We may incorporate any of the following services in our treatment:


Laser Therapy

Laser therapy has been proven effective at BSM in treating ligament sprains, tendonitis, muscular strains, joint pain, reflex sympathetic dystrophy (RSD), and post-operative healing. Research has provided strong evidence supporting the effectiveness of laser therapy in accelerating tissue repair, bone healing, increasing circulation, increasing production of ATP, increasing cell metabolism, releasing growth factors, increasing collagen production, and stimulating the immune system. The results are faster injury and wound healing, decreased inflammation, and a reduction in pain. Patients who have failed with other non-invasive therapies often experience remarkable results with laser therapy. We have experienced no adverse effects from our laser treatment.

We use a Vectra Genisys 850nm cold laser system with 670nm LEDs. The combined output is 1040mW.

Custom Orthotics

Boston Sports Medicine provides custom orthotic fabrication for a wide variety of conditions including flat feet, overpronation, plantar fasciitis, and joint pain. This service includes a full evaluation and gait or running analysis. We exclusively use the plaster casting technique as it provides the most effective orthotics. There is a wide selection of material available to provide the most comfortable and effective orthotic. We also make recommendations for over-the-counter orthotics as necessary. Please call for information and pricing.

Craniosacral Therapy

Craniosacral therapy, developed by osteopathic physician John Upledger, is a gentle, hands-on method of evaluating and enhancing the functioning of the ‘craniosacral system’ which is comprised of the membranes and cerebrospianl fluid that surround and protect the brain and spinal cord. Using a soft touch to release restrictions, CST complements the body’s natural healing process. It is increasingly being used as a preventative health measure for its ability to bolster resistance to disease, and is effective for problems associated with pain and dysfunction, including migraines, chronic neck and back pain, stress and tension-related problems, and TMJ.

 

Massage Therapy

Soft tissue or deep tissue massage involves manipulation of muscle layers to lengthen tissue, ease muscular tension, and release holding patterns. It is usually combined with other therapies for maximum benefit.

 

Ultrasound

Ultrasound consists of high-frequency sound waves which, when applied to human tissue, penetrate deeper than any other heat modality. The benefits of ultrasound include decreasing inflammation and increasing circulation.

 

Progressive Resistance Exercise

A program of strengthening is developed and progressed by the physical therapist. Exercises are chosen based on the injury, phase of rehabilitation, and goals of the customer. A vast array of equipment and manual techniques are used to provide the resistance.

 

Joint Mobilization

When a joint becomes tight, self-treatment is ineffective. The most common symptom is pressure or pain with movement and a loss of range-of motion. Specialized manual techniques are used to increase the flexibility of the thick connective tissue around a joint. These techniques are most commonly performed on the shoulder, ankle, knee, and spine, but can be performed on any joint.

 

Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS)/Interferential/High-Volt/Neuromuscular Stimulation

Electricity is administered to the surface of the skin to retrain muscles, alleviate pain, and reduce swelling.

Gait Training/Gait Analysis

By observing an individual’s walking pattern, problems with flexibility, strength, and posture can be identified and addressed to eliminate pain and restore normal movement.

 

Manual Traction

A therapist administers a gentle pulling force on the spine to correct disc problems, alleviate pain, stretch muscles along the spine, and improve mobility.

Compressive Cooling

Pressure with low temperature is more effective than cold packs alone in reducing swelling. We utilize a computer-controlled device that circulates ice water around the injured limb while applying intermittent massaging pressure. The pressure and temperature can be adjusted.

McKenzie Protocol

Spinal disc injuries are very successfully healed using this specialized technique in as few as six sessions. The program emphasizes patient education in self-treatment and injury prevention. Manual techniques such as traction and joint mobilization can be used if necessary.

Iontophoresis

The use of electric current to deliver medication through the skin. Typically, prescription steroidal anti-inflammatory or analgesics drugs are used. Medication is delivered directly to the area of injury in an attempt to control pain and inflammation. The problems that oral medication can cause are eliminated.

Phonophoresis

The use of sound waves from an ultrasound machine to deliver medication through the skin. High concentration hydrocortisone is the medication most often used with during phonophoresis. This modality is used as one facet of the treatment plan to reduce swelling and pain.

Acupuncture Techniques

Energy channels are accessed by stimulating acupuncture points with negative and positive pressure, heat, electricity, and massage. The specific techniques are Gwa Sha massage, cupping, acupressure, moxibustion, and electric stimulation using point electrodes.

 

Work Hardening

An exercise program is designed and followed to strengthen and condition muscle groups specific to an individual’s occupation. Work hardening programs are significantly longer than a typical physical therapy session. The entire fitness facility is available to the client and therapist during work hardening sessions.

Running Evaluations with Video Analysis

Running evaluations are performed using video treadmill equipment to analyze a patient's running gait. Each running evaluation includes an assessment of strength, ROM, functional abilities, balance etc.. A patient is videotaped while running on the treadmill; the video is then used to analyze the patient's impairments during running. The therapist will also discuss proper shoe wear specific to each patient’s impairments and running needs. We collaborate with Marathon Sports to find the right shoe prescription for each patient at a discounted price.

Golf Swing Analysis

As a service to our golfing customers, video analysis of the golf swing is performed in our Watertown facility’s portable range and artificial turf. Problems with golf technique, flexibility and strength are addressed to make the rehabilitation process more enjoyable.

Post-Rehab Personal Training Program

Boston Sports Medicine has newly implemented the Post-Rehabilitation and Personal Training program for those of our patients who want to continue with rehabilitation goals and life changes. The program is designed specifically to fit the needs of each individual, focusing on either furthering rehabilitation goals or continuing with total body fitness. Each session is a one-hour session with a Certified Personal Training/Licensed Physical Therapist. Many different packages are offered.