Did You Know? National Physical Therapy Month Edition
October is National Physical Therapy Month, and physical therapists everywhere are jumping at the opportunity to remind people about the important role improved and restored movement has on improving society. “Pain-free movement is crucial to your quality of daily life, your ability to earn a living, your ability to pursue your favorite leisure activities, and […]
Back pain? Studies say get physical therapy first.
During a time when people are growing more skeptical and concerned about the use of prescription pain medications, a recent study gives hope to the 80 percent of Americans who will experience back pain at some point in their lives The study, published by Health Services Research in May of 2018, found that those who first consulted […]
Pools offer both fitness, relief for older adults
While drinking plenty of water is critical to life, health and healing, simply submerging your body in water (i.e., a pool) opens up opportunities for relief and fitness for those who otherwise may have difficulty exercising. This is especially important for aging adults and those with chronic conditions, said Seattle physical therapist Erik Norwood. “When our bodies are submerged in water, […]
Take Steps to Lower the Risk of ACL Injury this Sports Season
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), high school athletes account for about 2 million injuries and around a half-million doctor visits each year. But few of these injuries, says Seattle physical therapist Erik Norwood, are as costly to a student-athlete and his or her family that a torn ACL. “An ACL tear in the knee […]
Bad posture can ‘sneak up’ as shoulder pain as you age
Shoulder pain in older adults often appears suddenly, as if caused by a sudden trauma or injury. But for many, says Seattle physical therapist Erik Norwood, shoulder injuries are often the result of musculoskeletal conditions directly associated with aging and, more specifically, weakening posture. “Some people may think ‘I slept on it wrong’ or ‘I […]