get better. But after just a few sessions of Shockwave Therapy, I started feeling better. And combining that with physical therapy was the key. My shoulder feels stronger, and the pain is practically gone. I can’t believe I was able to avoid surgery.”

The Results: A Full Recovery

By the end of his treatment plan, Chris had regained full range of motion in his shoulder, was pain-free, and was back to his active lifestyle. The shockwave therapy had helped break down the calcium buildup, reduced inflammation, and improved his tendon’s ability to heal. With continued physical therapy, he was able to strengthen the muscles around the shoulder to prevent the condition from recurring.

Not only did Shockwave Therapy provide Chris with the relief he needed, but it also gave him the ability to live life on his terms again—without the need for surgery and with minimal downtime.

Why Shockwave Therapy Works

What I love about Shockwave Therapy is that it offers patients like Chris a chance to avoid more invasive procedures, like surgery, by promoting natural healing in a non-invasive way. Unlike traditional treatments that mask the pain temporarily, Shockwave Therapy addresses the root cause of the issue and stimulates the body’s healing processes at a deeper level.

It’s particularly effective for conditions like calcific tendonitis, plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, and other soft tissue injuries that involve tendon damage and inflammation. For athletes and active individuals who want to return to their normal activities as quickly as possible, Shockwave Therapy can be a game-changer.

Could Shockwave Therapy Help You?

If you’re suffering from shoulder pain, calcific tendonitis, or any chronic tendon injury and you’re looking for a non-invasive, effective solution, Shockwave Therapy might be just what you need. At Total Recovery PT, we’ve seen countless patients, just like Chris, avoid surgery and return to their active lifestyles with the help of this innovative therapy.

I understand how frustrating it can be to live with chronic pain, but I want you to know that surgery isn’t always the only option. If you’re ready to explore alternatives and give Shockwave Therapy a try, I invite you to reach out to us and schedule a consultation.

You don’t have to settle for pain or a long recovery from surgery. Let’s explore a path that can help you heal, restore function, and get back to doing what you love.