Premier Physical Therapy - Sept / Oct 2017

Premier Physical Therapy - Sept / Oct 2017

Sept/Oct 2017

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13947 Beach Blvd. #109, Jacksonville, FL 32224 100 Executive Way, Suite 100, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082

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SERVE After the Storm

you see other people suffering.What’s the answer? Find a way to SERVE.You’ve probably noticed this acronym on our newsletter, because it is our mission to SERVE you.To provide you with Service, Expertise, Results,Value, and Excellence, before and after the storm (and during, if we are able). I’m lucky to have a wonderful wife who reminds me of the importance of service, too.When I get frustrated about the little aspects of life beyond my control, she reminds me that in serving and doing my best to heal people, I’m doing God’s work. That’s what we are doing at Premier PT.We were tested by the storm in different ways. Some of us lost power for a few hours, a few of us lost it for a few days, and one member of our team had to go without water or power for an entire week. But we all handled the situations well and are ready to be here for you. After only a day, we were able to get back to our work. We’re doing our best to serve you. That’s what we’re all doing, isn’t it? Doing our best to prepare and stay calm in the face of each storm— and serve others when we are back on our feet. Here’s your reminder to do just that. How to Deal With the Unexpected

Last weekend, I was reminded of how we so often deal with situations beyond our control. It was during a sermon at church about God’s will. His will isn’t for us to suffer.When it comes to storms, we have to remember He doesn’t have control over the weather or our health. Sometimes things don’t play out the way we expect them to.Any of us living through hurricane season in Florida know this.We’ve been dealt two big storms in the last two years with Matthew and Irma. Both forced us to deal with the unexpected. Last year, we decided to evacuate because it was more serious, while this year, we chose to stay because the situation didn’t look as bad. Luckily, the storm had minimal interruptions in store for us.We were able to get back to serving people and had no damage to our homes. Folks living just across the border in Georgia near the St. Mary’s River weren’t as fortunate. St. Mary’s is known to flood, but it caught many of them off guard. For my in-laws, this meant a big pickup truck came to their rescue as they dealt with potentially losing vehicles, lawn mowers, and other belongings.They’re taking it in stride, but it’s a frustrating experience. I realize we’re not all that lucky.

There’s anxiety in dealing with the unexpected that causes a series of “what ifs” to run through our head. What if the storm is really bad?What if the power goes out?What if I can’t leave my house? Even scarier, what if I lose my house? Anyone faced with an injury knows a lot about dealing with the unexpected. Just as nature is fragile, so is our health. Injuries and pain can trigger the same responses that a storm does.What if I have to have surgery?What if I can’t return to running?What if I don’t get better? Fortunately, we have talented people at Premier Physical Therapy whose job it is to take care of your health. Unlike the weather, you can take some aspect of control back when you choose physical therapy. It’s our job as PTs to examine the situation and reassure you that things won’t always be as bad as you think and they will get better. Even if your shoulder is in pain, it will get better. Even if your knee is injured, there are ways to get mobility back. I know everyone has their own concerns, and it can be easy to be selfish and only think of ourselves. Sometimes, you make it out of the storm just fine and feel thankful, and that makes you feel guilty because

Chris Kopp PT

S ervice E xpertise R esults V alue E xcellence

www.premierptjax.com • 1

DO KIDS’ MENUS

Do More Harm Than Good?

Kids can be picky eaters. Kids can be picky eaters.This is a fact recognized by parents and restaurants alike — hence the classic children’s menu featured at many restaurants around the country.These menus are virtually identical: chicken tenders, mac and cheese, grilled cheese, french fries, and so on. Kids’ menus are loaded with fried foods and cheap carbs. Some parents love the kids’ menu. It makes deciding on food easier. Or, at least, that’s what we tell ourselves. Kids’ menus are populated with foods practically every kid loves. But they have a dark side.Aside from poor nutrition, the kids’ menu changes the family dynamic. In an interview with Eater.com, television chef and host Alton Brown (who you may know from “Good Eats,” “Iron Chef America,” and “Cutthroat Kitchen”) said, “Never, ever, ever, ever, ever let your kid eat from the

When you encourage your kids to avoid the children’s menu, you give them an opportunity to expand their flavor horizons. More importantly, it helps them make healthier choices that aren’t loaded with fat and empty carbs. Make going out to dinner a learning experience, and before you know it, the phrase “kids’ menu” will have disappeared from your family’s vocabulary.

children’s menu at restaurants and never, ever, ever make your kid special food to allow them to avoid whatever the family is eating.” Why? During his “Alton Brown Live!” tour, he explained that it comes down to control. By giving kids the option of the children’s menu, you relinquish culinary control to your kids.The next time you go out as a family or you make a delicious meal at home, they are more likely to demand “their” food. This is a habit a child can quickly adopt — and a habit that’s tough to break. Kids are picky eaters because, as parents and adults, we let them be picky eaters.We perpetuate bad habits. But it doesn’t have to be this way. In a Mom.me article, Dr. Cara Natterson suggests kids eat what the rest of the family eats. For instance, let them indulge in the appetizer menu, then build up to the entrée menu and let them share and sample your food. Encourege culinary exploration.

PREMIER PT UPDATES!

“I had been to two different doctors and two different physical therapy offices, and every one of them thought I had a swollen groin. With my last competitive season of college soccer fast approaching, I was scared because my injury was not getting any better. When I came in to see Chris, he worked with me and soon told me that the other doctors were wrong. Three weeks later, I had surgery on a hernia that every other doctor (except for Chris) had missed. Following my surgery, I continued to go to Premier Physical Therapy, and I began to finally feel stronger. I owe my senior year of soccer to the guys and women at Premier. From the bottom of my heart, thank you to all the staff.”

PENDING

–Andrew Z.

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for Knee Pain Sufferers TIPS 3 Shoe-Buying

When you suffer from knee pain and stiffness, finding the right pair of shoes can make a difference. The right shoes can help alleviate some of the stress that is placed on the knee. However, for those with osteoarthritis, tendonitis, or any number of other conditions affecting the knee, tracking down that perfect pair of shoes is often a problem. To help make your next shoe search easier, here are a few tips to keep in mind. Ask for assistance. When you know your shoe size and the style you want, it’s tempting to visit the shoe store, get in, and get out — all without consulting anyone. The truth is, consulting a shoe expert can make a world of difference. For instance, many athletic shoe stores have the tools and know- how to set you up with a great pair of shoes.

Go flat. Heeled shoes, both high and low, place a lot of strain on the knees, a notion confirmed by a Harvard Medical School study. When you shop for footwear, focus on shoes that offer even footing from heel to toe. There should be minimal difference in the sole’s thickness at the front of the shoe and the back. Soft, but not too soft. Well-padded soles help reduce the amount of strain placed on the knee. A good cushion will absorb the impact from walking, giving your knees much-needed relief. But you don’t want padding that is too soft. When padding is too soft, you risk not getting the proper amount of support your feet require. It’s all about achieving balance between padding and support, something a shoe expert can help you find.

REFRIED BEAN POBLANOS WITH CHEESE

This vegetarian meal comes together in less than 15 minutes. It’s the perfect way to avoid takeout on a busy weeknight.

INGREDIENTS

We moved our clinc out of Sawgrass Country Club right up the road to 100 Executive Way, Suite 100, Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida (by Al’s Pizza, Bank of America, and the Ponte Vedra Cultural Center). WE HAVE MOVED! LOOKING FOR US?

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½ cup picante sauce

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4 medium poblano chilies, halved and seeded 1 (16-ounce) can fat-free refried beans 1 (8.8-ounce) pouch microwaveable cooked long- grain rice

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1 cup (4 ounces) pre-shredded reduced-fat 4-cheese Mexican blend

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Chopped fresh cilantro (optional)

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DIRECTIONS

Recipe courtesy of CookingLight.com. with 2 tablespoons cheese, and microwave on high 1–2 minutes or until cheese melts. Sprinkle with cilantro, if desired. Cover with wax paper; microwave on high 2 minutes. 3. Uncover chilies, sprinkle each half

1. Place chili halves, cut sides up,

on a round microwave-safe plate. Cover with wax paper; microwave on high 3 minutes.

2. While chilies cook, combine

beans, rice, and picante sauce in a medium bowl, stirring well. Spoon bean mixture into chili halves.

www.premierptjax.com • 3

S ervice E xpertise R esults V alue E xcellence

13947 Beach Blvd #109 Jacksonville, FL 32224 www.premierptjax.com (904) 996-6922

PRST STD US POSTAGE PAID BOISE, ID PERMIT 411

HAPPY

Local EVENTS

Join us for our

back and sciatic workshop

Tuesday, Oct 17, 6:30 p.m. Taylor Place

Use Diffusers to Reap the Benefits of Essential Oils

extremely effective, but they are also large and expensive. Ultrasonic diffusers are similarly heatless, preserving the oils.This type of diffuser can also work as a humidifier, making it a valuable multitasker. Heat and evaporative diffusers are cheaper options, but they tend to alter oils or separate particles according to size. Once you decide on the best diffuser for your home, you need to select a few essential oils and put your new toy to use. Lemon oil is antibacterial and antiseptic, and will freshen your environment. Cinnamon oil can clear congestion and has a homey, autumnal scent. Eucalyptus oil is an air purifier, but its scent is strong and not for everybody. If you want to de-stress, try rosemary oil, which decreases your cortisol levels. Take note that you should alert your doctor before partaking in aromatherapy if you’re pregnant, nursing, or on any medication. While most essential oils are perfectly safe to diffuse, the compounds in certain oils can combine with medication and trigger adverse side effects. Once you begin diffusing, you’ll never go back to commercial, chemical scent sprays. The benefits are evident, and the results smell sweet.

If you’ve stopped by a health store recently, you’ve no doubt seen a huge selection of essential oils. These liquids, which contain concentrated, natural aroma compounds found in plants, are the basis of aromatherapy, one of the most popular trends in holistic health. Aromatherapy involves applying these oils to the skin or spraying them into the air. Skin application requires that you use diluted oils, because aromatic compounds are strong and can cause irritation. As a result of these concerns, many essential oil acolytes have turned to diffusers to get the benefits of aromatherapy in a safe, wonderful-smelling manner. In addition to filling your house with an all-natural, appealing perfume, aromatherapy has been touted as a way to help with everything from stress and insomnia to cognitive function and mood enhancement. To receive these benefits, you’ll need to pick up a diffuser and some oils. With so many options, though, how do you know which one is right for you? There is no shortage of methods for diffusing essential oils. Nebulizing diffusers don’t require any heat source, instead atomizing the essential oils.They are

4 • Call Us! (904) 996-6922