Louisiana turned into a winter wonderland with a record 10 inches of snow! ❄️ We hope everyone stayed safe while enjoying the rare snowy magic. We can’t wait to see you back in the clinic soon!
This Valentine’s Day, Fall in Love with Fall Prevention
At Movement Specialists Physical Therapy, we often work with couples who have been together for decades. They’ve shared every stage of their lives and still have each other as they move into their golden years. Aging brings new challenges, but these couples are excited to face them together!
One of those challenges, of course, is falling. Falls are a significant source of injury for adults over 65, and many people become fearful of falling as they get older, which means they’re less likely to be physically active.
The good news is that you can address your fall risk with our fall prevention services. If you’re an older adult, we encourage you and your partner to fall in love with fall prevention this February. By working with our physical therapists, you can ensure you and your sweetheart stay active and healthy – even if you aren’t as young as you used to be!
Understanding You and Your Loved One’s Fall Risks
The first step in preventing falls is understanding your fall risk. Everyone’s risk is different, as no single factor determines your likelihood of a fall; instead, it’s a complex blend of age, lifestyle choices, and health conditions.
Consider taking some time with your loved one this February to review each other’s fall risks. Go through this checklist together; the more factors apply, the higher your risk – and the more you’ll benefit from fall prevention at Movement Specialists Physical Therapy.
Fall Risk Checklist
- Advanced age (60 years or older)
- Being female (women are more likely to suffer falls than men)
- Joint pain, including from arthritis
- Dizziness or vertigo (a spinning sensation)
- Decline in vision or hearing
- Sedentary lifestyle
- Impaired balance or gait
- Weakness in the lower body
- Use of medications that can cause dizziness or balance issues
- Neurological disorders such as Parkinson’s disease or Alzheimer’s
- Stroke survivor
- A history of falls
Fall Prevention Programs: What to Expect
Are you and your partner ready to start addressing your fall risk together? Our team of physical therapists is here to help!
Our fall prevention programs focus on improving mobility, balance, and overall strength, with each plan tailored to your unique needs. Here’s a general overview of what you can expect:
A Comprehensive Assessment
We’ll begin with an in-depth evaluation of your strength, mobility, balance, and walking patterns. We’ll also take a health history to determine if your medication or current conditions might increase your risk.
A Personalized Exercise Plan
Tailored exercises are a big part of our fall prevention programs. These generally include the following:
- Strength training, particularly in the legs and core, enhances stability and balance to help keep you on your feet.
- Balance training features exercises that specifically target coordination and stability.
- Functional exercises mimic daily activities, like getting out of a chair or climbing stairs, to improve mobility and confidence.
Gait Training
Your gait is your particular way of walking. If it’s impaired, you’re more likely to suffer a fall. We can work with you to address any gait issues. In some cases, we may guide you in using assistive devices such as canes or walkers.
Home Modifications
Several simple modifications, such as removing throw rugs, installing handrails, and improving lighting, can make your home safer for you and your partner. We’ll help you identify which factors can improve your home situation so you can work with your loved one to make your home safer for both of you.
Regular Exercise Program
Staying active plays a significant role in keeping you from a fall. We’ll help you develop an at-home exercise program you and your sweetie can do together, such as evening walks, morning Tai Chi, or modified dance lessons.
Discover the Benefits of Fall Prevention
Our fall prevention programs aren’t just about safety–they’re also about enhancing the quality of life for you and your loved one. Participating in a fall prevention program with your lifelong valentine will help both of you restore confidence, mobility, and independence so you can enjoy your sunset years together.
If you’re ready to take steps toward better balance and stability, schedule an initial assessment with the team at Movement Specialists Physical Therapy. Together, you and your partner can fall in love with fall prevention.
Congratulations AJ & Elise
Congratulations to Elise and AJ, two of our incredible DPTs here at Movement Specialist Physical Therapy, on tying the knot! We are thrilled to celebrate this exciting milestone with them and wish them a lifetime of love, laughter, and happiness. If you see them around the clinic, be sure to share your warm congratulations with the newlyweds!
Tips for A Heart-Healthy Valentine’s Day!
This year, don’t forget the most important Valentine of all: your heart! With February being the month of love and American Heart Month, here are a few tips to combine them into one fabulous celebration:
- Try a heart-healthy treat: Pomegranate seeds, good dark chocolate, and sweet strawberries are all delicious alternatives to candy hearts.
- Take a ballroom dance class with your sweetheart: Nothing’s more romantic than a sweeping waltz or sultry tango. But ballroom dancing is also a great cardio workout — making it the perfect date night for American Heart Month!
- Sink into a relaxing bubble bath: Stress contributes to cardiovascular disease, so this month, set aside time to rest and relax with a bubble bath. Dim the lights, burn a few candles, and settle down with your favorite romantic read.
Want more healthy heart tips this February — or any month of the year? Schedule an appointment with Movement Specialists Physical Therapy!
Feel Better by Eating Better!
Anti-Inflammatory Ginger & Turmeric Carrot Soup
This delicious ginger and turmeric carrot soup is as comforting as it is healing. Packed with strong flavors like garlic, fennel, and ginger, and full of anti-inflammatory ingredients, this is the perfect winter soup.
Directions: Heat the olive oil in a large dutch oven or saucepan. Add the fennel, leeks, carrots, and squash. Sauté for 3-5 minutes until the veggies start to soften. Add the garlic, ginger, turmeric, salt, and pepper, and sauté for a few more minutes. Add the broth and coconut milk. Bring the mixture to a boil, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes. Once the soup is cooked, add it to a blender and blend until creamy. You could also use an immersion blender. Taste and adjust the seasonings to your taste. Serve immediately with a dollop of coconut yogurt and enjoy!
https://www.simplyquinoa.com/anti-inflammatory-ginger-turmeric-carrot-soup
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 leek, cleaned and sliced
- 1 cup chopped fennel bulb (1 small head)
- 3 cups chopped carrots
- 1 cup chopped butternut squash (or more carrots)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger (about a 2-inch piece)
- 1 tablespoon turmeric powder
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 3 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
- 1 can lite coconut milk (14.5 ounces)
Exercise of the Month
Figure 4 Stretch
Lie on your back with your knees bent, feet flat, and in line with your hips. Bring either ankle to the opposite knee forming a figure four (i.e. cross your legs). Reach through your bent knee and grasp the back of the leg still on the ground and pull it towards your chest. You should feel the stretch in your buttocks. Keep your head and neck relaxed and hold the position. Repeat for both sides.
Did You Know You Can See a Physical Therapist Without a Referral?
Not everyone knows you can go directly to your physical therapist if you are dealing with pain or an injury. It doesn’t matter if you’re dealing with an old or new problem. In all 50 states, you can schedule a visit with one of our therapists to get help sooner than later.
Direct Access is all about having the freedom to make your own decisions without being bound by outdated rules. It allows you to be in charge of your healthcare so you can focus on your recovery instead of waiting for another appointment to get you the help you need today!
Direct Access also helps you save money, schedule when you want, and speeds up your recovery so you can get relief and get back to doing what you love. If you have questions about Direct Access or would like to schedule an appointment with a physical therapist, contact Movement Specialists Physical Therapy now!
Let’s Get You Better ASAP!
Don’t let pain dictate your life. Take the first step towards reclaiming your mobility and well-being with our expert support. Start your journey to a healthier you today.
