What is Laser Therapy and How Does it Work?

Lasers are one of the most convenient and effective tools in treatments and medicine.  Handheld laser devices are being used in a range of fields including, but not limited to: dental, veterinary, and oncological treatments. Low level laser therapy is one of the top techniques used by physical therapists along with manual therapy, traction and electrical stimulation.  Each therapy works in its own, unique way to make a patient feel better.  Low level laser therapy in particular, is used for muscular and/ or connective tissue injuries.  Laser Therapy uses specific wavelengths of light to stimulate healing and when receiving a laser therapy treatment patients do not feel a thing.  Major plus: healing pain without the pain of it.

The aim of laser therapy is to reduce inflammation as well as muscle fatigue and pain.  As great as the treatment is, the use of the laser in treatment is only the beginning. The decrease in inflammation combined with the increase in comfort allows for a therapist to move the joint around using manual therapy more easily and with more comfort for the patient, than without first having the laser treatment.  

People may be put off by the idea of a laser being used as part of their therapy, but there is nothing to fear.  The reason for this is due to the low level of laser treatment as opposed to a higher level laser treatment.  The low-power lasers used in these treatments are designed specifically to stimulate cells and encourage cells to function.  The low level laser therapy option can be one of the easiest things you ever do; all you have to do is sit back and relax and let the low level laser machine do it’s work, to bring you a few steps closer to treatment or recovery.

We feel like we have the best physical therapists around. Did you know you don't need a referral to get help from a Physical Therapist? Direct access is available for you, please call us and set up an evaluation so we can help get you back on your feet. In Orange County we offer Physical Therapy in Chester, Goshen, Monroe, Port Jervis, and Montogmery. Westchester County has Physical Therapy in Armonk, Bedford, and Hawthorne. In Ulster County we offer Physical Therapy in Wallkill, while in Sullivan County you can get Physical Therapy in Ferndale. To round out our 12 locations in New York, those living in Rockland County can go to Physical Therapy in New City as well as Pomona. If you happen to live in PA, we also have Physical Therapy in Milford and Dingmans Ferry of Pike County. Give us a call today!

- See more at: http://accessptw.com/blog/What-is-Laser-Therapy-and-How-Does-it-Work-~1491.html#sthash.bvahzUhI.dpuf

Why Stretching is Important

A common misconception about stretching is that it is only important for athletes in order to prevent injury, but in fact stretching is important for everyone. This does not necessarily mean that everyone needs to set time aside each day to stretch and flex their body, but simply that they need to be aware of the benefits that come from stretching and try to do so more often than not. Surprisingly, there is not a significant amount of research that directly links stretching as a cause for reduced injury in sports; however, it is widely recognized that it can instead make a person more comfortable, which in turn, increases performance.

Stretching not only makes a person more comfortable but it also improves development and posture. The main benefit of stretching is increasing the range of motion for target areas. While there is no significant proof that stretching prevents injury, an increase in range of motion during physical activity is likely to prevent imbalance and accidents that might lead to injury. Stretching is like a secret exercise; you may not see the results as clearly as building the size of a muscle or the length of personal endurance, but there is no doubt that it improves performance.  If you’re not convinced that stretching will make you more comfortable, then we dare you to try it. You might even find that stretching will make you more active. The main reason many people don’t stretch is that they can’t be bothered to take the time to do it because they do not see the point.  

Stretching also warms up the muscles.  The warming up of muscles allows for an increased flow of blood and oxygen that not only makes us more comfortable but also more willing to take advantage of that increased range of motion.  So whether you are trying to get rid of the aches and pains in your legs or back or trying to become more active, just bend down and touch your toes for thirty seconds; the only difference it is going to make in your life is a good one.

We feel like we have the best physical therapists around. Did you know you don't need a referral to get help from a Physical Therapist? Direct access is available for you, please call us and set up an evaluation so we can help get you back on your feet. In Orange County we offer Physical Therapy in Chester, Goshen, Monroe, Port Jervis, and Montogmery. Westchester County has Physical Therapy in Armonk, Bedford, and Hawthorne. In Ulster County we offer Physical Therapy in Wallkill, while in Sullivan County you can get Physical Therapy in Ferndale. To round out our 12 locations in New York, those living in Rockland County can go to Physical Therapy in New City as well as Pomona.  If you happen to live in PA, we also have Physical Therapy in Milford and Dingmans Ferry of Pike County.  Give us a call today!

- See more at: http://accessptw.com/blog/Why-Stretching-is-Important~1489.html#sthash.LIDOXKcg.dpuf

Avoiding Running Injuries

Running, a very healthy and beneficial activity, can be very dangerous if not performed correctly. Every year, about half the people who participate in running become injured. While some of these injuries are mild and often heal quickly, some can be more serious and leave you incapacitated for a long period of time. Fortunately, there are some strategies, techniques, and planning you can practice that can greatly reduce your risk of injury while going for a run.

The first step of preparation, which is often overlooked no matter how often it is stressed, is proper hydration. The last thing anybody needs is to become dehydrated during a run, and possible faint. This can be very dangerous, especially if running near busy roads. Hydration is also crucial for your muscles and nerves to behave properly on a run. If your body does not have enough water, you may feel weak and dizzy, unable to go running. Make sure you hydrate before, during, and after you run.

Proper footwear and clothing is necessary to get the full potential of health benefits that running has to offer. There is a great deal of injuries every year caused by improper footwear. Make sure that you consult with an expert to ensure that your footwear is right for you. It is also important to remember to replace shoes after they are worn out in order to prevent injury and ensure that you get the best grip on the road as possible. If clothing is too constricting, it can hinder your ability to run, and it can also cause you to sweat more than necessary. This can accelerate dehydration, and can be very dangerous.

Proper planning and technique is also necessary to ensure that you have the safest running experience possible. If you do not run correctly, including foot and arm placement, as well as proper stretching before, you may not be able to run to your full potential. A lack of stretching and proper running technique can also heighten your chance for injuries. These can be prevented very easily with a quick lesson in technique from a physical therapist or another expert. Planning your route is also important, as you want the safest running experience possible, away from busy roads and intersections.

If you are unsure about proper technique, gear, hydration, or nutrition, don’t hesitate to contact a physical therapist. They can advise you on all of these matters, and treat existing conditions related to running. Don’t hesitate to call, to ensure that you get the healthiest and safest running experience possible.

- See more at: http://accessptw.com/blog/Avoiding-Running-Injuries~1483.html#sthash.P4zyE5ag.dpuf

The Mulligan Concept

Access Physical Therapy and Wellness Center would like to congratulate Dr. Jonathan Hunziker on receiving his certification in The Mulligan Concept of Physical Therapy. Receiving this certification makes Dr. Hunziker the only physical therapist certified in the Mulligan Concept in Orange County, NY.

The Mulligan Concept was developed by Dr. Brian Mulligan of New Zealand. It requires both the patient and physical therapist to work together to alleviate the patient’s pain and increase their movement almost immediately. The Mulligan Concept requires the physical therapist to reposition the bone, muscle or joint that is causing pain while the patient moves the same body part simultaneously. For the most part, the Mulligan Concept is used for people with lower back pain, neck pain, tennis elbow, and impingement syndrome.

There are 4 main techniques that are used in the Mulligan Concept

• SNAGs
• NAGs
• Peripheral MWM
• SMWLMs

SNAGs stands for Sustained Natural Apophyseal Glides. SNAGs is typically used when treating pain in spinal joints, rib cages and the sacroiliac joint. NAGs stands for Natural Apophyseal Glides. NAGs will be used for injuries to the cervical and upper thoracic spine. Peripheral MWM stands for Peripheral Mobilisations with Movement. Peripheral MWM is used to help improve movement and functioning  in peripheral joints or extremity joints. SMWLMs stands for Spinal Mobilization with Limb Movements. SMWLMs will be used for pain and movement in the joints of lower extremities.

Therapists that are certified in the Mulligan Concept go through extensive training. They sit in on multiple seminars, and also complete multiple written and physical performance tests. This concept has resulted in both the immediate pain relief and improved functioning of joints in many patients when the concept is done correctly.

Access Physical Therapy and Wellness now offers the Mulligan Concept with Dr. Hunziker for the treatment of joint pain that may develop from sports injuries, work accidents, and back/neck pain.

- See more at: http://accessptw.com/blog/The-Mulligan-Concept~1481.html#sthash.wOkdUxp4.dpuf

Port Jervis Location

Are you in need of good physical therapy? Do you live in the Downstate and Hudson Valley area and can’t find a practice that will meet your personal and individual needs? Look no further as Access Physical Therapy and Wellness has many convenient locations throughout the Rockland, Westchester, Pike, Orange, Sullivan, and Ulster Counties. Access Physical Therapy & Wellness is a family-owned organization that provides their patients with the best Physical, Occupational, and Speech therapy services at 18 locations in five states. Founded nearly 11 years ago by Physical Therapists, Orange County natives, and brothers Stephen and Christopher Albanese and their wives Shannon and Janet. Access Physical Therapy and Wellness has twice been recognized as one of the Best Companies to Work for in New York by the New York State Society for Human Resource Management and Best Companies Group.

One of our Access Physical Therapy and Wellness practices, is located at Port Jervis in Orange County and is directed by Dr. Kristin Banse. With over 23 years of experience, Dr. Kristin Banse has concentrated in the field of orthopedic/sports medicine physical therapy for the past 15 years. She graduated from Ithaca College in 1991 with a bachelor’s degree in Physical Therapy. Dr. Banse holds certification as a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist through the National Strength and Conditioning Association and is also LSVT BIG certified. In addition, she is a certified APTA clinical instructor and holds a dual license in New York and Pennsylvania.

Serving Orange County for many years, Ellen Knapp-Hayden is another member of the team at Access Physical Therapy and Wellness in Port Jervis. After being a registered nurse for over 20 years, she decided to pursue a second career as a Physical Therapist Assistant and graduated from the SUNY Orange program in 2003. Ellen is also certified as as Senior Exercise Specialist, LSVT BIG, and APTA clinical instructor.

At Port Jervis, Dr. Banse and her staff of physical therapists will work diligently to ensure a speedy recovery and good health while also providing a great overall experience. Their goal is for every patient to complete their therapy with relief of their symptoms, an understanding about their condition, tips to stay healthy, and an improved quality of life.

We feel like we have the best physical therapists around. Did you know you don't need a referral to get help from a Physical Therapist? Direct access is available for you, please call us and set up an evaluation so we can help get you back on your feet. In Orange County we offer Physical Therapy in Chester, Goshen, Monroe, Port Jervis, and Montogmery. Westchester County has Physical Therapy in Armonk, Bedford, and Hawthorne. In Ulster County we offer Physical Therapy in Wallkill, while in Sullivan County you can get Physical Therapy in Ferndale. To round out our 12 locations in New York, those living in Rockland County can go to Physical Therapy in New City as well as Pomona. If you happen to live in PA, we also have Physical Therapy in Milford and Dingmans Ferry of Pike County. Give us a call today!

How Can Occupational Therapy Help People Recover After a Stroke

It is estimated that 5.4 million people are living with the effects of a stroke, the number one cause for adult disabilities. Those who experience a stroke should follow the path of recovery through Occupational Therapists who specialize in helping these people. Occupational Therapists will make the post rehabilitation effective and fit the needs for that specific individual. They do this by helping build endurance and strength and giving household equipment for daily exercises. Their main goal is to have the person reach their top performance again without the stroke affecting their life. An Occupational Therapist spends more time with a stroke survivor than any other professional out there.

It’s in their best interest to get the recovered patient on their feet again. When patients are ready to return home they must learn the community reintegration services, so that they can again engage in their environment with friends and families. Occupational Therapists can help with this by teaching families of stroke survivors certain techniques and regimens for their loved one. They will also test the stroke survivor to see if they are able to return to normal everyday activities. These include driving, running, bicycling, and anything they may do on their own leisure.

Stroke survivors may also have trouble with speaking after as their words get mixed up. Occupational Therapists help with writing exercises and other ways of communicating and pretty much anything else like bathing, cleaning, cooking and washing the dishes. Finally a stroke can affect the way a person thinks, from how a person concentrates to how they make their decisions. Occupational Therapists use certain devices to get people relearning tasks. Some of these devices include an alarm clock or a medicine container. Overall, Occupational Therapists are uniquely helpful for patients recovering from a stroke so don’t wait and call a therapist today.

We feel like we have the best physical therapists around. Did you know you don't need a referral to get help from a Physical Therapist? Direct access is available for you, please call us and set up an evaluation so we can help get you back on your feet. In Orange County we offer Physical Therapy in Chester, Goshen, Monroe, Port Jervis, and Montogmery. Westchester County has Physical Therapy in Armonk, Bedford, and Hawthorne. In Ulster County we offer Physical Therapy in Wallkill, while in Sullivan County you can get Physical Therapy in Ferndale. To round out our 12 locations in New York, those living in Rockland County can go to Physical Therapy in New City as well as Pomona. If you happen to live in PA, we also have Physical Therapy in Milford and Dingmans Ferry of Pike County. Give us a call today!

Choosing the proper cane

If you are advised by a doctor or physical therapist to use a cane it is important to make sure that the one you buy is the perfect fit for you. When buying a cane, if you do not buy one to meet your specific needs you can further hurt yourself. It is important to find a cane that is the right fit for you so that you will be safe and comfortable when using it.

After being advised to use a cane, you should consult a physical therapist so that you can be properly fitted. By getting properly fitted, you will be able to avoid any fall-related injuries. A recent study has show that 47,000 senior citizens have ended up in the emergency room due to falls from using the wrong walking aid, such as walkers or canes. With such a high number of falls and such a great risk of injury, physical therapists urge that you get fitted for a cane prior to using one. One of the biggest factors that leads to improper cane usage, is that many people borrow canes or walkers from family and friends. This is unsafe because not everyone is the same height or has the same needs when it comes to a walking aids.  If you do not have the proper cane you can experience discomfort when using the cane and risk further injury.

If you are in need of a walking aid, your physical therapist will first determine which is the right one for you. They will assess your needs and determine whether a cane or a walker is the best choice for your needs. Once this is decided, there are a few tips you should keep in mind to make sure your are using your cane properly. First, your cane should always be the height of your wrists when your arms are at your sides. This is a helpful way to check that you have your cane set at the proper height for your body. If you are using a walker, keep in mind that you should never have to bend forward at the waist to reach it, and if you do this may be a sign that your walker is set at the wrong height. Lastly, always check the rubber tips at the bottom of the cane or walker that you are using. If the rubber tips look uneven or are worn through, make sure to replace them. These rubber tips are there for your safety and to make sure you do not slip and fall.

Canes and walkers are there to be your aid and they should never be the cause of further injury. If you are using a cane it is important to make sure it is the proper fit for your body and that it stays in the best condition possible. Be sure to consult your physical therapist prior to using a cane to make sure you are using the right cane for you!

If you are advised by a doctor or physical therapist to use a cane it is important to make sure that the one you buy is the perfect fit for you. When buying a cane, if you do not buy one to meet your specific needs you can further hurt yourself. It is important to find a cane that is the right fit for you so that you will be safe and comfortable when using it.

After being advised to use a cane, you should consult a physical therapist so that you can be properly fitted. By getting properly fitted, you will be able to avoid any fall-related injuries. A recent study has show that 47,000 senior citizens have ended up in the emergency room due to falls from using the wrong walking aid, such as walkers or canes. With such a high number of falls and such a great risk of injury, physical therapists urge that you get fitted for a cane prior to using one. One of the biggest factors that leads to improper cane usage, is that many people borrow canes or walkers from family and friends. This is unsafe because not everyone is the same height or has the same needs when it comes to a walking aids.  If you do not have the proper cane you can experience discomfort when using the cane and risk further injury.

 

If you are in need of a walking aid, your physical therapist will first determine which is the right one for you. They will assess your needs and determine whether a cane or a walker is the best choice for your needs. Once this is decided, there are a few tips you should keep in mind to make sure your are using your cane properly. First, your cane should always be the height of your wrists when your arms are at your sides. This is a helpful way to check that you have your cane set at the proper height for your body. If you are using a walker, keep in mind that you should never have to bend forward at the waist to reach it, and if you do this may be a sign that your walker is set at the wrong height. Lastly, always check the rubber tips at the bottom of the cane or walker that you are using. If the rubber tips look uneven or are worn through, make sure to replace them. These rubber tips are there for your safety and to make sure you do not slip and fall.

Canes and walkers are there to be your aid and they should never be the cause of further injury. If you are using a cane it is important to make sure it is the proper fit for your body and that it stays in the best condition possible. Be sure to consult your physical therapist prior to using a cane to make sure you are using the right cane for you!

- See more at: http://accessptw.com/blog/Choosing-the-Proper-Cane~1445.html#sthash.9lqmFwp8.dpuf

If you are advised by a doctor or physical therapist to use a cane it is important to make sure that the one you buy is the perfect fit for you. When buying a cane, if you do not buy one to meet your specific needs you can further hurt yourself. It is important to find a cane that is the right fit for you so that you will be safe and comfortable when using it.

After being advised to use a cane, you should consult a physical therapist so that you can be properly fitted. By getting properly fitted, you will be able to avoid any fall-related injuries. A recent study has show that 47,000 senior citizens have ended up in the emergency room due to falls from using the wrong walking aid, such as walkers or canes. With such a high number of falls and such a great risk of injury, physical therapists urge that you get fitted for a cane prior to using one. One of the biggest factors that leads to improper cane usage, is that many people borrow canes or walkers from family and friends. This is unsafe because not everyone is the same height or has the same needs when it comes to a walking aids.  If you do not have the proper cane you can experience discomfort when using the cane and risk further injury.

 

If you are in need of a walking aid, your physical therapist will first determine which is the right one for you. They will assess your needs and determine whether a cane or a walker is the best choice for your needs. Once this is decided, there are a few tips you should keep in mind to make sure your are using your cane properly. First, your cane should always be the height of your wrists when your arms are at your sides. This is a helpful way to check that you have your cane set at the proper height for your body. If you are using a walker, keep in mind that you should never have to bend forward at the waist to reach it, and if you do this may be a sign that your walker is set at the wrong height. Lastly, always check the rubber tips at the bottom of the cane or walker that you are using. If the rubber tips look uneven or are worn through, make sure to replace them. These rubber tips are there for your safety and to make sure you do not slip and fall.

Canes and walkers are there to be your aid and they should never be the cause of further injury. If you are using a cane it is important to make sure it is the proper fit for your body and that it stays in the best condition possible. Be sure to consult your physical therapist prior to using a cane to make sure you are using the right cane for you!

- See more at: http://accessptw.com/blog/Choosing-the-Proper-Cane~1445.html#sthash.9lqmFwp8.dpuf