Category Archives: Blog

What Does It Really Mean to Have Prediabetes?

June 9, 2016 Teresa Stockton - Blog, General Information

Type 2 diabetes usually occurs as a result of genetics and lifestyle. It is marked by abnormally high levels of blood sugar, known as glucose. Glucose is the primary source of energy for our cells that the body makes from food we ingest. The onset of type 2 diabetes is triggered when the body is no longer able to properly use insulin, the hormone that helps cells take in glucose from the blood. When glucose stays in the blood stream instead of moving into the cells, nerves and blood vessels can be damaged. This increases the risk of cardiovascular disease, stroke, blindness, kidney disease, and circulation problems.

What Is Prediabetes?
Prediabetes is a condition that precedes the onset of type 2 diabetes. It is characterized by blood glucose levels that are elevated, though not high enough to be classified as diabetes. Doctors usually refer to prediabetes as impaired glucose tolerance or impaired fasting glucose. The American Diabetes Association (ADA) recommends screening for all adults 45 years old and older. Also, if you are younger than 45 and are overweight or obese and have risk factors for diabetes, you should be screened. Risk factors include:
• Family history of diabetes
• Having hypertension, high cholesterol, or high triglycerides
• Sedentary lifestyle
• History of gestational diabetes or giving birth to a baby weighing more than 9 pounds (4 kilograms)
• History of cardiovascular disease
• Having a condition associated with insulin resistance, such as polycystic ovary syndrome or metabolic syndrome

People of Hispanic American, Asian American, Pacific Islander, Native American, or African American descent are at higher risk.
Having prediabetes means that you are at high risk for developing diabetes and may already be experiencing adverse effects of elevated blood sugar levels.

How Do You Know If You Have Prediabetes?
During a routine office visit, your doctor can order tests, such as:
• Fasting plasma glucose test—For this test, you fast overnight and have your blood glucose measured in the morning before eating. Results in the range of 100-125 mg/dL (5.6-6.9 mmol/L) may indicate prediabetes.
• Oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT)—Again, you fast overnight and have your blood glucose measured after the fast. Then, you consume a sugary drink and have your blood glucose measured two hours later. Results in the range of 140-199 mg/dL (7.8-11 mmol/L) indicate prediabetes.
• Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c)—This is an indicator of your average blood sugar levels over the previous three months. Results in the range of 5.7%-6.4% indicate prediabetes.

What Can You Do If You Have Prediabetes?
If you are diagnosed with prediabetes, it is important to take action to manage your condition. If you are overweight, your doctor may recommend that you lose weight. Reducing your body weight, even by 5%-10% can help improve your health. In general, changing your diet and being physically active and exercising at least 30 minutes a day will help you stay on track. Participating in a behavioral modification program may further help you achieve your weight loss goals.

Because many of the lifestyle-related risk factors associated with diabetes are also risk factors for other health issues, making lifestyle changes to reduce your risk of diabetes may have a positive effect on your overall health.

Some people can take medication to manage their blood glucose levels, though lifestyle modification should be the first approach to manage prediabetes. Medications that may be used include metformin, pioglitazone, and acarbose.

How Can You Prevent Prediabetes?
The same strategies that are used to lower your risk of type 2 diabetes can be applied to prediabetes, as well. The American Diabetes Association (ADA) recommends these strategies:
• Lose excess weight.
• Exercise for at least 150 minutes per week.
• Reduce your intake of calories and fat.
• Try to eat more fiber and whole grains.

If you do have prediabetes, you can take steps that may slow or avoid the progression to type 2 diabetes. It will take a lot of effort on your part, but the potential benefits—being healthy and living longer—are worth it.

by Julie J. Martin, MS

RESOURCES:
American Diabetes Association
http://www.diabetes.org

National Diabetes Education Program
http://www.ndep.nih.gov

CANADIAN RESOURCES:
Canadian Diabetes Association
http://www.diabetes.ca

The College of Family Physicians of Canada
http://www.cfpc.ca

REFERENCES:
Am I at risk for type 2 diabetes? Taking steps to lower the risk of getting diabetes. National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse website. Available at: http://diabetes.niddk.nih.gov/dm/pubs/riskfortype2/risk.pdf. Published June 2012. Accessed April 26, 2016.

American Diabetes Association and National Institute of Diabetes, Digestive and Kidney Diseases. The prevention or delay of type 2 diabetes. Diabetes Care 2002;25:1-8.

Diabetes Prevention Program Research Group. Reduction in the incidence of type 2 diabetes with lifestyle intervention or Metformin. NEJM. 2002;346:393-403.

Diabetes mellitus type 2 prevention. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: http://www.ebscohost.com/dynamed. Updated February 22, 2016. Accessed April 26, 2016.

Diagnosing diabetes and learning about prediabetes. American Diabetes Association website. Available at: http://www.diabetes.org/are-you-at-risk/prediabetes. Updated December 9, 2014. Accessed April 26, 2016.

Kanaya AM, Narayan KM. Prevention of type 2 diabetes: Data from recent trials. Primary Care. 2003;30:511-526.

Narayan K, Imperatore G. Targeting people with prediabetes. British Medical Journal. 2002;325:403-404.

Nathan DM. Diabetes Care. 2007;30:753.

Prediabetes. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: http://www.ebscohost.com/dynamed. Updated April 22, 2016. Accessed April 26, 2016.

Tuomilehto J, Lindstorm J. Prevention of type 2 diabetes mellitus by changes in lifestyle among subjects with impaired glucose tolerance. N Engl J Med. 2004;344:1343-1350.

10/21/2008 DynaMed’s Systematic Literature Surveillance: http://www.ebscohost.com/dynamed: Greaves CJ, Middlebrooke A, O’Loughlin L, et al. Motivational interviewing for modifying diabetes risk: a randomised controlled trial. Br J Gen Pract. 2008;58:535-540.

10/12/2009 DynaMed Systematic Literature Surveillance http://www.ebscohost.com/dynamed: Crandall JP, Polsky S, Howard AA, et al. Alcohol consumption and diabetes risk in the Diabetes Prevention Program. Am J Clin Nutr. 2009;90:595-601.

2/15/2010 DynaMed’s Systematic Literature Surveillance http://www.ebscohost.com/dynamed: American Diabetes Association. Standards of medical care in diabetes—2010. Diabetes Care. 2010;33(suppl 1:S11-S61).

2/15/2010 DynaMed’s Systematic Literature Surveillance http://www.ebscohost.com/dynamed: American Diabetes Association. Diagnosis and classification of diabetes mellitus. Diabetes Care. 2010;33(suppl 1:S62-S69).

Last reviewed April 2016 by Michael Woods, MD Last Updated: 6/3/014

EBSCO Information Services is fully accredited by URAC. URAC is an independent, nonprofit health care accrediting organization dedicated to promoting health care quality through accreditation, certification and commendation.

What Should I Tell My Physical Therapist?

June 7, 2016 Teresa Stockton - Blog, General Information

If you have never been to a physical therapist before you may have some questions about your care and expectations. Here are some general questions and points about physical therapy you may want to talk about during your initial evaluation.

Talk about the pain you are experiencing.
Go into detail about what sort of activities you have trouble with and where the pain is coming from. The more details you can provide the more it will help your therapist develop a treatment plan.

How did your injury happen and/or when did your pain begin?
Did you have an injury or accident, or did the pain develop gradually over an extended period of time? Whether it’s sports, work or surgical post-op related your PT can guide you to recovery following an injury. As part of physical therapy, they can teach you exercises, stretches, and techniques using specialized equipment to address your pain.

What are your recovery goals?
If you have specific goals in relation to your recovery, let your therapist know. Do you want to be able to run a marathon, or is the goal to cook dinner and be able to reach up into your cabinets? Maybe your goal is to have enough strength to play with the grand kids. Your Physical Therapist needs this information when designing a treatment plan that best suits your needs. Whether you’re a professional athlete who’s suffered an injury or an orthopedic patient who needs assistance following surgery, your recovery starts with physical therapy.

Give your physical therapist you primary care provider’s information.
Good communication between your physical therapist and your primary care provider can help eliminate the need for unnecessary drugs/medications and provide great detail about your medical history. Your physical therapist can help clarify referral guidelines and the decision-making process as well.

Tell your physical therapist about any medications you are currently taking.
Different medications can cause adverse side effects due to physical activity and your physical therapist wants to make sure you are ready for physical therapy. Make sure you have a detailed list of your medications and be ready to discuss them at your evaluation.

Always tell your physical therapist your pain levels and how you feel your progress is going.
Physical Therapy is intended to make changes in your body. As physical therapists make changes to your tissues and mechanics, the stresses on your body will change, and may change where you feel the pain or symptoms. Be open with your physical therapist. If you have any questions about your treatment or want to go over any pain you are experiencing let your physical therapist know and they can go over it with you. Chances are what you are experiencing is completely normal and part of the healing process.

For more information about physical therapy programs and treatment techniques visit our About Physical Therapy section by clicking here.

Need to find a physical therapist? Visit our Find A PT Page

Can Physical Therapy Help Kids with Arthritis?

May 26, 2016 Teresa Stockton - Blog, Pediatrics

Did you know that physical therapy can help kids with arthritis? Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis (JRA), also called Stills disease, is the most common form of arthritis seen in children and young adults.Children commonly complain of joint pain and stiffness, along with an occasional fever.

JRA can impact fine movements and overall mobility if left untreated. While medical therapy is the mainstay of treatment, physical therapy and rehabilitation are essential to restoring full movement and quality of life.

How does physical therapy help?
Physical therapists are trained experts at delivering a variety of treatments to help reduce pain and improve joint movement. A child experiencing pain and dysfunction can feel isolated and left out, unable to participate in group activities with other children. A physical therapist can help the child to improve muscle tone, strength and reduce joint inflammation. This helps children regain the quality of life they deserve; allowing them to live with less pain and enjoy the benefits of unrestricted movement.

This information was written by Oregon Spine and Physical Therapy, a physical therapy group located in Eugene, Oregon. At Oregon Spine & Physical Therapy, your care begins with a comprehensive evaluation of your condition by your physical therapist. This initial assessment will allow the physical therapist to accurately reach a diagnosis and then prepare your appropriate, personal treatment plan. For more information click here.

June 2016 Events

May 24, 2016 Teresa Stockton - Blog, Events

Check out our Physical Therapy Monthly Events Calendar! Focusing on events from PTandMe.com participating physical and occupational therapy clinics. Read more to find out what’s happening in your community in June 2016!

CALIFORNIA PHYSICAL THERAPY EVENTS

ANAHEIM, CA
DATE: June 21st-23rd, 2016
CMSA’S 26th Annual Conference and Expo
CLINIC: FIT2WRK – Booth 312
Fit2wrk will be in attendance at the 2016 CMSA Conference in Anaheim, CA. Fit2wrk provides an integrated approach to ensuring overall client satisfaction. Our industrial specialists can review your own needs and co-develop programs designed to expedite return to work as well as positively impact future injury costs. For more info on Fit2wrk go to www.fit2wrk.com.

GEORGIA PHYSICAL THERAPY EVENTS

ATLANTA, GA
DATE: June 12th, 2016
Hotlanta Half Marathon
CLINIC: Atlanta Falcons Physical Therapy Centers – Atlanta
Atlanta Falcons Physical Therapy Centers is a proud sponsor of the Hotlanta Half Marathon for 2016. They look forward to seeing you there. To register for the run go to www.hotlantahalf.com. More information about Atlanta Falcons Physical Therapy Centers can be found at www.atlantafalconsptc.com.

GREENSBORO, GA
DATE: June 13th, 2016 6:00PM
Introduction to Essential Oils (FREE)
CLINIC: Advance Rehabilitation Physical Therapy – Greensboro
Hosted by Advance Rehabilitation at Cowles Clinic to provide an educational seminar regarding alternative medicine using DoTerra Essential Oils. They will cover the basics of essentials oils, including how to choose a quality oil, how to use them safely, and which essential oils can be part of your daily routine. To register for this class call (706) 454-1394 or email: ajackson@advancerehab.com. For more information about Advance Physical Therapy in Greensboro click here.

MICHIGAN PHYSICAL THERAPY EVENTS

BYRON CENTER, MI
DATE: June 10th, 2016
Byron Center Athletic Boosters Alumni Golf Outing 1:00PM
CLINIC: The Center for Physical Rehabilitation
The Center for Physical Rehabilitation is a sponsor and is participating in the Golf Outing for Byron Center Athletic Boosters. The event is being held at Maple Hill Golf Course. To register to play go to http://byroncentersports.com/2016/02/01/2016-boosters-alumni-golf-outing-info/. For more info about The Center for Physical Rehabilitation go to www.pt-cpr.com.

COMSTOCK PARK, MI
DATE: June 25th, 2016 8:00AM
Football Golf Outing for Comstock Park Athletics
CLINIC: The Center for Physical Rehabilitation
The Center for Physical Rehabilitation is a sponsor and is participating in the Comstock Park Football Team’s annual Golf Outing. The event is being held at Scott Lake Country Club. For more information on the event go to http://comstockparkathletics.com/2016/04/12/cp-football-golf-outing/. For more info about The Center for Physical Rehabilitation go to www.pt-cpr.com.

GRAND RAPIDS, MI
DATE: June 2016
Clinic Opening – Downtown Grand Rapids
CLINIC: The Center for Physical Rehabilitation – Grand Rapids
The Center for Physical Rehabilitation has been providing all-inclusive physical therapy services, since 1994, at four convenient locations: Belmont, Byron Center, Cascade, Walker, and now at a fifth location in downtown Grand Rapids. For more information about The Center for Physical Rehabilitation go to www.pt-cpr.com.

GRAND RAPIDS, MI
DATE: June 13th-July 28th, 2016
Strength and Conditioning Program for Ages 11-14
CLINIC: The Center for Physical Rehabilitation – Grand Rapids
The Academy for Sports and Wellness is offering a Strength and Conditioning program to enhance Long term athletic development for athletes ages 11 to 14. This 6 week, program will help athletes build confidence as they learn the principals to proper weight lifting and the importance of strength training, in conjunction with overall fitness conditioning. For more information about The Center for Physical Rehabilitation go to www.pt-cpr.com.

SOUTHGATE, MI
DATE: June 20th, 2016 7:30PM
Building Better Runners Series (FREE)
CLINIC: Advanced Physical Therapy – Southgate
Advanced Physical Therapy is starting their Building Better Runner Series for 2016. Their first topic of discussion is Glute Activation for Runners presented June 20th in the clinic Southgate Clinic. Seating is limited, so call 734-284-6582 to reserve your spot. For more information about Advanced Physical Therapy you can find them online at www.advphysicaltherapy.com.

ST. CLAIR SHORES, MI
DATE: All Wednesdays in June – 6:30PM-7:00PM
Nautical Rides in St. Clair Shores
CLINIC: Advanced Physical Therapy – Greater Detroit
Advanced Physical Therapy is a sponsor for the 2016 Nautical Bike Rides that take place every Wednesday night in June. Advanced will be providing biking tips and other information for riders throughout the month. Join Advanced Physical Therapy on your bike as they ride through St. Clair Shores and have a great time! For more information about Advanced Physical Therapy go to www.advphysicaltherapy.com.

MISSOURI PHYSICAL THERAPY EVENTS

KANSAS CITY, MO
DATE: June 30th, 2016 3:00PM
Work Comp Panel Discussion
CLINIC: ARC Physical Therapy – Kansas City
ARC Physical Therapy+ is hosing a Work Comp Panel Discussion examine recent or anticipated changes in workers’ compensation. This discussion will take place at the Boulevard Brewery and will be an open forum for questions from attendees. For more info about ARC Physical Therapy+ visit them online at www.arcpt.com.

NEVADA PHYSICAL THERAPY EVENTS

SPARKS, NV
DATE: June 4th, 2016 10:00AM-2:00PM
UPS Health Fair
CLINIC: Custom Physical Therapy – Sparks
Custom Physical Therapy in Sparks, NV will be attending the UPS Health Fair on Saturday June 4th at 301 Vista Blvd. If you are attending stop by the Custom Physical Therapy table, meet the staff, and get lots of great information! For more information about Custom Physical Therapy visit them online at www.custom-pt.com.

NEW JERSEY PHYSICAL THERAPY EVENTS

ATLANTIC CITY, NJ
DATE: June 22nd-24th, 2016 10:00AM-2:00PM
17th Annual PA/NJ IARP Conference
CLINIC: Hamilton Physical Therapy – Hamilton
Hamilton Physical Therapy will be attending the 17th Annual PA/ NJ IARP Conference from June 22nd – 24th at the Tropicana Casino & Hotel in Atlantic City NJ. Geared towards Work Comp and Case Managers. Stop by the Hamilton Physical Therapy display, meet the staff, and get lots of great information! For more information about Hamilton Physical Therapy visit them at www.hamiltonphysicaltherapy.org.

HACKETTSTOWN, NJ
DATE: June 5th, 2016 10:00AM-2:00PM
5K Walk/Run for the Thomas R. Kitchen Memorial Fund
CLINIC: Physical Therapy Plus – Hackettstown
Join Physical Therapy Plus, a sponsor in this year’s annual 5K Walk/Run for the Thomas R. Kitchen Memorial Fund – a fund raiser for scholarships for Hackettstown High School seniors and to raise awareness for Cholangiocarcinoma! The event is at Field of Dreams in Independence, NJ. For more info about Physical Therapy Plus visit them at www.ptplusnj.com.

OREGON PHYSICAL THERAPY EVENTS

ALOHA, OR
DATE: June 20th, 2016 10:30AM-6:00PM
Lewis & Clark PAC Golf Classic
CLINIC: North Lake Physical Therapy & Rehabilitation
North Lake Physical Therapy is Sponsoring the 24th Annual Lewis & Clark PAC Golf Classic at the The Reserve Vineyard & Golf Club in Aloha, OR. They can’t wait to see you on the links! To register for the tournament go to http://lcpioneers.com/information/PAC-HOF/2016golfclassic.pdf. For information about North Lake Physical Therapy visit them at: www.northlakept.com.

CLACKAMAS, OR
DATE: June 5th, 2016
My Best Day 5K
CLINIC: North Lake Physical Therapy & Rehabilitation – Clackamas
North Lake Physical Therapy is Sponsoring the My Best Day 5K supporting the Jake Arntson Memorial Fund in Clackamas, OR. Celebrating the memory of a boy that was a light to not only his family, but everyone that knew him. To register for the 5k go to https://www.signmeup.com/site/online-event-registration/112880. For information about North Lake Physical Therapy visit them at: www.northlakept.com.

LAKE OSWEGO, OR
DATE: June 2016
Fleet Feet Couch to 5K and 10K training programs
CLINIC: North Lake Physical Therapy & Rehabilitation – Lake Oswego
North Lake Physical Therapy is helping runners in the Fleet Feet Couch to 5K and 10K programs reach their goals. This 12 week program is a great way to pursue your walking and running goals. For more information on the Fleet Feet programs offered in Lake Oswego go to www.fleetfeetpdx.com/training. For information about North Lake Physical Therapy visit them at: www.northlakept.com.

TIGARD, OR
DATE: June 25th, 2016 6:30PM
Twilight Run
CLINIC: North Lake Physical Therapy & Rehabilitation – Tigard
North Lake Physical Therapy in Tigard is Tigard is sponsoring the Twilight Run supporting the Tigard-Tualatin Schools Foundation. he Foundation for Tigard Tualatin Schools is a non-profit organization that: Advocates for, and raises awareness about, the importance of strong schools in our community. To register for the twilight run go to http://twilightrun.the-ftts.org. For information about North Lake Physical Therapy visit them at: www.northlakept.com.

TENNESSEE PHYSICAL THERAPY EVENTS

LAWERENCEBERG, TN
DATE: June 16th, 2016, 12:00PM-1:30PM
Employer Outreach Luncheon
CLINIC: STAR Physical Therapy
The WEOC is an ongoing effort by the TN Department of Labor & Workforce Development to reach out to TN employers and provide valuable information to foster economic development and to promote our services. Topic for June: Sudden Violence-Surviving an Active Shooter. Please register online and confirm your attendance by Friday, June 24th by clicking on the following link: http://goo.gl/forms/TTD2EM1K3K.

LEXINGTON, TN
DATE: June 28th, 2016, 11:00AM-2:00PM
Pie Toss for American Heart Association
CLINIC: STAR Physical Therapy – Lexington
Hit Keith with a pie for a great cause! Each pie is $5 or you can get 5 pies for $20. All donations benefit the American Heart Association. For more information call 731.967.3788 or visit STAR Physical Therapy online at www.STARpt.com.

MT. PLEASANT, TN
DATE: June 2016, 11:00AM-2:00PM
Clinic Re-Opening after Fire
CLINIC: STAR Physical Therapy – Mt. Pleasant
The STAR Physical Therapy Clinic in Mt. Pleasant is returning home after their office building was damaged by a fire. The clinic has been completely restored and the therapists are super excited to get back to their home space. For more information about STAR Physical Therapy go to www.STARpt.com.

ALL STAR PHYSICAL THERAPY IN TN
DATE: June 1st-July 1st, 2016
Hoop it up for the Heart (Hula Hoop) Challenge!
CLINIC: STAR Physical Therapy
STAR Physical Therapy is excited to partner with the American Heart Association (AHA). Their mission is “To build healthier lives, free of cardiovascular diseases and stroke”. The goal this year will be somewhat like years past but with a twist. Be on the lookout for the Hoop it up for the Heart (Hula Hoop) Challenge! They are putting an emphasis on employee wellness, along with a charitable fundraiser and community involvement. For more information visit STAR Physical Therapy at www.STARpt.com.

VIRGINIA PHYSICAL THERAPY EVENTS

BRAMBLETON, VA
DATE: June 21st, 2016
Clinic Opening – Brambleton, VA
CLINIC: The Jackson Clinics – Brambleton
The Jackson Clinics is happy the announce the opening of it’s newest location in Brambleton, VA – located at 42365 Soave Dr. Bramleton, VA 20148. For more information about The Jackson Clinics visit them online at www.thejacksonclinics.com.

FAIRFAX COUNTY, VA
DATE: June 2nd – 20th, 2016
High School Physicals in Fairfax County
2ND Fairfax High School Physicals
7TH Langley High School Physicals
13TH Robison High School Physicals
14TH Woodson High School Physicals
15TH Falls Church High School Physicals/Westfield High School Physicals
20TH Centreville High School Physicals/Marshall High School Physicals
CLINIC: The Jackson Clinics
The Jackson Clinics will be helping local students complete their physicals. For information on times please contact your school’s athletic dept. For more info about The Jackson Clinics visit them at www.thejacksonclinics.com.

LEESBURG, VA
DATE: June 1st-July 1st, 2016
Hoop it up for the Heart (Hula Hoop) Challenge!
CLINIC: The Jackson Clinics – Skyline
The Jackson Clinics will be participating in the Smashing Walnuts Walk and Fitness Challenge to Crack the Cure for Childhood Brain Cancer. The walk will be held at Heritage High School in Leesburg, VA. To register for the Smashing Walnuts go to www.smashingwalnuts.org. For more information about The Jackson Clinics visit them online at www.thejacksonclinics.com.

RESTON, VA
DATE: June 4th & 5th 2016
Reston Sprint Triathlon
CLINIC: The Jackson Clinics
The Jackson Clinics will be available to help Reston Sprint Triathlon runners with pre stretching and mobility during packet pick up. The following morning, The Jackson Clinics team will be present to assist athletes with post race stretching. To register for the Reston Tri go to www.restonsprinttri.org. For more information about The Jackson Clinics visit them online at www.thejacksonclinics.com.

WILLIAMSBURG, VA
DATE: June 15th & 16th 2016
Virginia Self-Insurers Association 2016 General Meeting
CLINIC: The Jackson Clinics
The Jackson Clinics will be attending the Virginia Self-Insurers Association 2016 General Meeting on June 15th & 16th. The event will be held at Kingsmill Resort at 1010 Kingsmill Road. If you are attending stop by The Jackson Clinic’s display, meet the staff, and get lots of great information! For more information about The Jackson Clinics visit them online at www.thejacksonclinics.com.

Click here to print a downloadable events flyer.

Physical Therapy for the Pregnant and Postpartum Woman

May 19, 2016 Teresa Stockton - Blog, Women's Health

If you are encountering problems during your pregnancy, don’t stress. Many women are able to find pain relief by going to physical therapy during pregnancy. A licensed physical therapist, specifically trained in women’s health, can evaluate and address the physical issues affecting you. Some of the techniques a PT would use in alleviating these discomforts are postural awareness/education, individualized stretching and strengthening programs, soft tissue mobilization/myofascial release (types of massage), breathing exercises, bladder education and pelvic floor strengthening. A PT can also assist you in implementing an exercise regimen that is safe and easy to take part in no matter what your level of fitness. All of this is performed in concurrence with your OB/GYN’s care.

Musculoskeletal complaints of the Pregnant Woman:
• Postural stresses (accentuated lordosis)
• Pelvic girdle instability pain
• Back pain or SI joint dysfunction
• Round ligament pain
• Nerve entrapment syndromes: carpal tunnel, tarsal tunnel, thoracic outlet syndromes
• Neck pain
• Foot or Ankle pain (especially overuse of the gastrocnemius muscles due to COG shifted anterior)
• Tendinitis: lateral epicondylitis and trochanteric bursitis
• Circulatory problems:
• Lower leg cramps
• Edema in lower extremities
• Groin / coccyx pain
• Urinary complaints (due to reduced bladder capacity as the fetus pushes on the bladder ): stress or urge incontinence

Musculoskeletal complaints of Postpartum Woman (effects of hormonal laxity):
• Diastasis Recti
• Symphysis pubis separation
• C-section scar or episiotomy scar adhesions/pain
• Pelvic floor Dysfunction: pain with sexual activity
• Postural stresses: nursing, holding and carrying baby
• Low back pain or SI joint dysfunction
• Urinary complaints (due to weakness of the pelvic floor muscles / trauma during labor and delivery)
• Stress Incontinence
• Urge incontinence

EXERCISE CONSIDERATIONS:
Goals and benefits of exercise for the Pregnant Woman:
• Promotes good posture
• Increases or maintenance of aerobic fitness
• Improves muscle tone
• Improves sleep
• Prevents low back pain
• Reduces risk of gestational diabetes
• Improves physiological and psychological health
• Prepares mom for labor and delivery

Goals and benefits of exercise for the Postpartum Woman:
• Faster recovery from labor and delivery
• Increases endurance for taking care of self and baby

Make the right choice today. Ask your doctor how physical therapy can help you!

This information about physical therapy during pregnancy was written by by Rachna Mehta, PT, DPT, CIMT – Hamilton Physical Therapy Services, L.P. in Hamilton, NJ. Hamilton Physical Therapy Services is a well established provider of rehabilitation services in Mercer County since 1978. They take pride in offering personal and compassionate care with a patient-centered approach helping transform lives, one life at a time. For more information click here.

Removing Your Kinesio Tex Tape

May 17, 2016 Teresa Stockton - Blog, General Information, Sports and Fitness

Removing Kinesio Tape can seem pretty daunting. The whole point is for it to stay on, so what do you do when it’s time to remove it? Fear not friends, we have the answers here.

DON’T TAKE IT OFF TOO FAST! It’s not a Band-Aid.

1. Put some baby oil or cooking oil on the tape and let it soak for a few minutes to break down the adhesive.
2. Remove the tape in the direction of hair growth by slowly rolling down the tape and applying pressure on the skin with your other hand.
3. Use oil to remove any extra residue.

TIP: The tape can be worn for 3-5 days as long as there is no skin irritation.

To learn more about Orthopedic Kinesio taping visit our treatment technique section here

This information about removing Kinesio Tape was written by Desert Hand and Physical Therapy, a physical therapy group with locations throughout the greater Phoenix and Mesa AZ area. Desert Hand and Physical Therapy has specialized treatment centers providing therapeutic treatment and rehabilitation to restore optimal upper extremity function. For more information about the group click here.

More PTandMe articles about Kinesio Taping can be found here:

Exercise May Reduce Risk of Low Back Pain

May 12, 2016 Teresa Stockton - Back, Blog

Low back pain is a common complaint that can last a few days or weeks or become a chronic condition with significant impact on well being. Treatments can vary depending on the cause.Chronic back pain can be difficult to successfully treat and it may take some time to find what treatment works best for each person. Since treatment is not guaranteed to work, prevention is the best option. Back pain is often the result of long term stress on the back such as poor posture, sedentary behavior, or regular strain on the back. Prevention will likely involve a number of different steps to reduce these stresses. However, existing studies have not found clear recommendations for the best methods to go about it.

Researchers wanted to investigate the effectiveness of a number of interventions for the prevention of low back pain. The study, published in JAMA Internal Medicine, found that exercise alone or in combination with education was most effective for preventing low back pain.

About the Study
The systematic review of 21 randomized controlled trials included 30,850 men and women without low back pain. The participants were randomized to 6 different prevention strategies, including exercise, education, exercise plus education, back belt, and shoe insoles. The control groups received no intervention, minimal interventions, or placebo.

When compared to the control group exercise was associated with:
• Fewer low back pain episodes in the first 12 months (in 4 trials with 898 people)
• Fewer sick days due to back pain in follow up 12 months or longer (in 2 trials with 128 people)
• Reduction in short-term (4 trials with 422 people) and long-term low-back pain episodes (2 trials with 138 people) when combined with education

Education alone, back belts, and shoe insoles did not appear to have any benefit during the trials.

How Does This Affect You?
A systematic review combines the results of several smaller studies to arrive at one result. The benefit of this type of review is that it increases the number of participants which increase reliability of results. However the review is only as reliable as the studies that are included and the method used to combine the results. There were some flaws in every trial that were included in this analysis. For example, many of the included trials had a high dropout rate during the trial which decreases the reliability of their results.

Low back pain is often associated with an imbalance or weakness of certain back muscles. An exercise program will improve your physical fitness, strengthen your back muscles, and help you maintain a healthy weight. Regular physical activity may also help maintain a healthy weight which can also put strain on your back. Choose exercises or activities that you enjoy and will make a regular part of your day. For most people, this could include 30 minutes of moderate aerobic exercise per day.

Check with your doctor before starting any exercise program.

by Cynthia M. Johnson, MA

RESOURCES:
Family Doctor—American Academy of Family Physicians
http://familydoctor.org

Ortho Info—American Academy of Orthopaedics
http://orthoinfo.aaos.org

SOURCES:
Acute low back pain. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: http://www.ebscohost.com/dynamed. Updated March 2, 2016. Accessed March 22, 2016.

Steffens D, Maher CG, et al. Prevention of low back pain: a systematic review and meta-analysis. JAMA Intern Med. 2016 Feb 1;176(2):199-208.

Last reviewed April 2016 by Michael Woods, MD

PT News

May 10, 2016 Teresa Stockton - Blog, PT News

This Month in PT News. Featuring articles from PTandMe partnering clinics!

1. What does RICE and MEAT have to do with Physical Therapy?
Written by the Therapy Team at Cornerstone Physical Therapy. located in Canal Winchester, OH

When you hear the words rice and meat, we won’t blame you for thinking about food! In the physical therapy world, the RICE method (rest, ice, compression, and elevation) has long been the recommended treatment for sports injuries. Read more

2. Slow and Steady Still Wins the Race
Written by the Therapy Team at the Jackson Clinics Physical Therapy – Middleburg, VA

As the days get longer and warmer, we’re more apt to engage in outdoor activities like walking and running. Spring also begins the season for charity 5k races and half marathons―great inspirations for starting a new exercise program. Read more

3. Staying Active During Pregnancy
Written by Jennifer Ryskamp, PTA at the Center for Physical Rehabilitation – Grand Rapids, MI

I wanted to take this opportunity to connect with my fellow women who are currently pregnant, and let you know that you are not alone. I am speaking specifically to those who have historically always been very active and are now finding themselves forced to slow down due to the immensely wonderful and yet altogether difficult task of growing another human being. Read more

Starting a Workout Program

May 5, 2016 Teresa Stockton - Blog, Sports and Fitness

Yes, we get it, exercise is important, but that alone isn’t enough to make all of us get off of the couch. If you are having trouble starting a workout program that works for you and your schedule, get creative and start small. For most of us, we need someone or something to give us a small push in the right direction – and that’s exactly what we’re going to do. You don’t have to go to a gym with a lot of intimidating machinery, and weights – you can go to a physical therapy clinic. A physical therapist can work with you to develop a functional exercise routine that works for you and your goals… and if you need an exercise or wellness coach – they may just be able to make a recommendation. Okay, you’ve heard the sales pitch, but here are the basics you need to know. Whether you go to a gym, PT, or are starting a program on your own there are a few things you should take into consideration.

Benefits of Exercise

Improved circulation and cholesterol
Weight control
Assists with smoking cessation and addiction
Prevents/manages high blood pressure
Prevents bone loss
Boosts energy level and happy brain chemicals
Improves sleep, strength, and self confidence
Reduces risk of CHD/CVD, stroke
Delays/prevents chronic diseases
Reduces stress and anxiety while increasing relaxation
Prevents cognitive decline
Sharpens memory and boosts brainpower

Is Exercise Safe for Me?

If you have major health issues, consult your doctor before doing any exercise
Medical conditions can benefit from exercise even if you have a health issue or injury

Setting Yourself Up for Success

Set short term and long term goals THAT ARE OBTAINABLE!
Daily Reminders: schedule workouts on your calendar or set the alarm on your phone
Reward yourself for obtaining your goals (with something other than food)
Invest in a good pair of workout shoes
Workout with others
Start slowly
Do things you like and don’t focus on activities that you don’t like

How Often Should I Exercise?

Start small and build for success
American Heart Association recommends 30 min per day, most days of the week
SOMETHING IS ALWAYS BETTER THAN NOTHING!

How Hard Should I Work Out?

During cardio take the talk test: Can you speak in sentences while exercising?
Resistance training: You should be able to perform 10-15 reps with proper form

Stay Safe When You Exercise

Drink plenty of water before, during, and after a workout
Warm up, stretch, and cool down to help prevent injury
Wear good shoes that are appropriate for your foot type

This information about starting a workout program was written by Advance Rehabilitation, a physical therapy group with 15 locations throughout North and South GA, and 2 locations in North FL. Advance Rehabilitation is an outpatient physical therapy group that focuses on providing the highest quality rehabilitation services. They specialize in physical therapy, sports medicine, industrial rehabilitation and athletic training. For more information click here.

Baseball Video Throwing Analysis

May 3, 2016 Teresa Stockton - Blog, Sports and Fitness

Slow motion 2-D video throwing analysis for baseball players of all skill levels. The purpose of a baseball video throwing analysis is to break down the act of throwing to screen for abnormalities and deviations that may cause potential damage to the shoulder or elbow. Goals are injury prevention and optimizing performance by instructing players on the most efficient and effective mechanics of throwing. Includes evidence-based strengthening exercises and stretches from a certified strength & conditioning specialist. Provides player with proper arm care techniques, systematic warm-ups, cool-downs, throwing protocols, bullpen guidance and much more.

VIDEO ANALYSIS PROGRAMS TYPICALLY INCLUDE:
• Private Evaluation with a Physical Therapist
• Videography
• Biomechanical Analysis and Grading
• Recommendations on Areas for Improvement

WHY YOU SHOULD CONSIDER A VIDEO ANAYLSIS AS A PITCHER:
• Physical Therapy has proven to be immediately valuable in the rehabilitation of injuries and prevention of further damage to the shoulder or elbow
• Video analysis is the only technology available to view each phase of the throwing motion from all possible angles to screen and detect mechanical flaws that are causing injury
• Objective data obtained from the analysis is put through a rigorous grading process (The 8 Cylinders of Pitching) which determines the biomechanical efficiency of the throwing motion
• A structured rehabilitation and prevention program that incorporates the latest evidence-based interventions proven to be effective specifically to baseball players
• A baseball program will rehabilitate and optimize a player’s performance in a safe, scientifically sound manner and maintain good health through their careers.