Parkinson's Disease and Physical Therapy

Everyone has heard of Parkinson’s Disease, but many people do not know what it is or what occurs when a person is suffering from it. Parkinson’s Disease is a progressive, degenerative disease that attacks the central nervous system of middle-aged and elderly people. This means that symptoms are chronic and worsen over time. About 1 million people in the United States suffer from Parkinson’s Disease. Parkinson’s Disease is most commonly linked with the overall degeneration of the basal ganglia and very low levels of dopamine. The basal ganglia is the structure at the base of the brain that is responsible for coordination and movement. Dopamine is the neurotransmitter responsible for transmitting signals between nerve cells in the brain. Overall, Parkinson’s Disease causes a person to lose control of their muscles, balance and coordination.

Symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease vary depending on the person, their age, and the stage of Parkinson’s that they are suffering from. The number one symptom that is prominent in most cases, and often the first one noticed, is tremors. Tremors are uncontrolled shaking in body parts such as hands, arms and legs. Tremors occur when the person is awake and sitting or standing still. Tremors will stop once that particular body part is moved by the person. Some of the other symptoms include stiff or aching muscles, limited movement when changing position, weak face and throat muscles that can lead to drooling and choking, softened speech, difficulty walking, loss of balance, and “freezing”. “Freezing” occurs typically while walking and is a quick inability to move or take another step. “Freezing” often leads to loss of balance and falls.

One of the new treatments that has been found to help reduce symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease and thus improve a person’s overall quality of life if physical therapy. Physical therapy that is used for Parkinson’s Disease patients is called “compensatory therapy”. It is called this, because although Parkinson’s Disease is currently irreversible, physical therapy helps to compensate for some of the symptoms that affect the people suffering from the disease. The goal of the physical therapy that is taught to Parkinson’s patients is to teach them exercises that can be done at home to strengthen and loosen muscles that are typically affected. The physical therapy that is currently being performed on Parkinson’s patients has been found to help with balance issues, coordination difficulty, immobility, muscle weakness, pain, and fatigue brought on by exerting oneself in order to perform daily tasks while suffering from the disease.

LSVT Big is one of these physical therapy programs that has been developed for people with Parkinson’s Disease. LSVT Big is composed of 16, hour long sessions that are given over one month. Each week is composed of 4 individual, hour long sessions that work to decrease the toll that Parkinson’s Disease takes on a person’s body. The intense nature of this program is designed to improve the capabilities of the specific muscles that are typically affected by Parkinson’s Disease.

In the past few months, 3 women at Access Physical Therapy & Wellness have become certified by LSVT Big to help people that are suffering with Parkinson’s Disease. Physical Therapist Kristin Banse, Physical Therapist Assistant Ellen Knapp-Hayden, and Dr. Amanda Staffiero chose to become certified. Ellen Knapp-Hayden says she made the choice to become certified because “We were looking for a forward-thinking therapy we could learn, that was needed in the communities we serve”.

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Looking for a Physical Therapist in Pomona?

Are you suffering from condition that causes you chronic pain such as fibromyalgia or arthritis? Did you sustain an injury while working or playing a sport? If you need physical therapy in Pomona, look no further than Access Physical Therapy and Wellness. We treat a variety of conditions and injuries through different techniques. We also treat pain care and management using many common techniques including epidural injections and TENS. We have three physical therapists, one physical therapist assistance, and our customer service specialist, who are available to help you with your physical therapy in Pomona. Access Physical Therapy does not just help athletes by treating sports related injuries, we also help athletes increase their skill, strength and ability. Our website has a list of the conditions and injuries that we treat. If you do not see your injury or condition listed, give us a call to see if we can help you. We see patients of all ages for various injuries. We accept a wide variety of different insurance coverage plans, to see if we accept your insurance either visit our website or give us a call. Access Physical Therapy and Wellness has multiple locations including a location for physical therapy in Pomona. If you need physical therapy in Pomona and think Access Physical Therapy and Wellness is the right fit for you, give us a call or visit our website. - See more at: http://accessptw.com/blog/Seeking-Physical-Therapy-in-Pomona-~1505.html#sthash.Np2QMxtQ.dpuf

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.

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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!