Get Started
Get Started
570-558-0290

Part II of II

Last week’s column was dedicated to Rosie Malloy as we discussed the importance of laughter for health and wellness. In this column, I will discuss one of the most understated benefits of exercise – mental health! Specifically, aerobic exercise (exercise that increases your heart rate for 30 minutes or more) such as walking, biking, running, swimming, hiking, elliptical & stepper machines to name a few, is the secret to “runner’s high.” This exercise euphoria is not limited to runners alone, but all who engage in aerobic exercise are more likely to experience high energy, positive attitude, and mental wellness by helping reduce depression.

Physical activity, specifically aerobic exercise, is a scientifically proven useful tool for preventing and easing depression symptoms. Studies in the British Journal of Medicine and the Journal of Exercise and Sports Science found that depression scores were significantly reduced in groups that engaged in aerobic running, jogging or walking programs, 30-45 minutes 3-5 days per week for 10-12 weeks, when compared to a control group and a psychotherapy counseling group.

Depression is the most common mental disorder and is twice as common among women as in men. Symptoms include: fatigue, sleeplessness, decreased appetite, decreased sexual interest, weight change, and constipation. Many of these symptoms are likely to bring an individual to their family physician. Unfortunately, depression is on the increase in the United States. According to the National Ambulatory Medical Care Survey, in the 1990’s, 7 million visits to a primary care physician were for the treatment of depression. 10 years later the number doubled.

HOW EXERCISE REDUCES DEPRESSION:

According to copious amounts of scientific research, exercise improves health and wellness and reduces depression in two ways, psychologically (mentally) and physiological (physically). 

Psychological or Mental Benefits of Exercise on Depression:

Physiological or Physical Benefits of Exercise on Depression:

HOW TO BEGIN EXERCISE FOR DEPRESSION:

  1. First and most importantly, consult your primary care physician to confirm the diagnosis of depression. Be sure that your symptoms are not related to other health problems. Also, if you are using antidepressants or other medications discuss the impact it may have on your exercise program with your physician.
  2. Recognize and fight depression symptoms that are contrary to or prohibit physical activity such as: fatigue, lack of energy, slow motor skills. Work hard to recognize and overcome these symptoms to begin an exercise program. An aerobic exercise routine should eventually lessen these symptoms.
  3. Be realistic. Expect that aerobic exercise will take time to have a noticeable benefit. Do not get overly ambitious and set yourself up for failure.
  4. Begin with an aerobic exercise program that is practical and destined to succeed. For example: inactive and deconditioned people should begin walking 5 minutes per day, 3-5 days per week for 1 week. Then, add 3-5 minutes each week until you attain 30-45 minutes per walk 3-5 times per week. Younger and fitter people can begin to walk for 15 minutes and continue until they attain 45-60 minutes per walk, 3-5 times per week. Remember, what seems impossible today will be easier and more routine in 3-4 weeks so JUST DO IT !
  5. Find a pleasurable environment: a beautiful park (Nay Aug), a scenic lake (Lake Scranton), quiet countryside (rural farmlands of Dalton). Use a mall in inclement weather.
  6. Find a friendly, uplifting group of people to enjoy a good walk and talk. This may be more appropriate for people feeling isolated or withdrawn. Others may enjoy the peace and quiet of exercising and meditating alone.
  7. Be specific and compliant! Make a serious commitment. Keep a journal or exercise log. Mark a calendar. 30-45 minutes, 3-5 days per week – NO EXCUSES! Get and exercise buddy you can count on and help keep you compliant!
  8. Make it fun! Mix it up. Walk 3 days, swim or bike 1-2 days, some days alone, some days with a buddy.
  9. BE RELIGIOUS! Be religious about exercise BUT don’t get too compulsive!

SOURCES: British Journal of Medicine: Journal of Exercise and Sports Science

EVERY MONDAY – Read Dr. Paul J. Mackarey “Health & Exercise Forum!” via Blog

EVERY SUNDAY in "The Sunday Times" - Read Dr. Paul J. Mackarey “Health & Exercise Forum!” in hard copy

This article is not intended as a substitute for medical treatment. If you have questions related to your medical condition, please contact your family physician. For further inquires related to this topic email: drpmackarey@msn.comPaul J. Mackarey PT, DHSc, OCS is a Doctor in Health Sciences specializing in orthopedic and sports physical therapy in Scranton and Clarks Summit. Dr. Mackarey is in private practice and is an associate professor of clinical medicine at Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine. For all of Dr. Mackarey's articles, visit our exercise forum!

Weeks into the New Year…Are You Holding on to Your Resolutions?!

I am sure that many of you feel as I do…it is hard to believe that I am living in the year 2025! Moreover, I hope you share my sentiments that each year, despite the trials and challenges of each month, week, day, and minute, is a gift, not to be taken for granted and 2025 is no different. And that is why we resolve at this time each year to make a concerted effort to improve ourselves; mentally, physically and spiritually, so that we may live a longer and healthier life, to spend more time with the friends and family we love.  

Not surprisingly, getting physically fit and losing weight are the top resolutions to begin each New Year, even 2025. According to the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, 10 million Americans choose to join one of the 45,000 health clubs and hope to get fit and healthy for life. Unfortunately, if starting an exercise program is the hard part, than sticking to it is the hardest part.

Once the initial excitement and enthusiasm wears off after the 2025 new year, so does the discipline and determination necessary to overcome the many distractions in our lives to make exercise a priority for life. Diane Klein, PhD polled long-term exercisers (those exercising at least 3 times per week for more than 13 years) what motivated them to “stick with the program.” The answers are in order of importance. Please note that “appearance” was NOT at the top of the list.

10 Motivators to Stick to an Exercise Program in 2025:

Tips to Stick to an Exercise Program:

  1. Add variety to your program – stick to your basic program to meet your goals but add variety to stick to your program. On off days walk in the woods, snowshoe, play tennis or pickleball, ride a bike, and swim. One day do upper body and the next lower body.
  2. Find an exercise buddy – no one wants to let their buddy down so the likelihood of compliance is much greater when you have someone depending on you. Make sure it is a good match…someone with positive energy!
  3. Make exercise a priority – friends and family must understand that this is important to you. It is a non-negotiable part of your day, like taking a vitamin or brushing your teeth.
  4. Exercise first thing in the morning – For many people it is best to exercise before all the demands of the day come into play
  5. Exercise on the way home from work – For others, it is best to exercise after they fulfill their other obligations but before they get home, eat and settle in. Some days it will vary.
  6. Exercise even when you are tired – keep in mind that you will be energized after you exercise.
  7. Keep a log of your exercise – writing down the dates, times, speed, distance, reps and sets can help you monitor your progress.
  8. Look for signs of progress – the scale is only one sign of progress. Make note of how your clothes fit, how much energy you have, the pep in your step and the improvement in your exercise log.
  9. Walk – incorporate walking into your daily routine. Walk to the store, walk the dog, walk when you play golf and take the stairs.
  10. Reward yourself – this is an individual preference but try to avoid a food overdose. For example, buy a new dress when you lose 10 pounds, go awayfor the weekend for the next 10 pounds. Do whatever works for you.
  11. Monitor Progress – Use Technology – Fitness Apps, Smart Watches, Electronic Fitness Monitors or Wearable Tech Monitor provide feedback and motivation.These devices use GPS technology to help the user track their activity to get more out of their exercise routines. They monitor activity, heart rate, distance, location, calories, and more. Some examples are: Pedometers , Activity Trackers, Running Watches, and Heart Rate Monitors
  12. Personal Trainer Gift Certificate or Home Virtual Trainers - This can be an opportunity for someone to either get the proper advice from a professional (in person or virtually) to begin a fitness program or to revamp and tune up an old stale program. Word of mouth is a good way to find a reputable certified trainer. Virtual Examples are: Peloton – (bike, treadmill); Mirror Exercise and FightCamp

Source: WebMD, Mayo Clinic

     Visit your doctor regularly and listen to your body.     

     Keep moving, eat healthy foods, exercise regularly, and live long and well!

EVERY MONDAY – Read Dr. Paul J. Mackarey “Health & Exercise Forum!” via Blog

EVERY SUNDAY in "The Sunday Times" - Read Dr. Paul J. Mackarey “Health & Exercise Forum!” in hard copy

This article is not intended as a substitute for medical treatment. If you have questions related to your medical condition, please contact your family physician. For further inquires related to this topic email: drpmackarey@msn.com

Paul J. Mackarey PT, DHSc, OCS is a Doctor in Health Sciences specializing in orthopedic and sports physical therapy in Scranton and Clarks Summit. Dr. Mackarey is in private practice and is an associate professor of clinical medicine at Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine. For all of Dr. Mackarey's articles, visit our exercise forum!

While I normally do not address the topic of shoveling snow until January, considering recent weather events, I thought it might be valuable to present it sooner. Much has been written about the dangers of snow shoveling for your heart. However, while not fatal, low back pain is the most common injury sustained while shoveling snow. Heart attacks are also more common following wet and heavy snow.

Snow shoveling can place excessive stress on the structures of the spine. When overloaded and overstressed, these structures fail to support the spine properly. The lower back is at great risk of injury when bending forward, twisting, lifting a load, and lifting a load with a long lever. When all these factors are combined simultaneously, as in snow shoveling, the lower back is destined to fail. Low back pain from muscle strain or a herniated disc is very common following excessive snow shoveling.

Snow Shoveling as a Form of Exercise:

People at High Risk of Illness Due to Snow Shoveling:

10 TIPS FOR SAFE SNOW SHOVELING:

  1. MEDICAL CLEARANCE: If you have any medical condition or risk factors consult your physician.
  2. PAIN: Stop immediately if you experience any pain. Especially in the chest, left arm, jaw, face, neck, or lower back.
  3. ERGONOMICS: Choose a snow shovel that is right for you:
    1. An ergonomic shovel with a curved handle allows you to keep your back straighter or arched when shoveling
    1. An ergonomic shovel with a shorter or adjustable handle length allows you to keep your back straighter and knees bent when shoveling. The right handle length allows you to arch your back 10 degrees with your knees slightly bent when the shovel is on the ground.
    1. A plastic shovel blade is lighter than a metal one and will be better for your spine.
    1. A smaller blade is better than a larger blade. It may take longer but will stress your back less.
  4. PUSH: When possible, push the snow. Do not lift it. Lifting is much more stressful on the spine. You can find shovels that are ergonomically designed just for pushing snow.
  5. WARM – UP: Be sure your muscles are warm before you start to shovel. Cold and tight muscles are more likely to strain than warm, relaxed muscles. Layer and consider compression shirts or tights can help prevent cold and tight muscles.
  6. LEVERAGE: When you grip your shovel, spread your hands at least 12 inches apart. This will improve your leverage and reduce strain on your lower back.
  7. TECHNIQUE: Shoveling technique is very important. The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons recommends:
    • Squat with your legs apart, knees bent and back straight.
    • Lift with your legs. Do not bend at the waist.
    • Scoop small amounts of snow into the shovel and walk when you want to dump it.
    • Do not hold the filled shovel with outstretched arms.
    • If snow is deep, remove in piecemeal, a few inches at a time.
    • Rest and repeat as necessary.
    • Move your feet and do not twist your back as you shovel or dump. Never throw snow over your shoulder
  8. CAUTION: Be cautious shoveling wet snow. One full shovel can weigh 25 pounds.
    • Shovel wet snow slowly in piecemeal.
  9. PACE YOURSELF: Take frequent breaks and stretch your back in the opposite direction of shoveling. For example: 1. Lean backwards and extend your lower back. 2. Pinch your shoulder blades together.
  10. TECHNOLOGY:
    • Snow Blower - Use a self-propelled snow blower. It will put much less stress on your lower back than shoveling snow if used correctly. For example, push the blower with your legs and keep your back straight or arched and knees bent.
    • Ergonomic Shovels:
    • 2 Handle Shovels: ErgieShovel or Snow Joe Shovelution
      • Push Shovels: Garant Yukon or Garant Sleigh Shovel
    • Snow Melting Alternatives:
    • www.warmlyyours.com - WarmlyYours - HeatTrak® portable snowmelting system for roofs, gutters, driveways, sidewalks, stairs and handicapped ramps uses electric mats or runners for home or office which can be customized.

Sources: The Colorado Comprehensive Spine Institute; American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons 

Visit your doctor regularly and listen to your body.     

EVERY MONDAY – Read Dr. Paul J. Mackarey “Health & Exercise Forum!” via Blog

EVERY SUNDAY in "The Sunday Times" - Read Dr. Paul J. Mackarey “Health & Exercise Forum!” in hard copy

This article is not intended as a substitute for medical treatment. If you have questions related to your medical condition, please contact your family physician. For further inquires related to this topic email: drpmackarey@msn.com

Paul J. Mackarey PT, DHSc, OCS is a Doctor in Health Sciences specializing in orthopedic and sports physical therapy in Scranton and Clarks Summit. Dr. Mackarey is in private practice and is an associate professor of clinical medicine at Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine. For all of Dr. Mackarey's articles, visit our exercise forum!

Recently, two patients asked me when I thought it would be safe for them to return to their exercise programs after abdominal surgery. She stated that she was not sure how to properly and safely implement or return to her program.

This column will attempt to ensure a safe return to activity and exercise following general surgery such as gall bladder, appendix, hernia, etc. The post-operative patient has many questions: When is it safe to begin an exercise program? How do I begin? What is the best exercise? Which exercises are best? How do I know if the activity is too intense or not intense enough? Are there safe guidelines?

Before you begin, discuss your intention to exercise with your surgeon and  primary care physician. Get medical clearance to make sure you can exercise safely. With the exception of short daily walks, don’t be disappointed if your surgeon requires you to wait at least until your 6 week post-op check-up to begin exercise.

While a 60 minute workout would be the long term goal, begin slowly at 15-20-30 minutes and add a few minutes each week. Make time to warm up and cool down.

Warm-up                                 5-10 minutes

Strength Training                    10-15-20 minutes

Aerobic                                   10-15-20 minutes

Cool down                              5-10 minutes

How to Monitor Your Exercise Program:

First, determine your resting heart rate by taking your HR (pulse) using your index finger on the thumb side of your wrist for 30 seconds and multiply it by two. 80 beats per minute is considered a normal HR but it varies. This is a good baseline to use as a goal to return to upon completion of your workout. For example, your HR may increase to 150 during exercise, but you want to return to your pre exercise HR (80) within 3-5 minutes after you complete the workout.

For those who are healthy, calculating your target heart rate (HR) is an easy and useful tool to monitor exercise intensity.

220 – Your Age = Maximum Heart Rate

EXAMPLE for a 45 year old: 220 – 45 = 175 beats per minute should not be exceeded during exercise.

            For those concerned about calories expended during exercise.

NOTE: Keep the level at a light/moderate level for the first four to six weeks and advance to the moderate/heavy at week six. The Very Heavy Level may not be appropriate for 12 weeks post op is for those who have a reasonable fitness level and exercise 4-5 days per week.

Example of Data Found on Fitness Equipment

Remember, this is only accurate if you program your correct height, weight and age.

Level                          kCal/min                    MET

Light                              2 - 4.9                     1.6 – 3.9

Moderate                        5 - 7.4                     4 – 5.9

Heavy                          7.5 - 9.9                     6 - 7.9

Very Heavy                  10 - 12.4                   8 – 9.9

Always secure physician approval before engaging in an exercise program.
If the patient is on beta blockers (Atenolol, Bisoprolol, etc), it is important to use the Borg Rating of Perceived Exertion Scale (RPE) scale to determine safe exercise stress since exercise will not increase HR as expected:

0 - Nothing at all
1 - Very light
2 - Light
3 - Moderate
4 - Somewhat intense
5 - Intense (heavy)
6
7 - Very intense
8
9 - Very, very intense
10 - Maximum Intensity

NOTE: Keep the RPE at 2-3 the first 6 weeks post op and advance to level 3-4 at 8-12 weeks post op. Levels 5-6-7 are for those with a reasonable fitness level and exercise 4-5 days per week. The advanced levels should not be attained until 2-3 months of exercise and 3-4 months post op.

MEDICAL CONTRIBUTOR: Timothy Farrell, MD, is a general surgeon at GCMC.

EVERY MONDAY – Read Dr. Paul J. Mackarey “Health & Exercise Forum!” via Blog

EVERY SUNDAY in "The Sunday Times" - Read Dr. Paul J. Mackarey “Health & Exercise Forum!” in hard copy

This article is not intended as a substitute for medical treatment. If you have questions related to your medical condition, please contact your family physician. For further inquires related to this topic email: drpmackarey@msn.com

Paul J. Mackarey PT, DHSc, OCS is a Doctor in Health Sciences specializing in orthopedic and sports physical therapy in Scranton and Clarks Summit. Dr. Mackarey is in private practice and is an associate professor of clinical medicine at Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine. For all of Dr. Mackarey's articles, visit our exercise forum!

Part II of II  

Introduction:

As most sports enthusiasts know, Aaron Rodgers, former Green Bay Packer quarterback and recent New York Jets QB (for just over a minute and half) suffered a season ending injury when he tore his Achilles tendon in the first game of the 2023/24 NFL season. Since then, I have been answering many questions from patients and sports fans about the nature of the Achilles Tendon rupture injury, recovery, and how to prevent it.

As the days continue to get shorter and temperatures begin a slow steady decline, athletes and exercise enthusiasts will work harder to warm-up and exercise during the winter months. A little caution and preparation are in order to avoid muscle/tendon strain, or worse yet, muscle/tendon tears, especially Achilles Tendon rupture. The Achilles tendon is one of the more common tendons torn.

This is the second of two columns on Achilles tendon rupture. Last week, I discussed the definition, sign and symptoms of the problem. This week will present examination, treatment and outcomes.

Achilles Tendon Rupture Exams and Tests:

A thorough history and physical exam is the first and best method to assess the extent of the injury and determine accurate diagnosis. While a complete tear is relatively easy to determine, a partial or incomplete tear is less clear. Ultrasound and MRI are valuable tests in these cases. X-rays are not usually used and will not show tendon damage.

Achilles Tendon Rupture Treatment:

Initial First Aide Treatment:
Early Treatment - Conservative:
Surgery:

Consultation with an orthopedic or podiatric surgeon will determine the best treatment option for you. When conservative measures fail and for tendons completely torn, surgical intervention is usually considered to be the best option with a lower incidence of re-rupture. Surgery involves reattaching the two torn ends. In some instances, a graft using another tendon is required. A cast or walking boot is used post-operatively for 6-8 weeks followed by physical therapy. 

Outcome:

Most people return to close to normal activity with proper management. In the competitive athlete or very active individual, surgery offers the best outcome for those with significant or complete tears, to withstand the rigors of sports. Also, an aggressive rehabilitation program will expedite the process and improve the outcome. Walking with full weight on the leg after surgery usually begins at 6 -8 weeks and often requires a heel lift to protect the tendon. Advanced exercises often begin at 12 weeks and running and jumping 5-6 months. While a small bump remains on the tendon at the site of surgery, the tendon is well healed at 6 months and re-injury does not usually occur.

Achilles Tendon Rupture Prevention:

Prevention of muscle and tendon tears is critical for healthy longevity in sports and activities. In addition to the Achilles tendon, the tendons of the quadriceps (knee) and rotator cuff (shoulder) are also vulnerable. A comprehensive prevention program includes: gradual introduction to new activities, good overall conditioning, sport specific training, pre-stretch warm-up, stretch, strengthening, proper shoes, clothing, and equipment for the sport and conditions. Also, utilizing interval training, eccentric exercise (lowering body weight slowly against gravity – Photo 1) and proprioceptive and agility drills are essential (Photos 2 & 3). 

Photo 1a
Photo 1b

In PHOTO 1a & 1b: Eccentric Lowering and Lengthening: for the Achillies tendon during exercise. Beginning on the ball of both feet (1a), bend the strong knee to shift the weight onto the weak leg (1b). Slowly lowering the ankle/heel to the ground over 5-6 seconds. Repeat.

Photo 2
Photo 3

In PHOTO 2: Proprioceptive Training: for the Achillies tendon. Standing on a Bosu Ball while exercising the upper body (for example, biceps curls, shrugs, rows, lats) while maintaining balance on the ball.

PHOTO 3: Agility Drills: for the Achilles tendon involves stepping through a “gait ladder” in various patterns and at various speeds. 

MODEL: Kerry McGrath, student physical therapy aide at Mackarey Physical Therapy

Sources: MayoClinic.com;Christopher C Nannini, MD, Northwest Medical Center;Scott H Plantz, MD, Mount Sinai School of Medicine

EVERY MONDAY – Read Dr. Paul J. Mackarey “Health & Exercise Forum!” via Blog

EVERY SUNDAY in "The Sunday Times" - Read Dr. Paul J. Mackarey “Health & Exercise Forum!” in hard copy

This article is not intended as a substitute for medical treatment. If you have questions related to your medical condition, please contact your family physician. For further inquires related to this topic email: drpmackarey@msn.com

Paul J. Mackarey PT, DHSc, OCS is a Doctor  in Health Sciences specializing in orthopedic and sports physical therapy. Dr. Mackarey is in private practice and is an associate professor of clinical medicine at GCSOM. For all of Dr. Mackarey's articles, visit our exercise forum!