Understanding human movement is crucial for massage therapists, especially those specializing in pain and injury. This scientific study of movement, known as kinesiology, forms the foundation of orthopedics, the medical field dedicated to addressing issues within the body’s movement system. In school, your kinesiology study may have focused on memorizing muscle actions. The value of […]
Is That A Supraspinatus Or Subscapularis Issue?
Introduction Rotator cuff pathology is one of the most common causes of shoulder pain. However, it is common for someone to get a diagnosis of a rotator cuff tear or dysfunction without specifying which rotator cuff muscle(s) is/are involved. The rotator cuff comprises four muscles: supraspinatus, infraspinatus, teres minor, and subscapularis. These muscles are regularly […]
An Inside Look at Bicipital Tendinopathy
Introduction Bicipital tendinopathy is a frequent source of anterior shoulder pain. The condition usually arises from overuse or adverse forces affecting the tendon. It is common with overhead shoulder movements like swimming, tennis, or throwing. It can also stem from work-related motions. Distinguishing its pain from similar shoulder issues requires thorough assessment for accurate recognition. […]
Suggested Variations on Standard Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Assessment Tests
Introduction Mention carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS), and most think of it as the leading upper extremity nerve entrapment issue. It is prevalent, especially among women and in certain professions involving extensive upper extremity use. Jobs with high-velocity, high-force labor, vibrating tools, or repetitive motions, like assembly-line work, increase CTS risks. Massage therapists are also particularly […]
Ulnar Nerve Entrapment
Introduction Upper extremity nerve compression is a frequent concern for many clients and a painful condition that can cause serious work-related challenges. Understanding these problematic conditions is crucial. Carpal tunnel syndrome is the most common upper extremity neurological disorder, but ulnar nerve compression is more prevalent than realized. The ulnar nerve can be compressed in […]
What You Should Know About Cartilage Injuries
Here we look at cartilage injuries that you may encounter in your practice and some key things you should know about these injuries. Massage may not play a primary role in correcting these problems, but it can be ani integral part of the pain management process in addressing them.
Exploring Plantar Foot Pain
Introduction Plantar foot pain can be a debilitating condition that severely impacts a client’s quality of life. There are numerous causes of foot pain, and the ideal treatment for each condition varies depending on the nature of the problem. In this post we explore several potential causes of plantar foot pain. In a future post, […]
Simple Guide to Trigger Finger Treatment
One of the more debilitating conditions in the hand is trigger finger. In this painful condition, the tendons of the finger or thumb cannot bend or straighten smoothly due to thickening, swelling, or nodules in the tendon, its synovial sheath, or the connective tissue bands around the finger. Trigger finger can be an overuse syndrome or a […]
What is a Baker’s Cyst?
A Baker’s cyst (or popliteal cyst) is a fluid-filled cyst that develops behind the knee and is usually a sign of another condition. Anatomy & Pathology Baker’s cysts develop posterior to the knee joint and are usually found directly behind the medial femoral condyle between the medial head of the gastrocnemius muscle and the semimembranosus […]
Chronic Cough: the Prequel (with Walt Fritz and Ruth Werner)
Summary: Til Luchau and Ruth Werner talk with Walt Fritz PT, as they prepare for some hands-on work with Ruth’s chronic cough. Listen in as these three powerhouse presenters discuss hands-on strategy, potential triggers, and psychosocial impacts related to chronic coughs. Ruth shares her personal experiences, emphasizing the challenges and similarities with chronic pain. Their […]