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Cervicogenic Headache

 in Blog  tagged Headaches by

Let’s talk about Cervicogenic Headaches.

Cervicohenic headache, headache, neck pain and headache, headache Osteo, headache osteopath, migraine, migraine Osteo, migraine osteopath, osteopath Bentleigh, Osteo Bentleigh, osteopath Bentleigh East, Osteo Bentleigh, Osteo melbourne, Osteopath melbourne, Osteo bayside, osteopath bayside

You may be experiencing from a condition known as Cervicogenic Headache … If you have you been experiencing headaches lately and have had some associated neck pain.

Patients with Cervicogenic Headaches may experience:

  • One-sided pain that can mimic tension type headaches or migraines. 
  • Pain is usually one sided and begins at the neck and can spread to the eyes, forehead, and temples. 
  • Patients often do not complain of any sensitivity to light and noise which is common in migraines. 
  • Associated neck pain or a reduction in range of motion.

Cervicogenic headaches are thought to be caused by irritation of cervical structures that are innervated by spinal nerves C1, C2 and C3. Therefore, any structure in the neck that is innervated by these spinal nerves that is irritated may cause pain in the neck and then refer pain up the face and head, which will then lead to headaches.

Cervicogenic headaches are a rare form of headache but is commonly seen in people between the ages of 30 and 44 years old and affects both females and males equally.

In terms of management and treatment of Cervicogenic headaches, physical therapy is often the gold standard which includes manipulative therapy and therapeutic exercise. Patients may look to an anaesthetic or steroid injection for pain relief. Surgery can also be performed although this is often considered as a last resort. With successful treatment of the lesion or cause of irritation in the neck, pain usually resolves within three months.

It’s important to note that treatment does not entirely cure the condition. Regular visits to your health practitioner to monitor symptoms and a tailored management plan is often required to prevent future instances.

If you feel like you’re experiencing Cervicogenic headaches or something similar, the Osteopaths at Valued Health Osteopathy are happy to have a chat with you about your situation, perform a diagnostic assessment, provide treatment, and develop a tailored management plan. 

References:

    1. Al Khalili Y, Ly N, Murphy PB. Cervicogenic Headache. [Updated 2022 Oct 3]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK507862/

Make an appointment today – Book online!

(03) 9570 9061

www.valuedhealth.com.au

You do not need a referral to see one of our friendly Osteopaths at Valued Health Osteopathy. We have a very good relationship with many surrounding doctors, other health practitioners and personal trainers in the local community of Bentleigh East , Bentleigh, Ormond, McKinnon, Oakleigh, Carnegie, Caulfield, Moorabbin, Murrumbeena, Brighton, Clayton and Clarinda.

Valued Health Osteopathy offers Osteopathy, Clinical Pilates, Infant & Children Osteopathy, Pelvic Health Osteopathy, Exercise Rehabilitation and Strength & Conditioning. Valued Health Osteopathy is open 6 days a week with early morning and evening appointments.

Osteopath in Bentleigh East, Osteopath in Bentleigh, Osteopath near Ormond, Osteopath near McKinnon, Osteopath near Oakleigh, Osteopath near Cheltenham, Osteopath near Brighton, Osteopath near Caulfield, Osteopath near Carnegie, Osteopath near Clarinda, Osteopath near Moorabbin.

Valued Health Osteopathy is located at 3/658 Centre Road, Bentleigh East, Melbourne, Victoria, 3165.

Valued Health Osteopathy | Osteopathy Australia

Osteopath Bentleigh East, Osteopath Bentleigh, Osteopath Ormond, Osteopath McKinnon, Osteopath Moorabbin, Osteopath Murrumbeena, Osteopath Oakleigh, Osteopath Carnegie, Osteopath Caulfield, Osteopath Clayton, Osteopath Brighton and Osteopath Cheltenham, Osteopath Dingley, Osteopath Beaumaris, Osteopath Melbourne.

Trochanteric Bursitis

 in Blog  tagged Hip pain / Lateral Hip pain / Trochanteric bursitis by

Trochanteric Bursitis | A common cause of lateral hip pain.

Trochanteric Bursitis, Lateral Hip pain, Hip pain, Hip pain Osteopath, Hip pain and Osteopathy, Can Osteopaths help with hip pain, Osteopath Bentleigh, Osteopath Bentleigh East, Osteopath Melbourne, Osteopath Bayside, Osteopath Dr Alex Phan, Osteo Melbourne, Osteo Bayside, Osteo Bentleigh, Osteo Bentleigh East, Osteopath McKinnon, Osteopath Ormond, Osteopath Oakleigh, Osteopath Moorabbin

What is Trochanteric Bursitis?

Trochanteric bursitis is inflammation of the bursa that sits on the side of your greater trochanter, the side of your hip. A bursa is a sac of fluid that sits between muscles/tendons and bones to provide cushion as well smooth frictionless movement.

Who does it affect and what causes it?

More common in women, especially middle-aged women 

Excessive or repetitive movements – such as athletics, running, cycling or jumping 

Cycling 

Direct trauma to the bursa – commonly seen in elderly patients who are at risk of falls 

Sedentary or bed bound patients due to constant pressure over the greater trochanter

How does Trochanteric Bursitis occur? 

This usually occurs due to either repetitive microtrauma that can be from running or exercise involving the hip and tendinopathy of the surrounding musculature. It can also be caused by direct trauma and compression of the bursa or idiopathically, without any reason. 

What are the symptoms?

One sided lateral hip pain 

Gradual onset of pain 

Local pain over the greater trochanter 

Pain that improves with anti-inflammatories 

Pain that is worse with prolonged activity that involves stabilisation of the pelvis e.g standing on one leg 

Pain that is brought on with adduction of the femur – swinging the leg across the midline of the body

How can Trochanteric Bursitis be treated?

In most cases trochanteric bursitis can be managed with conservative care through adequate rest and pharmacotherapy. However, there are instances where more direct intervention is required through physical therapy and stronger pharmacotherapy. In rare cases, surgery may be considered if patients do not respond well to conservative measures.

Here are some common exercises that can be prescribed to manage your lateral hip pain. This is general advice only and not to be substituted for personalised medical advice.  

  1. Sit to stand 
  • Using a chair or bench
  • Place your feet shoulder width apart with your hands out in front for balance 
  • Sit back down into a squat position and barely touch the chair or bench with your bottom and then stand back up 
  • Perform 3 sets of 15, 3x a week 
  1. Glute bridges 
  • Lie flat on the ground with your hips and knees bent at 90 degrees 
  • Raise your hips to the sky by squeezing your bottom and hamstrings to elevate your bottom from the ground. Most of body weight should be on your upper back 
  • Perform 3 sets of 10, 3x a week 
  1. Step ups 
  • Using a small stool or a stair case 
  • Standing with both feet on an elevated platform such a small stool or stairs. 
  • Slowly bring one leg back and drop it down to the bottom level whilst keeping tension over the glutes of the elevated leg. 
  • Whilst holding this tension, raise the leg on the bottom level back to the starting position. 
  • Perform 3 sets of 10 on each leg, 3x a week. 

If you’re experiencing pain or had a recent flare up of an old injury, we recommend you consult with one of our Osteopaths to find out the “do’s and don’ts” depending on the severity of your injury as there is no ‘one size fits all’ with treatment plans.  

References:

    1. Seidman AJ, Taqi M, Varacallo M. Trochanteric Bursitis. [Updated 2022 Nov 20]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK538503/

Make an appointment today – Book online!

(03) 9570 9061

www.valuedhealth.com.au

You do not need a referral to see one of our friendly Osteopaths at Valued Health Osteopathy. We have a very good relationship with many surrounding doctors, other health practitioners and personal trainers in the local community of Bentleigh East , Bentleigh, Ormond, McKinnon, Oakleigh, Carnegie, Caulfield, Moorabbin, Murrumbeena, Brighton, Clayton and Clarinda.

Valued Health Osteopathy offers Osteopathy, Clinical Pilates, Infant & Children Osteopathy, Pelvic Health Osteopathy, Exercise Rehabilitation and Strength & Conditioning. Valued Health Osteopathy is open 6 days a week with early morning and evening appointments.

Osteopath in Bentleigh East, Osteopath in Bentleigh, Osteopath near Ormond, Osteopath near McKinnon, Osteopath near Oakleigh, Osteopath near Cheltenham, Osteopath near Brighton, Osteopath near Caulfield, Osteopath near Carnegie, Osteopath near Clarinda, Osteopath near Moorabbin.

Valued Health Osteopathy is located at 3/658 Centre Road, Bentleigh East, Melbourne, Victoria, 3165.

Valued Health Osteopathy | Osteopathy Australia

Osteopath Bentleigh East, Osteopath Bentleigh, Osteopath Ormond, Osteopath McKinnon, Osteopath Moorabbin, Osteopath Murrumbeena, Osteopath Oakleigh, Osteopath Carnegie, Osteopath Caulfield, Osteopath Clayton, Osteopath Brighton and Osteopath Cheltenham, Osteopath Dingley, Osteopath Beaumaris, Osteopath Melbourne.

Knee Pain – Osteoarthritis (OA)

 in Uncategorized  tagged Knee pain / OA / Osteoarthritis by

Osteoarthritis, knee pain, OA, Osteopath, Osteopath Bentleigh East, Osteo Bentleigh

Knee Pain – Osteoarthritis (OA)

Common Causes of Knee Pain: Part 1 –Osteoarthritis (OA)

What is Osteoarthritis?

OA is a common condition that affects some joints of the body (3) and is something that we see frequently at Valued Health Osteopathy. Knee pain can have many causes, however one of the most common conditions behind knee pain, particularly in adults; is Osteoarthritis (3).

Osteoarthritis causes structural changes within a joint, which results in pain and a loss of function. OA is the most common type of arthritis affecting more than 250 million adults (1). OA is a progressive joint disease that is affected by multiple factors including biomechanical, genetic, inflammatory, and hormonal factors (1). It is important to note that it is not just an ‘older persons’ disease. (3)

Osteoarthritis can be associated with pain however, there is a high variability in the level of pain. (3) Importantly, pain does not typically correlate with the degree of change in joints. (3)

Symptoms of Osteoarthritis 

Stiffness

Pain associated with movement

Joint swelling

Muscle weakness

Joint instability

Reduced range of movement and

Sounds within the joints. (3)

Risk factors for Osteoarthritis

Research suggests that there are multiple risk factors for OA and they can include:

Obesity

Previous significant injury to the joint

Increasing age

Repetitive movements associated with an occupation

Genetics and

Gender. (3)

So how can we help patients that do have symptomatic knee OA?
  1. Education: Educating patients on what Osteoarthritis (OA) actually is, how it can be managed and that people with knee OA can still thrive in life is the first line of action (2).
  2. Exercise is an important and effective part of any OA management plan and can be useful in trying to reduce pain and improve mobility. (3) Exercise including strength training, stretching, aerobic and balance programs should typically be included in an exercise program for those with OA. (3)
  3. Diet: Generally a healthy and balanced diet is recommended for those with OA. Including healthy eating habits within your lifestyle can be beneficial for pain and functional outcomes associated with OA. For detailed assistance or support surrounding dietary changes, your GP or dietician would be a great place to start. (2)

They’re a lot of other areas involved in the management of knee osteoarthritis. For more information and help on how you can improve your knee pain, make an appointment with one of our Osteopaths at Valued Health Osteopathy.

References:

    1. 2.3. Osteoarthritis Cartilage. 2013 Sep;21(9):1145-53. doi: 10.1016/j.joca.2013.03.018. Luks, Dr H. “10 Recommendations To Thrive With Osteoarthritis of the Knee,” Physio Network. Available at: https://www.physio-network.com/blog/10- recommendations-to-thrive-with-osteoarthritis-of-the-knee/ (Accessed: 2022).
    2. Bone Joint Surg Am. 2018 Jan 17;100(2):131-137. doi: 10.2106/JBJS.16.01071.
    3. Arthritis. Osteoarthritis, Reviewed on: 21-08-2019, Better Health Channel, https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/osteoarthritis

Make an appointment today – Book online!

(03) 9570 9061

www.valuedhealth.com.au

You do not need a referral to see one of our friendly Osteopaths at Valued Health Osteopathy. We have a very good relationship with many surrounding doctors, other health practitioners and personal trainers in the local community of Bentleigh East , Bentleigh, Ormond, McKinnon, Oakleigh, Carnegie, Caulfield, Moorabbin, Murrumbeena, Brighton, Clayton and Clarinda.

Valued Health Osteopathy offers Osteopathy, Clinical Pilates, Infant & Children Osteopathy, Pelvic Health Osteopathy, Exercise Rehabilitation and Strength & Conditioning. Valued Health Osteopathy is open 6 days a week with early morning and evening appointments.

Osteopath in Bentleigh East, Osteopath in Bentleigh, Osteopath near Ormond, Osteopath near McKinnon, Osteopath near Oakleigh, Osteopath near Cheltenham, Osteopath near Brighton, Osteopath near Caulfield, Osteopath near Carnegie, Osteopath near Clarinda, Osteopath near Moorabbin.

Valued Health Osteopathy is located at 3/658 Centre Road, Bentleigh East, Melbourne, Victoria, 3165.

Valued Health Osteopathy | Osteopathy Australia

Osteopath Bentleigh East, Osteopath Bentleigh, Osteopath Ormond, Osteopath McKinnon, Osteopath Moorabbin, Osteopath Murrumbeena, Osteopath Oakleigh, Osteopath Carnegie, Osteopath Caulfield, Osteopath Clayton, Osteopath Brighton and Osteopath Cheltenham, Osteopath Dingley, Osteopath Beaumaris, Osteopath Melbourne.

Shin Splints – Why do my shins hurt when I run?

 in Uncategorized  tagged Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome (MTSS) / Shin Pain by

Shin Splints, Shin pain, Shin splits and osteo, shin splits and osteopathy, Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome, Shins, Shin Splints and exercise

Shin Splints

My shins hurt when I run. Is it Shin Splints? 

Valued Health Osteopathy

3/658 Centre Rd, Bentleigh East, 3165

Shin pain is a problem that many runners face in their time of running. Pain down the front of the shins is commonly known as shin splints, although this is just an umbrella term used to describe any type of pain around the shins. One of the most common forms of shin splints is a condition more formally known as Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome (MTSS).

MTSS is defined as “exercise-induced pain along the posterior medial tibial border, and recognisable pain is provoked on palpation of the posterior medial border over a length of ≥5 consecutive centimetres” (1).

MTSS is a condition which can cause pain along the front and inside portion of the shin bone and is typically associated with exercise that involves running and/or jumping although. There is still a lack of clarity as to what the actual root pathophysiological cause of MTSS is, as to whether it is a bone overloading injury or a fasciopathy type injury (1). MTSS is a common condition faced by runners with an incidence of 9.4% and prevalence of 9.1% (1).

Shin splints can be caused by many different factors. Some of the most common causes of MTSS are:

From inappropriate running load and volume, and inadequate lower limb muscular strength and endurance. When runners either increase their running volume or their running load/intensity at too great a rate, then the tissues in the lower leg are not given enough time to adapt to the increased workload, putting stress on the tissues. In runners with MTSS, it is common to find muscular strength and endurance imbalances between each leg. On the affected leg, the ankle plantar flexor muscles can be found to have 56% less endurance capacity, Tibialias Anterior can be 20% weaker, the Peroneal muscles can be 17% weaker, Soleus can be 12% weaker and Flexor Hallicus Longus can be 25% weaker than the non-affected leg. There are other factors that are also be considered when evaluating and managing MTSS in addition to load and muscle imbalances (2).

Risk Factors for MTSS

• Increased Body Mass Index (BMI)

• Increased exercise load

• Inappropriate footwear

• Muscular weakness of the foot and leg

• Female

What does MTSS feel like?

MTSS typically presents with soreness and tenderness, particularly to touch, along the front and inside aspect of the shin bone and is most noticeable after running. This can occur for several months and without appropriate treatment and management can get worse over time, which in some cases can lead to tibial stress fractures.

What does management of MTSS look like?

MTSS is condition that can take an extended period of time to fully resolve, with full resolution possibly taking several months. The chance of relapsing is increased if appropriate load management is not appropriate or optimal. Despite the lack of clarity as to whether MTSS is a bone overloading injury or a fasciopathy, load management is effective at managing both pathophysiology’s (1).

Appropriate management involves but is not limited to.

• Addressing muscle weaknesses by applying appropriate muscular strength and endurance training.

• Appropriate load management of running and other exercise.

• Exercise modification.

• Addressing running technique errors.

• Addressing inappropriate running shoes.

Suffering from Shin splints? We may be able to help. Speak to one of our Osteopaths at Valued Health Osteopathy in Bentleigh East about your treatment and rehabilitation options. Call or book online today.

Make an appointment today – Book online!

(03) 9570 9061

valuedhealth.com.au

Shin pain, Shin splints, Osteopath Bentleigh, Osteopath Bentleigh East, Shin pain and Osteopathy

You do not need a referral to see one of our friendly Osteopaths at Valued Health Osteopathy. We have a very good relationship with many surrounding doctors, other health practitioners and personal trainers in the local community of Bentleigh East , Bentleigh, Ormond, McKinnon, Oakleigh, Carnegie, Caulfield, Moorabbin, Murrumbeena, Brighton, Clayton and Clarinda.

Valued Health Osteopathy is a trusted provider of Osteopathy, Pelvic Health, Infants & Children, Clinical Pilates, Exercise Rehabilitation and Strength & Conditioning. Valued Health Osteopathy is open 6 days a week with early morning and evening appointments.

Valued Health Osteopathy is located at 3/658 Centre Road, Bentleigh East, Melbourne, Victoria, 3165.

Valued Health Osteopathy | Osteopathy Australia

Osteopath Bentleigh East, Osteopath Bentleigh, Osteopath Ormond, Osteopath McKinnon, Osteopath Moorabbin, Osteopath Murrumbeena, Osteopath Oakleigh, Osteopath Carnegie, Osteopath Caulfield, Osteopath Clayton, Osteopath Brighton and Osteopath Cheltenham, Osteopath Dingley, Osteopath Beaumaris, Osteopath Melbourne.
References:
  1. Winters, M. The diagnosis and management of medial tibial stress syndrome.Unfallchirurg 123 (Suppl 1), 15–19 (2020). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00113-019-0667-z
  2. Mattock, J., Steele, J.R. & Mickle, K.J. Lower leg muscle structure and function are altered in long-distance runners with medial tibial stress syndrome: a case control study.J Foot Ankle Res 14, 47 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1186/s13047-021-00485-5
  3. Newman P, Witchalls J, Waddington G, Adams R. Risk factors associated with medial tibial stress syndrome in runners: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Open Access J Sports Med. 2013 Nov 13;4:229-41. doi: 10.2147/OAJSM.S39331.

Growing Pains

 in Uncategorized by

Growing Pains, Osteo and infants, Osteo and children, Osteopathy and infants, Osteopathy and children

Osteopathy and Growing Pains

Why are my child’s legs aching at night?

Usually occurring later in the day or at night, and sometimes enough to wake your child, growing pains describe a pattern of pain or discomfort in the legs. 80-90% of the time it is both legs, generally felt more in the muscles (often calf or thigh muscles) rather than bones or joints, and for most children it comes and goes.

As the cause is still unclear and requires further research, it is also known as Benign Nocturnal Limb Pain (BNLP), occurring in about 10-20% of healthy primary school and preschool aged children. Although the symptoms were labelled ‘growing pains’ in the 1930s to 1940’s, there is no clear explanation or evidence that growth causes the pain. It may occur after vigorous physical activity (but this is not always the case), however with no signs of swelling, redness, tenderness or limping, and by morning your child is well without any stiffness.

How does it feel?

Each child can have a different experience, where it may be a deep cramping or aching, from mild to severe. There can be days or months in between episodes or for some, be a daily occurrence. Although the pain or discomfort generally only lasts 10-30 minutes and is gone by morning, it may be distressing for your child.

What to look for:

It is important your child is taken to see their GP if you think there may be a more serious issue, and to confirm it is growing pains. This may include ruling out other issues including an assessment for any signs of growth associated injuries.

Seek medical care if any of the following is occurring:

– only one side of their body is in pain

– your child wakes up with the pain or stiffness in the morning

– not letting you touch the painful area

– the area is hot, red or swollen and does not get better within 24 hours

– your child is limping

– severe pain, a lump in the muscle

– fever

An assessment for other conditions may occur depending on the timing and location of the pain. Ruling out certain growth associated injuries with a physical examination is also important.

What can help?

Although there is no specific treatment for growing pains, the following strategies may provide some relief:

-comfort your child

-gently massage the painful area

-use a heat pack

-stretching the muscles in the area

-a warm a bath/shower before bed

-occasionally your doctor or pharmacist may suggest anti-inflammatory medication.

Physical activities can continue, and it may be helpful to encourage a variety of different sports and activities that allow different muscles in the body to be used in different ways.

If your child has very flexible joints (hyper mobility), a strengthening program with physical therapy may help (for example with an osteopath or physiotherapist), and a podiatrist may suggest shoe inserts if your child has flat feet.

How long can it last?

Growing pains usually resolve within a couple of years or by adolescence. Although they generally get better over time and don’t directly lead to other health conditions, if the pain occurs frequently, it may be helpful to discuss the best ways to manage the issue with your healthcare provider.

Keep in mind this is not a definitive list, but general information and please seek medical care if you have any concerns about your child’s health.

Valued Health Osteopathy’s practitioners do not ever perform any manipulation (defined as ‘cracking’ or forceful joint movement) on infants or children. Simple body positioning, stretching and gentle massage may be included by the Osteopath if appropriate. Pressure used would be no more than what is required whilst changing, dressing or holding an infant with the aim of keeping them calm and comfortable throughout. Our Osteopaths also recommend play-based exercises for caregivers to assist with management of conditions seen at Valued Health Osteopathy.

Julia has completed extensive postgraduate study in order to provide Osteopathic care to children and infants. Her additional postgraduate studies include Osteopathic Obstetric care, Paediatric considerations and pre & post natal pilates.

Make an appointment today – Book online!

(03) 9570 9061

valuedhealth.com.au

You do not need a referral to see one of our friendly Osteopaths at Valued Health Osteopathy. We have a very good relationship with many surrounding doctors, other health practitioners and personal trainers in the local community of Bentleigh East , Bentleigh, Ormond, McKinnon, Oakleigh, Carnegie, Caulfield, Moorabbin, Murrumbeena, Brighton, Clayton and Clarinda.

Valued Health Osteopathy offers Osteopathy, Clinical Pilates, Massage Therapy, Exercise Rehabilitation and Strength & Conditioning. Valued Health Osteopathy is open 6 days a week with early morning and evening appointments. Move better with Osteopathy!

Osteopath in Bentleigh East, Osteopath in Bentleigh, Osteopath near Ormond, Osteopath near McKinnon, Osteopath near Oakleigh, Osteopath near Cheltenham, Osteopath near Brighton, Osteopath near Caulfield, Osteopath near Carnegie, Osteopath near Clarinda, Osteopath near Moorabbin.

Valued Health Osteopathy is located at 3/658 Centre Road, Bentleigh East, Melbourne, Victoria, 3165.

Valued Health Osteopathy | Osteopathy Australia

Osteopath Bentleigh East, Osteopath Bentleigh, Osteopath Ormond, Osteopath McKinnon, Osteopath Moorabbin, Osteopath Murrumbeena, Osteopath Oakleigh, Osteopath Carnegie, Osteopath Caulfield, Osteopath Clayton, Osteopath Brighton and Osteopath Cheltenham, Osteopath Dingley, Osteopath Beaumaris, Osteopath Melbourne.

References:

http://www.arthritisaustralia.com.au/images/stories/documents/info_sheets/2015/JIA/Arthritis_Aust_JIA_info_sheet_Growing_Pains.pdf https://www.childrenscolorado.org/conditions-and-advice/conditions-and-symptoms/conditions/growing-pains/ https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/13019-growing-pains https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5349398/ https://raisingchildren.net.au/guides/a-z-health-reference/growing-pains#:~:text=Some%20children%20with%20growing%20pains%20might%20also%20get,the%20muscles%20of%20the%20thighs%2C%20calves%20or%20feet