What are
/r/physicaltherapy's
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The most popular Products mentioned in /r/physicaltherapy:
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The most popular Services mentioned in /r/physicaltherapy:
Zygote Body
Anki
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freeCodeCamp
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Rosetta Stone
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Buzzsprout
Figma
Headspace
Acorns
craigslist
The most popular Android Apps mentioned in /r/physicaltherapy:
The most popular reviews in /r/physicaltherapy:
Acute Care Handbook for Physical Therapists https://www.amazon.com/dp/0323639194/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glc_fabc_qvi-FbRD645V1
This book is fairly comprehensive. If you’re looking for more ICU related acute care, I recommend courses by Chris Perme. She’s the gold standard on ICU care.
This book is fantastic and completely worth the money.
I also recommend the anatomy coloring books, and surprisingly, if you search Pinterest there are a lot of really nice charts and pics.
My clinic bought one of the cheap (~$100) tables on Amazon. It's surprisingly sturdy and easily folds up. Something like this.
The real question is does your wife really want to spend more time working on her elderly relatives? But if she's doing house calls I'm sure she'll be happy with it!
I am a PT and do photography as a hobby also. I think it partially depends on what he likes to photograph. He obviously is not going to be able to manage a tripod himself so would need someone with him to set it up. He could then trigger with phone or cable release/remote trigger. Something that may allow him to be more independent and shoot from wheelchair is something like this "ALZO Wheelchair Camera Mount".
These are certainly normal questions! I had a similar existential crisis in my MSK coursework, and could not square my 'science' hat and my 'PT' hat with some of the material they were teaching. Anything that was too dependent upon 'clinical wisdom' and not based on basic science/research was always really hard for my brain / way of thinking to hear.
​
I have some general book/philosopher recommendations that you might like that touch on some of the ideas you've brought up.
The Tyranny of Metrics - A very fascinating book that gets into how our modern society/economy is obsessed with metrics, what they can and cannot tell you about the system/field that you're working in. They have some healthcare/medicine examples, but certainly relevant when we talk about PT and our quantitative/qualitative outcome measures.
Nicholas Maxwell - a philosopher who argues that there's a fundamental problem with modern science, which he identifies as the divergence of science and philosophy that he suggests started during the Enlightenment.
I know you said you looked on Amazon. What I do when looking for a particular book that is pricey is put it in my Wish List. If the price comes down you'll get an email notification.
My daughter wanted an out of print book that was going for hundreds of dollars. One day it got reprinted and the price came down to $15. She found out with the notification.
A lot of books on Amazon are sold by re-sellers. If their books don't get sold at the higher price, they might want to move the inventory and mark it down.
You can also go to camel camel camel and price check there. That might help you get an idea of the price ranges. Not sure what you want to pay, but I quickly looked it up there and saw one for $31. Not sure what your budget is for the book.
Good luck!
It’s not much, but the app Headspace currently has their premium free for healthcare professionals. https://www.headspace.com/health-covid-19
I used it this morning and it helped a little. Hopefully the night time ones help me actually sleep tonight!
Because it is cheap and can accomodate any height. I suggest get an 40 dollar floor pedal that she can use pre and post op. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07XLP3WZK/ref=cm_sw_r_other_apa_glt_i_KK8M9DEKJZCWXJKCKH0Z
It's relatively cheap and does not take a lot of space. Once she has more range of motion upgrade to a better equipment.
I use the backpack they gave me which I like a lot. Stands up on its own and protects the laptop. Plenty of space for things. I know a lot of people like using the shoulder carry bag that rolls. I use one of those Amazon trunk organizers Fortem Car Trunk Organizer, Collapsible Storage, Non Slip Bottom, Securing Straps (Black) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01DIMTWCS/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glc_fabc_WEQ0FbPRCGYBE.
I keep my backpack in a separate regular plastic storage container. I also have a lot of extra bags for garbage and used gloves/gowns/etc. I have plastic zip bags for covid rooms. Easy to access hand sanitizer.
I have low key looking Merrell hiking shoes I use when it’s rainy or snowy. I live in the Midwest. I usually just wear normal Nike shoes. As a PT we don’t run into that much fluid or stuff. But I’ve been considering buying a pair of professional water resistant black shoes too but that’s more bc I work a few days a month in the hospital too.
Recently purchase this model. Not gonna lie, these tables are kinda heavy for traveling but this model is sturdy.
EARTHLITE Portable Massage Table HARMONY DX – Foldable Physiotherapy/Treatment/Stretching Table, Eco-Friendly Design, Hard Maple, Superior Comfort incl. Face Cradle & Carry Case (30" x 73") https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00122GAJK/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_fabt1_rFnUFbPZR4YAA
Musculoskeletal Anatomy Flashcards https://www.amazon.com/dp/0323057225/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_.HcZCbYTT1WCF
I used these physical flash cards but I'm sure most found on Amazon would work. More about the daily process of going through material so it gets pretty ingrained into your memory.
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.theralogics.balance_test.
Free balance testing app comparing times to Normative data and providing interpretations of results. SLS tandem TUG BESS MCTSIB.
yes, it's true, but you're not guaranteed employment, so if you're hurt (no disability) sick (no PTO), take off a day for a trip/sanity/MD appointment etc., late, or if they just don't need you (you're first to go home and be cancelled as soon as they can because of the expense) then you're out that money.
No health savings account, or any of those, no disability insurance, no health insurance (so you'll have to budget what health insurance will cost at the very least) no life insurance, no 401K (meaning you lost out on all those tax benefits, and yes, you should be doing that even if you're paying off loans) and you'll also lose out on those matching funds which can be hundreds/thousands of dollars.
most successful people have spouses with insurance and work at several facilities to hedge against low census, but even then they can have slim times
best of both worlds is to have a full time job then work PRN/per diem on the side/weekends or evening work if you can find it at rehabs and SNF's
But I did it for awhile, spouse didn't have insurance though so by the time all was said and done it was less security for just a bit more money, I've made much more like I said, by working FT with per diem on the side, paid off my loans quickly that way (and by being frugal)
personal finance for dummies, I Will Teach You to be Rich, Boggle heads Guide to Investing, or anything Boggle Heads really (have goo website)
I treated someone with pretty mild peroneal Subluxation and had decent luck making something like this https://www.amazon.com/DonJoy-Performance-ANAFORM-PinPoint-Strap/dp/B01GD625OS/ref=asc_df_B01GD625OS/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=312277605345&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=7525722934315409751&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&... out of an ace wrap and having him use it during activity.
I watched a few YouTube videos on python and SQL then went through this program on freecodecamp before building a little portfolio of projects on github
I tend to like to recommend this one to patients: https://www.amazon.com/TENS-7000-Digital-Unit-Accessories/dp/B00NCRE4GO/
It's on the cheaper side and still has some decent settings that can be changed. It won't do everything the fancier ones can do but it's certainly cheaper.
This book is great.
Don’t be afraid to ask for help.
Safety first. I know it sounds cliche, but it’s so true.
Generally in acute the goal is to get the patient out of the hospital as soon as possible which is kind of the opposite of outpatient.
It’s actually nice to have the OP background. I only did acute. So when an OP issue presented itself on top of an IP issue it was challenging for me, always had to phone the OP friend!
The hospital is a horrible place to be. Be patient with everyone (staff and patients) even when it’s hard.
It’s such an underrated setting, imo!
A whitecoat clipboard- but make it physical therapy
WhiteCoat Clipboard - Teal - Physical Therapy Edition https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0145BO7FI/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_3TEMHX1MBKGM20K7NASC?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Upper Bounce Replacement Jumping Mats-Round Trampoline Frames with Hooks Using 3.5" Springs – Replacement Mat for Trampoline Workout-Gymnastics Jumping Mat-Supports Up to 220 lbs https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01411TNBA/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_i_MK8KXE747CPPZYN636WE
Yes, definitely! You may want to contact some OTs as well if you haven’t already, in my experience the fine motor goals lend really well to using toys. Here’s an example of a fine motor toy where the child would use their grasp to pinch a clip to help with strengthening the fingers and hands: VTech Clips 'n Colors Peacock. I’m sure OTs would love if the clips were of a different resistance to go from easy to hard.
Most PT goals for children with neurological disorders include walking, standing, stairs, balance- more large scale mobility, so I find using whatever toy that motivates a child to be most helpful- light up toys, dancing toys, bubbles, etc. I use stomp rockets to work on single leg balance. What I would love to see is if custom AFOs (ankle foot orthoses, otherwise known as leg braces), hand splints, or other lower extremity splints could be 3D printed, and if that would drive down the cost at all… that would be cool.
Many early childhood toys are made to be developmentally appropriate to facilitate age appropriate skills, and therefore can be used by children with disabilities that are at that developmental level. Before getting into pediatric PT and child development, to me toys just looked like toys. Now, I can point out the therapeutic uses of tons of common toys you can find in any toy aisle. What would make toys more accessible for people with disabilities would be a great question to ask the disabled community, or parents of children with disabilities. Many children lack the grip strength to hold certain toys, or may benefit from other accommodations to allow them to participate in card games, board games, and other fun activities.
I use BeefText as my system-wide text expander. It might not be quite the same as what you're talking about, but you can set key words that auto expand into sentences or paragraphs. I give it bonus points for also being able to set it up as an autocorrect type of thing. So I can "expand" patinet to patient since I spell it wrong at least a dozen times a day.
To piggy ride off this.. this pillow I have is life changing and can adjust to whether you’re a side or back sleeper
Royal Therapy Queen Memory Foam Pillow, Pharmonis USA, Neck Pillow Bamboo Adjustable Side Sleeper Pillow for Neck & Shoulder, Support for Back, Stomach, Side Sleepers, Orthopedic Contour Pillow https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07KBVS54W/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_PTYP5CPNY85Q8RC153P9?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
This is the only pillow that has ever helped my neck pain. ZAMAT Adjustable Cervical Memory Foam Pillow, Odorless Neck Pillows for Pain Relief, Orthopedic Contour Pillows for Sleeping with Cooling Pillowcase, https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08ZD2JSWK/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apip_utL9iR4KpgQ7D
Target used to have a perfect one, this is the closest replacement I’ve found so far. NESTLOGIC Adjustable Memory Foam Pillow, Softness & Height Adjustable, Cervical Pillow for Neck Pain Relief, Cooling Gel Infused Pillow, Breathable 3D Structure, CertiPUR-US & Oeko-TEX Certified https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09B2QKB6S/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_B8T7EYB3AS2437B9KS0W?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I’m not a physical therapist but this pillow has done wonders for my neck and lower back as I’m normally a side sleeper. It basically allows me to sleep on my back with having the comfort of my head supported on the sides (which is why I like side sleeping).
YourFacePillow Beauty Pillow - Anti Wrinkle & Anti Aging Back Sleeping Pillow - Wrinkle Prevention Pillow to Sleep on Back - Memory Foam Beauty Sleep Pillow to Keep Head Straight (Standard) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B073Z3ZQRQ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_CNP3BTX7C75MHK5WBDQE?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
CAMRY Digital Hand Dynamometer Grip Strength Measurement Meter Auto Capturing Electronic Hand Grip Power 198 Lbs / 90 Kgs https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00A8K4L84/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_QK8DMYBTHW3V52SQH3CH?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
So far so good for us!
Just saw this on groupon: https://www.groupon.com/deals/n-advanced-medical-certification-online-basic-life-support?p=27&utm_medium=email&t_division=atlanta&date=20200511&uu=6929f3fe-3055-11e9-9080-0242ac110002&tx=0&s=body&c=image&d=deal-page&z=skip&sid=ebs2980424305sbe&utm_campaign=200014&mediaId=11001&utm_source=GPN I know alot of home health agencies won't accept online BLS but I'm wondering if OP etc would.
when you do end up studying anatomy go to https://apps.ankiweb.net/ and make a huge compiled OIA deck. It is a spaced repetition software, it will improve your comprehension by light years compared to your classmates.
That still beats the pants off surgery!
Have you heard of BPC-157 and TB-500? They're two peptides that seem to have some pretty noteworthy soft tissue healing effects. BPC-157 is found in high concentrations in the stomach and I have a theory there might be some when platelets are cracked open for PRP (amongst many other growth factors). In one rat study it regrew a rat achilles tendon to the bone with no fixation! In contrast, a similar rat study with PRP showed no difference after week 2. I'd love to hear a prolo/prp doc's thoughts on it, I'm curious if they're aware of it or what they think of the research. Maybe you could ask the prolo doc you shadow with?
Something I'm actually wondering is if dry needling a ligament followed by BPC-157 could rival or even beat PRP for a fraction of the cost and is one of the reasons I'm curious if dry needling ligaments is actually something a PT would do.
This clipboard has a lot of great info handy
WhiteCoat Clipboard - Blackout - Physical Therapy Edition https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0147FGCZU/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_i_5KY8KN9QMX40QF7GCYYW?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Cram Session in Goniometry and Manual Muscle Testing by Van Ost was what we used during my schooling and I have found it to be quite helpful when I am unsure on something
I love the idea of a new bag of some sort.
A book that I have gifted to multiple students and still use multiple times a week is Ortho Notes. It’s small and spiral bound, perfect for a desk drawer or scrub/lab coat pocket.
Another similar thing would be an anatomy app for her phone/tablet. I have one called Essential Anatomy, but I’m sure others may recommend other options.
Hey Tyler! This is how you upload your deck! It would be WONDERFUL if you can share yours with me/us!! :D
https://apps.ankiweb.net/docs/manual.html#sharing-decks-publicly
Explain Pain (8311) https://www.amazon.com/dp/0987342665/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_HBWAPJ1GNHC152TPWFP0
This book is amazing. The kindle version is poorly done though. I have to blow it up on my computer screen to read it.
https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/BHPW97C
I'm doing a project for school and have a quick 4 question survey if you want to give your opinions! It's super quick, it doesn't even make you sign in. Thanks!
By far the most comfortable and professional ones I’ve bought and used are the Underarmor golf pants.
Able to do a full ass to grass squat, lunges, etc with no issues. A bit pricey but they are totally worth it
> No, there will not. It's not normal nor is it healthy for an economy to literally have two recessions in a 12 year period.
Not true. https://www.acorns.com/money-basics/the-economy/how-long-do-downturns-last/
Look I’m not going to argue with you. I hope you’re wrong.
You’re an SPT hopefully you’re not graduating in May. Best of luck.
I also have utilized the sleeper stretch quite a bit and have found it to be useful in improving IR ROM. I think the biggest difference here is the systematic approach of MDT for the extremities. For example, in a typical PT approach to treating someone with a tight posterior capsule, a sleeper stretch is an appropriate option (along with other exercises fitting for the patient) that is probably being prescribed 1-2 times a day. for sure, the patient may improve ROM over time. In MDT for the shoulder, patients are classified into systems based on how they present. If a patient has been classified in MDT terms as having a "shoulder derangement". They will fit one of 3 shoulder patterns. In the case of this video, the patient fit pattern 2, which includes no loss of extension or internal rotation, and a painful loss of flexion/abduction. Based on this presentation, the appropriate intervention is repeated horizontal Adduction. It is very typical to see this kind of rapid resolution of symptoms, which is maintained if the patient performs this motion 10 times every 2 hours for however many days it takes for symptoms to fully resolve. At that point, the motion can be done less often, and research shows that a recurrence of symptoms is not likely if the patient performs their repeated movement 10 times, twice a day. The biggest difference here is the repetition. I would never tell someone to perform a sleeper stretch 10 times every one or two hours. But following the MDT system for the shoulder is very specific and effective. For more information on the other shoulder patterns, watch this presentation: https://prezi.com/jpmzt3jj8c_d/shoulder-pain/?utm_campaign=share&utm_medium=copy
As a pta, I’ve found this “Ortho Notes” to be helpful, both for myself to remembering special tests, anatomy, etc. it’s also helpful for showing stuff to patients. It’s just a little flip book, so it’s easy to carry in a pocket or bag
Ortho Notes: Clinical Examination Pocket Guide https://www.amazon.com/dp/0803666578/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_GCKE1H0TFKVFHG4V0VVJ
No significant instability at the AC joint (instability might have been the wrong term to use). I guess I’m talking about the natural movement of the joint, by assessing the mechanics of the injury I’m assuming the distal clavicle is eroding due to the repetitive movements. (I am not well versed in regards to osteolysis).
Any pressure down on the ac joint or distal clavicle is painful. They typically have pain with lifting <10lbs above shoulder height or with extended arms. Normal PROM and normal AROM with minimal discomfort past 90 degrees. Pain is not limiting function or work tasks even though work is physical labor with lifting/carrying/moving 50+ lbs.
I’m curious if something like this brace would provide some increase in stability of the ac joint during work? https://www.amazon.com/dp/B079ZJJLVY/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_KQY1KM22CJJNDQAEQW5H
I’m just at a loss because I know it needs time to heal and unfortunately it’s viewed more like a sprained joint but I understand it being similar to a broken bone (correct me if I’m wrong).
This book goes into the details of each personality category and suggests occupations that are suited to your temperament; it was remarkably accurate, for mine:
https://www.amazon.com/Please-Understand-Temperament-Character-Intelligence/dp/1885705026
>Robin McKenzie - The Cervical and Thoracic Spine
For your second recommendation is it this one? https://www.amazon.com/Cervical-Thoracic-Spine-Mechanical-Diagnosis/dp/095977467X/ref=sr\_1\_1?dchild=1&keywords=Robin+McKenzie+-+The+Cervical+and+Thoracic+Spine&qid=1633311961&s=digital-text&sr=1-1
There is an estim unit that you can get on Amazon that works great (https://www.amazon.com/Balego-Digital-Neuromuscular-Stimulator-MT100I/dp/B07CVGN7MC) and there are probes you can have the patient order (https://www.amazon.com/Exercise-Pelvic-Electrical-Stimulation-Incontinence/dp/B0768VFV5D)
This option is nice because you can have the patient order both the unit and the probe and train them to use it on their own for greater self efficacy.
Because they gave her a front wheeled walker, stick with a front wheeled walker, it was likely on purpose. You can find them at any big box store but they're all aluminum and folding because it's light weight and portable. What exactly do you want to upgrade? If you're worried about functionality Amazon sells walker accessories, if you're worried about looks they come in different colors.
Thanks so much for your reply, that's very helpful! It seems a number of people found the practice was harder. Is the TherapyEd based on the O'sullivan textbook seen here?
Concise Book of Muscles (Use it for pt education and self refresh, super simple diagrams and explanations and cheap to boot) https://www.amazon.com/Concise-Book-Muscles-Third/dp/1623170206
Lots of podcasts. I think there have been several threads on podcasts to listen to in this sub. Easy to listen to on your rides to/from work.
What our school recommended for our acute care content.
https://www.amazon.com/Acute-Care-Handbook-Physical-Therapists/dp/1455728969
I dont think its a god present but I have this one, its easier to height adjust that the wooden one I used to have
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07WZC44SQ/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
From your reply it is clear that you haven't even had the foundational physics or kinesiology to explain what is going on. I recommend getting a textbook and just working through it from there. Something like https://www.amazon.com/dp/0803643721/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_fabt1_edtUFbK3ZTFH9 but really any biomechanics book will get you there.
I love these ones from barco! They almost have a dry fit material so its very good with ventilation. Has a nice stretch but runs a little big so I would go one size down! BARCO One 5105 Women's V-Neck Scrub Top Steel S https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0757WR271/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_fDhoFbKAGF4PF
I bought this table off amazon right before we went all online and it has served me very well for practicing manual skills at home. Only $90 too.
Edit: sorry, didn’t read the part where you said you do not want wood. This one has wood legs. Super sturdy though, and still adjustable. It’s also pretty light, which makes transporting it super easy.
I use this and I have noticed no difference compared to brand name. No skin reactions, good adhesive etc. Therapist’s Choice® Kinesiology... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B008DKE28U?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
Think of keeping your head level and torso in the same horizontal plane as your legs do most of the movement. Instead of moving your body forward over the land, think of the land moving underneath your body. I'll edit with a book reference that may help. Awakening Somatic Intelligence: The Art and Practice of Embodied Mindfulness https://www.amazon.com/dp/1583944176/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_TqBACbAZYQCD3
Goniometer, pulse oximeter, gait belt, name tag holder, quick study sheets with clipboard.
I personally like this-but it might not be for everyone: Physical Therapy Bangle Stainless Steel Adjustable Wire Bracelet Graduation Jewelry Gift for Women https://www.amazon.com/dp/B074PWD6Q5/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_EpozBb340DBE4
Tom Ockler does some great MET work. I got some videos off Amazon that were helpful. Muscle Energy Techniques Medical Massage Video 2 DVD Set - Volume 1 Pelvis Sacrum & Lumbar Back, Volume 2 Cervical Neck, Thoracic Spine & Ribs https://www.amazon.com/dp/B005EBOSO4/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_2-jHBbZQNM0MD
Travel PT is the best way you can start your career as others have already mentioned.
As a new grad you are going to get lower offers right out of school due to a lack of experience. If you go into travel PT you will be able to easily have a net income of 80k/year. Most new grads will get general offers closer to 70k gross (~50k after taxes). This is huge!
One of the best things you can do is travel for ~2 years and skip the lower salaries you will be offered. This gives you ample opportunity to save, invest, or get rid of your student loans. After that if you want to go perm you will have greater experience and will be able to negotiate a higher salary!
Hi, Thank you so much for writing, It is certainly encouraging to hear from a professional that I do not imagine this madness :)
he did these tests but in a much more aggressive way than on the videos on YouTube, especially on the Clarke’s test :( but before these tests he made a test of very strong deep pressure when the foot is straight without asking me to use some muscles ... just a very strong pressure ... (with two thumbs, like he try to get very deep........ mostly above and below the patella ... and also holding the leg in the shinbone and pushing hard (for a few seconds... maybe 3) the knee from the side towards the center of the body ...
I am almost five days after the examination, I walked and I stood today (not a day work - only studies and public transportation) and there is an improvement but there is still a burning sensation in the knees and unpleasant pain, In areas I have never experienced pain in my knee ...
I still did not talked to the clinic supervisor but I certainly will not go to him anymore and I learned the lesson - to be very suspicious, it's hard with a profession that I admire ... but what can I do ...
gonna try this book
As long as you are not having other underlying serious issues ruled out by imaging/symptoms - like bowel/bladder/incontinence/bilateral leg or arm weakness/tingling/numbness - then PT is generally helpful. I would recommend finding a PT with some background with McKenzie background - just ask the front desk when you schedule.
This book is also a very good option - https://www.amazon.com/Treat-Your-Back-Robin-McKenzie/dp/0987650408/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1519450256&sr=8-1&keywords=treat+your+own+back.
From the looks of the brace it looks like your wrist can still move into flexion or extension depending on what your doing, but I wouldn't really know because I've never seen a brace like that. Ideally you want your wrist to be closer to a neutral position so that the tendons and nerve can have adequate space to move through the carpal tunnel which can be difficult when you're typing all day.
My wife works on a computer all day and I got her a brace like the one below because i thought it would be able to hold her wrist in a more neutral position while she was typing because it crossed the wrist joint.
Boilerplate message: go see a qualified medical professional.
But if you're looking for general recommendations, you might check out this book by Stuart McGill (one of the world's top authorities in low back pain):
https://www.amazon.com/Ultimate-Fitness-Performance-Stuart-McGill/dp/0973501804
I haven't read the above book, just the predecessor called Low Back Disorders. Low Back Disorders is more about rehab for non-athletes, and the above book is more about folks who expose themselves to higher loads (not the typical person who walks through the door of my clinic). Reading McGill changed the way that I work with patients with low back pain, and after applying his framework to myself, I've been able to realize improvement in my own low-grade nagging back ache.
Sidepoint: You probably don't need rest, massage, and chiropractic. Sensible activity modification and appropriate progressive exercise are more likely to help your back. But as they say, YMMV.
Yes. My PT has started addressing a similar imbalance with me. Look into the fascial muscle slings involved in athletic movements. Especially the spiral sling. There's also the anterior oblique sling and the posterior sling. The concepts were first noted by Janda. My PT recommended this book: http://www.amazon.com/Assessment-Treatment-Muscle-Imbalance-Approach/dp/0736074007
For the last session, we took this looped strap (kind of looks like a seatbelt), wound it around my body, and attached it to a cable machine with ~70 pounds of weight, so that it was applying torsional force to 1 side of my body. Then we did a few different movements: squats, lunges, side plank. In the squats we focused on really driving through with the hip that had the weight pulling against it. We also did fast 1/4 squats, as if to get a pump going. We trained in a 2:1 ratio the weak to strong side. It felt dead-on in addressing the weakest part of my squat.
Hope that helps/makes sense.
Edit: found a video that my PT made using the strap. He used it when he helped train the national Chinese olympic track & field team this past summer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z8qF7Vx65Ag&feature=youtu.be
I think /u/HugePens is on the money when he suggests to keep it simple first. Lowering the weight and having some awareness of the compensatory pattern should be the first action and could be sufficient enough. However I've been working closely with a physical therapist and a trainer for about ~20 months now and I think dialing it up to this level of isolation is warranted.
http://www.physio-pedia.com/Clinical_Prediction_Rules
I'm sure physiopedia is typically pretty up to date. I also have this in eBook format but I think it's from 2009. Let me know if you are interested. http://www.amazon.com/Clinical-Prediction-Rules-Contemporary-Rehabilitation/dp/0763775185
That's the one I got, I had a slightly bigger bag before that but it was uncomfortable and had too much velcro. I carry about the same amount of stuff as you do and sometimes I throw in some ankle weights. I think i paid $70 but it's worth it.
They make a product called Hot Hands - it's a hand warmer that is a packet filled with powder that activates and generates heat when exposed to air. It's made for camping in cold places. Pick some up at the store or on Amazon and keep them in your pocket. They last a few hours.
You may not want to get 40 pairs right away, but here's a link
HotHands Hand Warmers (40 pairs) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0007ZF4OA/ref=cm_sw_r_awd_4oXLvbPB04PPP