Osteoarthritis, the most common type of arthritis, is often considered to be a normal part of aging. Usually by the age of forty our joints, especially those which are weight bearing (lower spine, hips, knees, ankles, feet) begin to show signs of wear and tear. The cartilage begins to thin, joint surfaces are not as […]
October is National Physical Therapy Month! The American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) would like to raise public awareness of the thousands of dedicated physical therapists as health care providers. Moreover, physical therapists would like to thank the public for allowing us to participate in your health and wellness. This column will address a question […]
My grandmother, Rosina Scalese, lived to the wise old age of ninety- seven. I have inherited her coveted “pock a book” in which she always kept one dollar bills to give to any child kind enough to visit her. Now, I find myself hoping to inherit another prized possession from my grandmother… her longevity genes! […]
Scoliosis Part 2 of 2. Idiopathic And Adult Scoliosis. Scoliosis is a term used to describe a curvature of the spine. This two part series on scoliosis will discuss scoliosis, diagnosis, and treatment at the request of several readers. Scoliosis screening is very important for early intervention and prevention of long term and irreversible problems. Idiopathic […]
Scoliosis: Part 1 of 2. Functional Scoliosis. Scoliosis is a term used to describe a curvature of the spine. This two part series on scoliosis will discuss scoliosis, diagnosis, and treatment at the request of several readers. Scoliosis screening is very important for early intervention and prevention of long term and irreversible problems. The spine has […]
1st of 2 Columns I have been advising my patients to exercise, keep active, and walk as long as they can in order to stay mobile and healthy. However, seniors often tell me activities that require prolonged walking is limited by ankle pain from arthritis. They often ask, “What is arthritis of the ankle?” How […]
Does anyone in your immediate family resemble the the hunchback of Notre Dame? If so, you too, could be in jeopardy of developing osteoporosis when you get older! While genetics can play an important role, recent studies strongly suggest that healthy habits as a young person are extremely important for the prevention of osteoporosis as […]
While there is no cure for osteoporosis, being proactive can prevent, slow or stop the progression of this disease. As discussed in last week’s column, a healthy lifestyle, avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol use, a well - balanced diet – rich in calcium and vitamin D, and weight –bearing exercises – such as walking and weight training are essential in the prevention and treatment of this disease.
One topic that is constantly resurfacing for physical therapists is osteoporosis. This week’s column will review the definition, cause and prevention. Next week, I will present the 10 best exercises to prevent osteoporosis.
How many times have you heard the phrase “My back is killing me!” Almost every American has had an episode of back pain themselves, or knows someone who has had significant back pain. Acute low back pain (LBP) is one of the most common health maladies in the United States and is the leading cause of disability in people younger than 45 years old. It is responsible billions of dollars in health care costs, and is a leading cause of missed work.
