How the Body Balances
Explore the intricacies of the human body’s balance systems, common issues, and ways to ensure stability at every age.
Understanding Urethral Prolapse: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatments
If you’re living with urethral prolapse, you know that it can significantly affect your daily life, causing discomfort and various urinary issues. As a physical therapist with years of experience in pelvic health, I’ve seen firsthand how challenging this condition can be. Fortunately, with the right knowledge and proactive approach, managing urethral prolapse and feeling […]
A Physical Therapist’s Perspective on Supplements for Joint Health
A common question among older adults is whether supplements for joint health are a good idea. Maintaining joint health is crucial for ensuring mobility and a pain-free life. Healthy joints allow smooth movement, but inflammation and degeneration can lead to arthritis and osteoarthritis, which can significantly affect daily activities. Supplements like collagen, glucosamine, chondroitin, and […]
Upgrade Your Brain With Cognitive Exercise
When you think of exercise, you may think of typical forms such as running, cycling, or going to the gym. Exercise usually equates to training your body. However, not many people realize the importance of training your brain. So let’s introduce you to some great cognitive exercise practices to illustrate why keeping your brain sharp […]
What to Know About A Pinched Nerve in the Shoulder
Have you ever experienced a sharp, shooting pain radiating down your arm or felt tingling and numbness in your fingers? If so, you might be experiencing a pinched nerve in the shoulder joint. Identifying the source of this discomfort and how to fix it is essential, but it’s only possible with the proper knowledge, tools, […]
Unusual Stroke Symptoms: What Older Adults Need to Know
Most of us are familiar with the common symptoms of stroke, such as sudden numbness, confusion, or difficulty speaking. But do you know that strokes can also present in less obvious ways? A stroke, sometimes referred to as a “brain attack,” occurs when — at least in the case of ischemic strokes — blood flow to an […]
2024 Guide to Parkinson’s Disease: Symptoms, Treatments, and Exercise Benefits
Regardless of your age, its very likely that you know someone who is dealing with the effects of Parkinson’s Disease. Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a progressive brain disorder caused by a degeneration of nerve cells in an area of the brain that controls many aspects of movement, including speech. People with PD move through stages […]
Common Causes (and Solutions) to Age-Related Muscle Weakness
Muscle loss, or sarcopenia, is a common challenge for older adults, often leading to decreased strength and function. This decline can hinder daily activities, increase the risk of falls, and contribute to various health issues. However, sarcopenia is not inevitable. Nutrition, lifestyle, hormones, and underlying medical conditions influence its progression. Fortunately, effective strategies, including exercise, […]
The Best Sleep Habits for Healthier Living
Sleep, a crucial yet often neglected aspect of our health, significantly influences our physical well-being, mental acuity, and overall life quality. As a physical therapist, I’ve observed the substantial influence of sleep quality and duration on an individual’s health. This article will illuminate the significance of sleep, its effects on our health, and practical strategies […]
Stress Fracture Symptoms: What You Need to Know
Have you ever felt a sharp pain that started after exercise or a long walk? If the ache persists and worsens when applying pressure, you may have a stress fracture. As a physical therapist who’s worked with many older adults recovering from a variety of fractures, I’m passionate about helping older adults understand, manage, and […]
A Physical Therapist’s Perspective on Knee Pain When Bending
Have you ever felt pain or discomfort in your knee when you bend it? Or maybe a dull ache that lingers after you straighten it? If so, don’t panic just yet! Knee pain when bending is a common challenge for older adults, and it can have various causes. While it can be significant in some […]
Proven Parkinson’s Exercise Programs for Managing Symptoms
If you’ve been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, you are not alone. According to the Parkinson’s Foundation, nearly one million people in the United States are affected by this condition, and that number is expected to rise. One of the most effective ways to manage symptoms and improve quality of life is through Parkinson’s exercise programs. […]
The Importance of Physical Therapy for Parkinson’s Disease
Managing Parkinson’s disease can feel overwhelming without proper guidance. However, physical therapy for Parkinson’s Disease offers a highly effective way to mitigate symptoms and enhance your quality of life. In this article, we’ll explore how individualized exercise programs can significantly improve mobility, strength, and overall well-being for people with Parkinson’s. Discover the different types of […]
What Are the Five Types of Psoriatic Arthritis?
Many older adults struggle with one form of arthritis or another, and how you manage your condition can significantly impact your everyday life. While psoriatic arthritis can be complex, knowing more about the condition can help you make better choices for your health as you age.
All About Menopause and Joint Pain
Menopause is a natural stage that brings many changes, both seen and unseen. For many women, joint pain is an unexpected symptom that emerges during this transition. While it’s easy to attribute these aches and discomforts to aging, the real culprit may lie in the hormonal shifts that occur with menopause. As estrogen and progesterone […]
Why People Move Slower as They Age
Ever wondered why your once quick and effortless movements seem to slow down over the years? This gradual change isn’t just about getting older—it results from complex factors that affect your body and mind. These physical changes play a significant role, from shifts in muscle composition to a decline in heart and lung efficiency. But […]
Pickleball vs. Tennis: How Do They Stack Up?
Are you curious about the difference between pickleball vs. tennis? The rapidly growing sport of pickleball has piqued the interest of many people, including tennis enthusiasts. While both sports share a handful of characteristics, such as using racquets and a ball, they pose different physical demands, health benefits, accessibility, and social dynamics. In short, they’re […]
How to Improve Balance and Prevent Falls
Falling is one of the most significant risks for older adults, with one-third of adults over sixty-five experiencing a fall each year. These falls can lead to severe injuries, including fractures and long-term mobility issues. Fortunately, learning how to improve balance and prevent falls doesn’t have to be complicated. Incorporating a few simple exercises into […]
The Most Common Pickleball Injuries (And How to Avoid Them)
Wondering about how you can avoid pickleball injuries? Pickleball is a fun and social game rapidly gaining popularity, especially among seniors. It’s easy to learn and can be played at various difficulty levels. However, as with any physical activity, there is a risk of injury. Injuries can occur in most of the body’s major joints. […]
Improving Bone Strength Before Surgery: A Guide for Older Adults
Strong bones can provide the strength and resilience to bounce back quickly from surgery and prevent common injuries as you age. Improving your bone strength starts with increasing bone density, which is essential for maintaining strong, healthy bones. As we age, conditions caused by a loss of bone density, like osteoporosis and osteopenia, become more […]
Choosing the Best Walker for Your Needs
If your doctor has encouraged you to do so, choosing the best walker for you may seem intimidating. However, mastering the nuances of your walker will not only ensure safety and efficiency but significantly enhance your mobility and independence. Although any walker for seniors is designed to encourage safe movement, it’s crucial to recognize that […]
How to Pick the Best Shoes for Bunions
Bunions occur when the alignment or size of bones in your foot changes. This causes the big toe to lean toward the smaller toes and a bump to form at the base of the big toe. Bunions can cause pain, swelling, restricted movement, and calluses. Early identification and proper management are crucial to slowing or […]
Low Back Pain in Older Adults: What It Is, Why It Happens, and How to Treat It
Low back pain is a common problem that affects many older adults. While it may feel difficult to live with low back pain at times, several practical approaches to managing low back pain can help you stay active year after year.
The 7 Worst Habits For Brain Health — and What You Can Do About Them
Why Protect Your Brain? As degenerative brain disorders like dementia and Alzheimer’s disease continue to rise, taking steps to nourish your brain could not be more important to prevent cognitive decline. Many of the worst habits for your brain can make taking care of your most important asset harder than you might think. In this […]
How to Make a Physical Therapy Appointment
Making a physical therapy appointment can transform your health, especially for adults over 50. Physical therapy helps manage pain from arthritis or injuries, aids post-surgery recovery, and improves balance and mobility. PT also serves as preventive care by identifying potential problems early and treating work-related injuries. In this article, we’ll give you a concise rundown […]
Coronary Artery Disease: The Journey from Diagnosis to Recovery
Heart health becomes increasingly important as we age, and coronary artery disease (CAD) is a condition that many face without realizing its impact. CAD can lead to symptoms like chest pain and shortness of breath, and it’s a leading cause of heart-related issues in the U.S. With over $200 billion spent annually on CAD-related healthcare, […]
The Connection Between Hearing Loss and Brain Health
Hearing loss becomes more common as we age, but it’s more than just an inconvenience—it can profoundly affect our well-being. Hearing loss affects about one-third of individuals aged 65 to 74 and nearly half of those over 75, and it impacts more than just our ears. Research shows a strong link between hearing loss and […]
Bringing Care Home: The Impact of Telerehabilitation in Physical Therapy
The use of telerehabilitation—also known as telemedicine or telehealth—has changed the way physical therapy is delivered to adults of all ages and backgrounds. Using video technology, telerehabilitation allows older adults to receive the care they need from the comfort of their own homes. It has become a valuable part of modern healthcare. But what exactly […]
How to Start Your Day with a Healthy Morning Routine
As a trainer and health educator, I’ve witnessed the transformative power of a well-structured morning routine for active adults. In this article, I’ll highlight the research-based benefits of developing a healthy morning routine. The focus here isn’t on dramatic changes to your daily routine. Instead, I’ll concentrate on minor, manageable adjustments that can significantly impact […]
What Is The Difference Between Soreness and Pain?
“Is this pain, or am I just sore?” Everyone confronts this question at some point in their lives. But what is the real difference between these sensations? Isn’t soreness just a type of pain? In this article, we’ll explore the difference between soreness and pain to shed some light on what you can do to […]
How to Fix Flared Ribs: Physical Therapy Exercises and Posture Tips
Posture affects many aspects of your life, from balance and movement to long-term health and well-being. If you have been told that you have flared ribs, you may wonder how they impact your posture and what you can do to fix them. Flared ribs are not always a problem, but they can sometimes indicate shallow […]
Creaky Shoulders? What To Do For Shoulder Crepitus
Have you noticed your shoulders crackling, popping, or feeling stiff? This phenomenon, known as shoulder crepitus, can be both bothersome and disruptive to your shoulder’s comfort and mobility. Understanding the causes of these sensations and learning how to manage them effectively can significantly improve your shoulder health. In this article, we’ll explore the causes, symptoms, […]
Understanding Shingles Stages: Key Symptoms, Progression, and Treatment Options
Shingles can be an incredibly painful and disruptive condition, especially for those who aren’t prepared for its onset. Understanding the shingles stages, recognizing the early signs, and knowing the best treatment options can significantly impact your recovery and quality of life. Being informed about shingles is crucial whether you’re dealing with the initial tingling pain, […]
Fire Hydrant Exercises: The Ultimate Guide
If you need easily accessible and practical hip exercises, “fire hydrant” exercises may be a great option. Although simple, many older adults consider this exercise a big help in their wellness routine. Of course, understanding why these exercises are helpful and knowing how to use them properly is essential for getting the results you want. […]
How to Deal with Knee Bursitis: Exercises, Treatments & Tips
Do you feel pain or stiffness in your knee when you walk, kneel, or bend? Or perhaps you’ve noticed persistent swelling around your kneecap? If so, you might have knee bursitis, which affects many active adults. Knee bursitis is an inflammatory condition of the knee that can interfere with your daily activities and affect your […]
How To Do a Balance Test at Home (And When to Seek Help)
Maintaining good balance is crucial for staying safe and independent, but unsteadiness can creep in over time, making falls more likely. Knowing how to do a balance test at home can help you identify any issues early and take action to improve your stability. In this article, we’ll guide you through simple, effective balance tests […]
The Best Knee Exercises for Seniors
Knee pain can be a major obstacle to enjoying everyday activities, especially for seniors. But did you know simple knee exercises for seniors can help prevent joint pain and improve balance? Whether dealing with arthritis, past injuries, or just the natural wear and tear of aging, maintaining strong and flexible knees is essential for a […]
What is Physical Therapy?
Physical therapy (or physiotherapy) is a division of health care known as rehabilitation medicine focused on treating and preventing physical injuries, disabilities, and other impairments.
Jaw Exercises to Relieve TMJ Pain
Chronic pain in the jaw is widespread, especially among people over sixty-five. TMJ pain can also accompany many conditions, making it challenging to figure out the exact cause without proper screening. Fortunately there are a handful of reliable jaw exercises to relieve TMJ pain. Performing jaw exercises can significantly impact pain for many types of […]
How To Do the Dead Bug Exercise
The dead bug exercise may have a funny name, but it is a simple and effective exercise that can help you strengthen your core muscles and regain stability. Many older adults experience low back pain, sciatica, and other conditions related to weak abdominal muscles that can challenge their ability to do simple daily activities. If […]
Crackling Knees? Here’s Knee Crepitus Exercises That Help
If you’ve ever wondered about the crackling sounds your knees make when you bend or extend them, you might be experiencing a common occurrence known as knee crepitus. This article will unravel the mystery behind these curious noises and share some practical exercises for pain relief and joint mobility. Understanding Knee Crepitus Your knee joint […]
Review: The U-Step Neuro Walker
I have to admit, I’ve been excited about reviewing this walker for a while now. The U-Step Neuro walker has truly transformed the lives of many of my patients at my clinic. It starts with the primary purpose of any walker–to help move around–and then addresses all the unique challenges Parkinson’s and neuro patients can […]
Posture and Balance: Weight Shifting
Dive into this Posture and Balance class with Francesca as she guides you through a dynamic series of exercises. This class features: Francesca emphasizes the importance of body awareness and posture, explaining how each movement impacts your body. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced practitioner, this class offers valuable insights and exercises to help […]
When to Start Exercising After COVID: Expert Tips and Advice
Recovering from COVID-19 presents unique challenges, but understanding when to start exercising after COVID is crucial for a smooth and effective recovery. Regular physical activity can be pivotal in your overall health journey, offering benefits beyond mere fitness. Exercise helps rebuild muscle mass, improves strength, combats fatigue, boosts energy, and enhances cardiovascular efficiency. Activities like […]
Simple Hand Stretches and Exercises for Pain Relief
If you are experiencing pain in your hands while doing simple tasks like holding a cup or turning a doorknob, know you are not alone. Hand and wrist pain is a common issue that can affect people of all ages, but it becomes more prevalent as we age. The good news is that simple exercises […]
Choosing the Right Shoe Orthotics
Low back, knee, and foot pain are common concerns for many older adults. As we age, finding strategies to help limit and prevent musculoskeletal pain becomes even more important. One popular solution for these problems is using arch supports or shoe inserts, also known as orthotics. Should older adults use arch supports and shoe inserts? If […]
Guillain-Barré Syndrome: A Guide to Symptoms, Diagnosis & Physical Therapy
Understanding Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) provides valuable insights into this rare and serious condition where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks its own nerves. In this article, we’ll explore the causes and symptoms of GBS, which often follow infections or other triggers like surgery or, in rare cases, vaccinations. We’ll discuss how neurologists diagnose GBS through […]
Understanding Heel Pain in Seniors: Causes, Treatments, and Prevention
Maintaining mobility and independence is one of our most important well-being priorities as we age. However, heel pain, a common and debilitating condition for many seniors, can hinder our ability to stay active and engaged in daily activities. This article will explore heel pain, its common (and some less common) causes, the importance of accurate […]
Does Housework Count as Exercise?
With rates of preventable disease continuing to climb, exercising for a healthy body has never been more important. Fortunately, you don’t have to have a gym membership to burn calories. You don’t need an exercise physiologist to tell you that breaking a sweat indicates your body is working hard. Some household chores can be comparable […]
How Does Dry Needling Work?
You may have heard the term dry needling or read about how it can reduce pain. But what exactly is dry needling, and how does it work? In this article, we’ll explore this method, the difference between dry needling and acupuncture, the pros and cons of the treatment, and whether dry needling therapies might be […]
Essential Exercises for Spinal Stenosis to Enhance Spinal Health
If your doctor has recommended exercises for spinal stenosis, you’re on the path to regaining mobility and reducing discomfort. Spinal stenosis can make daily activities challenging, but with the right exercises, significant relief is within reach. This article will introduce you to effective exercises for spinal stenosis, such as the Counter Stretch and Child’s Pose […]
Golfer’s Wrist Pain and Exercises That Help
Wrist pain can be a frustrating problem for various athletes, but there’s a reason “golfer’s wrist” is named for the sport. This article will explore what causes golfer’s wrist, treatment options, and how to manage wrist pain with exercise so you can keep playing golf. What is Golfer’s Wrist? The term golfer’s wrist describes pain due to tendinitis, […]
Exercises For Tech Neck
Stress from reading the news online isn’t the only downside to computer use: our increased reliance on technology may also be harming our posture and our bodies. Sitting with your head drooping while looking at your phone or tablet causes stress, leading to unnecessary neck and shoulder pain. Fortunately, you can relieve pain with commonsense […]
Sciatica Exercises for Seniors: A Guide to Relieve Discomfort and Improve Mobility
Sciatica exercises for seniors can help you find comfort when pain becomes a problem. Sciatica, often identified by its signature symptom of one-sided, radiating leg pain, can pose significant daily problems for active adults. However, once you’ve identified sciatica as the cause behind your pain and ruled out any serious underlying conditions, there are effective […]
Swayback Posture: Causes, Risks, and Treatment
Do you feel an increased pressure in your lower back or a sensation of your upper body leaning backward? Do you notice your stomach protruding or your pelvis tilting forward? If so, you may have what’s known as a “swayback” posture, also called hyperlordosis. This condition results in a pronounced arch in the lower back […]
Exercises Provide Home Remedies for Foot Neuropathy
Foot neuropathy is a common problem for seniors, and knowing how to manage this condition can be challenging. While various factors can cause this problem and can significantly impact your daily activities and quality of life, there are exercises you can use to help improve the health of your feet. Let’s explore some causes of […]
A Guide to Walking Poles for Seniors
Walking is undoubtedly one of the best forms of exercise for seniors. It can help you stay fit, prevent disease, and improve your mental well-being. However, walking can pose some challenges for older adults, such as joint pain, fatigue, and increased fall risk. Many seniors are turning to walking poles to minimize these downsides and […]
How To Tell If You Are Out of Shape & What You Can Do About It
Have you been feeling more tired lately? Do you run out of breath while walking up the stairs or doing other simple tasks? After the COVID-19 quarantine, many people have found that they are less in shape than they used to be. In the last year, I have had an influx of patients reporting that […]
The 5 Best Foot Exercises For Seniors
As you age, taking good care of your feet is essential. Taking preventive steps and incorporating simple exercises into your daily routine will provide lasting benefits and help maintain mobility as you grow older. This article will introduce you to our favorite foot exercises for seniors to keep you moving and pain-free. From strengthening muscles […]
The Best Hip Exercises for Seniors
If you suffer from hip pain, you are not alone. One study found that roughly fourteen percent of people over sixty reported significant hip pain on most days, while more than eighteen percent of inactive seniors reported severe hip pain in the previous month. Hip pain can make bending, walking, putting on shoes, and other […]
Reactive Balance Training: A Guide to Strengthening Your Balance Reactions
Balance presents one of the biggest challenges in the daily lives of many seniors today. Various life circumstances and conditions can influence balance, equilibrium, and fall risk as we age. Techniques like Reactive Balance Training can help prevent predictable falls and train your body and brain for the daily challenges that may not be so easy to […]
The Best Exercise Warmup for Seniors
Staying active is vital at any age, but as we get older, how we prepare for physical activity becomes increasingly important. An exercise warmup for seniors can make a huge difference in staying strong, healthy, and injury-free. Warm-ups elevate the core body temperature and prepare the heart, muscles, and joints for the demands of physical […]
Understanding Sleep Disturbances During Menopause
Sleep-related issues are a frustrating problem for many women going through menopause. Hormonal changes, especially the drop in estrogen and progesterone, can wreak havoc on your sleep patterns. These changes can lead to hot flashes, night sweats, and mood swings, all of which make it harder to get a good night’s rest. Understanding these changes […]
How Gaming in Physical Therapy Can Improve Rehabilitation
Video games have come a long way from their arcade origins. Today, they’re a dynamic tool in healthcare, especially when it comes to gaming in physical therapy and other rehabilitation methods. Motion-sensing and movement-tracking technology, like the Nintendo Wii and Microsoft’s Kinect, has paved the way for what is commonly referred to as “exergames”—a blend […]
Everything You Need to Know About Backward Disequilibrium
Have you ever felt like you were leaning backward and couldn’t stand up straight? Backward disequilibrium (BD) is a condition that creates constant challenges, increasing the risk of falls and injuries for many older adults. This condition affects your balance and can be caused by aging, neurological issues, or a combination of these things. By […]
The Senior’s Guide on How to Use Uber and Other Rideshare Services
Getting older doesn’t have to mean losing our independence. In fact, it becomes increasingly important to maintain our independence as we age to continue achieving a high quality of life, involvement in social activities, and access to medical care. One key aspect of independence and community engagement is having access to reliable transportation. In today’s […]
Neck & Back Pain: Driving Without Pain
If you’ve ever had neck and back pain, you know that it can make simple activities like driving your car uncomfortable. For many older adults, finding strategies to improve comfort during driving can make a big difference in everyday life. By making the proper car seat adjustments and creating an action plan, you can enjoy […]
Heel Raises and Bicep Curls from Your Chair
Looking to improve your strength and fitness from the comfort of your own home? Join Chair Strength, a fantastic fitness class led by the delightful instructor, Rita Goldstein. In this class, you’ll have the opportunity to practice a variety of exercises, including heel raises and bicep curls from a seated position. Read on to learn more about the benefits of these exercises and why they are a great addition to your fitness routine.
Arm and Leg Strength with Chair Exercises
CLASS TYPE Chair Strength EQUIPMENT USED Chair, Hand Weights (optional) LENGTH OF CLASS 30 Minutes FITNESS LEVEL Foundational INSTRUCTOR Rita Goldstein The Power of Chair Exercises for Arm and Leg Strength Chair exercises, as Rita explains, are a convenient and effective way to build muscle strength in your arms and legs. The workouts are designed […]
Hip Openers and Ankle Workouts with Chair Strength
Chair Strength is a thoughtfully designed fitness class that caters to those who seek to engage in physical activity, but require a gentler approach. This unique program, orchestrated by Rita Goldstein, seamlessly merges the benefits of traditional exercises with the comfort and stability of a chair.
The beauty of this program lies in its ability to adapt to a wide range of physical abilities. Whether you’re a seasoned gym-goer in search of a change in routine, or an older adult looking to maintain mobility and strength, Chair Strength offers an inviting environment to pursue your fitness goals.
REM Sleep Disorder And Parkinson’s Disease: What You Need to Know
Imagine having a frightening dream, only to wake up and find you’ve actually jumped out of bed. This is a reality for many individuals living with REM Sleep Behavior Disorder (RBD), a condition where the body acts out vivid dreams during sleep. Though it may not be obvious, there is an interesting link between REM […]
Building Bone Density Naturally With Weight-Bearing Exercises
As we age, our bodies demand more care and attention, especially when it comes to bone health. Weight-bearing exercises are pivotal for building bone density naturally and improving overall health and wellness. Whether it’s a simple walk around the neighborhood or engaging in squats and lunges at home, these exercises offer many benefits. They aid […]
MASH Treatment for Low Back and Hip Pain
Low back and hip pain are often more than passing discomfort; they can lead to significant health issues that impact independence and quality of life, especially for older adults. Understanding the relationship between the hip and lower back is crucial for addressing the root causes of pain and finding effective treatment solutions. The MASH treatment […]
What Are the Benefits of Lumbar Traction? A Physical Therapist Explains
Lumbar traction, a practice with roots in ancient civilizations, has evolved into a sophisticated technique for managing lower back pain. By applying controlled forces to the spine, lumbar traction alleviates pressure on spinal discs and nerves, relieving various spinal conditions. Understanding the types of traction, its effects, and the indications and contraindications is essential for […]
Working With Wide Feet: Solutions That Help
Understanding the causes and solutions for wide feet is essential for anyone experiencing discomfort or difficulties finding suitable footwear. Wide feet can result from genetics, medical conditions, or lifestyle factors like aging and weight gain. If not addressed properly, these factors can lead to pain, discomfort, and complications. This article delves into the primary causes […]
A Guide to Rollator Walker Styles & Function
If you struggle with balance, choosing the right mobility aid is crucial for maintaining independence and enhancing quality of life. The Rollator walker stands out among the various options available for its unique blend of stability, convenience, and flexibility. Whether you need extra support while walking, a comfortable place to rest during your strolls, or […]
Surviving the Sizzle: A Senior’s Guide to Beating the Heat
Dealing with the heat can be particularly challenging for older adults, whose bodies struggle more with temperature regulation and hydration. As temperatures rise, it’s essential to understand the unique risks and take proactive measures to stay safe and comfortable. From choosing the proper clothing to staying hydrated and recognizing the signs of heat-related illnesses, there […]
Aging In Place: A Guide to Independence at Home
Aging in place is a thoughtful decision that prioritizes living in a familiar and meaningful environment, which provides psychological benefits and a sense of independence. Home comfort can significantly enhance the quality of life of adults with chronic health conditions. However, planning for this lifestyle involves careful consideration of safety and support needs. This article […]
Plastics in the Body: Understanding the Risks and How to Reduce Exposure
The convenience of plastic comes at a cost, especially in the form of microplastics—tiny fragments that infiltrate our food, air, and water. These plastics in the body pose significant health risks. They absorb environmental toxins and enter the food chain, leading to inflammation, oxidative stress, and chronic conditions like cardiovascular diseases and cancer. Older adults […]
Seated to Standing Movement
Are you struggling with maintaining good posture and balance as you age? If so, you’re not alone. Many older adults face challenges in this area, which can lead to a variety of health issues. However, there is a simple yet effective solution that can help improve your posture and balance: practicing how to move from a seated to a standing position. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the importance of this movement and how it can benefit your overall health and well-being.
The Best Shoulder Mobility Exercises
Maintaining shoulder mobility is essential for everyday activities and overall quality of life, especially as we age. This article explores the significant benefits of shoulder mobility exercises, which include reducing pain and inflammation, preventing injuries, improving posture, and enhancing performance in physical activities. We’ll focus on various exercise types—dynamic stretches, static stretches, resistance exercises, and […]
The Power of Your Glutes: All About Hip Extension
Welcome to our exploration of hip extension—an essential exercise for adults of any age. In a society that is becoming more sedentary by the year, hip extension exercises are great for counteracting some of the impacts of sitting in a chair or on the couch all day. Hip extension exercises target the glutes, the muscles […]
Our Eight Favorite Exercises For Frozen Shoulder
JUMP TO EXERCISES If you’ve been experiencing stiffness and pain in your shoulder, you might be dealing with a condition known as frozen shoulder. This condition (also known as adhesive capsulitis in the medical community) isn’t as icy as it sounds. Still, it can be quite a pain, literally. It develops slowly through three stages: […]
How to Deal With A Crick in the Neck
Are you dealing with a crick in the neck? This is a common problem for many people, but why does it happen in the first place? Understanding the causes and managing this discomfort can significantly relieve this common complaint. It’s sometimes difficult to describe this feeling besides calling it a tweak, hitch, catch, or even […]
Stretching vs Strengthening for Pain Management
Managing pain as an older adult is more complex than in your youth. As you age, it’s easier to get injured, and your body doesn’t recover as quickly as it used to. With so much conflicting information and many treatments available, the path to recovery isn’t always straightforward. When I go over treatment plans with […]
What Is The SAID Principle And How Can It Help Me?
The SAID principle is considered a cornerstone of modern physical therapy. But what exactly is the SAID principle? Originally devised for athletic training, this principle has far-reaching benefits for everyone, especially as we age. It teaches us that our bodies specifically adapt to the activities we regularly perform, from rigorous exercise routines to simple daily […]
The Best Knee Osteoarthritis Exercises
Osteoarthritis of the knee affects about 37% of people over sixty in the United States. Joint pain in the knee can make everyday tasks harder, limiting physical function and increasing your risk for other problems. However, there are many simple knee osteoarthritis exercises to manage your symptoms and reduce pain to maintain your lifestyle. This […]
Using Kinesio Tape for Pain Relief and Injury Prevention
Whether swimmers, basketball players, or golfers, it’s common to see famous athletes with large strips of colorful athletic tape on various areas of their bodies. You may also wonder what this strange technique does and how it benefits them—or even how it might benefit you. Physical therapists often apply elastic therapeutic tape to aid an athlete’s […]
Exercises for Hip Bursitis
If you’ve ever experienced hip pain, you know that it can be agitating and limit your daily activities. One of the more common varieties of hip pain is hip bursitis (or trochanteric bursitis). In this article, we’ll explain what hip bursitis is and explore some options for which exercises for hip bursitis will make you […]
The Importance of Cognitive Health for Overall Well-being
Cognitive health is key to a well-balanced life for any older adult. While many often feel that they can only influence their physical health, there are several ways that older adults can support and maintain their cognitive health in daily life. Keep reading to learn more about the value of cognitive health for seniors, how […]
What You Need to Know About Neck Pain: Causes, Symptoms, and Solutions
Neck pain is something many of us will deal with, especially as we get older. It’s more than just a stiff neck now and then; it’s a real problem for about 30% of us each year. In this article, we will closely examine the neck, learn why it can begin to hurt, and share some […]
Using Hiking Poles in PWR Moves Class for Parkinson’s Disease
PWR Moves is a fitness class designed specifically for those with Parkinson’s disease. In this video, Dr. Kathy Doubleday shares how to incorporate hiking poles into your workout for a better sense of stability and effectiveness.
The Most Helpful Parkinson’s Disease Assistive Tools
Navigating life with Parkinson’s Disease (PD) presents a unique set of challenges, from managing motor symptoms like tremors and rigidity to coping with cognitive and emotional changes. Fortunately, Parkinson’s Disease assistive tools offer advantages, providing simple solutions to common problems for those affected by PD. This article explores the many benefits of these tools, ranging […]
A Guide to Choosing the Right Knee Brace
Choosing the right knee brace can be crucial if you’re experiencing knee pain, planning to engage in sports, or recovering from surgery. This article will guide you through the three primary types of knee braces: prophylactic, best for high-impact activities; functional, tailored for specific knee issues like arthritis; and rehabilitative, ideal for post-surgical recovery and […]
Types of Hernias: A Comprehensive Guide
This article explores the various types of hernias, a common medical condition where organs or tissues push through weakened muscle walls. We’ll cover the most prevalent forms, including inguinal, femoral, hiatal, incisional, and epigastric hernias, each presenting unique symptoms and complications. Understanding these can aid in early detection, which is crucial for effective management. We […]
Disk Herniation Printable Exercises [PDF]
One of the most common health concerns among older adults is disk herniation, a condition that can cause significant discomfort and impact your mobility. To help you understand this condition better, we have prepared a comprehensive printable fact sheet on disk herniation. Our fact sheet covers everything you need to know about disk herniation including […]
Printable Back Strain Exercises [PDF]
As we age, our bodies naturally become more susceptible to various aches and pains, one of the most common being back strain. This discomfort can significantly impact our daily lives, making even the simplest tasks challenging. Understanding the causes, treatments, and prevention techniques for back strain can greatly improve the quality of life for older […]
Printable Lumbar Arthritis Exercises [PDF]
As we age, our bodies are subject to various ailments and conditions, one of which is lumbar arthritis. This is a condition characterized by the degeneration of the joints in the lower back, leading to chronic pain and discomfort. To help you understand and manage this condition better, we’ve created a comprehensive, easy-to-understand printable fact […]
Printable Spinal Stenosis Exercises [PDF]
Navigating the complexities of spinal stenosis can be daunting, especially for older adults who are most commonly affected by this condition. That’s why we’ve created a comprehensive, easy-to-understand printable fact sheet dedicated to providing you with essential information about spinal stenosis. This resource is designed to help you understand the causes, symptoms, and potential treatment […]
Printable Degenerative Disk Disease Exercises [PDF]
As we age, our bodies inevitably face a range of changes and potential health issues. One such condition that can affect older adults is degenerative disk disease. This is not a disease per se, but a condition in which natural, age-related wear-and-tear on a spinal disc causes pain, instability, and other symptoms. Understanding this condition […]
