By FisioterapiaECO Physio, Sin categoría, Work Injury

How physical therapy can reduce sick leave in hotels (a real case in Tenerife South)

Marta, the woman who never gives up (even when her body says enough is enough)

Marta (not her real name) has been cleaning houses for years. She is fast, meticulous, and likes to leave every corner spotless. But a few weeks ago, something started to change:
Her back screamed when she bent over. Her arms felt as heavy as if she were carrying bags of cement. She no longer worked with the same agility… and at the end of the day, she couldn’t even sleep.

Like many women in physical jobs, cleaners, maids, laundry staff, she endured. Until her body said “enough is enough.” That’s when she decided to come to the clinic.

After just two or three physical therapy sessions, Marta began to notice changes:
✔ She slept better.
✔ She could move her arms without pain.
✔ She could bend over without that treacherous “stabbing” pain.
✔ She felt strong again to face her day.

This improvement lasts for about four months, until the overload comes knocking at her door again. Then she returns. She takes care of herself. And she carries on. Because physical therapy not only relieves pain, it also protects.

Like Marta, many women in cleaning or hospitality work with their bodies as tools. And if that tool breaks… everything stops.

👉 Taking care of them also means taking care of tourism, the economy, and the dignity of work.

📉 The reality: chambermaids in Tenerife have the highest rate of sick leave in the sector.

According to the most recent data, 4 out of 10 chambermaids in the south of Tenerife are forced to take sick leave every year. This rate (38%) is almost double the national average for the service sector.
The main causes:
🔹 Back, shoulder, and knee injuries.
🔹 Continuous physical overexertion.
🔹 Lack of rest and insufficient staffing.

In addition, these sick leaves last longer than in other regions (up to 78 days in cases of shoulder injuries) and generate high costs for hotels, Social Security, and the workers themselves.

MAIN IDEAS FROM THE EXECUTIVE REPORTS (SUMMARIZED):

Tasa de bajas altísima:
En el sur de Tenerife, el 38% de las camareras de piso han sufrido al menos una baja laboral al año (muy por encima del promedio nacional del 21%).
Main causes:
Chronic musculoskeletal disorders (low back pain, shoulder and knee injuries, carpal tunnel syndrome) due to daily physical overexertion: lifting mattresses, moving furniture, cleaning while bending over or in awkward positions.
Prolonged sick leave:
Many sick leaves exceed 30 days (even 70–80 in cases such as shoulder injuries), due to the type of injury and the saturation of the healthcare system.
Costes muy elevados:
For companies, Social Security, and mutual insurance companies. It also means extra work for colleagues who are not injured, creating a vicious cycle of new sick leaves.
Poor ergonomic conditions:
Lack of investment in appropriate tools: adjustable beds, ergonomic trolleys, task rotation, or a reasonable number of rooms.
Aggravating factors:
Reduced staffing levels, non-stop tourism (there is no low season in the Canary Islands), an aging workforce, and a lack of active prevention.
Tendencia creciente (2021–2025):
After the pandemic, the tourism sector has boomed, but without improving conditions for those who clean. Sick leave is not only more frequent, but also longer and more costly.

💡 What if we prevent rather than cure?

This is where preventive and functional physiotherapy comes in, a key ally in reducing both the frequency and duration of sick leave.

At the Eco Physiotherapy Center, we help companies in the hotel sector and their workers with services that make a difference:

🛠️ Our services to prevent work-related injuries

1. Personalized functional assessments

We identify weak points before they turn into injuries. We evaluate strength, mobility, and endurance in critical areas such as the lower back, shoulders, and knees.

2. Preventive physical therapy

Regular treatments that improve mobility and reduce accumulated tension. Regular sessions prevent relapses and improve overall well-being.

3. Postural hygiene and ergonomics workshops

We teach effective techniques for lifting loads, making beds without damaging the spine, and using the body intelligently.

4. Therapeutic exercise programs

We create simple, tailored routines to maintain muscle tone without the need for a gym. Sometimes, 15 minutes a day can make all the difference.

5. Progressive return to work

We support workers after sick leave, so they can return safely and without fear of relapse.

💬 Benefits for everyone

✔ Companies reduce absenteeism costs, improve productivity, and enhance the work environment.
✔ Employees feel cared for, improve their health, and boost their self-esteem.
✔ Society saves millions in healthcare benefits and services.

Investing in physical therapy is not an expense; it is a smart strategy.

✋ What if we prevent the next sick leave?

At Centro Eco, we don’t wait for injuries to happen. We act before, accompany during, and help after.

👉 If you manage or work in a hotel, request a free information session to learn about our preventive plan for housekeeping staff.

🌿 Because taking care of those who take care of others… is also good for your health.

18/07/2025

By FisioterapiaECO Physio, Sin categoría, Studies, Work Injury

Low back pain and sick leave: how physical therapy can prevent the collapse of the hotel sector

One sick leave avoided, one company saved

My neighbor is a truck driver for a hardware store, and he’s one of those guys who never complains. But that day, after unloading some bags of cement, something “cracked” in his back.

“It’s nothing,” he said.

Twenty days later, he couldn’t even tie his shoelaces. The back pain became unbearable. He was on his way to sick leave.

Until he came to the clinic. In the first session, we realigned his vertebrae, released the muscle spasm… and two days later he was back behind the wheel. Back to work. Back to living without pain.

The moral of the story: don’t wait for the pain to scream. Treat it when it’s just a whisper.

The reality of sick leave in Spain

In 2024, Spain recorded more than 5.24 million cases of sick leave due to common contingencies, 10.3% more than the previous year. These cases lasted an average of 41 days, accumulating more than 215 million lost working days between January and July alone.

Musculoskeletal disorders (low back pain, back pain, hernias, etc.) accounted for 1 in 3 cases. These were followed by mental disorders (anxiety, burnout, depression), which have doubled in incidence since 2017.

According to the Bank of Spain, the proportion of workers on temporary disability leave has risen from 2.7% (2019) to 4.4% (2024), widespread across all regions and sectors.

Hotel sector: the epicenter of absenteeism

In places such as the Canary Islands and the Balearic Islands, the problem is exacerbated. In the hotel sector in southern Tenerife (Arona and Adeje), absenteeism has reached 20% or more in the high season.

Main causes:

Physical overload: Housekeepers suffer from lower back pain and other chronic injuries from lifting beds, bending over, and pushing heavy carts.
Work-related stress: Long hours, changing shifts, and constant pressure affect mental health.
Staff shortages: This forces the employees who are present to work harder, creating a vicious circle.
Expensive housing and transportation: Many employees have to travel long distances, which increases exhaustion.

Economic cost of absenteeism

The impact is not only personal. It is also economic:

Spending on temporary disability benefits in 2024 exceeded €15 billion, 78.5% more than in 2019.
Companies assumed €4.613 billion in wage supplements and replacements.
In hotels, the additional labor cost due to sick leave reaches up to 25% extra compared to the initial budget.

Physical therapy: an effective and cost-effective solution

Let’s go back to my neighbor’s case. A timely session prevented him from taking 40 days off work. The same logic can be applied in companies:

Early intervention = fewer days off work.
Less medication. Fewer relapses.
Better quality of life for the worker.

In the case of the hotel sector, many hotels are already taking measures:

Real examples:

Hiring physical therapists for staff.
Agreements with clinics for preventive sessions.
Introduction of adjustable beds and ergonomic carts.
Stretching, yoga, and stress management classes.

Measures in place in Tenerife South

Internal reorganization:

Rotating shifts, support between departments, and cross-training to cover gaps.

Temporary hiring:

Although this increases costs, it allows services to be maintained. Some chains have created pools of substitutes.

Automation and technical aids:

The Canary Islands Government subsidizes the purchase of adjustable beds and ergonomic cleaning carts.

Well-being programs:

Such as “Lopesan Vita,” with health challenges, emotional support, and access to physical therapy.

Shared transportation:

Free buses connect Santa Cruz and other towns with hotels in the south, reducing the stress of commuting.

Housing for employees:

Spring Hotels has acquired properties to create affordable rental housing for its staff.

Changes in labor agreements

In 2025, the Tenerife hospitality agreement introduced a new clause: employees must now have 12 months’ seniority to receive 100% of their salary during sick leave. The aim is to discourage short-term sick leave among new staff.

A pilot project has also been set up with the Canary Islands Government to improve recovery and return-to-work processes.

Pain waits for no one

Lower back pain is not just simple pain. It is one of the main causes of sick leave in Spain. And most importantly, much of it is preventable.

The case of the truck driver is just one example. What physical therapy did for him can also be done for dozens of hotel workers, housekeepers, cooks, and receptionists.

Prevention is care. And care is savings.

In a sector such as tourism, where every person counts, caring for occupational health means protecting the quality of the destination.

Sources:

Ministry of Social Security
Bank of Spain
Hosteltur
CEHAT / Ashotel
Cadena SER / Canarias7
Trade union reports

Do you manage a hotel or tourism business?
Perhaps it’s time to integrate physical therapy into your workplace strategy. Preventing sick leave can be cheaper than covering it.

07/07/2025

By FisioterapiaECO Exercises, Physio

A story of intuition, perseverance, and transformation with Parkinson’s

When she came to our clinic, Marta (not her real name), aged 49, had been suffering from persistent pain in her left shoulder after receiving the COVID vaccine.
She had already seen two physical therapists, but the pain continued, with no clear improvement.
Something didn’t add up.

In the first few sessions, we observed more profound symptoms: a certain stiffness when walking and a slight clonus in her left arm.
It wasn’t just her shoulder… it was her nervous system crying out for help.

We decided to continue treating her with physical therapy, but also to refer her to a neurologist.
The tests confirmed what we suspected: signs consistent with pre-Parkinson’s disease.

From there, we began a joint and comprehensive effort.
Specific physical therapy sessions, physio-Pilates, and close monitoring paved the way.

FisioPilates

🕊️ Today, one year later, Marta says it with a serene smile:
“I’m better than I was on the first day I arrived.”

And she doesn’t say it just because the pain has disappeared. She says it because she has regained confidence in her body, in its ability to move, adapt, and move forward.

Physical therapy doesn’t always cure, but it does transform.
Sometimes, the most valuable thing is not eliminating a symptom, but opening a new path with awareness, movement, and courage.

https://www.dr-diego-santos-garcia-neurologia.es/l/doctor%2C-%C2%BFcual-es-mi-pronostico-del-parkinson-%C2%BFcomo-voy-a-evolucionar/#:~:text=Hoy%20en%20d%C3%ADa%2C%20con%20los,de%20vida%20es%20aceptablemente%20buena.

Parkinson: síntomas, tratamiento y el papel clave de la fisioterapia para mejorar la calidad de vida

Pilates terapéutico : Pilates adultos mayores

By FisioterapiaECO Exercises, Physio, Sporting

Therapeutic Pilates: Pilates for older adults

Benefits of Pilates for people over 40

The Pilates method as a therapeutic tool for adults aged 40 to 60

The Pilates method was created by Joseph Pilates in the 20th century and is based on the idea that the mind and body are intrinsically connected and that, through the practice of specific exercises, it is possible to improve the health and well-being of both.
Joseph Pilates, the creator of the method, developed a series of principles and exercises designed to strengthen the body in a balanced way, improve posture and flexibility, and promote a focused and calm mind.

https://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Joseph_Hubertus_Pilates?utm_source=chatgpt.com

Pilates has become a popular discipline that encompasses both body and mind, and its holistic approach to physical exercise and health has gained popularity around the world.
Although the essence of the method has been greatly distorted today, there are those who still delve into its philosophy and try to maintain it so that the real effectiveness of Pilates is not lost.
The Pilates method has been used for injury rehabilitation, as its principles and exercises help prevent and treat injuries, especially back injuries.

https://www.corepilatesenergycenter.com/biografia-joseph-pilates/?utm_source=chatgpt.com

Do you feel like your body is starting to slow down between the ages of 40 and 60? Whether due to discomfort, stiffness, or simply the passage of time, the Pilates method offers a comprehensive, accessible, and surprisingly transformative solution. In this article, we explain why it is the best option for staying strong, flexible, and centered, regardless of whether you have a pre-existing condition or simply want to take care of your health.

What is therapeutic Pilates and why is it ideal for mature adults?

Therapeutic Pilates adapts classic exercises to specific health goals: mobility, pain relief, improved posture, balance, and coordination. It focuses on fluid movements, postural control, conscious breathing, and core strengthening, all with low impact and full attention to the body. It is perfect for people in the 40 to 60 age range: effective, safe, and without overload.

Main physical and emotional benefits

Improved posture and strengthening: you reinforce your abdominal, lumbar, and stabilizing muscles, correcting common imbalances at this stage of life.

Relief from joint or muscle pain: many students reduce symptoms of low back pain, neck pain, or osteoarthritis thanks to controlled movements and gentle stretching.

Emotional well-being and stress reduction: the focus on conscious breathing and the mind-body connection relieves anxiety, improves sleep, and brings a sense of calm.

Injury prevention and increased mobility: develops flexibility and proprioception, which are key at this stage in maintaining good functionality and preventing falls or discomfort.

Who is Pilates recommended for people over 40?

People with common conditions
If you have chronic back pain, osteoarthritis, hormonal changes (such as menopause), tendonitis, or fibromyalgia, Pilates can offer very effective adaptations. By strengthening without impact and working on muscle control, it becomes a valuable tool for relief and functional improvement.

People without medical conditions but who want to maintain their physical and emotional well-being
Do you want to take care of your body, prevent discomfort, and feel more agile? Pilates is ideal for improving your physical fitness, posture, and emotional balance.

How to get started with therapeutic Pilates as a mature adult

Initial assessment and personalized adaptation
Find a professional (physical therapist, instructor trained in therapeutic Pilates) to perform a postural and mobility assessment. This will allow the exercises to be tailored to your actual needs.

Frequency, type of exercises, and progression
Ideally, start with 2 to 3 gentle sessions per week, combining Mat with exercises on equipment (Reformer, Cadillac, chairs). As you progress, you can increase the intensity or incorporate deep breathing and stability exercises.

Recommended techniques
Mat Pilates (mat) for mobility and basic stabilization.
Equipment such as Reformer for progressive loads and advanced postural control.
Focus on diaphragmatic breathing that maximizes physical and emotional benefits.

Real stories: how Pilates has transformed lives (between 40 and 60 years old)

“I used to suffer from daily lower back pain, but now, in just a few months, I can walk comfortably and have regained mobility” — María, 52 years old.

“Menopause brought me anxiety and insomnia. I started Pilates and today I sleep better and feel energized” — Ana, 48 years old.

“I just wanted to avoid injury and stay active, but Pilates has not only strengthened me, it has given me balance and confidence” — Javier, 57 years old.

These stories show how consistent, well-taught, and adapted practice can change your quality of life.

Practical tips to get the most out of it

Choose a qualified center or professional
Look for training in therapeutic Pilates (including physical therapy) and experience working with mature adults. Opt for small classes where adjustments can be personalized.

Combine Pilates with healthy habits
Incorporate daily stretching, adequate hydration, a balanced diet, and gentle walks. It all adds up to comprehensive recovery and well-being.

Continuous monitoring and adaptation
Your body changes. Reassess yourself every 2-3 months: gradually increase challenges, review postures, and adjust exercises to avoid stagnation.

Conclusion:

Pilates is not just physical exercise; it is an investment in your overall well-being. Especially between the ages of 40 and 60, it can be a powerful therapeutic tool because it relieves ailments, strengthens, and balances the body and mind. Do you want to feel stronger, more flexible, and emotionally balanced? Start today.

✅ Call your local center or therapeutic Pilates instructor.
✅ Discuss your goals and current physical condition.
✅ Take the first step toward a stronger body, a calmer mind, and a more fulfilling life.

FisioPilates

31/05/2025

By FisioterapiaECO Exercises, Physio, Therapy, Work Injury

Relieving neck pain

Relieving neck pain: a practical guide to regaining your well-being

Discover how to relieve neck pain with stretching, self-massage, physical therapy, and Pilates. Improve your well-being with this practical guide.

When your neck screams: a true story

Laura, a 34-year-old graphic designer, had been experiencing sharp pain in her neck for months. The stress of work, hours in front of the computer, and lack of movement meant that one day, when she woke up, she couldn’t turn her head. “It felt like I had a rock in the back of my neck,” she recalls.

Like many, she thought it would go away on its own. But it didn’t. That’s when she decided to take action: she learned simple stretches, self-massage techniques, and went to her physical therapist. Today, not only has she improved, but she has also incorporated Pilates into her weekly routine to prevent relapses.

Her story is one shared by many. If you are also dealing with neck pain, here is a clear and accessible guide to regaining your well-being.

What is neck pain?

Neck pain affects the neck and upper back area. It can be acute or chronic and is often associated with:

Poor posture (especially when sitting in front of screens).
Emotional stress.
Lack of movement or excessive tension.
Sports injuries or accidents.

Beyond discomfort, it can cause dizziness, headaches, and even radiate to the shoulders and arms.

Patologías

Stretching: release your neck in a few minutes

One of the most effective and accessible methods for relieving tension is cervical stretching.

Benefits:

Reduces stiffness.
Increases mobility.
Promotes circulation in the area.

Simple exercise:

Sit with your back straight.
Gently tilt your head to one side (as if you wanted to bring your ear to your shoulder).
Hold for 15 seconds without straining.
Repeat on the other side.

Do this every morning and at the end of the day. In less than a week, you will notice improvements.

Self-massage: your hands as a tool for relief

When your neck is tense, self-massage can be your best ally.

How to do it:

Use your index and middle fingers to gently press the muscles at the base of your skull.
Use circular movements.
Spend 2 minutes on each side.

This simple gesture can help you relax the cervical area and release accumulated tension.

When to see a physical therapist

Although stretching and massage help, acute neck pain should not be underestimated.

See a physical therapist if:

The pain persists for more than a week.
There is limited movement.
You feel tingling in your arms or hands.

The physical therapist will evaluate your case and apply techniques such as manual therapy, dry needling, or specific mobilizations. In addition, they will teach you exercises tailored to your particular case.

Don’t wait for the pain to become chronic. Professional care makes all the difference.

Pilates: more than exercise, prevention

Pilates is a comprehensive method that works the body and mind, ideal for caring for the cervical area.

Advantages of Pilates:

It strengthens the deep muscles of the neck and back.
It improves posture.
It teaches you to breathe and move with awareness.
It prevents future injuries.

Many physical therapists recommend it as an ideal complement to treatment, especially if you work long hours sitting down or under stress.
Conclusion: your neck deserves care

FisioPilates

Conclusion: your neck deserves care

Neck pain is not something we should normalize. It affects your energy, your sleep, and even your mood. The good news is that there is a lot you can do to relieve and prevent it:

Stretch daily.
Practice self-massage.
Consult your physical therapist.
Incorporate Pilates into your life.

Like Laura, you can go from pain to wellness with small, sustained changes.

WHEN TO USE COLD?

✔ Ideal in the first 48-72 hours

Acute pain (due to a bad movement, sudden muscle spasm, or whiplash).
Obvious inflammation: hot, swollen, or red area.
Post-trauma: blow, accident, fall, cervical sprain.

🎯 What does cold do?

Reduces inflammation.
Decreases pain.
Controls bruising.
Prevents further damage.

✅ How to apply cold:

Use a cold gel pack or ice wrapped in a cloth (never directly on the skin).
Apply for 10-15 minutes every 2 hours.
Do not sleep with the cold pack on or exceed 20 minutes.

🔴 WHEN TO USE HEAT?

✔ Ideal after the first 72 hours

Chronic pain (more than a week).
Persistent muscle tension.
Pain due to stress or poor posture.
Stiffness when moving the neck without inflammation.

🎯 What does heat do?

It relaxes the muscles.
It improves circulation.
It increases tissue elasticity.
It relieves the feeling of stiffness.

✅ How to apply heat:

Heating pad, seed bag, or warm, damp towel.
For 15-20 minutes, 2-3 times a day.
Do not apply to damaged skin or sleep with it on.

⚠️ AVOID THESE MISTAKES

Do not use heat if there is acute inflammation (it will make it worse).
Do not use cold if the pain is chronic or muscular without inflammation.
Do not use either if you have severe circulation problems or altered sensitivity (consult first).

And you, are you taking care of your neck as it deserves?

17/05/2025

By FisioterapiaECO Physio, Therapy

Knee pain and meniscus injury

Meniscus injury: causes, symptoms, and solutions for your knee pain

Discomfort when going down stairs. That strange “click” when turning. Pain that comes and goes without warning. If any of this sounds familiar, you may be dealing with a meniscus injury. And no, you’re not alone.

Meniscus injuries are one of the most common causes of knee pain, especially if you play sports or are over 35. But don’t panic: an injured knee doesn’t mean your active life is over.

We’re going to explain what this injury is, how to identify it, and, most importantly, how to feel good again.

What is the meniscus and why is it so important?

Imagine two small crescent-shaped pads inside your knee. Those are the menisci. You have two in each knee, and their function is to cushion movements, protect the cartilage, and keep everything in place when you walk, run, or simply bend down.

But as with any part that gets a lot of use, it can also wear out or tear.

How do I know if I have a meniscus injury?

Common symptoms

Everyone experiences it differently, but these are the most common signs:

Knee pain (when walking, bending down, or turning).
Inflammation or swelling after exertion.
Feeling that the knee is “locked.”
Internal popping or clicking.
Difficulty fully extending or bending the leg.

Sometimes the pain appears days after the movement that caused the injury, which is why many people confuse it with a simple strain.

Most common causes

Sudden movements or turns (very common in sports).
Lifting weights with poor posture.
Degeneration due to age or progressive wear and tear.
Poor footing or muscle imbalances.

Treatment for a torn meniscus: is surgery always necessary?

This is one of the most common questions… and the answer is: it depends. Not all meniscus injuries require surgery.

Non-surgical options

Specialized physical therapy to strengthen the muscles that protect the knee.
Medication to reduce pain and inflammation.
Changes in exercise or sports routine.
Use of insoles or adjustments to footwear.

👉 In many cases, especially for minor injuries or wear and tear, these treatments work very well.

When is surgery necessary?

Surgery is usually recommended when:

There are constant blockages in the knee.
Pain persists despite conservative treatment.
It is a large tear or in an area with poor healing capacity.

Today, the most common operation is arthroscopy, a minimally invasive technique with good recovery. But the most important part comes after…

Rehabilitation after a meniscus injury: the key step that many underestimate

This is where many people get impatient. But if you want to move again without pain, rehabilitation is essential.

A good plan includes:

Personalized exercises to regain strength and mobility.
Balance and postural control work.
Gradual progression towards your usual physical activity.

Remember: it’s not just about “being pain-free,” but about regaining confidence in your knee.

Can you return to sports? Tips and recommendations

Yes! Many patients return to running, dancing, or hiking after a meniscus injury. But you need:

✅ Time
✅ Good professional support
✅ Patience with yourself

Avoid returning to sports too soon. Overconfidence is one of the most common (and most costly in terms of health) mistakes.

Conclusion: your knee can be fine again

A meniscus injury does not have to be the end of your active life. With early diagnosis, proper treatment, and rehabilitation, you can feel strong and confident again.

Listen to your body. You only have two knees… and they deserve to be taken care of properly. 💪

05/05/2025

By FisioterapiaECO Physio, Therapy

Parkinson’s: symptoms, treatment, and the key role of physical therapy in improving quality of life

What is Parkinson’s?

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disorder related to the loss of dopaminergic innervation in the substantia nigra (basal ganglia).
It is known that there are other altered circuits, structures, and neurotransmitters that may explain the broad spectrum of symptoms of the disease.
The prevalence of Parkinson’s has doubled in the last 25 years, with global estimates in 2019 showing more than 8.5 million people affected (WHO, 2022).

The precipitating cause is unknown, although it is probably multifactorial, with biological, genetic, environmental, and aging factors possibly involved.

Motor symptoms: Resting tremor, bradykinesia, rigidity, postural instability.

Non-motor symptoms: Neuropsychiatric disorders, autonomic disorders, sensory disorders, sleep disorders.

Objectives of physical therapy in Parkinson’s disease.

To improve the person’s quality of life, trying to slow the progression of the disease and minimizing the impact of the natural progression of symptoms
in their work, social, and family environments.

How do we do it?

Work on the quality of movements and coordination.

Work on elasticity, strength, and muscle tone.

Posture re-education.

Training in straightening and
balance reactions.

Maximizing functional capacity and independence in ADLs.

Gait training.

In more detail, we work as follows:

1. Initial assessment

Clinical interview: Collects information on motor symptoms (tremor, rigidity, bradykinesia) and non-motor symptoms (sleep disorders, fatigue, pain, depression).

Functional assessment: Uses scales such as the UPDRS (Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale), Tinetti test, and Timed Up and Go (TUG).

Gait and balance analysis: Observe freezing, festination, and risk of falls.

Respiratory assessment: Assess lung capacity and chest mobility.

2. Design of therapeutic objectives

Improve mobility and independence in daily activities.

Re-educate gait and posture.

Strengthen muscles and improve flexibility.

Train balance and prevent falls.

Optimize respiratory function.

Reduce stiffness and bradykinesia.

Teach relaxation and self-control techniques.

3. Physiotherapy intervention

a. Therapeutic exercise

Joint mobility: Active and passive exercises to maintain range of motion.

Muscle strengthening: Focused on lower extremities and trunk.

Gait training: Use of visual and auditory cues to improve cadence and stride length.

Balance: Exercises on unstable surfaces and changes of direction.

https://www.parkinson.org/library/espanol/fact-sheets/recomendaciones-ejercicio

b. Complementary therapies

Relaxation techniques: Diaphragmatic breathing and autogenic training.

Sensory stimulation: Use of textures and vibrations to improve proprioception.

c. Education and counseling

Teach strategies to overcome motor blocks.

Advise on home adaptations to improve safety.

Instruct family members and caregivers in assistance and mobilization techniques.
https://unamglobal.unam.mx/global_tv/concluyen-el-proyecto-cerebro-humano/

4. Follow-up and reassessment

Schedule regular sessions to assess progress and adjust the treatment plan.

Use the same assessment scales to measure the effectiveness of treatment.

🏠 What about exercising at home?

Essential! A professionally guided and adapted exercise routine can make all the difference. Walking to music, climbing stairs, doing gentle yoga or stretching… it all helps.

🔑 Consistency > Intensity

❤️ Living with Parkinson’s, but also with movement

Parkinson’s can slow you down in many ways, but it doesn’t have to stop your life. With a multidisciplinary approach—where physical therapy plays a key role—it is possible to:

✔ Maintain your independence
✔ Reduce the impact of symptoms
✔ Reconnect with your body and your abilities

By FisioterapiaECO Physio, Studies, Therapy

Prospective multicenter study of 60-day percutaneous peripheral nerve stimulation for chronic low back pain

A prospective, multicenter study evaluated the long-term effects of 60 days of percutaneous peripheral nerve stimulation (PNS) in patients with chronic low back pain (CLBP). After an average follow-up of 4.7 years, the results indicate that this minimally invasive intervention may offer sustained pain relief and improvements in quality of life.

Key study results

Pain relief: 65% of participants (15 out of 23) reported a clinically significant reduction (≥30%) in low back pain compared to baseline levels.
Improvements in disability and quality of life: Patients who responded positively to treatment experienced an average 63% decrease in pain intensity, along with significant improvements in disability and quality of life.
Reduction in invasive interventions: 70% of respondents (16 out of 23) avoided more invasive and costly procedures, such as radiofrequency ablation, neurostimulation implants, or lumbar surgery.
Patient satisfaction: 61% of participants expressed a preference for stimulation therapy over the use of pain medication.

Clinical implications

These findings suggest that 60-day percutaneous PNS may be an effective and durable therapeutic option for patients with LDD, especially those seeking alternatives to more invasive treatments. In addition, the intervention could be integrated into multimodal treatment strategies, combining it with physical therapy and other conservative therapies.

Additional considerations

Although the results are promising, it is important to note that the study did not include a control group and had a limited sample size. Further research with larger samples and controlled designs is needed to confirm these findings and establish more robust clinical recommendations.

SEO meta description: Study reveals that 60 days of percutaneous peripheral nerve stimulation offers lasting relief from chronic low back pain for up to 4 years after treatment.

03/05/2025

By FisioterapiaECO Physio, Therapy

Bertolotti syndrome: an often overlooked cause of specific back pain

Bertolotti syndrome: an underestimated cause of chronic low back pain

Bertolotti syndrome is a common but underdiagnosed cause of chronic low back pain in young adults. This condition is defined by the presence of a lumbosacral transitional vertebra (usually L5) with hypertrophy of the transverse processes, which may articulate or partially fuse with the sacrum or ilium.

This type of anomaly, which affects between 3% and 21% of the population, significantly alters the biomechanics of the lumbosacral spine, predisposing it to early disc degeneration and facet overload in adjacent segments.

One of the most common clinical findings is the presence of mechanical low back pain, often accompanied by structural scoliosis and radicular symptoms due to compression of nerve roots caused by narrowing of the intervertebral foramen.

Physiotherapeutic approach

Conservative treatment through physiotherapy plays a key role in controlling symptoms, improving functionality, and preventing degenerative progression.

The three most commonly used therapeutic pillars are:

✅ Specific spinal mobilization: to restore mobility in hypomobile segments adjacent to the transitional vertebra and reduce compensatory stiffness.
✅ Neurodynamic manual therapy: aimed at relieving irritation of the affected nerve roots using neural gliding techniques.
✅ Targeted stretching of the iliopsoas and quadratus lumborum: essential for reducing biomechanical tension in the pelvis and correcting muscle imbalances.

A personalized and progressive approach, based on individual clinical assessment, is essential to achieve sustained improvement in the patient.

Rehabilitación

Photónterapia

17/01/2025

By FisioterapiaECO Exercises, Physio, Therapy

Chronic lower back pain

Did you know that for people who experience lower back pain for more than 12 weeks or experience two episodes of lower back pain per year with discomfort lasting more than 24 hours, this is defined as chronic lower back pain? There are many factors that contribute to chronic lower back pain, including physical, psychological, social, and genetic factors.

Here is a list of tips and exercises that can help with chronic lower back pain:

Gentle Stretching: Perform lower back stretches, such as knees to chest or cat stretches.
Core Strengthening: Exercises such as planks or bridges help strengthen the abdominal and back muscles.
Yoga or Pilates: These practices can improve flexibility and strength.
Heat or Cold Therapy: Applying heat or ice to the affected area can relieve pain.
Stay Active: Avoid prolonged rest and stay active with gentle walks.
Therapeutic Massages: These can help relax tense muscles.
Mobility Exercises: Gentle movements to improve spinal mobility, such as trunk twists.
Proper Posture: Maintain good posture when sitting and standing.
Relaxation Techniques: Practices such as meditation or deep breathing to reduce stress.
Professional Consultation: It is always important to consult a healthcare professional for a personalized plan.

Category: Physio

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