We hope that you are doing well and that you are getting out to enjoy the longer days and warmer temperatures of March.
In this second issue of the Active Motion E-News:
- We examine some causes and treatments of knee pain
- We take a look at the team of AMPT therapists and their respective areas of interest
- We shed some light on Active Motion's website resources and take a look at some upcoming "Active" events in the Bow Valley
OH MY ACH'N KNEES ! - Patellofemoral Pain
Very common amongst runners, walkers and skiers, Patellofemoral Pain is discomfort originating from the patella (a.k.a knee cap). Alignment issues and/or overuse can lead to wear and tear of the cartilage behind the patella, which in turn hinders its ability to "track" properly within the groove of the femur. The patella has a tendency to be "pulled" laterally towards the outside of the knee, which results in pain in the front of the knee, under the patella.
The 3 primary causes of Patellofemoral Pain include:
Muscle Tightness: Tightness in the gluts, hip rotators, iliotibial (IT) band, and lateral quadriceps muscles have a tendency to pull the knee cap laterally.
Poor Muscle Coordination: Weakness or poor coordination of the vastus medialis obliquus (VMO) results in abnormal pressure on the articular (under) surface of the patella.
Biomechanics: Poor outer hip musculature control and/or flat feet allow the femur to rotate inwards, toward the opposite knee. Internal rotation of the femur can also result in abnormal tracking of the patella in the femoral groove.
In treating Patellofemoral Pain, it is important to catch it early and to determine what the underlying cause is . Should it be from muscle tightness then Massage, Active Release Techniques (ART), Acupuncture, and stretching are all very effective treatment options. In the event that it is being caused by poor muscle coordination, then working with your Physiotherapist on neuromuscular re-education is your best option. Finally, if poor biomechanics is to blame, Custom Foot Orthotics, better shoes and improving neuromuscular control of the hip's external rotators (through stretching and strengthening exercises) will offer the best results.
Further reading on Patellofemoral Pain is available by clicking here
THE AMPT TEAM - Delivering Results You Desire
Active Motion Physiotherapy provides an environment that allows all members of our community to achieve their individual goals : including alleviating pain, regaining function, and returning to optimal sporting condition. In addition to our technical expertise, we offer the support and encouragement needed to achieve great health. We understand that physiotherapy can be a lot of work and we are here to give the attention you deserve to allow you to achieve the results you desire.
AMPT offers a comprehensive range of services through both the AMPT clinics in Canmore and Banff. Specific areas of focus for each Therapist include :
Hugh Simson (Banff and Canmore): Active Release Technique (ART) certified, with strong knowledge in all extremities and the lower back. Also conducts Work Place Ergonomic Assessments and is MVA and WCB certified
Corinne Huggill (Banff): Highest level Part B (FCAMT) manual and manipulative therapy (certified through CPTA for extremities and spine), Acupuncture (CAFCI), TMJ, complex injuries, cranio-sacral therapy, myo-facial release, MVA, WCB
Lisa Pearson (Canmore): Highest level Part B (FCAMT) manual and manipulative therapy (certified through CPTA for extremities and spine), Acupuncture, Custom Foot Orthotics, sports injuries, complex injuries, TMJ, MVA
Scott Edmunds (Canmore): Therapeutic and Sports Massage, injuries, preventative treatment, TMJ
Jill McAulay (Banff): Spinal Manipulation, Cranial sacral technique, Myofascial release, Osteopathic treatment for headaches, Ergonomic assessments, MVA and WCB certified.
Please feel free to contact us with any questions you may have regarding our services.
* For further information on credentials and designations please click here
* For a more in-depth look at AMPT's Therapists please click here
AMPT- BEYOND THE CLINIC
Have you checked out the NEW Active Motion Physio website ? Our newly redesigned site offers a wealth of information on many common ailments and injuries, as well as information on treatment options and preventative measures. The "Explore" section provides information, diagrams and detailed descriptions of joints, muscles and tendons and is a perfect compliment to your one-on-one therapy sessions.
'ACTIVE' EVENTS IN THE VALLEY
Hugh Simson and Scott Edmunds will be on-site at the Rocky Mountain Soap Company Women's Run , April 25 / 09, offering their support and professional expertise to the 1100 participants. Looking forward to seeing you out for a great active day, whether you are participating or cheering on the racers!
WE WELCOME YOUR FEEDBACK...
Please feel free to drop us a line anytime with any comments or questions. Or, if you have a topic you would like us to cover in an upcoming newsletter, please let us know.
info@activemotionphysio.ca
Thanks for reading *user_first_name*. We look forward to working with you for any of your Physiotherapy and Massage Therapy needs.
Yours in health,
THE ACTIVE MOTION TEAM