Most Common Workplace Injuries

Posted on October 15, 2018 by Farmingdale PT East

Physical Therapy Near Massapequa, NY

Physical Therapy in Farmingdale

Suffering a workplace injury can be a traumatic experience for any individual, regardless of the line of work they regularly participate in. Typically, injuries do tend to occur in a more blue-collar location. However, this does not rule out the possibility that injuries and other complications can occur in a regular office setting as well. If you’ve experienced a work-related injury and are seeking physical therapy near Massapequa, NY for assistance, you need to consider Farmingdale Physical Therapy East. Our therapists can provide you with important tips, recommended exercises, and other helpful suggestions that will get you back on the path towards recovery.

Examples of Common Injuries

Pinpointing each and every potential work-related injury would leave us discussing this topic for hours on end. Realistically, accidents can occur at any time from an endless amount of plausible catalysts. Instead, we will take a look at some of the more universal injuries that are regularly reported among both blue and white collar workers. See below for a detailed examination of ordinary accidents that can crop up at your (or anyone else’s) job location:

  • Slipping & Falling – You may brush off that wet floor sign as nothing more than comedic relief. However, wiping out on a wet surface can potentially lead to detrimental consequences for your health. In some cases, you may suffer a concussion due to a blow to the head or even potentially tear a ligament that you happen to land on awkwardly. A simple solution for avoiding this injury would be to stay aware of your surroundings, especially in an area that has been labeled as potentially dangerous by another employee.

  • Overexertion – It’s understandable that all jobs come with a decent workload that needs to be managed throughout your day. But forcing yourself to overdue what your body/mind can handle may have adverse effects on your health. Jobs that involve lifting a large amount of weight or operating heavy machinery are prime examples of physically overdoing yourself beyond what your body is programmed to maintain. Inversely, sitting in a chair and staring at a screen all day can also have rough side-effects for your health. These types of workers may experience severe headaches and dizziness from constant overuse. A strong solution for combating overexertion would be to take regular breaks (approximately 15 minutes long) and to never skip your lunch either. If you’re constantly on your feet all day, remember to sit down for your break. As an office worker, you’ll need to do the opposite. Remember to get up and stretch for your periodic breaks, going for a quick walk can also be highly beneficial (if possible).

  • Repetitive Motions – If you were once an athlete, then you’re probably familiar with the term repetitive motion. An example would be a pitcher, who repeatedly fires a baseball towards home plate. This action of using their arm to deliver the pitch is repetitive and can inevitably lead to some wear and tear. The same goes for the job-goer who frequently uses the same groups of muscles on a regular basis. If you feel as though your body is being worn down by repetitive motion, consider pursuing physical therapy near Massapequa, NY for potential relief towards your ailment.

We understand that your job is your job and that you need to work in order to maintain an ordinary livelihood. But that should never indicate that you also need to subject yourself to periodic discomfort. No job or situation is ever worth sacrificing your physical and/or mental health. If you’re searching for a solution towards healing any work-related injury, contact Farmingdale PTE today for further assistance. With physical therapy near Massapequa, NY, our staff will be able to provide you with specialized techniques for the treatment of your specific injury. You can get started today by contacting us for an appointment and consultation, feel free to reach out!

Posted in ChoosePT, Physical Therapy, Physical Therapy in Farmingdale, physical therapy near Massapequa, Worker's Compensation | Tagged , | Leave a comment

National Physical Therapy Month

Posted on October 9, 2018 by Farmingdale PT East

physical therapy near Bethpage

Physical Therapy in Farmingdale

October is National Physical Therapy Month and just because you don’t need physical therapy doesn’t mean you shouldn’t pursue it. Physical therapy can kickstart your journey into the realm of physical activity and trigger an overall state of health and wellness. If you find that you’re not frequently making appearances at your local gym, physical therapy can not only motivate you but also teach you how to workout properly and free from injury. If you’re considering pursuing physical therapy near Bethpage, Farmingdale Physical Therapy East is your go-to for the ins and outs involved in the practice.

Benefits

Some of the potential benefits of physical therapy can include the following:

  • Pain Relief – You may not think you need physical therapy but your body might disagree. At the end of a long workday, you may be experiencing stiffness and/or soreness in your shoulders. Physical therapy can help prepare you for any potential discomforts in this or other areas of the body.

  • Flexibility – If you have trouble stretching and touching your toes, physical therapy can be an outstanding resource for increasing your flexibility. Just a few sessions and you’ll be feeling like a Cirque Du Soleil trapeze artist.

  • Exercises – Your physical therapist may recommend and demonstrate workout regimens that you can utilize even at your own convenience. If after a few sessions you still feel somewhat sore and stiff, these exercises can help you loosen up.

  • Geriatric Benefits – You may not be a spring chicken, but that doesn’t mean you have to abstain from all physical activity. Physical therapy can help with mobility and warm up those muscles that are not quite as active as they used to be.

Physical therapy isn’t restricted to only injured individuals. It can also be just as beneficial to those who presently don’t have an injury. The benefits are there for anyone who takes it, you don’t need to be physically injured first to receive it. If you’re searching for physical therapy near Bethpage, you should strongly consider our services and allow us to help provide you with a healthy lifestyle.

Types of Physical Therapy

Types of therapy are:

  • Orthopedic physical therapy – Helps those who have just gone through orthopedic surgery. It can also help those who suffer from tendonitis, sprains, fractures, and bursitis. The treatments that help are manual therapy, strength training, and mobility training.

  • Vestibular therapy – If your balance is not good it may be because your inner ear is affecting it. There are ways this particular physical therapy can help you if your inner ear is affecting you. It is a combination of exercises and manual techniques that can help improve your coordination and balance.

  • Neurological physical therapy – Can help improve the lives of people affected by conditions like cerebral palsy, Parkinson’s disease, brain injury, and stroke. Through this therapy, a patient may receive benefits such as limb responsiveness, and reduced muscle atrophy by increasing strength.

Whether you require it or are just looking to improve your physical and mental health, physical therapy is an excellent source for reaching optimal well-being. Being a fitness nut isn’t a prerequisite for wanting to improve your mobility or areas of your body that could use a little shaping up. Even if you want to attend physical therapy just for the sole purpose of making it easier to get out of bed in the morning, you should still go! If you need physical therapy near Bethpage, Farmingdale PTE is more than willing to help you.

Posted in ChoosePT, Farmingdale Physical Therapist, Physical Therapy, Physical Therapy in Farmingdale, Physical Therapy near Bethpage | Tagged , | Leave a comment

World Heart Day

Posted on September 24, 2018 by Farmingdale PT East

physical therapy near bethpage

Physical Therapy in Farmingdale

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is one of the leading causes of death worldwide, taking the lives of 17.7 million individuals a year. CVD account for 31% of annual deaths, therefore the World Health Organization (WHO) organized a day to raise awareness.

As of 2013, the WHO committed to reducing CVD related cases by 25% by 2025. Take the time today to become knowledgeable about your heart health, and make the promise to look after your heart.

What is cardiovascular disease?

Cardiovascular diseases are any disease involving the heart, the vascular function of the brain, or diseases affecting the blood vessels. Some of the most common cardiovascular diseases include coronary heart disease, such as a heart attack, and cerebrovascular disease, such as a stroke. As the strongest muscle in the body, your heart is imperative to your health so avoiding prominent risk factors for CVDs is very important.

What are the risk factors for CVD?

  • Check your blood glucose levels: High blood sugar is a token symptom for diabetes. The risk of a cardiovascular incident is increased substantially with diabetes. It is important to screen for diabetes in high-risk patients and to keep sugar levels under control.

  • Check your blood pressure: High blood pressure is one of the main causes of cardiovascular disease. Unfortunately, there are often few or no symptoms which accompany high blood pressure, making awareness difficult.

  • Check your numbers: A doctor can advise you of your weight, cholesterol levels, and BMI and assess your risk for CVD.

  • Know the signs: Over 70% of heart attacks and strokes occur at home, where a family member is present. Talk to healthcare professionals about finding out the signs and symptoms of a heart attack and stroke to help be aware ones in case of an emergency.

How can you help your heart?

  • Eat and drink healthy: Cutting down on high sugar snacks and beverages can help lower blood glucose levels and blood pressure. Limiting your alcohol intake can also benefit your heart health.

  • Get active: Thirty minutes of moderate activity 5 times a week is a healthy goal. Although fitness cannot directly treat cardiovascular diseases, exercise and fitness can help promote your overall health. If you are looking to take on an exercise program to improve your fitness, physical therapy near Bethpage can help make a difference in your health and help keep your heart strong.

  • Say no to smoking: Two years after quitting cigarettes, CVD is drastically less likely. After 15 years without smoking, the risk for CVD will return to the levels of a nonsmoker. Not only will avoiding or quitting smoking help you, but it will benefit your loved ones. Inhaling second-hand smoke can also increase the risk of developing CVD. Quitting smoking, or not smoking in the first place, is the best thing you can do for your heart.

Physical Therapy near Bethpage

If you’re looking to improve your heart health, consider getting active with Farmingdale Physical Therapy East. We offer a range of rehabilitation services including physical therapy near Bethpage and conditioning programs which help maintain the health of your heart and overall body and mind. Contact us today to book your appointment!

Posted in ChoosePT, Farmingdale Physical Therapy, Health, Physical Therapy near Bethpage | Tagged , | Leave a comment

National Women’s Health and Fitness Day

Posted on September 18, 2018 by Farmingdale PT East

physical therapy near bethpage

Physical Therapy in Farmingdale

Taking care of your body is important all year round, but many people tend to put health and fitness on the back burner. Work, family, and activities keep us busy, so National Women’s Health and Fitness Day is a great reminder of how important our health truly is. Anyone can celebrate this important day, not just women. Contact our practice today to get started with physical therapy near Bethpage to help improve your health, and check out these tips on ways to celebrate National Women’s Health and Fitness Day:

  • Try out a new exercise: There are lots of invigorating exercises for everyone. Take a break from your usual routine and give a new workout a try! Been wanting to try yoga? Find a local class. Interested in biking? Find a new bike trail. There’s no better time than now to take responsibility for your well-being.

  • Schedule a check-up: Regular doctor appointments are imperative when considering good health. Consider scheduling a checkup with your doctor today, and start physical therapy near Bethpage to improve your balance, strength, and flexibility.

  • Eating Healthy: Eating healthy and being aware of what you put into your body is essential to overall health and well-being. Take care of your body and be conscious of what you fuel it with.

  • Pay attention to your mental health: Mental health is an important component of a healthy lifestyle. Take time today to stop and listen to your body and mind. Your mental state is just as an important as your physical state and should never be overlooked.

  • Stay hydrated: Don’t forget to stay hydrated! It is imperative to your health and functionality of the body. Drink plenty of water and fuel it when it needs to be fueled, especially before, during, and after physical activity.

If you’re interested in improving your health today, consider our physical therapy near Bethpage. While National Women’s Health and Fitness Day is a great way to bring awareness to living a healthy and active lifestyle, don’t wait until September 28th to start living your best life!  Farmingdale Physical Therapy East will help you achieve the healthy life you are striving to achieve.

Posted in ChoosePT, Exercise, Farmingdale Physical Therapist, Farmingdale Physical Therapy, Health, Physical Therapy, Physical Therapy in Farmingdale | Tagged , | Leave a comment

Steps to a Faster Ankle Sprain Recovery

Posted on September 12, 2018 by Farmingdale PT East

Sports injury rehabilitation in Farmingdale

Ankle Sprain Recovery – Physical Therapy in Farmingdale

Considering everyday 25,000 individuals suffer from an ankle sprain, it is all too likely to happen in your lifetime. But don’t fear, sports injury rehabilitation in Farmingdale with our team at Farmingdale Physical Therapy East can help you get back on your feet!

How do ankle sprains happen?

Ankle sprains occur when the ankle joint is shifted too far out of its natural position, causing one or more ligaments to stretch or tear. While many ankle sprains occur during sports participation, there are other ways an ankle sprain may occur:

  • Unstable or unsuitable footwear

  • Tripping or falling

  • Landing improperly from a jump

  • Walking or running on uneven surfaces

  • Car crashes

  • Rolling the ankle

  • Twisting the ankle

Do I have an ankle sprain?

Ankle sprains are painful and debilitating conditions. Here are some commons symptoms to check for if you believe you may be suffering from a sprained ankle:

  • Swelling

  • Tenderness

  • Bruising

  • Pain

  • Inability to put weight on the injured ankle

  • Balance issues

  • Skin discoloration

  • Stiffness

Can I prevent an ankle sprain from occurring?

There are many different ways you can help keep your ankles healthy and ward off sprains. Some steps include:

  • Avoid running or participating in sports when tired or in pain

  • Eat a well-balanced diet

  • Keep your muscles strong

  • Maintain a healthy weight to decrease the pressure on your joints

  • Wear well-fitted and appropriate shoes

  • Run on flat surfaces

  • Stretch and warm up before exercise

Sports injury rehabilitation in Farmingdale

Physical therapy is the best treatment for an ankle sprain, as it is highly effective and noninvasive. At Farmingdale Physical Therapy East, not only will we help you recover from your sprained ankle, but we will help you prevent future injuries from occurring. Some stretches and strength exercises may include:

  • Calf stretch: Stand about two feet away from the wall with hands on the wall, shoulder-width apart. Place one foot behind the other, and bend your front knee slowly while keeping your heels on the floor.

  • Heel stretch: While seated, loop a towel or exercise band over the ball of your foot. Gently pull back until you feel the stretch in your calf and heel.

  • Ankle raises: Slowly raise your body to stand on the balls of your feet. Hold this position a few moments, before lowering to standing position again.

  • Standing on one leg: While it sounds simple, standing on one leg for short periods is a great way to improve your balance. Next, do so on a bosu ball for more difficulty.

  • Trace the alphabet: Using your big toe, slowly trace the alphabet in the air to improve range of motion.

  • Foot presses: Wrap an exercise band around the ball of your foot. Alternate between pushing your foot forward, backward, and side to side to strengthen your ankles.

What to do at home

There are many steps you can take at home, along with participating in physical therapy that will only help speed up and benefit the recovery process:

  • Rest: Make sure you are giving your ankle plenty of time to heal without putting an extra strain. Don’t put too much weight on your ankle while it is recovering.

  • Ice: Ice will help the muscles and ligaments heal and keep the swelling down, reducing pain in your injury while it heals.

  • Compression: Use light compression, such as a bandage, to help keep swelling in your ankle to a minimum.

  • Elevation: Elevate your ankle above the level of your heart to help reduce the pressure and swelling.

If you have suffered a sprained ankle, contact us today to get back on your feet. We look forward to hearing from you and to starting your personalized sports injury rehabilitation in Farmingdale.

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged , | Leave a comment

Trigger Finger Treatment

Posted on September 7, 2018 by Farmingdale PT East

physical therapy near bethpageTrigger Finger – Physical Therapy in Farmingdale

Also known as stenosing tenosynovitis, trigger finger is an extremely uncomfortable condition in which one of your fingers becomes stuck and locked in a bent position. The finger is unable to straighten out without significant discomfort. Are you looking for physical therapy near Bethpage? Farmingdale Physical Therapy East can help treat your trigger finger.

What causes trigger finger?

There are two, primary causes of trigger finger:

  • Most often, trigger finger is caused by a repeated movement or a forceful use of one of the fingers.

  • Sometimes, trigger finger is caused by an inflammation of the tendons that connect the bone and muscle in the finger.

What are the symptoms of trigger finger?

Some common symptoms that are indicative of trigger finger include:

  • A locked finger that is unable to be straightened

  • A popping sensation when the finger is moved

  • Soreness at the base of the finger

  • Stiffness in the finger

  • A painful clicking when moving the finger

Symptoms are noticeably worse when:

  • You first wake up in the morning

  • You grasp something firmly

  • You attempt to straighten the finger

Who is most at risk for trigger finger?

While trigger finger can occur in anyone, the following put you more at risk for developing the condition:

  • Being between the ages of 40 and 60

  • Trigger finger is more common in women than in men

  • Those with gout, diabetes, and rheumatoid arthritis are more susceptible to developing trigger finger

  • Those who repeat finger movements, such as musicians, farmers, and industrial workers are more at risk for developing the condition

How can trigger finger be treated?

There are a variety of ways in which the condition can be treated. Our physical therapy near Bethpage includes treatment to help treat trigger finger. Overall, the goal is to allow for the finger to be able to move freely, without clicking, popping, locking, or pain. Treatment options include:

  • The use of a splint

  • Physical therapy

  • A steroid injection into the tendon

  • Surgery

Surgery is often used as a last resort if other treatment options do not alleviate the uncomfortable symptoms. Usually, following surgery, full motion of the finger is restored, but physical therapy is often required to ensure full range of motion. At Farmingdale Physical Therapy East, our team can help you restore your strength and full range of motion in your finger post surgery, or even before choosing to undergo surgery depending on the severity of the condition.

At Farmingdale Physical Therapy East, our physical therapy near Bethpage can help treat your trigger finger. Contact us today to schedule an appointment with one of our experienced, skilled physical therapists.

Posted in Back, ChoosePT, Farmingdale Physical Therapist, Farmingdale Physical Therapy, Physical Therapy, Physical Therapy in Farmingdale, Wellness | Tagged , | Leave a comment

Concussions, Do You Know The Warning Signs?

Posted on September 6, 2018 by Farmingdale PT East

Concussion Safety – Physical Therapy in Farmingdale

For many of us, the fall season means three certainties are on the way: leaves changing, school starting, and tossing around the pigskin. Football season is underway, with multiple teams across Long Island preparing themselves for what’s sure to be a competitive season with plenty of action. But while coaches and players are grinding over the playbook, they also need to review safety protocols and procedures. Football is a game that’s violent in nature, with collisions occurring in each meeting between the ball-carrier and tackler. This has led to several injuries cropping up due to the aggressive nature of the sport, such as the now highly publicized concussion issues.

What is a Concussion?

Concussions are a polarizing topic in today’s sports world, with several professional players citing the condition as being a threat to not only their career but their future health as well. The condition is considered a traumatic brain injury that can lead to complications such as memory loss and frequent, agonizing headaches. The primary catalyst for a concussion is typically a striking blow to the head, causing the victim to immediately feel groggy and delirious.

In contact sports such as football and soccer, concussions usually occur as a result of a direct collision between two players. In some cases, the victims may actually lose consciousness, even for just a brief few seconds.

How do I Identify a Concussion?

It’s utterly imperative that all athletes, trainers, and coaches are aware of the warning signs of a concussion. The reason for this being so essential is that some victims may not be aware that they’ve suffered a concussion, even after the injury has already manifested. If you’re trying to determine whether or not yourself or another person has a concussion, be on the lookout for the following symptoms:

  • Severe/painful headaches

  • The victim was briefly knocked unconscious

  • Confused, shocked look

  • Memory loss

  • Dizzy spells

  • Delayed responses to answering simple questions

  • “Ringing” noise in the ears

  • Vomiting

How can Concussions be Prevented?

It’s critical that a potential concussion victim is immediately monitored and examined by a trained professional after the incident occurs. In the event that a concussion has indeed been determined, the individual should immediately be removed from the game or abstain from doing any other strenuous tasks. For athletes, protective equipment is crucial when attempting to prevent a concussion from occurring. Football players specifically should always make sure their helmets are properly fitted and ready for use. You may also seek guidance from a physical therapist, who can suggest exercises that will help you maintain a strong balance in order to prevent slipping and banging your head on a hard surface.

Above all else, educating others on the dangers of concussions is a task that should be undergone by anyone. Especially for athletes who play sports that involve collisions and violence. For further questions or concerns regarding the condition, be sure to consult with a physical therapist for tips and other pertinent information.

Posted in Uncategorized | Leave a comment

Can Physical Therapy Help Treat Sciatica?

Posted on August 27, 2018 by Farmingdale PT East

Sciatica – Physical Therapy in Farmingdale

If you suffer from sciatica, you know that it can make everyday activities painful and tedious. Luckily, physical therapy has an array of benefits and is an effective and safe method for treating your sciatica. At Farmingdale Physical Therapy East, our highly experienced staff will work with you to create a specified healing plan aimed at relieving your pain, and getting you to where you want to be. If you are looking for physical therapy near Bethpage, contact our office today for more information.

How Can Physical Therapy Help?

Physical therapy is an integral part of your sciatica treatment plan. Our physical therapists will create a plan which incorporates exercises aimed at strengthening your body, as well as increasing your overall flexibility and range of motion. Our physical therapists may also work with you to make changes to your posture and other ergonomic aspects of your daily routine which may be contributing to your sciatica pain.

Working with our physical therapists can also be a great means for introducing you to some excellent stretches and exercises that you can do at home in order to relieve and prevent sciatica pain. If you suffer from sciatica and are searching for physical therapy near Bethpage, contact Farmingdale Physical Therapy East to get started today.

Why Choose Us?

Physical therapy is an excellent way for treating your sciatica pain, but choosing the right physical therapist is essential. At Farmingdale Physical Therapy East, our team of highly trained professionals is ready to improve patients’ quality of life and achieve maximum pain relief through our rehabilitation and therapy practices. If you are looking for physical therapy near Bethpage, contact us today!  We are located on Main Street in Farmingdale, NY with ample parking. If you have any further questions please call us at (516) 293-0565.

Posted in ChoosePT, Exercise, Farmingdale Physical Therapist, Farmingdale Physical Therapy, Physical Therapy, Physical Therapy in Farmingdale, Rehabilitation, sciatica, Uncategorized | Tagged , | Leave a comment

Shin Splints 101

Posted on August 20, 2018 by Farmingdale PT East

Sports injury rehabilitation in Farmingdale

What Are Shin Splints? – Physical Therapy in Farmingdale

The term “shin splints” refers to the pain felt in the lower leg or along the shin bone. Individuals affected by shin splints typically partake in moderate to high physical activity and can range in age. Repeated stress on the bones, muscles, and joints of the lower leg can increase the pain of shin splints. If you are suffering from shin splints, our sports injury rehabilitation in Farmingdale can help you today!

Causes Of Shin Splints

Shin splints result in pain resonating from the lower leg. Tenderness, soreness, and swelling of the lower leg are also extremely common. Some causes of shin splints include:

  • Stress on the shinbone

  • Connective tissue stress

  • Running on uneven terrain

  • A sudden increase in exercise

Prevention And Treatment Of Shin Splints

Shin splints are extremely common but luckily extremely preventable as well. Things you can do to prevent shin splints include:

  • Analyze your movement

  • Avoid overdoing your exercises

  • Choose the right shoes for physical activity

  • Consider shock-absorbing insoles

  • Lessening impact by switching to low impact sports

If you are suffering from shin splints, there are multiple treatment options to help you recover. Options for shin splint recovery include:

  • Rest: avoid activities that cause pain, swelling, or discomfort. While healing, try low impact activity such as biking or swimming.

  • Ice: apply ice to the affected area for 15-20 minutes a day for about a week. In order to protect your skin, wrap the ice in a towel before contact.

  • Physical therapy: Muscle strength can be regained through physical therapy and guided exercise plans.

If you are seeking treatment, contact Farmingdale Physical Therapy East for our sports injury rehabilitation in Farmingdale today.

How We Can Help You

Shin splints can affect your day to day physical activity in many ways. At Farmingdale Physical Therapy East, our team uses the right methods for sports injury rehabilitation in Farmingdale to help you recover effectively and fully. Our care is thorough from start to finish in order to provide you with the care needed for a healthy recovery.

Contact our team to get started with sports injury rehabilitation in Farmingdale. Schedule an appointment today!

Posted in ChoosePT, Farmingdale Physical Therapist, Farmingdale Physical Therapy, Physical Therapy, Physical Therapy in Farmingdale, Rehabilitation, Shin Pain, Shin Splints, Sports Injuries, Uncategorized | Tagged , | Leave a comment

Steps to a Faster Ankle Sprain Recovery

Posted on August 13, 2018 by Farmingdale PT East

sports injury rehabilitation in Farmingdale

Ankle Sprain Recovery – Physical Therapy in Farmingdale

Considering everyday 25,000 individuals suffer from an ankle sprain, it is all too likely to happen in your lifetime. But don’t fear, sports injury rehabilitation in Farmingdale with our team at Farmingdale Physical Therapy East can help you get back on your feet!

How do ankle sprains happen?

Ankle sprains occur when the ankle joint is shifted too far out of its natural position, causing one or more ligaments to stretch or tear. While many ankle sprains occur during sports participation, there are other ways an ankle sprain may occur:

  • Unstable or unsuitable footwear

  • Tripping or falling

  • Landing improperly from a jump

  • Walking or running on uneven surfaces

  • Car crashes

  • Rolling the ankle

  • Twisting the ankle

Do I have an ankle sprain?

Ankle sprains are painful and debilitating conditions. Here are some commons symptoms to check for if you believe you may be suffering from a sprained ankle:

  • Swelling

  • Tenderness

  • Bruising

  • Pain

  • Inability to put weight on the injured ankle

  • Balance issues

  • Skin discoloration

  • Stiffness

Can I prevent an ankle sprain from occurring?

There are many different ways you can help keep your ankles healthy and ward off sprains. Some steps include:

  • Avoid running or participating in sports when tired or in pain

  • Eat a well-balanced diet

  • Keep your muscles strong

  • Maintain a healthy weight to decrease the pressure on your joints

  • Wear well-fitted and appropriate shoes

  • Run on flat surfaces

  • Stretch and warm up before exercise

Sports injury rehabilitation in Farmingdale

Physical therapy is the best treatment for an ankle sprain, as it is highly effective and noninvasive. At Farmingdale Physical Therapy East, not only will we help you recover from your sprained ankle, but we will help you prevent future injuries from occurring. Some stretches and strength exercises may include:

  • Calf stretch: Stand about two feet away from the wall with hands on the wall, shoulder-width apart. Place one foot behind the other, and bend your front knee slowly while keeping your heels on the floor.

  • Heel stretch: While seated, loop a towel or exercise band over the ball of your foot. Gently pull back until you feel the stretch in your calf and heel.

  • Ankle raises: Slowly raise your body to stand on the balls of your feet. Hold this position a few moments, before lowering to standing position again.

  • Standing on one leg: While it sounds simple, standing on one leg for short periods is a great way to improve your balance. Next, do so on a bosu ball for more difficulty.

  • Trace the alphabet: Using your big toe, slowly trace the alphabet in the air to improve range of motion.

  • Foot presses: Wrap an exercise band around the ball of your foot. Alternate between pushing your foot forward, backward, and side to side to strengthen your ankles.

What to do at home

There are many steps you can take at home, along with participating in physical therapy that will only help speed up and benefit the recovery process:

  • Rest: Make sure you are giving your ankle plenty of time to heal without putting an extra strain. Don’t put too much weight on your ankle while it is recovering.

  • Ice: Ice will help the muscles and ligaments heal and keep the swelling down, reducing pain in your injury while it heals.

  • Compression: Use light compression, such as a bandage, to help keep swelling in your ankle to a minimum.

  • Elevation: Elevate your ankle above the level of your heart to help reduce the pressure and swelling.

If you have suffered a sprained ankle, contact us today to get back on your feet. We look forward to hearing from you and to starting your personalized.

Posted in ChoosePT, Exercise, Farmingdale Physical Therapist, Farmingdale Physical Therapy, Physical Therapy, Physical Therapy in Farmingdale, Rehabilitation, Sports Injuries, Uncategorized | Tagged , | Leave a comment