CAPE Physical Therapy Hialeah, Miami Lakes, FL 33015

Electrical Stimulation

admin — Sun, 29 Nov 2020 08:00:00 +0000

Electrical Stimulation

We utilize the benefits of electrical stimulation at CAPE Physical Therapy Hialeah, Florida.

What is electrical stimulation?

While it may sound a bit intimidating, electrical stimulation really isn’t at all! When used correctly and provided under the guidance of a licensed and skilled physical therapist, electrical stimulation is a safe and efficacious modality that can be used to treat a variety of conditions.

While individual units and modes of delivery can vary, the standard electrical stimulation device utilizes self-adhesive electrodes placed around the target treatment area on the body. These electrodes are connected via wire leads to the unit, through which electricity can pass and ultimately interact with sensory and/or motor nerves (depending on the type of current utilized).

What is electrical stimulation used for in physical therapy?

There are several electrical stimulation modes that use different types of currents intended to stimulate different nerves in a variety of specific ways. These include modes such as transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS), interferential, pre-modulated, Russian, and symmetrical or asymmetrical bi-phasic. Don’t let the words confuse you, though. Your physical therapist will decide the right one to meet your unique needs.

Our clinic frequently utilizes electrical stimulation in order to provide a variety of beneficial healing effects, including:

Reduce, eliminate, and/or control pain (both acute and chronic)
Increase local circulation
Decrease swelling
Improve range of motion
Reduce muscle spasm
Provide biofeedback (aka improve body awareness)
Improve motor coordination
Provide neuromuscular re-education
Prevent or reverse muscle atrophy (especially after prolonged immobilization, such as a limb being casted as a fracture heals)

Pain control and reduction is probably the most frequent indication of electrical stimulation usage. Specifically, this modality can trigger an innate and completely natural analgesic effect by stimulating specific sensory nerve fibers (including A-beta, A-delta, and C fibers) which both disrupt or decrease the sensation of pain and also elicit the release of certain neurotransmitters which can prolong the pain-relieving effects.

While it’s not for everyone (including people with deep vein thrombosis, people who are pregnant, people with pacemakers, and people with impaired cognition) or safe to use on every body area (including on the anterior neck, eyes, or over areas with damaged skin or decreased sensation), electrical stimulation can be used for a wide variety of conditions as indicated, including acute sports-related or auto accident-related injuries, repetitive stress injuries, muscle strains, ligament sprains, and even neurological conditions including stroke.

Does electrical muscle stimulation hurt?

No!

The intensity of the electrical muscle stimulation or sensory nerve stimulation is easily modifiable and ultimately will only be as much as you, the patient, can tolerate. Typically, electrical stimulation will feel tingly or prickly (some patients describe it as a comforting “pins and needles” sensation). Sometimes, as in the case when used for muscle strengthening, the intensity level can be high and somewhat uncomfortable, but it should never cause pain.

What should I expect during an electrical stimulation session?

Our patients’ comfort, safety, and dignity are the number one priority. For this reason, we’ll ask you to come in comfortable loose-fitting clothes and sturdy shoes when you come to see us for an appointment.

At your initial consultation, expect to be taken through a thorough patient history questionnaire (we’ll ask questions about your current, past, and family medical history) and physical examination. Your physical therapist will be able to diagnose your condition and then devise an appropriate treatment plan to meet your unique needs.

If your physical therapist decides that electrical stimulation is an appropriate part of your plan of care, he or she will first educate you about the specific modality. You’ll be asked to sit or lie in a comfortable position, your skin in the target treatment area will be cleaned and prepped, and your PT will guide you step-by-step through the entire treatment.

For more information, Contact our team at CAPE Physical Therapy Hialeah to setup your appointment today. Our physical therapists are certified, experienced and committed to helping you feel better. They’ve helped many others recover and Live Pain Free.

Auto Accident Injury Recovery

admin — Sat, 28 Nov 2020 08:00:17 +0000

Auto Accident Injury Recovery

Car accidents do happen. Depending on the severity of the accident people do not usually feel pain for at least 48-72hrs as their bodies are still in shock. Most common areas resulting in injuries from a car accident are spine, shoulders, elbows, wrist and hand, hips, knees, ankles and feet.

We will work with the highest integrity and dedication to return you back to function as soon as possible by utilizing the latest scientific evidence and technology. We offer one on one treatment rooms for your privacy and comfort.

For more information, Contact our team at CAPE Physical Therapy Miami to setup your appointment today. Our physical therapists are certified, experienced and committed to helping you feel better. They’ve helped many others recover and Live Pain Free.

Frequently Asked Questions

admin — Fri, 27 Nov 2020 22:10:03 +0000

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Physical Therapy?

Physical therapy is a medical, hands-on approach to relieving pain and restoring function. Physical therapists are medical experts in musculoskeletal and neurological conditions and work closely with physicians. Our physical therapists evaluate your movement patterns, identify the cause of your pain, and work to eliminate it.

While every patient’s condition and pain is unique, your physical therapist will use a variety of gentle hands-on techniques, exercises, and equipment to relieve pain quickly and restore your function to optimum levels. The overall goal is to restore pain-free mobility and function and to prevent the injury or pain from recurring.

How do I know if physical therapy will help me?

Working with you and your doctor, we can discuss your options and help determine if physical therapy will be the right choice for you. Contact us today to discuss your current condition and even set up a free consultation if you choose.

Can I go to any physical therapy I choose?

As a patient you have the right to receive physical therapy at any place you choose. At CAPE Physical Therapy, you will receive the highest quality care while achieving the results you need. We pride ourselves on providing a positive, encouraging environment with well-trained, friendly staff. We are confident in our ability to help you reach your goals and live a pain-free life.

How do I schedule an appointment?

Our scheduling is easy and we offer a convenient location and appointment times for you. We have morning and evening appointments available to meet the demands of your busy schedule. Call us today or simply fill out the schedule appointment form on this page.

What should I bring to my first appointment?

Please have your prescription and insurance card available when you call. This will allow us to verify your insurance benefits and provide you with an estimate of coverage.

To bring on your first visit:

A prescription (if needed) for physical therapy from your referring physician, ARNP, or PA.
Insurance information (we will make a copy of your card).
Print out the patient forms, fill them out, and bring them with you.
In case of an automobile accident or worker’s compensation claim, also bring any case manager or insurance adjuster contact names, phone numbers, and claim number.
Please arrive 15 minutes early to complete any remaining paperwork, so you can maximize your time in your evaluation.
Please wear comfortable clothing that allows easy access to your problem areas.

Will it hurt?

Physical therapy is not meant to hurt, but to relieve pain. However, as you restore your mobility, pain levels, at times can fluctuate. You might experience some temporary soreness from using muscles that are weakened or recovering. This is a normal response to therapy treatment. Good communication with your therapist will help minimize any discomfort. We want you on your way to quick pain relief and back to normal activities.

Does Insurance cover my treatment?

Yes, in most cases it does. Our office will be happy to assist in contacting your insurance company and determining your coverage based on your individual policy. For more information, visit our insurance plan page and please do not hesitate to contact our office. We do offer different payment options for your convenience.

What if I don’t have insurance?

For patients who do not have insurance, we offer a discounted fee, due at the time of service.

What type of payment do you accept?

We accept cash, check, debit card, and credit card. We are happy to discuss payment plan options as well. It is our policy that payment is made at the time of service. Your insurance benefits will be determined before your second visit, and you will be informed of what, if any, payment is necessary on that date.

What do I wear?

Dress comfortably with clothes that allow easy access for the therapist to examine your problem areas. For treatments, loose fitting clothes that are comfortable for gentle exercises and supportive sneakers are often good choices to wear.

How long will my therapy sessions last?

Typically, the first session lasts for 1 hour 15 minutes. Each session after that may be 45-60 minutes. The amount of time will be based on your specific needs, and your therapist will discuss this with you.

How many sessions will I have?

Each patient’s diagnosis is different, so together with your referring physician, your therapist will develop a plan of care that is right for you. Your plan of care and number of visits will be determined during your first visit and explained to you by your physical therapist.

What types of education/training do your therapists have?

Physical therapists have years of university level training in anatomy, physiology, kinesiology (study of joint movement), neurology, and many of the other medical sciences. Our physical therapists have graduated from accredited physical therapy programs and are state licensed. Depending on the university, the physical therapy program is either a masters or doctorate level degree. Rest assured, your therapist is well trained to evaluate and treat your condition.

Do you offer programs for me once I’m better?

Yes, once you have completed your therapy sessions, your therapist will review your continuing home program. We can make arrangements to meet you at your gym to work with you on determining what equipment may be beneficial, and what exercises would be helpful in your continued recovery.

For more information, Contact our team at CAPE Physical Therapy in Hialeah to setup your appointment or schedule your appointment today. Our physical therapists are certified, experienced and committed to helping you feel better. They’ve helped many others recover and Live Pain Free.

CAPE Specialties

admin — Fri, 27 Nov 2020 22:07:51 +0000

SPECIALTIES

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