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Breast Cancer Recovery – The Role of Physical Therapy

Why is it important to include physical therapy in your breast cancer recovery plan?

Chemotherapy, surgery, and radiation treatments during breast cancer recovery, may leave patients with side effects. Physical therapy helps reduce bone and joint pain, fatigue, scar tissue formation, Axillary Web Syndrome, and Lymphedema. Some patients even find that PT decreases headaches from chemotherapy.

This blog looks at current breast cancer trends and what to expect when adding physical therapy to your breast cancer recovery plan.

2023 Cancer Statistics in the United States

Breast cancer has always been a poignant issue, but recent statistics have shown a concerning trend. While the overall national cancer rate shows a decline in older Americans, it's surprising that it has been increasing among younger individuals under 50. One might wonder why.

Potential reasons include obesity, alcohol use, smoking, poor sleep, a sedentary lifestyle, and exposure to environmental factors such as pollution and carcinogens. (WebMD.com)

The 2023 breast cancer statistics are alarming, but there is a silver lining. Here are some current statistics:

In this year alone, an estimated 297,790 women in the US will be diagnosed with invasive breast cancer, with another 55,720 diagnosed with non-invasive (in situ) breast cancer. (Cancer.Net)

The stark reality is that 1 in 8 women in the US will face this diagnosis in their lifetime. Yet, amidst these daunting figures, there's a silver lining: early detection and innovative treatments have increased survival rates. In the earliest stages, the 5-year relative survival rate is an impressive 99%. Over 3.8 million breast cancer survivors are testimony to this. (NationalBreastCancer.org)

Recovery rates are increasing, and physical therapy plays a role in a successful health journey.

The Role Physical Therapy Plays in Breast Cancer Recovery

Onacological Physical therapy plays a pivotal role in the recovery after breast cancer surgery. While many patients recover swiftly post-surgery, some may experience difficulty moving their arms, mild weakness, or swelling. Initiating physical therapy soon after surgery can alleviate these symptoms.

Therapy begins with a comprehensive evaluation focusing on pain complaints, range of motion, posture, and joint movement and assessing the healing process. Your specialized physical therapist may even provide strategies to prevent Lymphedema.

A customized breast cancer recovery plan may include all or any of these methods:

Gentle stretching

Massage for better healing

Joint movements and mobility exercises

Posture training

Strength building

Nerve gliding

Home exercises

Especially for breast cancer patients, physical therapy proves invaluable. Breast surgeries, whether lumpectomies or mastectomies, often bring side effects like pain and Lymphedema. Physical therapy exercises restore movement and alleviate pain, particularly in lifting the arm post-surgery. Moreover, it provides potential relief from swelling due to Lymphedema and helps manage pain.

Oncology Physical Therapy at The Therapy Network

Mandi Dowdy, PT, DPT, Cert. MDT of The Therapy Network aptly sums up the essence of oncology physical therapy:

“Living through my mother’s experience with cancer inspired my passion for aiding patients with chemotherapy and radiation-induced fatigue syndrome. Oncology patients witness improved energy, strength, and function when engaged in a structured, positively enforced rehabilitation program. Diverse cancer types, constantly updated information, and innovative treatment plans continuously challenge me to discover novel approaches for excellence in patient care.”

At The Therapy Network, the therapy plan is tailored to the individual, encompassing strength and flexibility exercises, balance techniques, breathing exercises, manual therapy, cardiovascular fitness, nutritional guidance, and job re-training. The ultimate goal is to guide you through your cancer treatment and beyond, ensuring you have the strength and flexibility to enjoy life to the fullest with loved ones.

An outline of the Therapy Network’s oncology physical therapy offering is found on our website.

The Therapy Network in Virginia Beach, Chesapeake, and Norfolk, Virginia

Welcome to The Therapy Network, Virginia Beach's beacon of specialty physical therapy, steadfastly serving the community since 1987.

Always putting patients first, our six clinics across Hampton Roads offer extended hours for the utmost convenience. You can schedule an appointment as early as 6 a.m. or as late as 6 p.m. by calling (757) 496-3700. Furthermore, Direct Access means you don't need a physician's referral to start your therapeutic journey and a breast cancer recovery plan with us.

Our therapists, passionate about their craft, specialize in various fields, ensuring you receive the highest quality care. Join us and experience the pinnacle of physical therapy. Same-day appointments are available at most locations.

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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.

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Prompt Physical Therapy Can Significantly Reduce the Risk of Falling Among Individuals with Dizziness

Preventing Falls in Adults with Dizziness: How Therapy Network Physical Therapy Can Help

Dizziness is a common complaint among adults, and various underlying conditions, including vestibular disorders, can cause it. While dizziness can be troublesome, it often leads to another severe concern—falling. However, a recent study published in JAMA Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery sheds light on a promising avenue for reducing the risk of falls among individuals with dizziness: timely physical therapy (PT) intervention. In this updated blog post, we'll explore how Therapy Network Physical Therapy can play a vital role in helping adults prevent falls.

dizzy fallen elderly woman being helped up by two women

The Study: Unraveling the Link Between Dizziness and Falls
Researchers at the University of Minnesota conducted a cross-sectional study involving 805,454 patients aged 18 years or older who received a new diagnosis of symptomatic dizziness or vestibular disorders. Their goal was to investigate the association between receiving physical therapy and subsequent falls requiring medical care within 12 months of the initial diagnosis.

Key Findings: The Power of Timely PT

The study's findings were both enlightening and encouraging. Here are some of the key takeaways:

Reduced Risk of Falls: Patients who received physical therapy within three months of their initial dizziness diagnosis experienced a significantly reduced risk of falling. The most significant risk reduction occurred within the first three months after PT.

Low PT Utilization: Surprisingly, only 6 percent of the patients in the study received PT within three months of their dizziness diagnosis. This suggests that PT is an underutilized resource in managing dizziness-related falls.

Demographic Differences: The study also identified demographic differences in PT utilization. Women, patients aged 50 to 59, and those with more comorbidities were less likely to receive PT. This highlights the importance of equitable access to PT services.

Therapy Network Physical Therapy: A Key Player in Fall Prevention

Now, let's delve into how Therapy Network Physical Therapy can make a significant impact on preventing falls in adults with dizziness:

Expertise in Vestibular Rehabilitation: Therapy Network Physical Therapy is staffed with skilled physical therapists specializing in vestibular rehabilitation. They have the knowledge and experience to assess and treat individuals with dizziness effectively.

Individualized Treatment Plans: Each patient is unique, and Therapy Network Physical Therapy understands this. They create personalized treatment plans tailored to each individual's specific needs and goals, ensuring that the therapy addresses the root causes of dizziness and balance issues.

Balance and Coordination Training: Physical therapists at Therapy Network are experts in improving balance and coordination. Targeted exercises and therapies can help individuals regain their stability and reduce the risk of falls.

Education and Prevention: Beyond treatment, Therapy Network Physical Therapy focuses on educating patients about fall prevention strategies they can incorporate into their daily lives. This empowerment empowers individuals to take an active role in their own safety.

woman looking a dizzy person fallen at bottom of stairs

If you would like to learn more about Dizziness, Falls and Balance, and more, you can check out the links below:

Epley Maneuver

Vestibular Exercises

Balance and Gait Training

The Importance of Fall Prevention

Falls Prevention - A Necessity For All Of Us

Conclusion: A Step Toward Preventing Falls with Therapy Network Physical Therapy

Dizziness can be debilitating and, if left untreated, can lead to severe consequences such as falls. However, this study provides hope by demonstrating that timely physical therapy interventions can significantly reduce the risk of falling among individuals with dizziness. By seeking the expertise of Therapy Network Physical Therapy and integrating timely PT into managing dizziness, we can enhance the quality of life for countless individuals and prevent potentially life-altering falls. Together, we can progress towards a safer, healthier future for adults with dizziness.

kayaks, beach, pickle ball, yoga on beach

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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.

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School Backpacks and Pain: Protecting the Backs of Our Future

We all want the best for our teens—especially as they embark on another exciting school year in Hampton Roads, Virginia. However, sometimes the tools meant to support their learning, like backpacks, can lead to unexpected pain.

This blog will look at overloaded school backpacks and the pain that might affect your teen-aged child. We will also explore ways to address this issue, including how to shop for a new school backpack.

The Strain of the Backpack

By design, the back will compensate for any load applied to it. Picture this: A teen, excited for their day in a Virginia Beach school, slings on their backpack, not realizing that the weight is slowly harming their back. Picture your teen's backpack - X-Box Controllers, water bottles, computers, extra batteries, and more. This isn't a one-time event. This chronic routine may cause them to experience back pain throughout their school years, including college.

What are the effects of an overloaded backpack? From a physical therapy view, here is a list of impacts:

Exert undue pressure on the lower back, potentially leading to disc compression.

Distort the natural curves in the middle and lower backs, causing muscle strain and irritation to spine joints and the rib cage.

Cause lumbar asymmetry or curvature in the lower back.

Lead to rounded shoulders, which in turn affects posture.

Pull on the neck muscles, giving rise to headache, shoulder pain, lower back pain, and neck and arm pain.

Make someone lean forward, hampering balance and raising the risk of falls.

Preventative Tips: Backpacks and Pain

Backpacks and back pain don’t have to be lifelong partners! Back-to-School is the perfect time to review some tips with your kids. (These tips are also helpful for adults that regularly use a backpack during their commute to work or for hobbies and adventures.)

Some precautionary steps include:

Use both shoulder straps for balance.

Opt for lightweight, padded backpacks.

If available, pick backpacks with wheels.

Make use of lockers to reduce carrying weight.

Regularly empty backpacks of unnecessary items.

Limit backpack weight to 15% of a child's body weight.

Shopping for the Perfect School Backpack

Shopping for a new school backpack is exciting—no matter the student's age. But choosing a backpack isn’t just about colors or trendy designs; it’s about ensuring it supports your teen's health. You have read about the link between school backpacks and pain. Now, here are some tips from the Therapy Network staff to keep in mind when shopping for a new backpack:

Opt for backpacks with wide, padded straps.

Seek multiple sections for even weight distribution.

Consider waist belts to help distribute weight.

Reflective material is a plus for children commuting during low light.

Aim for a lightweight design.

Physical Therapy: The Solution to Backpack-Induced Pain

If your teen in Hampton Roads feels the aftermath of a heavy backpack, physical therapy is the way forward. It alleviates pain and strengthens muscles, ensuring future resilience against injuries. School backpack-induced pain should not be ignored.

“A great way to prevent back injury is to strengthen the stabilizing muscles of your torso, including your lower back and abdominal muscles.”—KidsHealth.org

Enter The Therapy Network…

When the talk comes to expert physical therapy, look no further than The Therapy Network. With six accessible offices throughout Coastal Virginia, including Virginia Beach, Hampton Roads, and Chesapeake, we are always within reach. What makes us even more special? No need for a physician's referral to start your teen's healing journey with us! We prioritize convenience with immediate appointment availability.

In conclusion, while backpacks are a school staple, ensuring the correct use is vital. As we've learned, overloaded backpacks can be the villain behind back and shoulder pain. But with the right backpack and the expert care from The Therapy Network, we can ensure our teens and children are pain-free and ready to conquer the world!

If your teen is experiencing back or shoulder pain, don’t wait. Visit one of our six locations in Coastal Virginia today. The health of our future, our children, rests in the balance. School backpack-induced pain may not resolve on its own.

And remember, at The Therapy Network, a healthier future is just an appointment away!

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