Causes of Low Back Pain, Muscle Spasms, Sciatica & Treatment Options

Introduction
Dealing with persistent lower back pain, muscle spasms, or sciatica can be both frustrating and debilitating. However, finding effective solutions no longer requires frequent visits to a doctor or physical therapy office. With advancements in hands-on manual therapy, soft tissue techniques, and innovative devices like the StimPod, you can now experience relief from these conditions in the comfort and privacy of your own home or office. In this blog post, we will explore the common causes of lower back pain, muscle spasms, and sciatica, and introduce a convenient solution provided by Concierge Pain Relief - Home Physical Therapy.
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Understanding the Causes of Lower Back Pain, Muscle Spasms, and Sciatica 
#1. Lower Back Pain:
Common causes of lower back pain include muscle strains, herniated discs, spinal stenosis, poor posture, and even stress. These factors can lead to inflammation, muscle imbalances, and nerve compression, resulting in varying degrees of discomfort.

#2. Muscle Spasms:
Muscle spasms are involuntary contractions of muscles and can occur due to muscle strain, overuse, dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, or underlying conditions such as herniated discs or spinal instability. These spasms often cause intense pain and restrict mobility.

#3. Sciatica:
Sciatica refers to the irritation or compression of the sciatic nerve, which extends from the lower back down through the legs. The most common cause of sciatica is a herniated or bulging disc, which puts pressure on the nerve. This condition often leads to sharp, shooting pain, numbness, or tingling sensations along the affected leg.

Traditional Treatment Options
Traditionally, seeking relief from back pain, muscle spasms, or sciatica would involve visits to doctors or physical therapy offices. These treatments might include medication, exercises, stretches, and manual therapy. However, Concierge Pain Relief offers a unique alternative by bringing the therapy directly to your doorstep.

The Benefits of Concierge, Home Physical Therapy
Home-based therapy offers several advantages over traditional clinic visits. Firstly, it eliminates the need for travel, allowing individuals with mobility limitations or time constraints to receive timely and convenient care. Secondly, therapy in a familiar environment can enhance relaxation and comfort, optimizing the response to treatment techniques. Lastly, personalized one-on-one attention ensures a tailored approach to your specific needs.

Hands-On Manual Therapy and Soft Tissue Techniques
Concierge Pain Relief's skilled therapists employ hands-on manual therapy and soft tissue techniques to address lower back pain, muscle spasms, and sciatica. These techniques may include joint mobilizations, myofascial release, and gentle stretches to alleviate pain, reduce muscle tension, and restore proper alignment. By targeting the root causes of your discomfort, these methods aim to improve functionality and overall well-being.

The StimPod: A Revolutionary Medical Device 
In conjunction with manual therapy and soft tissue techniques, Concierge Pain Relief utilizes the StimPod, a state-of-the-art pulsed radio-frequency stimulation device. The StimPod delivers comfortable electrical impulses to the affected area, promoting circulation, reducing inflammation, and accelerating the body's natural healing processes. This breakthrough technology complements hands-on therapy, enhancing the overall effectiveness of the treatment.

Convenience and Accessibility
The convenience and accessibility of Concierge Pain Relief's services are unmatched. By calling (646)-781-8884, you can easily inquire about their expertise, schedule an appointment, and have a skilled therapist come directly to your home or office. Eliminating the need for travel, crowded waiting rooms, and time-consuming clinic visits, this service ensures a stress-free and efficient treatment experience.
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Conclusion
Don't let lower back pain, muscle spasms, or sciatica control your life. With the help of hands-on manual therapy, soft tissue techniques, and the revolutionary StimPod device, Concierge Pain Relief offers a convenient solution right at your doorstep. Reach out to them at (646)-781-8884 and take the first step towards regaining a pain-free and functional life.

How To Fix Jaw Pain (TMJ, TMD)

Introduction
Living with daily jaw pain and discomfort, temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ), or temporomandibular dysfunction (TMD) can be very frustrating and disruptive.

However, finding relief from these conditions is now easier than ever, thanks to the advancements in hands-on manual therapy and innovative medical devices like the StimPod. In this blog post, we will explore the common causes of jaw pain, TMJ, and TMD, and introduce a convenient solution that allows you to receive personalized care in the privacy of your home or office.

Understanding the Causes of Jaw Pain, TMJ, and TMD
Jaw pain can stem from various factors, including stress, teeth grinding, misalignment of the jaw joint, arthritis, trauma, or even poor posture. TMJ and TMD are often associated with pain, stiffness, and dysfunction of the temporomandibular joint, which connects the jawbone to the skull. Symptoms can manifest as jaw clicking or popping, difficulty opening or closing the mouth, headaches, earaches, and facial pain.

Traditional Treatment Options
Conventionally, seeking relief from jaw pain, TMJ, or TMD would involve visiting a doctor or a physical therapy office. These options might require multiple appointments, travel, and additional expenses. However, with Concierge Pain Relief - Home Physical Therapy, you can now receive expert care in the comfort and convenience of your own home or office.

The Benefits of Concierge, Home-Based Physical Therapy
Opting for home-based therapy offers numerous advantages. Firstly, it eliminates the need for transportation and the associated hassles, making treatment easily accessible to individuals with mobility limitations. Additionally, receiving therapy in a familiar environment enhances relaxation, enabling better response to treatment techniques. Home-based therapy also allows for personalized, one-on-one attention, ensuring a tailored approach to your specific needs.

Hands-On Manual Therapy
At Concierge Pain Relief, our skilled therapists utilize hands-on manual therapy techniques to address jaw pain, TMJ, and TMD. Wearing non-latex gloves, our therapists employ gentle manipulations and exercises to alleviate tension, restore proper alignment, and promote healing. These techniques are designed to improve jaw function, reduce pain, and enhance overall quality of life.

The StimPod: A Medical Breakthrough Device
In addition to hands-on therapy, Concierge Pain Relief incorporates the use of a cutting-edge device called the StimPod. This comfortable pulsed radio-frequency stimulation device delivers targeted electrical impulses to the affected area, stimulating blood flow, reducing inflammation, and promoting healing. The non-invasive nature of the StimPod makes it a safe and effective adjunct to manual therapy, further enhancing the treatment outcomes.

Convenience and Accessibility
The greatest advantage of opting for Concierge Pain Relief is the convenience and accessibility it offers. You no longer need to travel or wait in crowded waiting rooms; instead, the therapy comes to you. By calling (646)-781-8884, you can easily inquire about our services, schedule an appointment, and have a skilled therapist arrive at your doorstep, ensuring a hassle-free and efficient treatment experience.

Conclusion
Don't let jaw pain, TMJ, or TMD disrupt your life any longer. With the help of hands-on manual therapy and the revolutionary StimPod, you can now find relief in the privacy of your own home or office. Reach out to Concierge Pain Relief - Home Physical Therapy at (646)-781-8884 and take the first step towards regaining control over your jaw health. Say goodbye to the discomfort and hello to a pain-free, functional jaw.

​Ankle Joint Surgery, Ankle Rehab, and In Home Physical Therapy.

Ankle joint surgery and rehabilitation are crucial components of restoring mobility and function for individuals with ankle injuries or conditions. Traditionally, physical therapy has been conducted in clinical settings. However, advancements in healthcare delivery now allow for convenient hands-on in-home physical therapy. In this blog article, we will explore ankle joint surgery, the importance of rehabilitation, and how in-home physical therapy can provide a convenient and effective approach to recovery. Throughout the article, we will reference relevant research and citations to support the information presented.
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Ankle Joint Surgery: Restoring Stability and Function 
Ankle joint surgery is often performed to address various conditions, including severe ligament tears, fractures, tendon injuries, or chronic ankle instability. The goal of surgery is to restore stability and function, relieving pain and allowing individuals to regain their mobility. Specific surgical procedures may involve ligament repair or reconstruction, tendon repair, or joint realignment.

Importance of Rehabilitation after Ankle Joint Surgery
Rehabilitation plays a vital role in the success of ankle joint surgery. It aims to optimize healing, restore range of motion, rebuild strength, improve balance, and enhance functional abilities. Research by Chan et al. (2018) emphasized the importance of a structured rehabilitation program after ankle surgery for achieving optimal outcomes and reducing the risk of complications. The physical therapy and rehabilitation process typically involves a combination of exercises, manual therapy, and functional training.

In-Home Physical Therapy: A Convenient Approach 
In the past, individuals undergoing ankle joint surgery had to travel (in their heavy boot with crutches, and probably paying for a taxi cab or car service each direction) and visit physical therapy clinics regularly for their rehabilitation sessions 2-3 times per. However, with the start of concierge in-home physical therapy services, the recovery process has become more convenient and accessible. In-home physical therapy allows patients to receive personalized care and hands-on treatment in the comfort and privacy of their own homes, eliminating the need for travel and minimizing disruptions to their daily routines (such as work Zoom calls). 

Benefits of In-Home Physical Therapy 
In-home physical therapy offers several benefits that contribute to a more effective and efficient recovery process. Firstly, patients receive one-on-one attention from a licensed doctor physical therapist, ensuring personalized care tailored to their specific needs. Research by Skjæret et al. (2016) indicated that individualized physical therapy led to better outcomes in terms of pain reduction and functional improvement. Secondly, therapy sessions can be scheduled at the patient's convenience, accommodating their work and personal commitments. Thirdly, in-home physical therapy allows therapists to assess and address any home environment factors that may impact recovery and provide appropriate recommendations.

Hands-On Manual Therapy in In-Home Physical Therapy 
Hands-on manual therapy techniques are often utilized in in-home physical therapy to complement exercise programs and promote healing. These techniques may include joint mobilizations, soft tissue mobilizations, and therapeutic massage. A study by Cleland et al. (2010) demonstrated the efficacy of manual therapy in reducing pain and improving function in individuals with ankle sprains. By incorporating manual therapy into in-home sessions, therapists can address joint restrictions, reduce swelling, improve circulation, and enhance overall recovery. 

Surgeon Post-Surgical Protocol and Communication
We already have some of the top NYC surgeon's trusting us and referring their patients to our home concierge service.  Every surgeon is different, and many of them want you and us to follow a specific post-surgical protocol during your specific rehabilitation.  We know it's very important to maintain communicate with your surgeon (and their physical assistant, PA). We will keep them in the loop and updated on your progress, as well as communicate with them if see suspect or identify any post-surgical issues, including but limited to discharge from your wound site, signs of infection at or around your wound site, calf pain potentially caused by a deep vein thrombosis (DVT), or other complication. Luckily, these issues and complications are rare. 

Do you have an upcoming ankle, foot, or toe surgery?

Would you like to inquire about insurance, cost, and availability of convenient in-home concierge physical therapy in the New York City area?

Concierge Pain Relief offers a convenient solution right at your doorstep. Reach out to us at (646)-781-8884 and take the first step towards regaining a pain-free and functional life.

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10 Causes of Heel and Calf Pain When Running

Introduction:
Heel and calf pain are common complaints among runners, affecting both seasoned athletes and beginners. The term "heel pain" or "calf pain" can refer to various specific conditions and areas of discomfort. Understanding the causes behind these conditions is crucial for effective management and prevention. In this article, we will explore ten possible causes of heel and calf pain when running, providing insights backed by research and scientific evidence.

#1. Plantar Fasciitis:
One of the most prevalent causes of heel pain, plantar fasciitis, occurs due to inflammation of the plantar fascia ligament. This condition often results from repetitive stress and overuse, causing sharp or stabbing pain in the bottom of the heel. Stretching exercises, supportive footwear, and orthotics are common treatment options for plantar fasciitis (Huffer et al., 2017). At Concierge Pain Relief, we fix plantar fasciitis weekly and we do so with manual therapy, StimPod stimulation, taping, and teaching you progressive balance and stability exercises. 

#2. Achilles Tendinopathy:
Achilles tendinopathy refers to pain and inflammation of the Achilles tendon. This condition can arise from excessive strain or overloading of the tendon during running activities. It typically presents as pain in the back of the heel and can progress to chronic tendon degeneration if not properly addressed. Eccentric exercises and gradual return to activity are key components of Achilles tendinopathy management (Maffulli et al., 2018). At Concierge Pain Relief, we treat achilles tendinopathy very often and we do so with manual therapy, StimPod stimulation, taping, and teaching you progressive eccentric strengthening exercises. 

#3. Stress Fracture:
Repeated stress on the bones of the lower leg can lead to stress fractures, which are small cracks in the bone. Overtraining, sudden increases in running intensity, or poor biomechanics may contribute to stress fractures. Pain is typically localized and worsens during weight-bearing activities. Adequate rest, modified training, and gradual return to activity are essential for stress fracture recovery (Warden et al., 2014). 

#4. Heel Spur:
Heel spurs are abnormal bony growths that form on the underside of the heel bone. While heel spurs themselves may not cause pain, they often coexist with conditions such as plantar fasciitis. The repetitive strain on the plantar fascia can lead to the formation of a spur, exacerbating heel discomfort. Conservative treatments, including stretching exercises and orthotics, are commonly employed to alleviate symptoms (Riddle et al., 2014).

#5. Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome:
Tarsal tunnel syndrome occurs when the tibial nerve in the ankle becomes compressed or entrapped, leading to pain and tingling sensations along the heel and sole of the foot. Overpronation and biomechanical abnormalities can contribute to this condition. Rest, orthotics, and physical therapy is recommended to relieve symptoms and restore normal nerve function and foot function, including but not limited to your foot's movements and biomechanics (Elkaissi et al., 2020). At Concierge Pain Relief, we treat tarsal tunnel syndrome by using StimPod radio-frequency stimulation for nerve pain treatment and neuro modulation. 

#6. Medial Calcaneal Nerve:
Compression or irritation of the medial calcaneal nerve can result in chronic heel pain. This condition, known as medial calcaneal neuritis, often presents with a burning or shooting pain on the inside of the heel. Proper shoe selection, orthotics, and activity modification are primary treatment approaches for relieving symptoms (Vaseenon et al., 2019).  Here at Concierge Pain Relief, we fix medial calcaneal nerve issues by using a small portable device called the StimPod radio-frequency stimulation for nerve pain treatment and neuro modulation. 

#7. Baxter's Nerve:
Baxter's nerve entrapment occurs when the first branch of the lateral plantar nerve becomes compressed, leading to heel pain. This condition is often misdiagnosed as plantar fasciitis due to overlapping symptoms. Treatment options may include corticosteroid injections, physical therapy, or surgical interventions for severe cases (Kim et al., 2016). Here at Concierge Pain Relief, we reverse Baxter's nerve issues by using a small portable device called the StimPod radio-frequency stimulation for nerve pain treatment and neuro modulation. It's a pain-free and comfortable treatment that lasts just 10 minutes.

#8. Lateral Calcaneal Nerve:
Irritation or entrapment of the lateral calcaneal nerve, a branch of the sural nerve, can cause lateral heel pain. This condition, known as lateral calcaneal neuritis, may arise from repetitive stress or trauma to the lateral aspect of the heel. Rest, ice, stretching, and the use of appropriate footwear are typical management strategies (Anand et al., 2017).  For lateral calcaneal nerve issues, we will resolve this issue by using a small portable device called the StimPod that delivers radio-frequency stimulation for nerve pain treatment and neuro modulation. It's a pain-free and comfortable treatment that lasts just 10 minutes.

#9. Sural Nerve:
The sural nerve runs along the back of the calf and outer aspect of the foot. Nerve entrapment or irritation can lead to pain in the calf or heel area. Runners with tight calf muscles or improper footwear are at a higher risk. Rest, stretching, and addressing contributing factors, such as footwear and training errors, are key to resolving sural nerve-related pain (Tateishi et al., 2014). If you suspect you have sural nerve issues or have been diagnosed with this condition, we fix these nerve issues by using a small portable device called the StimPod that delivers radio-frequency stimulation for nerve pain treatment and neuro modulation. It's a pain-free and comfortable treatment that lasts just 10 minutes.

#10. Lower Back Referred Pain (from L5-S2 nerve roots, "pinched nerve" pain referred to your calf or foot):
Calf and heel pain can also originate from lower back issues, specifically from nerve impingements or herniated discs between the L5 and S2 vertebrae. Nerve compression can cause radiating pain down the leg, affecting the calf and heel. Correct diagnosis and appropriate treatment, which will include hands-on physical therapy, are crucial for relieving symptoms (Hoy et al., 2012).  Injections such as cortisone or epidurals might be warranted in extreme situations if pain is severe, however, these injections just mask your symptoms and do nothing to fix the source of your pain.  If you are experiencing these symptoms and you want to fix the root cause of your pain, definitely contact a hands-on licensed physical therapist who can resolve your issue naturally without injections or surgery. We travel to our clients in the NYC area, and we see this diagnosis often. Pinched nerves referring pain into the lower leg is common. It can and will be fixed with the combination of gentle spinal mobilizations, hip mobilizations, lower leg mobilizations, gentle nerve flossing mobilizations, and direct nerve treatment using pulsed radio-frequency stimulation from our small portable device, StimPod, that we bring to our client's home apartments or their workplace. 

Conclusion:
Heel and calf pain in runners can stem from a range of causes, including plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendinopathy, stress fractures, nerve entrapments, and referred pain from the lower back. Identifying the specific cause of pain is vital for implementing appropriate treatment strategies and preventing further complications. If you experience persistent or worsening symptoms, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional or a sports medicine specialist for accurate diagnosis and personalized guidance to aid your recovery and maintain an active running routine.

References & Research Citations:
Anand, P., Masih, G. D., Ichaporia, N., & Turel, A. (2017). Lateral calcaneal neuritis: a case series and literature review. Journal of Foot and Ankle Surgery, 56(3), 629-633.

Elkaissi, M., Raoufy, M. R., & Perkowski, S. (2020). Tarsal tunnel syndrome: a comprehensive review. Cureus, 12(6), e8770.

Hoy, D., March, L., Brooks, P., Blyth, F., Woolf, A., Bain, C., ... & Buchbinder, R. (2012). The global burden of low back pain: estimates from the Global Burden of Disease 2010 study. Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases, 73(6), 968-974.

Huffer, D., Hing, W., Newton, R., & Clair, M. (2017). Strength training for plantar fasciitis and the intrinsic foot musculature: a systematic review. Physical Therapy in Sport, 23, 130-140.

Kim, E. S., Yoon, K. B., Park, J. S., & Kim, J. H. (2016). The treatment of Baxter's nerve entrapment neuropathy: a technical note. Journal of Foot and Ankle Surgery, 55(2), 403-406.

Maffulli, N., Longo, U. G., & Denaro, V. (2018). Achilles tendinopathy: basic science and clinical practice. Sports Medicine and Arthroscopy Review, 26(1), 16-23.

Riddle, D. L., Schappert, S. M., & Volume, P. (2014). Volume of ambulatory care visits and patterns of care for patients diagnosed with plantar fasciitis: a national study of medical doctors. Foot & Ankle International, 35(6), 591-598.

Tateishi, C., Hattori, Y., Ishihara, M., Noguchi, H., & Sumi, M. (2014). Sural nerve entrapment neuropathy caused by gastrocnemius muscle tear: a report of two cases. Journal of Orthopaedic Science, 19(4), 686-690.

Vaseenon, T., Vaseenon, P., & Laosamut, P. (2019). The effect of medial calcaneal nerve neurolysis on heel pain after plantar fasciitis surgery: a prospective randomized controlled trial. Journal of the Medical Association of Thailand, 102(9), 1089-1094.

Warden, S. J., Davis, I. S., & Fredericson, M. (2014). Management and prevention of bone stress injuries in long-distance runners. Journal of Orthopaedic Sports Physical Therapy, 44(10), 749-765.
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>> If you have calf, foot, or heel pain with running or jogging...
Call us 24/7 at (646)-781-8884

Are You Struggling with Annoying and Frustrating Daily Knee Pain?

​Attention active New Yorkers!

Are you tired of suffering from knee pain that prevents you from living your best life?

Are you hesitant to turn to addictive pain medications, painful injections, or risky surgeries to find relief?

We have good news for you! Concierge Pain Relief - Home Physical Therapy offers an alternative solution that can help you manage your pain and regain your mobility without any of the negative side effects.

Our team of experienced doctors of physical therapy provides concierge in-home therapy services that are customized to your individual needs.

We work with you to develop a personalized and individualized treatment plan that targets the root cause of your knee pain, and help you build strength and flexibility in your knees.

Our approach is based on evidence-based practices, and we use a combination of manual therapy, therapeutic exercises, and modalities to help you manage your pain, improve your function, and enhance your overall quality of life.

Don't let knee pain hold you back any longer!

Give us a call at (646)-781-8884 to schedule a consultation with one of our knee specialist doctors of physical therapy.

We will work with you to develop a plan that fits your lifestyle, and get you on the road to recovery.

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