PolishukPT_Shoulder Elbow and Wrist Pain

Handling Your Pain

Staff Spotlight Brian Murphy

EXERCISE PHYSIOLOGIST

Brian received his Associates degree in Exercise Science and Wellness from Montgomery County Community College. He is a certified Personal Trainer through the American Council of Exercise (ACE) and is continuing his education. Brian has a personal interest in physical therapy and rehabilitation as the result of a serious wrist injury that required extensive surgery followed by a rehabilitation program. Brian enjoys spending time with friends and family and is an avid Philadelphia sports fan. He enjoys playing basketball, working out at the gym, and spending time with his German Shepard Bella. He has a large sneaker collection and is a food enthusiast. He also devotes time to training youth with special needs.

One of the biggest concerns in treating pain in the shoulder, elbow, and wrist is that every movement and action requires their use, so it seems difficult, if not impossible, to allow them to heal. When the pain develops in both arms, as it often does, treating the pain becomes even more complicated. As painful shoulders, elbows, and wrists continue to be used for every movement, the pain can worsen and the condition becomes chronic. Treating Shoulder, Elbow and Wrist Pain. Addressing the pain early on is the best way to prevent an issue from becoming chronic. Turning to medication and braces for pain management is not a long-term solution and will delay the inevitable — that you need to find the root cause of your pain. Physical therapy is the ideal tool for support in this regard. A physical therapist will help you understand what movements may be causing your discomfort, and can offer treatment, as well as help you to strengthen the surrounding muscles while improving range of motion. Don’t assume that pain in your shoulders, elbows, or wrists will go away on its own. It is more common for the pain to worsen, and compensating for the pain in one arm by overusing the opposite arm can cause further injury to develop. For support with learning how to manage the pain, and to learn exercises and techniques that can help you overcome the injury and restore proper strength and functionality to your shoulders, elbows, and wrists, contact your physical therapist.

2-Ingredient Coconut Yogurt

Ingredients

• 1 14-oz can full fat coconut milk • 2 capsules vegan-friendly probiotic

Directions

1. Shake coconut milk well. Pour into a sterilized glass jar or bowl. Empty probiotic capsules into coconut milk and stir until creamy and smooth. Do not use a metal spoon. 2. Cover with cheesecloth, secure with a rubber band, and place in a warm place for at least 24 hours and up to 48 hours. The longer it rests, the tangier it will be. 3. Cover securely with a lid. Refrigerate until cold. 4. Mix in chia seeds to thicken further and for added nutritional value. You may also add fresh fruit. 5. Store covered in the refrigerator.

Before you can treat your shoulder, elbow or wrist pain, you need to know why it started. Whether you’ve tweaked a muscle or have a deeper injury, a physical therapist can help.

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