Synergy Healthcare: How Posture Affects Back and Neck Pain

Synergy Healthcare: How Posture Affects Back and Neck Pain

The Chronicle Getting You Back on Track

THE FOUNDATION OF OUR BODIES Core Stabilization

Core stabilization increases low back strength, prevents future injuries, and reduces pain. It is also an excellent exercise for people recovering from injuries, or who have low back or hip pain caused by instability in the hips.

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Inside This Newsletter • Staff Spotlight • Patient Success Spotlight • How Poor Posture Contributes to Back Pain

The Chronicle Getting You Back on Track

THE FOUNDATION OF OUR BODIES Core Stabilization

Having strength in your core gives your body a great deal of stability. When you have that stability, you are much less prone to injury and pain. Part of the rehabilitation process is to create this inner strength to help with your current injury or pain and to prevent future injuries. Your core muscles are the muscles deep in your abdomen and pelvis (hips). Creating strength in these muscles stabilizes your hips, which are a very important part of the structure of the entire body. When learning core stabilization, you’ll be given exercises to do at home, directed by a Physical Therapist. History: Core stabilization dates back more than 50 years and was introduced in the US during the 1960s to treat neurological disorders and spinal injuries. It focuses on using the deep muscles of the entire torso in a coordinated movement. The strengthening of these core muscles stabilizes the spine, pelvis, and shoulders, and forms a solid base for movements of the arms and legs. The primary areas of focus of this training are rectus abdominis, internal and external obliques, transversus abdominis, and multifidus. It has been suggested that in almost 90% of all body movements, core muscles are actively supporting the entire trunk region. Core Stabilization is effective as a long-term solution to recurring back and neck pain. At Synergy, we offer an integrated approach to healing and recovery through physical and occupational therapy. Our highly trained therapists are ready to get you back on track fast! We try to prepare helpful articles that can help enrich your life. Have a question you want answered? Email us at info@synergyspokane. com or call at 509-413-1630 for more information. Give us a shout-out on Facebook– we love to hear what’s on your mind!

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HOWPOOR POSTURE CONTRIBUTES TO BACK PAIN

Chuck Depner was born and raised in Billings, Montana. He received his B.S. degree in Electrical Engineering and later attended Eastern Washington University where he studied to become a Physical Therapist graduating with a B.S. in 1993. Chuck began his Physical Therapy career as a traveling therapist working back east. He later moved to Spokane and worked for Holy Family in both the outpatient and inpatient therapies. He then moved on to work for Eagle Rehab, which was quickly bought out by HealthSouth. Most recently before coming to Synergy Healthcare in Spokane, WA, Chuck worked for Visiting Nurses Association providing in-home health care. In August, 2009 Chuck joined the staff at Synergy Healthcare as their Clinical Manager and “computer guy”. He specializes in Core Stabilization and joint mobilization techniques, and strain-counter strain venous, arterial, visceral, and neural techniques. In addition to being a therapist, Chuck enjoys hiking, skiing, and skating with his family. Chuck Depner, Physical Therapist When your spine is not in proper alignment, the muscles, ligaments, and joints are all under excessive strain, causing most episodes of back pain. The lower back supports most of the weight of the body and therefore is the most vulnerable to the effects of poor posture. Discs, which provide support between the spinal bones (vertebrae), are also affected by poor posture. However, with good posture, the spine is in proper alignment and the shock absorbing discs are less subject to injury. Often with poor posture, the spine will become fixed in an abnormal position. This leads to the constriction of blood vessels and nerves over time. Furthermore, this causes problems with the joints, discs, andmuscles. It is important to takecareofyourspine.Goodpostureeliminatesmanyof the health problems that can develop when the spine has an unhealthy posture. Since you performmany different movements and positions throughout the day (sitting, standing, bending, stooping, lying down, etc.) it is important to learn how to keep correct posture. Maintaining good posture during the day results in less back pain. When you correct bad posture habits, the new and improved movements tend to become more automatic and require very little effort to maintain. At Synergy Healthcare, we train you on the best way to attain and hold your posture throughout the day. We help you relieve your back pain quickly while improving your posture for maximum long term results!

Discover how our therapists can improve your posture and relieve your back or neck pain, allowing you to live a happy, active and pain-free life.

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Staff Spotlight

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Patient Success Spotlight

“I have been to many therapists, chiropractors, doctors and no one was able to help me with my neck and back problems. I was at the end of my rope and in so much pain. My sister-in-law suggested craniosacral therapy might be helpful, so I called around and found Synergy Healthcare and it was the best thing I ever did. The receptionist referred me to Shauna. After the first appointment Shauna said she could help and that she had a plan for me. I came home and told my husband I was so excited and relieved someone could finally help me and I started crying. It has been about 5 months, I have seen various therapists at Synergy Healthcare for different issues. I am able to do things I haven’t been able to do for several years. It is so nice to not be in pain all the time. I cannot thank Shauna and her team enough. I will be referring to everyone I know. - Terry M. “I cannot thank Shauna and her team enough. I will be referring to everyone I know.”

Always learning…Always growing…

Coupon Corner

No Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Energy Balls

INGREDIENTS • 2 cups of old-fashioned rolled oats • ½ cup of ground flax seed • 1 tablespoon of black chia seeds • 1 teaspoon of cinnamon • ½ cup of raw honey • ½ cup of peanut butter • 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract • 1 scoop vanilla whey protein powder • ½ cup of dark chocolate chips

Physical Therapy Occupational Therapy Massage Therapy

Gentle Yoga • Feldenkrais • Qigong VALID FOR ONE FREE MOVEMENT CLASS

INSTRUCTIONS 1. Add rolled oats, ground flax seed, chia seeds, cinnamon, honey, peanut butter, vanilla extract, and vanilla protein powder to food processor. 2. Pulse until ingredients are blended (about 7-9 times). 3. Add mixture to a large bowl, add in chocolate chips. Stir to combine. 4. Form energy bite mixture into 1” balls and place on parchment paper lined baking sheet. 5. Cover and place in refrigerator for 2 hours. 6. Serve! Author: Krista@https://www.joyfulhealthyeats.com/no-bake-chocolate-peanut-butter-energy-balls/

Phone: (509) 413-1630 Fax: (509) 413-1673

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All About Kids The Newsletter About Taking Care of the Ones That Matter Most

INTRODUCING YOUR CHILD TO PLAY DATES

Once upon a time, children roamed neighborhoods and played on street corners.The rules were simple: Be home before dinner, or in some cases, before it grew “too dark.” For better or worse, those days now elude us. In their place are scheduled events, aka playdates, with a whole new world of etiquette and expectations to follow. Whether you’re playing host or your child is heading elsewhere, here is a comprehensive look at ways to make it more successful -- for both of you. The rules of engagement Find that sweet spot in numbers. Depending on the age of the children and their abilities, knowing how many to include can vary. For babies, it’s really an opportunity for parents to congregate. Since infants don’t actually play together, the more may be merrier. For older kids, however, the term ‘three is a crowd’ is applicable. Try to distract any younger siblings with a friend or toy of their own; avoid situations where one child will be left out while the other two play. The least tricky number is, of course, one-on-one. Around age 4, children can often handle a few more in the mix, according to Parents magazine, though that does mean closer supervision is necessary. Take your role as caterer seriously No one runs well without food, and there are few places where this is truer than on playdates. Low blood sugar is a recipe for a terrible hang out time, so be prepared to keep the mood elevated with plenty o’ grub. If parents will be lingering, make sure there are snacks for them as well. Fruit snacks, popcorn, and veggies with hummus all make for popular replenishment. A full pitcher of water is helpful, too. Choose the right time There are good times -- and there are awful times. If your child turns from Jekyll into Hyde at 1:00, give yourself room on either side to avoid a meltdown. Keep in mind nap schedules and meal times. Likewise, if you’re going to need to rush your child to another activity at a certain point close to the playdate, allow for some downtime between events. If you’re planning hang time away from the house, consider when that place will be the most packed and try to avoid it then. Prepare the space Not all toys are created equal. If you know your child will throw a fit if forced to share, say, her favorite Hot Wheel, keep the car tucked far away.That is

unless there are two of that toy, in which case display them prominently. Playdates aren’t necessarily the best time to try to enforce concepts like sharing if you can thwart the issue well in advance. If the little fry does get into a quarrel over a specific toy, consider giving the toy -- not the children -- a time out. Keep in mind that visitors don’t know the rules of your house so it’s important to put away belongings that are untouchable and clarify rules that other families may not follow. For instance, if the idea of children jumping on your couch sends you railing, it’s best to tell the parents and children ahead of time. After all, couch-jumping may be If children are miserable or can’t be consoled, it’s time to call quits on the playdate. For babies and toddlers, an hour is usually a good landing point. Most preschoolers can handle two or three hours, but a watchful eye can determine if that is too much. Successful playdates are important for children and parents alike. A little attention and preparation go a long way. As with all things child-related, knowing when to change course is just as important (if not more). perfectly acceptable elsewhere. Know when to say goodbye

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SPECIALIZING IN : Sensory Integration/Processing • Listening Therapies • Gross Motor & Coordination Skills Development • Play Skills • Fine Motor/ Visual Motor Skill Development • Oral Motor/Oral Sensory Development • Speech/Articulation Development • Expressive-Receptive Language Therapy • Literacy & Cognitive Development • Social Language Skills

All About Kids The Newsletter About Taking Care of the Ones That Matter Most

4 REASONS TO PLAY OUTSIDE WITH YOUR SPECIAL NEEDS CHILD Children with special needs are still children above all else. That means they savor the breeze blowing in their hair, the vivid colors of nature splashing in their eyes, and the textures of dirt and sand under their fingertips. While outdoor play brings challenges for some children, the necessity for it cannot be overstated. The benefits, including physical, psychological, and intellectual, are remarkable. Here are four reasons why your child with special needs should head outdoors every day -- or as frequently as is manageable.

1. Playing outdoors promotes creativity and imaginative play. The unstructured methods of play that occur outdoors allow children to interact with their environment in natural, meaningful ways. For many children with special needs, days can be incredibly limiting with rules governing every aspect of time. Being outdoors allows them to think more freely and direct their play in ways of their own choosing. Playing pretend can open windows into how children think and feel, even if they have limited verbal skills in ‘real life.’ As an observer, you can watch your child transform sticks into people, swords, houses, and animals, or leaves into fairy houses and food. If you pay close attention, you’re apt to recognize in your child a whole world of thoughts and emotions that you wouldn’t access if you stayed inside. 2. It improves physical fitness. Children of all abilities often have limitedopportunities toenjoy physical activities.Videogames and television are the contemporary jump ropes and tree houses of years past. This is particularly true for children with physical or behavioral limitations. To be sure, only one in three children are physically active every day, according to medical professionals specializing in pediatrics.Throughout the nation, 25.6 percent of persons with a disability reported being physically inactive during a usual week, compared to 12.8 percent of those without a disability. Yet people of every age and ability still need to engage in activities that promote body wellness. Being outdoors is a natural way to encourage these behaviors. Children can see improvements in flexibility, muscle strength, and coordination. Active outdoor play can increase body awareness, balance, cardiovascular efficiency, and motor skills. Even 15 minutes of physical activity can lengthen a person’s lifespan. 3. Outside time reduces fatigue and stress. One in three adolescents suffers from chronic stress, according to a 2013 survey from Stockholm University. Eight percent contend with stress so much that they would qualify for a clinical diagnosis of burnout if they had been adults. So while young people’s lives becomemorestressful due toheightenedexpectations, conflicting responsibilities, adult pressures, and unrealistic goals, they have fewer outlets to cope. According to Attention Restoration Theory, urban environments demand focused attention, thereby leaving people

exhausted. Going outdoors can significantly help with these concerns. There, children can practice an effortless form of concentration called soft fascination. This mode of being promotes happiness and health rather than stress. Children with ADHD demonstrate the greatest improvements in concentration and behavior when heading outdoors, and soft fascination is often the reason. 4. Outdoor play increases confidence. It’s an unfortunate fact, but many children with special needs and those who require pediatric physical therapy struggle with issues of self-esteem. Rather than being differently abled, they are perceived as disabled and that doesn’t make for confidence boosts. However, going outside to play can help.There are infinite ways to interact with the environment that don’t rely on prescribed rules. Children can dictate how they play, which leads to increased success. Naturally, success leads to confidence. Likewise, there are no judgments in nature. The ocean, trees, rocks, and grass don’t tease. If your child struggles with cognitive, physical, or sensory limitations, pediatric therapy may be the solution. A trained physical therapist can help increase independent living skills while tending to children’s psychological, social, and environmental needs as well.

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