Biomechanics- What is it and why does it matter?

     Biomechanics are the staple to any treatment platform. Why?, because it is an objective testing procedure that will reveal insufficiencies throughout the musculoskeletal system. With a biomechanics based testing system, the provider can develop an accurate diagnosis and perform treatment that will provide results. Now, what is biomechanics? Biomechanics is a standard for mobility throughout the musculoskeletal system. It answers the question how is this suppose to move and how far. This testing procedure allows the provider to assess the load and function of tissues and joints, similar to a blood pressure test for the heart. If the blood pressure reading is high, it tells you that the cardiovascular system is not functioning properly and that its is handling a load beyond its capacity, leading to pathology. Understanding biomechanics and range of motion is the only way to identify dysfunction in the musculoskeletal system.

Adhesion in the soft tissue. 

     Adhesion, also known as scar tissue, is the one of the most common pathologies in the human body and commonly misdiagnoses/treated. Adhesion is a glue like substance that when deposited sticks muscles, tendons, ligaments, and nerves together. Injury and overuse will cause the body to deposit scar tissue in response to damage or a hypoxic situation, it is the bodies mechanism to heal. Unfortunately, this scar tissue build up restricts mobility and doesn't allow the soft tissue to function properly. Common signs of adhesion are loss of range of motion, loss of strength and pain. Untreated restricted mobility leads to disc injuries and degenerative joint disease throughout the entire body. Don't let your pain go untreated.

Disc Bulges and Herniations

Unfortunately, disc derangements are commonly misdiagnosed or missed all together in the medical field. Patients will see several providers and get subpar answers and subpar treatment each time. It all comes down to the fact that you cannot treat any ailment without knowing and understanding the diagnosis. The most common symptom with a disc derangement is pain into the extremity following a specific distribution. For example, an L4 disc herniation causing pressure and irritation on the L5 nerve root will radiate burning/shooting pain into the outside upper leg, spiraling forward into the top of the big toe. This burning or shooting pain can be accompanied by more severe symptoms considered as red flags, like loss of strength, sensation, or reflexes. The disc derangement is almost always caused by poor mobility, leading to excessive loading of the disc, and eventually rupturing the outer fibrous layer. Many times, resolution of pain can be achieved from effective conservative treatment, not surgery. If you notice symptoms similar to this, make sure you seek treatment from a professional that can give you an accurate diagnosis.