Orthopedic Services

Orthopedic physical therapy is at the core of what we do at Lawrence General Hospital. Orthopedic physical therapists take care of the entire musculoskeletal system.

Joints, bones, tendons, muscles … The human body is incredible, and our experts can keep it functioning at its best – or help you get back to 100%. We’ll work closely with your physician, surgeon, or other specialist to create a treatment plan and provide the best and most comprehensive care possible.

Conditions We Treat

Orthopedic PT can help manage all types of musculoskeletal conditions and symptoms including:

• Joint pain
• Back and neck pain
• Balance and range of motion
• Sprains, strains, and tears
• Orthopedic surgery rehabilitation

Contact our team nearest you today to get started. 

Content Spotlight:
The Cold Shoulder: How Winter Impacts Joint Pain

Cold weather can have a significant impact on arthritis and joint pain. Many people with arthritis claim that their symptoms worsen during colder months. While the exact reasons for this are not fully understood, physical therapists can help.
 
LGH physical therapists are experts in helping people manage joint pain and arthritis. Here’s how a physical therapist might address the impact of cold weather on joint pain and offer suggestions for protection:
 
1. Stay Active: Physical therapists often emphasize the importance of staying active even in winter. They might suggest indoor exercises tailored to individual needs and limitations. Exercise helps keep joints flexible and strengthens the muscles around joints, providing better support.
 
2. Warm-up Properly: Before engaging in physical activity, it's crucial to warm up the body properly. A physical therapist might recommend specific warm-up exercises to prepare the joints and muscles for movement.
 
3. Dress Appropriately: Proper clothing can make a significant difference. Wearing layers to keep warm and using joint-specific supports like braces or compression sleeves can provide added warmth and support to arthritic joints.
 
4. Physical Therapy Techniques: Physical therapists use various techniques like joint mobilizations, stretching exercises, and manual therapy to improve joint mobility and reduce pain. These techniques can be especially helpful during the winter months.
 
5. Pain Management: Physical therapists might use modalities like heat therapy or ultrasound to manage pain and reduce stiffness in arthritic joints.
 
6. Educational Support: Physical therapists educate patients about their condition, teaching them techniques for managing pain and conserving energy. This knowledge empowers patients to take control of their symptoms during the winter season.
 
Remember, it's essential to consult a health care professional or a physical therapist for personalized advice tailored to your specific condition and needs.

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Content Spotlight:
A Pain in the Neck: Techniques for Treating Neck Pain 
 

Physical therapy can be highly effective in treating headaches and neck pain. Here are some ways in which physical therapy, along with proper sleep positions and techniques like dry needling, can help improve these conditions:
 
Physical Therapy:
 
1. Posture Correction: Poor posture can contribute to neck pain and headaches. Physical therapists can teach you correct posture for sitting, standing, and even sleeping. They can also provide exercises to strengthen the muscles that support your neck and upper back.
 
2. Neck Exercises: Therapists can guide you through specific exercises to improve the range of motion in your neck and strengthen the muscles. These exercises can help reduce pain and prevent future episodes.
 
3. Manual Therapy: Therapists may use hands-on techniques to mobilize the neck and upper spine. This can help alleviate stiffness and improve flexibility.
 
4. Stretching Exercises: Gentle stretching exercises can help relieve muscle tension. Your therapist can demonstrate appropriate stretches for your neck and shoulder muscles.
 
5. Strengthening Exercises: Strengthening the neck and upper back muscles can provide better support to the spine and reduce strain on the neck.
 
Sleep Positions:
 
1. Pillow Support: Use a supportive pillow that keeps your neck in a neutral position. Pillows that are too high or too flat can strain your neck muscles.
 
2. Sleeping on Your Back: If possible, try sleeping on your back with a pillow to support the natural curve of your neck.
 
3. Avoid Stomach Sleeping: This position can strain your neck and spine. If you must sleep on your stomach, use a thin pillow or none at all.
 
Dry Needling:
 
Dry needling is a technique in which thin needles are inserted into trigger points in muscles to relieve pain and improve range of motion. It can be particularly effective for headaches and neck pain caused by muscle tightness and trigger points. However, it's essential to have this done by a qualified and experienced practitioner.
 
Always consult with a health care professional or physical therapist before starting any new exercises or treatments, especially if you have underlying health conditions. They can provide personalized guidance tailored to your specific needs and medical history.