The shoulder is a complex joint that allows for a wide range of motion, but it is also susceptible to a variety of injuries and conditions. Physical therapy can be an effective treatment option for many shoulder ailments, helping to alleviate pain and restore mobility. Here are five specific shoulder conditions that OSR Physical Therapy treats, along with their treatment options:

Rotator Cuff Tear:

The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that support the shoulder joint. A rotator cuff tear can occur as a result of a sudden injury or from repetitive use. Rotator cuff tears can be a common source of shoulder pain and can limit your ability to perform daily activities. Physical therapy can help to reduce pain, improve shoulder strength and mobility, and prevent further injury. Here are some specific treatments that may be part of a physical therapy program for a rotator cuff tear:

1. Range of motion exercises: Your physical therapist will work with you to perform exercises that will help to restore your shoulder’s full range of motion.
2. Strengthening exercises: Strengthening exercises can help to improve the stability of the shoulder joint and reduce the strain on the rotator cuff. Your physical therapist may recommend exercises such as shoulder blade (scapular) strengthening exercises, rotator cuff strengthening exercises, and shoulder abduction exercises.
3. Modalities: Your physical therapist may use modalities such as heat or cold therapy, ultrasound, or electrical stimulation to reduce pain and inflammation.
4. Manual therapy: Manual therapy techniques such as soft tissue massage, joint mobilization, or manual stretching can be used to help restore range of motion and reduce pain.
5. Posture and body mechanics education: Your physical therapist can provide education on proper posture and body mechanics to help reduce strain on your shoulder and prevent further injury.
6. Activity modification: Your physical therapist may recommend modifications to your daily activities to avoid further strain on the shoulder.

Frozen Shoulder:

Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, is a condition that causes pain and stiffness in the shoulder joint. Physical therapy can be an effective treatment for frozen shoulder and can help to improve range of motion, reduce pain, and restore shoulder function. Here are some specific treatments that may be part of a physical therapy program for frozen shoulder:

1. Range of motion exercises: Your physical therapist will work with you to perform exercises that will help to restore your shoulder’s range of motion. Gentle stretching exercises and range of motion exercises can help to loosen the shoulder joint and reduce stiffness.
2. Strengthening exercises: Strengthening exercises can help to improve the stability of the shoulder joint and reduce the strain on the shoulder. Your physical therapist may recommend exercises such as shoulder blade (scapular) strengthening exercises, rotator cuff strengthening exercises, and shoulder abduction exercises.
3. Modalities: Your physical therapist may use modalities such as heat or cold therapy, ultrasound, or electrical stimulation to reduce pain and inflammation.
4. Manual therapy: Manual therapy techniques such as soft tissue massage, joint mobilization, or manual stretching can be used to help restore range of motion and reduce pain.
5. Posture and body mechanics education: Your physical therapist can provide education on proper posture and body mechanics to help reduce strain on your shoulder and prevent further injury.
6. Activity modification: Your physical therapist may recommend modifications to your daily activities to avoid further strain on the shoulder.
7. Home exercise program: Your physical therapist will likely provide you with a home exercise program to continue your rehabilitation and prevent further stiffness.

Bursitis:

Shoulder bursitis is a condition that occurs when the bursa, a small fluid-filled sac, becomes inflamed and irritated. Physical therapy can be an effective treatment for shoulder bursitis and can help to reduce pain, inflammation, and restore shoulder function. Here are some specific treatments that may be part of a physical therapy program for shoulder bursitis:

1. Rest and activity modification: Your physical therapist may recommend rest and modification of activities that put strain on the shoulder joint to reduce inflammation and pain.
2. Modalities: Your physical therapist may use modalities such as ice or heat therapy, ultrasound, or electrical stimulation to reduce pain and inflammation.
3. Range of motion exercises: Your physical therapist will work with you to perform exercises that will help to restore your shoulder’s range of motion. Gentle stretching exercises and range of motion exercises can help to loosen the shoulder joint and reduce stiffness.
4. Strengthening exercises: Strengthening exercises can help to improve the stability of the shoulder joint and reduce the strain on the bursa. Your physical therapist may recommend exercises such as shoulder blade (scapular) strengthening exercises, rotator cuff strengthening exercises, and shoulder abduction exercises.
5. Manual therapy: Manual therapy techniques such as soft tissue massage, joint mobilization, or manual stretching can be used to help reduce pain and improve range of motion.
6. Posture and body mechanics education: Your physical therapist can provide education on proper posture and body mechanics to help reduce strain on your shoulder and prevent further injury.
7. Home exercise program: Your physical therapist will likely provide you with a home exercise program to continue your rehabilitation and prevent further stiffness.

Labral Tear:

A shoulder labral tear occurs when the ring of cartilage surrounding the shoulder joint, known as the labrum, becomes damaged. Physical therapy can be an effective treatment for a shoulder labral tear and can help to reduce pain, inflammation, and restore shoulder function. Here are some specific treatments that may be part of a physical therapy program for a shoulder labral tear:

1. Rest and activity modification: Your physical therapist may recommend rest and modification of activities that put strain on the shoulder joint to reduce inflammation and pain.
2. Modalities: Your physical therapist may use modalities such as ice or heat therapy, ultrasound, or electrical stimulation to reduce pain and inflammation.
3. Range of motion exercises: Your physical therapist will work with you to perform exercises that will help to restore your shoulder’s range of motion. Gentle stretching exercises and range of motion exercises can help to loosen the shoulder joint and reduce stiffness.
4. Strengthening exercises: Strengthening exercises can help to improve the stability of the shoulder joint and reduce the strain on the labrum. Your physical therapist may recommend exercises such as shoulder blade (scapular) strengthening exercises, rotator cuff strengthening exercises, and shoulder abduction exercises.
5. Manual therapy: Manual therapy techniques such as soft tissue massage, joint mobilization, or manual stretching can be used to help reduce pain and improve range of motion.
6. Posture and body mechanics education: Your physical therapist can provide education on proper posture and body mechanics to help reduce strain on your shoulder and prevent further injury.
7. Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be necessary to repair the damaged labrum. Your physical therapist will work with you before and after surgery to help prepare you for the procedure and help with your recovery.

Shoulder Impingement:

Shoulder impingement occurs when the rotator cuff tendons and/or bursa become compressed or pinched between the bones of the shoulder joint. Physical therapy can be an effective treatment for shoulder impingement and can help to reduce pain, inflammation, and restore shoulder function. Here are some specific treatments that may be part of a physical therapy program for shoulder impingement:

1. Rest and activity modification: Your physical therapist may recommend rest and modification of activities that put strain on the shoulder joint to reduce inflammation and pain.
2. Modalities: Your physical therapist may use modalities such as ice or heat therapy, ultrasound, or electrical stimulation to reduce pain and inflammation.
3. Range of motion exercises: Your physical therapist will work with you to perform exercises that will help to restore your shoulder’s range of motion. Gentle stretching exercises and range of motion exercises can help to loosen the shoulder joint and reduce stiffness.
4. Strengthening exercises: Strengthening exercises can help to improve the stability of the shoulder joint and reduce the strain on the rotator cuff tendons and bursa. Your physical therapist may recommend exercises such as rotator cuff strengthening exercises, shoulder blade (scapular) strengthening exercises, and shoulder abduction exercises.
5. Posture and body mechanics education: Your physical therapist can provide education on proper posture and body mechanics to help reduce strain on your shoulder and prevent further injury.
6. Manual therapy: Manual therapy techniques such as soft tissue massage, joint mobilization, or manual stretching can be used to help reduce pain and improve range of motion.
7. Activity-specific training: Your physical therapist can work with you to develop an individualized exercise program that is specific to your activities or sport. This can help to improve your performance and reduce the risk of further injury.

In addition to these specific conditions, physical therapy can also be effective in treating general shoulder pain and stiffness. Treatment may include exercises to improve range of motion and strength, manual therapy, and modalities such as heat or ice.

At OSR Physical Therapy, our experienced physical therapists work with patients to develop individualized treatment plans based on their specific shoulder condition and needs. Contact us to schedule an evaluation and find out how physical therapy can help you recover from a shoulder injury or condition.

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The head and neck are complex structures that are vulnerable to a variety of injuries and conditions. Physical therapy can be an effective treatment option for many head and neck ailments, helping to alleviate pain and improve function. Here are five specific head and neck conditions that OSR Physical Therapy treats, along with their treatment options:

Whiplash: Whiplash is a neck injury that occurs when the head is forcefully jerked forward and then back. Physical therapy can help to reduce pain, stiffness, and improve mobility. Treatment may include exercises to stretch and strengthen the neck muscles, manual therapy, and modalities such as heat or ice.

Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Disorder: TMJ disorder is a condition that affects the jaw joint and can cause pain and difficulty with chewing and speaking. Physical therapy can help to improve jaw function and reduce pain. Treatment may include exercises to strengthen the jaw muscles, manual therapy, and modalities such as ultrasound or electrical stimulation.

Cervical Radiculopathy: Cervical radiculopathy is a condition where a nerve in the neck becomes pinched, causing pain, tingling, and weakness in the arm. Physical therapy can help to reduce inflammation and improve nerve function. Treatment may include exercises to improve posture, manual therapy, and modalities such as heat or ice.

Migraine Headaches: Migraine headaches are a neurological condition that can cause severe head pain, nausea, and light sensitivity. Physical therapy can help to reduce the frequency and severity of migraines. Treatment may include exercises to improve posture and reduce tension in the neck and shoulders, manual therapy, and modalities such as heat or ice.

Vestibular Disorders: Vestibular disorders affect the inner ear and can cause dizziness, vertigo, and balance problems. Physical therapy can help to improve balance and reduce dizziness. Treatment may include exercises to improve balance, manual therapy, and modalities such as vestibular rehabilitation.

In addition to these specific conditions, physical therapy can also be effective in treating general head and neck pain and stiffness. Treatment may include exercises to improve range of motion and strength, manual therapy, and modalities such as heat or ice.

At OSR Physical Therapy, our experienced physical therapists work with patients to develop individualized treatment plans based on their specific head and neck condition and needs. Contact us to schedule an evaluation and find out how physical therapy can help you recover from a head or neck injury or condition.

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Low back pain is a common ailment that affects millions of people worldwide. Physical therapy can be an effective treatment option for many low back conditions, helping to alleviate pain and improve function. Here are five specific low back conditions that OSR Physical Therapy treats, along with their treatment options:

Lumbar Strain/Sprain: A lumbar strain or sprain is a common injury that occurs when the muscles, ligaments, or tendons in the low back are stretched or torn. Physical therapy can help to reduce pain and inflammation and improve function. Treatment may include exercises to stretch and strengthen the low back muscles, manual therapy, and modalities such as heat or ice.

Herniated Disc: A herniated disc occurs when the soft inner core of a spinal disc protrudes through the outer layer, causing pressure on the surrounding nerves. Physical therapy can help to reduce pain and improve function. Treatment may include exercises to improve posture and reduce pressure on the affected area, manual therapy, and modalities such as heat or ice.

Sciatica: Sciatica is a condition that occurs when the sciatic nerve, which runs from the low back down through the legs, is compressed or irritated. Physical therapy can help to reduce pain and improve function. Treatment may include exercises to improve posture and reduce pressure on the affected nerve, manual therapy, and modalities such as heat or ice.

Spinal Stenosis: Spinal stenosis is a condition where the spinal canal narrows, causing pressure on the spinal cord or nerves. Physical therapy can help to reduce pain and improve function. Treatment may include exercises to improve posture and reduce pressure on the affected area, manual therapy, and modalities such as heat or ice.

Spondylolisthesis: Spondylolisthesis is a condition where one vertebra in the spine slips out of place, causing pressure on the surrounding nerves. Physical therapy can help to reduce pain and improve function. Treatment may include exercises to strengthen the muscles supporting the affected vertebra, manual therapy, and modalities such as heat or ice.

In addition to these specific conditions, physical therapy can also be effective in treating general low back pain and stiffness. Treatment may include exercises to improve range of motion and strength, manual therapy, and modalities such as heat or ice.

At OSR Physical Therapy, our experienced physical therapists work with patients to develop individualized treatment plans based on their specific low back condition and needs. Contact us to schedule an evaluation and find out how physical therapy can help you recover from low back pain or injury.

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Knee pain is a common ailment that can be caused by a variety of factors, including injury, overuse, or degenerative conditions. Physical therapy can be an effective treatment option for many knee injuries and conditions, helping to reduce pain and improve function. Here are five specific knee conditions that OSR Physical Therapy treats, along with their treatment options:

Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Injury:

An ACL injury is a common knee injury, especially among athletes.  An ACL injury often requires surgical repair, and physical therapy is an important part of the recovery process. The goal of physical therapy after ACL surgery is to restore full knee range of motion, improve knee stability, and regain strength and flexibility in the knee and surrounding muscles.

Here are some specific treatments that may be part of a physical therapy program for an ACL injury following surgery:

1. Early Rehabilitation: Physical therapy may begin shortly after surgery with gentle range of motion exercises and modalities such as ice or heat to reduce swelling and pain. The therapist may also teach the patient how to properly use crutches or a brace to protect the knee during early stages of recovery.
2. Strengthening Exercises: As the knee begins to heal, the therapist will work with the patient to improve strength and stability in the knee and surrounding muscles. Exercises may include straight leg raises, quad sets, hamstring curls, and calf raises.
3. Range of Motion Exercises: It’s important to regain full range of motion in the knee after surgery. The therapist may use manual techniques, such as gentle stretching or joint mobilization, to improve knee flexibility and reduce stiffness.
4. Plyometric Exercises: Once the knee has healed enough, the therapist may introduce plyometric exercises, which are high-impact exercises that involve jumping and landing. These exercises help to improve balance, coordination, and knee stability.
5. Sport-Specific Exercises: For athletes who want to return to sports after surgery, the therapist may develop sport-specific exercises to improve the patient’s ability to perform the movements required for their sport. This may include running drills, cutting exercises, and jumping exercises.
6. Balance Training: Balance training is an important part of ACL rehab as it helps to improve knee stability and reduce the risk of re-injury. The therapist may use balance boards or stability balls to challenge the patient’s balance and improve their proprioception.

Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome:

Patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS) is a common knee condition that causes pain in the front of the knee, around the kneecap. Physical therapy is an effective treatment option for PFPS, and the goal is to reduce pain and improve knee function through a combination of exercises, manual therapy, and education.

Here are some specific treatments that may be part of a physical therapy program for PFPS:

1. Strengthening Exercises: Strengthening exercises can help to improve the stability of the knee joint and reduce pain. The physical therapist may recommend exercises such as quad sets, hamstring curls, calf raises, and hip abductor exercises.
2. Stretching Exercises: Tight muscles in the legs, such as the hamstrings and quadriceps, can contribute to PFPS. The physical therapist may recommend stretching exercises to improve flexibility in these muscles and reduce pain.
3. Patellar Taping: Taping the kneecap can help to reduce pain and improve alignment of the patella. The physical therapist may use kinesiology tape or McConnell taping techniques to achieve this.
4. Manual Therapy: Hands-on techniques such as massage, joint mobilization, and soft tissue mobilization can help to reduce pain and improve knee function.
5. Activity Modification: Activities such as running, jumping, or squatting can exacerbate PFPS. The physical therapist may recommend modifications to these activities, such as reducing the intensity or frequency, to help reduce pain and allow the knee to heal.
6. Education: The physical therapist can provide education on proper body mechanics and posture, as well as tips for reducing pain during daily activities.

Meniscus Tear:

A meniscus tear is a common knee injury that can cause pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the knee. Physical therapy is often a key component of treatment for a meniscus tear, and the goal is to reduce pain and improve knee function through a combination of exercises, manual therapy, and education.

Here are some specific treatments that may be part of a physical therapy program for a meniscus tear:

1. Strengthening Exercises: Strengthening exercises can help to improve the stability of the knee joint and reduce pain. The physical therapist may recommend exercises such as quad sets, hamstring curls, calf raises, and hip abductor exercises.
2. Range of Motion Exercises: The physical therapist may recommend exercises to improve range of motion in the knee joint, such as heel slides and wall slides.
3. Balance and Proprioception Exercises: These exercises can help to improve balance and coordination in the knee joint, which can help to reduce the risk of further injury. Examples of balance and proprioception exercises include single-leg standing, balance board exercises, and agility drills.
4. Manual Therapy: Hands-on techniques such as massage, joint mobilization, and soft tissue mobilization can help to reduce pain and improve knee function.
5. Activity Modification: Activities such as running, jumping, or squatting can exacerbate a meniscus tear. The physical therapist may recommend modifications to these activities, such as reducing the intensity or frequency, to help reduce pain and allow the knee to heal.
6. Education: The physical therapist can provide education on proper body mechanics and posture, as well as tips for reducing pain during daily activities.

In some cases, surgery may be necessary to repair or remove a torn meniscus. In these cases, physical therapy may be recommended after surgery to help the patient regain strength, range of motion, and function in the knee joint.

Osteoarthritis:

Osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee is a common form of arthritis that causes pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion in the knee joint. Physical therapy is an effective treatment for osteoarthritis of the knee, and can help to improve knee function, reduce pain, and increase overall quality of life.

Here are some specific treatments that may be part of a physical therapy program for osteoarthritis of the knee:

1. Strengthening Exercises: Strengthening exercises can help to improve the stability of the knee joint, reduce pain, and improve overall function. The physical therapist may recommend exercises such as leg presses, hamstring curls, calf raises, and hip abductor exercises.
2. Range of Motion Exercises: The physical therapist may recommend exercises to improve range of motion in the knee joint, such as heel slides and wall slides.
3. Aerobic Exercise: Aerobic exercise such as walking, biking, or swimming can help to improve cardiovascular health, reduce pain, and improve knee function.
4. Aquatic Therapy: Aquatic therapy, which involves exercising in a pool, can help to reduce pain and improve joint mobility, especially for those who find land-based exercises too painful.
5. Weight Management: Excess weight puts additional strain on the knee joint, so maintaining a healthy weight can help to reduce pain and improve overall function.
6. Assistive Devices: The physical therapist may recommend assistive devices such as knee braces or shoe inserts to help reduce pain and improve knee function.
7. Education: The physical therapist can provide education on proper body mechanics and posture, as well as tips for reducing pain during daily activities.

Iliotibial (IT) Band Syndrome:

Iliotibial (IT) band syndrome is a common overuse injury that causes pain on the outside of the knee. Physical therapy can be an effective treatment for IT band syndrome, and can help to reduce pain, improve mobility, and prevent further injury. Here are some specific treatments that may be part of a physical therapy program for IT band syndrome:

1. Stretching: The physical therapist may recommend stretching exercises to improve flexibility and reduce tension in the IT band. These may include IT band stretches, hip stretches, and quad stretches.
2. Strengthening Exercises: Strengthening exercises can help to improve the stability of the hip and knee joints, reducing strain on the IT band. The physical therapist may recommend exercises such as hip abductor exercises, single-leg squats, and step-ups.
3. Foam Rolling: Foam rolling can help to reduce tension and adhesions in the IT band, reducing pain and improving mobility.
4. Taping: The physical therapist may use taping techniques to support the knee and reduce tension on the IT band during activity.
5. Gait Analysis: The physical therapist may analyze the patient’s gait to identify any biomechanical issues that may be contributing to the development of IT band syndrome.
6. Education: The physical therapist can provide education on proper warm-up and cool-down techniques, as well as tips for reducing pain during daily activities.
7. Activity Modification: The physical therapist may recommend modifications to the patient’s exercise routine to reduce strain on the IT band while allowing for continued activity.

In addition to these specific conditions, physical therapy can also be effective in treating general knee pain and stiffness. Treatment may include exercises to improve range of motion and strength, manual therapy, and modalities such as heat or ice.

At OSR Physical Therapy, our experienced physical therapists work with patients to develop individualized treatment plans based on their specific knee condition and needs. Contact us to schedule an evaluation and find out how physical therapy can help you recover from knee pain or injury.

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Wrist injuries and pain can be caused by a variety of factors, from overuse to trauma. Physical therapy can be an effective treatment option for many wrist injuries and conditions, helping to reduce pain and improve function. Here are five common wrist conditions that can be treated with physical therapy:

Carpal tunnel syndrome:

Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when the median nerve, which runs through the wrist, becomes compressed. Symptoms may include numbness, tingling, and weakness in the hand and wrist. Physical therapy for carpal tunnel syndrome may include exercises to improve wrist and hand strength, stretches to improve flexibility, and modalities such as ultrasound or electrical stimulation.

Wrist sprains:

A wrist sprain occurs when the ligaments in the wrist are stretched or torn. Symptoms may include pain, swelling, and bruising. Physical therapy for wrist sprains may include exercises to improve wrist and hand strength, stretches to improve flexibility, and modalities such as ice or heat therapy.

De Quervain’s tenosynovitis:

De Quervain’s tenosynovitis is a condition that affects the tendons on the thumb side of the wrist. Symptoms may include pain and swelling in the wrist and thumb, and difficulty gripping or holding objects. Physical therapy for De Quervain’s tenosynovitis may include exercises to improve wrist and hand strength, stretches to improve flexibility, and modalities such as ultrasound or electrical stimulation.

Wrist arthritis:

Wrist arthritis is a degenerative condition that can cause pain, stiffness, and swelling in the wrist joint. Physical therapy for wrist arthritis may include exercises to improve wrist and hand strength, stretches to improve flexibility, and modalities such as heat or cold therapy.

Wrist fractures:

A wrist fracture occurs when one of the bones in the wrist is broken. Symptoms may include pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the wrist. Physical therapy for wrist fractures may include exercises to improve wrist and hand strength, stretches to improve flexibility, and modalities such as ice or heat therapy.

At OSR Physical Therapy, our experienced physical therapists work with patients to develop individualized treatment plans based on their specific wrist condition. Contact us to schedule an evaluation and find out how physical therapy can help you recover from wrist pain and improve your wrist function.

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Hip pain can have a variety of causes, ranging from overuse injuries to degenerative conditions such as arthritis. Physical therapy can be an effective treatment option for many hip injuries and conditions, helping to reduce pain and improve function. Here are five common hip conditions that can be treated with physical therapy:

Hip bursitis:

Bursitis occurs when the bursae, small fluid-filled sacs located near joints, become inflamed. Hip bursitis can cause pain and tenderness in the hip area. Physical therapy for hip bursitis may include modalities such as ice or heat therapy, stretches to improve range of motion, and strengthening exercises for the muscles around the hip joint.

Hip labral tear:

The labrum is a ring of cartilage that lines the hip socket, providing stability to the joint. A hip labral tear can cause pain, stiffness, and a clicking or catching sensation in the hip joint. Physical therapy for hip labral tears may include exercises to improve hip stability and strength, as well as stretches to improve range of motion.

Hip osteoarthritis:

Osteoarthritis is a degenerative condition that can affect any joint, including the hip. Physical therapy for hip osteoarthritis may include modalities such as heat or cold therapy, exercises to improve hip range of motion, and strengthening exercises for the muscles around the hip joint.

Hip flexor strain:

The hip flexors are a group of muscles that help to lift the leg and bend the hip joint. A hip flexor strain can cause pain and weakness in the front of the hip. Physical therapy for hip flexor strains may include modalities such as ice or heat therapy, stretches to improve hip flexor flexibility, and strengthening exercises for the hip flexor muscles.

Piriformis syndrome:

The piriformis muscle is a small muscle located deep in the buttocks. Piriformis syndrome occurs when this muscle becomes tight and compresses the sciatic nerve, causing pain in the hip, buttocks, and down the leg. Physical therapy for piriformis syndrome may include modalities such as ice or heat therapy, stretches to improve piriformis flexibility, and strengthening exercises for the hip and gluteal muscles.

For more information on hip pain and injuries, check out this blog post!

At OSR Physical Therapy, our experienced physical therapists work with patients to develop individualized treatment plans based on their specific hip condition. Contact us to schedule an evaluation and find out how physical therapy can help you recover from hip pain and improve your hip function.

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• Post surgical conditions
• Throwing injuries
• Muscle strains
• Tendinitis/Tennis Elbow/Golfer’s Elbow
• Bursitis
• Ligament sprains
• Many others

• Post surgical conditions
• Os trigonum
• Ligament sprains and tears/Sprained ankles
• Tendinitis
• Chronic instability
• Impingement
• Shin splints
• Stress fractures
• Growth plate fractures
• Many others