FyzicalElPaso: National Physical Therapy Month

FyzicalElPaso: National Physical Therapy Month

THE

October, 2020

NEWSLETTER

OCTOBER IS NATIONAL PHYSICAL THERAPY MONTH

October is here! I just can’t wait for some chilly weather. Was this a hot summer or was it just my imagination? We just came out of our “Fight the Fall September” and it’s just too important to drop off so I’ll get back to it but now it’s: National Physical Therapy Month! Inhonor of National PTmonth, I wanted to share a remarkable patient success story that really highlights the benefits of physical therapy and just howmuch it can change someone’s life. Some time ago, I came across a woman who had undergone an operation on her hand. There was a mishap during her procedure that resulted in a lacerated nerve, which caused her immense pain post operatively. The complication was initially missed. Her hand quickly became useless, and it did not look good initially. (continued inside)

INSIDE: • Why Choose FYZICAL Therapy & Balance? • Spider Devil Eggs • Improve Balance In Minutes • Patient Success Spotlight

THE

October, 2020

NEWSLETTER

IMPROVE YOUR MOVEMENT BY PICKING THE BEST THERAPY

physician andmyself; every step of theway we had to solve problems as they presented themselves.We had tobe creative to solve her issues and help her face challenges as they popped up (tendon transfer surgeries, nerve grafts) and the result was even better than expected. FYZICAL El Paso is committed to providing high-quality rehabilitation services. Our team of physical therapists is devoted to helping our patients recover from injuries and pain that make everyday activities way harder than they should be. Here at our clinic, the ultimate goal is to help you achieve your full potential and maximum functional level in work, sport, and life activities. Weunderstand that no twopain conditions arealike, andno two treatment plans shouldbe either. Imagine if the patient in this story hadbeen given “one-size-fits-all” kindphysical therapy treatment. What if she had never received physical therapy at all after her initial surgical mishap? There’s a good chance she might never have regained even 50% of her normal function back in that hand, and her life would have been negatively affected. She dedicated time and patience to physical therapy, she was consistent (with a great attitude at that!), and so she made a beautiful recovery. Contact Fyzical El Paso to learn more about the benefits of physical therapy. After all, it is National PT Month, so if you’re struggling with a painful condition, there’s no better time than the present to seek help! Watch our website for exciting offers in our constant mission to “Fight the Fall”. - Luis, FYZICAL El Paso Whether you have been injured or have been suffering for a long time, seeing a physical therapist at FYZICAL Therapy & Balance Centers can help you return to a more active and pain-free life. Give us a call at the location nearest you!

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(continued from outside) What amazedme about this patient though, was that throughout her entirephysical therapy treatment, she remainedoptimistic and hopeful. Her positive attitude never wavered evenwhen I wasn’t 100%positive of the outcome of her treatment. You see, in physical therapy cases like these, when there’s so much damage done, we consider a 50% return of a person’s functional ability a good outcome.

Luis Zuniga PT, DPT, CHT, MTC

This patient was in our care for around two and a half years. During that time, she went through a series of staged reconstructive operations with her hand surgeon, and each time she went through a procedure, we initially lost ground in order to make positive changes. We’d make progress, reach a plateau, she’d have surgery, we’d lose some ground only to make more advances. We had to update her program constantly. Protect some surgical changes that were made then boost the program to advance her outcome. Still, this patient was diligent, cooperative, and determined to continue and regain as much movement and function as possible. What was so inspiring and marvelous about this particular case was that her recovery was well beyond our wildest expectations -- waymore than the expected 50%! Her strength returned, her ability to use her hands was restored to around 80 or 90%. She could type on a computer; she could write with a pen. She could lift boxes wrap presents and domany things that wewere doubtful shewould ever be able to do again. It was spectacular. Many factors went into this patient’s case, including the outstanding corrective surgical procedures, but also the detailed oriented rehabilitation we provided at our clinic. This helped her recover in a way that exceeded even my expectations. She was absolutely thrilled. Everything we did during her treatment was unique and tailored to her specific condition. I considered her treatment to be a mental exercise between her

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WHY CHOOSE FYZICAL THERAPY & BALANCE?

In recent years, National Physical Therapy Month has also focused on the alternative PT offers over opioids. With opioid abuse at an all-time high -- and tragic overdoses on the rise -- alternatives to this class of prescription medication are even more important. The National Centers for Disease Control (CDC) estimates that opioid prescriptions have quadrupled in recent years. Yet, the number of people reporting chronic pain has not gone down. Of course, many people who have conditions like back injuries or arthritis already understand that physical therapy can increase their range-of-motion. But aside from adding flexibility, physical therapy is a viable way to reduce acute and chronic pain. Prescriptions certainly have a valid place in pain management, and it’s true that physical therapy isn’t right for every patient. So how can you tell if physical therapy is a better choice than prescription opioids? TheCDC suggests that if you fall into any of these categories, physical therapy can be beneficial: • Pain comes from fibromyalgia, low back pain, knee arthritis or hip arthritis. These conditions in particular are known for responding well to physical therapy when it comes to pain management. • The pain has lasted more than 90 days, meaning that it has gone from “acute” to “chronic.” • The benefits of prescription opioids don’t outweigh their risks. In the early days after an injury or an operation, painkillers help patients function without crippling pain. But with each day that passes, the risks opioids pose outweigh the rewards. • If you’ve become afraid of the pain. Obviously, nobody welcomes physical discomfort. But some people become overly dependent on a pill’s ability to remove all aches and twinges. In physical therapy,

pain is a way to determine exactly what needs to be worked on, in order to reduce discomfort down the road.

Does an official month really matter, given that physical therapists are out there making a difference every day? In many ways, yes! If you or a loved one has been on the fence about giving PT a chance, the many stories you’re likely to hear during this month of public awareness may help you to decide. If you have any questions about whether you should #UsePhysicalTherapy, call our office today to discuss your condition and to set up an evaluation. Sources: https://www.moveforwardpt.com/ChoosePT/Toolkit https://www.moveforwardpt.com/choose-physical-therapy-over-opioids-for-pain- management-choosept https://www.moveforwardpt.com/Resources/Detail/physical-therapy-vs-opioids- when-to-choose-physica https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/160645.php https://nationaldaycalendar.com/national-physical-therapy-month-october/

Call us today at 915-755-0738 to schedule an appointment!

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SPIDER DEVIL EGGS

INGREDIENTS • 12 large eggs • 2 tbsp diced pimientos plus more for garnish

• 2 tsp apple cider vinegar • 1/4 tsp black pepper • Dash of hot sauce • 4 oz sharp cheddar cheese • 3 large pimiento-stuffed olives, each cut crosswise into 4 thin slices

• 2 tbsp canola mayonnaise • 2 tsp grainy Dijon mustard

DIRECTIONS Fill a large saucepan with water to a depth of 1 inch; bring to a boil. Place steamer basket in pan; place eggs in basket. Cover and steam 15 minutes. Plunge eggs into a bowl filled with ice water. Let stand 5 minutes. Peel eggs. Remove top 1/3 of hard-cooked egg white from each egg (reserve caps). Use a teaspoon to remove yolks while keeping whites intact. Place yolks in a medium bowl. Add pimientos and next 6 ingredients (through cheese), stirring until well combined. Place yolk mixture in a large Ziploc bag; snip one corner frombottomof bag to create a hole. Pipe yolk mixture into egg white cups, filling to just above the rim of each cup. Place one olive slice on exposed yolk mixture of each egg to create the body of the spider topping. Chop slices of olives to create the legs. Add pimiento pieces to either side of the body for horns, if desired.

https://www.cookinglight.com/recipes/devil-eggs

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Patient Success Spotlight

“I can climb stairs and move around normally!” “I came in after a knee replacement, and I could barely walk. Now, I can climb stairs and move around normally. The entire staff is wonderful. 5 Stars.”

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

Improve Balance In Minutes Try this movement if you are experiencing poor balance.

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Improves Balance

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www.simpleset.net

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BALANCE TANDEM STANCE Start by placing one foot in front of your other foot in a heel to toe position. Maintain your balance. Return to starting position and repeat. Attempt this exercise alternating the opposite foot in front. For an added challenge while in this stance, slowly turn your head to the left and hold for 3 seconds. Repeat by turning your head to the right, up, and down, all of which holding for 3 seconds. If feeling confidant in your balance, challenge yourself further by standing on a thick pillow or with your eyes closed.

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DOWN 1. The property of being bent or shaped 2. A break of a bone 3. A common injury for tendons 4. Amuscle group on the back of the thigh that can bend 6. What is one reason why you might go to the physical therapist?

ACROSS 5. Quality of moving freely 7. Disruption of a joint 8. Something inside your leg that is easily sprained or broken 9. An involuntary / automatic response to a stimulus

CROSSWORD ANSWERS

ACROSS 5. Mobility 7. Dislocation

DOWN 1. Flexible 2. Fracture 3. Tendonitis 4. Hamstrings 6. Injury

8. Ankle 9. Reflex

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TIPS TO FALL-PROOF YOUR HOME Six out of every 10 falls happen at home, where we spend much of our time and tend to move around without thinking about our safety. There are many changes you can make to your home that will help you avoid falls and ensure your safety. In Stairways, Hallways, and Pathways:

• Have handrails on both sides of the stairs, and make sure they are tightly fastened. Hold the handrails when you use the stairs, going up or down. If you must carry something while you’re on the stairs, hold it in one hand and use the handrail with the other. Don’t let what you’re carrying block your view of the steps. • Make sure there is good lighting with light switches at the top and bottom of stairs and on each end of a long hall. • Keep areas where you walk tidy. • Check that all carpets are fixed firmly to the floor so they won’t slip. Put no-slip strips on tile and wooden floors. • Don’t use throw rugs or small area rugs. In Bathrooms and Powder Rooms • Mount grab bars near toilets and on both the inside and outside of your tub and shower. • Place non-skid mats, strips, or carpet on all surfaces that may get wet. • Remember to turn on night lights. In Your Bedroom • Put night lights and light switches close to your bed. • Keep a flashlight by your bed in case the power is out and you need to get up. • Keep your telephone near your bed. In Other Living Areas • Keep electric cords and telephone wires near walls and away from walking paths. • Secure all carpets and large area rugs firmly to the floor. • Arrange your furniture and other objects so they are not in your way when you walk. • Make sure your sofas and chairs are the right height for you to get in and out of them easily. • Don’t walk on newly washed floors—they are slippery. • Keep items you use often within easy reach. • Don’t stand on a chair or table to reach something that’s too high—use a “reach stick” instead or ask for help. • Know where your pet is whenever you’re standing or walking. • Keep emergency numbers in large print near each telephone. Your Own Medical Alarm. If you’re concerned about falling, think about getting an emergency response system. If you fall or need emergency help, you push a button on a special necklace

or bracelet to alert 911. There is a fee for this service, and it is not usually covered by insurance. Home Improvements Prevent Falls. Many State and local governments have education and/or homemodification programs to help older people prevent falls. Check with your local health department, or local Area Agency on Aging to see if there is a program near you. The team at FYZICAL Therapy & Balance Centers knows how important balance and walking is for independent living, as well as for work activities, exercise, sports and enjoying life in general. We offer the following programs and therapies to help reduce the risk of falls: • Assessment and Evaluation Programs • Difficulty Walking

• Gait Training and Balance Programs • Fall Prevention and Balance Retraining • Manual Therapy • Fitness and Wellness Programs • Vestibular Rehab

Bring your life back into balance! With our dedicated team of physical therapists behind you, you’ll regain confidence in navigating challenging terrain and learning how to avoid dizzy spells. You may even be able to leave that cane or walker behind! Call us today to schedule a Fall Risk assesment available for FREE only for a limited time! https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/fall-proofing-your-home

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El Paso, TX 79907 P: (915) 593-4985 F: (915) 593-5187

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HAVE YOU MET YOUR ANNUAL INSURANCE DEDUCTIBLE?

Common Insurance Terms, Explained. • Premium: The amount you pay each month for your insurance • Deductible: The amount you must pay for health and medical services first before your insurer covers anything • Co-pay: The amount you pay for routine services, such as annual physicals, to which your deductible doesn’t apply • Out-of-Pocket Maximum: The absolute maximum amount you will pay for health and medical services each year • Claim: The bill your health care provider sends to your insurance company for payment Here are the top 8 medical services to get once you’ve hit your deductible. 1. Bone Densitometry (DEXA, DXA). A bone densitometry tests your bone density — the bone’s mass and mineral make- up. This test allows us to screen for osteoporosis. 2. Physical Therapy. You don’t need to have a major injury or be an athlete to receive physical therapy. Physical therapy can be helpful if you have problems with pain, stiffness, motor skills, coordination, balance, or strength. 3. Joint Replacement Surgery. If you have an achy joint pain, joint replacement surgery is one of the best things you can do to relieve the pain and get back to living the life you had before the pain set in. 4. Skin Care. Skin conditions such as acne, warts, and eczema are also conditions that you may have avoided treating. 5. Plastic Surgery. Both cosmetic and reconstructive surgery fall under the plastic surgery umbrella. While many insurance companies won’t cover cosmetic procedures, such as brow lifts or tummy tucks, they will often cover reconstructive ones, such as inverted nipple correction, fixing burn scars, or breast reduction. 6. Upper Endoscopy. An upper endoscopy examines your upper gastrointestinal tract. It can diagnose problems that often cause upset stomachs, such as celiac disease, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), or ulcers. 7. Lose Weight. Many insurance companies provide coverage for services related to weight loss. If you meet with a provider about diet and exercise plans, medication therapy, or bariatric surgery, your insurance company might have your back. Luis Zuniga PT, DPT, CHT, MTC

8. Get a Sleep Study. An overnight sleep study monitors what’s happening in your brain and body as you sleep, in order to see if you have a sleep disorder. Most studied are attended sleep studies, where you will spend the night at a sleep center. 9. Stock Up on Your Prescriptions. If your insurance covers certain medical supplies, such as blood sugar test strips or infusion pumps and supplies, you may want to look into purchasing a small stock of those, too. An insurance deductible is an amount of money that you must pay before your insurance the company pays for your medical services. If your deductible is met, your Physical Therapy may not cost you anything. Patients with family plans or those who have had major surgeries or have a chronic illness are most likely to have a $0 balance remaining on their out-of-pocket expenses. This means that the cost of physical therapy could be minimal or entirely covered by the patient’s insurance plan. If you are close to or have met your insurance deductible for the year, then now is the time to come in for Physical Therapy! Are you feeling aches and pains? Need to work on your core? Let us help you get a head start for 2021. Contact us today to schedule your appointment.

Take care, - Luis, Fyzical El Paso

Source: https://www.stormontvail.org

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