OPTM PT of Saratoga - December 2019 January 2020

OPTM PT of Saratoga - December 2019 January 2020

Monthly

Our Why

The Power Behind OPTM Saratoga’s Mission to Help Others

complicated or difficult. It’s why I challenge myself with hobbies like golf and playing guitar. These all drive my self-development and that of others; I realized that the purpose behind my existence is helping others reach their full potential.” For OPTM Saratoga owner and physical therapist Dr. Fabrice Rockich, the sentiment of helping others rings true because of a lifelong calling he feels. He

At OPTM Saratoga, we want to be more than just a place for pain relief. Our patients are so much more than the ailments that plague them. They are spouses, parents, grandparents, young athletes, weekend warriors, and a litany of other things. Because we have such a diverse set of patients, we cannot simply be a practice that only provides one-time healing solutions. Instead, we provide lifelong healing solutions to every patient who seeks our help; we help them live full, wonderful lives. Our “why” statement at OPTM Saratoga is this: “Every person deserves the opportunity to pursue the aspiration that gives their life meaning.” We hire, work, and live by this statement because we don’t want our patients to feel like they are another commodity. We realize many patients are seeking relief so they can get back to the activities that bring them the most joy, like their weekly tennis game or playing with their grandchildren. We understand the drive to be better and live a happier, healthier life, and it’s something all of OPTM Saratoga’s employees understand and live by. Each one of us is committed to our “why” statement, but we each came to this realization through different experiences. Our clinical director, Dr. Ben Turner, explains that his drive comes from a commitment to others, which is something he learned during his college days. During college, Turner took it upon himself to tutor a classmate who was struggling in class. Together, they worked hard to discover what she was struggling to grasp and what solutions they could find. By the end of the semester, Turner’s classmate raised her grade from a failing one to an A. “Something clicked in my head. This is what I want to do ... I figured that out by looking at the things that make me happy, which led me to my choice to be a PT and a clinical instructor and a clinical director. It’s why I choose the right action even if it might be

“Weprovide lifelong healing solutions toeverypatient who seeks our help; we help them live full, wonderful lives.”

wants to make a commitment to himself and his well-being by putting forth positive contributions to his employees, patients, and community. Rockich funnels these efforts into mentorship for his employees and support for the community he serves on a day-to-day basis. Together, Rockich and the team continually give back to the community through volunteering and fundraising efforts.

It’s all part of what Rockich feels he was meant to do.

“To make a positive difference in this world — I truly believe that’s why I’m on this planet. That’s what I gravitated toward,” Rockich says. “My work to help people recover from injuries and restore movement allows them to perform the activities that give their lives meaning, whether it’s recreational or professional.” Everyone at OPTM Saratoga is passionate about what we do every day. We are proud to work with caring professionals and to have the opportunity to provide you with the peace, care, and compassion you deserve. Dr. Fabrice Rockich and Dr. Ben Turner

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The sun is setting on another year, and you may be promising to eat better, think smarter, and improve your well-being for the next 12 months. But before you begin to work on your New Year’s resolutions, consider the benefit physical therapy can give you. Pain, Pain Go Away Knee, hip, and shoulder pain are common ailments, but they are not normal! Make 2020 the year you treat your chronic pain with physical therapy. Your therapy team at OPTM Saratoga can develop a plan that targets your specific sources of pain to improve mobility, balance, and strength. You do not have to live with pain, nor do you have to undergo surgery or painful treatments to find relief. Instead, we can help you find relief through strength. GOAL-GETTER How Physical Therapy Can Help You Meet Your New Year’s Resolutions

SUCCESS STORIES

“This is my second time working with Phil to rehabilitate my knee. The first time was in 2010 following my left knee reconstruction, and this time, we worked on

recovering my right knee replacement. It was such a relief to know exactly who to go to. Phil is the best PT I’ve worked with. He is supportive and listens to his patients. I had some complications following my surgery, but I knew I would overcome them with Phil’s help and make a full recovery. I can’t thank him enough. He is simply awesome!”

–Janet Jerin, Aug. 29, 2019

A Hole-in-One Did you know that OPTM Saratoga has in-house golf experts who can help you improve your swing, find your balance, and play your best round of golf? Fabrice Rockich, Ben

“Following a right hip replacement, I started going to OPTM Saratoga. I found them because two different friends both recommended OPTM separately. Needless to say, I wasn’t disappointed. From the friendly and effective office staff to the knowledgeable PTs, they’re great.

Turner, and Phil Edwards are our in-house Nike Golf Performance Specialists, who have advanced training to help you progress on the course. For

non-golfers, OPTM Saratoga’s philosophies are designed to increase your strength, improve your agility, and meet your goals when it comes to the hobbies you love. Score more goals on the parks and rec field, or finally serve your neighbor a loss in tennis. Communicate what you want to see out of therapy with your team, and we’ll make sure 2020 is your best athletic year yet! Far From Fallin’ One of the best-kept secrets in all of physical therapy is the stability it can provide! According to the National Council on Aging, falls are the most common fatal and nonfatal injuries among older adults. There is one powerful way to combat these potentially deadly occurrences: exercise! Movement strengthens your joints, muscles, and ligaments, which not only helps you avoid collapsing but can also help you catch yourself when you fall. In physical therapy, your team can provide you with an in-clinic routine, at-home exercises, and tips to avoid a potentially painful 2020.

“When I started PT two weeks after surgery, I couldn’t even put my shoes on without assistance. Todd and Phil are the dynamic duo, and they quickly helped with my strength and range of motion. I’m feeling stronger and better than before my surgery. I had such a fantastic experience.”

–Kathie Reviglio, Sept. 11, 2019

“I came in with a frozen right shoulder, having no idea how it happened. I was in the worst pain of my life. Between laser therapy and PT with

Ben and Laura, I’m now pain-free and have a full range of motion. Everyone has been so helpful and welcoming. I can finally return to my normal daily activities. Thank you, OPTM Saratoga, for the best experience!”

Don’t take a backseat to your goals this year! Get started with our team of physical therapists by calling 408-973-7700 today.

–Amy Shepherd, Sept. 13, 2019

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Physical therapy can be the answer to many ailments that patients face, but your family may need a little encouragement to get there! Consider these steps before having that conversation. First , put yourself in your loved one’s position. If you are a former physical therapy patient, you may need to remind yourself about your emotions leading up to treatment. If you have never experienced physical therapy, you need to approach the situation with as much empathy as you can offer. Often, recovering from an injury is a grieving process, especially when that injury prevents someone from doing daily activities or the hobbies they love. Offer your loved one encouragement and understanding. Next , explain what physical therapy can offer. There are many misconceptions about what is involved, and many patients believe it is only something done after surgery. Encourage your loved ones to read up on therapeutic programs and opportunities on our OPTM Saratoga website, and ask us about a consultation or tour. Together, we can remind them that therapy can prevent injuries and help patients return to their daily activities stronger than ever. Talking to Your Loved Ones About Going to Physical Therapy ‘CAN WE TALK?’

healing and treatment for their injuries, they may be causing further damage. For example, not seeking proper relief for knee pain could result in permanent knee damage and continued stress to the hips and ankles. Instead, this can be avoided and treated with physical therapy. Finally , be a support system. Offer to drive your loved one to therapy or be waiting with a coffee when they finish each session. Create a community of supporters by rotating driving schedules or preparing meals for them. Let your loved one know they are not alone in their fight against pain and injury, and celebrate the landmarks they reach. At OPTM Saratoga, we understand how debilitating pain can be, and we can support you and your family as you work through a physical therapy journey. Learn more about our physical therapy services at OPTMSaratoga.com, and call 408-973-7700 to set up a consultation today.

Explaining the dangers of ignoring physical therapy is important too. Patients may not always understand that when they avoid proper

CLASSIC ROAST CHICKEN

TAKE A BREAK

Ingredients

• 1 chicken, approx. 5–6 lbs • Kosher salt • Freshly ground pepper • 1 large bunch fresh thyme, 20 sprigs removed • 1 lemon, halved

• 1 head garlic, cut in half crosswise • 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted • 1 large yellow onion, thickly sliced • 4 carrots, peeled and cut into 2-inch pieces • Olive oil

Directions

1. Heat oven to 425 F. 2. Rinse chicken inside and out, removing giblets if included. Move to a work surface, pat dry, and liberally season with salt and pepper. Stuff cavity with thyme bunch, lemon halves, and garlic head. Brush outside with butter, and then season again. Tie chicken legs together with kitchen string. 3. Meanwhile, in a roasting pan, toss onions and carrots in olive

oil and season with salt, pepper, and 20 sprigs of thyme. 4. Place the chicken on the vegetables and roast for 1 1/2 hours. 5. Remove from oven, and let stand for 20 minutes covered with foil. 6. Slice and serve with the vegetables.

Holidays Flurry Frozen Penguin Wreath Snowflake

Winter Sleigh Cookies Ornaments Reindeer Stockings

Inspired by Ina Garten

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18780 Cox Ave. Saratoga, CA 95070 408-973-7700 www.optmsaratoga.com

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WhyWe DoWhat We Do Every Day Page1 What People Are Saying About Us Page2 Finally! AWay toMeet Your New Year’s Goals Page2 ConvincingGrandma That Physical Therapy Is the Answer Page3

Classic Roast Chicken Page3

Tips for Running and Jogging in Cold Weather Page4

Running in a Winter Wonderland Tips for Running and Jogging in Cold Weather

Maybe you love the majesty of a winter’s morning, or maybe you just hate the treadmill. Whatever your reason is for wanting to run or jog outside in the dead of winter, remember to take the proper precautions before stepping out. Runners face challenges during the winter that they don’t face any other time of year. If you want to experience the winter safely, there are a few things to keep in mind. Warm up inside first. If you’re planning on braving the snow and frigid temperatures, try to spend 10–15 minutes warming up before you walk out your front door. Cold weather naturally tightens muscles and joints, so stretching your limbs in a heated environment is a good way to ensure maximum comfort and minimum risk of injury when you’re running in the cold. Wear shoes with traction. If your favorite running path is covered with snow and ice, you should consider finding a different route. But, if you can’t resist going down your beaten path, then you need to make sure your shoes are up to the challenge. If your running shoes have worn soles, then you’ll need to get a new pair with soles that will grip the ground better before

stepping out on the ice. Regardless of how amazing your shoes are, remain vigilant about where you’re stepping.

Dress down a layer. Yes, it is cold outside, but your body will naturally warm up as you run, just like it would with any other physical activity. Think of what you would normally wear to stay comfortable in the cold, and then wear one less layer when you’re running. Of course, you should keep other weather elements in mind as well, such as wind, rain, and snow, when you’re picking out your running clothes. Finally, if a day is particularly cold, snowy, or windy, don’t force yourself outside for the sake of your health. Sometimes, a good bowl of soup and a roaring fire can be just as physically satisfying as a run outside.

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