What Is TMJ Dysfunction and Why Does It Cause Jaw Pain?

Anytime we move our mouths, we are using the TMJ, a unique joint connecting the jawbone to the skull. Several factors can strain or injure this joint: Heightened Stress: Emotional or physical stress can lead to muscle tension in the jaw, which can induce TMJ dysfunction symptoms. It's common for people to clench their jaw during stressful moments, leading to increased pressure on the temporomandibular joint. Frequent Teeth Grinding (Bruxism): Often an unconscious act, usually during sleep, teeth grinding can wear down the cushioning discs in the joint, leading to pain and discomfort. Dental Misalignment: When teeth don't fit together correctly, either due to genetics, trauma, or dental procedures, it can lead to an uneven distribution of force on the jaw, potentially causing or aggravating TMJ dysfunction.

How Can Physical Therapy Alleviate Jaw Pain and Improve TMJ Function?

Physical therapy offers a host of techniques tailored to counteract TMJ dysfunction. From specialized exercises to hands-on manual therapies, these methods primarily aim to alleviate pain and tension. Physical therapists also use relaxation techniques to reduce stress, one of the leading causes of TMJ dysfunction. Ultimately, this helps to restore proper jaw mechanics, enhance flexibility, and alleviate associated discomfort.

What Does a Customized Treatment Plan for TMJ Dysfunction Involve?

Every individual's TMJ dysfunction symptoms and causes can differ, which is why a customized approach to treatment is key for effective and long-lasting relief. Focused Exercises: Designed to enhance flexibility and strength, specific jaw exercises target the muscles around the temporomandibular joint, promoting better movement and reduced discomfort. Manual Therapy: Hands-on treatments help in alleviating tension, improving joint mechanics, and facilitating pain relief. Lifestyle Modifications: Recommendations on daily habits, posture corrections, and dietary changes can significantly impact TMJ symptom reduction. Adapting one's lifestyle plays a crucial role in managing and preventing the recurrence of dysfunction. Educational Resources: Empowering patients with knowledge about their condition is vital. Providing resources, literature, and guidance ensures patients understand their TMJ dysfunction and the steps they can take to manage it effectively.

Back Conditions Archives - JAG Physical Therapy in NY, NJ, & PA

Diagnosis of Degenerative Disc Disease

Us3eNumb3rZERO — Mon, 25 Sep 2023 17:37:20 +0000

Degenerative disc disease (DDD) can be a painful and even debilitating condition, so if you have spine-related symptoms, it’s important to get the right diagnosis. If you have a clear picture of your spine’s condition, you can embark on a course of treatment to relieve your symptoms.

The team at JAG PT is composed of highly skilled physical therapists who are experienced in treating all types of spine and neck conditions. Find your nearest JAG PT location in New York, New Jersey, or Pennsylvania, book an appointment today, or read further about degenerative disc disease evaluation.

What Is Degenerative Disc Disease and How Is It Diagnosed?

Between each of your vertebrae, there is an intervertebral disc, which is primarily made of cartilage. The role of the discs is to absorb your body weight and ensure that your spine is stable. Over time, these discs can weaken and lead to problems such as pain and lack of mobility. When wear and tear on the discs is extensive enough to cause symptoms, this is known as degenerative disc disease.

Disc degeneration may begin in one’s 30s, but DDD is usually seen in people over 50. It’s important to get an accurate diagnosis for DDD, not least because it can identify what stage your condition has progressed to. This will inform your treatment plan and help you get relief.

To diagnose you with accuracy, your healthcare professional will ask for your medical history, carry out a physical examination, and order imaging tests for a full picture of your condition.

How Do Medical Professionals Identify Symptoms and Signs of Degenerative Disc Disease?

The kinds of issues that people may face due to degenerative disc disease include:

Back pain
Neck pain
Pain that gets worse when sitting for a long time
Limited mobility
Stiffness
Tingling or numbness in the case of a herniated (or “slipped”) disc

At your diagnostic appointment, your healthcare professional will ask you about the symptoms you have experienced, how long you have had them, and how they affect your activity. They will also identify factors like your range of movement and the effect of pain on your mobility.

This will help your healthcare provider reach an accurate diagnosis of degenerative disc disease, which can have symptoms similar to other spinal conditions like ankylosing spondylitis, osteoarthritis, and sciatica.

What Imaging Techniques Are Utilized to Confirm Degenerative Disc Disease?

For an accurate diagnosis, your healthcare provider may use a variety of imaging methods to find out what’s going on.

X-rays are a useful tool for showing loss of space between vertebrae and whether a disc has moved out of place. They will also reveal any bone spurs protruding into the spinal canal.

CT scans use a combination of X-rays and computer technology to get a picture of your spine, showing changes in greater detail than a normal X-ray.

MRI scans give detailed two- or three-dimensional images of your spine, allowing your healthcare professional to assess damage to the discs, nerves, and spinal cord.

These imaging methods are essential to your diagnosis, as they will offer the detail needed to understand how far your condition has progressed and to tailor a treatment plan to your unique needs.

How Can JAG Physical Therapy Assist in Diagnosing and Managing Degenerative Disc Disease?

At JAG PT, we have a wealth of experience helping people with spinal conditions like DDD. Our therapists can devise a detailed and tailored treatment plan with exercises and lifestyle advice, such as how to sleep comfortably with degenerative disc disease.

Seek Professional Evaluation and Guidance at JAG Physical Therapy

If you’re looking for a trusted partner to diagnose and help you manage your degenerative disc disease, turn to your local JAG PT clinic. Book your appointment today to get started on the path to spinal healing and pain relief.

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Treatment Options for Degenerative Disc Disease

Us3eNumb3rZERO — Wed, 20 Sep 2023 17:18:35 +0000

Degenerative disc disease (DDD) impacts the stability and flexibility of the spine. This condition can cause a range of symptoms initially, such as moderate back pain, neck pain, and general discomfort. As it progresses, DDD can cause more severe pain, muscle aches, and limits to mobility.

Treatment for degenerative disc disease aims to ease the pain and discomfort and improve mobility and spinal stability. There are several treatment options that can help, and people at all stages can see a great deal of improvement thanks to specialized physical therapy. Contact JAG PT to learn more about how we treat degenerative disc disease, book your appointment today, or read further for more information on your options when you have DDD.

What Is Degenerative Disc Disease, and How Does It Impact Spinal Health?

Degenerative disc disease is characterized by the gradual breakdown of the intervertebral discs, which are fibrous cushions that absorb any forces applied between the vertebrae and the spine. Healthy discs keep the vertebrae from wear and damage, and when they start to degenerate, your mobility and ability to stay active are impacted.

Factors such as aging, overweightness, general wear and tear over time, and a family history of back or spine disorders increase your risk for developing DDD. Another potential cause is dehydration of the spinal discs. The discs consist of 80% water, so if your water intake is too low, the vertebral discs can contract.

What Non-Surgical Treatment Options Are Available for Degenerative Disc Disease

Non-surgical treatments, such as physical therapy and pain management techniques, play a vital role in lessening pain and supporting mobility. They can also prevent degenerative disc disease from getting worse and help patients avoid surgery.

Physical therapy: A physical therapist will use a combination of non-invasive techniques, including massage to ease pain and spine rehabilitation therapy to increase strength and mobility.
Steroid injections: Corticosteroid injections, administered by a medical practitioner, may reduce pain. This treatment option is usually only used when the pain is more severe, as it does come with some negative side effects, including damage to surrounding tissue.
Lifestyle modifications: Regular exercise, eating a vitamin and mineral-rich diet, drinking plenty of water, and avoiding nicotine and excess alcohol can help patients manage pain and other symptoms of DDD.

How Can Professional Physical Therapy Assist in Managing Degenerative Disc Disease?

Physical therapy can play a foundational role in treating degenerative disc disease because it addresses the pain while also increasing spine stability and improving your range of motion.

An experienced physical therapist may use any combination of the following treatments:

Manual therapy, such as deep tissue massage, to relieve stiff joints and tight muscles
Posture correction to improve the way you sit, stand, and sleep so your body mechanics don’t aggravate your intervertebral discs
Exercise, including strengthening exercises, to help the rest of the body support your spinal joints, and aerobic exercise to relieve pain and promote a healthy weight
Stretching and flexibility exercises to enhance your mobility

What Surgical Treatment Options Are Available for Severe Degenerative Disc Disease Cases?

Surgery is often considered the last resort to improve stability or range of motion, and most people won’t need it. However, if other treatments aren’t working, your doctor might recommend it. If you need a surgical procedure, JAG PT’s pre- and post-operative PT program will help you prepare, recover better, and achieve the best possible medical outcome.

Here are the most common surgeries for DDD:

Spinal decompression surgery is a procedure that relieves pressure on the spinal cord and nerve roots.
Spinal fusion involves fusing two or more vertebrae by placing bone or bone-like material in between and using a medical device to hold them together.
Disc replacement is a procedure where a surgeon replaces a degenerated disc with an artificial one.
Minimally invasive surgeries, such as a discectomy or some types of spinal decompression, enable a doctor to treat the problem after making only a small incision.

Find Relief and Restore Spinal Health with JAG Physical Therapy

JAG Physical Therapy is a trusted provider of physical therapy for degenerative disc disease in NY, NJ, and PT. Our experienced therapy staff will provide a personalized treatment plan to help alleviate your pain while also strengthening and supporting your spine. Schedule your appointment today and let us help you get started with spinal healing.

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Supine Diastasis (DRA) Tests

Us3eNumb3rZERO — Wed, 13 Sep 2023 16:03:46 +0000

Written by Bryn Zolty, PT

Supine Diastasis (DRA) Tests

An abdominal diastasis (DRA) is a weakness in the anterior abdominal wall in the connective tissue between the muscles. This condition can occur after prolonged stretching of the connective tissue and therefore is commonly seen related to pregnancy. Some pregnant women may report that when they try to exercise that they see a doming occur in the middle of their abdomen.

Most people are familiar with how to test for diastasis rectus abdominis (DRA) by doing a partial crunch to lift your shoulders off the ground. Then you place your fingertips into the middle of the abdomen and feel for a gap. Frequently, the width of the gap is measured in centimeters, or roughly estimated with how many fingers can be inserted into that space.

However, there is so much more to consider than just width! Let’s look at a few other things that can help you check your abdominal wall function. A DRA is an alteration to the core that can change the way the body manages its pressure. This means it alters how your body handles the workload you place on it daily. There are many meaningful tests that can be done standing, sitting, lifting, or in other positions. However, this will focus on the supine, or laying on your back, tests.

Curl Up Test

Lie down and curl your shoulders up off the ground. Ask yourself each of the following questions while you are in that partial crunch:

Is there doming or sinking in the middle of the gap?

If you saw doming, did you hold your breath?

Try the movement again during an exhale.

Look at the photos below. Here is a woman with 4-finger DRA and no doming during a crunch! This is why we don’t rely on just one test.

Now, gently press into the gap at several locations above, below, and at the belly button. How does it feel when you press down? Is it firm or soft? How deep can your fingers sink? Ideally, it would be hard to get 2 fingers inserted. Also, there should be tension or firmness when you press in. This indicates the deep abdominal muscles are supporting you and your fingers would not sink in deeply. The picture below demonstrates a narrow, softer, slightly deep gap, and lack of deep abdominal muscle tension.

Next, if you press on the sides of the gap, these are the rectus abdominis muscles, the “6-pack” muscles. Are they easy to move if you push them out wide? Or does the muscle tension give you resistance?

What is happening around the gap? We would hope for a relatively flat abdomen. Can you see each separate muscle group similar to the picture below? This could indicate the deeper core, including the transverse abdominis, is not recruiting well. This could possibly be an issue with its strength or the coordination of the abdominal muscles.

What do the ribs do when you curl up your shoulders? We watch the rib angle to get an idea of which muscles are working. The rib angle should not change much. Note the wide, pronounced ribs below. Two possibilities for this wide rib flare could be an oblique muscle dominance or weak transverse abdominis.

There are many other tests to check the function of the abdominal wall beyond the curl up test. They just aren’t all over the internet. As physical therapists, the focus is not just on the width of the gap, but more on how your body handles the work required to move and participate in the activities that you love.

Three additional supine DRA tests beyond the curl up test include: actively lifting a straight leg, a bent knee leg raise, and a cough test.

Active Straight Leg Raise

First, lay on your back, bend one knee as shown. Place your hands on either side of the front of your pelvis. While keeping the other leg straight, slowly raise it up to the height of the opposite bent knee.

Ask yourself these questions:

What happens to your pelvis?

Does your back arch?

Is one side more difficult than the other?

Is there any discomfort?

Do you hold your breath?

Below, notice the high back arch and ribs flared up.

Check back at the muscle checks we did with the curl up test with your leg raise, how did you do?

Does one side of your hips/pelvis raise and rotate? A strong deep core would prevent/limit rotation during this task. This individual had a high degree of pelvic rotation. Look at the hands resting on the front pelvic bones to see that the right side is higher when the left leg starts to raise.

Lay on your back, place your hands on your lower abdomen and pelvis. Bend both knees and place your feet flat. Lift one leg up and observe the abdomen, then lift the other leg as shown below. If you had a large dome or your abdominal wall pushed towards the ceiling, lifting one leg only may be a better starting point.

The first photo demonstrates the ribs flaring up, back arching high off the ground.

The second photo, below, demonstrates doming and pronounced 6-pack muscles. This woman did not dome with a crunch, but has difficulty managing the work required to lift both legs.

Cough Test

Lying on your back, try to cough and observe the abdomen. What happens? Coughing, laughing, sneezing, are everyday activities that require pressure to be managed by the core. Again, this woman did not dome during the curl up test, but pictured below is her doming with a cough.

This is obviously not an all-inclusive list of tests. At JAG PT we check many other factors involved to determine your plan of care. These are supine screening tests that you can use to determine if you would benefit from a visit to a PT.

We highly encourage you to see a pelvic PT if experiencing these symptoms to check what the pelvic muscles are doing during these tasks. Our pelvic therapists are trained to check your pelvic muscles to see if they manage your pressure well and support you during these movements. The pelvic floor can also demonstrate a similar “doming” movement that is not so visible. The deep core works with the pelvic floor and checking that relationship can be vital to strengthening your abdomen, preventing pelvic organ prolapse, and eliminating urinary and bowel dysfunctions that can arise.

Our hope is to spread knowledge to not just judge your core or exercise capability based solely on the width of the gap! Too many individuals tell us they are limiting activity and exercise because they have a DRA. Let’s talk about your screening results and calm your fears about gaps and doming. If you have questions on your DRA and hope to get help returning to whatever you love, call our therapists today and get started.

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Exercises to Relieve Back Pain

Us3eNumb3rZERO — Thu, 13 Jul 2023 17:27:58 +0000

Back pain is one of the most common musculoskeletal health complaints. Some 90% of adults will experience back pain at some point, and 50% of working-age people report some back pain every year. And back pain doesn’t just cause discomfort – it can harm your quality of life in many ways. That’s why it’s so important to seek help for back pain and learn the right ways to keep your back healthy.

Trust the skilled therapy staff at JAG Physical Therapy to help you find relief from your back pain. We offer tailor-made care programs to address your pain and provide you long-term solutions for a strong, healthy back. Book an appointment at your nearest JAG PT location in NY, NJ, or PA to get started with effective spine treatment, or read further to learn more about how you can begin alleviating your back pain at home.

What Are the Common Causes of Back Pain?

Back pain can come from physical damage, it can be referred pain from another part of the body, or it can be idiopathic, having no obvious direct cause. Among the commonest sources of back pain are the following:

Muscle strain – When you strain or pull a muscle in your back, you will likely experience a dull, achy type of pain that can get worse with certain movements, like getting up out of a chair. Your back may also feel inflamed and tender.

Poor posture – Poor posture is a very common cause of back pain. Using the wrong posture can mean that weight and pressure are dispersed unevenly on your spine, causing pain. Bad posture habits include sitting in a slumped position for long periods, walking with rounded shoulders, and lifting heavy objects while bending your back rather than your knees.

Herniated discs – A herniated or slipped disc is a condition where the soft tissue between your vertebrae slips out of position, causing pressure on the nerves. As well as pain, you may also experience numbness or tingling in your back, shoulders, legs, or feet from a disc herniation.

Spinal conditions – There are various chronic conditions or deformities of the spine that can cause back pain. These include scoliosis, which is an abnormal curvature of the spine, and osteoporosis, where weakened vertebrae become damaged and can fracture or collapse.

If you develop back pain, you should see your physician in order to get diagnosed with the cause. The way in which you treat your back pain will depend on its origin.

Which Exercises Can Help Relieve Back Pain and Improve Flexibility?

Using just a few different effective exercises on a consistent basis can go a long way towards a healthy back and spine. While you can try any of these on your own, it’s best to incorporate them into your routine under the advice of a physical therapist.

Stretching Exercises for Flexibility and to Relieve Tension

Child’s Pose

Place your hands and knees on the floor and allow your hips to rest back on your heels.
Fold your body forward and walk your hand out in front of you.
Let your belly rest on your thighs.
Put your arms out in front of you or at the side of your body with the palms of your hands facing downward.
Take some deep breaths.
Hold this position for up to 1 minute.
Repeat this routine as often as you like during the day.

Knee-to-Chest Stretch

Lie on your back, keeping both knees bent and with your feet flat on the floor.
Either keep your left knee bent or extend it straight — whichever works best for you.
Bring your right knee up to your chest, clasping your hands just under your knee.
Take some deep breaths.
Stay in this position for between 30 seconds and 1 minute.
Repeat on the other side.

Strengthening Exercises to Strengthen Your Core, Promote Stability, and Support Your Back

Pelvic Tilt

Lie down flat on your back with both your knees bent and your feet flat on the floor.
As you flatten your back onto the floor, engage your abdominal muscles.
While breathing normally, keep this position for 10 seconds.
Release and take some deep breaths.
Do 3 sets of 3 repetitions.

Cat-Cow

Get yourself into a “tabletop” position on all fours with your hands and knees on the floor.
Press down into your feet and hands as you inhale and look up — this is the “cow” part of the pose.
Then exhale and tuck your chin into your chest, arching your spine upward — the “cat” position.
Continue this routine for 1 to 2 minutes.

Low-Impact Aerobic Exercises for Overall Fitness and a Healthy Back

There are many low-impact aerobic exercises that can contribute to your overall fitness and keep your back healthy. One that you can do at any time is taking a brisk walk. In good weather, breaks at work are a great time to do this. You may also want to consider swimming or water aerobics, as being in the water allows you to exercise more freely without as much of the effects of gravity on your body.

How Can Proper Body Mechanics and Posture Adjustments Prevent and Manage Back Pain?

Good body mechanics (how you move your body) and posture (how you hold your body) can make a significant difference to your back health.

Try to be mindful of how they impact your back as you go about your everyday life. Here are some easy tips to follow:

When sitting, ensure that your back is pressed gently against the back of your chair and your feet are flat on the ground. You should also make sure that your feet and legs are uncrossed.
If you sit for long periods at a desk, make sure your workstation is ergonomically correct. This means that it’s comfortable and supports your body. You may want to consider an adjustable chair, a lumbar pillow to support your lower back, and a monitor stand to ensure that your computer is in the right position.
Don’t forget to take frequent breaks away from your screen. Go for a quick walk around the office and do some stretches to keep your back tension-free.
To lift a heavy object safely, keep your feet shoulder-width apart. Get as close as you can to the object and bend from your legs, knees, and hips, keeping your back straight. Never lift something that’s too heavy for you — ask for help to save injuring your back.

Experience Relief and Restore Back Health with JAG PT

JAG PT is committed to helping you find lasting relief from back pain. Our experienced therapists will provide expert guidance and design a tailored rehabilitation program to address your specific back needs. Take the first step toward restoring back health and living pain-free. Schedule your appointment now!

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The Role of Physical Therapy in Recovering from Back Injuries

Us3eNumb3rZERO — Wed, 17 May 2023 16:34:09 +0000

Back injuries, which may happen suddenly from acute spine trauma or develop over time, are a major contributor to lost work hours. For athletes, back injuries unfortunately mean being relegated to the sidelines.

However, you don’t just have to endure back pain: You can take your recovery into your own hands. At JAG Physical Therapy, our PT staff use all their compassion and expertise to help our patients rehabilitate from back injuries quickly and effectively. Schedule your appointment today to start relieving your back pain, or read on to learn more about how we treat back injuries with varied PT techniques.

How Can Physical Therapy Help in Recovering from Back Injuries?

Imagine you have a back injury brought on by twisting while picking up a heavy item at work. Your physical therapist might focus on exercises to improve your core strength, such as abdominal work to support your back. They may use manual therapy to relieve soreness, and a variety of other methods of spine rehabilitation, depending on the source of your back pain. They will also review proper lifting forms to prevent harmful lifting and show you how to use your legs to aid in lifting.

Lifting techniques are a common part of ergonomics — how physical work relates to you as an individual. Particularly with back injuries caused by lifting, repetitive motion, driving, or even desk work, physical therapists strive to correct positions or equipment that contribute to injury.

You might need help learning to sit, stand, or move in a different way. Individuals with scoliosis, for example, can benefit from the Schroth method to improve their posture. Your PT may also suggest using something like a lumbar support pillow when driving a truck or repositioning equipment at work to reduce constant bending or overreaching.

What Are the Benefits of Physical Therapy for Back Pain?

There are multiple advantages to choosing physical therapy for back pain and injuries:

Reduced inflammation and pain
Increased strength
Greater flexibility and range of motion
Ability to return to normal activities
Improved quality of life
Prevention of future injuries

But there are two more benefits to physical therapy you should definitely consider, especially if you have chronic back pain from an old injury or a serious injury with a long road to recovery.

First, physical therapy for back injuries can allow patients to avoid surgery. Virtually everyone would rather attend PT sessions and do the recommended therapy than have to undergo an operation.

Second, physical therapy can be effective quickly at reducing pain. Patients who maintain the right PT routine can reduce or discontinue the use of medication and easily transition back into their pain-free daily routine.

Physical therapy offers relief for back pain caused by a variety of conditions:

Can Physical Therapy Help Athletes Recover from Back Injuries?

Athletes have long known the tremendous power of physical therapy for back injury recovery. In fact, some return to training and competition even stronger and more agile than they were prior to their injuries. Not only are they in better condition, but they are also armed with knowledge about how to improve their form to prevent future back injuries.

One key to providing better back support to avoid repeat back injuries in athletes is improving overall core strength. This takes the pressure off the back alone and distributes it to strong muscles in the abdomen, buttocks, and thighs. Some common exercises used in PT by individuals from football players to ballet dancers include:

Crunches and reverse crunches
Mat exercises using an inflatable Swiss ball
Pelvic tilts
Bird dog pose (on knees with opposite arm and leg extended)
Planks

For sports that involve twisting, like golf, tennis, and baseball, different specific core strengthening and stretching exercises are often recommended, such as:

Glute bridges – lying on your back with your knees bent and feet flat, then raising the hips to make a bridge shape
Piriformis stretch – lying on your back with one foot flat on the floor and the other leg crossed over that knee to form a figure-4
Hip flexor stretch – half kneeling and pressing forward to stretch the front of the back leg
Thoracic rotations – lying on your back, opening one arm to the side while twisting your bent legs in the opposite direction

A physical therapy routine can be customized to any athletic activity, whether you play a team sport, ride horses, enjoy long-distance running, or pursue any other sport.

Schedule an Appointment with JAG Physical Therapy

JAG PT offers the best in physical therapy treatment for back pain and many other musculoskeletal conditions across New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania. Book an appointment with us today, or contact us for more information on our back injury treatment program.

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How Does Degenerative Disc Disease Begin?

Us3eNumb3rZERO — Thu, 04 May 2023 19:56:43 +0000

The intervertebral discs – the round sections of supportive tissue between the bones of the spine – undergo wear and tear over the years no matter what we do. In other words, many adults show some signs of disc degeneration from at least age 30, a figure that increases with age. However, in a minority of people, the level of damage to the discs is severe enough to cause pain and other symptoms, in which case it is referred to as degenerative disc disease, or DDD.

If you suspect you are at risk for DDD, beginning physical therapy treatment sooner rather than later can quickly reduce or eliminate back pain and improve your outcome. JAG PT’s spine specialization combines diverse physical therapy methods to treat the unique condition of your back in a way that targets your pain or immobility and fits with your lifestyle. Schedule an appointment today or read further to learn more about the early signs of degenerative disc disease.

At What Age Does Degenerative Disc Disease Start?

The risk of pain and dysfunction from disc degeneration gets higher with greater levels of wear on the discs. Therefore, while DDD symptoms can be seen at any age, the prevalence becomes higher in older patients. According to studies, about 40% of individuals over 30 have disc degeneration that’s visible with medical imaging. Meanwhile, in the population aged 50 and up, 90% of patients have evidence of disc damage. This means that degenerative disc disease is much more common in the latter age group even though some younger people may have this condition.

What Are The Earliest Indicators of Degenerative Disc Disease?

A physical examination and an image of the intervertebral discs, such as an X-ray, are necessary to formally diagnose DDD. However, there are a number of characteristic symptoms of degenerative disc disease you should look out for – if you experience several of these issues, you should seek an evaluation for DDD.

In early stages of degenerative disc disease, pain typically comes in the form of radiating, sharp or stabbing sensations accompanied by a feeling of heat or burning. This pain usually subsides when changing positions frequently. Aside from pain, DDD can also bring about muscle tension or spasms, numbness or tingling in the extremities from a compressed nerve root, or lessened flexibility and mobility in the torso.

If you have degenerative disc disease symptoms or other chronic back pain, the empathetic, skilled physical therapists of JAG PT can help. Find a location near you or schedule an appointment– don’t delay in getting the relief you need and contact us today!

Learn More About Degenerative Disc Disease:

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How Should You Sleep When You Have Degenerative Disc Disease?

Us3eNumb3rZERO — Fri, 06 May 2022 18:43:11 +0000

For the 266 million individuals suffering from lower back pain, restorative and therapeutic things like sleep and movement can heal — but they can just as quickly aggravate lumbar pain. And it doesn't help when general back pain turns into more serious issues like stenosis or degenerative disc disease.

Even if you know that over-the-counter pain relievers are not the right long-term solution, the question still remains — how do you sleep through the night if you're experiencing DDD?

There's a lot you can do to alleviate the chronic pain related to degenerative disc disease. As regional experts in spinal rehabilitation, JAG PT can help you reduce DDD-related pain and restore spinal mobility. You can get started by scheduling an appointment with a JAG PT clinic near you.

For now, let's dive into what you can do to alleviate chronic pain related to disc degeneration — from how to sleep with DDD to preparing yourself for a good night's rest.

Contact our team, find a JAG PT location near you, or book an appointment to begin taking care of your Degenerative Disc Disease today

Cervical or Lumbar? Distinguishing Between Two Types of Spinal Cord Pain

Degeneration of the spinal discs occurs in both the cervical (neck) and lumbar (lower back) regions as these areas undergo the most movement. The small discs between the length of the spinal column can experience structural changes, which then lead to low-grade, chronic pain because of factors like:

Twisting or lifting injuries.
Small, circumferential tears in the outer layer of the disc.
A decrease in water content in spinal discs.
A decrease of disc height or compression of the disc space due to aging. Both decreasing disc height and water content place added pressure and stress on facet joints (the connections between the bones of the spine) and other muscles that support the vertebrae. It's not uncommon for a disc to “collapse,” then triggering pain in the arm or leg muscles or even leading to nerve pain because of pinching or irritation.
Inflammation caused by contact between the proteins in the disc's interior and the nearby muscles, joints, and nerve roots.

If you're experiencing degeneration of the lumbar spine discs in particular, you're likely to face:

Moderate to low continuous back pain in the region.
Occasional pain flare-ups that last for a few days and intensify over time. Eventually, your spine stabilizes itself to account for the degenerating intervertebral discs — which is not a good thing.
Leg pain, including numbness and muscle weakness in the area, as well as sharp or shooting pain in the buttocks, hips, and/or back of the leg.
Pain with sitting, especially for long periods of time, and stiffness after maintaining only one position.
Intense pain radiating from the spinal column after you twist or bend from side to side.
Trouble lifting heavy objects or performing everyday movements like bending to pick things up.

Meanwhile, neck pain associated with cervical spine DDD feels like:

A stiff neck, low-grade pain that radiates across the neck and shoulders, even progressing into the arms.
Acute pain caused by movements that aggravate the area.
Sensations of pins-and-needles or tingling radiating from the shoulder down to the arms.
Sharp or severe pain that feels like an electric shock, which could be a sign of related nerve pain across the spinal joints.

DDD is quite a common condition, and rarely does either cervical or lumbar DDD lead to restricted or lost mobility. However, it can and does put you at risk for other issues like disc herniation. Your best first step is to work with your health care provider and assess your condition. They'll gather a medical history (as DDD is sometimes linked to genetics and is definitely exacerbated by risk factors like obesity).

Next, your health care professional will also test your neck and lower back range of motion. Depending on the severity of your pain, they'll then progress to imaging for confirmation of degeneration. The combination of these diagnostic tests can help them determine both the presence of DDD and if something else (like stenosis) is causing the issue

Learn more about symptoms and causes of Degenerative Disc Disease or book and appointment with JAG Physical Therapy today to treat Degenerative Disc Disease.

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What’s Really Going On? How Sleeping Positions Affect the Intervertebral Discs of the Spine

Besides sitting, sleeping is the next most common position we find ourselves in for a prolonged period of time. Even though sleep and rest are good for muscle spasms and acute back pain, assuming the wrong sleep position all night long can aggravate and worsen DDD. From muscle spasms to neck sprains, the aftermath of poor sleeping positions only serves to extend your back pain.

So, what's really going on with the spine when we sleep? Well, a lot depends on your dominant sleeping position. Generally speaking, the spine should be at rest and your position should help the body perform its nighttime restoration routine of rehydrating the discs between the spine. Of course, therapeutic exercises can greatly help this process and provide pain relief (and we'll cover more about that below).

For now, the key takeaway is that after a full day of supporting you and your body, the spine needs support — but, when you're sleeping, there are quite a few factors that can bend, twist, and stretch a spine out of a healthy, natural curvature, adding stress and pressure on cervical and lumbar regions.

Side Sleepers

When you sleep on your side, your spine elongates. It has a natural curvature and what it needs most is support. Keeping your legs straight, rather than curled in a fetal position, is best as the latter can lead to sore joints, along with unevenly distributing your weight on the spine.

Usually, pillows that are too high or too low are what knock your spine and neck out of shape and can lead to unnatural and painful dips in the cervical or lumbar spine.

Back Sleepers

Back sleepers really have it the best, as this is when the spine is in a neutral position. This means it maintains a light, natural curve but it's mostly straight, with no major dips across any of the regions. Sleeping this way supports optimal spinal alignment:

Chin up
Shoulders low
Back straight
Knees relaxed, and
Hips aligned with the shoulders.

A neutral spine also allows the surrounding muscles to remain elongated and loose, which reduces any soreness or tightness. Finally, this natural, neutral position is symmetrical, which means that one side of the body isn't working any harder than the other.

Stomach Sleepers

Spinal alignment for stomach sleepers is traditionally the worst. When you sleep on your belly, your shoulders press upward and your spine is forced into an unnatural position. Meanwhile, your neck's scalene muscles are strained because you have to turn your neck to the side just to breathe. Finally, the spinal region around the stomach and hips sinks inward and causes strain in this area.

With so many affected regions, it's unsurprising that stomach sleepers often suffer from neck, back, and shoulder pain.

Take a Load Off: The Best Tips to Sleep Well With DDD

Let's face it: pain treatments in the form of muscle relaxants just aren't going to cut it. The best way to alleviate DDD is to address the issue from multiple angles. And, if you're concerned that your general back pain may turn to DDD, committing to any (or all) of these strategies can help prevent the degeneration of your spinal discs.

#1: Get the Right Mattress

Without a doubt, a firm mattress is going to serve you best when it comes to sleeping with DDD but avoiding pain. This type of mattress stops the spine from sinking down into the bed and alleviates additional trigger points and stress on the joints.

#2: Try Low-Impact Stretches Before Bed

There are several exercises you can perform right before going to bed that will help get that spinal fluid moving and those discs nice and lubricated.

The pelvic tilt
Knee-to-chest
Supine lower trunk rotation
Bird-dog extension

#3: Sleep With Additional Supports

To recap, stomach sleeping is the worst position for back pain, especially if you have DDD. Side sleeping is okay and sleeping on your back is the most supportive and comfortable position to sleep in if you have DDD.

However, it's best if you use supports to keep your spine neutral all night long.

Back sleepers: Sleep with a pillow under your knees to maintain your spine's natural lower back curve.
Side sleepers: Sleep with a pillow between your knees to keep your hips, pelvis, and spine in alignment.
Stomach sleepers: Not recommended, but if you need to ease out of the habit and into another position, place a thin pillow directly under your stomach and hips to maintain that spinal curvature.

If you're experiencing chronic spinal pain, don't hesitate or delay — contact our expert, friendly PTs at JAG PT, available to you across over 100 locations. Book an appointment with JAG PT today.

Learn More About Degenerative Disc Disease:

The post How Should You Sleep When You Have Degenerative Disc Disease? appeared first on JAG Physical Therapy in NY, NJ, & PA.

Stages of Degenerative Disc Disease

Us3eNumb3rZERO — Thu, 20 Jan 2022 17:42:45 +0000

What are the Stages of Degenerative Disc Disease?

Degenerative disc disease affects millions of people worldwide — and is the most common reason people have surgery of the spine. Sometimes known as DDD, degenerative disc disease occurs when the discs — the fibrous cushions that absorb shock between the vertebral bones in the spine — begin to break down or change shape. This can happen as a result of sports or other activities over a long period of time, or simply because some people experience dehydration of their spinal discs (which normally are 80% water).

Your spinal discs fulfill a vital role in the health of your spine and in your ongoing mobility and activity level, and if you're suffering from degenerative disc disorder, we know how painful and worrying this can be.

Fortunately, help is at hand. At JAG Physical Therapy, our team members are regional experts in treating degenerative disc disease, offering tailored treatment plans specific to your needs, to help with spinal pain management and put you on the path to recovery.

Reach out to us to learn more, schedule your appointment, or find one of our over 100 JAG PT locations near you in New York, New Jersey, or Pennsylvania.

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The Four Stages of Degenerative Disc Disease

Medical professionals recognize four main stages of degenerative disc disease, beginning with the mildest form and becoming progressively more severe. They can result in pain, degenerative scoliosis, and loss of mobility. The four main stages of degenerative disc disease are the Dysfunction Stage, the Dehydration Stage, the Stabilization Stage, and the Collapsing Stage.

Dysfunction Stage (Stage 1)

Spine loses protection from shock and forceful motion
Vertebrae begin to lose natural curvature
Mild back pain, neck pain, or general discomfort

At the onset of degenerative disc disease, the affected disc or discs begin to cease functioning as they should. A common characteristic is that your spine is no longer adequately protected from shock and force of movement, as the discs lose their strength.

However, this is just one of the essential functions of your spinal discs. They also provide support and structure to the spine, giving your vertebrae their natural curvature. If your discs are becoming dysfunctional, this natural curvature may become warped and misaligned.

Signs of degeneration to the spine are often challenging to recognize. You may experience mild back pain, neck pain, or general discomfort, but you may not notice any difference in your spine. However, when a healthcare professional evaluates you, they'll carefully identify any irregularities and provide a diagnosis. Dysfunction can begin acutely — i.e., you feel your back suddenly “give” — or it can come from wear and tear over time.

While over-the-counter pain relievers might be helpful in this early stage, JAG PT's spine specialists can provide true treatment with chiropractic care and alternative therapy.

Dehydration Stage (Stage 2)

Continued loss of function
Moderate back pain, neck pain, or discomfort
Noticeable spinal deformity
Disc dehydration
Bone spurs

Spinal discs will continue their loss of function and degradation during this stage, and the symptoms will likely grow more severe. The mild pain and discomfort you may have noticed in Stage 1 will begin to increase until back pain is a regular feature of your day-to-day life.

At this stage, you may also begin to notice visible spinal deformities. The discs in the affected area may start to bulge in some cases as they are pushed outwards by the decentralized pressure on the spine. In other instances, discs may become thinner as they dehydrate, offering little to no protection to the spine's bones.

As the bones are no longer protected, they will begin to bear the brunt of the force placed upon the spine. When this happens, bone spurs may begin to appear as the bones themselves grow increasingly deformed.

Stabilization Stage (Stage 3)

Severe pain
Muscle aches and stiffness
Spinal stenosis
Difficulty moving

As DDD continues to progress, the spine attempts to counteract the damage by restabilizing itself. Osteophytes are formed during this stage. Also, spinal stenosis, or a narrowing of the space in the spinal column, occurs as your body seeks to develop a more stable spinal base.

The pain you experienced in Stage 2 is likely to become more severe during Stage 3. However, this pain may peak and then begin to subside as the spine stabilizes. You may also experience muscular aches and stiffness, and you will find that it becomes increasingly difficult to move during Stage 3.

It is important to note that stabilization is an emergency response triggered within your body. This process isn't your body “fixing” the degenerated disc. Instead, it's a sign of your body compensating for the loss of disc function.

At any point up to and including Stage 3, disc degeneration is classed as moderate. While the symptoms and treatment of Stages 1–3 are sometimes vastly different, these three stages all fall under the umbrella term of moderate disc degeneration.

So, as long as your condition has not progressed beyond Stage 3, the rate of disc degeneration is still considered reversible. Your JAG physical therapist can apply treatments and techniques to help your spine heal and regain a good level of function. However, after Stage 3, it becomes more challenging to reverse the process.

Collapsing Stage (Stage 4)

Severe pain
Collapse

In the final stage of DDD, the spinal discs become dangerously thin and may become herniated, collapsed, and/or disintegrated. The severe pain felt during this stage often results from bone rubbing against bone or from herniated discs pushing into nerves.

And because there is no protective layer between the bones of the spine, nerve damage can occur. The bones may even begin to fuse as the body works to compensate for the lack of a protective disc.

Stage 4 is considered severe DDD because it is challenging or impossible to reverse in many cases.

It may still be possible to treat the condition and improve your quality of life though. Typically, treatment will involve some physical activity and exercises to reduce pain levels.

How Fast Does Degenerative Disc Disease Progress?

The speed of DDD's progression will be different from case to case. In cases involving older patients, or those with pre-existing spinal conditions, degeneration may be more rapid. Further injury to the spine — for instance, if you ignore the symptoms and keep putting pressure on the bones in the back — may also accelerate DDD.

Degenerative disc disease is a progressive condition, which will worsen over time if left untreated.

After complete disc generation, the bones of the spine will begin to fuse. As a result, you could experience a loss of posture and mobility in the back or even permanent deformity.

Start Your DDD Treatment as Soon as You Can, with JAG PT

Don't let DDD interfere with your daily activities, and don't let the condition get out of hand. JAG Physical Therapy’s spinal specialists are highly experienced and trained to help patients with degenerative disc disease. We’re available in your area to provide the treatment you need for a healthier, more active, and pain free life.

See a Physical Therapist to Treat or Prevent Degenerative Disc Disease

JAG PT has over 100 convenient clinic locations – no matter where you are in the tri-state area, there’s a JAG PT location near you and ready to help. Or, our teletherapy program can provide you with convenient DDD rehabilitation in the comfort of your home. Don’t delay – find your nearest location or book a teletherapy appointment.

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Learn More About Degenerative Disc Disease:

The post Stages of Degenerative Disc Disease appeared first on JAG Physical Therapy in NY, NJ, & PA.

The Timing of Physical Therapy for Low Back Pain: Does It Matter in Workers’ Compensation?

Us3eNumb3rZERO — Tue, 02 Mar 2021 15:41:02 +0000

A lower back injury is an extremely common injury among workers. An injury or pain can develop from heavy lifting or from office workers who may not have ergonomic resources. After suffering from a work injury, especially lower back pain, beginning physical therapy should be a main priority.

According to a report released by the Workers Compensation Research Institute, receiving physical therapy for lower back pain within 14 days of injury is associated with significant reductions in the use and costs of medical services such as MRIs, opioid prescriptions, pain management injections, and low back surgery.

The study broke down the timing of initial physical therapy into five groups and excluded workers with only one or two visits. The WCRI broke the data out based on date of injury, within 3 days, 4-7 days, 8-14 days, 15-30 days, and after 30 days. “Workers with late PT, after 30 days, were more likely to receive medical services, specifically, they were 46 percent more likely to receive opioid prescriptions, 47 percent more likely to receive MRI, 29 percent more likely to receive pain management injections,” said Dongchun Wang, Economist at WCRI.

Some of The Report’s Key Findings:

The biggest impact was observed when physical therapy was started four to seven days after injury.
Compared with patients who received physical therapy within three days of injury, those who initiated physical therapy more than 30 days after injury were:
- 47% more likely to have an MRI
- 46% more likely to be prescribed opioids
- 29% more likely to receive injections for pain management
- 89% more likely to have back surgery
Workers in the late PT group after 30 days were 89% more likely to have low back surgery than those who received PT within the first 14 days after injury.

You can read the full report here.

JAG Physical Therapy is proud to offer Worker’s Compensation programs at our over 100 NY, NJ & PA locations. We offer FEC, Functional Capacity Evaluation Tests, as well as Post Offer Employment testing. To make an appointment or for more information, contact us today.

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Hockey Health Tips | Core Exercises For Your Abs & Lower Back

Us3eNumb3rZERO — Thu, 16 Apr 2020 00:00:00 +0000

JAG Physical Therapy Brand Ambassador and Former New Jersey Devils Captain, Bryce Salvador Shares “Core” Exercises For Your Abs & Lower Back.

The post Hockey Health Tips | Core Exercises For Your Abs & Lower Back appeared first on JAG Physical Therapy in NY, NJ, & PA.