Tag Archives: Physical Therapy

Backpack Safety 101

July 17, 2024 Kevin - Back, Blog, Pediatrics

With summer coming to an end and the need for school supplies and backpacks returning, here are a few tips to keep in mind when shopping with your child. Continue below for back pack safety tips to make sure your kids don’t have any unnecessary back pain this year.

Size

Should Not Extend Above Shoulders
Should Rest In Contour Of Low Back (Not Sag Down Toward Buttocks)
Should Sit Evenly In Middle Of Back

Fit

Shoulder Straps Should Rest Comfortably On Shoulders And Underarms, With Arms Free To Move – Tighten Shoulder Straps To Achieve This Fit
Tighten Hip And Waist Straps To Hold Pack Near Body
Padded Straps Help Even Pressure Over The Shoulders

Weight Of Pack

Should Never Exceed 15% Of The Child’s Weight To Avoid Excess Loads On The Spine

Lifting Of Pack

Proper Lifting Is Done By Bending The Knees, Squatting To Pack Level, And Keeping Pack Close To Body To Lift First To Waist Level And Then Up To Shoulders

Carrying The Pack

Keep Both Shoulder Straps In Place And Pack Centered
Spinal Forces Increase With Distance From The Body’s Center

Posture

Uneven Stresses On The Spine Can Cause Muscle Imbalances. This Can Lead To Pain And Possibly Functional Scoliosis.

If your child does start to complain of constant back pain, talk to your pediatrician and make sure that it isn’t a more serious issue such as scoliosis.

Scoliosis is a medical condition in which the spine is curved either front to back or side to side and is often rotated to one side or the other. It can occur at birth (congenitally), develop over time having no obvious cause, but often seen related to posture and growth (idiopathically) or due to an injury or the other condition (secondarily), such as cerebral palsy or muscular dystrophy. The most common type is adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. It usually develops between the ages of 10 and 15, during periods of rapid growth. There are two kinds of curves, single or “C” curves and double or “S” curves. “C” curves are slightly more common than “S” curves. The curve can occur in the upper back (thoracic), lower back (lumbar), or a combination of both.

Strength for necessary upright postures of daily life is essential. Sometimes it cannot be maintained due to a “growth spurt,” fatigue from daily postural demands or poor postural habits common among adolescents. A physical therapist can analyze a patient’s history, habits and activities which may be contributing to their curvature and symptoms. Common findings include tightness and decreased motion and strength in the hips and pelvis, causing the lumbar spine to compensate with side bending and rotation. Treatment will include muscular re-educating techniques and manual techniques to restore motion, posture training, specific strengthening and home exercises.

How Much Water Do You Need to Stay Hydrated

July 10, 2024 Teresa Stockton - Blog, General Information, Sports and Fitness

Fluid Intake is Essential for Good Health.

Water is needed to regulate temperature, maintain joint health, and deliver essential vitamins and minerals. Dehydration leads to impaired nerve and muscle function due to the body’s imbalance of sodium and potassium. Brain and muscle function become impaired causing decreased muscle coordination and impaired athletic performance.

Early signs and symptoms of dehydration include headaches, dry mouth, chills, dry skin, excessive thirst, and fatigue. The color of one’s urine is a good indicator of proper hydration. Improper hydration will cause your urine to become dark yellow. Signs of worsening dehydration are increased body temperature, heart rate, and body temperature. If you become confused, have vision disturbances, and have difficulty breathing, seek immediate medical attention.

Your risk of dehydration increases when you sweat excessively, increase your exercise intensity and duration when the temperature is high and at high altitudes.

How much water do you need to stay hydrated?

Staying hydrated on a normal day:

According to the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine, the amount needed varies.

Men – 3.7 liters per day
Women – 2.7 liters per day

This covers water you receive from all sources – including the foods you eat. Most people can easily reach this amount in their daily eating and drinking habits.

Staying hydrated on a hot summer day:

When you’re active outside, the amount increases. The CDC recommends 1 cup every 15-20 minutes – about 1 quart an hour. Drinking in short intervals is more effective than drinking large
amounts infrequently.

Staying hydrated when you workout:

The American Council on Fitness suggests these guidelines for moderate to high-intensity exercise:

Drink 17-20 ounces of water 2-3 hours before working out
Drink 8 ounces of fluid 20-30 minutes before exercising or during the warm-up.
Drink 7-10 ounces every 10-20 minutes during exercise.
Drink an additional 8 ounces of fluid within 30 minutes after exercising.
Drink 16-24 ounces for every pound of body weight lost after exercise.

Many sports teams will weigh the athletes before and after practice to determine the amount of fluid lost. The recommended weight loss limit due to fluid loss is 2% of your body weight per day. It is recommended that you drink 16-24 ounces of water for every pound lost.

WOW, THAT IS A LOT!

But it shows us how much fluid we can lose during higher levels of exercise and why it is so important to stay hydrated. It is essential to drink water before, during, and after practices and games. Especially in the warmer months.

Are Sports Drinks Better Than Water?

Definitely in taste, but nothing hydrates the body better than water. Sports drinks do provide more potassium, minerals, and other electrolytes which will help you sustain your performance during exercise and may help you recover significantly faster in workouts over one hour in duration. The biggest problem with sports drinks is the sugar content. Many of them have multiple servings per bottle. Glucose is essential but you do not need as much as you will find in most sports drinks. I recommend a combination of water and a low-sugar sports drink. Research also indicates that chocolate milk may help the athlete recover more quickly when consumed after exercise due to its carbohydrate and protein content.

You should consult your pediatrician or family physician if you feel that you or your child has problems with dehydration.

How Physical Therapy Manages Arthritis Pain

May 15, 2024 Teresa Stockton - Blog, General Information

Dealing with arthritis pain can significantly affect your lifestyle. However, physical therapy for arthritis can help you manage your symptoms and help you do your daily activities.

Regardless of whether you’re dealing with Rheumatoid Arthritis or Osteoarthritis, physical therapists are uniquely qualified to help patients reduce pain, improve mobility, and boost overall functionality.

Your physical therapist will customize a treatment plan designed for your needs. They will direct you on safe and efficient exercises for arthritis management, with a focus on your affected joints and muscles.

Moreover, they will teach you the correct exercise techniques, the use of assistive devices if necessary, and how to adjust activities to prevent further joint damage.

What Are the Key Benefits to Managing Arthritis Pain?

Some notable benefits of physical therapy for arthritis include:

Alleviating pain and inflammation: Physical therapists use modalities like heat, ice, ultrasound, and electrical stimulation to relieve pain and reduce joint inflammation. These methods increase blood flow, promote healing, and decrease discomfort.
Enhancing joint mobility and flexibility: Arthritis often leads to stiffness and restricted movement. Physical therapists may prescribe exercises and stretches to improve joint mobility and flexibility. By strengthening the muscles around the affected joint, we can help restore function and improve movement.
Strengthening muscles and boosting endurance: Weak muscles can exacerbate arthritis symptoms and add stress to the joints. Physical therapy includes targeted exercises to strengthen the muscles around the affected joints, providing better support and stability, reducing pain, and improving overall function.

3 Great Physical Therapy Techniques for Arthritis

Here are a few physical therapy techniques that can ease your arthritis:

Manual therapy techniques: This involves hands-on manual adjustments made by a physical therapist. This includes joint mobilizations, soft tissue mobilizations, and manual stretching. Manual therapy aids in improving joint function, reducing pain, and increasing range of motion.
Therapeutic exercises: These are specific exercises designed to improve strength, flexibility, and endurance. These exercises are customized to your needs and may include low-impact activities like swimming or cycling. They help stabilize joints, improve balance, and alleviate pain and stiffness.
Thermotherapy and cryotherapy: These are common modalities in physical therapy. Thermotherapy relaxes muscles, increases blood flow, and reduces pain, while cryotherapy reduces inflammation and numbs the area for pain relief. Your treatment plan may include one or both of these modalities to help manage your symptoms.

Is Exercise Good for Managing Arthritis Pain?

Yes! You bet it’s good! Here are some great exercises you should try for effective arthritis pain management:

Low-impact exercises: Activities such as walking, swimming, cycling, and using an elliptical machine are gentle on the joints and promote cardiovascular health.
Range of motion exercises: These exercises aim to improve joint flexibility and reduce stiffness. Gentle stretches, yoga, tai chi, and foam roller exercises help maintain and increase joint mobility.
Strengthening exercises: These exercises target the muscles surrounding the affected joints, providing them with increased support. Resistance training with light weights or bands, or using your body weight can help build muscle strength.

It’s crucial to consult with a physical therapist before starting any exercise program. They can provide personalized guidance based on your current fitness level, arthritis severity, and any other health conditions.

How to Safely Exercise with Arthritis

Exercise is a great way to manage arthritis pain. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

Warm-up and cool-down routines: Always warm up your muscles and joints before starting an exercise routine. After exercising, cool down to reduce stiffness and soreness.
Use of assistive devices: Depending on the severity of your arthritis, you may need assistive devices to support your joints during exercise. Consult with your physical therapist to determine suitable devices for your needs.
Avoid overexertion: Pay attention to your body’s signals and avoid pushing yourself too hard. Start with low-impact activities and gradually increase the intensity and duration per your body’s tolerance.

By following these safety tips, you can exercise with arthritis in a way that aids pain management and improves your overall mobility. Always consult a physical therapist to create a personalized exercise plan tailored to your needs and limitations.

Treatment Options for Achilles Tendinitis

November 8, 2023 Teresa Stockton - Ankle, Blog, Foot

The Achilles tendon is the largest tendon in the body. It connects your calf muscles to your heel bone and is used when you walk, run, and jump. Although the Achilles tendon can withstand great stresses from running and jumping, it is also prone to tendinitis, a condition associated with overuse and degeneration. Achilles Tendinitis causes pain along the back of the leg near the heel. If you suffer from Achilles Tendinitis – try these pain relief methods.

Treatment Options for Achilles Tendinitis

REST: Cut back your training by decreasing your mileage and intensity. Also, avoid hills and speedwork. You may substitute running with swimming, running in water, and biking to reduce the irritation.

ICE: Apply ice to the affected area for 10 to 20 minutes with at least one hour between applications. Do not apply ice directly to your skin – a pillowcase or dish towel works well as a protective barrier. Frozen peas or reusable gel packs are flexible and conform well to the injured area.

PROPER FOOTWEAR/ORTHOTICS: This situation can be corrected with arch supports or custom orthotics. Orthotics allow your foot to maintain the correct position throughout the gait. Avoid walking barefoot and wearing flat shoes. If your pain is severe, your doctor may recommend a walking boot or to cast you for a short time. This gives the tendon a chance to rest before any therapy is begun.

NON-STEROIDAL ANTI-INFLAMMATORY MEDICATION: Drugs such as ibuprofen and naproxen reduce pain and swelling. They do not, however, reduce thickening.

PHYSICAL THERAPY: Achilles tendinitis can be a painful, chronic condition if left untreated. Physical therapists may use stretching, massage, custom orthotics, strengthening, and/or balance activities to help your body relieve pain and heal.

CORTISONE INJECTIONS: Cortisone, a type of steroid, is a powerful anti-inflammatory medication. Cortisone injections into the Achilles tendon are rarely recommended because they can cause the tendon to rupture (tear).

Concussion Treatment and What to Expect

July 12, 2023 Teresa Stockton - Blog, Head

Concussion Treatment and What To Expect

Our goal is to alleviate all concussion-related symptoms so that you may return to a normal, symptom-free life.
Vestibular, oculomotor, cognitive, and cardiovascular exercises will be incorporated into your treatment. Some exercises will bring on symptoms, which is normal. By introducing symptoms in a controlled manner, we are retraining the brain to adapt to these demands.
To monitor your symptoms while you are here, imagine that when you come in you have a “gas tank” or work capacity of 100%. We would like to work until your brain is at 50%. The goal is to fatigue your brain to make it stronger, not to make it hurt.
In the first 24 hours after therapy, you may experience an increase in symptoms, fatigue, and emotional changes.
Routine activities such as work and school may bring on symptoms. you should work until symptoms appear, then rest until they are gone. Finding your limit and not going beyond it will contribute to your success.
Symptoms can be limited at home, school, and work by minimizing screen time, especially at night and learning when your body and brain need to rest.
Exercises will slowly increase in duration and intensity as your treatment progresses and your brain begins to heal.

This information about concussion treatment was written by Rehab Associates of Central Virginia, they are dedicated to working with one another as a team across their sub-specialty practices and their physician partners. For more information click here.

More PTandMe concussions articles can be found here:

Golfer’s Elbow

May 10, 2023 Teresa Stockton - Blog, Elbow, Sports and Fitness

Golfer’s Elbow

Golfer’s Elbow, medically known as medial epicondylitis, is a painful condition where the tendons that attach to the inside of the elbow become inflamed due to repetitive use of the hand, wrist, forearm, and elbow. Golfer’s elbow often occurs with repetitive activities such as swinging a golf club or tennis racket, work or leisure activities requiring twisting and gripping such as shoveling, gardening, and swinging a hammer. Golfer’s elbow can also appear in other sports-related activities such as throwing and swimming. Golfer’s Elbow (Medial epicondylitis) is most commonly seen in men over the age of 35 but can be seen in any population. If these symptoms sound familiar, then going to physical therapy for golfer’s elbow may be just what you need.

What is causing your elbow pain?

Golfer’s Elbow (Medial epicondylitis) affects the group of muscles that are responsible for bending the wrist, fingers, and thumb and that rotate the wrist and forearm. The tendons that connect those muscles to the medial epicondyle (bump on inside of elbow). Tendons are made up of collagen fibers that are lined up next to each other. The repetitive forces pull on those tendons creating pain and tenderness described as Golfer’s Elbow. Without treatment, those tendons can eventually pull away from the bone. Acute injuries to your elbow can create an inflammatory response which can cause redness, warmth, and stiffness in your elbow.

Golfer’s Elbow (Medial epicondylitis) is most often caused by an abnormal arrangement of collagen fibers. This condition is called tendinosis. During tendinosis, the body doesn’t create inflammatory cells as it does during an acute injury. Instead, fibroblasts are created which help make up scar tissue to fill in the spaces between the collagen fibers. This increase in scar tissue can lead to increased pain and weakness in the tissues. Physical and hand therapy is the most common nonsurgical treatment for Golfer’s Elbow (medial epicondylitis). Your therapist will perform an evaluation where he/she will ask you several questions about your condition, pain level, and other symptoms you may be experiencing. He/she will perform motion and strength testing on your entire upper extremity. Your therapist will also palpate your arm to determine which tendon(s) may be inflamed. He/she will use special tests designed to deferentially diagnose your condition from others that may have similar presentations to Golfer’s Elbow, such as Cubital Tunnel Syndrome.

What to Expect from Physical Therapy for Golfer’s Elbow

Pain Management: this can include Mechanical Diagnosis & Therapy, ice, ice massage, moist heat, electrical stimulation, and ultrasound.
Range-of-Motion Exercises: stretches and mobility exercises to help maintain proper movement in your elbow, forearm, wrist, and hand.
Strengthening Exercises: progressive resistive exercises to help build strength in your arm, elbow, forearm, wrist, and hand. These can include weights, medicine balls, and/or resistance bands. This will also include your Home Exercise Program.
Manual Therapy: used to ensure full, pain-free movement is achieved and can include joint mobilizations, manual muscle stretches, and soft tissue massage.
Neuromuscular Re-education (Functional Training): used to help you return to your prior level of function for both home and work activities. This will include retraining proper movement patterns with necessary modifications based on the current level of function and patient limitations.
Patient Education: used to help retrain patients on proper postural control during everyday activities including dressing, self-care, work, and sports activities. This can include helping return a patient to their specific sport, such as making adjustments to their golf swing or throwing technique.

Once you’ve completed physical therapy for Golfer’s Elbow you’ll want to do everything you can to prevent this from reoccurring. This can occur by maintaining proper awareness of your risk for injury during your daily movements. Key things to keep in mind:

1. Maintain proper form during all repetitive movements both at work and at home.
2. Continue your Home Exercise Program in order to maintain proper strength in your shoulder, elbow, forearm, wrist, and hand.
3. Use proper posture and body mechanics with lifting or carrying to avoid any undue stress on your joints and tendons.

This information was written by Plymouth Physical Therapy Specialists, an outpatient physical and hand therapy group with fourteen locations in the surrounding Plymouth, Michigan area. At Plymouth Physical Therapy Specialists, they are committed to using evidence-based treatments in their practice. This means that their therapists utilize the most current and clinically relevant treatments in their approach to rehabilitation. For more information click here.

8 Tips for an Enjoyable Bike Ride

May 3, 2023 Teresa Stockton - Blog, General Information

Optimizing your bike and clothing isn’t just for competitive racers. Even if you’re just looking to ride a few miles recreationally, you can be more comfortable and have more fun by following our tips for a more enjoyable bike ride!

1. Check Tire Pressure
If your tires are too soft, you have a much higher chance of “pinching” a tube, causing a flat. Low pressure also increases rolling resistance, making it more difficult for you to ride at a normal speed. Check the sidewall of your tires for recommended pressure range; it doesn’t need to be at the maximum, but be sure it’s at or above the minimum.

2. Seat Angle
Everyone has a different preference on exact seat angle and position, but it should be roughly level. Deviations of 1-2 degrees up or down are OK, but don’t point up or down too much. This can place unnecessary pressure on pelvic soft tissue or the hands/wrists.

3. Seat Height
An old belief about seat height was that you must be able to touch the ground with both feet when sitting on the saddle. If you are very new to cycling, this does improve your ability to stay upright at very slow speeds. A seat that is too low, can put excess pressure on your knees and back, making it less efficient. A “proper” seat height has the knee at about 30 degrees of bend at the lowest point in the pedal stroke.

4. Stay Hydrated
Carry water with you on any ride longer than 30 minutes (shorter in hot conditions). You can use a backpack-style hydration pack, or a simple water bottle and cage. Almost all bicycles have bolts to hold a water bottle cage. Whichever method you choose, get familiar with it and get in the habit of using it often.

5. Know How to Change a Tube
Carry the items needed to replace a tube in the event of a flat tire. Your local bike shop can help you with choosing these items. These can all be carried in a bag under your seat. You don’t need to be Nascar pit-crew-fast at it, but you want to know how to fix a flat tire so you don’t end up stranded.

6. Like Lycra
Very few people think of bike shorts as a good fashion statement. However, if you’re riding more miles, especially in warm weather, they provide comfort that can’t be matched with basketball or running shorts.

7. Be Visible
Along with the bike shorts, make sure your t-shirt or jersey is a bright color that will keep you visible in traffic. If there is a chance you’ll be riding near or in darkness, be sure to have at least a rear and preferably also a front light on your bicycle.

8. Riding Shouldn’t Hurt
Sure, if you’re looking to get a hard workout or ride fast, your legs will feel the burn. However, if your body and bike are working together properly, riding shouldn’t cause any joint pain. If you can’t ride without getting neck, back, hip, or knee pain, consider having a professional look at either your body or your bike fit. Better yet, have a physical therapist who is versed in bike fitting address both at the same time. The answer to most aches and pains is rarely just in one area (bike fit or bodywork), and a combined approach will usually work best for alleviating pain and getting the most out of your ride.

Let Physical Therapy help you before your pain turns into an injury.

What an ache tells you:
• It’s the first clue your body is telling you something is wrong.
• Your body can accommodate the ache, but eventually, a breakdown will happen.
• While you accommodate to your ache, weakness, and lack of flexibility start.
• Once you have a breakdown, the pain will begin, and more than likely you will stop doing the activities you currently enjoy.

How physical therapy can help prevent sports injuries:
• Modify exercise routines when you have a minor ache and pain (This does not always mean you need to stop exercising!)
• Get assessed for weakness and flexibility issues to address biomechanical deficits.
• Educate on faulty or improper posture or body mechanics during exercise
• Educate and help with techniques on exercises that help your muscles stretch farther. Flexibility training helps prevent cramps, stiffness, and injuries, and can give you a wider range of motion.
• Correct muscle imbalances through flexibility and strength training.
• Alleviate pain.
• Correct improper movement patterns.

Common Cycling-related pain and injuries that Physical Therapy can treat:
•  Low Back Pain
•  Neck Pain
•  Foot numbness
•  Shoulder pain
•  Muscle strains
•  Hand pain/numbness

This information about having a more enjoyable bike ride was written by Advanced Physical Therapy, a physical therapy group that uses progressive techniques and technologies to stay on the forefront in their field. Their staff is committed to providing patients with advanced healing techniques. For more information click here.

Struggling with an ache, pain, or simply need help getting your bike fitted? Our team can help make sure you get the most out of your time on your bike!

Physical Therapy For Plantar Fasciitis Pain

April 26, 2023 Teresa Stockton - Blog, Foot

Does your foot or heel hurt with the first step in the morning? Does your foot hurt when you get up from sitting or driving for long periods of time? If the answer is yes, you may have plantar fasciitis. Plantar fasciitis is the most common type of foot pain. Plantar fasciitis is the irritation or inflammation of the plantar fascia. The plantar fascia is a thick dense connective tissue that attaches to the heel and ball of the foot. A related problem is a heel spur which is extra bone that may grow from the heel bone. This is in response to the plantar fascia being tight or inflamed, thus pulling on the heel bone.

Inflammation and microtears occur more commonly in sports that involve running, long-distance walking, dancing, tennis, basketball, and in non-athletes who spend long periods of time walking on unyielding surfaces. Patients with pes planus and heel pronation have an increased likelihood of developing plantar fasciitis because of the increased tension on the plantar fascia caused by these anatomic features. A tight gastrocnemius can result in heel pronation thereby making plantar fasciitis more likely. Cavus feet with relative rigidity also place more stress on the plantar fascia. The plantar fascia also tends to become more rigid with age making it less effective as a shock absorber and more likely to develop microtears.

Common Causes of Plantar Fasciitis:

Too Rapid of an Increase in Exercise Program.
Change in Lifestyle (Active to more Sedentary) Causing Sudden Weight Gain or Sedentary to Active.
Muscle Tightness and/or Weakness.
Poor Biomechanics (movement) at the Foot and Ankle.
Inadequate Cushioning in Shoes or Inadequate Shoes.
Occupation with prolonged weight bearing on Hard Surfaces.

Plantar Fasciitis Symptoms:

People with plantar fasciitis complain of searing pain at the point of the fascias insertion into the calcaneus. This pain is at its worst with the first few steps upon arising in the morning or after a sustained period of being off their feet. The plantar fascia origin is often extremely tender to palpation. Pain is also increased after long periods of walking, climbing stairs or doing toe raises.

For Plantar Fasciitis Pain Relief at Home – Try These Stretches:

Frozen Can Roll
Take a frozen food can and roll your foot forwards and back.

Towel Grab
Grab and pick up a towel or dishcloth using only your toes.

Finding Plantar Fasciitis Relief with Physical Therapy:

Physical Therapy for Plantar Fasciitis

Physical therapy evaluation generally reveals an antalgic gait pattern especially when first beginning to walk. Often foot is pronated, gastrocnemius is shortened and there is severe pain with palpation of the inferior, medial heel. Most people can experience relief in just a few sessions. However, the longer the pain remains untreated, the longer it will take to heal. It can even become so chronic in some cases other non-conservative treatments are deemed necessary. If you are experiencing symptoms similar to the ones listed earlier you may have plantar fasciitis. If you are diagnosed with plantar fasciitis physical therapy can help you resolve your pain.

Physical therapists take the time to educate each plantar fasciitis patient on how to prevent a recurrence of pain. They provide preventative stretching programs that can be done at home, instruct on what to look for when purchasing new shoes, and if necessary, help patients adapt their current lifestyle to prevent re-injury.

Why Should I Do My Physical Therapy Home Exercise Program?

February 1, 2023 Kevin - Blog, General Information

When a patient walks in for physical therapy, one of the things they are sent home with is a home exercise program. But why do they do that? Aren’t they supposed to take care of everything while you are in the clinic? These are questions that may run through your head, but what exactly are the benefits of a home exercise program? If you’re on the fence about whether or not to take your HEP seriously, we’re here to tell you why you should.

Continuation of forwarding progression in rehabilitation: Physical and occupational therapists tailor each program to the abilities and strengths of each patient. A patient that completes their home exercise program is more likely to excel in the one-on-one sessions at the clinic and experience fewer setbacks in rehabilitation.
Increases level of mobility and endurance: Exercise in the home is designed to continue the progress of the clinic visit by increasing a patient’s flexibility and stamina. A good home exercise program allows a patient to increase function and improve muscle memory so that progress is gained rather than lost from one visit to another.
For some patients, therapy doesn’t end at discharge: A home exercise program can help a patient remain pain-free and functional without having to pay for repeat visits and costly medical bills. For patients experiencing chronic pain – a home exercise program is a ticket to staying out of the doctor’s office.

New Remote Therapeutic Monitoring Program Helps Seniors Complete their Home Exercise Programs!

With RTM, physical therapists continue to create and prescribe home programs as part of the treatment plan as they have always done. The difference with RTM however, is that now our teams can monitor a patient’s performance and response to the home exercise program between clinic visits. RMT provides physical therapists with musculoskeletal data and reports pain levels each time the patient engages with the platform. Additionally, if a patient can’t perform their exercises or follow the instructions correctly, the physical therapist will know and be able to make modifications immediately.

Despite the benefits of a home exercise program, patients have trouble following through on their home exercise program goals. We’re going to go over some of the more common excuses:

I don’t have time, because life at home is too busy: It can be hard, especially for those running a household with multiple schedules to accommodate. However, a physical therapist can offer suggestions on working these into your schedule. Some exercises can be done at work, at home, on the playground. If time is truly a concern then don’t be afraid to let the therapist know.
It hurts: Some pain is considered normal – it’s a normal part of the exercise. However, if you are doing an exercise and something feels wrong, let your physical therapist know immediately. Don’t wait until your next appointment and tell yourself you will take care of it then. It could be something as simple as not doing the exercise correctly and they can talk you through it over the phone. Communication is a large part of rehabilitation and your therapist wants to know if something is causing concern.
Not motivated: Not seeing the point of the exercises your therapist gave you – ask them why it is so beneficial. Going to see a physical therapist 2-3 times a week alone without doing home exercises will not be enough to maintain muscle strength and flexibility. Healthy habits begin with persistence. If you need motivation talk to your therapist, they are born motivators and want nothing more than to watch you succeed. Enlist the help of family or friends to keep asking about your progress.

Physical therapists may utilize print copies of exercises or they may choose to go utilize a digital version that you can access from a mobile device. No matter the delivery, the goal for each is the same. To help you heal more effectively. If you have questions about your home exercise program and what it contributes to your recovery talk to your physical therapist. Education and understanding are crucial to making sure your experience in recovery is successful. If you need help finding a physical therapist to answer your questions, we have you covered in our “Find a PT” section.

Post Concussion Recovery: Why Baseline Testing is Important

August 10, 2022 Teresa Stockton - Blog, Head, Pediatrics, Sports and Fitness

Concussions are serious

Medical providers may describe a concussion as a “mild” brain injury because concussions are usually not life-threatening. Even so, the effects of a concussion can be serious.

Once an athlete has been suspected of having a concussion… when is it safe to go back to play? The answer is different for everyone, but there are few baseline tests that medical professionals can administer to make sure that a gradual return to play, work and activity is safe and won’t lead to further damage.

When an athlete has a concussion, it’s important to know how much their functional and cognitive abilities have been affected. With a baseline test you give medical professionals an accurate starting point to correctly evaluate the impact of the injury.

FAQs about Concussion Baseline Testing

Concussion baseline testing is a pre-season exam conducted by a trained health care professional. Baseline tests are used to assess an athlete’s balance and brain function (including learning and memory skills, ability to pay attention or concentrate, and how quickly he or she thinks and solve problems), as well as for the presence of any concussion symptoms. Results from baseline tests (or pre-injury tests) can be used and compared to a similar exam conducted by a health care professional during the season if an athlete has a suspected concussion.

Baseline testing generally takes place during the pre-season—ideally prior to the first practice. It is important to note that some baseline and concussion assessment tools are only suggested for use among athletes ages 10 years and older.

How is baseline testing information used if an athlete has a suspected concussion?

Results from baseline testing can be used if an athlete has a suspected concussion. Comparing post-injury test results to baseline test results can assist health care professionals in identifying the effects of the injury and making more informed return to school and play decisions.

Education should always be provided to athletes and parents if an athlete has a suspected concussion. This should include information on safely returning to school and play, tips to aid in recovery (such as rest), danger signs and when to seek immediate care, and how to help reduce an athlete’s risk for a future concussion.

What should be included as part of baseline testing?

Baseline testing should include a check for concussion symptoms, as well as balance and cognitive (such as concentration and memory) assessments. Computerized or paper-pencil neuropsychological tests may be included as a piece of an overall baseline test to assess an athlete’s concentration, memory, and reaction time.

During the baseline pre-season test, health care professionals should also assess for a prior history of concussion (including symptoms experienced and length of recovery from the injury). It is also important to record other medical conditions that could impact recovery after concussion, such as a history of migraines, depression, mood disorders, or anxiety, as well as learning disabilities and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder.

Baseline testing also provides an important opportunity to educate athletes and others about concussion and return to school and play protocol.

Who should administer baseline tests?

Baseline tests should only be conducted by a trained health care professional such as a physician, physical therapist or trained ATC.

Who should interpret baseline tests?

Only a trained health care professional with experience in concussion management should interpret the results of a baseline exam. When possible, ideally a neuropsychologist should interpret the computerized or paper-pencil neuropsychological test components of a baseline exam. Results of neuropsychological tests should not be used as a stand-alone diagnostic tool, but should serve as one component used by health care professionals to make a return to school and play decisions.

How often should an athlete undergo concussion baseline testing?

If baseline testing is used, research suggests that most components of baseline testing be repeated annually to establish a valid test result for comparison. Baseline computerized or paper-pencil neuropsychological tests may be repeated every 2 years. However, more frequent neuropsychological testing may be needed if an athlete has sustained a concussion or if the athlete has a medical condition that could affect the results of the test.

Many physical therapy clinics have therapists that have been trained in baseline testing software and techniques. Physical therapists can also specialize in return to sports programs for athletes that have experienced concussions. The decision of when you go back to your sport can be a critical one… especially if you go back to soon. Prevent this by having an accurate baseline available for your healthcare professionals.

Need Physical Therapy? Find a PT Near You!

more information can be found at http://www.cdc.gov/headsup/

Additional articles from PTandMe about concussions can be found here:

Fluid Intake is Essential for Good Health.

How much water do you need to stay hydrated?

Staying hydrated on a normal day:

Staying hydrated on a hot summer day:

Staying hydrated when you workout:

Are Sports Drinks Better Than Water?

What Are the Key Benefits to Managing Arthritis Pain?

3 Great Physical Therapy Techniques for Arthritis

Is Exercise Good for Managing Arthritis Pain?

How to Safely Exercise with Arthritis

Treatment Options for Achilles Tendinitis

Concussion Treatment and What To Expect

Golfer’s Elbow

What is causing your elbow pain?

What to Expect from Physical Therapy for Golfer’s Elbow

Once you’ve completed physical therapy for Golfer’s Elbow you’ll want to do everything you can to prevent this from reoccurring. This can occur by maintaining proper awareness of your risk for injury during your daily movements. Key things to keep in mind:

Let Physical Therapy help you before your pain turns into an injury.

Common Causes of Plantar Fasciitis:

Plantar Fasciitis Symptoms:

For Plantar Fasciitis Pain Relief at Home – Try These Stretches:

Finding Plantar Fasciitis Relief with Physical Therapy:

Physical Therapy for Plantar Fasciitis

More Articles about Plantar Fasciitis Physical Therapy:

New Remote Therapeutic Monitoring Program Helps Seniors Complete their Home Exercise Programs!

Despite the benefits of a home exercise program, patients have trouble following through on their home exercise program goals. We’re going to go over some of the more common excuses:

Concussions are serious

FAQs about Concussion Baseline Testing

How is baseline testing information used if an athlete has a suspected concussion?

What should be included as part of baseline testing?

Who should administer baseline tests?

Who should interpret baseline tests?

How often should an athlete undergo concussion baseline testing?