Specialists in Physical Therapy & Treatment of Pain & Dysfunction
At Bethesda Physiocare®, we understand the plethora of conditions the human body can face. For this reason, we offer physical therapy treatment options for those in need. If you’ve been diagnosed with Marfan syndrome, Fibromyalgia, Interstitial cystitis, or any other condition listed here, then our team of physical therapists can help.
Marfan syndrome is a genetic disorder that affects the body’s connective tissue. Because connective tissue is found throughout the body, Marfan syndrome can affect many different areas of the body including the cardiovascular, ocular, integumentary, and musculoskeletal systems. In respect to physical therapy, generalized hypermobility is a prominent feature of Marfan syndrome. This may involve instabilities at joints including the hip, knee, spine, and ankles. Therefore it is imperative to develop an appropriate exercise program with a physical therapist who specializes in treating patients with connective tissue disorders. At Bethesda Physiocare, we offer a Hypermobility Program that is individualized to patient needs.
Dysautonomia is an umbrella term used to describe several different medical conditions that cause a malfunction of the Autonomic Nervous System. The Autonomic Nervous System controls the “automatic” functions of the body that we do not consciously think about, such as heart rate, blood pressure, digestion, dilation and constriction of the pupils of the eye, kidney function, and temperature control. People living with various forms of dysautonomia have trouble regulating these systems, which can result in lightheadedness, fainting, unstable blood pressure, and abnormal heart rates (Dysautonomia International, 2019).
There is a significant correlation between patients with Ehlers Danlos Syndrome (EDS) and dysautonomia. There are several hypotheses for this connection including decreased venous return and tone in the vasculature, inflammation/demyelination of the nervous system, and underlying cervical instability.
Physical therapy and exercise are important components of treatment for patients with dysautonomia. Working with a physical therapist to determine an appropriate starting point and series of progressions is imperative to restoring function and improving cardiovascular fitness. At Bethesda Physiocare, we are well versed in treating patients with various forms and severity of dysautonomia.
Fibromyalgia (FM) is characterized by widespread pain and hyperalgesia (hypersensitivity to touch and mechanical stimulus), which is often accompanied by fatigue, memory problems, and sleep disturbances. FM can be a standalone diagnosis, however, it is often accompanied by other medical conditions such as Ehlers Danlos Syndrome, Myofascial Pain Syndrome, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, and dysautonomia. The exact underlying mechanism of FM is still disputed, though the result is a nervous system that has become overly sensitized (central sensitization).
Treatment of FM often indicates and interdisciplinary approach with physical therapy being one of the main pillars. Physical therapy for fibromyalgia can involve several treatment strategies including manual therapy, dry needling, therapeutic exercise and graded exposure to activity.
Traumas or surgery can result in potentially painful and restricted scar tissue. While it is normal and important for our body to lay down new collagen in the form of scar tissue, there are times it can limit the range of motion, cause local and referred symptoms, and perpetuate post-surgical pain. At Bethesda Physiocare we specialize in forms of dry needling and manual therapy which can profoundly influence the characteristics of scar tissue. If you have an old scar from a c-section, orthopedic surgery, or trauma, then you should consider consulting with one of our therapists.
Interstitial cystitis (IC) is a bladder condition that usually consists of overlapping symptoms such as bladder and pelvic pain, urinary frequency/urgency, and discomfort with sexual intercourse. There are two subtypes of IC: Ulcerative (10%) and Non-Ulcerative (90%). Pelvic physical therapy is an evidence-based and first-line recommendation for Non-Ulcerative IC. This involves proper education, bladder/pelvic floor training, manual therapy and dry needling as necessary.
Pudendal neuralgia symptoms include vulvar or penile pain, perineal pain, anal pain, clitoral pain, and pain at the ischial tuberosities as well as pain with bowel movements, urination, and orgasms. There are currently no definitive diagnostic criteria for pudendal neuralgia. Because of that, it is imperative to work with an experienced pelvic PT to rule out other sources of pain including myofascial trigger points and referred pain.
If you don’t see your specific condition, we may still be able to help! Schedule a consultation today to see what our clinic can do for you.
