ADOLESCENT SPORTS INJURIES
SPINAL DYSFUNCTION

Dave Patel, PT, CSCS is specially trained in the management of orthopedic extremity and spinal dysfunctions including adolescent sports injuries. A hands-on approach to assessment and treatment of physical conditions is the hallmark of our practice. Range of motion, stretching, joint/soft tissue mobilization, strengthening and neuromuscular re-education are specific techniques used to reduce pain, restore range of motion and strength, and increase function. As patients obtain their goals in physical therapy, they are taught home exercise programs and given strategies for preventing future injuries.

Shoulder Pain - Rotator Cuff tendonitis, tears and Impingement Syndrome produce pain and difficulty using the injured arm, especially overhead. Proper strengthening, inflammation control and hands-on care can often successfully solve these problems. Sometimes, additional treatment with an orthopedic surgeon, or physiatrist is necessary and will work most successfully in combination with a rehabilitation program at Excel Physical Therapy.

Common Conditions Treated- Diagnoses commonly include but are not limited to:
Low Back Pain - Hands-on care combined with rehabilitative exercises and education is the most effective approach for treating back pain. To relieve low back pain, one must learn how to maintain Neutral Spine Posture in all activities and restful positions. This also requires flexibility and strength of the muscles of the trunk, arms and legs. Pain and Inflammation is managed with modalities and hands on approaches.

Frozen Shoulder - Also known as Adhesive Capsulitis, this condition is caused by the shoulder capsule forming scar tissue that "sticks" to the bones in the joint, thus preventing full movement. Progressive stretching by a therapist along with strengthening and home programs can often restore motion without surgery.

Knee Pain – Meniscus and ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) tears are a common sports-related injury. Excel Pyhsical Therapy has developed an innovative ACL injury prevention program. We also have successfully rehabilitated many athletes and non-athletes following surgery for these tears. Aggressive strengthening and range of motion restoration protocols are key to full function. Other conditions such as arthritis, meniscal tears, and patello-femoral syndrome, which produces painful "crunchiness" under the knee cap, also respond well to our therapy techniques.

Neck Pain - Whether it is following an automobile accident or due to work or sleep postures, neck pain is generally relieved when joint motion is restored, muscles regain their pliability, inflammation is minimized, and you learn how to adjust posture and work stations to maintain the ideal posture for your neck. Strengthening of the supportive muscles as well as arm, chest and back muscles further speeds up the healing process. Muscle tension headaches often accompany neck pain and respond well to these therapies.

Carpel Tunnel Syndrome – Wrist and hand pain often extending to forearm, elbow, shoulder and shoulder blade could be very debilitating and annoying. Proper education and self management techniques are a must and it can be relieved with use of Physical therapy modalities and activities. Scar tissue release and desensitization is an important factor in people who had carpel tunnel release surgery and have hypersensitive scar.

Planterfascitis – Is a painful foot condition often caused due to poor foot wear and excessive stress from extended hours of standing, walking etc. Patients often experience severe pain and difficulty putting their foot down when getting out of the bed in the morning or middle of the night. It may also give burning sensation in the foot as the day progresses.
Functional taping is where an extremity or part of the body is taped with an elastic hypo allergic tape that reduces pain and spasm in affected region. It keeps affected area well supported allowing for the activities of daily living. It is also proven to reduce swelling and inflammation at the cellular level.

Myofascial Release refers to the manual massage technique for stretching the fascia and releasing bonds between fascia and integument, muscles, and bones, with the goal of eliminating pain, increasing range of motion and balancing the body. Fascia is located between the skin and the underlying structure of muscle and bone, it is a seamless web of connective tissue that covers and connects the muscles, organs, and skeletal structures in our body. Muscle and fascia are united forming the myofascia system.

Rehabiligym is a concept that combines the supervision of rehabilitation professionals with the convenience and flexibility of a gym. Rehabiligym gradually transitions patients from hands-on care to an independent exercise program. Physical Therapists are also available to answer questions about injury prevention, equipment use, exercise and other health issues. Rehabiligym is also ideal for patients who are interested in continuing their exercise program after completing physical therapy but are not comfortable in a gym setting.

What Patients Say About Excel PhysicalTherapy

“I got better care and attention for my lowback pain here than anywhere else so far. I saw significant improvement with each visit and can carry my grand children now and play with them which I couldn’t for last few months. Thanks to Excel.” - Martha

“I couldn’t put any pressure on my leg for last few months because of intense pain and after just one visit, my leg pain was gone and after 6 more visits of strengthening program, I can run now.” – Britney.

“I would like to commend Excel Physical Therapy on the excellent treatment I received in the past 4-5 weeks I’ve come here. I’m walking without my cane and able to do more of my household chores too. Thank you Excel” - Ms. B. Frye 

Excel Physical Therapy
2100 N Arrowhead Ave
San Bernardino, CA 92405
Ph: 909-882-9822 Fax:909-882-1388
email: xltherapy@yahoo.com