Ditch the old wives’ tale that a sprain will heal on its own. Having physical therapy should be at the top of your list if you’ve recently sprained your foot or suffered another type of foot injury. Research has shown that getting a physical therapist can speed up your healing process and help you avoid further injury down the line.
And no, you don’t have to be a professional athlete to benefit from physical therapy. Whether your goal is to walk pain-free or simply improve your mobility, we can create a treatment plan that’s tailored specifically for you. So if you’re ready to get on the road to recovery, book now and we’ll have you back on your feet in no time. But if you are still in doubt about whether you see a PT or not, take time to read this.
How to know if you have one?
If you have ever sprained your foot, you know how painful the experience is. It is because a sprain is defined as a ligament injury that is caused by a sudden overstretching or tearing. A foot sprain occurs when the ligaments that support the foot are stretched or torn. This can happen due to an awkward fall, sudden movement, or direct impact. The most common symptom of a foot sprain is pain, swelling, and bruising. In severe cases, the foot may also feel weak or unstable.
Sprains and strains are common injuries, especially for athletes. But even if you’re not an athlete, you can still sprain your foot by simply walking or running on uneven ground. Foot sprains are unfortunately all too common, but the good news is that they’re usually not serious. However, if the pain is severe or you suspect that you may have fractured a bone, it’s always best to see a doctor just to be safe.
If you need some help to recover from a sprained foot faster, consider physical therapy because it can help you with exercises that can strengthen the muscles around your foot and ankle.
Treatment At-Home
For milder injuries, foot sprain can be treated at home. Here are some simple treatments you could do to ease the discomfort and enhance your recovery.
Rest- This is probably the most important thing you can do for a sprain. Put your foot up and avoid walking or standing for long periods. This will help give your body a chance to heal.
Ice: Ice can help reduce swelling and pain. Apply an ice pack for 20 minutes at a time several times a day to the affected area.
Compression: A compression bandage can also help reduce swelling. Wrap your foot tightly, but not so tight that it cuts off circulation.
Elevation: Keeping your foot elevated above heart level will also help reduce swelling. Prop it up on a pillow or cushioned surface when you’re sitting or lying down.
When to see a Physical Therapist?
If you’ve recently suffered a sprain, you might be wondering when it’s time to consult a professional. The answer, of course, depends on the severity of your injury. If you’re able to put weight on your foot and walk relatively normally, you can probably wait a few days before seeking help. However, if the pain is severe or you’re unable to bear weight on your foot, it’s best to see a physical therapist right away.
A physical therapist can help you heal your sprained foot properly. Severe sprains may require a splint or cast. But, most people with a sprain will be able to heal with the help of a physical therapist. A physical therapist can help you with the range of motion and improve your flexibility. He will also teach you how to properly walk and stand to avoid putting pressure on your injured foot. In addition, a physical therapist can create an at-home exercise program for you to follow. This will help speed up the healing process and reduce the risk of re-injury.
So if you have a foot sprain, don’t hesitate to visit Pelvis NYC and book an appointment now. We will help you assess the damage and create a treatment plan to help you get back on your feet in no time.
Time to Recover with Physical Therapy
Depending on the severity of the injury, it can take weeks or even months to recover. However, with the help of physical therapy, most people can regain their full range of motion and strength. The exact timeline for recovery depends on many factors, including the type of sprain, the location of the injury, and the person’s age and fitness level. However, in general, it takes around four to six weeks to recover from a minor sprain, while more severe injuries may take three to four months.
Have you ever woken up with left shoulder pain that makes it hard to lift your arm or even sleep comfortably? You’re not alone. Shoulder discomfort is one of the most common musculoskeletal complaints. But when it specifically occurs in the left shoulder, it can be confusing—sometimes it’s just a muscle strain, while other times it could signal something much more serious, like a heart attack. In some cases, pain in the left shoulder is called referred pain, where the discomfort is actually coming from another part of the body, such as the heart. Left shoulder pain can be a sign of a heart problem, and recognizing referred pain is important for accurate diagnosis and timely treatment.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about left shoulder pain—its causes, symptoms, treatment options, and when to seek immediate medical attention.
Left Shoulder Pain: Why It Matters
The left shoulder is a complex ball-and-socket joint made up of bones, muscles, tendons, and ligaments. Because of its wide range of motion, it’s more vulnerable to injuries and wear-and-tear conditions than many other joints in the body.
Pain in the left shoulder can range from dull stiffness to sharp, shooting sensations, including sharp pain or sudden pain that may signal more serious underlying issues such as nerve compression or even heart problems. Sometimes the discomfort is limited to the shoulder itself, while in other cases it radiates down the arm or up into the neck. Some people may also experience shoulder blade pain, which can be related to problems with the muscles or tendons around the shoulder, such as tendonitis or muscle tears. Understanding the type of pain you’re feeling can give important clues about the underlying issue.
Anatomy of the Shoulder Joint
The shoulder joint, known medically as the glenohumeral joint, is one of the most complex and mobile joints in the human body. It’s a classic ball-and-socket joint, where the rounded head of the upper arm bone (humerus) fits into a shallow socket in the shoulder blade (scapula). This unique structure allows for an impressive range of motion, letting you lift, rotate, and move your arm in nearly every direction.
Surrounding the shoulder joint is the rotator cuff—a group of four muscles and their tendons that work together to stabilize the joint and keep the arm bone securely in the socket. These muscles and tendons are essential for everyday movements, from reaching overhead to throwing a ball. However, because the shoulder is so mobile, it’s also more vulnerable to injuries and conditions that can cause shoulder pain, such as rotator cuff tears, frozen shoulder, and shoulder arthritis.
Understanding the anatomy of the shoulder is key to recognizing why certain injuries happen and how they can affect your range of motion. Whether you’re dealing with mild discomfort or more serious shoulder pain causes, knowing how the bones, muscles, and tendons work together can help you and your healthcare provider find the best way to treat shoulder pain and restore function.
Causes of Shoulder Pain
There are multiple reasons for shoulder pain, and pinpointing the cause is essential for proper treatment. A variety of conditions can cause pain in the left shoulder, including injuries, inflammation, and systemic diseases. Some of the most common include:
Rotator cuff injuries (tendonitis, tears): The cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that stabilize the shoulder. Rotator cuff pain and rotator cuff tendinitis are common causes, often resulting from overuse or trauma.
Shoulder arthritis (wear and tear of cartilage): Arthritis can cause joint pain and stiffness in the shoulder, often accompanied by clicking or cracking.
Bone spurs that pinch tendons: These can cause pain by irritating or compressing soft tissue structures.
Bursitis (inflammation of fluid-filled sacs): Bursitis is the inflammation of the bursa, a fluid-filled sac that cushions the joint. Inflammation of the bursa can cause pain, swelling, and restricted movement.
Frozen shoulder or adhesive capsulitis: This condition involves inflammation and thickening of the connective tissue and soft tissue surrounding the joint, causing pain and stiffness.
Shoulder dislocation or fracture of the arm bone: These types of shoulder injury can cause severe pain and loss of function.
Poor posture or repetitive strain: Carrying heavy objects or repetitive overhead activities can lead to shoulder injury and exacerbate shoulder problems.
Nerve impingement: A pinched nerve can cause sharp pain, numbness, tingling, and muscle weakness in the shoulder and arm.
Thyroid disease: Thyroid disease is a risk factor for developing frozen shoulder and other shoulder problems.
Degenerative conditions: Joint pain can result from osteoarthritis or other degenerative diseases affecting the shoulder joint.
Each of these conditions requires different care, which is why proper diagnosis is important, because different shoulder problems and injuries require different treatments.
Frozen Shoulder and Adhesive Capsulitis
A frozen shoulder, medically known as adhesive capsulitis, is a condition where the shoulder joint becomes stiff and painful. Inflammation and thickening of the connective tissue and soft tissue surrounding the shoulder joint are responsible for causing pain and restricted movement. It often develops slowly and progresses through three stages:
Freezing Stage – Gradual onset of pain with increasing stiffness.
Frozen Stage – Stiffness limits mobility, but pain may decrease slightly.
Thawing Stage – Slow improvement in range of motion.
This condition can take months—or even years—to fully resolve. Treatment usually includes stretching, physical therapy, and sometimes corticosteroid injections.
Mild Shoulder Pain: When It’s Not Serious
Sometimes, mild shoulder pain happens from sleeping awkwardly, carrying heavy bags, or carrying heavy objects, or spending too much time hunched over a laptop. In these cases, home remedies like ice packs, rest, and over-the-counter pain relievers may provide relief.
However, if mild discomfort lingers for more than a week or interferes with daily tasks, it’s best to consult a doctor to rule out underlying conditions.
Left Shoulder Pain and Heart Attack Warning Signs
One of the most concerning links to left shoulder pain is a heart attack. When blood flow to the heart is blocked, pain often radiates to the left shoulder, arm, or jaw. Sudden shoulder pain or sudden pain in the left shoulder should never be ignored, as it may indicate a serious medical emergency.
Seek immediate medical attention if your left shoulder pain is accompanied by:
Chest tightness or pressure
Shortness of breath
Sweating or nausea
Dizziness or lightheadedness
It’s always better to be cautious—don’t ignore these warning signs. If you experience sudden shoulder pain or any of these symptoms, seek treatment immediately.
Imaging Tests for Shoulder Pain
When the cause of shoulder pain isn’t clear, doctors may recommend imaging tests, such as:
X-rays – To check bone health, arthritis, or fractures.
MRI scans – To detect rotator cuff tears or soft tissue injuries. MRI is particularly useful for visualizing soft tissue structures such as tendons, ligaments, and the labrum.
Ultrasound – Useful for real-time images of tendons and muscles.
These tests help create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your condition.
Nonsurgical Treatment Options
Fortunately, most cases of shoulder pain can be treated with nonsurgical treatment methods:
Rest and activity modification to allow healing.
Physical therapy to improve mobility and strengthen muscles.
Anti-inflammatory medications, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), are used to reduce pain and swelling.
Corticosteroid injections for stubborn inflammation.
Surgery is usually reserved for severe injuries like complete rotator cuff tears or recurrent dislocations.
Surgical Intervention for Shoulder Pain
While many cases of shoulder pain can be managed with physical therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes, sometimes these conservative treatments aren’t enough. If you’re still experiencing significant pain, limited movement, or if your symptoms are getting worse, surgical intervention may be necessary to treat shoulder pain and restore your quality of life.
Common surgical options include rotator cuff repair, where damaged rotator cuff tendons and muscles are repaired or replaced; shoulder replacement surgery, which involves replacing the damaged ball and socket joint with an artificial implant; and arthroscopy, a minimally invasive procedure that uses a small camera and instruments to repair or remove damaged tissue inside the shoulder. These procedures can address issues like rotator cuff tears, severe arthritis, or persistent problems that haven’t responded to other treatments.
It’s crucial to seek emergency medical help if you experience sudden left shoulder pain, severe pain, or pain that rapidly worsens—especially if it’s accompanied by symptoms of a heart attack, such as chest pressure or shortness of breath. A physical therapist or orthopedic specialist can help determine if surgery is the right option for you and guide you through recovery, often combining surgical care with targeted physical therapy to help you regain strength and mobility in your shoulder.
If you’re struggling with ongoing or intense shoulder pain, don’t hesitate to seek medical attention. Early intervention can make a significant difference in your recovery and help you get back to your normal activities.
When to Seek Medical Attention
You should seek medical attention if your shoulder pain:
Persists for more than two weeks despite home care.
Interferes with daily activities, such as dressing, lifting, or driving.
Is sudden, severe, or associated with an injury.
Radiates down the left arm with chest pain (possible heart attack).
Early treatment can prevent chronic problems and speed up recovery. If your symptoms persist or worsen, seek treatment promptly to avoid further complications.
Feeling Pain in the Left Shoulder? Don’t Ignore It
Left shoulder pain can be frustrating, but it’s also your body’s way of telling you something is wrong. Whether it’s a mild shoulder pain from overuse, adhesive capsulitis, or even a heart attack, recognizing the symptoms early can make all the difference.
If you’ve been struggling with persistent shoulder pain, don’t wait. Consult a healthcare professional, explore nonsurgical treatment options such as physical therapy, and receive the right care before the condition worsens.
Book an Appointment with Pelvis NYC
At Pelvis NYC, we specialize in treating shoulder conditions through advanced nonsurgical treatments, physical therapy, and personalized care plans. Our team is here to help you regain mobility, reduce pain, and prevent further injuries.
Almost everyone experiences back pain at some point in life. Whether it’s from sitting too long at a desk, lifting heavy objects, poor posture, or even stress, discomfort in the lower back can interfere with sleep, work, and everyday activities—these are all ways pain affects your daily life and ability to perform routine tasks.
The good news? If you’ve been wondering how to heal lower back pain, there are proven strategies that can bring both immediate relief and long-term recovery. Let’s explore the causes, treatments, and prevention tips that really work.
How to Heal Lower Back Pain Naturally
When people search for how to heal lower back pain, they’re often hoping to find effective, drug-free solutions. While every case is unique, the foundation for natural healing usually includes:
Resting smartly – short rest periods can help, but avoid staying in bed too long.
Stretching and strengthening exercises – to restore mobility and prevent stiffness.
Improving posture and body mechanics – to reduce unnecessary strain.
Physical therapy – for guided, targeted recovery.
Research suggests that these methods are supported by scientific studies for improving lower back pain.
Most cases of lower back pain improve within a few weeks, especially when these approaches are used consistently.
Pain Relief That Works
When back pain flares up, the first goal is usually to ease pain quickly. Here are some go-to strategies:
Ice or heat therapy to reduce inflammation or ease stiff muscles. For cold therapy, use an ice pack to help relieve pain and swelling.
Gentle massage to relax tight areas.
Over-the-counter pain relievers such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or naproxen, or acetaminophen.
Simple stretching routines to improve flexibility and circulation.
These can calm the discomfort, but remember—relief is temporary unless the root cause is treated.
Physical Therapy for Back Pain
If you’re serious about learning how to heal lower back pain, physical therapy should be high on your list. Physical therapists are the healthcare professionals who design and supervise these personalized plans to address back pain effectively. A therapist will design a personalized plan that may include:
Hands-on treatments to reduce tension.
Core and spine-strengthening exercises.
Posture correction techniques.
Education on how to move safely in daily life.
The goal isn’t just to relieve today’s pain—it’s to prevent tomorrow’s.
Benefits of Physical Therapy for Lower Back Pain
Physical therapy offers a powerful, evidence-based approach to relieve pain and restore function for those struggling with lower back pain. Working with a physical therapist means you’ll get a personalized plan tailored to your unique needs and the underlying cause of your pain. Through targeted exercises and stretches, physical therapy helps strengthen both your back and abdominal muscles, which are essential for supporting your spine and improving posture.
Manual therapy techniques and guided movements also boost blood flow to the painful area, speeding up healing and reducing discomfort. As you progress, you’ll learn how to move safely and avoid poor body mechanics that can trigger future episodes of back pain. The result? Not only do you experience significant pain relief, but you also gain the tools to return to your normal activities with confidence and maintain better spinal health for the long run.
Starting physical therapy for lower back pain is a proactive step toward lasting relief. At your first appointment, your physical therapist will take time to understand your medical history, daily habits, and the specific nature of your pain. This thorough evaluation may include a physical exam and, in some cases, diagnostic tests like blood tests or imaging to pinpoint the underlying cause.
Once your needs are clear, your therapist will design a customized treatment plan. This often includes exercises to strengthen your back and abdominal muscles, stretches to improve flexibility, and hands-on techniques to relieve pain and ease muscle spasms. Throughout your sessions, you’ll work closely with your physical therapist, setting goals and tracking progress together. With expert guidance, you’ll find relief from lower back pain and build a foundation for a healthier, more active life.
Back Pain Relief Through Exercise
Movement is medicine. Regular exercise is one of the most effective ways to achieve long-lasting back pain relief. Here are a few safe, highly recommended stretches:
Knee-to-chest stretch – Lie on your back with your knees bent. Bring one knee toward your chest while keeping the other leg extended or bent. Hold the stretch, then slowly lower your leg back to the starting position and repeat with the other leg. This releases tension in the lower back.
Piriformis stretch – eases pressure on the sciatic nerve.
Kneeling lunge stretch – loosens tight hip flexors.
Neck and shoulder stretches – improve posture and reduce upper-body strain.
⚠️ Avoid quick, jerky movements or deep neck rolls, which can make things worse.
Understanding Low Back Pain
Low back pain can develop suddenly or gradually. Some common causes include:
Muscle strains and sprains from lifting or twisting.
Herniated discs can cause nerve compression affecting the spinal cord.
Sciatica, a sharp, radiating pain down the legs.
Poor posture or sitting for long hours.
Issues with spinal bones or an underlying medical condition can also contribute to low back pain.
The pain levels can range from mild to severe, sometimes making it hard to walk, sleep, or even sit comfortably.
Pain Relievers: When to Use Them
Pain relievers can be very helpful during flare-ups, especially for moderate pain. Anti-inflammatory medications reduce swelling, making it easier to stay active. But remember: they don’t “fix” the problem. Using medication as a crutch without addressing posture, strength, or flexibility often leads to recurring pain.
Why Back Pain Keeps Coming Back
If you’ve treated back pain before only for it to return, you’re not alone. Chronic back pain is often caused by:
Weak core and back muscles.
Repetitive strain from daily activities.
Uncorrected poor posture.
If your pain lasts more than several weeks or pain persists despite treatment, it may be considered chronic and require further evaluation.
That’s why learning how to heal lower back pain requires both short-term treatment and long-term prevention.
Relieve Lower Back Pain at Home
Want to start feeling better right away? Here are some simple ways to relieve low back pain naturally:
Stay lightly active—avoid prolonged bed rest.
Stretch daily, especially after sitting for long periods.
Practice proper lifting techniques.
Use ergonomic chairs or standing desks.
Sleep on a mattress that supports spinal alignment, and consider adjusting your sleeping posture to reduce discomfort.
Small, consistent changes can make a big difference.
Alternative Therapies for Lower Back Pain
While physical therapy is a cornerstone of back pain relief, many people find additional benefit from alternative therapies. Acupuncture, for example, uses fine needles to stimulate specific points on the body, which can help relieve pain and promote healing. Massage therapy is another popular option, as it relaxes tight muscles and increases blood flow to the lower back, easing discomfort and supporting recovery.
Chiropractic care focuses on spinal health through gentle adjustments and can help relieve lower back pain caused by misalignment or nerve pressure. Mind-body practices like yoga and Pilates are also excellent for improving posture, strengthening core muscles, and reducing stress—all of which contribute to back pain relief. Before starting any new therapy, it’s wise to consult with a healthcare professional to ensure it’s safe and appropriate for your specific needs.
Poor Posture and Back Pain
A few things damage the spine, likepoor posture. Slouching at your desk, hunching over your phone, or standing with your weight unevenly distributed places extra strain on your muscles and joints. Over time, this leads to both discomfort and structural problems.
Carrying extra weight can increase the strain on your spine and worsen the effects of poor posture.
The fix? Train yourself to sit tall, engage your core, and keep your shoulders relaxed but not rounded.
Risk Factors for Lower Back Pain
Certain habits and conditions increase your risk of back problems, such as:
Sedentary lifestyle.
Jobs involving heavy lifting or long sitting hours.
Excess body weight.
High stress levels.
Previous injuries or spinal conditions.
These risk factors can trigger pain signals in the lower back, leading to discomfort and dysfunction.
Recognizing these risk factors helps you stay one step ahead.
Warning Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore
Most back pain is manageable at home, but there are red flags you shouldn’t overlook:
Pain that lasts more than a few weeks.
Numbness, tingling, or weakness in your legs.
Pain radiating down one or both legs (sciatica).
Sudden, severe pain after an accident.
Difficulty walking, standing, or sleeping.
If these warning signs appear, see a healthcare professional promptly.
Maintaining a Healthy Back for the Long Term
Keeping your back healthy is an ongoing commitment that pays off in every aspect of daily life. To reduce your risk of chronic low back pain, focus on maintaining a healthy weight and staying active with regular exercise like walking, swimming, or gentle stretching. Practicing good body mechanics—such as lifting with your legs, not your back, and avoiding heavy twisting—can help protect your spine from injury.
Lifestyle choices matter, too. Getting enough restful sleep, managing stress, and steering clear of smoking all support spinal health and lower your chances of developing persistent back pain. Regular check-ups with your healthcare provider can catch potential issues early, helping you avoid chronic low back pain and stay on track for a pain-free, active future. By making these habits part of your routine, you’ll give your back the best chance to stay strong and resilient for years to come.
Final Thoughts on How to Heal Lower Back Pain
Learning how to heal lower back pain isn’t just about short-term comfort—it’s about fixing the root cause, building strength, and preventing recurrence. With the right mix of physical therapy, exercise, posture correction, and home strategies, you can take control of your recovery.
AtPelvis NYC, our specialists create personalized programs to help you heal safely and effectively.
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