New Leaf Physical Therapy

Stephanie

Is Your Smartphone The Problem?

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Are You Developing Smartphone Neck?

The normal curves of the spine reduce the stress in our spine by 10 times. That may be hard to believe, but think about a spring—by being curved, it does not bend at one point, but the stress is absorbed throughout the spring. The same is true of our spine in that the curves help to absorb shock and stress.
The normal curves of the spine reduce the stress in our spine by 10 times. That may be hard to believe, but think about a spring—by being curved, it does not bend at one point, but the stress is absorbed throughout the spring. The same is true of our spine in that the curves help to absorb shock and stress.
Read more in the above patient handout to see what postures are causing changes to these normal curves and how you can correct them.  If you are already having symptoms you should see a PT and get the appropriate help to reverse these changes and make your body and spine more efficient again.

No Gym Equipment Needed

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The Scientific 7-Minute Workout

http://well.blogs.nytimes.com/2013/05/09/the-scientific-7-minute-workout/?emc=eta1

If you have been to my office you know that I do not have big gym equipment and often tell clients that the best workouts do not require any.  Gravity, and our own body weight is often enough to work out and enhance postural alignment.

Well now scientists are on board too!  Check out this article from a recent NY Times.

In 12 exercises deploying only body weight, a chair and a wall, it fulfills the latest mandates for high-intensity effort, which essentially combines a long run and a visit to the weight room into about seven minutes of steady discomfort — all of it based on science.

Bone Health

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Osteoporosis Preventative Measures

This is a great article highlighting important tips to help prevent or slow osteoporosis and support good bone health.  Because bone loss results from both genetic and environmental factors, experts recommend that you also understand your personal risk of osteoporosis.

A bone density test will measure a small part of one or a few bones to evaluate the strength of your bones and potential risk for osteoporosis.

Click on the pictures in this article to learn more.  Weight bearing exercises and strength training are huge factors in supporting our bones.  For more information talk to you PT and MD today.

Considering Knee Surgery? Think Again… then Try PT

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Study: Physical therapy as effective as surgery for patients with meniscal tear, knee OA

Physical therapy was as effective at treating meniscal tears and knee osteoarthritis as arthroscopic surgery, according to this study from the New England Journal of Medicine.

http://www.healio.com/orthopedics/rehabilitation/news/online/%7BA2BB86F9-0368-4675-8690-FAD14D59CDA1%7D/Study-Physical-therapy-as-effective-as-surgery-for-patients-with-meniscal-tear-knee-OA

Do You Suffer From Migraines???

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Physical therapy reduces symptoms of migraine

http://www.healthcanal.com/mental-health-behavior/36565-Physical-therapy-reduces-symptoms-migraine.html

Over the years I have helped quite a few people who suffer from constant and highly aggravating migraines.  I find that women especially have been open to the idea of physical therapy for their migraines when they are trying or have become pregnant and need alternatives to migraine medication.  I have seen great results using a combination of manual therapy techniques, with prescribed exercises for stretching, strengthening, re-alignment, and stress reduction.  Most of the articles and studies like this one will open the door for more people to be aware that there are more options than suffering or intense medications to help with their migraines.