As a primary caregiver, a physical therapist can assess, diagnose, and treat your injury through a combination of methods that may include: manual therapy, postural re-education, manipulation, dry needling, modalities such as ultrasound, laser and heat, and/or exercise prescription. Education plays an crucial role in physical therapy. The goal of physical therapy is to work with you to return you to your optimal function and strength, while educating you about your injury. This allows you to independently maintain a healthy body without the constant supervision of a therapist.

The John F. Barnes method of Myofascial Release is a unique and very effective intervention involving treatment of dysfunctional fascial patterns. In essence, fascia is a three dimensional matrix that holds your body together. It is mainly made of collagen, and it involves every internal part of the body – stabilizing movements, protecting against damage, and reducing friction in the joints. The fascial web is filled with something called mucopolysaccharide gel.

Strain of muscle and/or connective tissue during repetitive movement or physical activity can cause adhesions or microscopic tears in the fascia. Other tissue traumas such as past surgery can also result in fascial restrictions and damage. When muscles are tight, so is fascia. When experiencing muscular pain, the gel in the fascial web is thick, which inhibits movement. John F. Barnes’ approach uses sustained but gentle pressure to release the fascial restriction barrier. According to Barnes, this technique creates whole-body awareness and resolves restrictions to relieve pain for good.

While in-person visits are essential in many cases, there are some scenarios in which virtual visits can provide excellent ancillary benefits to your healing physical therapy journey. Virtual visits can allow continued accessibility, eliminating your drive-time, reducing the task of getting in an appointment and give you access the care you need from the comfort of your own home. In addition, this allows the practitioner to see your home, your space, your equipment and anything that could be available to use to your advantage.

Dry needling is a form of therapy in which fine needles are inserted into myofascial trigger points (painful knots in muscles), tendons, ligaments, or near nerves in order to stimulate a healing response in painful musculoskeletal conditions. As part of your overall treatment plan, dry needling has many benefits. The procedure is inexpensive and generally considered safe. It carries a low risk of complications if performed by a trained provider. Research shows dry needling can release your trigger points, which may help relieve your muscle pain and stiffness. Releasing your trigger points may also increase your flexibility and improve your range of motion.

Dry needling can help with musculoskeletal issues such as:
- Back issues - cervical, thoracic, lumbar
- Knee, ankle and foot injuries
- Shoulder injuries, tennis elbow, hand and wrist pain
- Tendon and ligament issues, repetitive/overuse injuries
- Chronic headaches, TMJ issues