Local Voices
October is National Physical Therapy Month Mass Bay Spine & Sport of Marshfield Advises on Avoiding Injury & Over-Training
In recognition of National Physical Therapy Month, Mass Bay Spine & Sport (MBSSPT) physical therapists share tips on avoiding injury and over-training.
According to Brendan Carman, PT, DPT, ATC, president of Mass Bay Spine & Sport, "Our role is to educate patients about the body's normal and abnormal physiological response to challenges in the body. If you understand what the abnormal response is, you will better identify when there is a problem and intervene by resting or seeking physical therapy before it becomes a major issue."
Find out what's happening in Plymouthwith free, real-time updates from Patch.
Some issues, such as Achilles tendonitis, Plantar Fasciitis and shin splints, are serious injuries that can result from a new fitness program or over-training. Runners, in particular, often focus more on endurance and stamina than on overall strengthening of the entire lower body. Aches and pains are the first indicator of over-training.
Find out what's happening in Plymouthwith free, real-time updates from Patch.
Carman continued, "Aches and pains will become more significant if you ignore them. The tissues break down and can become an injury if not addressed and can take weeks to resolve. In particular, untreated Achilles tendonitis can get progressively worse and result in degeneration of the tendon."
Other triggers that can lead to injury include abrupt changes in regimen, poor or improper footwear and muscle imbalance. According to Carman, "Whether you've just begun a fitness program or you've been running for years, muscle imbalance can play a major role."
For example, adding five miles to that daily run or altering the pace are both abrupt changes in regimen that can spark an injury. Worn out or improperly sized sneakers offer no support and create problems, for runners and others.
"Muscle imbalance or weakness that doesn't get addressed is the fundamental problem most of the time. It's imperative to listen to what your body is telling you," Carman concluded.
About MBSSPT
Mass Bay Spine & Sport Physical Therapy (MBSSPT) is an orthopedic outpatient physical therapy practice with an on-site medical gym located in Marshfield. A state-of-the-art facility owned and operated by a physical therapist, MBSSPT has earned a reputation for superior clinical care and delivery of services to South Shore community members as well as to referring physicians from Boston to Plymouth.
The practice's highly trained staff is committed to providing clients with an experience that will ensure their condition is resolved effectively and efficiently, while empowering them with the necessary tools and knowledge to prevent future problems and maintain optimal health. All of the practice's physical therapists are trained to rehabilitate a variety of conditions utilizing treatment techniques that include soft tissue massage/mobilization, therapeutic and strengthening exercises, neuromuscular reeducation, gait training, patient education, and lumbar stabilization, to name a few. MBSSPT accepts Medicare, Workers' Compensation, auto insurance, and most private insurance plans.
MBSSPT is located at 506 Plain Street in Marshfield. For more information, visit www.massbayspineandsport.com or call (781) 319-0024.