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Showing posts from February, 2025

Diaphragmatic Breathing and Its Impact on the Pelvic Floor

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  Breathing is an automatic function, but how we breathe can significantly impact our overall health—especially the pelvic floor. Many people don’t realize that the diaphragm and pelvic floor work together as part of the body’s core system. Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy Edmonton At Next Step Physiotherapy , we help patients understand and strengthen this connection through diaphragmatic breathing techniques, improving pelvic floor function and overall well-being. During inhalation, the diaphragm contracts and moves downward, causing the pelvic floor to relax and lengthen. During exhalation, the diaphragm rises back up, and the pelvic floor engages and lifts to support the internal organs. When this cycle is disrupted—often due to stress, poor posture, or shallow breathing—it can lead to pelvic floor dysfunction, lower back pain, and core instability. Benefits of Diaphragmatic Breathing for the Pelvic Floor Practicing diaphragmatic breathing can offer several advantages, particularly ...

How to Create a Supportive Environment for Vestibular Patients

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Vestibular disorders can be debilitating, causing dizziness, balance issues, vertigo, and nausea that significantly impact daily life. Whether you’re a caregiver, family member, friend, or healthcare provider, understanding how to create a supportive environment can make a world of difference in a vestibular patient’s recovery and well-being. At Next Step Physiotherapy , we work with patients struggling with Vestibular physiotherapy Edmonton , helping them regain stability and confidence. Here’s how you can support someone dealing with a vestibular disorder. Provide a Safe and Comfortable Physical Environment Patients with vestibular disorders often experience dizziness and imbalance, making fall prevention a priority. A vestibular-friendly space should include: ✔ Good lighting – Helps minimize visual disturbances and disorientation. ✔ Clear pathways – Reduce clutter to prevent tripping hazards. ✔ Stable furniture – Chairs with armrests provide support when sitting or standing. ✔ Non-s...

Leg Weakness After a Car Accident: Physiotherapy Exercises

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Experiencing leg weakness after a car accident can be frustrating and limit your mobility. If you're struggling with reduced strength, balance issues, or difficulty walking, physiotherapy exercises can help restore function and improve recovery. Motor Vehicle Accident Physiotherapy Edmonton At Next Step Physiotherapy , we specialize in rehabilitation programs tailored to address post-accident leg weakness. Understanding Leg Weakness After a Car Accident Leg weakness may result from various factors, including: Nerve Damage: Impact from the accident may affect nerve function, weakness or numbness. Muscle Atrophy: Extended immobility or injury can cause muscle loss, making the legs feel weak. Joint or Ligament Injuries: Damage to the knee, hip, or ankle can lead to instability and weakness. Spinal Injuries: Affected spinal nerves may contribute to leg weakness and impaired movement. Physiotherapy focuses on strengthening muscles, improving flexibility, and restoring balance, helping ...

Dry Needling for Nerve Entrapment: Relieving Pressure and Pain

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Nerve entrapment occurs when a nerve is compressed by surrounding muscles, fascia, or connective tissue, leading to pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness. Whether caused by repetitive movements, poor posture, or injury, this condition can significantly impact daily activities and mobility. Dry needling is an effective physiotherapy technique that targets trigger points and tight muscles, helping to relieve nerve pressure and pain. At Next Step Physiotherapy , we offer specialized dry needling therapy Edmonton treatments to address nerve entrapment and restore function. Understanding Nerve Entrapment Nerve entrapment, also known as nerve compression syndrome, can occur in various parts of the body, including: ✔ Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (wrist and hand pain) ✔ Sciatic Nerve Entrapment (lower back, hip, and leg pain) ✔ Thoracic Outlet Syndrome (shoulder and arm pain) ✔ Piriformis Syndrome (sciatic nerve compression in the hip and gluteal region) When a nerve is compressed, it can cause sh...