Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy

Musculoskeletal

PHYSIO DOWN UNDER SERVICES

Coccydynia

Coccydynia refers to pain in the coccyx, or tailbone, which is the small, triangular bone at the bottom of the spine. This condition can cause discomfort ranging from mild to severe, often making sitting difficult or painful. Coccydynia can result from trauma, repetitive strain, or idiopathic causes, and it affects people of all ages, but the risk of coccygodynia is 5 times higher in females than it is in males, which may be a result of the increased pressure that occurs during pregnancy and delivery.

Common causes of coccydynia include:

Trauma: Falls or direct impact to the tailbone, such as during sports or accidents.
Repetitive Strain: Prolonged sitting on hard surfaces, especially without adequate support.
Childbirth: Injury during delivery can contribute to coccyx pain.
Degenerative Changes: Age-related wear and tear or abnormal movement of the coccyx.

Symptoms of coccydynia may include:

Pain and tenderness in the tailbone area, worsened by sitting or pressure.
Discomfort during activities that put pressure on the coccyx, like bending or rising from a seated position.
Pain that radiates to the lower back or buttocks in some cases.
Sitting especially when leaning backwards
Pain with sexual intercourse
Pain/dysfunction with defecation (opening the bowels)

Diagnosing coccydynia typically involves a thorough assessment by a physiotherapist or healthcare provider, including a review of medical history and physical examination. Imaging tests such as X-rays or MRI may be used to rule out other conditions.

At Physio Down Under, our physiotherapy team offers effective treatments to alleviate coccydynia and improve quality of life:

As our therapists have the ability to assess the coccyx both internally and externally. Our approach ensures a thorough assessment to address all contributing factors for Coccydynia:

Assessment and treatment of the pelvic girdle, hips and pelvic floor
Soft tissue release of the muscles surrounding the coccyx/pelvis
Internal pelvic floor release or rectal release when indicated
Modifications to sitting/standing and sit to stand posture
Prescription of coccyx wedge cushion
Exercises to help promote return to normal, pain free function
Advice regarding bowel function and defecation

We collaborate closely with other healthcare providers as needed to ensure comprehensive care for coccydynia. Our goal is to help you manage pain, regain function, and prevent recurrence through personalized physiotherapy interventions.

Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction

Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction, or TMD for short, is a relatively common condition that can affect around 10% of the population. Typically, people describe this condition as a type of jaw pain or discomfort that can reach from the cheeks to the temple.

This type of jaw pain is connected to high jaw pressure. So, someone who frequently clenches their teeth could be more at risk because they put additional pressure on the TMJ (the jaw joint).

Pressure to the jaw can occur in many different forms, such as taking a direct blow to the jaw as part of sport activities or sustaining an accidental jaw injury. Additionally, enthusiastic chewing gum or pen chewers who chew for several hours every day are also at risk.

Finally, hypermobility in the jaw joint could also weaken it and cause pain.

Symptoms of TMD may include:

Headache around the temple or the base of the skull, especially in the morning
Difficulties and pain when opening or closing the jaw, such as when you are eating or yawning
Soreness when chewing or biting food
Ear pain as if the ear is blocked
Upper neck pain or neck stiffness
Pain in the face in the morning.

TMD can be associated with the following conditions which may also need management:

Joint hypermobility / hypomobility
Joint clicking / popping / instability
Muscle imbalance / malalignment
Bruxism (teeth grinding)
Tinnitus
Cervical dysfunction
Headaches

Treatments for TMD may include:

Internal and external joint mobilisation
Soft tissue release
Dry needling
Mobilisation and release of the (upper) cervical spine

Lower Back Pain

Lower back pain is a prevalent condition that can significantly impact daily life. It often manifests as discomfort ranging from a dull ache to sharp, stabbing pain. Causes may vary from muscle strain due to heavy lifting or poor posture, to more serious conditions like herniated discs or arthritis.

Symptoms of lower back pain can include:

Persistent ache in the lower back area
Pain that radiates down the legs (sciatica)
Difficulty standing upright or moving
Muscle spasms or stiffness

If you experience persistent or worsening pain, seeking professional evaluation is crucial for an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment plan.

At Physio Down Under, our physiotherapy team specialises in diagnosing and treating lower back pain using evidence-based practices. Diagnosis typically involves a comprehensive assessment, including physical examination and possibly imaging tests such as X-rays or MRI scans.

Our physiotherapists employ a variety of techniques tailored to your specific needs:

Muscle Energy Techniques (MET) of the lumbar spine, pelvis, thorax
Soft tissue massage to relax tight muscles
Joint mobilisation to improve hypomobile (stiff) joints
Dry needling
Exercise rehabilitation
Exercise rehabilitation based on functional exercise prescription and clinical Pilates
Nerve gliding techniques to address any neural irritation
Postural advice and correction
Taping
Lifestyle advice including any activity modifications
Prescription of supports and fascial release aids where required

We work closely with you to develop a personalised treatment plan aimed at reducing pain, improving function, and enhancing your overall quality of life. Depending on your condition, we may integrate additional therapies or refer you to specialists if necessary.

Preventing recurrence of lower back pain is crucial. Our team provides education on:

Proper lifting techniques and ergonomic principles
Lifestyle adjustments to maintain spinal health
Exercises and stretches to strengthen core muscles and support the spine

At Physio Down Under, we are dedicated to helping you overcome lower back pain and achieve optimal musculoskeletal health.

Pelvic Girdle Pain

Pelvic Girdle Pain (PGP) refers to pain experienced in the joints and ligaments of the pelvic region. It is a common condition, especially during pregnancy, but can also affect non-pregnant individuals due to various causes. PGP can range from mild discomfort to severe pain, impacting daily activities and quality of life.

Symptoms can include:

Pain in the pelvic region, including the lower back, hips, groin, and thighs
Pain that worsens with movement, such as walking, climbing stairs, or standing on one leg
Difficulty with activities like turning in bed, getting up from a chair, or getting in and out of a car
A feeling of instability or "giving way" in the pelvis
Pain that may radiate to the buttocks or down the legs

Causes can include:

Pregnancy-related factors: Hormonal changes, increased weight, and altered posture can cause pelvic girdle pain during pregnancy.
Injury or trauma: Direct injury to the pelvic area, such as a fall or accident, can lead to PGP.
Biomechanical factors: Poor posture, muscle imbalances, or altered movement patterns can contribute to pelvic pain.
Inflammatory conditions: Conditions such as ankylosing spondylitis or arthritis can cause inflammation and pain in the pelvic joints.
Previous pelvic surgeries: Scar tissue or changes in the pelvic structure post-surgery can lead to PGP.

Physiotherapy management can include:

Education and advice: Understanding the condition, learning proper posture and movement techniques, and advice on activity modification to manage symptoms.
Manual therapy: Techniques such as joint mobilisations, soft tissue massage, and myofascial release to reduce pain and improve mobility.
Exercise therapy: Tailored exercise programs to strengthen the muscles supporting the pelvis, improve stability, and enhance overall function.

This may include:

Core strengthening exercises: Focusing on the muscles of the abdomen, back, and pelvis to provide better support.
Pelvic floor exercises: Strengthening the pelvic floor muscles to improve stability and reduce pain.
Gentle stretching: To maintain flexibility and reduce muscle tension.
Pain relief techniques: Use of modalities such as heat/cold therapy, TENS (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation), or dry needling to alleviate pain.
Postural correction: Guidance on maintaining proper posture and ergonomics during daily activities to reduce strain on the pelvis.
Supportive devices: Recommendations for using support belts or braces to provide additional stability to the pelvic region.
Labor and delivery preparation: Guidance on optimal positions and movements during labour to minimise pelvic pain.

Pelvic Girdle Pain can significantly impact daily life, but with proper physiotherapy management, individuals can experience relief and improve their function. Early intervention is key to managing symptoms effectively.

Neck & Thoracic pain

Neck and thoracic pain can be debilitating, affecting your ability to work, sleep, and enjoy daily activities. Neck pain often arises from muscle strain, poor posture, or injury, while thoracic (upper back) pain can result from issues like muscle tension, joint dysfunction, or postural imbalances.

Symptoms of neck and thoracic pain may include:

Persistent stiffness or discomfort in the neck or upper back
Pain that radiates into the shoulders, arms, or chest
Headaches, especially originating from the base of the skull (cervicogenic headaches)
Limited range of motion or difficulty performing everyday tasks

If you experience chronic or severe pain, seeking professional assessment and treatment is essential to address underlying causes and prevent further complications.

At Physio Down Under, our physiotherapists specialise in diagnosing and treating neck and thoracic pain using advanced techniques and personalised care plans. Diagnosis typically involves a thorough assessment, including evaluating posture, range of motion, and muscle strength.

Our treatments are tailored to alleviate pain and improve function:

Manual Therapy: Hands-on techniques such as joint mobilisation or soft tissue massage to reduce muscle tension and improve mobility.
Exercise Programs: Targeted exercises to strengthen muscles supporting the neck and thoracic spine, improving posture and reducing strain.
Postural Correction: Education on ergonomics and posture awareness to prevent recurring pain.
Modalities: Therapeutic modalities like heat, ice, ultrasound, or dry needling to manage pain and promote healing.

We emphasise a collaborative approach to your care, working closely with you to develop a comprehensive treatment plan that meets your individual needs and goals. Depending on your condition, we may coordinate with other healthcare providers to ensure holistic care.

Preventing recurrence of neck and thoracic pain is crucial for long-term health:

Ergonomic assessments and workplace modifications to improve posture and reduce strain.
Education on proper lifting techniques and daily habits that support spinal health.
Regular exercises and stretches to maintain flexibility, strength, and mobility.

At Physio Down Under, we are committed to helping you overcome neck and thoracic pain, restore function, and enhance your overall well-being.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is a common condition that occurs when the median nerve, which runs from the forearm into the palm, becomes pressed or squeezed at the wrist. The carpal tunnel is a narrow, rigid passageway of ligament and bones at the base of the hand, which houses the median nerve and tendons. When the median nerve is compressed, it can result in pain, numbness, and weakness in the hand and wrist, radiating up the arm.

Symptoms include:

Numbness or tingling in the thumb, index, middle, and ring fingers
Pain or discomfort in the wrist or hand
Weakness in the hand, leading to difficulty in performing fine motor tasks
A tendency to drop objects due to a weakened grip
Symptoms often worsen at night

Causes include:

Repetitive hand movements, especially with prolonged wrist flexion or extension
Hereditary predisposition
Pregnancy, due to hormonal changes and fluid retention
Medical conditions such as diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and thyroid gland imbalance

Physiotherapy management can include:

Ergonomic modifications: Adjusting workstations, tools, and posture to reduce strain on the wrist
Activity modification: Identifying and altering activities that exacerbate symptoms
Splinting: Using a wrist splint, particularly at night, to keep the wrist in a neutral position and reduce pressure on the median nerve
Manual therapy: Techniques to mobilize the carpal bones and reduce nerve compression
Nerve gliding exercises: Exercises designed to facilitate the movement of the median nerve through the carpal tunnel
Strengthening exercises: Gradual introduction of exercises to improve the strength and flexibility of the wrist and hand muscles

De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis

De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis is an inflammatory condition affecting the tendons on the thumb side of the wrist. Specifically, it involves the extensor pollicis brevis and abductor pollicis longus tendons and their synovial sheaths. The inflammation causes pain and swelling, which can limit the movement of the thumb and wrist.

Symptoms can include:

Pain and tenderness at the base of the thumb
Swelling near the base of the thumb
Difficulty moving the thumb and wrist,especially when grasping or pinching
A catching or snapping sensation when moving the thumb
Pain that may radiate into the forearm

Causes can include:

Repetitive hand or wrist movements, such as those required in gardening, playing golf, or lifting a baby
Direct injury to the wrist or tendon
Inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis

Physiotherapy management can include:

Rest and activity modification: Reducing or modifying activities that strain the thumb and wrist
Splinting: Using a thumb spica splint to immobilise the thumb and wrist, allowing the tendons to rest
Manual therapy: Soft tissue techniques and joint mobilisations to reduce pain and improve function
Stretching and strengthening exercises: Gradual introduction of exercises to improve flexibility and strength of the affected tendons
Pain management: Use of modalities such as ultrasound, dry needling and heat/cold applications
Ergonomic advice: Educating patients on proper techniques and postures to avoid aggravating the condition

Physio Down Under Pte Ltd

Book an appointment

Valley Point Clinic

491B River Valley Road

Valley Point (Office Tower)

Unit #04-01A

Singapore

248373

Katong Satellite Clinic

i12 Katong

112 East Coast Rd

#03-01/02/03/04

Singapore

428802

Phone Number

+65 6980 8384

WhatsApp : +65 8874 4823

info@physiodownunder.sg