Wednesday, April 29, 2009

We've Got Cyclists' Backs!

It is fairly common for avid cyclists to complain of back pain, which affects an estimated 30 to 70 percent of cyclists. The good news is that a fix for the problem may be no more complicated than adjusting their bicycle seats. This recommendation is made on the assumption that back pain arises among cyclists when the angle formed by the spine and pelvic bone is too large. To address this potential problem, cyclists are urged to tip the front ends of their bicycle seat down by 10 to 15 degrees. Doing so may help relieve back strain. On the other hand, if back pain persists, cyclists may want to have a physical therapist evaluate their pedaling posture.

Thursday, April 23, 2009

Off The Cuff Comments

Are you or someone you care about suffering from shoulder pain that limits your activity? The anatomical design of the shoulder joint leaves it vulnerable to injury. Unlike the hip joint, which has such a deep socket that the leg bone would stay in place even without the support of surrounding muscles, the shoulder is rather like a golf ball on a tee. Only the four muscles that compose the rotator cuff and a host of tendons, ligaments, cartilage, and accessory muscles keep the arm bones in place. This unique construction is what gives the shoulder the greatest mobility of all the joints, but it also makes it vulnerable to injury due to stress and overuse. Keeping the muscles strong is key to having a healthy shoulder.

Our friendly therapists at PERSONAL CARE PHYSICAL THERAPY can help alleviate your shoulder pain. We are experienced at treating common shoulder problems including rotator cuff injuries, tendinitis, frozen shoulders, torn ligaments and tendons, arthritis, cumulative trauma disorders, cartilage damage, and bursitis. Clients benefit from individual exercise programs that keep them working, lifting their children, or throwing a ball. Call (928) 214-7430 to learn more. We are located at 1515 E. Cedar Ave, Ste E2.