CardioFlex Therapy joins Ambetter

CardioFlex Therapy is excited to announce we have joined the Ambetter & Sunshine Health network. As an In-Network provider of Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy, CardioFlex now accepts all plans from Ambetter & Sunshine Health, including Marketplace, Medicare, and Medicaid insurance coverage. CardioFlex Therapy performs Physical Therapy & Occupational Therapy in our Outpatient Clinic, and in the homes of our patients.

 

Ambetter from Sunshine Health is Centene Corporation‘s Health Insurance Marketplace product. Their approach is based on the core belief that quality healthcare is best delivered locally. Ambetter and Sunshine Health offers coverage with no lifetime limits, pre-existing conditions, increased coverage for kids, increased preventive care for adults and seniors, and preventive care for women.

Ambetter Sunshine Health is now accepted at CardioFlex Therapy for your Physical Therapy needs.

To learn more about what health insurance companies CardioFlex Therapy offers, read our articles here: https:https://www.cardioflextherapy.com/blog/insurances-accepted-at-cardioflex-therapy/ Call our Physical Therapy outpatient clinic in Davie Florida for detailed information on what your insurance will cover, and a free phone consultation at 954.693.9090. You may also want to visit our In-Home Services page. We serve Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach Counties for your convenience.

For more info visit: www.cardioflextherapy.com

Physical Therapy for Cancer Patients

http://www.cardioflextherapy.com/blog/physical-therapy-for-cancer-patients/

Physical therapists (PTs) are highly-educated, licensed health care professionals who can help patients reduce pain and improve or restore mobility – in many cases without expensive surgery and often reducing the need for long-term use of prescription medications and their side effects.

Cancer and its treatments, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and hormone therapy, can result in physical impairments. Physical therapy assists individuals who have been diagnosed with cancer to recover from these impairments – and in some cases to help prevent them altogether! Our goal, as physical therapists, is to help you optimize your physical function, independence, and overall quality of life.

Individuals that receive cancer treatments typically experience extensive physical limitations during and after treatments. The most common impairments that are usually identified by the physical therapists are: decreased strength, decreased range of motion (ROM), decreased joint mobility, postural dysfunction, soft tissue restrictions, lymphedema, gait deviations, soft tissue fibrosis, CRF, skin integrity issues, pain, incontinence and urgency or frequency.

It has been proven that physical therapists’ management of these cancer-related treatment effects and strategies are directly related to their training and skills. For example, effective lymphedema management strategies may include lymphatic massage, aerobic exercise, and extremity bandaging. Some studies demonstrate the efficacy of targeted aerobic training and strengthening exercises for the prevention and management of CRF and physical deconditioning during and after treatment in various types of cancers. Additionally, clinicians may ascertain physical limitations in patients with cancers. For example, urinary and sexual dysfunctions are common in men treated for prostate cancer, and upper extremity dysfunction and lymphedema are common in women with breast cancer. People with head and neck cancers may have difficulty with eating and speaking. Still, these physical issues are specific to the location of the cancer in the body and the types of treatments patients receive, but they do not necessarily provide a complete clinical picture of the patient with cancer, such as medication use, the number and types of cancer treatments.

Your Physical Therapist may refer you to other healthcare professionals or services such as:
• Occupational therapy
• Speech therapy
• Registered Dietician for nutrition and weight management
• Professional psychological support
• Palliative care for pain management
• Support groups
• Community exercise programs

Regular Physical Therapy has provided a vehicle for recovery that creates a sense of ‘self-power’ defined as taking ownership and control of one’s health to increase well-being. It is never too late to utilize rehabilitation services for cancer recovery. If you find that you are having trouble accomplishing daily tasks or functioning at your prior level of independence, seek out a rehabilitation expert and regain your vitality.

No matter what area of the body ails you – neck, shoulder, back, knee – physical therapists have an established history of helping individuals improve their quality of life. A physical therapist can help you learn to move without pain while feeling renewed and ready to move on.

We encourage you to learn as much as possible about your illness or condition. The best resources include The American Cancer Society (www.cancer.org/), the Susan G. Komen Foundation (http://www.info-komen.org/), the National Lymphedema Network (https://lymphnet.org/), and others available for every specific type of cancer. Also, read our article Importance of Physical Therapy in Cancer Recovery.

For more info visit: www.cardioflextherapy.com

Simply Healthcare & Wellcare Health now accepted at CardioFlex

http://www.cardioflextherapy.com/blog/simply-healthcare-wellcare-now-accepted-at-cardioflex/

We at CardioFlex Therapy in Davie, Fl, work diligently with insurance companies to ensure we are considered a priority for many circumstances, to be within network, to have the lowest deductibles possible offered to you, our patients. You will be surprised to hear many insurance companies and insurance plans do not require a referral to visit a Physical Therapist, or will have low deductibles or copays when you want to see your Physical Therapist. Keeping up with our patients’ needs we have enrolled in these two Healthcare Insurance Companies: Simply Healthcare and WellCare health insurance.

Simply Healthcare is a Florida licensed health maintenance organization (HMO), which offer health plans for people enrolled in Medicaid and/or Medicare programs. It is a managed care plan that serves recipients of Statewide Medicaid Managed Care (SMMC) Managed Medical Assistance (MMA) in Florida. 

WellCare health insurance offers excellent medical services coverage and benefit programs that make them a good choice for seniors, families, and individuals, including children in Staywell Kids. So contact your insurance company or give us a call at our office, we are always happy to give you any information we can provide you with.

Most insurance plans, including Medicare, workers’ compensation, and private insurers, pay for Physical Therapy services that are medically necessary and that are provided by or under the direction and supervision of a Physical Therapist. CardioFlex Therapy outpatient clinic in Davie, Florida is operated by President and Director Terry Abrams, specialized in Orthopedics, Neurological Disorders, Vertigo & Vestibular Rehab, Sports Injury, Neck & Back Pain, Shoulder Pain, Elbow & Wrist Pain, Hip & Knee pain, Ankle & Foot Pain, TMJ & Headaches. 

For more info visit: www.cardioflextherapy.com

Trapecists, Dancers, & Gymnasts' Injury Therapy at CardioFlex

https://www.cardioflextherapy.com/blog/trapecists-dancers-gymnasts-injury-therapy/

With over 600 muscles, 206 bones and countless nerves, ligaments, and tendons in the body, it’s almost impossible for dancers, trapezes. contortionists, gymnasts, and other athletes to escape getting injured. These athletes that perform repetitive movements for hours a day coupled with a low amount of recovery time in between shows increases the performer’s risk for chronic overuse injuries (in addition to the ever-present risk of an acute injury). In most cases, pain is due to muscle soreness that resolves in a day or two. However, sometimes there is something more to blame—that’s when you should see a physician or your physical therapist! 

Cirque du Soleil, Barnum and Bailey Circus, Ballet Dancers, Gymnasts, Aerialists, Jugglers, Tumblers, Clowns, make it their life to perform. most of them on a daily basis. Studies by John Hopkins Medicine that looked into dance injuries found that injuries from using your joints and muscles too much (overuse injuries) are the most common. The majority of these overuse injuries involve an ankle, leg, foot or lower back. Some common injuries are:

1. Hip injuries: snapping hip syndrome, hip impingement, labral tears, hip flexor tendonitis, hip bursitis, and sacroiliac joint dysfunction
2. Foot and ankle injuries: Achilles tendonitis, trigger toe, and ankle impingement
3. Knee injuries: patellofemoral pain syndrome
4. Stress fractures: metatarsals, tibia, sesamoids and lumbar spine
5. Dancers are also likely to develop arthritis in the knee, hip, ankle, and foot.

Generally, dancers have a much lower rate of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries than other athletes. One explanation could be that dance training involves much more intense jumping from an earlier age than other sports, which helps improve muscle control.

Because the upper body is used as a weight-bearing joint in gymnastics, injuries to the shoulder, elbow, and wrist are common and may include:

1. Superior Labrum, Anterior-Posterior (SLAP) Lesions in the Shoulder
2. Elbow Dislocation
3. Wrist Sprains
4. The most common gymnastics injuries to the lower body involve the knee and ankle. Lower extremity injuries usually result from the landing and dismount activities and may include:
5. Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Injury
6. Achilles Tendon Injury
7. Lower Back Injuries

Moira Campbell, a trapeze artist who teaches at the Hangar in Stratford, east London, says “People don’t realize when they start that the trapeze is akin to weight training. They are weak when they start, but you have to lift your entire body weight with every move and that is incredibly tough”. Contrary to popular belief, it is not the arms that are worked the hardest, but the core muscles in the abdominal area. “To get in and out of moves, even just to swing on the flying trapeze, you need to engage your core muscles and really work them”. Remarkably, injuries at trapeze school are rare. Thorough warm-up and cool-down sessions limit the possibility of muscle strains and pull. “It is more like a sport in the respect that you need muscles to be fully prepared for action. Perhaps the most common injuries are those that occur as a result of twisting something in particular, such as the rotator cuff muscles [which support the shoulder joint]”.

Many injuries can be prevented by following proper training guidelines, using safety equipment, and incorporating the following tips:

1. Wear all required safety gear whenever competing or training — special equipment may include wrist guards, hand grips, footwear, ankle or elbow braces, and pads
2. Do not “play through the pain” — if you are hurt, see your doctor and follow instructions for treatment and recovery fully
3. Make sure first aid is available at all competitions and practices
4. Inspect equipment to ensure that it is in good condition, including padded floors, secured mats under every apparatus, and safety harnesses for learning difficult moves
5. Insist on spotters when learning new skills
6. Warm-up muscles with light aerobic exercise, such as jumping jacks or running in place, before beginning training or new activities

Always seek medical advice, either from your physician or your physical therapist. Many injuries can be corrected when treated right from the very beginning, so don’t hesitate to reach out. CardioFlex Therapy is located in Davie, Florida. We offer Physical and Occupational Therapy at our facility or in the comfort of your home. Call us at 954-693-9090 to learn more about how we can help you manage your pain. We accept most insurance plans and with our flexible schedule, we will be able to bring you in when you need it the most.

For more info visit: www.cardioflextherapy.com

Sports Therapy at CardioFlex Therapy in Davie, Fl

http://www.cardioflextherapy.com/blog/sports-therapy-at-cardioflex-therapy-in-davie-fl/

Sports Medicine is important expertise at CardioFlex Therapy in Davie, Florida. Our Physical Therapists have successfully treated major league athletes that are still playing. No matter what sport you play, Physical Therapy will help you improve certain moves or treat your injury. Physical Therapy deals with physical fitness and the treatment and prevention of injuries related to sports and exercise. Most professional sports teams employ Physical Therapists these days.

Physical therapy (PT), also known as physiotherapy, is one of the allied health professions that, by using mechanical force and movements (biomechanics or kinesiology), manual therapy, exercise therapy, and electrotherapy, remediates impairments and promotes mobility and function. Physical therapy is used to improve a patient’s quality of life through examination, diagnosis, prognosis, physical intervention, and patient education, performed by a physical therapist.

Physical therapists are closely involved in the care and wellbeing of athletes including recreational, semi-professional (paid) and professional (full-time employment) participants. This area of practice encompasses athletic injury management under 5 main categories:

Acute care – assessment and diagnosis of an initial injury
Treatment – application of specialist advice and techniques to encourage healing
Rehabilitation – progressive management for a full return to sport
Prevention – identification, and address of deficiencies known to directly result in, or act as precursors to injury, such as movement assessment
Education – sharing of specialist knowledge to individual athletes, teams or clubs to assist in the prevention or management of injury

CardioFlex Therapy offers many types of Physical Therapy, including Sports, as follows: Post-Surgery Rehabilitation, Back Stabilization, Orthopedic Rehabilitation, Senior Rehabilitation Programs, TMJ, Cardiovascular Rehabilitation, Work Injury Rehabilitation, Lymphedema Treatment, Balance Training, Neurological Rehabilitation, Pain Management, Vestibular Rehabilitation, and Occupational Therapy. Most of our services are provided at our outpatient clinic in Davie, but we also offer home services for those who cannot travel within Broward, Miami and Palm Beach counties.

For more info visit: www.cardioflextherapy.com

Check out CardioFlex Therapy on Yelp

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Crossfit needs Physical Therapy

http://www.cardioflextherapy.com/blog/crossfit-needs-physical-therapy/

By: Terry Abrams

“The physical therapist is one of the most underutilized avenues of rehab among conventional fitness athletes and CrossFitters. Physical therapists are movement specialists with a deep understanding of human anatomy. PTs are also the main point of contact for physical medicine and unlike many primary care physicians, PTs usually won’t tell athletes to give up the sports they love. Instead, PTs will provide athletes with the tools they need to understand how their bodies can perform better in those conditions”, says Genevieve Gyulavary, PT, DPT in an article written for Covalent Careers. This could not be further from the truth, well-written statement and I couldn’t agree more. Let’s go back to the basics.

CrossFit will push you to the absolute max with heavy weights, as many reps as possible, as fast as possible. It is promoted as both a physical exercise philosophy and a competitive fitness sport, incorporating elements from high-intensity interval training, Olympic weightlifting, plyometrics, powerlifting, gymnastics, girevoy sport, calisthenics, strongman, and other exercises. While all exercise can create injury, we see more injuries with CrossFit because of the high-speed, high-impact approach. 

The number one reason we see more patients injured during their CrossFit sessions is muscle and joint exhaustion caused by incorrect techniques, paired with patients not knowing their own limitations. You will need to learn the fundamentals and the right technique before you begin to increase intensity or volume.

Anytime an athlete pursues a recreational activity with intensity & volume, injuries are possible. The most common injuries we see at our practice caused while practicing CrossFit are shoulder, back, and knees. We explain more bellow.

• Torn labrums, shoulder impingement, and rotator cuff injury. Repeated use of the shoulder can make the tendons in your shoulder swell, leading them to “catch” on your upper shoulder bone. Your rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that attach your upper arm bone to your shoulder. They help you lift and rotate your arm. The rotator cuff sits under the top of the shoulder, which is called the acromion. If you have shoulder impingement, your rotator cuff catches or rubs against the acromion. When you lift your arm, the space (bursa) between the rotator cuff and acromion narrows, which increases pressure. The increased pressure irritates the rotator cuff, leading to impingement. 
• Lower back sprains are the most common problem and they often occur from improper lifting techniques or from trying to lift too much weight. Sciatica caused by short and tight piriformis, spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spinal canal), slipped vertebrae or herniated disc, stiff iliopsoas. 
• Squats, jumps and various other CrossFit movements give knees a pounding. The most common knee injuries that can occur during this type of exercise are MCL injury and meniscal tears. The MCL is a band of tissue on the inside of your knee connecting your thighbone to the bone of your lower leg, injuring it will require Physical Therapy or surgery. A meniscus tear is a common knee injury that happens when one or more of the fibrocartilage strips in the knee (called menisci) is stretched or torn. 

When these injuries occur, the best course of action is to work with a physician group that understands how to deal with the pain and rehabilitation of sports injuries. It’s your best chance to avoid additional injury and to get you back to your previous activity level. Only a healthy athlete can be a successful athlete. When pain or injury do occur, seek the right treatment with a Sports Physical Therapy clinic after you see your doctor. CardioFlex Therapy in Davie, Florida is well prepared to treat these and many other Sports Injuries to get the athlete back in shape and back in the game.

For more info visit: www.cardioflextherapy.com

Physical Therapists Can & Will Manage Your Pain

http://www.cardioflextherapy.com/blog/physical-therapists-can-will-manage-your-pain/

by Terry Abrams.

CardioFlex Physical Therapists are professionally trained to help you improve movement and regain control of your lifestyle. Physical therapy is among the safe and effective alternatives to opioids recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for the management of most non-cancer related pain.

Whereas opioids only mask the sensation of pain, physical therapists treat pain through movement, hands-on care, exercise, and patient education. Physical therapists know how to manipulate your body to get it up to its best performance, though this can only be achieved with the commitment of the patient.

Here’s how Physical Therapists help manage pain:

1. Exercise.
A study, per APTA, following 20,000 people over 11 years found that those who exercised on a regular basis experienced less pain. And among those who exercised more than 3 times per week, chronic widespread pain was 28% less common1. Physical therapists can prescribe exercise specific to your goals and needs.

2. Manual Therapy.
Research supports a hands-on approach to treating pain. From carpal tunnel syndrome to low back pain, this type of care can effectively reduce your pain and improve your movement. Physical Therapists may use manipulation, joint and soft tissue mobilizations, ultrasound, hot and cold compresses, and electricity, as well as other strategies in your care.

3. Education.
A large study conducted with military personnel demonstrated that those with back pain who received a 45-minute educational session about pain were less likely to seek treatment than their peers who didn’t receive education about pain. Physical therapists will talk with you to make sure they understand your pain history and help set realistic expectations about your treatment.

4. Teamwork.
Recent studies have shown that developing a positive relationship with your physical therapist and being an active participant in your own recovery can impact your success. This is likely because physical therapists are able to directly work with you, assess how your pain responds to treatment and monitor improvement.

Low Back Pain: Although low back pain is rarely serious or life-threatening, there are several conditions that may be related to your low back pain, such as:

• Degenerative disk disease
• Lumbar spinal stenosis
• Fractures
• Herniated disk
• Osteoarthritis
• Osteoporosis
• Tumors of the spine

Our Physical Therapists can help you improve or restore mobility. Stay active, and do as much of your normal routine as possible (bed rest for longer than a day can actually slow down your recovery). If your pain lasts more than a few days or gets worse, schedule an appointment to see your physical therapist. Your physical therapist will evaluate, identify the factors that have contributed to your specific back problem, and design an individualized treatment plan for your specific back problem.

Treatments for Low Back Pain may include:

• Manual therapy, including spinal manipulation, to improve the mobility of joints and soft tissues
• Specific strengthening and flexibility exercises
• Education about how you can take better care of your back
• Training for proper lifting, bending, and sitting; for doing chores both at work and in the home; and for proper sleeping positions
• Assistance in creating a safe and effective physical activity program to improve your overall health
• Use of ice or heat treatments or electrical stimulation to help relieve pain

CardioFlex Therapy is located in Davie, Florida. We offer Physical and Occupational Therapy at our facility or in the comfort of your home. Call us at 954-693-9090 to learn more about how we can help you manage your pain. We accept most Insurance plans and with our flexible schedule, we will be able to bring you in.

For more info visit: www.cardioflextherapy.com

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome & Physical Therapy

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a common condition of the wrist and hand that can affect the use of the whole arm. It is caused by pressure on the nerve at the base of the palm. Because of the demands that people place on their hands and wrists, CTS is a common condition affecting 1 out of 20 Americans. Surgery for this condition is commonly performed on the wrist and hand. Fortunately for most people who develop CTS, physical therapy treatment can often relieve pain and numbness and restore normal use of the hand, wrist, and arm without the need for surgery.

Physical therapists work closely with other health care professionals to accurately diagnose and treat CTS. Symptoms of CTS are typical, and it is often possible to diagnose it without extensive testing.  Physical therapists are experts in the movement and function of the body and will conduct an evaluation to determine all of the factors that may be contributing to your condition. After an evaluation, your physical therapist will prescribe your treatment plan based on your specific case.

Physical therapy treatment can be effective in reducing your symptoms and getting you back to performing normal activities. During your first visit with the physical therapist, be prepared to describe your symptoms in as much detail as possible, and say what makes your symptoms worse.

Depending upon the causes of your CTS, your therapy program may include education regarding changing wrist positions, general back and neck positions, exercises to increase the strength of the muscles in your hand, fingers, and forearm—and in some cases, the trunk and postural back muscles. It may also include stretching exercises to improve the flexibility of the wrist, hand, and fingers, use of heat/cold treatments to relieve pain, use of a night splint to reduce discomfort, and more.

The goals of physical therapy are to reduce your symptoms without the need for surgery, to enable you to be as active and functional as possible, and to help you resume your normal work, home, and leisure activities.

All physical therapists are prepared through education and experience to treat a variety of conditions, including CTS. However, you may want to consider:

• A physical therapist who is experienced in treating people with arm and hand musculoskeletal disorders and one who has experience in ergonomics and worksite evaluations. Ergonomics involves understanding the fit between a user (the person), the equipment, and the environment.
• A physical therapist who is a certified hand therapist (CHT).
• A physical therapist who is a board-certified clinical specialist or who has completed a residency or fellowship in orthopedic physical therapy. This therapist has advanced knowledge, experience, and skills that may apply to your condition.

CardioFlex Therapy Physical and Occupational Therapists are prepared to treat this and many other conditions. Call us for a consultation or appointment, we’ll be happy to see you.

CardioFlex Therapy’s Davie Outpatient Clinic: 954-693-9090.

For more info visit: www.cardioflextherapy.com

How Physical Therapy can help Lymphedema patients?

By: Terry Abrams

http://www.cardioflextherapy.com/blog/how-physical-therapy-can-help-lymphedema-patients/

Lymphedema is swelling generally in the arms or legs due to a blockage in your lymphatic system. It’s estimated that about one-third of women who undergo axillary lymph node dissection during breast cancer treatment will develop lymphedema. Identifying and treating lymphedema early helps ensure faster and better outcomes, but even treatment later on, during the chronic stages of the disease, can still help.

To determine if you have lymphedema, check with your physician or physical therapist immediately if you have swelling in one of your limbs and you have cancer or have been treated for cancer, or you have a cardiac, kidney, or liver condition.

Your Physical Therapist will serve as an important member of your health care team and will work closely with you to design a treatment program to help control the swelling and meet your goals for returning to your activities.

In the early stages of lymphedema, when the swelling is mild, it can often be managed by compression garments, exercise, and elevation of the affected limb to encourage lymph flow. For more severe swelling, the physical therapist may use a treatment called “complete decongestive therapy.” The initial step often includes manual lymphatic drainage, which feels like a light form of massage and helps improve the flow of lymph from your arm or leg. This is followed by compression bandaging that helps to reduce the swelling. Your therapist will carefully monitor the size of the limb throughout your treatment sessions.

Once the limb has decreased to the desired size, your physical therapist will help you begin to take over your own care by:

1. Developing a safe and sensible exercise program that will increase your physical fitness without unnecessarily straining your affected arm or leg.
2. Updating your compression garments to ensure proper fitting, working with you to find the type of garment that best meets your needs.
3. Educating you about the proper diet to decrease fluid buildup in your tissues and skin care to reduce the risk of infection.

CardioFlex Physical Therapists are professionals that are well trained and will help you get back on track to recovery. We will guide you with the right exercises you will be able to do at home to keep the Lymphedema in check. Our outpatient clinic is located in the heart of Davie, by Flamingo and Griffin Roads. Call us for an appointment at 954-693-9090. Terry and his staff are looking forward to helping you with your condition.

For more info visit: www.cardioflextherapy.com

Low Back Pain? You need Physical Therapy

http://www.cardioflextherapy.com/blog/low-back-pain-you-need-physical-therapy/

By Terry Abrams.

If you’re suffering from low back pain and wondering why your insurance company won’t approve an MRI before going to physical therapy – there was a great study done on about 800 individuals where they compared two groups, published originally in the journal Health Services Research. One group went straight to imaging and one tried physical therapy first. What they found, was that the ones that went straight to imaging (X-rays, CT scans, MRI) had a greater likelihood to go to surgery, have injections, and end up in the emergency room compared to those who went to Physical Therapy first. The article describes physical therapy as an approach that “focuses on educating patients about what might be causing their back pain, assuring them that most problems subside in time, and engaging them in their therapy.”

Physical therapists are specially trained experts in low back pain.

They are trained to identify any red flags or emergency situations that would require further medical assessment. They’re also trained to help you understand your low back pain, find the root cause of your condition, and give you some practical advice on how to resolve those issues without medication and without surgery. So, if you’re dealing with low back pain and you have not received the authorization for an MRI, I encourage you to find a local, licensed physical therapist in your area and have a conversation about your condition.

“What sets physical therapy apart from other types of treatment is the quality time we spend with our clients,” says Terry Abrams owner and physical therapist at CardioFlex Therapy in Davie, Florida. “Not only will we teach you about your condition and ways you can help yourself, but we will also start you on a program made just for you to get you moving again. A program customized just for you, and none of the side effects of surgery and pain medication.”

NOTE: your physical therapist is well trained in warning signs that would require you to see a doctor for further testing if required.

For more info visit: www.cardioflextherapy.com

Why Physical Therapy First?

http://www.cardioflextherapy.com/blog/why-physical-therapy-first/

Are you or a family member dealing with pain and aren’t quite sure who you should go see? A physical therapist might not be the first person you think of, but hopefully, after reading this, it’ll help you understand how we can help.

What does a physical therapist do and how can they help with an injury?

A physical therapist can help you move better. Whether you are having trouble getting out of bed, picking up your kids, having difficulty reaching into the cupboards, or any other daily tasks that you’re having trouble doing, a PT can help. We spend one on one time with you to ensure that we tailor to your every need. We also come up with a comprehensive plan to help you get back to what YOU want to do, which is the whole point right? A physical therapist can help facilitate your recovery, with us giving you the tools to be successful. We want to empower you to be able to do things needed to keep you healthy for the long run.

Your physical therapist is focused on getting you back to the things you enjoy

If you choose PT first, you’ll feel better faster, and could potentially save money in the process! Who doesn’t love to save money? In most states, you can see a physical therapist first without needing to see anyone prior. Most people don’t know that, so we’re trying to make sure people understand they have a choice in where they want to go to get better.

I like to compare physical therapy to when something goes wrong with your car. If you need to invest in parts or work done to keep your car running properly, why wouldn’t you do the same thing with regards to your health?

There are many places you can go for an injury, hopefully, you know now that you can choose physical therapy first.

Article credits: GetPT1st by Russell Manalastas.

For more info visit: www.cardioflextherapy.com

Happy FIT Valentines Day

HAPPY VALENTINES DAY! Stay fit today with these special tips by CardioFlex Therapy.

www.cardioflextherapy.com

By Terry Abrams

CardioFlex Therapy wishes you a Happy Holiday 2018

http://www.cardioflextherapy.com/blog/cardioflex-therapy-wishes-you-a-happy-holiday-2018/

Happy Holidays!

CardioFlex Therapy wishes you a season full of health and happiness! Surrounded by those we love, may we gather and count our blessings.

Stay healthy with our Physical Therapists’ Tips to Avoid Pain During the Holidays. Please call our office to set your appointments, we’ll get you in for any unforeseen circumstances, 954-693-9090.

 

The Holidays begin early this year, with Hanukkah celebrations beginning on December 2nd. For those families who like to celebrate more than one tradition this holiday, you will have plenty of time to do so.

 

Best wishes from our team of Physical Therapists, Occupational Therapists, and everyone else at CardioFlex Therapy.

 

For more info visit: www.cardioflextherapy.com

Physical Therapists’ Tips to Avoid Pain During the Holidays

http://www.cardioflextherapy.com/blog/physical-therapists-tips-to-avoid-pain-during-the-holidays/ 

“To most of us the holiday season is all about tradition, fun, and family, but if we’re not careful, the holidays can also be a pain in the neck—literally—”says the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA). “Typical holiday activities, such as shopping ’till you drop’, lifting heavy boxes and presents, and countless hours of cooking and baking, can cause muscles to work harder than usual, many times resulting in neck, shoulder, and back pain.”

Let us help you stay safe during this busy season! Using proper body mechanics can help prevent muscle and joint discomfort this holiday season, as recommended by the American Physical Therapy Association.

1- When lifting, make sure you:

• Test an object’s weight before attempting to lift heavy packages or luggage. Try pushing it with your foot. If it seems too heavy then take smaller loads, which are less likely to strain your back and are easier on arm and shoulder muscles.
• Keep the load close to your body when lifting.
• Ask for help or use an assistive device to lift heavy objects.
• Seek help from a physical therapist if your back pain lasts more than a few days or gets worse.

2-  When you’re shopping:

• Distribute the weight of shopping bags equally on both sides of your body.
• Consider carrying a small backpack rather than a heavy purse.
• Wear comfortable shoes; carrying packages while wearing high heels on hard surfaces can contribute to foot and ankle injuries.
• Don’t carry overstuffed shopping bags for extended periods of time.
• Consider using a shopping cart or getting help to carry packages to your car.
• Avoid prime shopping times to decrease wait times that can increase or exceed standing/walking time tolerances.
• Plan your shopping trip ahead of time. Having a set list of gifts you intend to buy will help you plan for extra help, if needed, to carry purchases.

3-  When Cooking and/or baking:

• Choose a work surface that is approximately at the level of your forearms when your elbows are bent at a right angle (90 degrees) or at elbow height. Shoulders and upper back will be in better position and this will decrease the risk of upper back, neck, and shoulder strain.
• Work on a padded surface.  If you have tile, vinyl, or wood flooring, for cushioning consider purchasing an inexpensive area rug  that has grippers on the back to keep the rug from moving and you from slipping or tripping. Standing long periods on a hard surface can lead to muscle fatigue and back ache.
• Use good lifting mechanics when retrieving small kitchen appliances from lower shelves or drawers. Kneel down if necessary and keep the object close to your body.
• Be careful when bending to take items in and out of a conventional floor-model stove. If that turkey is heavy you will need help to get it out of the oven, not because you can’t lift it, it’s the position of the body while bending and carrying than can really strain your back.
• Frequently perform gentle movement exercises to keep the muscles in your neck and shoulders loose.

Physical therapists are highly-educated, licensed health care professionals who can help patients reduce pain and improve or restore mobility – in many cases without expensive surgery or the side effects of prescription medications.

For more info visit: www.cardioflextherapy.com

What is it like to be a physical therapist? by CardioFlex

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What is it like to be a physical therapist? Simple: if you are passionate about helping others recover from less than perfect mobility, you will love your job as a physical therapist. Physical therapists are experts in the musculoskeletal system, and we’re now a doctoring profession. We have the ability to evaluate, come up with a physical therapy diagnosis and treat that diagnosis as we see fit, according to best practices and best evidence.

It is a misconception that physical therapists only practice massage therapy, apply hot and cold compresses, and send their patients home with some exercises. In fact, physical therapists need to know your body very well to not cause further damage, but to begin expected improvements in whatever condition the patient may be suffering from.

“All physical therapists are licensed by the state and must have fulfilled standard academic requirements. You can find work with a Bachelor’s Degree in Physical Therapy from one of the 700 or so accredited undergraduate programs in the U.S., but those who did not take this route in college can attend master’s programs to study rehabilitation therapy. Aspiring physical therapists should study biology, biomechanics, calculus and statistics, chemistry, nutrition, human growth and development, physics, and psychology.” says The Princeton Review. Indeed, owner and director at CardioFlex Therapy in Davie Fl, Terry Abrams, first got a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and then received his Master’s Degree in Physical Therapy, later opening his own practice serving the Palm Beach, Broward and Miami-Dade communities.

Physical therapists examine patients and develop a plan of care that promotes movement, reduces pain, restores function, and prevents disability. The physical therapist works with the patient, family members, and other health care providers to ensure the goals of the plan of care are met and the patient outcomes are optimal.

“Therapeutic exercise and functional training are the cornerstones of physical therapist treatment. Depending on the particular needs of a patient and client, physical therapists may “manipulate” a joint (that is, perform certain types of passive movements at the end of the individual’s range of motion) or massage a muscle to promote proper movement and function. Physical therapists may use other techniques such as electrotherapy, ultrasound (high-frequency waves that produce heat), hot packs, and ice in addition to other treatments. Physical therapists can also help to prevent the loss of mobility by developing fitness and wellness-oriented programs for healthier and more active lifestyles.” as reported in the American Physical Therapy Association, APTA, a great source of information for students, practitioners and patients.

For CardioFlex Therapy owner Terry Abrams, there is no condition he will say no to, he is well versed, well studied and keeps up with the latest in the PT industry. He likes his profession and he works hard at every patient’s diagnosis, he doesn’t give up until he starts seeing improvements. Many of his patients require short time treatments and easily improve, but for those that require more analysis, more questions, and are in less than optimal condition,  they will become Terry’s next challenge, many will not be very optimistic believing their condition cannot and will not improve, only to be surprised very quickly. “This is the best part of my career”, says Terry, “to see a patient achieve a full recovery after visiting my practice. That’s when it is most rewarding!”

The less glamorous and rewarding part of being a Physical Therapist is the business side of it; billing, insurances and any paperwork associated with it, which is impossible to not run into. What is clear at CardioFlex Therapy is that everyone is involved and interested in the patient’s recovery, which makes working as a physical therapist very rewarding.

For more info visit: www.cardioflextherapy.com

Conditions you didn’t know Physical Therapy can help with

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Physical therapists (PTs) are highly-educated, licensed health care professionals who can help patients reduce pain and improve or restore mobility – in many cases without expensive surgery and often reducing the need for long-term use of prescription medications and their side effects. CardioFlex Therapy in Davie, Fl, is well prepared for any type of condition that may require physical therapy. In this article we will discuss some of the common ailments we treat, many which you didn’t know we could help you with.

1- Vertigo: a spinning sensation and can occur even when you are perfectly still, scientifically benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), is easily treated in just a few physical therapy visits. CardioFlex Therapy physical therapists specialize in vestibular rehabilitation physical therapy.

2- Headaches: The most common type of headaches may be caused by poor posture, stress, muscle tightness, or a neck injury. At CardioFlex, a physical therapist can help to determine the type of headaches you have and what the best treatments may be to help alleviate your symptom, performing manual massage to help loosen up tight muscles, and correcting any posture problems to prevent future headaches.

3- Incontinence: Most common in women, incontinence can be due to pregnancy, childbirth, surgery, pelvic floor weakness or spasm, or overall deconditioning. A Physical Therapist can help to strengthen the proper muscles with a variety of techniques, depending on your symptoms.

4- TMJ: Or temporomandibular jaw dysfunction, commonly jaw pain or an unusual popping or clicking of the jaw while talking or eating. TMJ disorders are common and can be treated by one of our professionals at CardioFlex Therapy.

5- Concussions: Athletes or victims of car accident may have concussions that may cause long term issues, like dizziness/vertigo, balance problems, or headaches, all of which can be treated by a physical therapist, allowing the individual to fully recover.

6- Lymphedema: A chronic and incurable swelling of affected body parts, usually arms and legs, very common after certain type of cancer treatments, such as breast cancer. CardioFlex Therapy trained Physical Therapists can perform certain types of lymphatic drainage massage or use certain wrapping techniques to help decrease swelling in a limb.

Physical therapy helps people of all ages who have medical conditions, illnesses or injuries that limit their regular ability to move and function. Physical therapy will help you reduce or eliminate pain, improve mobility, avoid surgery, recover from a stroke, recover or prevent sports injury, manage age related issues like arthritis. It will also help you with balance, preventing you from falling, manage diabetes and cardiovascular issues, and heart and lung diseases.

If you or a loved one is injured or needs help staying mobile, please call our office, we can treat patients at our Outpatient Clinic in Davie, Florida, or visit them in the comfort of their homes within Palm Beach, Broward and Dade counties. Call us at 954-693-9090.

For more info visit: www.cardioflextherapy.com

Join CardioFlex Therapy for the fun Tough Mudder!

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Tough Mudder is a 5 or 10 mile course with obstacles designed to drag you out of your comfort zone. Tough Mudder isn’t about how fast you can cross the finish line, it’s about pushing yourself, about teamwork, camaraderie, and accomplishing something extraordinary. So challenge yourself, escape the ordinary and join our physical therapists in this fun event to benefit the American Liver Foundation. Here are the event details:

When:
October 13-14

Location:
Clear Springs Ranch5020 Cox Rd.
Bartow , FL , 33830

Time:
begins at 9:00 am
Specific time assigned to each participant

Why do we support this event? Because we want to promote education, advocacy, support services and research for the prevention, treatment and cure of liver disease. Liver disease patients are at a greater risk of Sarcopenia as it triggers it, and we develop exercise therapy plans for liver disease patients.  Physical therapists are well-positioned among the health care team to screen for sarcopenia (the degenerative loss of skeletal muscle mass – 0.5–1% loss per year after the age of 50- , quality, and strength associated with aging) in those with CKD and for the treatment of musculoskeletal conditions that may affect functional performance. Given the consequences of both low muscle mass and low bone mineral density, appropriate and timely physical therapy is important for fall risk assessment and intervention to minimize the susceptibility to bone fracture. While strength training has been studied less frequently than aerobic training for the management of secondary CKD conditions, evidence suggests that this patient population benefits from participation in strength training programs, according to the National Center for Biotechnology Information.

For more info visit: www.cardioflextherapy.com

CardioFlex Therapy supports Wacoal’s Fit for the Cure®

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This year marks the 18th anniversary of Wacoal’s Fit for the Cure® program benefiting Susan G. Komen® and CardioFlex Therapy in Davie is thrilled to support the event: For every woman who gets a professional bra fitting at an event, Wacoal will donate $2 to Komen (no purchase necessary). Wacoal will also donate $2 to Komen for every Wacoal bra, shapewear item or b.tempt’d bra purchased at these events. Together with all other promotions conducted by Wacoal, Wacoal will donate an aggregate guaranteed minimum donation of $250,000.00 in 2018 to support Komen’s National Treatment Assistance program and other local community health programs. Join us and take advantage and help others in the process.

When:
October 25th, 2018

Location:
3107 PGA Blvd.
Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33410

Time:
9:00am

In a recent study published April 2015 in the Physical Therapy Journal, researchers found that physical therapy services are more commonly sought out for individuals surviving breast and genitourinary cancers. Researchers sought to find the characteristics of patients with cancer that were referred for outpatient physical therapy and common clinical findings. Over the course of two years, data from 418 patients were analyzed. Genitourinary and breast cancers were the most common types of cancer in their sample. The most common impairments were strength loss and soft tissue dysfunction. Lymphedema was the most common issue for people with breast cancer and incontinence was the most common complaint for people that had genitourinary cancers. They also noted that pain and high fatigue levels were prevalent in individuals that had undergone radiation therapy. This study shows that therapy services are being utilized for individuals that have survived cancer, particularly breast and genitourinary cancer. However, this study also suggests that a large portion of cancer survivors are not seeking out rehabilitation services, even though they would likely find it highly beneficial.

According to the European Journal of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine, post-mastectomy physical therapy ‘widely improves’ a patient’s quality of life. After mastectomy surgery, patients may experience tightness around the surgical site caused by scar tissue formation. The result can be very dense tissue under the incision, which is painful and can restrict range of motion. The restricted range of motion puts women at risk for a painful condition known as Frozen Shoulder. Early treatment by a physical therapist can help reduce the pain and help regain functional range of motion and strength.

The good news is that it is never too late to utilize rehabilitation services for cancer recovery. If you find that you are having trouble accomplishing daily tasks or functioning at your prior level of independence, seek out a rehabilitation expert and regain your vitality.

Article credits to CUREToday.com and Susan G. Komen.

For more info visit: www.cardioflextherapy.com

CardioFlex Therapy supports the Cystic Fibrosis Event

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Join CardioFlex Therapy for this year’s exciting fishing tournament starting from the docks at the Conch House in the Nation’s Oldest City, St. Augustine to benefit the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. Guests will enjoy two days of amazing catch and release fishing for redfish and trout in St. Augustine’s inlets and waterways, guided by local professional captains. The 17th Annual Oldest City Red Trout Classic Competition. The 17th Annual Oldest City Red Trout Classic Tournament will take place from Thursday through Saturday, October 4 – 6, 2018. at the Conch HouseMarina in St. Augustine Beach.

The weekend kicks off on Thursday night (October 4), with a Captains Dinner at the St. Augustine Rod and Gun Club, followed by two full days of inshore fishing tournament headquartered at the Conch House Marina Resort. Each team of two fishermen is paired with a local fishing guide to compete for prizes.

October 4 – 6, 2018

Conch House Marina
57 Comares Ave
St. Augustine, FL, 32080

To register, call (904) 733-3560

CardioFlex Therapy is proud to participate and support the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation of South Florida. We see first hand how patients with this condition improve their quality of life with physical therapy at our facility. Some of the treatments we offer for Cystic Fibrosis (CF): Manual Chest Physiotherapy. Manual chest physical therapy (CPT) is the traditional airway clearance technique for cystic fibrosis (CF) patients. The removal of obstructive, thick sticky secretions is important in preventing infections and helps ease breathing. For this reason we stay involved in our community events helping our neighbors with these conditions, improving their quality of life and creating awareness.

For more info visit: www.cardioflextherapy.com