Back Pain, Exercise, Resources, Sports Medicine marketing

Preventative Physical Therapy – Why?

When considering the world of physical therapy (PT), many think it is a solution primarily for athletes or those recovering from surgeries or significant injuries. However, this perception barely scratches the surface. Preventative Physical Therapy is essential for people of all walks of life and can be an alternative to medications for specific conditions.

Preventative Physical Therapy can lower patient treatment costs by 72%. (TheGoodBody.Com)

What is Preventative Physical Therapy, and how can it improve or maintain a healthy lifestyle? This blog will introduce you to the therapy and provide eight benefits.

What is Preventative Physical Therapy?

PT, a branch of rehabilitative healthcare, employs trained professionals who use specialized equipment and tailored exercise regimes to address abnormal physical functions. These professionals can guide patients in maximizing mobility, managing pain, dealing with chronic conditions, avoiding surgeries, and heavy reliance on prescription drugs.

Preventative physical therapy distinguishes itself as a proactive approach. This strategy involves offering patients techniques and exercises to prevent injuries and discomfort. Preventative PT ensures these issues don't escalate into more significant complications by strengthening the body, enhancing mobility, and detecting potential problem areas.

Often, the Mckenzie Method of physical therapy is considered preventative physical therapy. The Therapy Network has McKenzie Method licensed providers and incorporates the method's four steps into a comprehensive therapy plan.

The Multifaceted Benefits of Preventative Physical Therapy

We now have your attention with the prospect of lowering your medical costs. But what are some of the direct benefits of Preventative Physical Therapy? Here are eight benefits that can help every patient:

Pain Management: Through therapeutic exercises, pain can be significantly reduced or managed, decreasing the risk of its return.

Reduced Dependence on Drugs: Managing or diminishing pain can lessen the need for specific medications, such as opioids.

Avoidance of Surgery: In cases where PT addresses pain or injury effectively, surgeries may become unnecessary.

Improved Mobility: Age is just a number! PT exercises can rejuvenate movement capabilities for individuals across all age groups.

Injury Prevention: Knowledgeable physical therapists can craft prevention exercises tailored to high-risk activities, ensuring maximum safety.

Fall Prevention: Improve balance and prevent potential falls with specific PT exercises.

Managing Age-Related Issues: Treat conditions like arthritis or osteoporosis through PT techniques.

Cardiac and Pulmonary Health: PT can significantly improve the quality of life for those with heart and lung-related conditions.

Is investing time in Preventative Physical Therapy worth it? For many, the answer is a resounding yes, especially considering the long-term benefits and the potential to avoid painful, costly, and debilitating health issues.

Preventative Physical Therapy at The Therapy Network

COASTAL VIRGINIA'S LEADER IN SPECIALTY PHYSICAL THERAPY

The Therapy Network has been a beacon of physical therapy excellence in Hampton Roads, Virginia, for over three decades. Established in 1987, it has continuously revolutionized PT in the region with a patient-centric approach. Our dedicated clinics across Hampton Roads provide flexible hours, catering to the bustling schedules of our patrons. With services available from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m., we strive to accommodate all.

For those seeking our expert services, TheTherapyNetwork.com provides all the necessary details. Remarkably, a physician's referral isn't mandatory to initiate your physical therapy plan with us, thanks to Direct Access. Direct Access in Virginia enables individuals to start a therapeutic journey overseen by our licensed professionals immediately.

What sets The Therapy Network apart is our commitment to excellence and specialization. Each of our clinics proudly hosts therapists trained in Preventative Physical Therapy. We are continuously pushing boundaries to offer top-tier care for our valued patients. Schedule an appointment today.

kayaks, beach, pickle ball, yoga on beach

Exercise, Resources, Walking marketing

Physical Therapy Promotes an Active Lifestyle in Coastal Virginia

Living in the scenic coastal areas of Virginia provides many opportunities to engage in outdoor activities like pickleball, kayaking, beach walks, and golf. But what if physical limitations are keeping you from thoroughly enjoying these hobbies? This is where physical therapy can make all the difference. Physical therapy promotes an active lifestyle, and blogs by the Therapy Network team that provide physical therapy tips for outdoor hobbies are always popular. In this blog, we combined some of our top tips for hobbies enjoyed in the Hampton Roads region.

Physical Therapy Promotes Daily Lifestyle & Hobby Enjoyment

We often take our physical abilities for granted until they are compromised. Struggles with mobility, balance, or strength can hinder us from enjoying our favorite activities. But with physical therapy, you can improve these aspects and return to your active lifestyle more quickly than expected.

Did You Know you do NOT need a physician's referral to start your physical therapy journey? Thanks to Virginia's Direct Access law, you can directly consult with our licensed physical therapists at The Therapy Network. Keep reading for information and a link to book your first appointment.

Whether you enjoy pickleball, kayaking, golf, or just walking on the beach…Physical therapy promotes an active lifestyle, and The Therapy Network is here to provide services and tips.

5 Ways to Improve Your Pickleball Game with Physical Therapy

Pickleball is increasingly popular, but like any sport, it comes with the risk of injury. Physical Therapy promotes an active lifestyle by rehabilitating you post-injury and helping you prevent future injuries. Here are some ways physical therapy can boost your pickleball game:

1. Injury Prevention: Therapists can identify weaknesses that might lead you to common pickleball injuries.

2. Strength and Conditioning: Target specific muscle groups used in pickleball to improve your game.

3. Flexibility and Range of Motion: Therapists will recommend exercises to keep your joints agile.

4. Balance and Coordination: Improve your footwork and reaction time on the court.

5. Injury Management: If you're already recovering from an injury, tailored physical therapy can speed up your recovery.

Visit our free information library and read about physical therapy's benefits for pickleball players.

Walking on the Beach in Coastal Virginia

There's no better feeling than walking along the Virginia Beach Boardwalk or the soft sands of a secluded beach. Physical Therapy promotes an active lifestyle that makes this simple joy accessible. Follow these tips when embarking on a beach walk:

1. Start Slow: Sandy terrains are challenging. Start with short distances.

2. Wear Appropriate Footwear: Opt for sturdy sandals or shoes that offer support.

3. Walk at Low Tide: It's easier and better for your body alignment.

"The benefits of walking are numerous, but they're best-enjoyed pain-free. Physical therapy can help ensure that you can walk as far and as long as you want, whenever you want.”—American Physical Therapy Association.

If walking on the beach becomes painful, The Therapy Network can help diagnose the issue and offer a solution. Read our full blog, “When Walking on the Beach is Painful.”

The Link Between Physical Therapy and a Better Golf Game

Before teeing off in any scenic golf courses across Norfolk, Virginia Beach, or Chesapeake, consider how physical therapy can help improve your game and reduce your pain.

1. Injury Evaluation and Treatment: Therapists can pinpoint the causes of your discomfort and create a treatment plan.

2. Pre-Golf Warm-Up: Learn about essential stretches and exercises.

3. Muscle and Mobility: Improve your swing and reduce the chance of injuries.

4. Injury Prevention Plan: A preventive approach can save you from long-term issues.

If you are a golfer, consider reading our blog with additional tips. Book your session at The Therapy Network to help you get the most out of your golf rounds.

Enjoy Kayaking in Coastal Virginia with the Help of Physical Therapy

Kayaking is a fantastic way to explore the waters of coastal Virginia, but preparing your body for the rigorous paddling is crucial.

Kayaking In Virginia Beach, VA — Kayaking in Virginia Beach, VA

1. Shoulder Strength: Enhance the muscle strength needed for effective paddling.

2. Elbow and Wrist Care: Physical therapy can prevent overuse injuries.

3. Muscle Imbalance: Target stabilizing muscles to avoid injury.

4. Core Fitness: A strong core is essential for kayaking.

If you enjoy paddle sports, read our latest blog about the benefits of physical therapy for kayakers. (Need link to latest blog here)

How Can The Therapy Network Help?

Physical Therapy promotes an active lifestyle that keeps you in shape and prevents injuries, ensuring you can continue enjoying all the outdoor activities that coastal Virginia offers. You do not need a physician's referral to start your journey to recovery or fitness. One is near your home or workplace, with six locations in the Hampton Roads area.

Book an appointment today and continue enjoying all your favorite hobbies in Virginia.

Aqua Therapy, Back Pain, Chronic Pain, Exercise, Rheumatoid Arthritis marketing

Does Aquatic Therapy Promote Recovery and Wellness?

If you seek an effective way to recover from an injury or prevent future ones, look no further than Aquatic Therapy. The Therapy Network in coastal Virginia offers Aquatic Therapy sessions that can be your ticket to improved well-being and an active lifestyle.

What is Aquatic Therapy?

Simply, it involves personalized, hands-on therapy techniques and specific body movements designed for water use. How do Aquatic Therapy exercises promote recovery and wellness?

Imagine exercising in an environment where gravity's effects are reduced, and joint strain is minimized. Water provides natural buoyancy, making recovery and wellness, with Aquatic Therapy an ideal choice for rehabilitation after an illness or injury.

Your Therapy Network therapist will use specially designed exercise equipment and aids like floats and balls to assist you during your sessions. Through targeted exercises and movements, you will experience the benefits of this low-impact yet highly efficient form of Therapy.

7 Benefits of Pool Exercise

Let’s take a closer look at the remarkable benefits of Aquatic Therapy and how it promotes recovery and wellness. Here are seven of the top benefits:

Lowers Fall Risk: If you are concerned about balance and coordination issues, Aquatic Therapy is a game-changer. In a safe and supportive aquatic environment, you will regain confidence and reduce the risk of falls by improving these skills.

Helps with Balance and Coordination: Whether recovering from an injury, dealing with a chronic condition, or simply looking to enhance performance, aquatic therapy can help improve your balance and coordination—the resistance provided by water challenges your muscles, enhancing your overall stability.

Reduced Stress on Joints and Bones: Water's buoyancy provides a unique advantage by alleviating stress on your joints and bones. The buoyancy makes Aquatic Exercise an excellent choice for individuals with arthritis, back pain, or orthopedic injuries. By reducing the strain on these areas, you can engage in rehabilitation exercises comfortably and with less pain.

Builds Muscle Strength and Endurance: Water is hundreds of times more resistive than air, making it ideal for building strength and endurance. Your Therapy Network therapist will guide you toward improved muscle tone through exercises.

Increases Aerobic Capacity: Water-based exercises elevate your heart rate and enhance your cardiovascular fitness. Aquatic Therapy offers an enjoyable and effective way to improve your aerobic capacity without placing excessive stress on your joints.

Improves Joint Flexibility: Aquatic Therapy can help you regain and improve flexibility if you struggle with limited joint mobility. The water's resistance enables you to move your joints through a greater range of motion, restoring joint function and reducing stiffness.

Reduces Swelling: Aquatic Therapy can effectively reduce swelling in injured or inflamed areas. The pressure exerted by the water helps to improve circulation, promoting healing.

As a bonus, can Aquatic Therapy help you lose weight? "Aquatics therapy is considered superior to traditional forms of physical exercise for individuals who are overweight and obese. When coupled with a new diet, aquatics therapy can help people lose weight safely and effectively.”—ClassicRehabilitation.com

Aquatic Therapy has significant benefits, but how else does it promote recovery and wellness? What conditions can benefit from Aquatic Therapy?

Conditions that Benefit from Aquatic Exercise

Now that you are familiar with the benefits of Aquatic Therapy, you may wonder which conditions can benefit from this physical therapy approach. Aquatic Physical Therapy has been successfully used to treat a wide variety of conditions, including:

Arthritis

Back Pain

Balance Disorder

Chronic Pain

Relief from Diabetes Symptoms

Fibromyalgia

Joint Pain

Multiple Sclerosis

Orthopedic or Sports Injuries

Post-Operative Conditions

Stroke

Tendinitis

With the list of benefits and conditions improved with Aquatic Therapeutic Exercise, we hope that we have answered the question, “Does aquatic therapy promote recovery and wellness?”

Aquatic Therapy at The Therapy Network

The Therapy Network is here to support you on your journey to recovery and optimal health. Our team of skilled physical therapists specializes in customizing your PT journey and will guide you every step of the way.

Sun Safety: 6 Rules for Basking In Health

If there’s one thing we cherish in Virginia Beach, Norfolk, and Chesapeake, it's our sunny and fun coastal environment. It provides a natural playground for an active lifestyle. However, as we enjoy the great outdoors, it's essential to remain mindful of the health implications of exposure to the hot summer sun in Virginia. In this blog, you will find sun safety tips for this summer—or any season.

Physical therapy provides a powerful tool for supporting your body. It helps you heal, maintain strength and stay limber. The key to successful treatment isn't just diligent attendance at sessions at The Therapy Network—it's also incorporating the principles learned at our centers into your everyday life.

Outdoor activity promotes healthier living while building resistance against injury. But how do we balance this with being sun-smart?

1. Striking a Balance with Sun Safety: The Dawn and Dusk Advantage

One sun safety tip is moving in the morning and evening when the Virginia sun is less intense.

An early morning walk along the Virginia Beach Boardwalk or a sunset yoga session in First Landing State Park can be excellent options. Not only will you avoid the peak sun exposure and the associated risks, but you'll also find these times of day provide a less-crowded or tranquil atmosphere.

Another sun safety tip is to choose the correct location. The location can further limit your sun exposure. Look for shady areas for your outdoor activities, such as in the shade in Red Wing Park, or consider taking advantage of the water. Aquatic exercises in a pool are an effective way to exercise while staying cool and a great sun safety tip.

2. Dressing for Sun Safety: UPF Rated Clothing

Did you know there's more to sun protection than slathering on sunscreen?

Remember also to keep your clothing light. Not only in color—light colors reflect the sun's rays more efficiently—but also in weight. The lighter the clothing, the less heat it retains, aiding your body’s natural cooling mechanisms.

Use UPF (Ultraviolet Protective Factor) rated sun-protective clothing. These garments are designed to block a significant amount of harmful UV radiation, providing a physical barrier between your skin and the sun.

3. The Secret Weapon: Sunscreen

A blog about sun safety tips would only be complete with a discussion on sunscreen. While clothing can protect covered areas, exposed skin is still vulnerable. This is where sunscreen protection steps in. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or more before you venture into the Virginia Beach region. Remember to reapply at least every two hours.

Wearing sunscreen is one of the best — and easiest — ways to protect your skin’s appearance and health at any age. Used regularly, sunscreen helps prevent sunburn, skin cancer, and premature aging. (Hopkins Medicine on Sunscreen)

Making sunscreen a staple in your outdoor routine in Virginia Beach, Chesapeake, and Norfolk is an easy yet effective step towards being sun-smart.

4. Quenching Thirst: Stay Hydrated, Stay Healthy

An active lifestyle, particularly in the hot summer sun, demands hydration. But be smart about Sun Safety and what and how much you drink. Water remains your best pick, providing pure hydration without any additives.

Sports drinks can be helpful during intense exercise. You should be wary of those high in sugar, though. Remember, your drink choice should be replenishing your body, not working against a healthy lifestyle.

How Much Water Do You Need To Be Sun Safe? Calculate below:

Water Intake Calculator

Water Intake Calculator by GIGAcalculator.com

5. Embrace the Water: Diving into Summer Activities

Here is a sun safety tip that is unique to our coastal community. Virginia Beach and the surrounding areas offer plenty of opportunities for water sports. Whether kayaking in Back Bay, surfing, or paddleboarding along the Chesapeake Bay, these activities provide a refreshing way to stay active while keeping cool in the summer heat.

6. Know Your Limits: Sensible Sun Safety and Heat Exposure

Lastly, remember to listen to your body. An active lifestyle and physical therapy aim to enhance your well-being. A sun safety tip is not to push your limits excessively.

If the Virginia sun is particularly fierce or you feel fatigued, seek shelter and cool down.

Healthy Outdoor Activities

Healthy outdoor activities under the Virginia sun can be a cornerstone of your physical therapy journey and broader lifestyle. By being sun-smart and following the six sun safety tips from the team at The Therapy Network, you can safely enjoy the benefits of an outdoor lifestyle.
In Hampton Roads, we can have everything: the sun, the sea, the physical strength to exercise, and safety. Let's make the most of it.

family paddle board sun safety — Enjoying a day in the sun

For an outdoor, active lifestyle, you may also enjoy reading blogs from our library. Here is just a selection of blogs that cover outdoor activities:

Can Physical Therapy Help Your Pickleball Game?

Exercise at the Beach-5 Fun Ways

Walk Your Way to Health

Physical Therapy for Runners

When Walking on the Beach is Painful

Can Physical Therapy Improve Your Golf Game?

Chronic Pain, Exercise, News, Rheumatoid Arthritis marketing

Optimal Rheumatoid Arthritis Treatment: First Time Exercise Guidelines Highlight Physical Therapy as Key

Rheumatoid Arthritis and Physical Therapy

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease that causes inflammation, pain, and joint damage. While antirheumatic drugs are the primary treatment for RA, the American College of Rheumatology (ACR) has recently released its first-ever guidelines recommending the integration of exercise, rehabilitation, diet, and additional integrative interventions into Rheumatoid Arthritis Treatment. These guidelines emphasize the crucial role of physical therapists and occupational therapists in a multidisciplinary treatment team. This blog post will explore the key recommendations outlined in the guidelines and the importance of physical therapy in the management of RA.

Development of the Rheumatoid Arthritis and Physical Therapy Guidelines

The development of the guidelines involved a comprehensive process that included a systematic review of the research literature, input from a panel of patients with RA, and collaboration with experts in the field. A team of APTA (American Physical Therapy Association) members actively participated in the development of the guidelines, ensuring that the perspectives of physical therapists were incorporated.

PT Exercise Recommendations for Rheumatoid Arthritis

The guidelines strongly recommend consistent engagement in exercise as a part of Rheumatoid Arthritis Treatment. The specific type, frequency, intensity, and duration of exercise should be tailored to each individual's needs and goals. While more research is needed to determine the most effective exercise approaches, physical therapists play a vital role in guiding patients in identifying the exercises and treatments that best suit their unique circumstances.

female physical therapist treating patient

The guidelines also provide conditional recommendations for aerobic, aquatic, resistance, and mind-body exercises, such as Tai Chi or yoga, over no exercise. These recommendations are supported by varying levels of evidence certainty, ranging from low to very low certainty.

Rehabilitation Recommendations

Participation in comprehensive physical therapy and occupational therapy is strongly recommended throughout the course of RA. Early referral to these therapies is encouraged to ensure that interventions can be tailored to each patient's specific needs. The guidelines also provide additional recommendations for hand therapy, splinting, orthoses, compression, bracing, joint protection techniques, activity pacing, assistive devices, and vocational rehabilitation.

Diet Recommendations

Based on available evidence, the guidelines conditionally recommend a Mediterranean-style diet for individuals with RA. However, they acknowledge that patient preferences, accessibility, and associated burdens may affect the ability to adhere to this diet. The guidelines also recommend following established dietary recommendations without relying on dietary supplements.

Additional Recommendations

The guidelines include recommendations for and against various interventions. Some of these recommendations include the use of standardized self-management programs, cognitive behavioral therapy, acupuncture, massage therapy, and thermal modalities. They also advise against the use of electrotherapy and chiropractic therapy for individuals with RA.

The Role of Physical Therapy in RA Management

The guidelines highlight the significant role of physical therapy in the management of Rheumatoid Arthritis Treatment. Physical therapists are crucial in guiding patients through exercise programs, rehabilitation interventions, and providing education on joint protection techniques. By integrating physical therapy into routine care, patients with RA can experience improved outcomes and a better quality of life.

Barriers to Implementation

While the guidelines represent an important step in incorporating physical therapy into RA care, several barriers to full implementation exist. These barriers include a lack of knowledge about the importance of exercise among rheumatology providers, limited awareness of the role of physical therapy among individuals with RA, varying levels of expertise among physical therapists in treating RA, payment policy challenges, and a need for further research in this area. Addressing these barriers is essential to ensure the successful implementation of the guidelines and to enhance the role of physical therapy in meeting the healthcare needs of adults with RA.

Conclusion

The release of the first-ever guidelines for exercise, rehabilitation, diet, and additional integrative interventions in the treatment of RA marks a significant milestone in RA management. These guidelines highlight the importance of physical therapy and occupational therapy as essential components of a multidisciplinary treatment team. By following the recommendations outlined in the guidelines, healthcare providers can optimize the care provided to individuals with RA, leading to improved outcomes and a better quality of life.

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