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Clinical Examination of the Painful Hemiplegic Shoulder

Successful clinical outcomes are typically the result of the therapist’s ability to perform a thorough and accurate examination. In order to diagnose and prescribe lesion specific treatment, a clinician must not only be knowledgeable with the musculoskeletal system and how to systematically examine the affected joint, but feel confident with interpreting the results. Without an accurate assessment using proven orthopedic-based diagnostic techniques, pain and disability can persist unnecessarily for months or years. In a previous article, we looked at the biomechanics, pathoanatomy and pathomechanics of the hemiplegic shoulder. Today, I would like to continue this series by reviewing the clinical...

Strengthening a Spastic Muscle. Why the Kerfuffle?

Not as much now, but in the recent past, discussing strength training a hyperactive or spastic muscle was a very controversial topic amongst clinicians at happy hour, in the clinic, or at CEU’s. For many, the thought of having upper motor neuron lesion clients squeeze their hyperactive finger flexors or flex their spastic biceps in the late 1980-90’s (and earlier) would have made many clinicians cringe. The visual that comes to mind for me is something out of a CSI show, but instead of a homicide, you were looking at a clinical “assault and battery” where security would have been...

“I was amazed at the smooth motion I could accomplish with the SaeboMAS”

I was diagnosed with MS in March of 2013. I had been experiencing neurological symptoms for nine years, so it was not a big surprise when I got the diagnosis. I had a long period of time to adjust to the notion before it was an actual reality. I was afraid of having to use a wheelchair or living in a care facility. But my biggest fear was that I would lose my ability to paint, which was not only my career but also my passion. I heard about the SaeboMAS from my occupational therapist. I was not recovering as we had hoped,...

“The look of surprise and happiness on her face was worth more than a thousand words”

As President of Everest Healthcare, I know from personal experience that Saebo products not only give patients the ability to perform tasks with their affected hand that they could not otherwise with other physiotherapy options, but also restore hope that they may be able to regain functionality. One of my patients in his early thirties was delighted to perform grasp and release activities using the SaeboFlex for the first time since his stroke several months ago. For a young person seeking to regain employment and become financially independent again, functionality is essential. The SaeboFlex provides tremendous hope to patients of such possibilities. Further, I have seen...

De-icing the Mystery Behind Hemiplegic Frozen Shoulder

If you have attended a Saebo course in the past, you most likely have heard the comment “it is the hand that guides the arm”. Although this is theoretically true when discussing the importance of incorporating one’s hand functionally, broadly speaking however, we should avoid providing too much importance to the hand as it is only one element of the interdependent kinetic chain. Yes, the hand mainly guides the arm to interact and problem-solve the environment, however, if pain and limited motion exists proximally (i.e., shoulder), function will be compromised regardless of the hand’s ability to participate. One of the main goals of...