Tennis Elbow Printable Exercises [PDF]
This resource not only delves into the root causes and potential treatment options for tennis elbow but also offers crucial tips on how to prevent the condition. Furthermore, it includes a selection of physical therapist-approved exercises designed to strengthen the arm, reduce pain, and promote healing. Each exercise is accompanied by step-by-step instructions, making it […]
Rotator Cuff Printable Exercises [PDF]
As we age, our bodies inevitably experience wear and tear, and one common area of discomfort for older adults is the rotator cuff. A complex network of muscles and tendons that provide stability and mobility to the shoulder, the rotator cuff is susceptible to injury and degeneration, resulting in pain and limited movement. To help […]
Achilles Tendonitis Printable Exercises [PDF]
Achilles tendonitis is a common condition that causes pain along the back of the leg, near the heel. It occurs when the Achilles tendon, the band of tissue that connects calf muscles at the back of the lower leg to your heel bone, is overloaded or overstressed, leading to inflammation, pain, and potential tissue damage. […]
Low Back Strain Printable Exercises [PDF]
If you have ever felt pain or stiffness in your lower back, you might have experienced a lumbar back strain. This is a common injury that affects the muscles, tendons, ligaments, and joints that support your spine. It can happen when you lift something heavy, twist your back, or overuse your back muscles. Lumbar back […]
Frozen Shoulder Printable Exercises [PDF]
If you have frozen shoulder, you know how painful and frustrating it can be. Frozen shoulder, or adhesive capsulitis, is a condition that makes your shoulder joint stiff and hard to move. It can affect one or both of your shoulders and last for months or even years. Sometimes, frozen shoulder happens after an injury […]
Knee Osteoarthritis Printable Exercises [PDF]
Knee osteoarthritis is a common joint condition that causes pain and stiffness, often impacting an individual’s mobility and daily life. However, it’s important to remember that with the right care, treatment, and lifestyle changes, one can effectively manage this condition and lead an active life. The printable “Knee Osteoarthritis” fact sheet is a comprehensive resource […]
Runner’s Knee Printable Exercises [PDF]
Patellofemoral Syndrome, also known as “Runner’s Knee” is an uncomfortable condition affecting people of all ages. This discomfort around the kneecap can become a significant hindrance, especially for those who enjoy running or walking as part of their daily exercise routine. This fact sheet delves into the causes of runner’s knee–which can range from muscle […]
Bone Spur Printable Exercises [PDF]
As we age, our bodies undergo a myriad of changes, one of which can be the development of bone spurs. Bone spurs, also known as osteophytes, are bony projections that often form where bones meet each other – in your joints. This printable fact sheet has been specially crafted for older adults to provide comprehensive […]
Spinal Spondylolysis Printable Exercises [PDF]
Spinal Spondylosis is a relatively common condition, often found in older adults, characterized by a stress fracture or weakness in a part of the vertebrae. To help you understand this condition better, we have created a comprehensive printable fact sheet that will provide you with in-depth information about Spinal Spondylolysis, its causes, treatment options, and […]
Plantar Fasciitis Printable Exercises [PDF]
Plantar fasciitis is a common and painful condition that affects the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that connects your heel to your toes and supports your foot arch. It can cause inflammation and degeneration of the plantar fascia, leading to heel pain that may interfere with your daily activities and quality of life. […]
Osteoporosis Printable Fact Sheet [PDF]
Osteoporosis is a condition that affects the health and strength of the bones, making them more likely to break. It is more common in women, especially after menopause, but it can also affect men and younger people. Osteoporosis is a serious health challenge that can affect the quality of life and well-being. According to the […]
What is the Graston Technique?
The Graston® Technique, a form of Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM), has been gaining attention due to its potential to enhance mobility and alleviate pain. In this article, we’ll explore this innovative approach and discuss how each can help improve muscle and joint function. We’ll also examine how IASTM compares to traditional treatment methods. Additionally, […]
A Guide to Managing Degenerative Scoliosis
Degenerative scoliosis affects many adults, resulting from age-related changes such as disc degeneration, osteoporosis, and arthritis. This condition manifests with symptoms that include lower back pain, changes in posture, and difficulties in walking. The risk of developing degenerative scoliosis increases with age, lifestyle choices, and previous spinal injuries. Diagnosing this condition requires thorough physical exams […]
Single Leg Exercises for Posture and Balance
Are you looking to improve your balance and stability? Look no further than the practice of single leg balance. In this blog post, we will explore the importance of practicing single leg balance and the health benefits it can provide. Join fitness instructor Cam Prendergast as he guides you through a video fitness class focused on improving your posture and balance.
Strength Class: Antagonist Muscles
Understanding and Managing Hip Flexor Pain
Do you feel a stubborn pain in the front of your hip when you walk, get out of a chair, or stand up? Hip flexor pain is a common condition that can make it difficult for older adults to participate in daily life and be tricky to overcome. Healthy hip flexors are important to your […]
Understanding the Connection Between Hearing and Balance
When we think of balance, we often picture ourselves standing on one foot or walking in a straight line. But did you know that our balance is influenced by more than our ability to stand upright? It’s a complex process involving several body parts, including our brain and ears. Yes, you read that right! Our […]
The Hand Neuropathy Exercises Recommended by Physical Therapists
Do your hands often tingle with that frustrating “pins and needles” sensation? Are everyday activities such as buttoning a shirt or holding a pen increasingly challenging? You’re not alone. Hand neuropathy can affect anyone; as we age, it can become an even more common concern. But you don’t have to let hand neuropathy hold you […]
Rebounder Exercises: Bounce Your Way to Better FitnessÂ
Ever considered a rebounder or exercise trampoline to enhance your fitness regimen? If so, you’re probably curious about how a rebounder trampoline can boost your health. Rebounding is not just a fun way to work out— rebound exercises also have numerous health benefits. From basic bouncing to complex maneuvers like jumping jacks, twists, and kicks, […]
Review: Urban Poling Activator® Poles
Let’s face it: there are a lot of walking pole choices out there. Some are great for quick adjustments on the trail, while others fold up to fit in a backpack. There are ones with gadgets like built-in springs and compasses. Quite simply, different poles are good for different things. Activator® poles set themselves apart […]
“Help! I Woke Up With Neck Pain And Can’t Turn My Head!”
There’s nothing quite like a good night’s sleep. But what happens when you wake up, ready to seize the day, only to be met with a sharp, restricting pain in your neck? Morning neck pain can be a jarring way to start the day, hindering your ability to perform routine tasks, including turning your head […]
Knee Pain When Going Up Stairs: Causes, Treatments & Prevention Tips
Is your regular journey up a flight of stairs starting to feel like a mountain trek due to knee pain? Many older adults experience knee pain when climbing stairs, but there are ways to treat this common problem. Knee pain isn’t a mandatory part of aging and is also not something you should ignore. Having […]
“How Hard Should I Exercise?” Your Guide to Exercise Intensity
If you’re new to exercise or working out for the first time in a long time, you’re probably curious about how hard you should exercise. As we age, maintaining an active lifestyle becomes increasingly crucial to our overall health and well-being. Research indicates regular physical activity can help manage chronic conditions, improve mobility, and enhance […]
Understanding Headache Treatment: A Guide for Older Adults
Headaches, including migraines, tension, and cluster headaches, are a significant health issue globally, affecting nearly half of the adult population, as noted by the World Health Organization. These conditions span all ages, races, and socioeconomic groups, often presenting a challenge in identifying their root causes. This article will explore the various types of headaches, emphasizing […]
Sex After 60: Your Guide to Intimate Self-Care
Sex after 60 can present unique challenges due to various physiological and psychological factors. One prominent aspect is the natural aging process, which often leads to changes in hormonal levels, diminished muscle tone, and decreased blood flow, impacting sexual response. Moreover, older individuals may encounter health issues such as arthritis or cardiovascular conditions that can […]
Knee Pain When Squatting: Causes, Prevention, and Treatment
Knee pain when squatting can be a frustrating barrier to maintaining an active lifestyle. If you’re living with knee pain that’s limiting your ability to bend and squat, don’t throw in the towel just yet! This type of pain can usually be treated with effective pain management, changes to certain activities, corrections to your squat […]
Choosing the Best Compression Socks
Has your doctor recently recommended compression socks to help remedy circulation problems? If so, you’re not alone. Poor circulation is a common complaint for many older adults, particularly in the legs, often leading to discomfort and health risks. Compression socks are a proven tool to help in this all-too-common scenario. These unique socks aid circulation, […]
How to Deal with Hip Pain While Sleeping
Do you suffer from hip pain that keeps you awake? If hip pain wakes you up at night, you are not alone. As a licensed physical therapist, I can verify that hip pain is a common complaint among older adults. It can affect sleep quality as well as overall health. But what causes hip pain […]
A Guide to Choosing the Best Walking Cane for Seniors
Explore cane types & usage tips to aid recovery, ensure stability, and maintain independence safely during daily activities.
How to Treat Vertigo Naturally with Physical Therapy Exercises
Do you ever feel like the room is spinning even when you’re not moving? Does the spinning sensation last several seconds or even minutes? If you answered yes, you might have vertigo. Vertigo symptoms can cause problems ranging from having trouble getting out of bed or lying down, walking around your house, or even simply turning […]
Beyond Pain Relief: The Benefits of Physical Therapy for Arthritis
Arthritis is a common condition among active older adults, and it often leads to significant discomfort and pain, impacting daily life. But the challenges posed by arthritis don’t have to be a constantly worsening concern. Physical therapy offers hope, providing effective pain management and improved mobility for many arthritis patients. This comprehensive guide delves into […]
Exploring the Benefits of Physical Therapy for Dementia Patients
Dementia poses unique challenges for those diagnosed and their loved ones, but hope exists beyond a dementia diagnosis. Though memory lapses and behavioral changes can be challenging at any level, there are actions you can take to combat some of the most difficult symptoms of this all-too-common disease. Physical therapy can help dementia patients improve […]
Spinal Decompression at Home: A Guide for Back Pain Prevention
Back pain can be frustrating, affecting our daily activities and overall quality of life. Spinal decompression at home could offer significant relief without visiting a hospital. So, what is spinal decompression exactly, and how can it be done in the comfort of your home? Decompression offers several advantages for older adults with chronic back pain […]
A Guide to Reading Blood Pressure
Navigating the landscape of health and wellness as we age can feel like a complex puzzle. Understanding and managing our blood pressure is among the most critical pieces of this puzzle. But what exactly is blood pressure, and why is it so crucial to our health? As a physical therapist who works with older adults […]
Parkinson’s Disease Self-Care: How to Manage Your Symptoms and Improve Your Quality of Life
As we age, it’s natural for our bodies to undergo changes, and sometimes, we may become more susceptible to various health issues. A hallmark example of this is Parkinson’s disease, which significantly affects the lives of millions every day. However, it’s important to remember that we are not helpless against Parkinson’s disease. By adopting the […]
Achy Knees: The Facts About Knee Osteoarthritis
Knee osteoarthritis, the most prevalent joint disease globally, impacts over 240 million people. This condition can affect any joint, but it’s most commonly found in the knees, hips, hands, lower back, and neck. In the case of knee osteoarthritis, the cartilage wears down and becomes rough. As a result, the protective space and tissues within […]
Exploring Stem Cell Treatment for Arthritis: A New Option for Joint Health
There is no cure for arthritis, but there are ways to manage the condition and reduce its impact. You may have heard of different options, such as medications, supplements, physical therapy, and surgery, but you need help determining what’s right for you. But what if another option could help you heal your joints from within, […]
Gout In Knee: Common Sense Approaches for Multi-Joint Health
Have you ever wondered how gout affects different body parts? Are you curious about what you can do to address the challenges of a gout diagnosis? Contrary to popular belief, gout isn’t only a disease of the feet; it can also affect the hands, knees, and shoulders, among other areas. According to the National Institute […]
Navigating Toenail Care: Essential Tips for Older Adults
As we age, taking care of our toenails becomes more important than ever, but it can also be more difficult for various reasons. Sometimes, toenail care might slip when dealing with other health issues. Toenail care is more than just looking good — it’s key for staying healthy and comfortable in our senior years. Ignoring […]
A Senior’s Guide to Peroneal Tendonitis
Experiencing discomfort along the outer side of your lower leg? This might be a sign of peroneal tendonitis. While not critical, it can interfere with daily activities, especially for older adults. In this article, we will explain what peroneal tendonitis is, how it is diagnosed and treated, and how to prevent it from happening through […]
How to Improve Circulation in the Legs & Feet
As a physical therapist, I deeply understand the significance of maintaining good circulation, especially for my older patients. This guide focuses on how to improve circulation in the legs and feet, an area crucial for overall health and mobility in seniors. In this article, we’ll explore the fundamentals of circulatory health, provide practical exercises, and […]
Rotator Cuff Surgery Recovery: What You Need to Know
Are you or a loved one facing the prospect of rotator cuff surgery? If so, you may have questions about the procedure and the rotator cuff surgery recovery process. From managing post-operative pain and inflammation to reaping the benefits of a tailored physical therapy program, this article will guide you through what to expect after […]
COPD Rehabilitation & Treatment Strategies
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a common lung condition that affects millions of older adults worldwide. While it can be a challenging condition to live with, treatment is widely available for their COPD, and they can still lead a fulfilling life. But what does that treatment look like? With the proper care and support, […]
“Is Arthritis Hereditary?” Facts and Myths about Arthritis
Arthritis is one of the most common conditions older adults face worldwide. While there is a lot now known about arthritis, there are also still some big unknowns. Common myths and misconceptions can confuse those looking for good information. As a physical therapist who has lots of experience helping older adults better manage their arthritis, […]
A Guide to Incorporating Exercise into Your Daily Life
As a trainer and health coach, I’ve witnessed firsthand the transformative power of regular exercise. It’s a key player in maintaining a healthy lifestyle, helping to keep your weight in check and warding off a host of diseases, such as heart disease, diabetes, and even cancer. Beyond physical health, incorporating exercise into daily life is […]
“How Long Does Gout Last?” and Other Important Things to Know About It
Have you been diagnosed with gout? Gout attacks, while intensely painful, fortunately, have a somewhat predictable duration and frequency, although these can vary significantly from person to person. Gout is more than a mere inconvenience characterized by sharp pain, swelling, and general discomfort. This all-too-common but often misunderstood condition can significantly impact our joints as […]
Mobility vs. Stretching: How They Are Different & Why It Matters
Mobility vs. stretching…It’s a common misconception that mobility and stretching are the same, and the terms are often used interchangeably. What one person calls mobility training, another might call active stretching. Let’s outline the difference between mobility and stretching, why they’re essential, and how to use each to reach your fitness goals at any age. […]
Arthroscopic Knee Surgery Recovery: Physical Therapist Advice
If your knee pain impacts your daily life and doesn’t improve with treatment, your doctor may recommend arthroscopic knee surgery. Arthroscopic knee surgery is a popular option today that can relieve pain, improve function, and help you return to your favorite activities. But how long does it take to recover from arthroscopic knee surgery? And […]
What Causes Swelling in the Feet & Ankles (And How to Fix It)
Have you ever tried putting on your shoes and felt they were tighter than usual or didn’t fit anymore? Or have you noticed a strong indentation in your skin left behind from your socks when taking them off at the end of the day? Swollen legs, ankles, and feet can be anxiety-provoking when you don’t […]
A Guide to Living a Healthy Lifestyle for Seniors
As the years pass, it becomes increasingly crucial for you to prioritize your health and well-being. The choices you make daily can have a significant impact on your physical and mental health in your later years. Fortunately, there are many simple and practical habits that you can adopt to maintain your health and vitality. This […]
The Essential Guide to Preventing Falling in the Bathroom: Safety Tips & Strategies
Approximately 235,000 people annually encounter bathroom-related injuries, with about 14% resulting in hospitalization. These alarming statistics highlight the importance of fall prevention, especially as we age and face challenges with balance and coordination. This article delves into the common causes of bathroom falls, such as slippery floors and coordination problems, and offers practical solutions for […]
Neck Pain From Upper Cross Syndrome: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment
Upper Cross Syndrome (UCS) is a common yet often misunderstood condition that arises from poor postural habits. Characterized by a forward head posture and rounded shoulders, UCS can lead to chronic neck pain, reduced mobility, and even functional disability. This comprehensive guide delves into the causes, symptoms, and effective treatment strategies for Upper Cross Syndrome. […]
Understanding Bone Density Tests for Women: When and Why to Get Screened
Bone density is a simple way of measuring how strong our bones are. This becomes increasingly important as we age, particularly for women. Bone density is measured by the amount of calcium and other minerals in our bones. When these minerals are in short supply, conditions like osteopenia and osteoporosis can develop, leading to bones […]
Exercise and Blood Pressure Management: A Comprehensive Guide for Active Adults
Maintaining healthy blood pressure is crucial to our well-being, especially as we age. High blood pressure—or hypertension—is a common concern for many active adults. Despite being a common issue, it’s important not to underestimate its dangers. Untreated high blood pressure can lead to serious health complications, including heart disease, stroke, and kidney problems. The good […]
Understanding Neuropathy Treatment: Symptoms, Causes & Strategies
Neuropathy, a condition caused by damaged nerves, often presents perplexing symptoms that can disrupt daily life. Its origins are varied, stemming from a number of conditions or injuries. Understanding the underlying cause is crucial to seeking appropriate treatment, which may range from medication and lifestyle adjustments to specific therapies. In this article, we delve into […]
Knee Replacement Recovery: A Guide for Older Adults
Does knee pain or stiffness seriously limit your daily activities? If so, you may be considering knee replacement surgery. Knee replacement surgery, also known as total knee arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure that replaces the damaged parts of your knee joint with artificial implants. In most cases, knee replacement relieves pain, improves mobility, and restores […]
Therapeutic Ultrasound for Arthritis: A Guide for Active Adults
Have you ever wondered if there’s a way to relieve your arthritis pain without taking medications or undergoing surgery? If so, you may be interested in learning about alternative treatment options like therapeutic ultrasound to manage your joint pain. Physical therapists and other health professionals have used ultrasound to treat various musculoskeletal conditions, including arthritis, […]
COVID-19 and Vertigo: Understanding the Connection
Have you ever experienced a sensation where it seems like the room is spinning around you, or you’re moving when you’re stationary? This unsettling feeling is known as vertigo, which is not a disease but a symptom of various conditions that affect your inner ear or brain’s balance system. Vertigo can lead to feelings of […]
Understanding Bladder Spasms and Their Impact on Pelvic Floor Health
Bladder spasms are a common condition that can significantly impact daily life. Spasms are increasingly recognized as a concern in pelvic floor health, especially among older adults who want to maintain mobility and well-being. These involuntary contractions of the bladder, often accompanied by a sudden and intense urge to urinate, can pose challenges that affect […]
Arthroscopic Shoulder Surgery: What You Need to Know
Are you struggling with shoulder pain or stiffness? If so, you may have heard of arthroscopic shoulder surgery as a potential treatment option. But what exactly is arthroscopic shoulder surgery, and how can it help you? Arthroscopic shoulder surgery is a specialized procedure that utilizes a small camera and instruments to address various shoulder problems, […]
Understanding Plantar Fasciitis: A Guide to Relief and Recovery
Have you ever experienced a sharp, stabbing pain in your heel when you take your first steps in the morning? Or perhaps you’ve felt a persistent ache in the arch of your foot that won’t go away. If so, you might be among the millions of active adults who have encountered a common yet often […]
Shoulder Impingement Exercises: How to Relieve Pain & Improve Mobility
What is shoulder impingement? Learn how to get to the bottom of this common condition with simple physical therapy exercises.
How Long Does It Take to Rehydrate?
For active adults, hydration is a critical aspect of health and well-being. But what causes dehydration? How long does it take to rehydrate? What signs should you look for that indicate dehydration? Let’s dig into the science of hydration, strategies to prevent dehydration, and some practical tips to ensure you remain well-hydrated throughout your day. […]
A Guide to Using a TENS Unit for Lower Back Pain Relief
Discover how a TENS unit can relieve lower back pain for seniors: its benefits, how to use it, and best practices for maximum benefit.
Navigating Your Shoulder Replacement Surgery Recovery Time
A walkthrough of the stages, exercises, self-care techniques and expected length of shoulder replacement surgery recovery time for seniors.
When Back Pain Isn’t Just Back Pain
Back pain is a common problem for older adults that can vary widely between individuals, but when is back pain an emergency? In some cases, back pain can be so debilitating that it feels like an emergency, yet many older adults aren’t sure when there is cause for worry. Knowing the difference between normal back […]
How to Manage Arthritis: A Comprehensive Guide to Types, Symptoms, and Treatments
Creaky, stiff, or painful joints are all too familiar signs of aging, and arthritis is often the cause. These common symptoms, alongside other signs of aging, can increase the difficulty of performing your daily activities. Arthritis can result in movement problems and pain. However, it can also be managed with select exercises and proper medical […]
Rheumatoid Arthritis Self-Care for Older Adults
Explore strategies for thriving with rheumatoid arthritis, through weight-management exercise and healthy living habits.
Navigating Spinal Fusion Surgery Recovery
Aging gracefully often comes with its fair share of challenges. Among these are the persistent neck and back aches that no number of massages or over-the-counter painkillers seem to alleviate. For some more serious cases, the proposed solution, often seen as a last resort, is spinal fusion surgery. Spinal fusion surgery is a major procedure […]
Understanding Dupuytren’s Contracture: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment & Prevention
Explore the symptoms, causes, and treatment options for Dupuytren’s Contracture, a common hand condition affecting seniors.
A Guide to E-Stim: Electrical Stimulation Therapy
Explore Electrical Stimulation Therapy, a modern approach to managing pain and improving muscle function—its types, benefits, and risks.
The Best Sitting Positions for Lower Back Pain
Explore causes of back pain in older adults from sitting and discover actionable solutions for comfort in daily scenarios.
How to Improve Posture and Feel Younger With These 3 Exercises
Maintaining good posture is more essential for overall health and well-being than you may realize. Poor posture can lead to pain, discomfort, and limited mobility, especially for older people. As we age, the natural deterioration of muscles, joints, and bones can worsen our posture, leading to back or neck pain or other issues. Thankfully, targeted […]
How Can Hand Therapy Help Me?
Have you ever struggled with discomfort, stiffness, numbness, or a lack of strength in your hands or arms? You’re far from alone. Many seniors live with conditions that impair their hand and upper extremity function, but hand therapy can help. It can be frustrating when your hands don’t perform as you’re used to. These conditions […]
Our Guide to Body Mechanics for Better Balance & Injury Prevention
As we age, balance issues and injuries can seem to occur out of the blue, even while doing familiar or seemingly simple tasks. Fortunately, these sorts of injuries are often preventable with a little extra attention to how we move. Body mechanics can play a major role in helping reduce pain, improving your balance, and […]
The Cognitive Benefits of Exercise for Seniors
The relationship between exercise and brain function is a hot topic these days. Did you know that the kind of exercise you do can not only make you physically stronger but also mentally sharper? When we think about personalizing our exercise routines, we often consider physical benefits like losing weight or building muscle. But we […]
Preventing and Managing Spinal Fractures from OsteoporosisÂ
Osteoporosis can significantly increase the risk of spinal fractures and other complications. Spinal fractures from osteoporosis are more common than you may realize—and not just for seniors. An estimated 700,000 people (equal to about half the population of Hawaii) are diagnosed in the U.S. annually. An osteoporosis diagnosis can be daunting, but even if you’ve […]
A Beginner’s Guide to Urinary Incontinence
Urinary Incontinence is the involuntary loss of urine that can happen at any time. It can affect anyone at any age, but it is more common and severe among older adults. UI can interfere with daily activities, social life, and self-esteem. It can also increase your risk of infections, skin problems, and falls. Urinary incontinence […]
Unlocking Hip Rotation to Enhance Mobility and Prevent InjuriesÂ
Do you ever feel pain or stiffness in your hips when you walk, run, or exercise? Do you have trouble sitting in certain positions, moving your legs in different directions, or performing certain activities? If so, you might have a problem with your hip mobility, specifically your hip rotation. Hip rotation is the ability to […]
Core Exercises for Seniors
How often do you think about your core muscles? If you’re like most seniors, you pay little attention to them until problems like poor posture, pain, or balance issues arise. Thankfully, simple core exercises are a great way to improve your general health and quality of life as you age. Your core muscles are the […]
A Senior’s Guide to Arthritis of the Wrist & Hand
Do you have persistent pain or discomfort in your hands and wrists? Arthritis affects millions worldwide, causing inflammation, pain, swelling, and joint stiffness. Since we use our hands and wrist joints so often, regular wear and tear can make them especially susceptible to arthritis, which can interfere with daily tasks and activities. In this […]
The Best Walking Stretches for Seniors
Walking is one of the simplest and best forms of healthy exercise, especially for older adults. It’s an easy activity that most people can do, and it has been shown to maintain fitness and overall health. However, as with any other form of exercise, it’s essential to know that walking without proper stretching can lead […]
A Senior’s Guide to Pelvic Floor Dysfunction
The pelvic floor is a group of muscles and tissues supporting the pelvis’s organs. This critical structure helps with various daily functions. Unfortunately, it is common for seniors to experience pelvic floor dysfunction, which can lead to a host of problems. It can be affected by many factors, causing problems such as pain, leakage, prolapse, […]
Practicing Reactive Balance with a Physical Therapist
Reactive balance training (RBT) is a type of exercise that helps people prevent falls by improving their ability to respond quickly and effectively to unexpected situations that challenge their balance. In this video, you will see a physical therapist demonstrating some RBT exercises with a patient who has a history of falls. The exercises involve […]
What Causes a Rounded Back?
A rounded back is an understandable concern for many older adults. While many seniors live with kyphosis or forward curvature of the upper spine, it is often a mysterious and poorly understood condition. It can be helpful to understand the basics of kyphosis and its various causes, its symptoms and diagnosis, and the best treatment options […]
How to Boost Your Memory Skills and Stay Sharp as You Age
As you age, your memory can become a much more significant health issue than ever before. Many older adults associate aging with memory, and it’s not always positive. It can be easy to assume that there’s nothing you can do to improve your memory skills as you age or that becoming forgetful is just part […]
How a Vibrating Parkinson’s Glove Could Change Future Treatment
If you have been researching Parkinson’s treatments, you may have encountered the new experimental device called a ‘Parkinson’s Glove’. But what exactly is this treatment that has researchers hopeful for improved health outcomes for Parkinson’s patients? Could a high-tech glove complement, or even improve on current treatment methods like exercise and medication? In this article, […]
How Functional Movement Can Improve Your Health and Well-Being as You Age
As you age, your body undergoes changes. These changes can impact your ability to perform everyday tasks and participate in physical activities. Functional movement and exercise are simple ways to maintain or improve physical function. Functional movement exercises mimic the movements of daily life. They can help older adults maintain their independence for longer and improve […]
Cervical Stenosis Relief: 3 Effective Exercises to Alleviate Neck Pain and Improve Posture
In this video, Dr. Alex Goldenring discusses cervical stenosis. He explains that cervical stenosis occurs when the space between the vertebrae in the neck narrows, causing pressure on the peripheral nerve and leading to symptoms in the upper extremities. Dr. Goldenring introduces three concepts and exercises to help treat this condition.
Drug-Free Alternatives for Back Pain Relief: Why Medication May Not Be the Best Option
Back pain can make your favorite activities and your daily life more difficult. When new back pain or flare-ups arise, most people will do whatever they have to relieve pain and keep their symptoms under control. While medications are commonly prescribed to treat back pain, many older adults are now seeking drug-free alternatives for either […]
Quick Desk Exercises to Ease Shoulder Blade Pain: Expert Tips from a Physical Therapist
In this video, physical therapist Kathy Doubleday DPT, OCS, discusses how to alleviate pain between the shoulder blades caused by sitting at a computer for long periods. She suggests a few quick exercises that can be done while sitting at the desk. She recommends getting the back and thoracic spine up and taking a deep […]
Physical Therapist Recommended Exercises for Balance Improvement
In this video, Kathy Doubleday, a doctor of physical therapy, discusses the importance of balance exercises for seniors to prevent falls. Falls are a leading cause of injury in older adults, and they are not a normal part of aging. She explains that there are various factors that can contribute to the risk of falling, […]
The Best Way to Breathe During Exercise
Breathing in through your nose and out through your mouth is a common practice recommended during exercise, but is there an even better way? Nasal breathing offers several physiological and performance benefits. It helps filter and humidify the air, allowing for better oxygen absorption and reducing the risk of exercise-induced asthma. Nasal breathing also promotes […]
Chair Strength: Introduction to Seated Strength Exercises
Experience a new revolution in fitness with Rita Goldstein’s Chair Strength class, designed to make strength training accessible for everyone. This unique approach allows you to work all major muscle groups from the comfort of your chair. Not only does it enhance physical strength, but it also improves balance, flexibility, and coordination. Embrace the simplicity of this innovative fitness method and embark on a journey towards a healthier, stronger you. Remember, with Rita’s Chair Strength class, every step, no matter how small, brings you closer to your fitness goals.
Step-Over Skills to Avoid Tripping
This video includes Dr. Kathy Doubleday’s advice to improve balance when stepping over objects, which was suggested to a patient experiencing difficulty in stepping over things at home. The lesson involves two components: getting the leg up high enough to go over the object without hitting or tripping on it and weight shifting from one […]
Improve Your Shoulder Health with Three Expert Tips from a Physical Therapist
Physical therapist Dr. Kathy Doubleday shares three tips to decrease stress on our shoulders in this video. You will learn: How posture affects shoulder motion substantially. Adjusting our posture to a tall position before lifting an arm can naturally increase shoulder movement. Lifting arms in extreme positions or reaching across our body stresses our shoulders […]
The Value of Exercise for Older Adults
Exercise benefits people of all ages, but it is essential for seniors to stay active. As we age, our bodies become less resilient and are more susceptible to health problems. Fortunately, regular exercise can help offset the effects of aging by providing a wide range of benefits. The evidence is clear: regular exercise can help […]
Everything You Need to Know About Balance
Do you often feel unsteady, as if you constantly need to grab onto something to keep from falling? If you do, you may be considered ‘balance-challenged,’ but you’re far from alone. Balance issues are widespread among older people in the United States. While a problem may seem to develop suddenly, balance is a complex task […]
Osteoporosis 101: What You Need to Know About Bone Health and Fracture Risk
Osteoporosis is a bone disease that can seriously complicate the lives of older adults. It often leads to broken bones, most commonly as hip or spinal fractures. Unfortunately, many older adults don’t know enough about osteoporosis management or prevention. Whether or not you develop osteoporosis depends on your understanding of the disease. Knowing what makes […]
The Five Best Types of Exercise For Healthy Aging
Ready to get started with a new exercise routine but need to decide which types of exercise to focus on? Your exercise needs will change as you age, and the types of exercise seniors should focus on may differ from when you were younger. Research shows us that participating in an exercise program improves nearly all […]
