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Spring into Action: Changes in Weather Change Your Activity Level

March 26, 2024

Spring is in the air, and that means more than just blooming flowers and chirping birds. It’s a natural nudge to shake off the winter blues and be more active. Research that looked at the seasonality of physical activity proves this is true. Across a wide variety of countries and populations, people are most active in the summer and less active in the winter. 

Since it’s likely that your physical activity levels are starting to trend up, we wanted to give you a few fun ideas to try, and some tips on how to navigate the change. 

Embrace the Great Outdoors:

• Trade the treadmill for the trail: As the weather warms, escape the gym and head outside. Explore nature with hikes, bike rides, or even a walk or jog around the park. Soaking up the sunshine not only boosts your vitamin D levels but also enhances your mood and motivation.
• Turn your park into your playground: Public parks offer tons of fitness opportunities. Utilize the equipment for bodyweight exercises, join a pick-up game of basketball, play a round of disc golf, or find an outdoor fitness class.

Incorporate Seasonal Activities:

• Get active with seasonal sports: Participating in spring sports leagues like volleyball, softball, pickleball or tennis is a fun and social way to get moving. You’ll meet new people while engaging in friendly competition and getting some exercise.
• Cultivate your green thumb: Gardening is a surprisingly active hobby. Digging, planting, and tending to your garden provides a full-body workout while connecting you with nature.

Navigating The Changes

• Spring clean your activity plan: Just like your home, your exercise routine might need a spring cleaning. Evaluate your current program, identify areas for improvement, and think about what new exercises or activities you’d like to add. 
• Don’t spring forward too fast: Spring is an exciting time with longer days, better weather and new opportunities. Don’t take on too much too fast. Injuries from overuse and overtraining start to get more common in our clinics when people ramp activity up too fast.
• Celebrate your progress: Track your progress and acknowledge your achievements, no matter how small. This will keep you motivated and focused on your goals.

Spring is a season of growth. Let it be the catalyst for your own personal transformation. By embracing the outdoors, incorporating seasonal activities, and refreshing your routine, you can spring into action and experience the joy of a healthier and happier you.

If you’d like someone to evaluate your current plan or develop a new one for you, we’d be happy to help! And of course, we’re always here for aches and pains from too much too soon, or weekend warrior injuries from those spring sports.

References:

1. Sex- and age-specific seasonal variations in physical activity among adults. Journal of Epidemiology & Community Health 2010;64:1010-1016. https://jech.bmj.com/content/64/11/1010.short
2. Impact of Seasonality on Physical Activity: A Systematic Review. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. 2022; 19(1):2. https://www.mdpi.com/1660-4601/19/1/2
3. The Effect of Season and Weather on Physical Activity: Systemic Review https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0033350607001400
4. Seasonal Rhythms and Exercise https://www.sportsmed.theclinics.com/article/S0278-5919(04)00120-6/fulltext
5. Exercise Assessment and Prescription in Older Adults Webinar https://learningcenter.apta.org/products/exercise-assessment-and-prescription-in-older-adults-and-individuals-at-risk-for-functional-decline?_gl=1*2t7olk*_ga*MTEwNjIzMzg2MS4xNjgxODQyODcw*_ga_ZZJK74HXNR*MTY5NzIwMjg2OC4xMi4xLjE2OTcyMDI4ODEuNDcuMC4w&_ga=2.227565085.1495021570.1697197738-1106233861.1681842870
6. Exercise Attitudes https://www.apta.org/article/2023/03/31/exercise-attitudes

How Can Physical Therapy help with Osgood Schlatter Issues?

March 19, 2024

Osgood-Schlatter disease is a condition that affects the growth plate at the top of the shinbone (tibia) where the tendon from the kneecap (patellar tendon) attaches. It commonly occurs in children and adolescents who are experiencing growth spurts, particularly those who participate in sports that involve running, jumping, or quick changes in direction.

Physical therapy can play a significant role in managing Osgood-Schlatter disease by addressing symptoms, reducing pain, and promoting proper biomechanics. Here are some ways physical therapy may be helpful:

Pain management

Physical therapists can use modalities such as ice, heat, ultrasound, or electrical stimulation to help alleviate pain and inflammation in the affected area.

Stretching exercises

Tightness in the quadriceps muscles and surrounding structures can exacerbate symptoms of Osgood-Schlatter disease. Physical therapists can prescribe stretching exercises to improve flexibility and reduce tension in these muscles.

Strengthening exercises

Weakness in the quadriceps, hamstrings, and hip muscles can contribute to biomechanical imbalances and increase stress on the knee joint. Physical therapists can design a strengthening program to target these muscle groups, helping to stabilize the knee and improve overall function.

Activity modification

Physical therapists can provide guidance on modifying activities and sports participation to reduce stress on the knee joint while allowing for continued participation in physical activity.

Biomechanical assessment and correction

A physical therapist can assess movement patterns and biomechanics during activities such as running or jumping. They can identify any issues with gait or movement mechanics that may be contributing to symptoms and provide corrective exercises or adjustments to improve alignment and reduce strain on the knee.

Patient Education

Physical therapists can educate patients and their families about Osgood-Schlatter disease, including its causes, symptoms, and prognosis. They can also provide guidance on home exercises, activity modification, and strategies for pain management.

It’s important for individuals with Osgood-Schlatter disease to seek guidance from a healthcare professional, such as a physical therapist or sports medicine physician, for an accurate diagnosis and comprehensive treatment plan. While Osgood-Schlatter disease often resolves on its own with time and appropriate management, physical therapy can help alleviate symptoms and improve function, allowing individuals to return to their normal activities more comfortably and safely.

Unlocking Your Physical Therapy Insurance Benefits

March 12, 2024

Physical therapy is often a vital component of recovering from injuries, managing chronic conditions, or simply improving one’s overall physical well-being. However, navigating the world of insurance benefits for physical therapy can be daunting and confusing. Understanding what your insurance covers, what it doesn’t, and how to maximize your benefits is crucial for ensuring you receive the care you need without breaking the bank.

Know Your Coverage

The first step in understanding your physical therapy insurance benefits is to know what your insurance plan covers. This information can typically be found in your insurance policy documents, or you can contact your insurance provider directly to inquire about your coverage. At Witte Physical Therapy we will look up your benefits for you and provide you with the information we receive from your insurance company. Some key questions to ask include:

– Does my plan cover physical therapy?

– How many sessions are covered per year?

– Do I need a referral from a primary care physician or specialist?

– Are there any limitations?

– What is my deductible, co-pay, and co-insurance for physical therapy services?

Understanding these details will give you a clearer picture of what to expect in terms of coverage and potential out-of-pocket costs.

Referrals and Prior Authorizations

Some insurance plans require a referral from a primary care physician or specialist before they will cover physical therapy services. Additionally, some plans may require prior authorization for physical therapy sessions. It’s essential to familiarize yourself with your insurance plan’s requirements regarding referrals and prior authorizations to avoid any unexpected denials of coverage. Witte Physical Therapy will help you understand if a referral or prior authorization is required and help you navigate the steps you need to take to get what is needed.

Understanding Deductibles, Co-Pays, and Co-Insurance

Deductibles, co-pays, and co-insurance are all important factors to consider when determining your out-of-pocket costs for physical therapy services. Here’s a brief overview of each:

Deductible

This is the amount you must pay out of pocket for covered services before your insurance plan starts to contribute. Once you’ve met your deductible, your insurance plan will typically cover a percentage of the cost of services, and you’ll be responsible for the remaining portion. You deductible does not change and is the same for any provider or medical service.

Co-Pay

A co-pay is a fixed amount that you pay for each physical therapy session, regardless of the total cost of the service. Co-pays can vary depending on your insurance plan and may apply to each session or be a one-time fee for a series of sessions.

Co-Insurance

Co-insurance is the percentage of the cost of services that you are responsible for paying after you’ve met your deductible. For example, if your insurance plan covers 80% of the cost of physical therapy services, you would be responsible for paying the remaining 20% as co-insurance.

Understanding how your deductible, co-pays, and co-insurance work together will help you estimate your out-of-pocket costs for physical therapy services and budget accordingly. At Witte Physical Therapy your therapist will review this information with you so that you understand what your benefits are and what your costs may be based on your specific insurance plan.

Maximizing Your Benefits

Once you understand your physical therapy insurance benefits, there are several strategies you can employ to maximize your coverage and minimize your out-of-pocket costs:

Stay In-Network

Choosing physical therapists who are in-network with your insurance plan can help you save money on out-of-pocket costs. In-network providers have negotiated rates with your insurance company, which are typically lower than out-of-network rates.

Appeal Denied Claims

If your insurance company denies coverage for physical therapy services, don’t be afraid to appeal their decision. Provide any necessary documentation, such as referrals or medical records, to support your claim and advocate for the coverage you’re entitled to.

Understanding your physical therapy insurance benefits is essential for ensuring that you receive the care you need without breaking the bank. By familiarizing yourself with your coverage, knowing your out-of-pocket costs, and employing strategies to maximize your benefits, you can navigate the complexities of insurance with confidence and focus on your journey to better health and wellness. If you have any questions or concerns about your physical therapy insurance benefits, don’t hesitate to reach out to your insurance provider or ask any of our therapists at Witte Physical Therapy.

How valuable is Manual Therapy?

March 5, 2024

Manual therapy is a hands-on approach that physical therapists use as part of their treatment interventions. It involves skilled manipulation and mobilization of joints and soft tissues to reduce pain, improve mobility, and enhance overall function. The value of manual therapy in physical therapy treatment is multifaceted, and it plays a crucial role in various aspects of patient care. Here are some key benefits:

Pain Reduction

No one likes to be in pain and manual therapy techniques, such as joint mobilization and soft tissue mobilization, can help alleviate pain by reducing muscle spasms, releasing tension, and improving blood circulation. This can provide immediate relief for individuals experiencing pain.

Improved Joint Mobility

Restricted joint mobility can result from various conditions, such as injuries or musculoskeletal disorders. Manual therapy can help restore and improve joint range of motion by addressing stiffness and promoting optimal movement patterns.

Soft Tissue Flexibility

Tight or shortened soft tissues (muscles, tendons, ligaments) can contribute to pain and restricted movement. Manual therapy techniques, like massage and stretching, can enhance the flexibility of these tissues, promoting better function and reducing the risk of future injuries.

Enhanced Circulation

Who wouldn’t want to feel better, faster? Manual therapy can help speed up the healing and recovery process. Manual therapy can stimulate blood flow to the treated area, promoting the delivery of nutrients and oxygen to tissues. Improved circulation can contribute to tissue healing and recovery.

Joint Stability

Certain manual therapy techniques focus on improving the stability of joints by addressing muscle imbalances and activating supporting musculature. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals with conditions like joint instability or hypermobility.

Neuromuscular Effects

Did you know that manual therapy can help improve your balance? Manual therapy can influence the nervous system, including pain modulation and proprioception (awareness of body position). By targeting specific receptors in tissues, therapists can positively impact neuromuscular function.

Complementary to Exercise

Manual therapy is often used in conjunction with therapeutic exercises to optimize outcomes. The combination of hands-on techniques and targeted exercises can address both acute and chronic musculoskeletal conditions.

It’s important to note that the effectiveness of manual therapy can vary based on the individual’s condition. Physical therapists undergo specialized training to develop proficiency in manual therapy techniques, ensuring safe and effective application for their patients. Additionally, manual therapy is typically just one component of a comprehensive physical therapy treatment plan tailored to the individual’s needs.

Sticking to your Exercise Program

February 28, 2024

New year’s resolutions around fitness and exercise are incredibly popular. The excitement and hope generated by the start of the year makes starting an exercise program easy.

Now that it’s February, staying with it gets hard. Life gets busy, motivation drops, and suddenly you’re back on the couch, wondering how you’re 6 episodes into The Golden Bachelor instead of at the gym. 

You know the benefits of exercise – they’re probably what motivated you to start exercising in the first place. If you need a reminder here are just a few:

• 3 hours of exercise a week reduced pain and disability by 47% in people with knee arthritis
• Exercise reduced the progression of dementia by 50%
• Exercise reduced the risk of hip fracture in post-menopausal women by 47%
• A meta analysis showed exercise decreased anxiety by 48%
• A low dose of exercise relieves depression in 30% of people, a higher dose woks for 47% of people
• A 12 year study of 10,000 Harvard alumni showed that people who exercised were 23% less likely to die
• Exercise is the #1 treatment for fatigue

Knowing that you should exercise or why you should exercise isn’t the problem. Actually getting up and doing it is. Here are our top tips for making sure you stick to your exercise plan:

Set realistic goals. Don’t try to go from zero to hero overnight. Start with small, achievable goals and increase them gradually. Make it easy to win – that helps you build motivation and an exercise habit. For some people that might mean starting with a daily 10 minute walk. For some people, that bar is too high.

When we say make it easy to win, we mean easy. Your goal could be to scan your card at the gym 3 times a week. It might be putting on your walking shoes and going out the door. It might be one pushup. Start tiny.

Do activities you enjoy. Exercise ins’t punishment. Choose activities that are fun. It could be running, walking the dog, dancing, swimming, kickboxing, or playing a sport.

Schedule it. Schedule your workouts like you would any other important appointment. When people ask you to do something else during that time, say “sorry, I’ve got an appointment.” The more you make exercise a routine, the less likely you are to skip it.

Don’t go it alone. Having someone waiting for you at the gym really motivates you to get there. Having support helps push you to work harder, and motivates you when you’re feeling down. Your support could be a friend, the other people in a group fitness class, or a trainer.

Mix it up. Try a new class. If you usually run at the same pace, try intervals. Walk a different route. Doing the same thing over and over again gets boring and leads to burnout. Keep things interesting to stay interested.

Track your progress. Bonus points if you find a way to make it visual somehow. Our brains love to see tasks checked off, a chart or numbers going up, and rings closing. Seeing how far you’ve come is a great motivator. Keep track of your workouts in a journal, make a spreadsheet, use an app or fitness tracker.

Bribes work. Celebrate your successes, no matter how small. Set a goal to work out 3 times this week and treat yourself to your favorite coffee when you do. Buy yourself a new workout outfit, get a massage, or anything else that will help you stay motivated when you reach milestones.

Adjust. Don’t push yourself too hard, especially when you’re starting out. If you’re feeling tired and sore, take the intensity down. Plan rest days into your routine. Don’t make your goal and plan so rigid that it’s impossible to complete in the real world.

Forgive yourself! Everyone has setbacks. You’re going to get sick. You’re going to miss a workout. That’s ok. Pick yourself up and get back on track. With the right mindset and a little perseverance, you can reach your fitness goals.

References:

1. Updating ACSM’s Recommendations for Exercise Preparticipation Health Screening. Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise 47(11):p 2473-2479, November 2015. https://journals.lww.com/acsm-msse/fulltext/2015/11000/updating_acsm_s_recommendations_for_exercise.28.aspx
2. Benefits of exercise for older adults: a review of existing evidence and current recommendations for the general population. Clinics in geriatric medicine 8.1 (1992): 35-50. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0749069018304968
3. Exercise Acts as a Drug https://bpspubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/j.1476-5381.2012.01970.x
4. Perceived Exercise Barriers https://doi.org/10.1002/art.22098
5. The Benefits of Exercise on Brain Health https://www.choosept.com/podcast/benefits-of-exercise-on-brain-health
6. Exercise Assessment and Prescription in the older adults and individuals at risk for functional decline https://learningcenter.apta.org/products/exercise-assessment-and-prescription-in-older-adults-and-individuals-at-risk-for-functional-decline?_gl=1*1c4v900*_ga*MTEwNjIzMzg2MS4xNjgxODQyODcw*_ga_ZZJK74HXNR*MTY5NzE5NzczNy4xMS4xLjE2OTcyMDAzODMuNTguMC4w&_ga=2.223614619.1495021570.1697197738-1106233861.1681842870
7. 23 and ½ hours: What is the single best thing we can do for our healtt. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aUaInS6HIGo
8. Time Magazine: How To Keep New Year’s Resolutions: https://time.com/6243642/how-to-keep-new-years-resolutions-2/

Are your ready for more activity this spring?

February 20, 2024

With all the gorgeous weather we have been having lately it is never too soon to start to think about being more active this spring. Preparing for a new spring fitness regime involves a combination of planning, setting goals, and gradually incorporating physical activity into your routine. Here are some tips to help you get started:

1. Set Clear Goals:

Define your fitness goals. Whether it’s weight loss, muscle gain, improved endurance, or overall well-being, having clear objectives will help you stay focused. Goals should be attainable and measurable so that you can assess your progress.

2. Assess Your Current Fitness Level:

Understand your current fitness level to tailor your new regime accordingly to avoid injury. Consider factors such as cardiovascular endurance, strength, flexibility, and balance.

3. Consult with a Professional:

If you’re new to fitness or have any health concerns, consult with a fitness professional or healthcare provider. They can provide personalized advice and ensure your new fitness regime aligns with your health status. Physical therapists are tailored well for these situations as they can help with any current issues they see and forecast any potential issues that could arise.

4. Choose Enjoyable Activities:

Select exercises and activities that you enjoy. This will make it more likely for you to stick to your fitness routine. Spring offers a variety of outdoor activities, such as hiking, cycling, running, or gardening.

5. Invest in Proper Gear:

Ensure you have the appropriate clothing and footwear for your chosen activities. Invest in supportive shoes and comfortable workout attire to enhance your performance and prevent injuries.

6. Create a Realistic Schedule:

Plan your workout schedule realistically, considering your daily commitments and energy levels. Start with manageable time slots and gradually increase the duration and intensity as your fitness improves.

7. Warm-Up and Cool Down:

Prioritize warming up before your workouts to prepare your muscles and joints for activity. Include a cool-down routine to help prevent soreness and improve flexibility.

8. Variety and Progression:

Include a variety of exercises in your routine to target different muscle groups and keep things interesting. Gradually increase the intensity and duration of your workouts to challenge your body and see continuous improvement. This gradual increase is especially important if you have been less active over the winter months.

9. Stay Hydrated:

Drink plenty of water before, during, and after your workouts to stay hydrated. Hydration is crucial for optimal performance and recovery.

10. Nutrition Support:

Fuel your body with a balanced diet that includes a mix of carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats. Consider consulting a nutritionist for personalized dietary guidance.

11. Rest and Recovery:

 Allow your body sufficient time to rest and recover between workouts. Incorporate rest days into your schedule to prevent burnout and reduce the risk of overtraining.

12. Track Your Progress and Celebrate Your Wins:

Keep a fitness journal or use apps to track your workouts, achievements, and improvements. Celebrate all of your victories, big or small, to give yourself incentive to continue to push yourself.

Remember, consistency is key when establishing a new fitness regime. Start gradually, listen to your body, and adjust as needed to ensure a sustainable and enjoyable fitness journey.

Physical and Thoracic Pain

February 13, 2024

Physical therapy can be an effective treatment option for thoracic (mid-back) pain. Thoracic pain can result from various causes, such as muscle strain, poor posture, herniated discs, arthritis, or trauma. Physical therapists are trained to assess and address musculoskeletal issues, including those related to the thoracic spine.

Here are some ways physical therapy may help with thoracic pain:

Assessment and Diagnosis

A physical therapist will assess your posture, mobility, strength, and flexibility to identify the underlying causes of your thoracic pain. From that assessment we will create an individualized plan for your care.

Exercise and Stretching

Targeted exercises and stretches can help improve the strength and flexibility of the muscles surrounding the thoracic spine. Strengthening the core muscles can also provide better support to the spine.

Manual Therapy

Hands-on techniques such as massage, joint mobilization, and manipulation may be used to improve mobility and reduce pain in the thoracic spine.

Posture Education

Poor posture can contribute to thoracic pain. Physical therapists can provide guidance on proper body mechanics and ergonomic adjustments to help prevent further strain. This includes working with your seated posture at your desk or at home when relaxing at night.

example of poor posture

Modalities

Heat or cold therapy, ultrasound, electrical stimulation, and other modalities may be used to alleviate pain and promote healing.

Breathing Exercises

Thoracic pain can affect respiratory function, and specific breathing exercises can help improve lung capacity and reduce pain associated with breathing.

Patient Education

Education on self-management techniques, lifestyle modifications, and home exercises empower patients to take an active role in managing their thoracic pain.

At Witte Physical Therapy we personalize your treatment plan based on your needs and the underlying causes of thoracic pain. If you’re experiencing persistent or severe thoracic pain, it’s crucial to seek guidance from a healthcare provider for a comprehensive evaluation and appropriate treatment plan.

What to Expect from Physical Therapy after Back Surgery?

February 6. 2024

Physical therapy is a crucial component of the recovery process after back surgery. The specific expectations may vary based on the type of surgery, individual patient factors, and the surgeon’s recommendations. However, here are some general aspects you can expect from physical therapy after back surgery:

Pain Management

Initially, the focus may be on managing pain and inflammation through appropriate exercises, modalities like ice or heat, and manual therapy techniques.

Mobility and Range of Motion

Gradual introduction of exercises to improve mobility and range of motion in the spine and surrounding joints. This may involve gentle stretching exercises.

Strengthening Exercises

Progressive strengthening exercises for the muscles supporting the spine. This can help stabilize the spine and improve overall function.

Core Strengthening

Emphasis on core strengthening exercises to enhance stability around the spine. A strong core can help protect the spine and reduce the risk of future injuries.

Posture and Body Mechanics

Education on proper posture and body mechanics to prevent strain on the spine during daily activities. Learning how to move and lift correctly is crucial for preventing further issues.

Functional Activities

Gradual incorporation of functional activities relevant to daily life, ensuring that patients can perform their regular tasks without causing harm to the healing spine.

Flexibility Exercises

Flexibility exercises to improve the suppleness of muscles and joints, preventing stiffness and promoting better overall movement.

Patient Education

Providing information about the surgery, expected recovery timeline, and guidelines for at-home exercises and activities. Patients are educated on signs and symptoms to watch for and when to contact their healthcare provider.

Individualized Care

Physical therapy plans are individualized based on the patient’s specific condition, the type of surgery performed, and any unique considerations or limitations. Regular monitoring of progress with adjustments made to the therapy plan as needed. The therapist and healthcare team will work closely with the patient to ensure a safe and effective recovery.

It’s crucial to follow the guidance of the healthcare professionals, including surgeons and physical therapists, and to communicate any concerns or changes in symptoms during the rehabilitation process. Every patient’s recovery journey is unique, so the specific details of the physical therapy plan may vary.

Toe Walking and the Role of Physical Therapy in Treatment

January 30, 2024

Toe walking, a phenomenon where an individual consistently walks on their toes instead of using a typical heel-to-toe gait, can present challenges and concerns, especially when observed in children. While occasional toe walking is common in early childhood development, persistent toe walking beyond a certain age may necessitate intervention. Physical therapy emerges as a crucial component in addressing and treating toe walking, helping individuals achieve a more functional and typical walking pattern.

Toe walking is often noticed in toddlers as they explore their newfound mobility. Most children outgrow this habit as they develop a more mature and coordinated walking pattern. However, when toe walking persists beyond the age of three or four, it may be indicative of an underlying issue. Causes of toe walking can vary and may include neurological conditions, muscular imbalances, sensory processing difficulties, or even idiopathic reasons.

Identifying and addressing toe walking early is essential to prevent potential complications. Persistent toe walking can lead to muscle tightness, joint stiffness, and altered biomechanics, affecting not only the lower limbs but also the overall musculoskeletal system. Early intervention, particularly through physical therapy, can significantly improve outcomes and help individuals develop a more natural and efficient gait.

Physical therapists play a crucial role in designing tailored interventions for individuals exhibiting toe walking. The treatment approach may vary based on the underlying cause, age, and severity of the condition. Here are some key components of physical therapy for toe walking:

https://www.physiopooja.com.sg/blog/toe-walking/

Muscle Stretching and Strengthening Exercises

   Physical therapists focus on stretching tight muscles and strengthening weaker ones. This may include exercises targeting the calves, hamstrings, and hip muscles to improve overall lower limb strength and flexibility.

Gait Training

   Gait training involves re-educating the individual’s walking pattern. Therapists work on correcting the biomechanics of walking, encouraging heel-to-toe contact and a more symmetrical gait.

Balance and Coordination Activities

   Toe walking often affects balance and coordination. Physical therapy includes activities that challenge and improve these aspects, helping individuals develop a more stable and controlled walking pattern.

Orthotics and Assistive Devices

   In some cases, orthotic devices or braces may be recommended to provide additional support and encourage proper foot positioning during walking.

Sensory Integration Techniques

   For individuals with sensory processing difficulties contributing to toe walking, therapists may incorporate sensory integration techniques to address sensory issues and promote a more typical walking pattern.

Home Exercise Programs

   To ensure continuity of care, physical therapists often provide individuals with home exercise programs. Consistent practice of prescribed exercises can enhance the effectiveness of therapy and expedite improvements.

Toe walking can be a complex issue with various underlying causes, but with early identification and appropriate intervention, most individuals can achieve positive outcomes. Physical therapy stands out as a key player in addressing toe walking, offering personalized and comprehensive strategies to improve muscle flexibility, strength, and overall gait mechanics. Through a collaborative effort between healthcare professionals, individuals, and their families, the journey from toe walking to a more typical walking pattern becomes an achievable and rewarding process. If you or someone you know is experiencing persistent toe walking, consulting with a healthcare professional, particularly a physical therapist at Witte Physical Therapy, is crucial for a thorough assessment and tailored intervention plan.

PTs Fuel Healthy Movement With Nutrition

January 23, 2024

Physical therapy and nutrition are often seen as separate, but the truth is, they are deeply intertwined. To get the most out of PT, especially after an injury or surgery, integrating both is crucial. Here’s why:

Food Fuels The Body

During recovery from an injury or surgery, your body is working to heal itself. The activities and exercises you’re doing in PT are designed to help it along. To take advantage of all the work you and your body are putting in, proper nutrition is critical.

Protein provides the building blocks for tissue repair and muscle growth. Carbohydrates provide energy and help support your immune system. Your body also needs healthy fats to regulate inflammation and to build certain cells. Being short on any of these critical components will slow your recovery down. 

You also need enough micronutrients, like vitamins and minerals. For example, vitamin C is needed to make collagen, which goes into bones, skin, and connective tissue. Vitamin D helps your body absorb calcium, which is important for healing fractures, or surgeries involving bones. Iron helps your blood cells carry oxygen throughout your body, which is needed for healing in general. Again, being low on any of these micronutrients will affect your healing. 

Your Weight Affects Your Health

Being overweight directly affects your health. It puts you at higher risk for cardiovascular disease, stroke, osteoarthritis, back pain, diabetes, sleep apnea, and more. All of these are conditions that you might see a PT directly for, or that will impact your healing. Eating a healthy diet is the most effective way to reduce body weight. Combining a healthy diet with exercise is even better for your health. 

As an example, an 18-month study of 450 people with knee osteoarthritis showed that the group that lost weight through a diet and exercised had less pain, better walking speed, and lower joint forces in their knees than groups who either only lost weight, or only exercised. 

How can a physical therapist help with nutrition?

While PTs are not authorized to provide individual diet plans or medical nutritional advice, they can still help with your nutrition.

• PTs can screen for potential nutritional deficiencies or imbalances that may impact your progress in PT or your overall health. This might involve screening for malnutrition, sarcopenia (muscle loss), or assessing dietary habits affecting energy levels, healing, or muscle building. 
• Your PT can educate you on the importance of nutrition for various aspects of rehabilitation and recovery. This includes explaining how specific nutrients like protein, vitamins, and minerals contribute to tissue repair, muscle building, energy production, and pain management.
• They can offer general guidance on healthy eating patterns, portion control, and choosing nutrient-rich foods to support reaching your specific physical therapy goals.
• PTs recognize that overall health and well-being involve various factors, including proper nutrition. They can encourage you to adopt healthy lifestyle habits that include a balanced diet alongside regular exercise and proper sleep hygiene.

Finally, your PT can recognize when your nutrition needs exceed what they are able to provide. In that case, they can refer you to and collaborate with a registered dietician or other qualified healthcare professional for help in dealing with complex nutritional needs or recommending specific dietary changes.

By combining the power of physical therapy and nutrition, you can achieve your recovery goals faster and feel your best!

References:

1. Effects of Intensive Diet and Exercise on Knee Joint Loads, Inflammation, and Clinical Outcomes Among Overweight and Obese Adults With Knee Osteoarthritis: The IDEA Randomized Clinical Trial Effects of Intensive Diet and Exercise on Knee Joint Loads, Inflammation, and Clinical Outcomes Among Overweight and Obese Adults With Knee Osteoarthritis: The IDEA Randomized Clinical Trial | Obesity | JAMA | JAMA Network
2. Ottawa Panel Evidence-Based Clinical Practice Guidelines for the Management of Osteoarthritis in Adults Who Are Obese or Overweight Ottawa Panel Evidence-Based Clinical Practice Guidelines for the Management of Osteoarthritis in Adults Who Are Obese or Overweight | Physical Therapy | Oxford Academic (oup.com)
3. Strategies for optimizing nutrition and weight reduction in physical therapy practice: The evidence Strategies for optimizing nutrition and weight reduction in physical therapy practice: The evidence: Physiotherapy Theory and Practice: Vol 25, No 5-6 (tandfonline.com)
4. Body mass index and risk of knee osteoarthritis: systematic review and meta-analysis of prospective studies Body mass index and risk of knee osteoarthritis: systematic review and meta-analysis of prospective studies – PMC (nih.gov)
5. Nutrition:  A Portion of PT’s Menu of Services Nutrition: A Portion of PTs’ Menu of Services | APTA
6. Considerations for PT’s Role in Nutrition Considerations Related to the PT’s Role in Nutrition and Diet | APTA
7. Nutrition and PT a Powerful Combination – Nutrition and Physical Therapy: A Powerful Combination | APTA