Howard_Safety Tips for Orthotics

Howard_Safety Tips for Orthotics

Health

& Fitness

Check out the BracePlace! SAFETY TIPS FOR YOUR PROSTHETICS AND ORTHOTICS

Advancements in prosthetics and orthotics have enabled you to stay active and involved during the busy summer months. The last thing you need is for an accident, an infection, or a problem with your device to hold you back. A professional evaluation can help you stay both safe and active this summer. Call us today to schedule an appointment. SAFETY TIPS There are several tips you can follow to make sure you stay safe while enjoying your favorite activities. Maintain a Correct Fit - It’s essential that your prosthetic or orthotic fit as securely as possible. A loose or poor fitting device can make you more susceptible to falls. You should always have your fit re-evaluated if you’ve recently experienced pregnancy, changes in your weight, or significant changes in your health. Prepare for New Activities - When learning to walk with your device, it’s essential to practice in different environments. Ask your therapist or prosthetist to help you use your device on an incline or other types of surfaces before venturing out this summer. Always Wear Shoes - You should always wear shoes if your lower limb was designed and fitted with specific footwear. While it may be tempting to go barefoot in warm weather, this could disrupt your balance. Listen to Your Device - Sound can be just as important as the feel of your device. If you hear any type of clicking, crunching, or squeaking sounds, you’ll need to have your device evaluated by a professional. Plan Ahead for Travel - To avoid intense screening, you may want to get a notification card for TSA checkpoints ahead of time. Check the TSA website or call the airline you’ll be traveling on for specific information. You may also want to request seats that face a wall and provide extra room.

HAZARDS TO AVOID There are several types of things you should either avoid or exhibit caution around in order to stay safe while using your device. Avoid Water Submersion - Most prosthetics and orthotics are not made for submersion in water. Components that are made of metal can rust and become dysfunctional. You may want to ask a professional about a special-use limb, such as a swim leg. Protect from Sand - Sand can get into mechanical parts and cause extensive damage to your device. All mechanical parts should be snugly covered before spending time at the beach. Plan for Uneven Terrain - If you’re not sure what type of landscape you’ll be walking through, you may want to bring a walking stick or another type of assistive device. Refrain From Overexertion - It may be tempting to jump right into long hikes or an intense game of tennis, but doing too much too soon could cause injury. It’s necessary to be prepared for increased sweating during the summer months. Always carry essential items such as liners, dry cloths, and extra prosthetic socks. Avoid Slippery Items - Water around pools, slippery floors, and loose rugs can pose potential hazards for anyone using a prosthetic or orthotic device. It’s also important to choose pathways that provide good lighting and adequate room to walk through. Whether you have an artificial limb, a brace, or some other type of support, it’s important to maintain safe practices to avoid injury. Call our office to schedule a consultation to make sure you’re safe and free from injury this summer!

www.howardrehabcenter.com

Patient Success Stories

“Very good, even great service!” Mark O.

“Excellent results!” Michael V.

“Great Service! Thank you!” Colvin S.

Come in for a FREE Check-up

Do Your Orthotics Need a Tune Up?

FREE 15 Minute Check-Up • Consult with our experts • Review your problem • Receive recommendations on relieving your pain and improving motion

Roger Howard, CPO, Director

CALL TODAY (315) 786-8973

Offer good for the First 20 people who schedule. Expires 8-27-18

ChickenQuesadillas • 2 tbsp low sodium chicken broth • 1⁄4 cup onion, chopped

• 1 small garlic clove, minced • 1⁄4 cup bell pepper, chopped • 2 chili peppers, minced (to taste) • 3 plum tomatoes, chopped • 8 flour tortillas • 1 cup low-fat cheddar cheese, shredded • 1 1⁄2 cups cooked chicken, shredded • scallion, cut on the bias (garnish) • nonfat sour cream (garnish)

5

4

4 5 2 7

In a medium-heavy skillet, saute the onions, garlic and peppers until soft in the 2 tablespoons chicken broth. Add the chili peppers and tomatoes and simmer for a few minutes more until the liquid has evaporated. Add the chicken and stir well to combine. Spray a cold skillet with the nonstick spray and heat over medium heat. Place a tortilla in the pan and sprinkle with 1/8 cup cheese. Add about a quarter of the chicken mixture and top with another 1/8 cup cheese. Cover with another tortilla and cook for two to three minutes or until golden brown. Flip the quesadilla over and cook for an additional two minutes. 2 3 8 6 4 2 1 7 9 5 7 3 2 1 4 5 8 2 9 4 7 8 SUDOKU PUZZLE 9 8 6 5 9 http://1sudoku.com n° 229777 - Level Medium

5

3

http://1sudo

7

3 9 6

3 8 1 7 5

1 6

2 8 9

4

3 5

4 8 2

4 5

3 9 6

7

9 2 5

4 1

4 2 6

8

http://1sudoku.com

n° 228310 - Level Medium

http://1sudo

5 2

8

9

6

Exercise Essentials

Try this simple exercise to help you feel better... Always consult your physical therapist or physician before starting exercises you are unsure of doing.

Hip Abduction Isometric Stand beside a wall. Position a pillow between your knee and the wall. Push your leg into the pillow, against the wall. Hold for 6 breaths repeat 5 times on both sides.

Exercises copyright of

www.simpleset.net

S H A R E P l ease sha r e t hese exercises with friends and family members to help them stay healthy and free from pain. S A V E Save these in a place where you can easily use them as needed. Watch for more exercises in our next issue.

We Listen, We Care, We Get Results CALL TODAY (315) 786-8973