Have you been dealing with nagging pain or discomfort that has lingered a bit longer than you expected? Maybe not – perhaps you feel great, but you’ve noticed that your loved one has begun to decline in his or her functional ability. Have no fear; your physical therapist is here!

Here are a few reasons why you should #ChoosePT (physical therapy) as a first treatment option:

Physical therapists can help decrease pain by identifying the underlying problems that sit at the core of injuries. Physical therapists take on the challenge of decreasing inflammation, stiffness and soreness with manual therapies, strengthening interventions/exercises and soft tissue work to aid the body in its healing process. 

Physical therapy is effective in relieving pain in chronic conditions. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that even when opioids are prescribed, patients should receive the lowest effective dosage. What’s more, the CDC’s guidelines note that opioids should be combined with nonopioid therapies, such as physical therapy.

Here's some really great information on Bones, and how your muscles work with bones to create your amazing structure.

Bones

Peak bone mass happens in our late 20s to early 30s.

Bone loss occurs at the rate of 0.5% per year after the age of 40.

Post menopausal women lose bone at the rate of 5-6% per year for up to ten years.

Our bones serve many purposes, including:

 

Some foods give us more benefit than just calories. The foods listed have the following benefits. Use this as a guide to improve your health and recovery from surgery!

Omega – 3 Fatty Acids

Improve heart healthReduce risk of stroke and heart attackImprove brain functionDecrease inflammationMetabolismIdeal ratio of omega 6 to omega 3 is 1:1EPA is beneficial for heart health (wild fish, seaweed, algea)DHA improves brain function (synthesized from EPA)ALA does not decrease inflammation (nuts, seeds, vegetable oil)

Polyphenols

Potent anti-inflammatory compounds derived from plant sourcesCurcumin – active ingredient in TurmericAnti-inflammatoryAnti-arthritic effectsAnti-diabetic effectsAnti-cancer effectsAnti-depressantCardiac protectionNeuroprotective effectsInhibits formation of beta amyloid (Alzheimer’s Disease)Decreases joint painCocoaImproves glucose toleranceReduces blood pressureReduces cholesterolImproves platelet activityImproves endothelial functionOptimal dose: 1 tablespoon per day of dark, unsweetened 70% cacaoGreen TeaCancer preventionCardiac protectionNeuroprotective effectsWeight lossAnti-diabetic effectsDarker teas have higher polyphenol content

Probiotics