Postural Syndromes

Postural Syndromes usually refer to things like scoliosis, forward head (Dowager's hump), or the forward lean often seen with individuals dealing with lumbar stenosis. Many of these are not able to be changed in the conventional sense as they are due to either genetics or normal age-related processes. Stenosis refers to the narrowing of the bony canals in the spine, scoliosis is a diagnosis given to those with an above average side to side curvature in either the lumbar or thoracic spine (or both), and a Dowager's hump is when we see increased cervical extension and increased thoracic flexion as we age. While physical therapy cannot easily change bone structure, most people dealing with “postural syndromes” are often dealing with pain or decreased function as it relates to meaningful activity! At Nevada Physical Therapy, we focus on education and instruction on how to optimize a patient’s function, decrease pain, and help guide the path back to resuming activities that are important to them! You can read about one of our physical therapist’s experiences with Scoliosis here.

Surgery is often recommended for patient’s dealing with these diagnoses but when we examine the research, we see non-surgical intervention to work just as well in the vast majority of these cases outside of a few extreme scenarios! Postural syndromes would be better described as “anatomical predispositions leading to sensitivity with movement” and as such, it makes it more clear on how they are managed. Specifically, individuals with scoliosis may be sensitive to extending overhead (pressing, lifting, etc) or decreased hip and shoulder rotation in certain planes of movement. Patients with stenosis of the lumbar spine often are limited to standing upright or walking for a particular distance. We often encourage patients to think about pain as “sensitivity to movement” which helps provide clarity on how we manage these cases: decrease sensitivity with graded exposure back into activity, a collaborative program on how to address any modifiable contributors if any such as hip mobility for example, and education on how to manage these conditions independently. If you want to read more about how physical therapy can help if you’ve been diagnosed with one of these “syndromes” check out these resources:

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Reviews

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Olivia

Patient

Nick was so attentive to my needs and he structured his schedule to fit mine. My therapy was focused on my strengths and weaknesses; therefore, my recovery time was much shorter than expected. I highly recommend Nevada Physical Therapy for any lingering pain you may be experiencing.

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Aleem

Patient

I cannot say enough positive things about this place. Came in with an ACL injury. I spent a few weeks working with jonathan. His evidence-based approach and motivational ability was really really inspiring. He helped me get back to normal and then some!

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Nadine

Patient

DAKOTA EZELL is at the top of MY list as a highly skilled, intuitive, present professional who values and treats me as a whole person, not just someone to fill a time slot

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Shahbaz

Patient

The best Physical Therapy place I have ever visited. Rare to see an emphasis on finding the best method to improve injury instead of giving everyone the same plan. But the best part about this place is it's approach to well being during and after PT.

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EP

Patient

I was referred to Brian Fearnley by someone with significant credibility. I consider working with Brian a huge stroke of luck. This specific 'PT' is increasing my recovery potential a hundred fold. Brian knows his stuff. He is well versed in PT. He has athletic history at UNR and is active in our local community. He is clearly in this profession to help people recover and get under their own power.

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Joyce

Patient

After two plus years of hip pain, three other physical therapists, quarterly injections and no relief, Crista made the pain go away! If I could give her and this practice 10 stars I'd do it!

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Perris

Patient

As a professional athlete, injuries can make or break a career. Luckily, in my case, I had Nevada Physical Therapy on my side. Not only did they physically help me recover from a meniscus surgery, but they provided the best emotional support you could ask for in such a difficult time.

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Ross

Patient

Phenomenal. I had some brutal injuries that resulted in four surgeries and seriously disrupted my life. There can be no doubt that the quality of life I enjoy today was a direct result of working with Nevada Physical Therapy.

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Brandon

Patient

I attended Nevada Physical Therapy for my post surgery physical therapy and have nothing but great things to say. For any of you reading this, this place is by far the best physical therapy place I have ever attended with exceptional staff. I had the pleasure to work with Dakota who is extremely knowledgeable, patient and would go above and beyond to make sure you're taken care of.

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