Healthcare in Romeoville
The American Chiropractic Association cites back pain as one of the most widespread ailments suffered by Americans. In fact, experts estimate that as much as 80 percent of the population will experience a back problem at some time, and nearly 31 million Americans experience low-back pain at any given time.
The most likely cause of chronic pain and discomfort is simply the persistent misuse of one’s body—incorrect posture, movements and habits that one has acquired over the span of his or her life.
However, an experienced physical therapist is able to recognize poor body mechanics at first sight. Nikki Rivera, P.T., O.C.S. with Newsome Physical Therapy in Romeoville, says, “I can immediately tell a lot about someone’s potential problems as soon as I see them moving. Even the way they get out of their car, walk, sit or stand up reveals a lot about their body mechanics.”
Rivera’s analysis begins by a mix of both normative and subjective tests. By observing a patient performing various activities—sitting, standing and walking—she may notice any limping, slouching, leaning or awkwardness, which are instant signs of poor postural awareness.
In addition to Rivera’s eye for elegance of motion, her analysis is aided by a number of normative tests. By comparing the patients’ measurements for range of motion, flexibility and strength to professional standards, she is able to separate the symptoms from their underlying causes, make a diagnosis and recommend treatment.
Most people, naturally, are satisfied when their pain is alleviated. Through stretching, massage, icing and heating, many of the symptoms may go away. But to actually prevent pain from recurring, patients must correct those underlying actions whose symptoms have become manifest.
“In physical therapy, we guide the patient through everyday movements like walking, sitting and standing, showing how each muscle group should ideally work together, in order to maintain balance, core stability and a minimum of stress,” she explains.
Much of the difficulty in rehabilitation lies in the struggle to appropriate new behaviors and ways of moving into everyday life. One must overcome those habits which had previously felt natural and correct and adopt kinesthetically proper movements.
Rivera gives some general advice for preventing back pain and bodily stress. “Obesity puts added strain on the body, and by remaining active, one’s muscles, joints and other systems stay healthy. One should consciously practice good posture. Also, wearing high-heeled shoes greatly contributes to unnatural posture.”
While most people are oblivious to the impractical and unhealthy ways in which they carry themselves physically, there are many experienced professionals in the Romeoville area that can show anyone the way to a more healthy, comfortable and pain free life.
For more health information,contact one of these area medical professionals.
Bolingbrook Medical Center
400 Medical Center Dr.
Bolingbrook, IL 60440
(630) 226-8100
Brookville Medical Center
485 S. Weber Rd., Unit G
Bolingbrook, IL 60440
630-378-2000
Community Pediatrics
2250 Weber Rd., Ste. 2
Crest Hill, IL 60435
815-744-1600
Dr. Karcavich’s Office
300 Read St.
Lockport, IL 60441
815-836-8656
Edward Hospital & Health Services
801 S. Washington St.
Naperville, IL 60540
(630) 527-3000
Provena St. Joseph Medical Center
333 N. Madison St.
Joliet, IL 60435
(815) 725-7133
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