http://www.healthzine.org/feed/ http://www.healthzine.org/ Every day new articles and updated info on all your health, beauty and fitness concerns. Wed, 27 May 2009 08:59:29 +0200 Wed, 27 May 2009 08:59:29 +0200 http://www.healthzine.org/Physical-therapy/Physical-Therapy-Program http://www.healthzine.org/Physical-therapy/Physical-Therapy-Program There is life after a stroke! The question is; are you determined to take what’s rightfully yours? Most stroke survivors find it hard to cope with life after the said medical condition, but wouldn’t it be rewarding and empowering if you won over the battle because you persevered and you did not give in? Life is every living things rightful own. It is up to you however if you give up the fight because you feel so useless. Remember that victory over this battle is as sweet as the food Ambrosia. Stroke, may impale half of your body, and alternately you may have to relearn the simple and basic skills, and you may also would have to relearn how to speak again, or even how to tie your shoelaces. The key to this condition is sheer determination. And Physical Therapy Program will help you get there. Truth is most of the skills that you rediscovered is mainly because of your “Will Power” and this in itself is rewarding. You will even have your very own cheering squad for added motivation. Yes, this endeavor requires a lot of hard work, but the reward of it is Respect in its highest form. Thus your story will be told after your time has past. Your name will become immortal in your family tree, and will be a symbol of strength in your clan. And to help you with your condition is the Physical Therapy Program which will lead you to your desired end. This program is specifically designed for stroke survivors. The remedial treatment includes Speech therapy, Occupational therapy, and Physical Therapy. Each of these therapies will target areas of the brain and of the specific body that has been affected by the stroke. The physical therapy program for speech it targets areas of the brain that is responsible for reactivation. As such the brain will again have to relearn how to talk. On the areas of occupational treatments, the program, aims to help the survivor regain the finer motor skills. This activity also aims to improve the survivor’s personal care skills. And finally the physical therapy program for Physical healing will probably be necessary for teaching larger muscles what to do. Physical Therapy Program like these prevents your inactive muscles from atrophying. These treatments may sound very expensive but the truth is patients who received post stroke therapy perform better than those who have not. Significantly they are more independent in feeding, bathing, dressing as well as do toilet activities, compared to patients who have not undergone rehabilitative care. Physical Therapy Program will help you regain the vigor and independence that you once have. Most of all such Physical Therapy Program significantly reduces the risk of death or deterioration in their ability to perform personal care. But what if you never again regain your full 100%? Well then you just have to reinforce other stuffs. For example, reinforce wooden sticks if you did not recover your full ability to walk straight. Or if you can afford a wheel chair, this will come in handy as well. Along with your condition is also your responsibility to protect yourself. By this I mean, that you should make sure that such places like bathrooms and stairs are safe for you to use. Most of all, it is very important for you not to give up. Yes, there are days that your endeavors are unappreciated by your family and little favors may sometimes feel annoying to them, but it does not mean that they love you less, Just remember that they also are human beings and they all have their separate lives. Just remember the saying “On to the FINISH, when things go wrong DON’T QUIT!” You can survive after a stroke, it is possible, there’s life still and it’s your rightfully yours Take It!!! And discover a new you, with physical therapy program. About the author. Dr. Rose Windale is a successful Health & Wellness Coach who has been advising and coaching individuals for many years. Rose now decided to share her knowledge through this site, Healthzine.org. You can sign up for her free weekly newsletter and learn how to become truly healthy and happy. Mon, 4 May 2009 06:22:01 +0200 http://www.healthzine.org/Physical-therapy/pilates-for-rehab-program http://www.healthzine.org/Physical-therapy/pilates-for-rehab-program Take this scenario. During World War I, there was apparently a host of wounded soldiers needing medical attention. But considering it was a time of “disarray”, many of these wounded soldiers wouldn’t have gotten the treatment necessitated for their particular injuries. So came Joseph Pilates, a nurse of the German army and an “innovator” of his time. Joseph thought of devising a particular form of exercise as a means of addressing the injury concerns of soldiers incapacitated in the surrounding armed conflict. “ Joe” practiced his ingenuity by attaching weighed springs to the beds of the wounded soldiers. Surprisingly, these injured patients healed and recovered faster after having carried out the exercises through the contraption. Then came the first Pilates equipment from which other forms of related tools for the exercise was devised. This is the origin of the highly regarded rehabilitation exercise which is now called Pilates. The rehab exercise program has been used by countless of physical therapists, chiropractors, osteopaths and trainors since then. An optimally rehabilitative exercise that is now considered, Pilates came from Joe’s innovation and creativity- Joe having been considered a person way ahead of his time. Pilates for rehab is a program often utilized in physical therapy clinics. A pilates for rehab program can help improve a patient’s posture, flexibility and balance. All in all, a pilates for rehab exercise program strengthens the body. Generally, a patient going through rehabilitation engages in a regime or program devised by their healthcare practitioner, or a team of them. Within this program is often incorporated a pilates for rehab scheme. Why is pilates for rehab effective? Good form is emphasized in the exercise scheme. Through this, an injured patient can gain strength in weak and affected muscles. Pilates for rehab is more often gentle in its exercises and movements, especially on the joints. As a result, it doesn’t overstress an already stressed body, so to speak. Smaller muscle groups supporting the joints and bony structures are also boosted. An awareness of balance is then established. Chronically weak and imbalanced muscles are able to gain equal strength. “Keep yourself strong today, and avoid injuries tomorrow”. Pilates for rehab can be utilized to support this precept. It’s because the exercise rehabilitation program is a form of preventative medicine as well. This is particularly true as a means of warding off injuries during the aging years. More so for arthritis sufferers. Arthritic patients need to maintain flexibility in their joints and to keep them lubricated. It is essential to keep a full or near full range of joint motion for arthritic individuals. Pilates instructors help patients carry out the exercises, but they are not trained or qualified to make diagnosis. But on the other hand, they work in conjunction with the patient’s attending osteopath, physical therapist or chiropractor who has obtained proper diagnosis on the case or condition. It is a matter of medical and professional teamwork with the patient’s cooperation which gives way towards the latter’s improvement and recovery. About the author. Dr. Rose Windale is a successful Health & Wellness Coach who has been advising and coaching individuals for many years. Rose now decided to share her knowledge through this site, Healthzine.org. You can sign up for her free weekly newsletter and learn how to become truly healthy and happy. Tue, 24 Feb 2009 03:59:15 +0100 http://www.healthzine.org/Physical-therapy/basic-proper-posture-techniques http://www.healthzine.org/Physical-therapy/basic-proper-posture-techniques Yes, that’s what moms always say. So did my fourth grade math teacher while we were wedged in her class for what seemed forever. “Sit up straight”. So why do doting mothers and well-meaning teachers tell us this? Sitting up straight primarily has to do with proper posture. Proper posture is when your skeletal structure is correctly aligned when carrying out activities. Having proper posture is necessary when you’re on the move, or merely just relaxing such as lying down. Your posture is the window to your spine. And when the positioning of this particular structure of your body is incorrect, it can cause spine and nervous system problems. But more often, we tend to be unaware of improper posturing we carry out. For instance, slouching. You may think this is negligible. Slouching may seem harmless at first, but in the long run it can spell trouble. So it is forward head posturing. These improper postures hamper the lymphatic drainage in the neck. Consequently, muscles would become strained. Another posturing problem is the forward tilt of the pelvis. This, on the other hand results to anterior weight bearing. Even more so, sciatica, chronic low back pain, muscle and leg weakness could arise. This incorrect posture can further lead to the development of premature spinal arthritis of the discs and the joints. This significant health dilemma can result once this unhealthy posturing habit is not corrected, especially as it causes an unusual spinal weight bearing. These are few of the most common posture problems. What are ways of addressing these issues? There is the treatment or healing therapy known as chiropractic which can be an effective modality. Chiropractic is a widespread technique used to apply proper posture and relieve spinal pain. Practitioners of chiropractic are called chiropractors. These health professionals have been trained on analyzing improper and proper posture and detect spinal problems. Through years of study, chiropractors have studied and continually research on spinal curvatures and alignment. In the same manner, they analyze and determine what problems may arise due to poor posturing pattern. One such means that chiropractors do this is by looking at the outward turning of a foot, or else both feet. They are also keen on how the knees align, or how the hips or the pelvis level. Chiropractic practitioners analyze the height of differences across the shoulders along with the tilting of the head and the neck. Whatever changes in your stance are examined to determine possible problems. It can cause much inconvenience when spinal problems develop due to improper postures that we negligently carry out. Among the most common consequences which is backache can in fact be a significant discomfort, especially if it becomes chronic. So when mom says “sit up straight”, she actually knows what she is talking about- proper posture. Not only is this a boon to your poise and physical appearance, but can spare you form health problems. Proper posture merely takes awareness, such as holding the head up with the chin in- no tilting forward, sideways or backwards. Shoulders are held back, the knees and the back straight. The stomach ought to be tucked in, and the pelvis not tilted forward. Arches in the feet should be supported so that weight is evenly distributed. With these basic proper posture techniques you get to move about with ease and comfort. You give an impression of confidence, and more so, avoid health conditions and further expenses. About the author. Dr. Rose Windale is a successful Health & Wellness Coach who has been advising and coaching individuals for many years. Rose now decided to share her knowledge through this site, Healthzine.org. You can sign up for her free weekly newsletter and learn how to become truly healthy and happy. Tue, 9 Dec 2008 04:52:48 +0100 http://www.healthzine.org/Physical-therapy/knee-braces http://www.healthzine.org/Physical-therapy/knee-braces You want to walk the talk- literally- but you can’t. It can be that your gait is wobbly or your stance unsteady. The bane causing your burden can be something as basic as a bad knee, or else known as a knee problem. And then again, issues concerning this part of your anatomical structure have several causes. Such problems can arise from certain conditions such as ligament problems, those associated with osteoarthritis, post operative rehabilitation, patella femoral tracking and those falling under the category of general knee problems. If you happen to suffer from any of these, you are more likely to contemplate on a solution. Among the makeshift measures you may think about is using knee braces. In searching for the most suitable brace for yourself, you can be at a loss. There are several and different sorts of knee braces, so how will you know which one is most apt for your condition? Primarily, you have to confer with your doctor or physical therapist. They are those holding better authority concerning the field of sports medicine, a subject you are most likely to be baffled about. Your doctor or physical therapist can present you with different options of knee braces in relation to your condition. Other than this, they can explicate on the mechanism of an injury. Pertaining to your condition, the doctor may expound on whether your issue is a result of a disease process, or one of its symptoms. Or perhaps a trauma or an injury instigated it. Then again an anatomical deficiency may have been the precursor. You have to know which trapping fits. A knee brace for osteoarthritis will not be feasible for an issue having to do with a ligament deficiency. Or if you happen to suffer from the latter condition and would utilize a general knee brace, you would gain minimal benefits. Initially, the brace may seemingly provide support. But if by chance abnormal forces are applied to the area due to a sporting event or similar instances, you will yield the least protection. Your strained or torn ligament is yet rendered vulnerable, exposing it to much risk or aggravation. To see which implement addresses your particular knee malady, determine the core issue- what the nature of the disorder is. Once the crux is resolved, then can you apply the appropriate implement or treatment. Of the varying nature and degrees of knee pain or injury, measures such as rest, medications or alternative and home remedies are applied. Crutches provide temporary support as well. But with such orthopedic conditions, the relevant service sought after is that of a physical therapist’s. Knee pain and related issues are a common complaint. If the condition causes significant discomfort or hampers your functionality, it is most apt that you seek a medical professional’s advise. There ought to be no need for you to be impaired or debilitated by your condition as long as your doctor or therapist is trusted and credible, and on your part there is initiative to comply with the recommended treatment or treatments. About the author. Dr. Rose Windale is a successful Health & Wellness Coach who has been advising and coaching individuals for many years. Rose now decided to share her knowledge through this site, Healthzine.org. You can sign up for her free weekly newsletter and learn how to become truly healthy and happy. Fri, 31 Oct 2008 17:21:03 +0100 http://www.healthzine.org/Physical-therapy/physically-fit http://www.healthzine.org/Physical-therapy/physically-fit What goes with being physically fit? You hear the words and you see a lean and trim body, robust and always on the go. Physically fit is basically to look good and having a well-functioning body. Everybody wants to have that- wouldn’t you? But what makes a person gain physical fitness? First off, you have to know the distinction between being healthy and looking good. Everybody wants to look good – it can be beneficial in many ways. But many people compromise their health just for the sake of looking good. For instance, you look slim, which you think is good. But think of the means you resorted to to be able to be thin. Was it by limiting the foods you eat, starving or purging yourself? These means can deliver quick weight loss results, but how do they make you feel? Do you feel energetic and mentally alert? Or perhaps you often feel sluggish and unable to focus your thoughts and concentrate. Do you have physical strength at all? Or do you feel light headed and breathless when exerting even the slightest effort? You look thin and slim, but how do you feel? Do you feel good and are you able to enjoy a good quality of life? There is more to looking good in enjoying a quality life. More than how you look, you also have to take care of your mental and emotional health. Holistic health is health in its truest sense, not just looking good. The goal then is not to be merely thin and slim, but to be physically fit. To have a body which does not only look good but functions efficiently as well. How is it to gain a physically fit body? Eating healthy and regular physical activity remain to be the basic and effective measures. It is keeping the body fueled with the right sort and being well-tuned and conditioned. A healthy diet best sustains the body. It is one which is sufficient in fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, good fats and healthy beverages. Foods eaten are best when organic. There is a barrage of processed and junk foods, and as much as they are tasty, they can be toxic to the body in the long run. Aiming for health and fitness means limiting the consumption of these unhealthy foods. Rather than eating unhealthily or having unhealthy eating habits, the body is best nourished by eating right. Eating right means eating at the right time with the right food choices. It does not even entail depriving yourself. Being physically fit means taking good care of yourself, not punishing it or allowing it to suffer needlessly. Just as you would want to discipline a child for it to be better, you do the same to yourself- you discipline with love. The key to have true health and fitness is to love yourself healthily. Every aspect of you- mind, body and spirit- you have to tend to. Only then will you know how it is to be happy and live life to the fullest. About the author. Dr. Rose Windale is a successful Health & Wellness Coach who has been advising and coaching individuals for many years. Rose now decided to share her knowledge through this site, Healthzine.org. You can sign up for her free weekly newsletter and learn how to become truly healthy and happy. Thu, 14 Aug 2008 07:50:12 +0200 http://www.healthzine.org/Physical-therapy/physical-health http://www.healthzine.org/Physical-therapy/physical-health It has perennially been said that “health is wealth”. Do you know why it is so? Because with good health, you can enjoy and savor life. In its simplest terms, you can enjoy a good quality of life and living becomes worthwhile. Being healthy is actually more than the state of your physical health. Health and fitness in its real sense is all-encompassing, or holistic, so to speak. You’ve probably heard of the words “mind, body and spirit wellness”. This is true wellness and with it comes countless rewards. Body, mind and spirit wellness- why is it called so? These three aspects comprise the total person which is you. If you want to take care of “you”, then take care of these elements which make up “you”. The three are actually interrelated, and you cannot ignore one or the other. For instance, did you know that your mindset can affect the state of your physical health? If your mindset is that of an optimistic one, then it will be favorable to your physical health. Studies have actually proven so. There was a study done on 900 men and women. These subjects were aged 65- 86 years old. Those involved in this study filled out a questionnaire and within its scope are questions on health, morale, self-respect, relationships and optimism. Conclusions of the study showed that those who have high levels of optimism had a 55% reduced risk of death from all kinds of causes. Compared to highly pessimistic people, optimists also have 23% lesser chances of dying from cardiovascular death. Being an optimist has its benefits. An optimistic attitude seems to be a strong protection against early death from all causes, and its for both men and women. This goes to show the scientific point of view on how a positive attitude can influence physical health, or bring about good health all in all. With a positive mindset or outlook in life, you will feel happier. Problems and setbacks may come, but you don’t easily become depressed or gloomy. You don’t give in to negativity, a major precursor to bad health and illness. With a positive attitude, you view setbacks as challenges, and this is empowering. And the more you think of empowering yourself, the more you will be. In terms of your mind, your emotions and ultimately your body. And that’s how you are able to build a strong defense for yourself, and you protect yourself. Being a positive and optimistic person will influence all aspects of your life. How your life turns out often begins with how and what you think- in the mind. So think positive and take action. Radiate with positivity by smiling and reaching out. By seeing the good in others and the world, and expecting the good to come out of setbacks. That is one of the secrets to good health and happiness. Attitude is everything in this sense, and it is what most often matters the most. A positive and healthy attitude can bring you a better life, not necessarily by changing outside factors, but mostly what is within you. And what is within you is that which makes the difference. About the author. Dr. Rose Windale is a successful Health & Wellness Coach who has been advising and coaching individuals for many years. Rose now decided to share her knowledge through this site, Healthzine.org. You can sign up for her free weekly newsletter and learn how to become truly healthy and happy. Wed, 9 Jul 2008 05:24:44 +0200 http://www.healthzine.org/Physical-therapy/physical-therapist1 http://www.healthzine.org/Physical-therapy/physical-therapist1 What can be more rewarding than giving a person their life back. It’s not literally making the dead come back to life, but rather metaphorically. There are people who have had heart attacks or strokes and other debilitating ailments or perhaps accidents. These circumstances might have caused them to be incapacitated and disabled. So they may have become paralyzed or bed-ridden. Unable to go on with normal activities and daily routine. But life for these people can possibly be restored. Their functionality can be regained and they could be mobile again. And then enjoy how it is to go about like normal people in many cases. These because of the “magic” of a physical therapist. Physical therapists are qualified health professionals and they help debilitated people in so many ways. For instance, they could aid patients in relieving pain, restoring function and improvement of mobility. Patients which therapists often treat are accident victims and those with disabling conditions such as lower back pain, fractures, arthritis, head injuries, cerebral palsy, heart disease and more. A physical therapist generally implements a program to aid a patient in their recovery. Exercise programs are often employed to increase the patient’s balance, strength and flexibility. Coordination, range of motion and endurance are also enhanced. A master’s degree in physical therapy is required for a person to become a therapist. The degree must come from an accredited institute and a state license is also necessary. Strong interpersonal skills are also required of a therapist especially when they work with the patient and their family. Scores of patience is also a must for a physical therapy practitioner. Being a physical therapist is not only rewarding in a personal sense, but also professionally. Board certified therapists can practice in rehabilitation clinics and hospitals, acute care hospitals, long-term care centers, outpatient clinics and nursing care facilities. Other possible workplaces for therapists are home health agencies, assisted living facilities and educational institutions. They can choose from several placement options as well, such as part-time, full-time, contract, temporary, travel, per diem and temporary. Competitive salaries also go with the profession and excellent benefits, too. A physical therapist will have the opportunity to get to know diverse people. They could come in contact with people of different age groups, cultures, values and faith. With this profession, one can help improve the patient’s health and fitness. The therapist plays a crucial role in restoring and enhancing the patient’s quality of life. Not only does the practitioner assist in developing physical strength, but also in lifting up the spirits of a debilitated and despondent person. Being a physical therapist is a fulfilling and lucrative career option, especially as the demand is expected to rise. For those who are looking for a career wherein there is personal, professional and economic fulfillment, the field of physical therapy is a wise choice. For all the investment of time, resources and energy for getting an education, the rewards are surely worth it in the long run. The profession gives an opportunity for rendering assistance to others which can make a strong impact in their lives. About the author. Dr. Rose Windale is a successful Health & Wellness Coach who has been advising and coaching individuals for many years. Rose now decided to share her knowledge through this site, Healthzine.org. You can sign up for her free weekly newsletter and learn how to become truly healthy and happy. Wed, 11 Jun 2008 08:56:01 +0200 http://www.healthzine.org/Physical-therapy/cardiac-rehab1 http://www.healthzine.org/Physical-therapy/cardiac-rehab1 It’s an alarming fact that heart disease and other cardiovascular diseases have become more threatening. Such conditions now affect a larger percentage of people, and have instigated more damage. You may be one of those who’s had a heart attack, or perhaps somebody you know. And now after surgery, you look forward to living again. But it doesn’t come so easy though, as after a surgery you may feel tired and depressed. You could even be worrying about your survival. The last thing you would want to do is get on the treadmill. But on the other hand, exercising after going through surgery might be more motivating through a cardiac rehab program. In a cardiac rehab program, you would be doing physical activities under the watchful eyes of your health care team. Through such a program, your chances for survival and speedier recovery would increase. As studies have established, cardiac rehab decreases anginal pain. An improvement of heart failure symptoms such as fatigue and shortness of breath has also been seen. Through a comprehensive rehabilitation, death rates in heart attack patients are reduced by 25%. If you are suffering from heart disease or have just survived a heart attack, cardiac rehab can greatly improve your condition. Such a measure would make you feel better than you thought possible. This rehabilitation scheme is a customized program which includes exercise and education. Other than a cardiac rehabilitation program, the physician generally recommends lifestyle modifications. The goal of this rehabilitation is to help you regain strength and to prevent your condition from worsening. It also aims on reducing your risks of having future heart problems. Patients ought to ask for cardiac rehabilitation if it is not offered. In such a program, patients should look for flexibility. In that manner, they would be more motivated and capable to keep to it. There are four main components in this program. Primarily, there is Medical Evaluation. With a thorough assessment, you health care team would be able properly gauge your physical abilities, medical limitations and other possible conditions you may have. The next component is Physical Activity. Best rest is no longer recommended for those having heart problems, even serious ones. Exercise in a rehabilitation program would improve cardiovascular fitness. Such exercises can be walking, jogging, cycling and rowing, among others. Lifestyle Education and Guidance is also crucial. Through education and guidance, the patient would be made aware of healthy dieting and proper nutrition. Weight loss is promoted and they are taught on eating healthy and making the right food choices. The main aim of this is to reduce cholesterol, sodium and fat. Having undergone surgery may have left you depressed and anxious. You might have to stop working for several weeks and lost touch with your social support system. To help you cope, Psychosocial Support is also provided by the program. Healthy coping measures are inculcated through vocational or occupational therapy, and counseling. Patients are given the opportunity to raise questions and discuss issues concerning sexual activity, medications and the like. In patient care and the fight against heart disease, cardiac rehab remains to be an important measure. About the author. Dr. Rose Windale is a successful Health & Wellness Coach who has been advising and coaching individuals for many years. Rose now decided to share her knowledge through this site, Healthzine.org. You can sign up for her free weekly newsletter and learn how to become truly healthy and happy. Wed, 21 May 2008 09:21:42 +0200 http://www.healthzine.org/Physical-therapy/rotator-cuff-injury http://www.healthzine.org/Physical-therapy/rotator-cuff-injury As a sportsperson or athlete, one is put to more risk for injuries. Say for instance, a weight lifter. When a weight lifter improperly executes their lifting, then they might sustain a rotator cuff injury. A rotator cuff injury is one of the most painful injuries that an athlete can experience. As there is much pain, it can get in the way of one’s normal activities. As an athlete, one’s sport might even be hampered. With a rotator cuff injury, an athlete may not be able to perform to their full potential. Even a good night’s sleep will not be enjoyed, as sleeping on the affected area makes it to the point of being agonizing. Everyday motions also become uncomfortable and painful. But first thing, what is the rotator cuff? The rotator cuff is one of the most important muscles in the body. It is located in the shoulders and is composed of tendons and four muscles. These four muscles are namely the supraspinatus, the infraspinatus, teres minor and the subscapularies. The rotator cuff serves to connect these tendons to the shoulder blade. This muscle is basically responsible for the full range of motion in the shoulder. Having a rotator cuff injury can be excruciating. Such an injury could be caused by many different things. For a weight lifter who does lifting improperly and then exercises continually through the pain, a tear can result. Other athletes are more prone to tears as well due to the nature of their activities. Or as one ages, they become more susceptible. When one has sustained a partial tear in the rotator cuff, a full range of motion may still be allowed. But most areas of the shoulder would be tender and painful. As for a fully torn rotator cuff, a person would be left unable to raise their arm. There are several measures to allow for a full recovery. There are stretches and exercises which can strengthen the muscles. Primarily, one has to seek medical advice for a proper diagnosis. In many cases, it is other areas of the shoulder which is injured and not the rotator cuff itself. Through various treatment measures, a rotator cuff injury can be cured and one could be back to their normal manner of living. Like for instance, a combination of ultra sound heating, deep massages and exercises. They can effectively cure the problem, especially when one is managed and assisted by a skilled professional. In rare cases, though, exercises may not be enough to remedy the injury. It is then that a surgery may have to be recommended. But it must be noted that surgery would only be the last recourse. The first options for treatment are basically strengthening and stretching exercises. When these measures don’t seem to work, then a more drastic option might be employed and that is surgery. For a more thorough diagnosis and for the most suited treatment option, it’s best to seek the advice and attention of a qualified medical practitioner. That way, one can be ensured of safety and treatment would be more guaranteed. About the author. Dr. Rose Windale is a successful Health & Wellness Coach who has been advising and coaching individuals for many years. Rose now decided to share her knowledge through this site, Healthzine.org. You can sign up for her free weekly newsletter and learn how to become truly healthy and happy. Wed, 30 Apr 2008 15:01:14 +0200 http://www.healthzine.org/Physical-therapy/sports-injuries http://www.healthzine.org/Physical-therapy/sports-injuries People who are into sports are often vulnerable to sports injuries. Those who are into games or competitions often have to stretch their physical limits. This is the challenge of sports which many find stimulating and exciting. But then again, along with the skills and effort entailed of this is the risk of sports injuries. Perhaps it may be less taxing on athletes who are in their prime years. After all, they have the physical strength and endurance for it. But there are sportsters who are well out of their youth and even into their forties. Sports is exciting and challenging, and at their age, they still enjoy it. But sporsters who are well into their forties are most susceptible to injuries. Perhaps it goes with their youthful mindset, or the urge to prove their stamina still that they play. But then again, such people may no longer have the conditioning and vigor that their bodies once had. And so, it can happen- sports injuries. Physical therapists say that these sorts of injuries could have been prevented. In fact, it is 60% or more of these incidents would have been warded off. Through what means, you may ask. It is as simple as taking 20-30 minutes of daily workout. Or perhaps some stretching and exercises before performing. These ought to condition the muscles and the joints for strenuous performances. Exercise, or rather regular exercise has that benefit. Through daily workout and stretching, the body as a system can be boosted. It will be enhanced and trained in a sense. So whatever sport you may engage in, and being out of your prime, it would not cause so much of a trauma to your body. Such is why physical therapists deem it necessary that sportsters do their regular conditioning exercises. Warming up before performing is also entailed. So make it a point to do your share of personal training to your body before a competition. Or better yet, during a game for your test of manhood. It can be as simple as 20-30 minutes of stretch session before your peak performance. Warm ups, too, are essential to keep your body safe from injuries. Not that you will entirely be invincible, but your chances of having sports injuries will be reduced. It’s best to play it safe at this point. Sports is fun and stimulating, but it entails action, and even contact. Much more, there is force along with the effort that you exert. It’s simply a matter of paying attention to yourself and your body. And not to recklessly move head on. Sure you may want to go out in the field and prove that your body can still do it. But in the process of doing so, you need not break some of your parts. Take the necessary precautions and play it safe- that’s the basic rule. That way, you can enjoy sports to the fullest, and the fun and the challenge of it will be worthwhile. Prevent injuries by taking care of yourself before, during and after the game. About the author. Dr. Rose Windale is a successful Health & Wellness Coach who has been advising and coaching individuals for many years. Rose now decided to share her knowledge through this site, Healthzine.org. You can sign up for her free weekly newsletter and learn how to become truly healthy and happy. Fri, 11 Apr 2008 08:48:45 +0200 http://www.healthzine.org/Physical-therapy/occupational-therapist http://www.healthzine.org/Physical-therapy/occupational-therapist There is a bright career prospect for those considering occupational therapy. In 2006, occupational therapists held 92,000 jobs, most of them working in hospitals. Others worked is various nursing facilities and schools. One out of ten therapists had more than one job. Employment opportunities in the said field are expected to rise beyond the average in 2014. There is an expansive growth in the number of people suffering from disabilities. This may have been brought about by an increasingly becoming stressful lifestyle. Such is why the demand for occupational therapists is also increasing. Hospitals hire such individuals to handle in-care critical patients. The same can be said with those who are in their outpatient rehabilitation programs. How can one qualify as an occupational therapist? The minimum requirement by far is a bachelor’s degree, although a master’s degree might be considered in the future. Obtaining a license means that an occupational therapist must have a degree from an established educational program, after which they should pass the National Certification Exam. Certain courses should be accomplished for applicants considering the profession. In high school, they should have taken physics, chemistry and health biology. As for undergraduate majors, the following courses are necessary: anatomy, biology, psychology, anthropology and sociology. Certain characteristics are required of an occupational therapist as well. They should be patient and have strong interpersonal skills. Patience is an essential requirement especially as some patients may not respond quickly. If the therapist would deliver home health care services, they would need to adjust to a variety of home settings. Considering such a profession entails that one should be able to work with people of different ages, and in different settings. The duties of an occupational therapist mainly include assisting patients in performing their tasks. They can range from using the computer to managing basic daily needs such as eating, cooking and dressing. Patients are facilitated on improving their decision making skills. An occupational therapist guides them on enhancing their memory and coordination. The same can be said with their perceptual skills. The main aim is to assist the patient in leading an independent life. What exactly are the principles behind occupational therapy that therapists adhere to? Therapists are primarily concerned about human occupations. An occupation plays a crucial role in defining a person’s sense of identity in the society. People have an inborn, inherent need to express themselves and be operative. Therapists may work with people who have disabilities, or those from different age groups. Employment for therapists in schools is increasing due to the rising rate of disabled students. As of May 2004, the average income for an occupational therapist ranged from $54,000 to $67,000. An occupational therapist is basically a skilled and able professional, and they are capable of empowering people who are suffering from the stress, anxiety and depression which go with living. As a therapist empowers, they themselves are empowered as theirs is a profession with a significant impact on the lives of others. In the long run, the effort of the profession is worth it, as lives can be changed, both for the therapist and the patient. About the author. Dr. Rose Windale is a successful Health & Wellness Coach who has been advising and coaching individuals for many years. Rose now decided to share her knowledge through this site, Healthzine.org. You can sign up for her free weekly newsletter and learn how to become truly healthy and happy. Tue, 25 Mar 2008 08:29:34 +0100 http://www.healthzine.org/Physical-therapy/physical-therapy3 http://www.healthzine.org/Physical-therapy/physical-therapy3 Accidents and injury, illnesses, surgery or disabilities can leave a person debilitated. But in some cases, the patients are able to regain their mobility and physical functionality, and this is with the help of physical therapy. On the surface, one may regard the therapy as an alternative or natural treatment. Unlike aromatherapy or herbal remedies and the like though, physical therapy is considered as a legitimate treatment. It is resorted to for treatment of bodily or physical disabilities resulting from diseases, injury or accidents. The benefits of this therapy have been recognized by much of the medical community. Exercises and activities are often involved to condition various parts of the body. Through them, the body parts worked on are able to gain coordination, strength, conditioning and movement. Physical therapy is different from occupational therapy in that the latter is more concerned on dealing with more permanent physical or developmental problems. As for physical therapy, it is a shorter term solution, and it is aimed on people needing temporary treatments or assistance. This treatment method has become essential for addressing injuries and physical disorders. Exercises involved are designed to help the patient gain their full range of motion as much as possible. And oftentimes, treating the patient entails much exhaustive work. The therapy is crucial as well in helping children with physical disabilities. It can help in the development of younger people with cerebral palsy and other conditions. In cases like these, the therapist’s work may take years until some benefits are seen. This is among the most rewarding aspects of the profession – it helps others enjoy a better quality of life. Appointments with the therapist are only one aspect of the whole treatment. A daily exercise regimen is generally offered along with other activities that could help with the rehabilitation. For patients to get the fullest benefits of the exercises, the therapist most often demonstrates and teaches on them. When patients diligently comply, they may then expect their health to improve and gain additional functionality on the problem area. Therapists are skilled in helping patients recover and regain the greatest amount of functionality deemed possible. These healthcare professionals work on maintaining and improving the use of muscles, bones and joints. Specialized treatments and efforts of these individuals are resorted to for this purpose. Physical therapists, they are licensed professionals and they have done wonders to people of all ages. Their patients range from children, to adults to the elderly. As society ages and moves on, there is seen to be more demand and need for such healthcare professionals. One can see a bright career outlook in this field. In terms of economic and personal fulfillment, a physical therapy career can be rewarding. That’s how often it is in the field of healthcare. If one finds their calling in it, it is quite promising. In the search for a fulfilling career, one may well consider physical therapy. Not only is there opportunity due to patient demand but also when it comes to helping others and cultivating a personal sense of purpose. About the author. Dr. Rose Windale is a successful Health & Wellness Coach who has been advising and coaching individuals for many years. Rose now decided to share her knowledge through this site, Healthzine.org. You can sign up for her free weekly newsletter and learn how to become truly healthy and happy. Thu, 6 Mar 2008 04:49:51 +0100 http://www.healthzine.org/Physical-therapy/sports-and-physical-therapy http://www.healthzine.org/Physical-therapy/sports-and-physical-therapy It can be engaging to get involved in sports. After all, it’s all about skill and endurance, not only physically but mentally and emotionally, too. The thing with sports is that you have to just keep on pushing and stretch your limits. Challenging is the best way to describe it. Being an athlete can be fulfilling, but yes, there are many challenges to contend with- the strain of training, the competition or event itself, and the risk (a big one) for injuries. Almost every athlete has gone through some sort of injury. It’s basically inherent to the vocation they have chosen to be in. But as athletes need their strength and wellness to perform still and better, they have to get over or recover from injury. Thanks to advancement in medical science, it is highly possible now for athletes to regain their strength and be back on their feet again. The field of medical science concerned with this is physical therapy. Such is why sports and physical therapy are related in so many ways. What is an injured athlete more likely to expect on their first visit to the physical therapist? One major factor to consider for the patient is that they must like their physical therapist. It’s necessary that they stick to their therapist all throughout the recovery process. This is one fundamental thing to consider with injury in sports and physical therapy treatment. Such is essential for the treatment to be effective. On the first visit to the therapist, the patient would be asked all pertinent information about their injury. This includes the nature of it as well as assessments and evaluation, information from all the other health professionals who have treated them. The injured athlete should well expect to be asked a series of questions. A skilled therapist is usually thorough when it comes to this. Having all sorts of queries on the patient’s past and present physical problems. Once the patient walks out of the medical facility on their initial visit, they should have felt good about a solution. Along with it, the patient ought to be given a pamphlet, or a diagramming of exercises that they can begin to perform. This is one of the steps for them to restore their lost or injured facilities. To get back to their “old self” again and to be able to get on with their athletic activities. This may take time, and it’s generally dependent on the nature of the sports injury. There is a wide range of these conditions ranging from lateral epicondylitis to a minor but simple muscle strain. And there is of course broken bones or fractures which would need the rebuilding of muscles. Such is why the therapist may conscientiously evaluate the patient’s muscle’s, joints, tendons and ligaments. Their current range of motion would also be compared with their usual range of motion. On that first appointment, the injured athlete should expect to be confident that their therapist has a clear idea about their condition. They same can be said with the normal range of strength that the athlete wants to return to. Physical therapy has gone through great strides and injuries treated through it can be completely overcome. If there won’t be a full recovery, there would still be an improvement of health and the patient’s overall freedom. That’s how it is with sports and physical therapy. About the author. Dr. Rose Windale is a successful Health & Wellness Coach who has been advising and coaching individuals for many years. Rose now decided to share her knowledge through this site, Healthzine.org. You can sign up for her free weekly newsletter and learn how to become truly healthy and happy. Wed, 13 Feb 2008 09:39:28 +0100 http://www.healthzine.org/Physical-therapy/physical-therapy2 http://www.healthzine.org/Physical-therapy/physical-therapy2 There may be countless employment opportunities out there. But perhaps not many are promising. So when a student is out to get a course, they must think long term. Will their course land them in a stable job someday? And not only a job, but a career in which they can advance, and also fulfilling. When it comes to this dilemma, having a career in physical therapy can be a good option. The field of physical therapy is expanding with more demands for physical therapists. Primarily there are physical therapy aids and assistants, and there are physical therapists themselves. Physical therapy aids and assistants, they perform tasks as delegated by their supervising physical therapist. These physical therapy aids and assistants work with the physical therapist to render service to the patient. This service and assistance can be to help limit or prevent lasting physical disability, improve mobility and relieve pain. All these conditions may be caused by a disease or an injury due to an accident. A physical therapy assistant on the other hand is being supervised by a physical therapist. The assistant may perform massages or assist in exercises, do paraffin baths, ultrasound or electrical stimulation. As for physical therapy aids, they have a different job description. Physical therapy aids help the patient move to and from the treatment center. Other than that, they also keep the physical therapy are clean. They also order necessary supplies and even do clerical work. There are limitations to what physical therapy assistants and aids can do. This of course is commensurate to their training. But aids and assistants, they can further advance into their physical therapy career. That is, of course if they pursue further studies and move on to being physical therapists. An aid can become an assistant or furthermore a physical therapist, and an assistant, they can advance into being a full-fledged therapist. As for the physical therapist, what do they do? A physical therapist provides a wider coverage of services for the patient. These can be to limit, prevent or restore permanent physical disabilities. This debilitation can be the result of a disabling disease or condition, or again injury due to accidents. Patients under these categories can be those with back pain, arthritis, cerebral palsy, fracture, Parkinson’s disease, heart disease and head injuries. What physical therapists do is that they help patients gain better mobility. They perform procedures which would restore the patient’s functions and relieve their pain and suffering. Therapy and exercises are included in the treatment. They are employed to patients who lack flexibility, strength and endurance. The procedures that physical therapists do are aimed at building up the muscles of the patients and improve their flexibility and strength. And coordination and range of motion in the patient’s faculties, they are also enhanced. Physical therapists often work with other healthcare professionals. Career advancements for them include being a team member in a healthcare clinic. They can also accept a position in a private healthcare agency. For aids, assistants and therapists themselves, career growth is always possible as demand rises in the field of physical therapy. About the author. Dr. Rose Windale is a successful Health & Wellness Coach who has been advising and coaching individuals for many years. Rose now decided to share her knowledge through this site, Healthzine.org. You can sign up for her free weekly newsletter and learn how to become truly healthy and happy. Wed, 16 Jan 2008 18:12:38 +0100 http://www.healthzine.org/Physical-therapy/physical-therapy1 http://www.healthzine.org/Physical-therapy/physical-therapy1 What exactly is physical therapy? Who needs it and who would benefit from it? How is physical therapy further categorized? How can you gain optimum results out of this therapy? Physical therapy is a form of treatment which would ensure that your body is optimally mobile. Physical therapy is also known as physiotherapy, and it can possibly preserve your age lifelong. And that’s literally speaking. Physical therapy is a form of treatment which advocates optimal functional mobility. It acknowledges this as an indicator of good health. What are the different massages involved in physical therapy? To know them, first you should know about the different forms of physical therapy. Primarily there is Neurological physiotherapy. Neurological physiotherapy is the most complex form of physical therapy. When done properly, neurological physiotherapy would ensure that the motor functions and nerve cells are in proper working condition. Physiotherapy reduces motor defects which cause an impairment of the functioning of the nerve cells. Then there is musculoskeletal physiotherapy. This sort of physiotherapy is primarily employed for treatment of pain in the tissues and joints and the like. For this physiotherapy treatment, various techniques are applied. They can be exercises and manual therapies, and treatments making use of electrophysical agents. These electrophysical agents may be heat therapy, cryotherapy and other similar forms of treatment. Proper diagnosis is necessary so that musculoskeletal physiotherapy will be effective. Cardiopulmonary physiotherapy on the other hand is used for complex internal issues. They may involve irregularities concerning bronchitis, asthma and acute respiratory conditions. Ailments of this nature involve the throat and the chest and even cysts. Any physical modality is less likely to be effective in treating these ailments. The benefits to be gained out of physical therapy? Quite a host of them, and quite fulfilling at that. For one thing, physical therapy delivers physical relief. When the physical therapy massage is done properly, it can reduce physical pain. Physical therapy is also multifaceted in that it can also bring about mental relief. Yes, there are quite significant mental benefits from physical therapy. An efficient physical therapy massage can relieve a person of much tension. A physiotherapy massage can ease the nerves and the muscles. It ensures that the circulatory system functions properly. This can bring about tremendous relief and relaxation, not to mention numerous health benefits. But it is critical that physical therapy is not used as a stand alone treatment. Physiotheraoy must be applied based on a sound medical diagnosis of the ailment. For instance, a person is suffering from pain in their wrist. It has to be initially properly diagnosed with the help of pathology reports and x-rays. It is then that the doctor would recommend physiotherapy. Otherwise there can be serious consequences. Undoubtedly, physiotherapy is an intensive and effective treatment. But it entails that the therapy be applied within the proper context. The ailment must properly be diagnosed. It is then that physical therapy can be applied accordingly after it has been determined how and what kind of therapy is to be implemented. As mentioned, physical therapy is not a stand alone treatment. It is used in conjunction with other forms of diagnostic modalities and techniques. About the author. Dr. Rose Windale is a successful Health & Wellness Coach who has been advising and coaching individuals for many years. Rose now decided to share her knowledge through this site, Healthzine.org. You can sign up for her free weekly newsletter and learn how to become truly healthy and happy.