Torn Meniscus Physical Therapy in Washington, D.C.
PT Services for Meniscus Injury
What is a torn meniscus?
The meniscus is a piece of cartilage in the knee that cushions the joint and provides shock absorption between the femur and tibia. The meniscus can tear due to degeneration or a traumatic incident. Traumatic tears usually occur with forceful twisting or rotation during weight-bearing activities. Symptoms of a meniscus tear can include pain, locking, clicking, tenderness and/or weakness.
![Physical Therapy Torn Meniscus Washington DC](https://releasept.com/wp-content/uploads/Physical-Therapy-Torn-Meniscus-Washington-DC.jpg)
Can physical therapy make a meniscus tear worse?
The goal of physical therapy is always to improve your symptoms. Occasionally, you may leave a physical therapy session feeling a little more sore than you did initially, but these symptoms should subside within 1-2 days and overall your symptoms should be improving. If you have any questions about your physical therapy, please reach out to your physical therapist at Release PT today.
What are the benefits of doing physical therapy after a meniscus tear?
Physical therapy can help conservative management of a meniscus tear as well as rehabilitation related to a meniscus repair surgery. Your physical therapist at Release Physical Therapy can provide a full examination and help you weigh the pros and cons of surgical intervention. They can also help you with your pre-surgical strengthening and post-operative rehabilitation if needed.
Torn Meniscus FAQs
Not all meniscus tears require surgery. It is a good idea if you think you have a meniscus tear to schedule an appointment with your physical therapist at Release Physical Therapy today. Your expert physical therapist can educate you on what can be done to prevent surgery, what can be done before surgery if you decide to go that route, and what to expect post-operatively.
Yes, you are able to walk with a torn meniscus, but you should be cautious of your symptoms. If you think you have a torn meniscus, call Release Physical Therapy and schedule an evaluation today so you have a better understanding of what you should and should not be doing to prevent further pain or injury.
If you are planning to have surgery to repair a torn meniscus, you should plan to see your physical therapist at Release Physical Therapy before your surgery and immediately after (within days). Your therapist at Release Physical Therapy will be the best guide to help you with what to expect and timelines on when you can return to what you love to do.
If you have questions about what exercises can be done for your torn meniscus, it is recommended to schedule a consult with Release Physical Therapy today. Your expert therapist can do a thorough evaluation and guide you in what are the best things you can do to strengthen your knee. These exercises often involve hip, knee, and ankle strengthening exercises, self-joint mobility exercises, balance and proprioceptive exercises, and guidelines on what cardiovascular exercises you can or should do.
Everyone’s journey is different with a meniscus tear, dependent on your goals and the severity of the injury. If you have a meniscus tear, schedule an appointment with Release Physical Therapy today to get a better understanding of how long you should expect to be in physical therapy for your tear. Your expert physical therapist at Release Physical Therapy will do a full body examination to get a comprehensive look at what is going on in your knee and the surrounding areas.
About Release Physical Therapy
Release Physical Therapy is an award-winning physical therapy clinic, offering the best-in-class physical therapy to the Washington, D.C. area and surrounding communities. We offer flexible appointment times at two convenient locations in our Downtown and West End offices. Don’t wait to feel your best – schedule an appointment online or call our office at (202) 974-6621.
![Release Physical Therapy Washington DC](https://releasept.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/interior-uai-1058x794.jpg)
Our Approach
At Release Physical Therapy, we use evidence-based therapies to target the root cause of a condition, not just the symptoms. We offer a full range of treatments, including manual modalities, technology-assisted therapies, and both traditional and non-traditional techniques. We work one-on-one with our patients to develop an individualized treatment plan that meets their unique needs, conditions, wellness goals and fitness levels. Common conditions we treat include:
- Achilles tendonitis
- AC joint injury
- ankle sprains
- ankle fracture
- ACL injuries
- arthritis
- back injury
- back pain
- bursitis
- carpal tunnel syndrome
- cervical radiculopathy
- cervical strains
- chronic pelvic pain
- CL inuries
- compartment syndrome
- degenerative joint disease
- herniated disk
- de Quervain tenosynovitis
- fibromyalgia
- frozen shoulder
- golfer’s elbow
- headaches / migrains
- hip replacements
- ITB syndrome
- impingement syndrome
- knee replacement
- neck pain
- nerve entrapment
- osteoporosis
- osteoarthritis
- overuse injuries
- knee cap pain syndrome
- knee tendinitis
- plantar fasciitis
- rotator cuff tear
- runner's knee
- scoliosis
- sciatica
- shoulder tendinitis
- spinal stenosis
- spondylolisthesis
- shin splints
- tennis elbow
- thoracic outlet syndrome
- TMJ dysfunction
- wrist fracture
- and several others...
What Patients Are Saying
Physical therapy is about results. Too often, patients discontinue therapy because of a bad experience. At Release Physical Therapy, we are committed to providing the highest quality care through patient education, on-going clinician training, and personalized approach to treatment. We believe that everyone should live pain-free and healthy. But don’t take it from us, read what our patients have to say about their experience with Release Physical Therapy.
Our Physical Therapists
Release Physical Therapy staffs the top physical therapists in Washington, DC. Our experienced and highly trained physical therapists specialize in treating the outpatient orthopedic population, including sports therapy, chronic pain management, orthopedic/spinal therapy, pre/post-surgical therapy, as well as wellness and prevention. Our PTs utilize a wide range of therapies and technologies to deliver a personalized care plan. All of our physical therapists are accepting new patients.
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Dr. Cari Simon PT, DPT, CMTPT, ART
Owner & Physical Therapist, Release Physical Therapy Washington, D.C.
Dr. Cari Simon received her Doctorate degree in Physical Therapy from the University of Hartford. A former All-New England and All-State soccer player, she was part of the U.S. Women’s Soccer National Team pool, but ultimately decided to redirect her career in pursuit of her true passion: care. She is now one of the top physical therapists in Washington, DC. As one of the most highly regarded physical therapists in Washington, DC, Dr. Cari Simon’s treatment approach combines manual mobilization and manipulation techniques with individualized therapeutic exercise. She is a full body Active Release Technique (ART) provider. Additionally, Dr. Simon utilizes McConnell, athletic, and Kinesio Taping methods, as well as Trigger Point Dry Needle Therapy. When she is not helping her patients meet their physical goals, Dr. Simon enjoys networking with other physical therapists in Washington, DC, outdoor activities and spending time with her family.
Ethan Gramstad PT, DPT, CMTPT
Physical Therapist, Release Physical Therapy Washington, D.C.
Dr. Ethan Gramstad is the newest addition to the staff at Release Physical Therapy. A native of Virginia, he has recently relocated to Washington, DC following the last two years of practicing PT in Denver, Colorado. He received his Bachelor’s degree from the University of Virginia where he was a member of the UVA Men’s Rowing team for three years. It was that experience that ignited his interest in the science of exercise, as well as physiology and anatomy. He went on to obtain his Doctorate of Physical Therapy from Old Dominion University from Norfolk, Virginia in 2017.
Dr. Gramstad uses manual therapy and mobilization techniques to obtain optimal patient outcomes and places a high priority on establishing a strong patient-therapist relationship. He focuses on assisting his patients in meeting their physical goals and finds satisfaction in the application of individualized exercise programs, as well as dry needling to achieve success. He has previous experience in providing pre and post-operative therapy protocols and treating the outpatient orthopedic population. Besides his rowing days, Dr. Gramstad has personally participated in endurance sports; running Cross Country and multiple marathons and continues to maintain a devotion to a rigorous gym regimen.
Dr. Stephanie Lam PT, DPT, CMTPT
Physical Therapist, Release Physical Therapy Washington, D.C.
Dr. Stephanie Lam received her Doctorate of Physical Therapy from the School of Health Technology and Management at Stony Brook University, after attaining dual degrees in Biology and Psychology from the University of Virginia. She is highly experienced in several fields of adult orthopedics, including post-surgical recovery, acute sports injury rehabilitation, athletic performance improvement, and chronic pain management. She also has a passion for pediatrics and has treated kids of all ages for congenital and developmental issues.
Dr. Lam uses her patient’s individual goals to guide treatment, addressing her patient’s symptomatic impairments while considering their day-to-day ability to function and perform athletic and recreational activities. Dr. Lam incorporates manual therapy throughout her treatments, specializing in extensive deep soft tissue manipulation and mobilizations of the spine and peripheral joints, as well as dry needling.
Deborah Ajala PT, DPT, COMT, CMTPT
Physical Therapist, Release Physical Therapy Washington, D.C.
Dr. Deborah Ajala is an astute physical therapist who takes her time to get to know her patients in order to provide the best possible care. Dr. Ajala’s lifelong passion for caregiving led her to a career in physical therapy. She received a Bachelors degree in Health Sciences with a minor in Exercise Science and Wellness Management from the University of Sciences in Philadelphia, where she obtained a Doctorate in Physical Therapy thereafter. Dr. Ajala holds certifications in Orthopedic Manual Therapy (COMT) and Trigger Point Dry Needling (CMTPT). Her goal with each patient is to optimize their return to function.
Dr. Ajala previously worked at an Outpatient Physical Therapy Clinic in Maryland as a staff clinician. There, she served a diverse patient population treating a wide range of orthopedic conditions including sports medicine, pre/post operative rehabilitation, overuse injuries and several others.
In her free time, Dr. Ajala enjoys spending time with her family and friends, reading, and sports. She also enjoys exploring new DC neighborhoods and is a restaurant enthusiast.
Mia Smyser PT, DPT, COMT, CIDN
Physical Therapist, Pelvic Floor Therapist, Release Physical Therapy Tysons and Washington, D.C.
Dr. Mia Smyser is a native of the DMV. She received her Doctorate in Physical Therapy from the University of Miami, after receiving her Bachelors of Science in Exercise Science from the University of South Carolina. She thinks movement is of foundational importance and is dedicated to improving people’s mobility and function and helping them achieve their optimal physical well-being.
She is passionate about continuing to learn and grow in the profession. She is a Certified Orthopedic Manual Therapist (COMT), certified in Integrative Dry Needling and is continuing her coursework with Herman & Wallace as a pelvic health therapist.
Dr. Smyser previously worked at outpatient physical therapy clinics in Washington, DC and Falls Church, VA, treating a wide variety of conditions including sports medicine, pelvic health, pre/post-operative rehabilitation, and pediatrics, among others.
In her free time, she prioritizes spending time with her husband, son & dog; playing soccer and running; coaching HIIT and checking out new restaurants.
Release Physical Therapy Treatments
Our experienced physical therapists have advanced training in outpatient orthopedic physical therapy. Our physical therapy services include sports therapy, injury rehabilitation, pre-surgical therapy, post-surgical therapy, chronic pain management, as well as wellness and prevention. Specialized treatments at Release Physical Therapy include:
Shockwave Therapy
A non-invasive medical treatment that utilizes acoustic waves to treat various musculoskeletal conditions and promote healing.
K-Laser Therapy
The use of specific wavelengths of light to improve healing time, pain reduction, increase circulation and decrease swelling.
Dry Needling Washington DC
Needle treatment that decreases pain, increases range of motion and improves strength by inactivating myofascial trigger points.
Active Release Technique in Washington, D.C.
Massage and movement-based technique that treats problems with muscles, tendons, ligaments, fascia and nerves.
Therapeutic Medical Massage
Reduces muscular pain and inflammation, relaxes overused muscles, improves posture and movement awareness, and enhances performance.
BFR Training Washington DC
Rehabilitation therapy and performance training technique using a personalized tourniquet system to reduce atrophy and increase strength.
Kineseo® Taping Method
Reduces muscular pain and inflammation, relaxes overused muscles, improves posture and movement awareness, and enhances performance.
Running Assessment Washington DC
Individualized analysis designed to identify strength, gait, and alignment imbalances to prevent injury and improve your current training program.
Functional Training
Exercise regimens that integrate multiple muscle groups, joints and the brain to assist in everyday movement, physical activities and athletics.
Graston Technique
Instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization used to address soft tissue lesions and fascial restrictions resulting in improved patient outcomes.
Release Physical Therapy Services
At Release Physical Therapy, we treat you with our hands, not just machines. We offer a full range of manual therapies, as well as both traditional and non-traditional techniques for the best in comprehensive care. We work one-on-one with our patients to develop an individualized treatment plan that meets their unique needs, conditions, wellness goals and fitness levels.
Physical Therapy Treatment for Pelvic Floor Issues
At Release Physical Therapy, our experienced therapists conduct a thorough assessment to identify the underlying causes of your pelvic floor issues and create a personalized treatment plan to promote healing and alleviate the problems you’re experiencing.
Physical Therapy Treatment for Upper Back/Shoulder Pain
At Release Physical Therapy, our experienced therapists perform comprehensive assessments to see how they can help with your upper back pain. We then design individualized treatment plans aimed at promoting healing and relieving your specific issues.
Physical Therapy Treatment for Lower Back Pain
At Release Physical Therapy, our seasoned therapists perform comprehensive assessments to pinpoint the root causes of your lower back pain problems. We then design individualized treatment plans aimed at promoting healing and relieving your specific issues.
Physical Therapy Treatment for Knee Pain
At Release Physical Therapy, our seasoned therapists perform comprehensive assessments to pinpoint the root causes of your knee pain problems. We then design individualized treatment plans aimed at promoting healing and relieving your specific issues.
Physical Therapy Treatment for Ankle Pain
At Release Physical Therapy, our experienced therapists conduct thorough assessments to identify the underlying causes of your ankle discomfort. From there, we craft personalized treatment strategies tailored to foster healing and alleviate your unique concerns.
Physical Therapy Treatment for Tennis Elbow Pain
At Release Physical Therapy, our seasoned therapists perform comprehensive assessments to pinpoint the root causes of your tennis elbow pain problems. We then design individualized treatment plans aimed at promoting healing and relieving your specific issues.
Physical Therapy Treatment for Arthritis
At Release Physical Therapy, our expert therapists conduct thorough assessments to gain insight into your arthritis symptoms. With this understanding, we craft personalized treatment strategies aimed at promoting healing and addressing your unique requirements.
Release Physical Therapy Locations
Visit Release Physical Therapy at our flagship office in DC's West End, or our Downtown DC office located within Thesis Personal Training.
West End Location
2134 L St NW, Washington, DC 20037
DIRECTIONS
Hours
Mon – Thurs: 6:00am – 8:00pm
Fri: 6:00am – 5:00pm
Sat – Sun: Closed
Downtown Location
*Located within Thesis Personal Training
1401 New York Ave NW, #100, Washington, DC 20005
DIRECTIONS
Hours
Mon & Wed: 7:00am – 4:00pm
All Other Days: Closed
Now Accepting New Patients
Feel Your Very Best
Whether you’re an athlete that plays hard on the field, or a weekend warrior that plays hard in life, committing to a physical therapy program can help to keep you moving forward.
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