The Benefits of Physical Therapy For Athletes

 By: Terry Abrams 

When it comes to sports, injuries play a huge part. As much as athletes try to avoid these injuries, accidents do happen unfortunately. The results of these injuries have ended athletes’ careers or prevented them from playing games. Physical therapy helps athletes to reduce pain, improve overall health and prevent reoccurring injuries. Sports therapy is a segment of the global healthcare industry that has recently become quite popular due to it’s applications and positive results in sports. A physical therapist specializing in sports medicine has methods for bringing your body back from injury to get your body back into peak performance. Assessing what went wrong in your body allows them to formulate how to fix it and give tangible methods for strengthening the injury.

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

For more info visit: www.cardioflextherapy.com

About the Author

Marketplace Insurances CardioFlex Offers

 By: Terry Abrams

CardioFlex Therapy is excited to announce we are in network with three major insurances from marketplace. Ambetter, Oscar and Bright Health. We work with a wide array of insurance carriers and plan types to ensure that our community has access to the care they need to stay healthy and strong. We’ve expanded our insurance portfolio to a maximum level, while still providing the quality care that we are known for.

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.

Oscar is now the third largest for-profit national insurer in the Individual Market in the United States based on membership, and has expanded to Small Group in 2017 and Medicare Advantage in 2020. As of 2022, they have at least one health plan in 607 counties across 22 states, and expect to expand in the years ahead both geographically and with respect to insurance markets.

Bright Health gained recognition of its health plan with a prestigious URAC accreditation that is recognized in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. They have proved compliance with rigorous standards, proving our ability to adhere to the mandates of the Affordable Care Act and compete in insurance marketplaces nationwide. Bright Health demonstrates their quality and compliance with standards that align with state and federal expectations for a more value-based delivery of care.

Whether you need Outpatient or Home Physical Therapy or Occupational Therapy, please call CardioFlex Therapy for PT & OT information on how we can best help you at our Outpatient Clinic in Davie at 954-693-9090.

For more info visit: www.cardioflextherapy.com

Devoted Health & MMM of Florida now at CardioFlex Therapy in Davie

“Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity”
– World Health Organization

https://www.cardioflextherapy.com/blog/devoted-health-mmm-of-florida-now-at-cardioflex/

The constant changes in health insurance affect us all, either by choice or because of job changes. CardioFlex Therapy is always looking for ways to improve its service to our surrounding community. It is with this in mind that our Physical Therapy Clinic is now accepting Devoted Health Insurance and MMM (Medicare and Much More) of South Florida.

Choosing the plan that is right for you is hard — there’s no right answer for everybody. So the first step is to figure out the kind of care and the kind of plan you need. We 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. 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.

Both insurance companies offer Medicare; the federal health insurance program for people 65+, people with disabilities and end-stage renal disease. MMM of Florida, Inc. is an HMO plan with a Medicare contract, and so is Devoted Health Insurance. Devoted Health Insurance offers Medicare Advantage plans only, serving those on Medicare with a well-coordinated, more attentive healthcare.  

CardioFlex Therapy offers in-home visits for Physical and Occupational Therapy for those patients who are not able to find transportation or have movement limitations. Call our outpatient clinic in Davie Florida for detailed information at 954.693.9090, or visit our In-Home Services page, we serve Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach Counties.

For more info visit: www.cardioflextherapy.com

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

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

CardioFlex Therapy at February Fundraiser Events

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CardioFlex Therapy Physical and Occupational Therapists are participating in or sponsoring the fundraisers that impact our community. After seeing first hand many of the conditions our patients are in when they seek our professional help, our team has carefully decided on the following events. Take a look at our February fundraisers and join us!

WALK FOR WISHES^® – BROWARD. Help make wishes come true one step at a time at the Walk For Wishes^® 5K Walk/Run at Markham Park in Sunrise on Saturday, February 2nd. Participate as an individual or get together with family, friends, and colleagues to form a team.
When: February 2nd.
Where: Markham Park, 16001 W. State Road 84, Sunrise, FL 33326
Info: Emily White (954) 967-9474 x 319

Buen Provecho Miami! An exclusive dinner with various chefs preparing a meal, a high-end silent auction, and an opportunity to meet with all the chefs. All proceeds benefit United Community Options of South Florida, for cerebral palsy.
When: February 21st.
Where: Hotel Colonnade, Coral Gables.
Contact: Grace Bracamonte 305-325-9093

Bike MS: Breakaway to Key Largo. A ride that will take you farther than you’ve ever gone before. The routes feature well-stocked rest stops every 8-12 miles and are monitored by the route support team consisting of HAM radio operators, support vans, motorcycle patrol, law enforcement, EMTs, and mechanics from our partner bike shops. Our participation drives breakthroughs in MS research and ensures people with MS have what they need to live their best lives.
When: March 2nd and 3rd.
Where: FIU Stadium (Miami, FL)
Contact: Event organizer fundraisingsupport@nmss.org

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

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

http://www.cardioflextherapy.com/blog/what-is-it-like-to-be-a-physical-therapist-by-cardioflex/

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

http://www.cardioflextherapy.com/blog/conditions-you-didnt-know-physical-therapy-can-help-with/

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

Physical Therapists at Bowling Competition

http://www.cardioflextherapy.com/blog/physical-therapists-at-bowling-competition/

CardioFlex Therapy physical and occupational therapists are thrilled to participate in the upcoming Bowling Competition to benefit the Special Olympics of Florida. Special Olympics Florida’s year-round programs in health, education, community building and sports address inactivity, injustice, intolerance and social isolation by encouraging and empowering people with intellectual disabilities. Special Olympics programs allow athletes to overcome these challenges and give them an opportunity to participate in their community, strengthen their abilities, and become champions! By participating in this and other events, you are helping reach and support more people who want to be a part of life changing programs.

When:
October 20, 2018

Location:
Strikers Bowling Family Center
NW 44th Street
Lauderdale Lakes, FL

Time:
7am – 5pm

Join us at this fun event and support our local Special Olympics of Florida.

Special Olympics and over 5 million athletes are leading the charge for full inclusion of people with intellectual disabilities. For 50 years, we have have been building a movement to break down barriers – both on and off the field in health and education – all through the power of sport. As we celebrate our 50th Anniversary, we launch a 5-year campaign to inspire action and ultimately end discrimination for people with intellectual disabilities. The Revolution Is Inclusion.

The movement is rooted in the spirit of our founder, Eunice Kennedy Shriver, who took a rebellious stand against the injustices faced by people with intellectual disabilities in 1968. Today, the fight for inclusion is more relevant than ever. People of all ages, races, genders, cultures, backgrounds, and abilities continue to face discrimination, ignorance, and disparagement. Just as Eunice Kennedy Shriver did 50 years ago, Special Olympics is setting a stake in the ground to create change, and this time, our athletes are leading the way.

As we continue this movement, Special Olympics will build programming and actively engage people in our movement to create social change.

For more info visit: www.cardioflextherapy.com

Join CardioFlex Therapy for the fun Tough Mudder!

http://www.cardioflextherapy.com/blog/join-cardioflex-therapy-for-the-fun-tough-mudder/

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

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Physical Therapists Walk to End Alzheimer’s

The Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s® is the world’s largest event to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s care, support and research. CardioFlex Therapy is proud to participate and support this great cause as we see the effects it has in our community and their loved ones.

Many studies have shown that exercise is beneficial for people with Alzheimer’s disease. Along with cardiovascular fitness, increased endurance, and improved strength, people with Alzheimer’s disease get added benefits from exercising.

Benefits of regular exercises in people with Alzheimer’s disease include maintenance of motor skills, decreased falls, and reduced rate of disease associated with mental decline. Improved behavior, improved memory, and better communication skills are a few other benefits associated with routine exercise programs in Alzheimer’s disease.

“Flexibility, balance, and strength exercises have been studied in patients with Alzheimer’s disease versus medical management alone. At the end of the study, the patients who were treated with both exercise and medical management were less depressed than those in the other group and showed marked improvements in their physical functioning.” according to VeryWellHealth.

Alzheimer’s disease is the sixth-leading cause of death in the United States and the only cause of death among the top 10 in the United States that cannot be prevented, cured or even slowed.  All funds raised through Walk to End Alzheimer’s further the mission of Alzheimer’s Association:  to eliminate Alzheimer’s disease through the advancement of research; to provide and enhance care and support for all affected; and to reduce the risk of dementia through the promotion of brain health. For more information on the upcoming walk, contact Joel Robinson at 9547861533.

Location:
Nova Southeastern University
301 College Ave
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33314

Time:
Registration at 7:30am
Ceremony at 8:30am
Walk at 9:00am

For more info visit: www.cardioflextherapy.com

CardioFlex Physical Therapists at Plane Pull event

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CardioFlex Therapy in Davie is always looking for ways of staying involved in our community. Our Physical Therapists invite you to participate and support the upcoming Special Olympics Florida Plane Pull: a giant tug-of-war, pitting teams of up to 15 members against a plane to see which team can pull the 50 ton United 737 aircraft 12 feet the fastest. Teams must raise a minimum of $1,500 to participate, that’s just $100 per person! Your efforts allow Special Olympics Florida to continue providing year-round training and athletic competitions at no cost to the 44,000 athletes statewide.

Register and create your fundraising page by starting or joining a team. Ask your friends, family, and colleagues to support you in your efforts! They can join your team or help by making a quick secure online donation. If you are starting a team, begin by recruiting up to 15 members to join you on event day and help pull the plane!

There’s nothing wrong with a little healthy competition,  so teams will compete for:

•  Fastest Pull
•  Slowest Pull
•  Most Team Spirit
•  Best Costume

The Foundation’s mission remains as vital today as it did when the movement was founded in 1968. Special Olympics Florida’s year-round programs in health, education, community building and sports address inactivity, injustice, intolerance and social isolation by encouraging and empowering people with intellectual disabilities. Special Olympics programs allow athletes to overcome these challenges and give them an opportunity to participate in their community, strengthen their abilities, and become champions! By “pulling” for athletes, you are helping reach and support more people who want to be a part of life changing programs.

Date: Saturday, September 29, 2018
Registration: 9:00 AM | Start: 10:00 AM
Address:
Palm Beach International Airport
1000 James L. Turnage Blvd
West Palm Beach, FL 33415

For more info visit: www.cardioflextherapy.com

Shoulder Injuries and Frozen Shoulder by CardioFlex Therapy

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There are many reasons why the shoulder is one of the most delicate and frequently injured joints in the human body. First of all, the shoulder is the 2nd worst lever system in the body, next to the hip joint. Because a person’s arm is so long, and the shoulder is so small, then it’s probably the worst lever in the body, taking everything into consideration. Additionally, the shoulder has an intricate ball and socket joint formation, which allows almost a “free” range of motion that spans up to 180 degrees. Some people that have hyper-mobile joints may actually be able to move their shoulders over the 180 degrees, as well.

There are many delicate ligaments and tendons that connect the shoulder joint together. Among the most delicate are the Rotator Cuff muscles and tendons.  The Rotator Cuff consists of 4 muscles and tendons that run continuous, the Supraspinatus, Infraspinatus, Subscapularis, and Teres Minor. The Shoulder capsule itself is part of the joint around the shoulder and contains the Labrum, a cartilage ring for cushioning, and is attached to the biceps tendon for additional stability.  Because of all these complicated and intricate structures combined with a poor level system, the shoulder is especially vulnerable to being injured.

Read more about this in our blog by clicking above.

Vestibular Rehabilitation & Maneuvers eliminate Positional Vertigo & BPPV

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Over the past 6 years CardioFlex Therapy has successfully treated hundreds of vertigo patients, and assisted them in eliminating their dizziness. I want to share some concepts of how to use Vestibular Rehabilitation to get maximum results for Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV) patients.

Diagnosis
The first step in getting rid of dizziness begins with a solid diagnosis. Does the patient have a peripheral or a central problem? What causes the patient to get dizzy? Is there any spinning vertigo with the dizzy episodes? Patients that have Meniere’s Disease or other chronic conditions will get recurring bouts of dizziness, so helping them resolve each episode quickly will be the best case scenario for those individuals.

Central Vertigo involves brain and spinal cord lesions such as tumors, cysts, surgeries, scar tissue, and degeneration. Neuromuscular disorders such as Multiple Sclerosis, Ataxia, Stroke, & Parkinson’s Disease can affect the cerebellum in the brain, causing gait and balance disturbances as well as severe vertigo. Peripheral Vertigo is typically considered to be caused by anything not in the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord). Much of the time, Peripheral Vertigo is synonymous with Positional Vertigo (BPPV).

To truly diagnose the vertigo as peripheral, the patient must have a brain MRI to rule out central involvement. A Hallpike Dix test and a Supine Roll Test are performed to see if the patient has Positional Vertigo on the left side, the right side, both sides, or not at all. Positional Vertigo (BPPV) is caused by displaced otoconia, commonly called crystals, which tend to get stuck in the 3 semicircular canals. The Hallpike Dix Test will be positive if crystals are stuck in either the Anterior or Posterior canals. The Supine Roll Test will be positive if crystals are stuck in the Horizontal canals.

Eye tests need to be conducted with and without head movement to see if there is a visual sensory-in component. In other words, if a patient gets dizzy from visual tests with or without head movement, then there is probably a visual sensory-in pathway which can trigger the symptoms at any time, usually seen with severe vertigo. If the patient gets any nystagmus (spinning vertigo), then they have a sensory-out component through their eyes, and are more likely to have a sensory-in component as well.

Treatment
At CardioFlex, we believe in a concept that we call “Repetitive Maneuvers.” We believe that several maneuvers should be performed in each treatment session in order to clear the crystals out of the semicircular canals, and become free flowing like they were before getting stuck. There are several maneuvers that we like to use in our sessions to clear the crystals, such as the Brandt-Daroff Maneuver, the Semont Maneuver, Epley’s Maneuver, and the Barbeque Roll Maneuver.

Read more about Vertigo in our blog by clicking above.