The Physical Therapy Doctor - March 2022

The Physical Therapy Doctor - March 2022

theptdoctor.com

718.747.2019

Hours of Operation: Monday–Friday 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.

March 2022

ON THE

MOVE

POP-POP SAL'S BEST JOKES HE MAY BE GONE, BUT HIS HUMOR ISN’T!

I've never met anyone who loved to laugh more than my grandpa, Salvatore Russo, known to us grandkids as Pop- Pop Sal because of the popping sound he could create with his finger plucking out his cheek. From the time I was small, he was always ready with a funny one-liner or wisecrack. If my brother and I didn't want to finish our dinners, for instance, and started whining about it to our mom, Pop-Pop would look at us and say, "If you don't eat it, you're going to wear it!" I wasn't sure what to make of that as a little kid, but it sure got my attention. Was he going to put my spaghetti on my head? Dump it in my lap? I didn't know, but the twinkle in Pop-Pop's eye told me I didn't want to find out. I cleaned my plate, and to this day, I still do! One of my all-time favorite Pop-Pop Sal memories happened during a family game of trivia in the early '80s. My brother had this little plastic device full of rolled up papers with questions on one side and answers on the other. We went through a bunch of them, and finally got to this zinger: "Who invented the toilet bowl?" Without missing a beat, Pop-Pop blurted out, "Flush Gordon!" The movie "Flash Gordon" had just come out, and we all fell off our chairs laughing. I cracked up for a good 10 minutes. Then, my brother read the real answer: "Sir Thomas Crapper." We looked it up later and as it turned out he did invent a part of the toilet, called the ballcock, that's still used in

toilets today. The fact that this guy is associated with the flush toilet bowl is just too funny and we couldn't control our laughter back then. None of us could believe it. I've never seen Pop- Pop howl with laughter like that. His curly white hair was standing up all over the place. Pop-Pop loved to tell jokes so much that he even brought them home from work. One of my favorite of those was a word puzzle he wrote down for me and my brother when we went to visit him and my grandma in the Poconos. It looked like this:

Man, oh man, we could not figure that out. But as soon as Pop-Pop demonstrated it for us we couldn't stop laughing! I still remember exactly how he sounded now, more than 30 years later. My Pop-Pop Sal passed away a few weeks ago. He was born on St. Patrick's Day so I'll always remember him at this time of year. Pop-Pop's middle name was Patrick and he may have had a bit of luck of the Irish because he was 97 when he passed. He kept his sense of humor and sharp wit right up until the end. I'll always miss his jokes, and I'll think of him every time I eat black licorice (his favorite), play catch with my kids, or think back on my confirmation (I chose him to be my sponsor). I also have a deep respect for him because he was a World War II veteran. And even though he's gone, his humor and spirit live on in all of us. I hope you enjoyed Pop-Pop's wisecracks as much as I did!

FUNEM SVFM FUNEX SVFX OKMNX

"Okay," Pop-Pop said, "Read those letters out as fast as you can!" My brother tried and tried, but he couldn't get it to make sense! "Foonum?" he guessed. "Suffum?" Meanwhile, Mom, Dad, Pop-Pop, and Grandma were dying of laughter in the background. Try it yourself and see if you can figure it out before you keep reading. Did you get it? Alright, I'll give the game away. When you say the letters fast enough, it should sound like this:

Have you any ham? Yes, we have ham! Have you any eggs? Yes, we have eggs! Okay, ham and eggs!

–Dr. Robert Morea

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Nearly 1 in 4 U.S. adults have been diagnosed with arthritis - and as the population ages, those numbers are only expected to increase. Arthritis affects the joints, and it can have a significant impact on a person's well-being, ability to work, and overall quality of life. With cases being so prevalent, it's wise to know the facts. Who is at risk of arthritis, and what are the treatments? Here's everything you need to know. Symptoms The symptoms of arthritis will largely depend on the type of arthritis a person has. There are over 100 different types of arthritis, but the most common are osteoarthritis, and rheumatoid arthritis. Most types cause stiffness or pain in the joints, and it can affect only one joint, some joints but not others, or all joints. Some types of arthritis develop gradually, while others have a sudden onset, and symptoms may be persistent or come and go. If you suspect you have arthritis, you should visit a doctor for a formal diagnosis. Your physician will review your medical history, perform a physical examination, and request X-rays or blood tests to confirm your arthritis and the type. That way they can target treatment effectively. Arthritis Is More Prevalent Than You Realize GET THE FACTS

Risk Factors Unfortunately, not all the causes of many types of arthritis are known, but the existing science does have something to say about who is at risk of developing the condition. Some factors you can't control. For example, two-thirds of people with arthritis are women, and the risk of arthritis rises as you get older. Some people also have inherited genes that increase their disposition toward developing arthritis. Some factors, however, can be mitigated. People who are overweight or smoke are more likely to develop different types of arthritis. Studies have linked joint injury and infection to arthritis, so make sure to seek medical care for any pain or swelling. Further, people who don't engage in physical activity during leisure time are the most likely to have arthritis, so exercise may help prevent the condition. Also, poor muscle strength or an imbalance of strength can cause osteoarthritis to form in a single joint because it can wear unevenly. It has also been shown that rheumatoid arthritis, which is arthritis in many joints, has been linked to gut health and less than optimal nutrition. Treatment There is currently no cure for arthritis, but collaboration with a doctor or physical therapist can help you reduce the symptoms associated with it and prevent further breakdown. The goal of treatment is to reduce pain, minimize joint damage, and improve overall ability and function. Depending on the arthritis type, treatment can include physical therapy, exercise, nutritional corrections, medication, or even surgery. A doctor or physical therapist can help you understand how to move safely and recommend healthy exercises for your joints. But the key is to ask for help in the first place. If you suspect you have arthritis, or if your arthritis is currently untreated, you should seek the advice of a medical professional right away. There is hope for managing your condition, reducing your pain, and increasing your quality of life. A qualified doctor or physical therapist can help you improve your daily function and comfort so you can get back to doing the things you love.

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FREE

STRONGER BONES

TREATMENT

Do you have osteoporosis or osteopenia? – Will your bones withstand the impact if you were to fall? – Do you have low bone density? Are you pre- or post- menopause? – Are you taking medications that weaken your bones? Half of all adults age 50 and older (54 million Americans) have low bone density and are at risk of breaking a bone,

according to the National Osteoporosis Foundation. We realize many people are underestimating their needs when it comes to strengthening their bones. So, we set out to find a solution, and we came across the bioDensity machine!

Build Stronger Bones With

• Scientifically proven to build bone density 2%–4% per year • SAFE and EASY! No impact! • DRUG-FREE! • For ALL ages • Only one 10-minute session per week is all you need! • Covered by most health insurance plans This machine allows you to apply greater force to your muscles and bones in a safe manner that is not easily achieved with exercise bands or free weights.

Call now to schedule an appointment and watch your strength increase weekly! But hurry — this offer expires March 31st! When: Wednesday, March 16th Time: Call for an appointment (718.747.2019) Where: The PT Doctor clinic

The Physical Therapy Doctor 212-73 26th Ave. Bayside, NY 11360 718.747.2019 ThePTDoctor.com

DO YOU OR SOMEONE YOU KNOW HAVE PARKINSON’S DISEASE? • Are you worried that their condition is worsening? • Would you or your loved one like to try a treatment specifically designed for people with Parkinson’s disease?

Attend our FREE

workshop*

With Dr. Sam Souto, PT and certified LSVT BIG Practitioner ... and bring your loved one along!

LSVT BIG effectively trains and improves movements for any activity, whether small motor tasks like buttoning a shirt, large motor tasks like getting up from the sofa or chair, or maintaining balance while walking. The treatment improves walking, self-care, and other tasks by helping people recalibrate how they perceive their movements with what others actually see. It also teaches them how and when to apply extra effort to produce bigger motions — more like the movements of everyone around them. LSVT BIG trains people with Parkinson’s disease (PD) to use their body more normally.

When: Wednesday, March 23rd Time: 2 p.m. Where: The PT Doctor clinic *Limited seating so don’t wait. Call now and reserve your spot at 718.747.2019!

The Physical Therapy Doctor 212-73 26th Ave. Bayside, NY 11360 718.747.2019 ThePTDoctor.com

How to Treat Injuries at Home ICE OR HEAT?

Injuries You Should Apply Heat To If you have chronic pain, it’s best to apply heat to that area. This pain can tell you that your body hasn’t fully healed from the injury. You can use heat for muscle pain or soreness, stiff joints, arthritis, and recurring injuries.

Whenever we suffer an injury that doesn't require a doctor visit, we are usually told to do one of two things: ice the area or apply heat to it. Different injuries require different treatments. For example, applying heat to an ankle sprain will not help as much as applying ice. Let’s look at which injuries require heat or ice and how it relieves pain or reduces swelling.

Applying heat allows your blood vessels to expand and help your

Injuries You Should Apply Ice To You want to apply ice to acute or short-term injuries. Acute injuries consist of ankle or knee sprains, muscle or joint sprains, red or swollen body parts, and pain after an exercise. Icing an area will lower the amount of swelling you have and make the healing process quicker. Be sure to limit icing sessions to 20 minutes. Over-icing can irritate your skin or cause tissue damage. If you have an ice pack or frozen packages in your freezer, you can use those to treat the painful areas. If not, you can put ice in

muscles relax. Only use heat in 20-minute increments and don’t sleep with any heating treatment. This can cause blisters, irritation, and maybe burns. You can use heat for 2–3 days after the injury occurs. Use a heating pad or a hot, wet towel, or take a hot shower or bath to relieve pain.

An easy way to determine if you need to ice or heat an area is this: If it’s swollen, apply ice. If it’s stiff, use heat. But if you’re unsure if you should use ice or heat, or if the pain is still occurring after treatment, contact your PT for assistance. They will provide you with further treatment options to help you with your discomforts.

a bag. Wrap it or any other item you’re using in a paper towel or washcloth before applying it to your skin. You should continue to ice your injury for the next two days.

TAKE A BREAK!

EASY MARCH MADNESS CHILI

Inspired by MyRecipes.com

INGREDIENTS

• 2 lbs ground beef • 2 tbsp chili powder • 1 tbsp Creole seasoning

• 1 tsp ground cumin • 2 16-oz cans diced tomatoes • 2 16-oz cans small red beans • 2 8-oz cans tomato sauce

DIRECTIONS

1. In a deep pot, brown the beef, stirring often. 2. Once beef is cooked, add chili powder, Creole seasoning, and cumin, cooking for 1 minute. 3. Stir in diced tomatoes, beans, and tomato sauce and bring the mixture to a boil. 4. After the mixture boils, reduce the heat to low and let chili simmer for 15 minutes. 5. Serve with toppings of choice, like cheese, sour cream, or chives.

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718.747.2019

theptdoctor.com 212-73 26th Ave. Bayside, NY 11360

Hours of Operation: Monday–Friday 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.

1. ROBERT SHARES HIS GRANDPA’S BEST JOKES 2. EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT ARTHRITIS 3. IS YOUR INJURY SWOLLEN OR STIFF? EASY MARCH MADNESS CHILI 4. YOUR GUIDE TO PROPER CLOTHING FOR PT INSIDE THIS ISSUE

Wait ... You Can’t Wear That! The Do’s and Don’ts of Dressing for PT

A physical therapy appointment isn’t exactly a night at the prom, but the two do have something in common: the moment you find yourself in front of the mirror wondering, “What the heck should I wear?” If you’re nervous ahead of your first physical therapy appointment, let these do’s and don’ts guide your outfit choice. DO wear comfortable, flexible clothes. A pencil skirt may look great in the office, but it’s not the best outfit for physical therapy. You'll need to get physical at your appointment. If you don't have a good range of motion in your outfit — in other words, if you can’t toss a ball or do a lunge — it’s probably not PT-friendly. DON’T wear flip-flops or dress shoes. Closed-toed, high-traction sneakers and socks are better choices. There are

tripping hazards like mats and exercise balls in the clinic, and your PT would hate to see you get hurt when you’re there to get help! DO dress according to your injury. PTs generally ask that you wear a full outfit of loose-fitting clothing for treatment, but you need to pay particular attention to the area of your injury. A tight-fitting sweater will make it hard for your PT to access your rotator cuff, and if you have a knee injury, then tight leggings are a bad choice. Instead, look for pants you can roll up over your knee. DON’T come straight from the gym. Since activewear and close-toed shoes are recommended for PT, you might be tempted to book your appointment right after your gym visit or hospital shift. Don’t do it! Your clothes need to be clean, not sweaty or germ-covered.

DO layer up. Physical therapy often involves heating pads and cold compresses, which can make you sweat or shiver. To keep yourself comfortable, wear layers you can peel off or add on according to your treatment. DON’T lather on lotion. Some PTs recommend against using lotion before your appointment because “it can reduce the traction that the therapist needs for your treatment.” When in doubt, go without.

With these tips in your back pocket, you can start or return to PT with confidence.

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