[quote]TrevorLPT wrote:
While I am not/ can not diagnosing you, what you describe sounds very, very, VERY much like a common pattern of asymmetry known as a Left AIC – or possibly a Left AIC/ Right BC – which can be identified and treated by physical therapists who are certified by the Postural Restoration Institute.
Without getting into too much detail, essentially what happens with a Left AIC pattern is that the left half of the pelvis becomes anteriorly tilted, abducted, and rightwardly rotated due to changes that have occurred to the length-tension relationship of a variety of muscles across the hip and knee. This can lead to changes in trunk orientation and issues at the scapula and shoulder. Literally every symptom you describe is a symptom of this pattern.
Identification of this/ these patterns requires a series of assessments that can be performed in a single visit. Treatment is typically centered around non-manual techniques that place an emphasis on respiratory mechanics and the nervous system in order to inhibit and facilitate the proper muscles in the proper order. Full resolution can take between 5 and 15 visits with a physical therapist, spaced 1-3 weeks apart. You’d be responsible for completing the prescribed exercises 1-3 x daily for the duration of treatment. That said, most people can expect partial resolution of their symptoms or at least changes in their mobility and movement after the first visit.
You can search for a Postural Restoration Institute Certified physical therapist on the Postural Restoration Institute website, or I can refer you to a therapist near you if you tell me your location. I can not emphasize strongly enough that you require a PRI Certified therapist. Other therapists and healthcare professionals are unlikely to be able to provide you with anything more than partial and temporary relief of these symptoms. [/quote]
Thank you very much for the thoughtful and constructive reply! I have done a bit of research just with google and am surprised how much of the literature overlaps with the things I have been experiencing.
I am also somewhat surprised/frustrated that none of the past doctors I have seen had even brought up the idea or concept before. I have already spent a lot of money up to this point but I found a couple practitioners in my area (based in the UK currently) and am looking to schedule a consultation if it ends up leading to a solution.
In the meantime is there any thing (stretches, movements) I can start doing today to improve my condition given the information above? (while still being able to exercise) Or should I put off everything until I see a PRI doctor first?
And yes, ultimately I understand you are not diagnosing or treating anything, I am looking for advice and direction under my own will and never would have gotten the Left AIC idea if I didn’t ask. So I still think it is valuable to post the information here in the meantime.
Also I will note a couple more observations in regards to my feet. When I lay down flat on the floor and extend both legs my left leg definitely twists outward and my left foot twists in such a way that the outside of the foot extends down and the inside of the foot pulls up into the leg. When I try and flatten my foot again my left knee wants to cave into the right leg. Looking at my foot at the back it’s like the left side is elevated 30 degrees.
Also looking at my shoes my right side is worn out more than my left. I am guessing because I place more weight on my right side.
Again, just adding more information just in case this helps anyone else.