<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?><rss version="2.0" xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/" xmlns:wfw="http://wellformedweb.org/CommentAPI/" xmlns:dc="http://purl.org/dc/elements/1.1/" xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom" xmlns:sy="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/syndication/" xmlns:slash="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/slash/" > <channel> <title>Amanda Nguyen PT, DPT, Author at WWSPT.Com</title> <atom:link href="https://wwspt.com/author/amanda/feed/" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml" /> <link>https://wwspt.com/author/amanda/</link> <description>Healing, Function, Recovery, Health</description> <lastBuildDate>Tue, 20 Aug 2024 22:05:07 +0000</lastBuildDate> <language>en-US</language> <sy:updatePeriod> hourly </sy:updatePeriod> <sy:updateFrequency> 1 </sy:updateFrequency> <generator>https://wordpress.org/?v=6.7.2</generator> <site xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">215146180</site> <item> <title>Vestibular Migraine</title> <link>https://wwspt.com/vestibular-migraine/</link> <comments>https://wwspt.com/vestibular-migraine/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Amanda Nguyen PT, DPT]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Tue, 20 Aug 2024 22:03:06 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Blog]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Dizziness]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Migraines]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Physical Therapist]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Physical Therapy]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Vestibular Migraines]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Vestibular Rehabilitation]]></category> <category><![CDATA[WWS Physical Therapy and Vestibular Rehabilitation]]></category> <category><![CDATA[WWSPT]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://wwspt.com/?p=4464</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>One type of dizziness caused by migraines is called “vestibular migraines.” During a migraine episode, a person can experience vestibular symptoms, such as vertigo, dizziness, nausea, and sometimes vomiting. Episodes can occur with other migraine symptoms like light or sound sensitivity, visual aura, headaches, or dizziness might be the only symptom. Symptoms can vary in […]</p> <p>The post <a href="https://wwspt.com/vestibular-migraine/">Vestibular Migraine</a> appeared first on <a href="https://wwspt.com">WWSPT.Com</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<div>One type of dizziness caused by migraines is called “vestibular migraines.” During a migraine episode, a person can experience vestibular symptoms, such as vertigo, dizziness, nausea, and sometimes vomiting. Episodes can occur with other migraine symptoms like light or sound sensitivity, visual aura, headaches, or dizziness might be the only symptom. Symptoms can vary in intensity and last from 5 minutes to 72 hours. At WWS Physical Therapy and Vestibular Rehabilitation, WWSPT, we can differentiate between possible vestibular diagnoses based on a patient’s current symptoms and history and a battery of vestibular tests to determine what is causing your dizziness. If we determine vestibular migraines are your issue, there are exercises we can do to address motion sensitivity, dizziness, and balance. More importantly, for migraine management, we can educate you on how to manage your symptoms, identify triggers of the migraines, and prevent future episodes.</div> <div></div> <div><img decoding="async" class="aligncenter" src="https://wwspt.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/vestibular-Migraines-COVID19.jpg" /></div> <div></div> <div></div> <div>Dr. Amanda Nguyen, PT, DPT,<br /> WWS Physical Therapy and Vestibular Rehabilitation<br /> Doylestown, Pennsylvania</div> <div>215-489-3234</div> <div></div> <div></div> <div></div> <p>The post <a href="https://wwspt.com/vestibular-migraine/">Vestibular Migraine</a> appeared first on <a href="https://wwspt.com">WWSPT.Com</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://wwspt.com/vestibular-migraine/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">4464</post-id> </item> <item> <title>Physical Therapy Technology and Research Combined Sections Meeting (CSM)</title> <link>https://wwspt.com/physical-therapy-technology-and-research-combined-sections-meeting-csm/</link> <comments>https://wwspt.com/physical-therapy-technology-and-research-combined-sections-meeting-csm/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Amanda Nguyen PT, DPT]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Mon, 11 Mar 2024 18:02:32 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[acute care]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Blog]]></category> <category><![CDATA[BPPV]]></category> <category><![CDATA[BPPV treatment]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Combined Sections Metting (CMS)]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Dizziness]]></category> <category><![CDATA[long COVID]]></category> <category><![CDATA[neurology]]></category> <category><![CDATA[orthopedic treatment]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Pelvic Floor]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Physical Therapist]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Physical Therapy]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Vertigo]]></category> <category><![CDATA[vestibular disorders]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Vestibular Rehabilitation]]></category> <category><![CDATA[VR]]></category> <category><![CDATA[WWS Physical Therapy and Vestibular Rehabilitation]]></category> <category><![CDATA[WWSPT]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://wwspt.com/?p=4356</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>I was fortunate enough to be able to attend the Combined Sections Meeting (CSM) in Boston, Massachusetts, last month. CSM is a yearly conference held over multiple days where thousands of physical therapists worldwide meet and share the latest technology and research. Educational sessions last about two hours each, with endless daily poster presentations. Topics […]</p> <p>The post <a href="https://wwspt.com/physical-therapy-technology-and-research-combined-sections-meeting-csm/">Physical Therapy Technology and Research Combined Sections Meeting (CSM)</a> appeared first on <a href="https://wwspt.com">WWSPT.Com</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>I was fortunate enough to be able to attend the Combined Sections Meeting (CSM) in Boston, Massachusetts, last month. CSM is a yearly conference held over multiple days where thousands of physical therapists worldwide meet and share the latest technology and research.</p> <p><img fetchpriority="high" decoding="async" class="aligncenter" src="https://wwspt.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/CMS_Mtg_Classroom.jpg " alt="" width="640" height="800" /></p> <p>Educational sessions last about two hours each, with endless daily poster presentations. Topics included orthopedics, pelvic floor, acute care, neurology, and vestibular. I attended various vestibular courses over the two days I was there. I sat in lectures held by some of the most innovative heads of the vestibular world, like Dr. Susan Whitney (University of Pittsburgh), Dr. Barry Semongal (Imperial College London), Dr. Janet Helmeinski (Rosalind Franklin University) and Dr. Janene Holmberg (Intermountain Healthcare out of Salt Lake, Utah).</p> <p><img decoding="async" class="aligncenter" src="https://wwspt.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/CMS_Boston_2024.jpg" alt="" width="619" height="800" /></p> <p>They spoke about various vestibular topics, such as the latest BPPV research, treatment of different types of BPPV, chronic dizziness, and even appropriate treatment for dizziness from long COVID.</p> <p><img decoding="async" class="aligncenter" src="https://wwspt.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Hemanski_Ostroski.jpg" alt="" width="604" height="341" /></p> <p>I learned so much from this esteemed group and was excited to take the knowledge back to WWSPT, where I can share it with my colleagues and use it to treat my patients.</p> <p> </p> <p>Dr. Amanda Nguyen, PT, DPT,<br /> WWS Physical Therapy and Vestibular Rehabilitation<br /> Doylestown, PA.<br /> (215) 489-3234</p> <p>The post <a href="https://wwspt.com/physical-therapy-technology-and-research-combined-sections-meeting-csm/">Physical Therapy Technology and Research Combined Sections Meeting (CSM)</a> appeared first on <a href="https://wwspt.com">WWSPT.Com</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://wwspt.com/physical-therapy-technology-and-research-combined-sections-meeting-csm/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">4356</post-id> </item> <item> <title>Exercise for a Healthy Heart</title> <link>https://wwspt.com/exercise-for-a-healthy-heart/</link> <comments>https://wwspt.com/exercise-for-a-healthy-heart/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Amanda Nguyen PT, DPT]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Thu, 15 Feb 2024 12:22:37 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Blog]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Blood Pressure]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Exercise]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Health and Wellness]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Health Heart Awareness Month]]></category> <category><![CDATA[heart]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Isometric Exercises]]></category> <category><![CDATA[physical activity]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Physical Therapist]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Physical Therapy]]></category> <category><![CDATA[WWS Physical Therapy and Vestibular Rehabilitation]]></category> <category><![CDATA[WWSPT]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://wwspt.com/?p=4324</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>February is Heart Health Awareness Month!   Valentine’s Day has passed, but it is a good reminder to show the people closest to you love and affection and to give yourself love and care. That includes taking care of Your Body and Your Heart.     As we all know, the Heart is a vital […]</p> <p>The post <a href="https://wwspt.com/exercise-for-a-healthy-heart/">Exercise for a Healthy Heart</a> appeared first on <a href="https://wwspt.com">WWSPT.Com</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<h1>February is Heart Health Awareness Month!</h1> <p> </p> <p>Valentine’s Day has passed, but it is a good reminder to show the people closest to you love and affection and to give yourself love and care. That includes taking care of <strong>Your Body and Your Heart.</strong></p> <p> </p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter" src="https://wwspt.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Heart-Health-scaled.jpeg" alt="" width="830" height="547" /></p> <p> </p> <p>As we all know, the Heart is a vital organ in the body. It pumps blood full of oxygen and nutrients to the rest of the body. Vital signs like heart rate and blood pressure are good indicators of heart health. They are easy to measure and track with the devices <b>Accessible</b> to us now.</p> <p><b>How can you keep your heart healthy?</b> <b>Exercise </b>is a great way to do it. <b>Cardiovascular exercises </b>like running or brisk walking, strength training, and high-intensity workouts can all help improve and maintain your heart health. They can improve blood pressure and efficiency of <b>Your </b>heart. It is recommended you get 150 minutes of moderate activity a week.</p> <p> </p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter" src="https://wwspt.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Squat-Woman-scaled-e1708103576822.jpeg" alt="" width="803" height="1044" /></p> <p> </p> <p>Some of us cannot tolerate high-intensity workouts and running; thankfully, there are other ways to exercise and get the Cardiac benefits. Recent research shows <b>Isometric exercises</b> and activities are effective in reducing blood pressure. Exercises like planks, knee extension holds, grip holding, and wall squats have proven effective. When you maintain a position for some time, these exercises make you work the muscles longer, making your heart work harder to provide oxygen for the working muscles. The increased load on your heart will make it more efficient and effective over time, thus slowing down your heart rate and improving your blood pressure. Isometric exercises are good for your heart and a great way to improve muscle strength and endurance.</p> <p>Let us know if you need guidance on starting an exercise program or are experiencing pain and discomfort preventing you from moving or exercising. The physical therapists at WWSPT would be happy to help you take good care of Your Body and achieve your goals.</p> <p> </p> <p>Dr. Amanda Nguyen, PT, DPT<br /> WWS Physical Therapy and Vestibular Rehabilitation<br /> Doylestown, PA.<br /> (215) 489-3234</p> <p>The post <a href="https://wwspt.com/exercise-for-a-healthy-heart/">Exercise for a Healthy Heart</a> appeared first on <a href="https://wwspt.com">WWSPT.Com</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://wwspt.com/exercise-for-a-healthy-heart/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">4324</post-id> </item> <item> <title>Balance Awareness Week – Infrared Goggles</title> <link>https://wwspt.com/balance-awareness-week-infrared-goggles/</link> <comments>https://wwspt.com/balance-awareness-week-infrared-goggles/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Amanda Nguyen PT, DPT]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Tue, 19 Sep 2023 13:54:09 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[balance]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Balanec Awareness Week]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Blog]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Dizziness]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Infrared Goggles]]></category> <category><![CDATA[vestibular disorders]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Vestibular Rehabilitation]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Vestibular System]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://wwspt.com/?p=4197</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>A problem with the vestibular system or your inner ear system is a possible source of balance issues. This system tells your head how you are oriented in space and sends signals to your brain about how your head moves. To assess this very tiny system, we use infrared goggles.   We use Infrared Goggles […]</p> <p>The post <a href="https://wwspt.com/balance-awareness-week-infrared-goggles/">Balance Awareness Week – Infrared Goggles</a> appeared first on <a href="https://wwspt.com">WWSPT.Com</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">A problem with the vestibular system or your inner ear system is a possible source of balance issues. This system tells your head how you are oriented in space and sends signals to your brain about how your head moves. To assess this very tiny system, we use infrared goggles.</span></p> <p> </p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">We use</span><b> Infrared Goggles</b><span style="font-weight: 400;"> when evaluating each person with dizziness or unexplained imbalance. The goggles are an </span><b>essential</b><span style="font-weight: 400;"> tool we use to specifically diagnose any vestibular deficits by helping us observe and record your eye movements. Your eyes are a key factor in determining the cause of your balance issue. Sometimes, when you are dizzy or feeling unsteady, your eyes will move in a pattern pointing to a particular inner ear issue, such as decreased vestibular function on one side, or benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV).</span></p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter" src="https://wwspt.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Dr-Greg-Synnestvedt-PT-DPT-using-Insight-Infrared-Video-Googles.png" alt="" width="800" height="600" /></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Testing with the goggles is relatively simple. We will place the goggles over your eyes, and while it may feel like you are about to enter a virtual reality world, you will be in the dark. Cameras in the goggles send video feedback to our computers, and we can watch your eyes move. From here, we will do different tests and put you in different positions to see how your eyes move and if it provokes any dizziness.</span></p> <p> </p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">These goggles give us the most accurate information so we can treat the exact issue you are dealing with. While some balance and vestibular issues can be assessed without infrared goggles, the most thorough assessment includes testing with the goggles.</span></p> <p>Dr. <span style="font-weight: 400;">Amanda Nguyen, PT, DPT,<br /> WWS Physical Therapy and Vestibular Rehabilitation<br /> Doylestown, PA.<br /> 215 -489-3234 </span></p> <p>The post <a href="https://wwspt.com/balance-awareness-week-infrared-goggles/">Balance Awareness Week – Infrared Goggles</a> appeared first on <a href="https://wwspt.com">WWSPT.Com</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://wwspt.com/balance-awareness-week-infrared-goggles/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">4197</post-id> </item> <item> <title>Explaining Low Back Pain Beyond the Diagnosis</title> <link>https://wwspt.com/explaining-low-back-pain-beyond-the-diagnosis/</link> <comments>https://wwspt.com/explaining-low-back-pain-beyond-the-diagnosis/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Amanda Nguyen PT, DPT]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Fri, 25 Aug 2023 13:50:03 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[back pain]]></category> <category><![CDATA[BCWJ]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Blog]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Bucks County Womens Journal]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Exercise]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Healthy Aging]]></category> <category><![CDATA[imaging studies]]></category> <category><![CDATA[LBP]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Low BackPain]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Opioid Epidemic]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Orthopedic Rehabilitation]]></category> <category><![CDATA[orthopedic treatment]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Orthopedic Treatment - BCWJ]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Pain]]></category> <category><![CDATA[physical activity]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Physical Therapist]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Physical Therapy]]></category> <category><![CDATA[WWS Physical Therapy and Vestibular Rehabilitation]]></category> <category><![CDATA[WWSPT]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://wwspt.com/?p=4181</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>Low back pain, #LBP, is one of the most common injuries people experience and get treated for in Physical Therapy. According to a study published by Georgetown University, nearly 65 million Americans report a recent episode of back pain, and some 16 million adults are limited in certain everyday activities due to chronic back pain. The […]</p> <p>The post <a href="https://wwspt.com/explaining-low-back-pain-beyond-the-diagnosis/">Explaining Low Back Pain Beyond the Diagnosis</a> appeared first on <a href="https://wwspt.com">WWSPT.Com</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Low back pain, #LBP, is one of the most common injuries people experience and get treated for in <strong>Physical Therapy</strong>. According to a study published by Georgetown University, nearly 65 million Americans report a recent episode of back pain, and some 16 million adults are limited in certain everyday activities due to chronic back pain.</p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter" src="https://wwspt.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/LowBackPain.jpg" alt="" width="395" height="330" /></p> <p>The most common diagnoses of low back injuries seen in physical therapy are osteoarthritis, degenerative disc disease, strains/ sprains, disc herniations, and sciatica. These diagnoses are especially prevalent among people over the age of 40. Often, an X-ray, MRI, or CT scan is needed to confirm one of these diagnoses. However, just because one of these diagnoses is present in the lower back doesn’t mean it is the root cause of pain.</p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter" src="https://wwspt.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/MRI.XRay_-e1507834511461.jpg" alt="" width="400" height="270" /></p> <p>Imaging does not always correlate with symptoms. In a research study published in the <em>American Journal of </em><em>Neuroradiology</em>, researchers took MRI images and CT scans of spines in groups of people ages 20 to 80 years old <strong>without pain</strong>. They found that about 37% of the 20-year-olds and approximately 96% of the 80-year-olds had disc degeneration. Researchers also found that among the 20-year-olds, about 30% had evidence of disc bulging or disc herniation, while 85% of the 80-year-olds had it. While the imaging revealed something abnormal about the participants’ spines, they did not report any pain.</p> <p> </p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter" src="https://wwspt.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/MRI-Imaging-e1507834368365.jpg" alt="" width="397" height="270" /></p> <p> </p> <p><strong>However, some people with one or both of these diagnoses have pain. So, what is the difference if two people have the same diagnosis, but one is experiencing pain, and the other is not?</strong></p> <p><strong> </strong>Even though two people may have the same diagnoses, their presentation is never identical; no two people have the same medical histories, comorbidities, work conditions, personal activities, and habits. As a result of these factors, different muscles are being used more often than others, which leads to asymmetries of the body. If muscles are weak or inflexible, the other muscles of the body have to compensate for those imbalances, which results in improper movement patterns and pain.</p> <p>If there was no traumatic event like a car accident, odds are the structural change, like the disc bulge, was there long before the pain started. The area could have been irritated with a small movement, but it was enough to cause an exacerbation of symptoms. This is often true when someone suddenly falls or shovels for the first time in the season. The pain may dissipate when this acute irritation calms down, but the same disc bulge or degeneration remains. For some, though, the pain can become chronic and persistent.</p> <p>In Alie Ward’s podcast “Ologies,” the Dolorology episode, she interviews Dr. Rachel Zoffness, a pain psychologist, about chronic pain. She discusses chronic pain as “<strong>a biopsychosocial</strong><strong> phenomenon</strong>.” Pain is influenced by biomedical (i.e., structural changes to the body), psychology (i.e., trauma, depression, mood), and social factors (i.e., environment, accessibility), and all of these factors should be considered when treating chronic pain.</p> <p>Dr. Zoffness also discusses the use of opioids for <strong>chronic pain</strong>. The opioid epidemic has become a major topic because of the many overdose deaths. While these medications can block pain messages effectively, they desensitize the brain to pain and the effects of the drug. The brain gets accustomed to the medication and then demands a higher dose to decrease pain and keep it manageable. In another scenario, the pain signals can return with a vengeance if a dose is missed.</p> <p>Research shows that opioids are ineffective in long-term low back pain, but <strong>exercise </strong><strong>and activity </strong>are effective. For those who have pain with everyday tasks, their brain is very sensitive to pain because of how long pain has been present. The brain is very good about protecting the body, so it sends “danger” messages when doing tasks like unloading the dishwasher, even though they are not dangerous. So small bouts of <strong>exercise and activity </strong>lead to <strong>desensitization </strong>of the body and reteach the brain that these tasks are normal.</p> <p>Addressing the mental state is also important when dealing with long-term pain. If someone is in a bad mood or stressed out, pain can be more intense due to the brain chemicals released when he or she is not feeling good. For instance, when you’re not feeling well, your body feels so much heavier and achy. <strong>Exercise </strong>can release endorphins and dopamine to boost mood and make you feel good.</p> <p><img decoding="async" class="aligncenter" src="https://wwspt.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/PT-ad-ortho.png" alt="" /></p> <p> </p> <p>So, what exercises or movements are appropriate for back pain? Physical therapists are <strong>movement</strong><strong> experts </strong>and will be able to evaluate and assess your pain. Many of the diagnoses listed earlier are treatable with physical therapy, but at WWSPT, we don’t just treat the diagnosis; we treat the person. We will evaluate your movement, strength, and flexibility. We will take into consideration your past medical and social history. From that information, we will develop a plan for you to become pain-free and return to your prior level of function.</p> <p> </p> <p>Dr. Amanda Nguyen. PT. DPT,<br /> WWS Physical Therapy and Vestibular Rehabilitation<br /> Doylestown, PA.</p> <p>The post <a href="https://wwspt.com/explaining-low-back-pain-beyond-the-diagnosis/">Explaining Low Back Pain Beyond the Diagnosis</a> appeared first on <a href="https://wwspt.com">WWSPT.Com</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://wwspt.com/explaining-low-back-pain-beyond-the-diagnosis/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">4181</post-id> </item> <item> <title>Physical Therapy Crucial for Shoulder Health</title> <link>https://wwspt.com/physical-therapy-crucial-for-shoulder-health/</link> <comments>https://wwspt.com/physical-therapy-crucial-for-shoulder-health/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Amanda Nguyen PT, DPT]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Sun, 05 Feb 2023 22:07:01 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Blog]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Bucks County Womens Journal]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Exercise]]></category> <category><![CDATA[injury]]></category> <category><![CDATA[injury prevention]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Muscle Strain]]></category> <category><![CDATA[orthopedic treatment]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Physical Therapist]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Physical Therapy]]></category> <category><![CDATA[posture]]></category> <category><![CDATA[PT Treatments]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Shoulder Injuries]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Treatments]]></category> <category><![CDATA[WWS Physical Therapy and Vestibular Rehabilitation]]></category> <category><![CDATA[WWSPT]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://wwspt.com/?p=3679</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>From the current issue, the Bucks County Women’s Journal, BCWJ, article by Dr. Amanda Nguyen, PT, DPT, at WWSPT Before you even “start your day,” you have used your shoulders countless times. Your shoulders are moving in many directions to allow you to complete your normal activities. You use your shoulders and arms to get […]</p> <p>The post <a href="https://wwspt.com/physical-therapy-crucial-for-shoulder-health/">Physical Therapy Crucial for Shoulder Health</a> appeared first on <a href="https://wwspt.com">WWSPT.Com</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>From the current issue, the Bucks County Women’s Journal, <strong>BCWJ,</strong> article by Dr. Amanda Nguyen, PT, DPT, at <strong>WWSPT</strong></p> <p>Before you even “start your day,” you have used your shoulders countless times. Your shoulders are moving in many directions to allow you to complete your normal activities. You use your shoulders and arms to get out of bed, wash your body and hair in the shower, do your hygiene, and get dressed. Physical therapy can keep your shoulders healthy.</p> <p>The shoulder is a complex joint composed of many components that work together to make your arm move. The shoulder is a ball and socket joint made from the scapula, the shoulder blade, and the head of the humerus— the long arm bone. The clavicle, or the collar bone, is also part of the shoulder and contributes to shoulder stability and function. The shoulder blade lies over the ribs and acts as a base for the shoulder, especially for overhead movements and activities. Problems with any shoulder complex component can lead to shoulder function problems.</p> <p><img decoding="async" class="aligncenter" src="https://wwspt.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Shoulder-Dr.-Amanda-Nguyen-PT-DPT.png" alt="" /></p> <p>The shoulder moves in all different directions more than any other joint in your body. The shoulder allows the arm to go up and down like when you are reaching, sideways, forward, and backward, across the body and away from the body, and to rotate when throwing. With this freedom of movement, the shoulder needs stability. This stability prevents excessive movements and prevents injury and pain.</p> <p>Muscles are a big part of providing stability. Muscles attach to the bone via tendons. There are at least 16 muscles that provide stability and normal movement for the shoulder. The muscles’ adequate strength will allow joint mobility and stability and promote vital bone health. A few main muscle groups are especially important stabilizers, often not targeted in traditional workouts.</p> <p>The first major muscle group is the rotator cuffs. You have four rotator cuff muscles: the supraspinatus, subscapularis, infraspinatus, and teres minor. These muscles run along your scapula and attach to the head of the humerus, which allows you to throw a ball or wash dishes.</p> <p>These muscles mainly provide rotation of the shoulder, known as internal and external rotation, though they also help in many other motions. In addition to providing movement, they are dynamic stabilizers. As the shoulder moves, the rotator cuff assists with keeping the “ball” moving within the socket while preventing excessive movement and translation within the joint.</p> <p>The second major muscle group is the postural stabilizers which include muscles of the scapulothoracic complex. These muscles assist in the movement and stability of the scapula and contribute to postural stability. You can get up from the floor or hold a plank position with these muscles.</p> <p>Posture is an essential factor in shoulder health. Good alignment is the most efficient for shoulder movement. Try this: sit in your poorest posture with your head forward, a rounded back, and shoulders, and try to lift your arm. Now try sitting nice and upright with your head.</p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p>The post <a href="https://wwspt.com/physical-therapy-crucial-for-shoulder-health/">Physical Therapy Crucial for Shoulder Health</a> appeared first on <a href="https://wwspt.com">WWSPT.Com</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://wwspt.com/physical-therapy-crucial-for-shoulder-health/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">3679</post-id> </item> <item> <title>Explaining Low Back Pain: More Than the Diagnosis</title> <link>https://wwspt.com/explaining-low-back-pain-more-than-the-diagnosis/</link> <comments>https://wwspt.com/explaining-low-back-pain-more-than-the-diagnosis/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Amanda Nguyen PT, DPT]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Mon, 07 Feb 2022 12:00:08 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[back pain]]></category> <category><![CDATA[BCWJ]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Blog]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Bucks County Womens Journal]]></category> <category><![CDATA[cervical retraction]]></category> <category><![CDATA[cervical spine]]></category> <category><![CDATA[dynamic stretching]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Exercise]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Fitness]]></category> <category><![CDATA[injury]]></category> <category><![CDATA[injury prevention]]></category> <category><![CDATA[LBP]]></category> <category><![CDATA[movement]]></category> <category><![CDATA[orthopedic treatment]]></category> <category><![CDATA[physical activity]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Physical Therapist]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Physical Therapy]]></category> <category><![CDATA[PT Treatments]]></category> <category><![CDATA[WWS Physical Therapy and Vestibular Rehabilitation]]></category> <category><![CDATA[WWSPT]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://wwspt.com/?p=3366</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>From our latest article in The Bucks County Women’s Journal, #BCWJ Winter is here, which means Snow… while it is beautiful and fun for some… it can lead to certain injuries for others. People can get injured from slipping and falling on ice, from shoveling snow, or even due to just being inactive because of […]</p> <p>The post <a href="https://wwspt.com/explaining-low-back-pain-more-than-the-diagnosis/">Explaining Low Back Pain: More Than the Diagnosis</a> appeared first on <a href="https://wwspt.com">WWSPT.Com</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>From our latest article in The Bucks County Women’s Journal, #BCWJ</p> <p>Winter is here, which means Snow… while it is beautiful and fun for some… it can lead to certain injuries for others. People can get injured from slipping and falling on ice, from shoveling snow, or even due to just being inactive because of the cold weather. A common injury due to snow and winter is low back pain. Low back pain, #LBP, is one of the most common injuries people experience and get treated for in <strong>Physical Therapy</strong>.</p> <p>According to a study published by Georgetown University, nearly 65 million Americans report a recent episode of back pain, and some 16 million adults are limited in certain everyday activities due to chronic back pain.</p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter" src="https://wwspt.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/LowBackPain.jpg" alt="" width="395" height="330" /></p> <p>The most common diagnoses related to low back injuries seen in physical therapy are osteoarthritis, degenerative disc disease, strains/ sprains, disc herniations, and sciatica. These diagnoses are especially prevalent among people over the age of 40. To confirm one of these diagnoses, often an X-ray, MRI, or CT scan is needed. However, just because one of these diagnoses is present in the low back, that doesn’t mean it is the root cause of pain.</p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter" src="https://wwspt.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/MRI.XRay_-e1507834511461.jpg" alt="" width="400" height="270" /></p> <p>Imaging does not always correlate with symptoms. In a research study published in the <em>American Journal of </em><em>Neuroradiology</em>, researchers took MRI images and CT scans of spines in groups of people ages 20 to 80 years old <strong>without pain</strong>. What they found was that about 37% of the 20-year- olds and approximately 96% of the 80-year-olds had disc degeneration. Researchers also found that among the 20-year- olds, about 30% had evidence of disc bulging or disc herniation, while 85% of the 80-year-olds had it. While the imaging revealed something abnormal about the participants’ spines, they did not report any pain.</p> <p> </p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter" src="https://wwspt.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/MRI-Imaging-e1507834368365.jpg" alt="" width="397" height="270" /></p> <p> </p> <p><strong>However, there are people with one or both of these diagnoses who do have pain. So, if two people have the same diagnosis, but one is experiencing pain and the other is not, what is the difference?</strong></p> <p><strong> </strong>Even though two people may have the same diagnoses, their presentation is never identical; no two people have the same medical histories, comorbidities, work conditions, personal activities, and habits. As a result of these factors, different muscles are being used more often than others, which leads to asymmetries of the body. If muscles are weak or inflexible, the other muscles of the body have to compensate for those imbalances, which results in improper movement patterns and pain.</p> <p>If there was not a traumatic event like a car accident, odds are the structural change like the disc bulge was there long before the pain started. The area could have been irritated with a small movement, but it was enough to cause an exacerbation of symptoms. This is often true when someone suddenly falls or shovels for the first time in the season. When this acute irritation calms down, the pain may dissipate, but the same disc bulge or degeneration is still present. For some, though, the pain can become chronic and persistent.</p> <p>In Alie Ward’s podcast “Ologies,” the episode titled Dolorology, she interviews Dr. Rachel Zoffness, a pain psychologist, about chronic pain. She discusses chronic pain as “<strong>a biopsychosocial</strong><strong> phenomenon</strong>.” Pain is influenced by biomedical (i.e., structural changes to the body), psychology (i.e., trauma, depression, mood), and social factors (i.e., environment, accessibility), and all of these factors should be considered when treating chronic pain.</p> <p>Dr. Zoffness also discusses the use of opioids for <strong>chronic pain</strong>. The opioid epidemic has become a major topic because of the very high number of deaths related to overdoses. While these medications can block pain messages effectively, they desensitize the brain to pain and the effects of the drug. The brain gets accustomed to the medication and then demands a higher dose to decrease pain and keep it manageable. In another scenario, if a dose is missed, the pain signals can come back with a vengeance.</p> <p>Research shows that opioids are not effective in treating low back pain long-term, but <strong>exercise </strong><strong>and activity </strong>are effective. For those who have pain with everyday tasks, their brain is very sensitive to pain because of how long pain has been present. The brain is very good about protecting the body, so it sends “danger” messages when doing tasks like unloading the dishwasher even though they are not dangerous. So small bouts of <strong>exercise and activity </strong>lead to <strong>desensitization </strong>of the body and reteach the brain that these tasks are normal.</p> <p>Addressing the mental state is also important when dealing with long-term pain. If someone is in a bad mood or stressed out, pain can be more intense due to the brain chemicals released when he or she is not feeling good. For instance, when you’re not feeling well, your body feels so much heavier and achy. <strong>Exercise </strong>can release endorphins and dopamine to boost mood and make you feel good.</p> <p><img decoding="async" class="aligncenter" src="https://wwspt.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/PT-ad-ortho.png" alt="" /></p> <p> </p> <p>So, what exercises or movements are appropriate for back pain? Physical therapists are <strong>movement</strong><strong> experts </strong>and will be able to evaluate and assess your pain. Many of the diagnoses listed earlier are treatable with physical therapy, but at WWSPT we don’t just treat the diagnosis, we treat the person. We will evaluate your movement, strength, and flexibility. We will take into consideration your past medical and social history. From that information, we will develop a plan for you to become pain-free and return to your prior level of function.</p> <p> </p> <p>Dr. Amanda Nguyen. PT. DPT,<br /> WWS Physical Therapy and Vestibular Rehabilitation<br /> Doylestown, PA.</p> <p>The post <a href="https://wwspt.com/explaining-low-back-pain-more-than-the-diagnosis/">Explaining Low Back Pain: More Than the Diagnosis</a> appeared first on <a href="https://wwspt.com">WWSPT.Com</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://wwspt.com/explaining-low-back-pain-more-than-the-diagnosis/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">3366</post-id> </item> <item> <title>WINTER IS HERE!!!!</title> <link>https://wwspt.com/winter-is-here/</link> <comments>https://wwspt.com/winter-is-here/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Amanda Nguyen PT, DPT]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Tue, 04 Jan 2022 20:15:57 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[alignment]]></category> <category><![CDATA[back pain]]></category> <category><![CDATA[balance]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Blog]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Ergonomic lifting]]></category> <category><![CDATA[falls]]></category> <category><![CDATA[fatigue]]></category> <category><![CDATA[injury prevention]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Lift with your Legs]]></category> <category><![CDATA[orthopedic treatment]]></category> <category><![CDATA[physical activity]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Physical Therapy]]></category> <category><![CDATA[WWS Physical Therapy and Vestibular Rehabilitation]]></category> <category><![CDATA[WWSPT]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://wwspt.com/?p=3312</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>Right on Schedule … winter is here…   Winter is here and soon the snow will decorate our driveways and backyards which means the taxing chore of shoveling. Around this time we often see patients in the physical therapy clinic with back, shoulder, or leg injuries from shoveling. Here are some exercises to do and […]</p> <p>The post <a href="https://wwspt.com/winter-is-here/">WINTER IS HERE!!!!</a> appeared first on <a href="https://wwspt.com">WWSPT.Com</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Right on Schedule … winter is here…</p> <p><img decoding="async" class="aligncenter" src="https://wwspt.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Winter-snnowman.jpg" alt="" /></p> <p> </p> <p>Winter is here and soon the snow will decorate our driveways and backyards which means the taxing chore of shoveling. Around this time we often see patients in the physical therapy clinic with back, shoulder, or leg injuries from shoveling. Here are some exercises to do and tips to keep in mind to avoid potentially hurting yourself.</p> <p>Stretch beforehand!</p> <p>Our bodies need to warm up before we start any heavy lifting or exercise to get the blood pumping through our muscles. If our bodies are cold and we go out in the cold, there is a higher possibility of straining our muscles. Here are some exercises you can do to warm up before going outside:</p> <ul> <li>Standing lumbar extension: with hands behind your low back, lean back as far as you can to stretch your back ten times.</li> <li>Standing hamstring stretch: with legs straight, bend over and reach towards your toes, hold for thirty seconds</li> <li>Neck stretches: bring your ear towards your shoulder and hold for 30 seconds. Repeat to the opposite side.</li> <li>Arm circles: arms out to the side and make small and big circles, go clockwise and counterclockwise ten times each.</li> <li>Squats: bend your knees and pretend like you are sitting in a chair, then stand up. Repeat ten times.</li> </ul> <p><img decoding="async" class="aligncenter" src="https://wwspt.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/Snow-Shovel.jpg" alt="" /></p> <p>Lift with your legs!</p> <p>I am sure you have heard the expression “lift with your legs and not your back.” By using your legs and keeping your core tight, you are stabilizing your spine and using the bigger muscles in your legs, which will less likely cause injury. This is true for shoveling. The weight of the shovel plus packed in the snow on top is heavier than we expect. The act of moving and lifting should be coming from our legs. If you are bending over with your back and lifting the shovel, you are using your back muscles and are more likely to pull a muscle and experience pain. Getting your body behind the shovel and using the power of your legs to shovel the snow will help you get the job done.</p> <p>No twisting!</p> <p>When you throw the snow off to the side, make sure you don’t twist your back. Twisting is often the cause for back issues; it causes a lot of tension and pressure on your spine and makes it more prone to injury. You should move your whole body as a unit. Take small steps to turn your whole body while keeping the shovel close to your body to move the snow where you need it.</p> <p>Take breaks!</p> <p>I know it’s cold outside and you want to get the job done as quickly as you can, but it is important to give your body a break. Unless you are a landscaper, shoveling is not an activity you are doing year-round. Like with any activity, you want to build up your strength and endurance. Your body also likes movement and being in one position or repeating a movement over and over again can make it stiffer. So the process of shoveling can make your body stiffer and cause some pain. If you stop periodically to do one of the stretches as advised above you can avoid potential pain and soreness.</p> <p> </p> <p>If you follow these tips, you can stay pain-free for the cold days ahead. However, if you find yourself hurting, call us at WWSPT, 215-489-3234, and we can help you through your recovery.</p> <p>Dr. Amanda Nguyen PT DPT</p> <p>The post <a href="https://wwspt.com/winter-is-here/">WINTER IS HERE!!!!</a> appeared first on <a href="https://wwspt.com">WWSPT.Com</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://wwspt.com/winter-is-here/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">3312</post-id> </item> <item> <title>Battling an Eating Disorder? Your Physical Therapist Can Help!</title> <link>https://wwspt.com/battling-an-eating-disorder-your-physical-therapist-can-help/</link> <comments>https://wwspt.com/battling-an-eating-disorder-your-physical-therapist-can-help/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Amanda Nguyen PT, DPT]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Wed, 26 May 2021 18:09:35 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Blog]]></category> <category><![CDATA[eating disorder]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Exercise]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Fitness]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Food]]></category> <category><![CDATA[H2O]]></category> <category><![CDATA[mental health]]></category> <category><![CDATA[mental illness]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Stress and trauma]]></category> <category><![CDATA[stress management]]></category> <category><![CDATA[WWS Physical Therapy and Vestibular Rehabilitation]]></category> <category><![CDATA[WWSPT]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://wwspt.com/?p=3082</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>With the highest mortality rate of any mental illness, with the exception of opioid overdose, eating disorders affect over 30 million Americans, and they do not discriminate. They affect people of all races, ethnic groups, ages, genders, and body sizes. They are very serious mental illnesses that manifest into physical ones and represent a complex […]</p> <p>The post <a href="https://wwspt.com/battling-an-eating-disorder-your-physical-therapist-can-help/">Battling an Eating Disorder? Your Physical Therapist Can Help!</a> appeared first on <a href="https://wwspt.com">WWSPT.Com</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>With the highest mortality rate of any mental illness, with the exception of opioid overdose, eating disorders affect over 30 million Americans, and they do not discriminate. They affect people of all races, ethnic groups, ages, genders, and body sizes. They are very serious mental illnesses that manifest into physical ones and represent a complex interplay between environment, personality, and genetics. The most common eating disorders in the U.S are binge eating disorder, anorexia nervosa, and bulimia nervosa. However, there are numerous categories and types of eating disorders out there, and although very serious illnesses, they are very treatable.</p> <p> </p> <p>Eating disorders can have severe and chronic consequences that last a lifetime. Despite the variety, all types of eating disorders share behaviors that can cause gastrointestinal disease, cardiovascular disease, bone and tissue damage, and multiorgan system failure. But with thorough and comprehensive treatment, these can be avoided! Physical therapy can help with the recovery process.</p> <p> </p> <p>Physical therapists are movement and health experts; they are most knowledgeable on the prescription of exercise for various conditions. We determine what muscles and joints are affected and how it contributes to your overall movement, or your activities and hobbies. We prescribe exercises to improve your strength, flexibility, and movement to get you back to the things you want to do. As Doctors of Physical Therapy, we have proven ourselves to be very effective and successful in treating various limitations and pains, often due to surgical procedures, neurological and cardiac conditions, and just everyday life.</p> <p><img decoding="async" class="aligncenter" src="https://wwspt.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/PT-gen.png" alt="" /></p> <p style="text-align: left;">Those with eating disorders may have poor body awareness during physical activity and physical therapists have a key role in providing education about correct exercise dosing, stress management, and can help strengthen musculoskeletal and cardiovascular systems to prevent further health consequences.</p> <p>Physical therapists are not the lead medical professional in treating eating disorders, however, they can play a very critical role in treatment. Research suggests an early diagnosis and interprofessional approach is the most successful in treating eating disorders and preventing further negative health consequences. A physical therapist can work alongside a physician and a psychiatrist to establish a preventive and holistic exercise plan. They have the ability to follow a client until healthier habits, both physically and mentally, are established.</p> <p> </p> <p>If you are battling an eating disorder or have concerns about your relationship with food, please know you are not alone. It is never too late to seek assistance. Please contact your physician and/or psychiatrist and have a conversation with your physical therapist.</p> <p>Visit <a href="https://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org/">National Eating Disorders, NEDA,</a> for more information.</p> <p>Amanda Nguyen, DPT and Alexa Altland, DPT</p> <p>The post <a href="https://wwspt.com/battling-an-eating-disorder-your-physical-therapist-can-help/">Battling an Eating Disorder? Your Physical Therapist Can Help!</a> appeared first on <a href="https://wwspt.com">WWSPT.Com</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://wwspt.com/battling-an-eating-disorder-your-physical-therapist-can-help/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">3082</post-id> </item> <item> <title>Eyes Glued to the Screen and It Hurts?</title> <link>https://wwspt.com/eyes-glued-to-the-screen-and-it-hurts-what-can-i-do-2/</link> <comments>https://wwspt.com/eyes-glued-to-the-screen-and-it-hurts-what-can-i-do-2/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Amanda Nguyen PT, DPT]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Wed, 03 Feb 2021 19:18:49 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Blog]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Eye Strain]]></category> <category><![CDATA[F.lux app]]></category> <category><![CDATA[fatigue]]></category> <category><![CDATA[headache]]></category> <category><![CDATA[joints]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Migraines]]></category> <category><![CDATA[musculoskeletal pain]]></category> <category><![CDATA[neck pain]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Orthopedic Rehabilitation]]></category> <category><![CDATA[orthopedic treatment]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Physical Therapy]]></category> <category><![CDATA[posture]]></category> <category><![CDATA[PT Treatments]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Vestibular Rehabilitation]]></category> <category><![CDATA[WWS Physical Therapy and Vestibular Rehabilitation]]></category> <category><![CDATA[WWSPT]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://wwspt.com/?p=3022</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>How Do You Make Working on the Computer Less Stressful on Your Body? We are certainly living in the digital age now that many of us are either working from home or attending classes online. With the increased screen time, you may be experiencing more eye strain, fatigue, headaches, and migraines which can make it […]</p> <p>The post <a href="https://wwspt.com/eyes-glued-to-the-screen-and-it-hurts-what-can-i-do-2/">Eyes Glued to the Screen and It Hurts?</a> appeared first on <a href="https://wwspt.com">WWSPT.Com</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>How Do You Make Working on the Computer Less Stressful on Your Body?</p> <p>We are certainly living in the digital age now that many of us are either working from home or attending classes online. With the increased screen time, you may be experiencing more eye strain, fatigue, headaches, and migraines which can make it difficult to focus and complete your work. You may be experiencing more neck, shoulder, and back pain from prolonged sitting in an unfamiliar environment. So what can you do to make sitting and looking at a screen for over 8 hours a day less taxing on your eyes and body? Read on for some suggestions and information about how physical therapy can help.</p> <p>Staring at the computer for an extended period of time leads to eye strain, headaches, or even migraines. Focusing on and reading small text against a bright screen requires your eyes and brain to work harder. By reducing brightness or increasing the font size, you can successfully reduce some of the strain on your eyes. Many devices have the ability to be connected to bigger monitors or TVs to enlarge the text. You could also try zooming in on the page to magnify it.</p> <p><img decoding="async" class="aligncenter" src="https://wwspt.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Eye-Strain.png" alt="" /></p> <p> </p> <p>If you feel you need additional measures, you could invest in some blue light glasses. The blue tint of the glasses makes the screen less bright and therefore less stressful on your eyes. There is also a free app called f.lux that will add blue and yellow tints on your screen and dim the background depending upon the time of day.</p> <p>Prolonged sitting in your work-from-home setup can also contribute to increased neck and back pain. Physical therapists are experts in movement and posture. We assess how your body is positioned both at rest and with movement, to identify which muscles may need to be stretched or strengthened to help them work best.</p> <p>Many people sit at a desk with rounded back and shoulders, and their head protruding forward towards the screen. Being in this position for an entire workday will cause trouble for joints and muscles. Over time, the joints and muscles will start to prefer those poor posture positions. Then, when we have to stand, walk, or do other activities not related to sitting at a computer, there is more stress on muscles and joints which can lead to discomfort or pain in the neck and back. The strain put on the neck can also contribute to headaches. Using a standing desk is an effective way to break up a full day of sitting. When setting up a standing desk, ensure your screen is at eye level and your arms are at a 90-degree angle with your mouse and keyboard.</p> <p>The environment you are sitting in is an important factor too. If you are in a distracting environment, it may be more difficult to focus, so your eyes and brain are working harder than they should be. Find a quiet place in your house to work or consider noise-canceling headphones to eliminate distractions. Avoid sitting by the window to avoid potential glare on the screen as well.</p> <p>Taking breaks during the day is also important to help relieve the stress on your eyes and the work on your brain. Generally speaking, you should not be sitting for more than 20 to 30 minutes at a time. There is the 20- 20-20 rule: after 20 minutes of looking at the screen, take a 20-second break looking 20 feet away in front of you.</p> <p>All these adjustments are particularly important for people recovering from a concussion or those who are prone to migraines. When a brain injury occurs, it can affect the ability of your eyes and brain to coordinate during certain tasks like reading, focusing, and scrolling. Migraines can be triggered by brightness, scrolling, and poor posture. Many people have found that more screen time has led to an increase in the frequency and intensity of their migraines.</p> <p>In addition to the suggestions mentioned above, people with a history of concussion and/or migraines may need some exercises to improve eye and brain coordination. Physical therapists who specialize in Vestibular Rehabilitation can assess any deficits in your eye/brain efficiency and prescribe exercises to promote improved tolerance to computer work.</p> <p>Physical therapists can also address the ergonomics of your work environment as well as your posture to minimize pain and headaches. We will give you exercises to help counteract the effects of prolonged sitting and optimize muscle strength and flexibility. We may also use hands-on techniques to help relieve pain more quickly.</p> <p><img decoding="async" class="aligncenter" src="https://wwspt.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/WWSPT-Services.png" alt="" /></p> <p>At WWS Physical Therapy, we are experts in identifying orthopedic, concussion, and vestibular deficits. We will provide education and personalized exercises on how to improve your quality of life. Do not wait any longer. <a href="https://wwspt.com/contact/">Contact us</a> if you need help!</p> <p> </p> <p>Dr. Amanda Nguyen, PT, DPT,</p> <p>WWS Physical Therapy and Vestibular Rehabilitation<br /> Doylestown, PA.,</p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p>The post <a href="https://wwspt.com/eyes-glued-to-the-screen-and-it-hurts-what-can-i-do-2/">Eyes Glued to the Screen and It Hurts?</a> appeared first on <a href="https://wwspt.com">WWSPT.Com</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://wwspt.com/eyes-glued-to-the-screen-and-it-hurts-what-can-i-do-2/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">3022</post-id> </item> </channel> </rss>