OPTM PT Saratoga April 2018

OPTM PT Saratoga April 2018

Monthly The Future of Physical Therapy Why PT Is Moving to the Forefront of Modern Health Care

The American health care paradigm is changing. In response to skyrocketing costs throughout the medical field and increased out-of-pocket burden, patients are beginning to take an increasingly proactive stance in their health and well-being. People are more careful and selective than ever with their health care choices, searching for options with proven value and long-term, successful outcomes. And with a rising shortage of primary care physicians throughout the country, patients suffering from aches and pains are finally starting to realize that, often, it is most efficient and cost-effective to start treatment directly with a skilled physical therapist than with a doctor. Each year, we see an increase in public awareness about the incredible benefits physical therapy can offer. Physicians and patients alike now recognize that orthopedic physical therapists are the experts in the primary care of musculoskeletal disorders. Each therapist undergoes a minimum of six years of higher education across a combination of bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees to unearth the intricate processes behind all types of musculoskeletal dysfunction and to address them at the root cause of pain using natural, conservative treatments that provide lasting results. Today, physical therapy isn’t some auxiliary treatment — it’s a vital part of any patient’s medical portfolio. Most people have a primary care physician for routine checkups and to bolster their overall health and a dentist to keep their smile sparkling and their oral health in order. But they should also have a primary physical therapist to prevent and treat musculoskeletal injury and disorder, helping them maintain the physical comfort, functional capability, and confidence they need to continue doing the things that matter most to them. When companies implement proactive, on-site physical therapy services and screening, the risk of their employees developing musculoskeletal problems plummets by more than 50 percent. Seeing a primary physical therapist twice

Pilates: an excellent tool to restore strength and mobility for injury recovery and prevention

a year for a movement, strength, flexibility, and balance assessment results in similarly dramatic outcomes in your wellness.

Luckily, even as medical costs have climbed, physical therapists have maintained their ability to provide natural healing and overall wellness at a fraction of the cost of medications, diagnostic imaging, injections, and surgery. A typical course of physical therapy treatment costs less than a thousand dollars. This is in stark contrast to other treatments — an MRI clocks in over $2,500, injections at $3,800-plus, and a year’s supply of potentially dangerous opioids at more than $6,500. And many of these treatments end up only delaying surgery for a few months — a procedure that may cost more than $30,000. What’s more, for the vast majority of musculoskeletal disorders, including back and knee pain, the outcomes for physical therapy are often equal to or better than those of surgery and other invasive treatments. From my perspective, these trends are all part of a new dawn of preventive and proactive health care centered around physical therapy. With PT at the forefront of musculoskeletal treatment as patients educate themselves more and more about their health care options, our team at OPTM of Saratoga will reach more people than ever, transforming lives with long-term health and well-being. Dr. Fabrice Rockich

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Meet Celina! One of Our Expert Physical Therapists

SUCCESS STORIES

“Running is an important part of my life. It keeps me healthy and happy. After my hamstring tore, I had a lot of pain, was unable to run, and became very depressed. Laura and the team at OPTM Saratoga are amazing. They knew how hard to push me to help me

At OPTM Saratoga, we strive to create a positive, comfortable environment for our patients’ recovery. We pride ourselves on being able to chat, laugh, and collaborate with you on your way to wellness. Over the weeks, your physical therapist will become personally invested in your case and dedicate themselves not only to healing your injury, but also to improving your overall health.

achieve my goals. I appreciated how they listened to me and spent quality time with me. I felt supported by the entire team — like I was part of the family there. Thanks to Laura and the OPTM Saratoga team, I am a very happy runner once more.”

–Janis Riccomini

“On Sept. 19, 2016, I had a complete shoulder replacement. After six weeks, I started my range of motion therapy with Phil and Todd

The people we serve inspire us to come into work excited to face whatever new challenges and unique personalities they bring. Certainly that’s the case with Celina Wildemann, one of the most outgoing, friendly faces around the clinic. “We get to work with so many different people,” Celina says. “Everybody has their own story, and their own reason why they’re here. It’s cool to be able to really get to know our patients — their backgrounds, their struggles — and help them get back to their normal lives.” By high school, Celina knew she wanted to work in the medical field, but she wasn’t quite sure which path to take. When her sister clued her in on the physical therapy field, her interest was piqued. “One of the draws of PT from the start was the way you get to know your patients,” she says. “It’s not like a doctor’s office where you pop in, see them for 15 minutes, and send them on their way. You build a real relationship, establishing mutual trust over several visits. Really, you just get to make a bunch of friends!” Celina started out as an intern at OPTM Saratoga while she was still in PT school and quickly became a full-time therapist after she gained her license. “They were looking for a team player, an upbeat, happy person to join a patient-focused clinic,” she says. “I said to myself, ‘This is the perfect place for me!’”

twice a week for six weeks. My surgeon and I were very pleased with the range of motion I had achieved. I then started my strengthening therapy twice a week for six weeks. This also went very well for me. I was unable to do very much with my right arm after my surgery. I had to use my left arm to shower, wash my hair, shave, brush my teeth, eat, and pretty much everything else. I am now back to doing most things with both arms. I was given a home workout plan during and after my physical therapy was complete. Phil and Todd were both very knowledgeable and caring in getting my range of motion and strength back in my arm and shoulder. They both did an exceptional job. I am very grateful to them. Thank you, Phil and Todd.”

–Greg Sparrer

“When I first walked into OPTM Saratoga, I literally hobbled over to Todd. I hurt my knee dancing and had gone to three doctors, had an MRI, and finally, the last doctor (Dr. Parker) told me to go to PT at OPTM Saratoga.

“Todd is an absolute blessing and a miracle worker. He helped me so much that I cannot believe how I have a normal knee and leg now. And I have no pain after only two weeks of therapy, twice per week! He is amazing and knew exactly what to do to make me whole again. He gave me exercises and ensured I was doing everything the right way. The manipulation of my knee that he did in each session was just incredible. He is incredible. “Before this PT with Todd, I could not walk. I had to hold onto the walls to get from one step to the other. I cried in pain for over two months! I could not walk up the stairs, and the pain I had getting out of bed was horrific. I thought I had to have a knee replacement. “Thanks to Todd, I am now walking up and down the steps very quickly, and I have no pain. All I do is smile and thank my lucky stars that Todd was the one who walked out to greet me that day.”

We agree! Since joining the team in 2016, Celina’s been an instrumental part of our day-to-day, offering positivity and compassion to her patients with an infectious enthusiasm. We are lucky to have her!

–Bernadette T. Reed

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Reacting to Sciatic Pain The Importance of Consulting With Your PT

When people experience pain in their lower back and legs, their first instinct is generally to reach for an over-the-counter pain reliever. If the pain persists, they talk to their doctor, who may prescribe another pain reliever or an injection. In more serious cases, surgery sometimes becomes an option. However, if you suffer from pain characterized as sciatic pain — pain originating in the lower back that can be felt through the legs — relief may be closer than you think. It’s all about working with your physical therapist to find the ideal therapy. Many people who suffer from sciatic pain try to avoid physical activity. They take it easy until the pain subsides. Unfortunately, when it comes to sciatica, taking it easy will likely not produce the desired results. In fact, remaining sedentary can actually exacerbate sciatic pain. What can you do? For some people, the answer is exercise. If you’re dealing with the symptoms of sciatica, stretching and core strength routines can help alleviate pain and discomfort in the lower back and legs. Yoga has been shown to help people with sciatic pain, as well.

Keep in mind that not all yoga poses or exercises are ideally suited for people with sciatica. It’s best to understand the source of your pain before committing

to an exercise routine. For instance, if you suffer with spinal disc herniation, certain motions and poses have the potential to place undue stress on your back and increase the pain. However, some poses and core exercises work to strengthen and align your back, resulting in relief. The best moves for you will depend on the source of your pain, so it’s crucial to consult with your physical therapist first. Your therapist can guide you and suggest appropriate exercises and poses to maximize your relief and avoid further discomfort.

MINT

PEA SOUP

TAKE A BREAK

With the beautiful spring weather, peas will soon be ripe enough to slip out of their pods. In honor of the season, this recipe pairs peas and pearl onions with mint to make a refreshing soup.

Ingredients

• 3 pearl

• 3/4 cup fresh mint, plus more for garnish • 1 tablespoon agave nectar • Juice of 1 lemon

onions, diced • 3 tablespoons olive oil • 6 cups fresh or frozen peas • 5 cups vegetable stock

• Salt to taste • Pistachios for garnish

Directions

1. Place pot on stove over medium heat. Add olive oil. Add onions and cook until translucent. 2. Add peas and stock. Cook until peas are just tender and still bright green. Remove from stove and allow mixture to cool for 5 minutes.

3. Put the mixture in a blender. As you blend, add mint, agave, lemon juice, and salt. 4. Once blended, pour into a bowl, garnish with mint and pistachios, and serve!

Adapted from mynewroots.org

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Why Physical Therapy Is the Future Page1

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Family Time in the Great Outdoors Family adventures are a great way to grow closer and develop meaningful connections. But with lodging prices rising and the logistical nightmare that traveling with the entire family can be, many Americans are looking at a new option: ditching the beaches and resorts and heading to the great outdoors. Actually, we know this option isn’t new at all. Spending time outdoors with family may very well be one of the most time-honored traditions ever. Camping Lodgings and flights are expensive, so going on a family vacation can cost thousands of dollars — and that’s just for the basics! But camping only requires a tent, a fire, picnic food, and water. Rather than scarfing down fast food between flights and dealing with airport security, departure delays, and long flights, take a deep breath and roast marshmallows over the fire with the people you love. Hiking A hike with family is an easy way to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. All a hike requires is a trail and a sense of adventure. The best part of hiking is that you can tailor the distance to fit your family’s needs. If you have children or grandkids who aren’t up for the challenge of an arduous daylong trek, there’s sure to be a shorter scenic trail. If nothing else, you can always turn around and backtrack the way you came.

Fishing Fishing is a great way to get out and do something relaxing yet challenging. It doesn’t require a lot of skill or investment. All it takes is the willingness to learn and the desire to connect with nature. This is why fishing is the perfect activity for youngsters of all ages. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your rod and reel and head to the nearest lake or river. While these are all great stand-alone options, together they form an amazing three-headed monster for your next family outing. By combining camping with a hike to a river or lake where you can go fishing, you are sure to create lasting memories with your family that will draw you closer together. Ditch the lines at the airport and the stress of travel. Unleash the possibilities of adventure in the great outdoors.

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