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.
Summer is finally here and gardeners in northeast PA are anxious work in their gardens and enjoy the fruits of their labor. I have noticed that my associate, Nancy Wesolowski, certified hand therapist, has recently had an influx of patients with hand injuries associated with gardening.
This week, I would like to discuss the benefits of cardiovascular exercise and common problems that develop from biking on an improperly fitted bike.
Total ankle replacement (TAR) is recommended for severe ankle pain which has not responded to conservative treatment: weight loss, activity modification, physical therapy, and anti-inflammatory medication and cortisone injections.
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 it happen? What can I do about it?
Eating disorders are becoming epidemic in athletes. This is the second of three columns addressing this topic.
Over the past several years I have worked with many young female athletes that have suffered from injuries often associated with low body fat and poor bone density such as repeated stress fractures. In certain sports such as running and gymnastics this can be devastating. One thought that comes to mind is whether or not the young female athlete may also have an eating disorder.
Casts or splints are used to support and protect bones and soft tissues after injury or surgery. A broken bone or severe ankle sprains are two good examples. The immobilization provided by a cast or splint protects the injury, allows healing with proper alignment, and reduces pain, swelling and muscle spasm.
Judging by my email inquiries on this topic, it is fairly safe to say that most readers of this column either directly or indirectly know of someone who has Multiple Sclerosis (MS). MS has been a part of my life as a physical therapist, friend, and relative of some very incredible people and their families, […]
Multiple Sclerosis is a chronic disease. While it may lay dormant and stable for a period of time, living a healthy lifestyle will make a positive contribution toward how you and your family live with MS. Studies show that a life of family love and support are essential to maintain a positive attitude with a […]
