OPTM Physical Therapy - April/May 2022

OPTM Physical Therapy - April/May 2022

MOTION Monthly BEAUTY ON THE BALL DIAMOND WHY I’M A BASEBALL FAN I always feel a little extra excitement each April. My whole life, the start of this month has marked the return of one of my favorite sports: baseball. I grew up playing baseball anywhere I could. I picked up games with my neighborhood friends, and I played little league and school baseball. I was active in other sports, as well, but I always went back to baseball. I’ve never really been able to explain why. I enjoyed playing pitcher because that meant I could be in the action. I enjoyed controlling the pace and playing a chess match of sorts with every batter who came to the plate. I think that’s what has kept me coming back to baseball all these years. There are those who think it’s a boring or slow-moving sport, but I think they don’t appreciate the mental component of baseball. It’s a very intellectual game as each pitch heightens the stakes. I enjoy that anticipation. All it takes is one pitch, one hit, or one catch to completely change a game, and you never know when that will happen. Of course, there’s another great reason I love baseball. It evokes a sense of community. Sports are great for this. I’ll watch a game or two by myself, but I love watching sports with my friends or my family. It’s the camaraderie of a sport that brings us together — no matter what we believe or where we come from. I think the best example of this came from the 2020 season. I felt upset like other baseball fans that the season was postponed and shortened, but when baseball did come back, it felt like a breath of fresh air. It was just what we all needed! It was an escape to cheer for our favorite teams and to watch each game unfold. Even if the season was shortened, we still had an outlet that brought us together in a way few other things can. Of course, we faced a similar issue this baseball season. As contract issues got sorted out between owners and players, baseball fans like myself waited in eager anticipation for spring training to

Make Your Move to Better

start. Once the season started, I felt the same excitement as I did in 2020. Nothing can replace that feeling of opening day. As a baseball fan, I have my favorite team. I’ve rooted for the San Francisco Giants for as long as I can remember. I try to make it out to a game with some friends whenever I can, which hasn’t been possible the past few years. But my son and I like to root for them at home! He is too young to understand what is happening, of course. He just enjoys smacking the snot out of the ball and cheering for home runs. As a dad, I love watching Zach find interest in the things I like, too. I can’t wait to take him to the ballfield and root for the Giants with him. (Although, I’ll support whichever team he chooses to like!) This baseball season, I hope you tune in to a game or two. Buy a few tickets to the ballpark or follow our local teams. Invite some friends, particularly those who know about baseball, and connect over something that isn’t that serious. I think you will be surprised at just how invested in the strategy and camaraderie you become.

Go Giants!

–Dr. Ben Turner

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4 MONEY-SAVING TRAITS OF PT

In the past, our team has readily explained to our readers that physical therapy can actually save patients money because it’s more affordable than surgery. But there are so many other ways in which patients can keep their cash and find relief. In the spirit of Financial Literacy Month, we broke it down for you.

SUCCESS STORIES

“Finding a physical therapy practice that would take new clients in the Bay Area without a wait was a major challenge. OPTM was the only place that was able to help. I just finished a course of treatment following meniscus surgery, and last weekend I went for a three- hour hike and then a 5-mile run the next day, with no symptoms of pain. The office was well organized, and the equipment was constantly being cleaned. My therapist was Tyler, who was highly skilled and knowledgeable, and helped give me extra motivation. I would not hesitate to recommend this place.”

1. Target the source: There are many treatment options for pain management. From wearing a brace to undergoing surgery or taking pills, pain management is an investment. So, why would you waste it? Physical therapy is designed to target the direct root and cause of your pain, rather than treating the symptoms. So, where pain medication and braces mitigate your pain, physical therapy stops it from occurring in the first place. 2. Take fewer days off: Taking a rest or mental health day is an important component to wellness, but when your pain is so bad that you can’t work, sleep, drive, walk, or play, you’re not just resting. You’re missing out on life! This can be detrimental to your budget, and it could limit potential opportunities from opening up to you. For instance, you may be hesitant to take on a side gig if your knees make it difficult for you to stand for long periods of time. Physical therapy can fix that. 3. Enjoy preventive care: When you can heal your injury affordably, you have more health care dollars to spend elsewhere. This can be extremely beneficial for older adults or those with other conditions, who need to closely monitor their wellness. This equates to greater preventive care, which is more affordable and effective. (Plus, physical therapy can help you prevent further injuries and treatment costs!) 4. Time is money: This old adage rings true. Would you rather spend more time healing from surgery or progressively improving with physical therapy appointments? While therapy won’t cure you overnight, you will experience tangible results week after week. This means you spend less time healing and more time getting back to doing what you love. What are you waiting for? If you or a loved one are looking for an affordable pain management solution, contact OPTM of Saratoga today.

– D.J.

“I’ve had a great experience working with the OPTM staff and my PT, Natalie. From the get-go you could tell Natalie was experienced and knowledgeable, in addition to being attentive, friendly, and patient. She always brought a fun and positive attitude to our sessions, which made challenging exercises more enjoyable. My issues were resolved in a reasonable time and catered to my improvement without feeling rushed to complete sessions. Most of my family has used OPTM, and if needed in the future I would not hesitate to be back.”

– A.B.

“I was so pleased with the service I received from Natalie at OPTM. She was clearly very experienced and knowledgeable. She paired that with compassion, patience, and a being a good listener. I appreciated the exercises she gave me to do at home, so that I could feel like I was working on things between my appointments. She has a great attitude, is efficient and has a good sense of humor. The issue I went in for was resolved in a very reasonable amount of time, but I never felt rushed. I would definitely utilize this service again, if needed.”

– L.H.

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www.optmsaratoga.com

408-973-7700

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ATTENTION BACK PAIN AND SCIATICA SUFFERERS! Back By Request … Wednesday, May 4, 2022 at 7 p.m.

Do you suffer with back pain or leg pain when you stand or walk? Do you have pain when you sit for or drive long periods? Do you experience pain, numbness, or tingling in your butt, in your groin, or down your leg? Does your back ever “go out” if you move the wrong way? Are you afraid your pain will get worse if you don’t do anything about it? If you have answered YES to any of the above questions (or have a stubborn spouse who is in denial), the Back Pain and Sciatica Workshop may be a life-changing event for you…

Back pain and sciatica can completely ruin your life.

It can make you lean on the shopping cart when walking through the grocery store (how embarrassing). It can take focus away from your favorite activities, like spending time with your children or grandchildren. It can mess up your work or force you to do a job you don’t want to do. It can ruin your travel plans. It can force you to rely on others.

Basically, it can take away your ability to live life.

And less movement and enjoyment of life can lead to depression, increased stress, and a sedentary lifestyle, which then lead to bigger health problems — and life problems.

Here at the Back Pain and Sciatica Specialists at OPTM Physical Therapy of Saratoga, we’ve helped hundreds of people right here in Saratoga and the rest of the Silicon Valley who have suffered needlessly with lower back pain and sciatica. It’s our specialty.

We’re hosting an online Back Pain and Sciatica Workshop on May 4, at 7 p.m.

ATTENTION BACK PAIN AND SCIATICA SUFFERERS! Back By Request … Wednesday, May 4, 2022 at 7 p.m.

If you’re confused about what to do and looking for answers, here’s some of what you’ll learn:

The single biggest mistake back pain and sciatica sufferers make that actually stops them from healing The three most common causes of lower back pain and sciatica A surefire way to pick the right treatment for the cause of your pain (and save a lot of time and money) How a problem in your back can cause pain, numbness, or tingling in your leg What successful treatment and permanent relief looks like without the side effects of medications, injections, or surgery.

SERVING YOU AFTER SERVING FOR US

3 Ways PT Benefits Veterans

Memorial Day is an opportunity to remember the sacrifices made by military members who lost their lives while serving our country. However, it can also be an important reminder that we must not forget to care for our veterans. Serving your country doesn’t come without its turmoil, but for many, the physical scars can linger just as long as the mental ones. Some of the most common injuries veterans can face are tinnitus (persistent ear ringing), mobility issues, and strains and sprains. These are all issues physical therapy can remedy. TINNITUS This injury is most common because of the loud sounds associated with military duties, including weaponry training and airplane work. Physical therapists are not hearing experts, but they are licensed professionals in managing balance concerns. This can be common among those with tinnitus, as the ringing is often a sign of an inner ear concern. To combat this, physical therapists use vestibular rehabilitation therapy to help strengthen and improve balance. MOBILITY PROBLEMS Stiff and achy joints can be the product of years of misuse or improper form. Because military work is physically demanding, it’s not uncommon for veterans to struggle with joint pain. Physical therapists can help veterans with this ailment by strengthening the tendons and muscles that surround the joint, providing a greater base of support for joints. Joint health is also closely correlated to movement. So, the more you

can move — and do so correctly — the healthier your joints will be. Physical therapists can teach you how.

STRAINS AND SPRAINS When you strain or sprain something, you injure the tissues that connect bones together or in the instance of a strain, the muscle surrounding the bone. If this injury properly heals, you shouldn’t experience any long- term side effects. However, this isn’t always the case. Lingering issues due to improperly healed strains and sprains can leave you feeling stiff and in pain. Physical therapists can help you undo the improper healing and create a strong muscle system. After serving your country, you deserve the best medical care possible. If you (or someone you know) served our nation and are struggling with pain, please contact OPTM of Saratoga today.

ONE-PAN BAKED SALMON AND VEGGIES

WORD SEARCH

Inspired by BBCGoodFood.com

It’s asparagus season! Celebrate with this easy one-pan salmon dish for two.

• 1 lb spring INGREDIENTS

DIRECTIONS

1. Preheat the oven to 400 F. 2. In an oven-proof dish, combine the potatoes and 1 tbsp olive oil. Roast for 20 minutes. 3. Remove the dish from the oven and add the asparagus. Toss, and bake for 15 more minutes. 4. Remove the dish from the oven and add the cherry tomatoes. Toss. Drizzle with balsamic, then nestle the salmon fillets into the vegetables. Drizzle with the remaining oil, and bake for 10–15 minutes.

potatoes, halved

• 2 tbsp olive oil (divided) • 8 asparagus spears, trimmed and halved • 2 handfuls cherry tomatoes • 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar • 2 5-oz salmon fillets • 1 handful fresh basil

BLOOM CLEANING EARTH EASTER

FLOWERS FOOL PRANK RAMADAN

RECYCLE SPRING TEACHER VENUS

5. Remove the dish from the oven,

garnish with basil leaves, and serve!

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12930 Saratoga Ave. #B5 Saratoga, CA 95070 408-973-7700 www.optmsaratoga.com

Baseball Isn’t Boring! Hear Me Out … Page 1

Success Stories Page 2

Affordable and Effective: Why PT Makes Sense Page 2 3 Ways PT Can Help Veterans Page 3 One-Pan Baked Salmon and Veggies Page 3 Hate Souvenir Shopping? Let’s Make It Easy Page 4

PICKING THE PERFECT SOUVENIR

A way to preserve or share a piece of your trip is to bring home a souvenir, but choosing a souvenir isn’t always a stress-free experience. How do you pick the perfect souvenir and not just the first thing you see in a tourist shop? Here are some tips for picking a truly meaningful gift for yourself or your loved ones. WHO ARE YOU BUYING FOR? What are your recipient’s interests, or what do they spend the most time doing? If you’re buying for yourself and enjoy coffee, you might buy a local coffee blend to enjoy from home. However, if your recipient doesn’t enjoy coffee or rarely drinks it, that type of gift might not mean much to them. IS IT LEGAL TO BRING HOME? Whether you’re traveling domestically or internationally, there are many regulations that affect which souvenirs you can bring home. Even if you find the item in a tourist shop, that doesn’t mean it’ll be allowed into the country or even onto the plane. And the TSA does take this seriously. In 2012, two tourists were detained at the U.S. border for trying to bring home chocolate Kinder eggs — a specific kind that are illegal in the U.S. due to the potentially hazardous small toys inside.

PURCHASE A HANDICRAFT. Handicrafts — items created by local artisans — are awesome souvenirs! But make sure you buy where artisans actually sell their own goods, such as an open-air market. Unfortunately, while some popular tourist shops may sell “locally made goods,” many souvenirs intended for tourists are actually made by cheap manufacturers in other countries. KEEP SOMETHING FROM THE ADVENTURE. Bringing a glass bottle to take home some sand is a popular way of creating your own souvenir from a beach vacation. But you can do this with almost any item! Whether it’s stones, ticket stubs from favorite shows and activities, or a handmade item from a class, make sure to look out for souvenirs that’ll remind you of great memories and experiences.

We hope these tips will help you make the best choice. Bon voyage!

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www.optmsaratoga.com

408-973-7700

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