Newsletter

What’s New!

Winter 2019 is upon us! Special consideration should be taken this time of the year to check in regularly with your family, friends, and neighbors to ensure a happy and healthy season. Although, the snow may be quite beautiful and serene, it is easy to disregard the increased risk of injury and hospitalization via accidental falls, common colds, and harsher influenza/pneumonia occurrences. As a profound medical institution, we must encourage all of patients and clients to recognize signs and symptoms earlier, seek appropriate treatment, and avoid long-term disability.

Tips

Physical therapy plays an integral role in maintaining a healthy, active lifestyle and avoiding long-term disabilities throughout the cold winter months. As a tight knit community here on the Eastern Shore, and within our Atlantic locations, we should focus this season on addressing safe walking and balance strategies. Seek out your local physical therapists on effective solutions to prevent slips causing serious injury and proprioceptive techniques to improve your overall balance. The following are helpful hints on maintaining mobility through a wintry mix:

• Regularly perform stretches for the neck, back, shoulders, hips, & legs.
• Initiate an in-home strengthening program at least three times a week for major muscle groups.
• Set up a buddy system for shopping and other weekly chores to ensure safety.
• Maintain clear pathways for entering/exiting your home and use handrails when available.

Did You Know?

Annually, 2.8 million Americans are injured and treated in emergency departments due falls.

Falls are the most common cause of traumatic brain injuries (TBI).

Shoveling snow is associated with a higher risk of heart attack.

Financial toll for older adult falls may reach $67.7 billion by 2020.

Physical therapy helps improve confidence, reduce falls, and promote higher quality of life.

Staff Spotlight

Celebrate with Atlantic Physical Therapy as we wish all of our February babies a very Happy Birthday!

2^nd – Sally Hawkins

17^th – Jennifer Anderson

21^st – Derek Magee

26^th – Nick Gerthoffer