CHRONIC PAIN AND PT THE IMPORTANCE OF THE BIG PICTURE
MORE THAN JUST PAIN
Chronic pain, a widespread and debilitating condition, is defined as discomfort that lasts more than several months. It has been estimated that 25 million U.S. adults have experienced pain every day for the past three months. With such prolonged healing times, even minor pain can become unbearable. But what causes chronic pain, and how can those living with it address it effectively? Chronic pain can affect any area of the body, and stems from a variety of causes. Here at M3 Physical Therapy, we commonly treat patients who have chronic pain in the following areas: • Headaches caused by postural syndromes or work- related activities • Neck pain caused by car accidents, postural syndromes, or work-related activity • Lower back pain caused by car accidents, lifting injuries, or slip-and-fall injuries • Hip pain as a result of osteoarthritis or injury • Knee pain as a result of osteoarthritis or sports injuries COMMON CAUSES
Regardless of the source or severity of the pain, any prolonged condition can affect a person’s life. As once-easy activities grow difficult and other means of masking the pain (such as opioids) become more enticing, the effects of chronic pain begin to seep beyond the part of the body in distress. Worsening physical health and hygiene from debilitating pain are common, as are feelings of ennui. Finding a way to manage pain helps keep you moving, which in turn helps you stay healthy and happy. HOW PHYSICAL THERAPY CAN HELP Physical therapy is uniquely equipped to help people suffering from chronic pain. Beyond treating damaged muscles, tendons, ligaments, and joints, we also address the big picture. Through strength training, pain management exercises, posture instructions, and more, PT clinicians work to treat not just your pain, but the negative physical and mental effects that radiate from it. So if you or a loved one is suffering from ongoing pain, please reach out to us. Our clinical professionals won’t just treat the source of your pain, we’ll empower you to be more healthy and active throughout the healing process.
CITRUS AND AVOCADO SALAD
TAKE A BREAK
INGREDIENTS
• 1 blood, cara cara, or navel orange, sliced 1/8-inch thick and deseeded • 1 Meyer or regular lemon, sliced 1/8-inch thick and deseeded • 4 tablespoons olive oil, divided • 1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 bunch arugula • 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves • 1 avocado, cut into wedges • Salt and pepper, to taste
DIRECTIONS
1. Heat oven to 425 F. 2. In a rimmed baking sheet, toss citrus slices with 1 tablespoon oil and season with salt and pepper. Roast citrus until lightly charred and caramelized, about 10–15 minutes. Let cool. 3. Meanwhile, in a large mixing bowl, combine onion and lemon juice. Season with salt and let sit for 5 minutes. 4. Add citrus, arugula, and mint to onion mixture. Drizzle with remaining oil, season with salt and pepper to taste, and toss thoroughly. 5. Add avocado, combing very gently to not crush avocado.
LA · 310.275.4137 / WEST HILLS · 747.888.3562 | 3
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