Usually the result of the natural aging process, DDD is a type of osteoarthritis of the spine. Normal wear and tear of our body as we age causes us to lose the inner gelatinous portion of the intervertebral disk and the volume of the disk decreases which results in less space between vertebrae. The disk becomes flatter and less flexible which makes the spine stiff and can lead to inflammation and pain. Nerves exiting the spinal cord in the same area may become compressed or irritated and cause pain, numbness, tingling and weakness. A degenerated disk in the neck (cervical spine) can cause pain in the neck, shoulder or arm. A degenerated disk in the lower back (lumbar spine) can cause pain in the back, buttocks or legs.
The Physical Therapists at Apple Physical Therapy will design a personalized treatment plan specific to you and your injury that will include stretching and flexibility exercises to improve mobility in the joints and muscles of your spine, arms and legs. We will also incorporate specific strengthening exercises focused on your core musculature and the muscles of your arms, shoulders and legs. Aerobic exercise has been shown to be helpful in relieving pain and promoting strength and mobility. Manual therapy (gentle hands on techniques) such as massage and stretching may be used to improve the mobility of stiff joints and tight muscles that may be contributing to your symptoms. We will talk to you about posture and educate you on the proper way to sit, stand, bend and lift to help relieve your pain and help you manage your condition. If necessary, your PT may elect to use modalities such as heat, ice and/or electrical stimulation to help reduce pain and ready the body for exercise.
With convenient locations in both Cherry Hill NJ and Marlton NJ, Apple Physical Therapy proudly serves such areas as Cherry Hill, Marlton, Medford, Voorhees, Mount Laurel, Maple Shade, Berlin, Moorestown and all of South Jersey’s Camden and Burlington counties. If you are looking for a Physical Therapist in the Cherry Hill area, we welcome you to our practice. Meet our team and schedule your appointment with us today!