Fitness After 50 with Physical Therapy (Prevention + Exercising Tips)
As we go through different stages in life, from childhood, adolescence and adulthood into our senior years, it becomes even more important to adopt a healthy lifestyle. As they say, prevention is always better than cure.
Common conditions and illnesses experienced by seniors:
As one grows older, there are changes in the cardiovascular, musculoskeletal, endocrine systems. Some common conditions and illnesses include:
- Mental health issues
- Osteoarthritis, osteoporosis and other musculoskeletal disorders
- Chronic diseases (heart disease, respiratory diseases and diabetes)
- Sexual dysfunction
- Menopause in women and andropause in men
- Risk of cancer
By addressing common risk factors and improving overall health and wellness, it is possible to maintain and enhance the quality of life as one grows older.
Read full blogPhysical Therapy for Shin Splints (Prevention, Diagnosis + Treatment Plans)
The shinbone or the tibia is the front surface of the lower leg. This part of the body is under constant stress and strain when we walk, jump and run.
An overuse injury happens when a certain threshold of tolerance is crossed. This is a condition called shin splints. Intense pain occurs on the front, inside, outside and at times, the back of the lower leg. If left untreated, this pain can lead to stress fractures of the tibia.
Read full blogPhysical Therapy for Osteoporosis (Tips for Maintaining Quality of Life)
Osteoporosis is a condition in which the amount of calcium and minerals in the bone decreases, leading to a reduction in bone density. As a result, bones become fragile and prone to fractures. A fracture can occur from a minor fall or simple actions like sneezing or bumping into furniture.
Treatment involves calcium supplements and prescription medication. Physical therapy plays an important role in maintaining quality of life for patients with osteoporosis, and for good reason.
Read full blogThe Elimination of Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI) – Prevention and Treatment
Repetitive strain injury (RSI) occurs as a result of overuse or misuse of the body and it generally affects the upper extremities. It has been reported that approximately 60% of all occupational injuries can be attributed to RSI. This causes a significant decrease in productivity on a personal and professional level.
Causes
RSI usually occur in the fingers, elbows and wrists. The wrist joint experiences a great deal of stress as it is constantly used to perform simple tasks such as writing and typing.
Read full blogPhysical Therapy for the Spine (Treatment Plan)
The spinal column supports the body and provides the structural framework for muscles and bones in the trunk region. It is a bony framework that protects the spinal cord, which serves as a channel of communication between the brain and the rest of the body. It serves as an anchor for a network of muscles that surround the trunk and help in movement and stability of the trunk region.
Every time we pull, push, twist, bend and stretch the spine or lift a heavy object, we challenge the muscles surrounding the spinal column.
Read full blogPhysical Therapy for Foot Drop (Treatment + Exercising Plan)
Foot drop syndrome is a neuromuscular disorder characterized by weak muscles in the front of the lower leg. This can result in partial or total loss of control over the foot. This affects the ability to lift the foot at the ankle.
Damage to the nerve fibers that allow the flexing of the ankle and toes can cause several problems. For example, the toes point towards the floor when the foot is lifted up from the ground.
Read full blogPhysical Therapy Can Help Patients With Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (Treatment + Exercising Plan)
Chronic fatigue syndrome is a clinical condition characterized by excessive fatigue and body pain. It is often preceded by a viral illness and is associated with symptoms like muscle aches and pains, joint pains, difficulty sleeping and at times, depression.
The symptoms are unpredictable and can vary from mild discomfort to excruciating pain. Depending on its severity, this condition has the potential to alter the lives of the patient and family members, and requires a comprehensive treatment plan.
Read full blogHow to Deal with Nagging Elbow Pain (Short Treatment Guide + Exercising Plan)
The ulnar nerve is a major nerve that runs through the arm. It is responsible for movement and sensation in the forearm and the hand. It allows intricate hand movements like writing, typing and holding objects, all of which are critical in day to day life.
The ulnar nerve travels through a small tunnel at the back of the elbow called the cubital tunnel. It is well protected within this tunnel, but can get compressed at times, resulting in cubital tunnel syndrome.
Read full blogRapid Recovery from Hamstring Injuries (The Role of Physical Therapy)
The hamstring muscles, located at the back of the thigh, are comprised of three muscle groups. Injuries to this muscle are common in athletes participating in sports such as football or basketball. They are also common in ‘weekend warriors’ and individuals who participate in walking, jogging or running without a period of adequate warm up and stretching.
This muscle group allows your knee to bend, and plays a critical role in every activity involving the lower body.
Read full blog11 Reasons Why Physical Therapy Can Prevent or Treat Diabetes
Physical Therapy and Diabetes Prevention – The Hidden Link
Diabetes mellitus is a worldwide health problem characterized by the body’s inability to break down sugar due to an inefficiency of the hormone insulin. According to the American Diabetes Association, the toll of diabetes is significant if left unchecked.
- Two out of three people with diabetes die from heart disease or stroke.
- Diabetes is the leading cause of kidney failure.