http://peakptandwellness.com/ Peak Physical Therapy & Wellness - Blog RSS Feed 2.0 en-us Sat, 11 Apr 2026 08:56:45 GMT Sat, 11 Apr 2026 08:56:45 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/userfiles/1240/images/stretching%2Dg1995c9476%5F640%2Ejpg http://peakptandwellness.com/ http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/22748/Stretching-with-your-Denver-Physical-Therapist blog Are you interested in reducing your risk of injury? We here at Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness can help! While there are many ways to reduce the likelihood you may become injured, stretching is beneficial for so many reasons. Sitting down, standing up, and other movements are often made without a second thought. Though we don't think about it, all of these actions engage our muscles in different ways. Increasing overall flexibility by stretching will help keep these motions fluid while also preparing your muscles and body for more strenuous activity. Here at Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness we have a plethora of services that incorporate stretching. Below are some  stretches that are beneficial for your body as well as our services which include a stretching regimen. First we will mention static stretching and to note, there are plenty of static stretches to choose from. These movements require little space and are incredible to start warmups while also working towards increased flexibility. Sitting down or standing, a few of our favorites include: forward fold, gentle reaches for the sky, arms over the head both left and right leaning, cross body arm stretches, sitting toe reach with legs together as well as toe reaches with legs apart, and butterfly or cobblers pose. If you decide to do all of these, most major muscle groups will be engaged and start to loosen up for more intensive stretching or other activities!  While all of these movements may not require assistance, sometimes a prop can help you maintain positions longer or alleviate uncomfortable pressure if some are too intense. In our return to sports training services we often highly advise modified stretches and movements. A main prop we would recommend is often referred to as a "block" in yoga. This can be any firm rectangular item such as a dictionary or even a folded up towel. The reason this prop is beneficial is because it brings the ground closer to you or lifts you further from it. Creating different angles with our bodies can feel more natural and comfortable which is what we want! Do not press yourself too hard. Instead of reducing your chances of injury through stretching you might be causing more harm to your muscles and joints. An incredible low impact activity while moving is going for a walk. While walking, try taking different sized strides. Larger or smaller steps engage the leg muscles differently and will also get your brain working a bit harder. Try swinging your arms more but in a controlled manner or let the rhythm of your step take the lead. Movement is good for our muscles. If we don't use them we lose them as the saying goes.  A few other stretches that can be done statically or as you begin to move include: lunges (there are lots of variations), high kicks (forward and crossbody), high knees, butt kicks, and walking with toes pointed towards the sky or on the outsides of your feet. With mild impact on  the joints, these motions in movement can help build readiness for any activity or to begin the day. Come in for an injury risk assessment and we can advise what stretches would be most beneficial for you! Whether an athlete or an everyday person, stretching can help prevent injury and increase muscle and joint range of motion. Stop into one of our locations or schedule an appointment online today to speak with one of our physical therapists and see what may be best for you!   Thu, 11 Aug 2022 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/22748/Stretching-with-your-Denver-Physical-Therapist http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/22749/Why-Flexibility-Matters-with-your-Denver-Physical-Therapist blog Movement is what our bodies are for. If we didn't need to walk, run, talk, jump, etc then there would be no need for our intricately designed muscular system. In order to move with ease, our muscles require a certain degree of flexibility. Why is flexibility important? We will discuss some of the reasons here. Injury Prevention Flexibility plays a large role in the range of motion of our muscles. As flexibility increases, risk due to run of the mill injuries decreases. This is because our bodies can move in a less rigid manner allowing more fluid transition between positions and activities. If you have ever tried to run or play a game without warming up, you may be familiar with slight pain or less mobility than you are used to. Stretching engages our muscles and promotes flexibility. Highlighted in OrthoInfo by the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons is a list of stretches that promote flexibility. Here at Peak Physical Health and Wellness we also recommend a number of these activities to our clients to improve flexibility and promote injury prevention. Improve Balance Balance and flexibility are tightly intertwined. Every muscle in our body is connected in some manner. As we engage in activity and work on total flexibility, we are strengthening those connections and working through tightness. A study published in the Journal of Sports, Science, and Medicine indicated a noticeable improvement in balance where the control group was concerned. In this study, individuals who did 50 minute sessions of activity twice weekly had increased balance compared to their counterparts. Muscle and Mental Longevity Almost no one yearns for a shorter life. Flexibility is incredible for maintaining a stable muscular system and along with that, strengthens the mental. When humans are restricted it wears on the mind. Not being able to function as you once could can cause unwanted mental strain. Maintaining a level of flexibility is important to how we move about our daily lives; from reaching to crouching, flexibility plays a role. An article written in Harvard Health showcases the importance of flexibility in our everyday lives. Are you looking for more mobility? Do you desire increased flexibility and everything that comes with it? Reach out to us today or visit one of our many metro offices. We here at Peak Health and Wellness strive to help you live healthily and happily. Don't hesitate, give us a call today!   Thu, 11 Aug 2022 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/22749/Why-Flexibility-Matters-with-your-Denver-Physical-Therapist http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/22686/Manual-Therapy-with-your-Denver-physical-therapist blog We love our activities, sometimes a little too much. Muscle stiffness and soreness are not uncommon post workout or whatever the exertion. Here at Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness, we have a range of services to help tired muscles as well as those in pain. Manual Therapy is one option. Manual Therapy is great for targeted diagnosis and treatment. Certain techniques can increase range of motion, decrease myofascial restrictions, as well as reduce swelling and inflammation. Using hands-on techniques our physical therapists will help improve the stability of your muscles and facilitate movement to improve their function. Pain reduction comes along with other benefits from Manual Therapy. Using a range of techniques involving the manipulation and mobilization of muscles and joints, our physical therapists can target your sources of pain. By developing a treatment plan tailored to your needs we can help improve your range of motion while decreasing pain.  Our hands are just about the original tools. Thanks to specific training, our physical therapists can use these tools to reduce tension and allow muscles to move more freely by encouraging blood flow. Using such techniques in tandem with therapeutic exercises, often leads to the best results and decrease of myofascial restriction. Visit one of our offices today or contact us here to see how manual therapy can help you! Fri, 27 May 2022 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/22686/Manual-Therapy-with-your-Denver-physical-therapist http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/22680/Tips-from-your-Denver-physical-therapist-on-how-to-keep-hydrated- blog The summer heat can be brutal here in Denver, it is important to stay hydrated! Here are a few tips on how to keep yourself hydrated, not only this summer, but all year round. Drink water We will say it again. Drink water! It is recommended the average person consumes eight 8 ounce glasses of water daily. That is 64 ounces total! Depending on the individual, more or less might be sufficient. Take notice of how your body feels. Knowing the signs and your symptoms of dehydration can key you in on when to drink more water. Which leads us to our next tip. Track your consumption Count how many glasses you drink a day. It is easy to forget to drink water sometimes. Tracking your consumption is a great way to stay on top of your hydration. A great tool to help you track is a reusable water bottle! Set goals to have consumed a specific amount of water by a certain time of day. Achieving these goals is rewarding mentally, and physically. Try to drink one 32oz bottle before lunch and another before dinner. Meeting the daily recommended amount while setting general consumption guidelines this tip is one of our favorites. With water bottles in mind, let us take a look at our next tip. Plan for later No matter the excursion, we recommend taking water with you. Having fluids on the go is a reminder to drink them and it will keep you more hydrated than if you didn't have them, obviously. While many of us love the outdoors, warm water isn't the most refreshing. If you're going to be out in the heat but detest drinking warm water, tip: make your water bottle into an ice cube. Fill the bottle halfway, or a little under, and close the lid. Next, tilt the bottle on its side and toss it in the freezer. Some hours later you will have one solid ice cube. This is advantageous because it melts slower than multiple cubes, keeping your water cooler longer. Set your bottle the night before your activity and you are definitely good to go! Foods  While drinking water is the best way to hydrate, it has been found that about 20 percent of our water intake comes from the foods we consume. Summer time is the perfect time to gorge yourself on tomatoes and leafy greens with strawberries on the side. Though it's not the most effective way to hydrate, consuming these foods and others like cucumbers and apples is a tasty way to fill your body with nutrients and more water. Along with tasty ways to hydrate, another tip we have is to add flavor to your water! Flavor Adding fresh fruits and vegetables or liquid and powder based additives can be a yummy way to make water more appealing.  Try to stay cool Though easier said than done, regulating your body's temperature can be a helpful way to stay hydrated. Dress and accessories can help you sweat less throughout the day minimizing the liquids you lose.  Lastly, again, drink water! Your body will thank you as will your physical therapist. We hope you have found these tips helpful and hydrating! Reach out to us here if you are interested in learning about our services and to work with our physical therapists today. Tue, 17 May 2022 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/22680/Tips-from-your-Denver-physical-therapist-on-how-to-keep-hydrated- http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/22655/Are-you-at-risk-of-injury--Your-Denver-physical-therapist-can-tell-you blog Few things are more inconvenient than an unexpected injury. Whether a professional athlete or simply someone who enjoys activity, our bodies are important. While we here at Peak physical therapy and wellness offer recuperative services, we also provide injury preventative programs as well! Employing two different systems, we are able to determine your ability and risk of injury. Our ultimate goal is to provide you with an exercise plan that will keep you moving and unharmed. What do we do? Previous to developing a plan, we utilize either FMS (Functional movement screening) or SFMA (Selective functional movement assessment) to gain a better understanding of your current physical state. Both of these systems provide a snapshot of your current range of motion and can be used to help build total body fitness through specified exercises. FMS Functional Movement Screening This screening is useful when establishing a starting point and realistic goals for total bodily health. A system that assesses different functional movements, many professional organizations including the MLB, NFL, and NHL utilize FMS. Looking to build strength and speed while also instituting corrective movement patterns? Start here with us and FMS, we will aid you in decreasing your risk of injury while improving your overall health. SFMA Selective Functional Movement Assessment A more indepth movement assessment, this system is used to determine significant medical problems in targeted areas. SFMA is employed when FMS is not enough. Providing more prescriptive examinations it aids our physical therapists in identifying the source of pain as well as the potential cause.  Post assessment or screening your physical therapist will provide an action plan including things like stretches, exercises, and stationary practices. We recommend a follow up to reassess your movement and determine the success of the initial plan. So, before you experience pain or injury, let us help. We want to minimize injury and the negative complications our guests could experience. Mobility is a gift that we want to ensure we can keep on giving. Reach out to us today to schedule an appointment! Thu, 14 Apr 2022 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/22655/Are-you-at-risk-of-injury--Your-Denver-physical-therapist-can-tell-you http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/22650/Keeping-your-edge-this-winter-with-your-Denver-physical-therapist blog Athletes know that no matter the time of year, maintaining their fitness is crucial to being prepared for the next season. It takes a lot more than going to the gym and not skipping leg day to keep in shape! Here are some tips from your Denver physical therapist to staying fit as well as some services we offer to help you along the way! Firstly, your body can only perform as well as what you put into it. The cliche "you are what you eat" is scarily accurate. This is because the body's natural systems function better when fed specific vitamins and minerals. For example: Vitamin A keeps vital organs working properly such as your heart, liver, and lungs and Vitamin C helps boost the immune system. While vitamin supplements are available, you lose out on the additional nutrients you'd receive from eating them in food form. The next time you're compiling your grocery list, take a look at these important vitamins and minerals and what foods they reside within. Consider meal planning and add a few items into your cart to enrich your meals and body today. Beyond the consumption of foods rich in vitamins and minerals, sleep is very important to overall health. Without a solid sleep schedule you can be left drained before the day has even begun. A report by the CDC, recommends 7 hours a night minimum for people aged 18 and up. Throughout these seven hours your body moves through four different stages of rest. The first and second stages are your body's way of entering and then settling into your sleep. These first two stages usually last about 30 minutes total followed by the third stage of NREM or, non rapid eye movement. This third stage is where you experience your deepest sleep. Your body starts to physically repair itself as your blood pressure drops and breathing slows. This is the sleep we are trying to achieve for our body's sake. When it comes to dreams, they are present in the last stage, when you enter REM (rapid eye movement) sleep. Here the body is completely relaxed while the brain awakens thus leading to dreams. These stages repeat throughout your sleep until you eventually awaken, usually, refreshed. When your body is well nourished and reseted it is much easier to engage in any day to day activity. Doing workouts feels easier as your muscles are more equipped to deal with the strain put upon them. One last great way your Denver physical therapist recommends to maintain your fitness is to engage in low impact activities such as swimming or yoga. This helps you balance out more strenuous engagements by realigning and recuperating your body.  Here at PEAK Physical Therapy, beyond recommending activities best suited for your fitness maintenance needs, we look at and use both FMS (Flexible Manufacturing System) and SFMA's (Selective Functional Movement Assessment). These help inform our physical therapist on how to best help shield your body from potential damaged joints and muscles. Contact us today here to get into one of our clinics; whether looking to begin your fitness journey or maintain it, we have got you covered! Wed, 13 Apr 2022 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/22650/Keeping-your-edge-this-winter-with-your-Denver-physical-therapist http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/22621/Dizzy--Don-t-be--Your-Denver-physical-therapist-is-here-to-help blog Are spells of dizziness all too familiar? Do you move your head or stand up and the room starts to spin? You may suffer from a vestibular system disruption or disease. No need to fear, we have got your back here at Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness. What is the vestibular system? It is a sensory system that provides the brain with information about body position and is responsible for balance. Located in the inner ear, a little snail shell-like looking bunch of membranes and canals is the key to our postural reflexes and eye movements. For reference, look at something, then move your head. We can move with ease and react to our surroundings thanks to the vestibular system! Though it is mostly protected from external factors, we will note a few that disrupt the system and how we can help. Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) and Meniere's disease are two common vestibular diseases directly linked to causing vertigo. Although there is no specific cause of BPPV it can be attributed to severe blows to the head. It is one of the most common causes of vertigo. Vertigo is the feeling of dizziness that can come after slight changes in head position or larger movements like standing up or rolling over in bed. Meniere's disease is another ailment of the vestibular system. This disease affects only one ear and can lead to hearing loss as well as dizziness.  Complications to the vestibular system are not one to be taken lightly. We here at Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness want to help you! That is why we offer specialized physical therapy to reduce debilitating symptoms of vestibular diseases like vertigo.  Our Vestibular Therapy begins with a patient analysis to ensure we can offer the best and proper care. After an evaluation of your balance, gait, as well as head and eye movement, our physical therapist will develop a treatment program.  This program will outline exercises for improving form, balance, and function which can be used to relieve your symptoms of dizziness.If you are interested in an appointment, reach out to us here, today! Thu, 24 Mar 2022 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/22621/Dizzy--Don-t-be--Your-Denver-physical-therapist-is-here-to-help http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/22584/Women-s-Health-and-Wellness-with-your-Denver-physical-therapist- blog As we approach national Women's History Month we here at Peak Therapy and Wellness want to highlight the women's health options we have available. Do not hesitate to reach out if you have any doubts about your health, we are here to help! We want to ensure you are the healthiest and best feeling that you can be. Women's health is a broad term that can be applied to a plethora of ailments dealing with the woman's physique. From prepubesent to post menopausal we have a variety of services to assist you with anything you may need. A few common symptoms our clients experience include but are not limited to: pelvic pain, low back pain, pain with intercourse, postpartum pain, and prolapse to name a few. None of these are discomforts to feel ashamed of or fear asking for assistance with. Our trained physical therapist will work with you continuously until your situation improves and you are feeling like a million bucks!  As mentioned there are many possible complications that can arise in women's health and we want you to know that we have got your back! One of the most uncomfortable and unnerving complications women may face is prolapse. This is when the uterus begins to protrude outside of the vagina. This is caused when the pelvic floor muscles and ligaments weaken and stretch, they are no longer able to hold your uterus in place. There are varying degrees of prolapse and not all require surgical correction. This is something that can happen to women of all ages and is nothing to fear, rather, an issue that can be remedied with exercise alone if caught soon enough!  There are many other pelvic health problems and help options that we can aid you with! Are you or someone you love experiencing an overactive or uncontrollable bladder? Few things are more irritating than the consistent feeling of possibly wetting yourself. Car rides, travel of any kind, even just a meal out can feel unbearable. We here at PEAK want to keep you out of the restroom and engaged in your activities! Our physical therapists are trained to offer the best treatment and support options to help you feel better. Other issues we can help you conquer are constipation, irritable bowel, pelvic inflammatory disease, abdominal pain, prenatal and postpartum discomfort, and weak abdominal muscles to name a few. Get in with us today to start on your healing or preventory journey! We have offices located throughout the Denver area and want to service you to the best of our abilities. Looking for a location near you? Look no further, click here to locate the closest office and reach out today to get an appointment! Fri, 04 Mar 2022 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/22584/Women-s-Health-and-Wellness-with-your-Denver-physical-therapist- http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/22558/Love-to-run--Let-you-Denver-physical-therapist-help-you-run-longer blog Running is an inherent ability to all of us who can move the lower half of our bodies without impediment. In order to survive humans used to follow prey for distances many cannot imagine today. To eat you had to catch your meal; in present times running is a lifestyle more than a life or death situation. While there are professional athletes who run for fame and glory, there are also individuals who simply enjoy the activity. No matter where you fall within this spectrum, we here at Peak Health and Wellness want to keep you running as long as possible. Let our team help you, come in for a running analysis! If you have been running for a while you can probably feel it. That is because over time, running can deteriorate the cartilage in your knee joints and can cause minute fractures in your bones. These ailments are often referred to as runners knee and shin splints and though you cannot regain cartilage without surgery, you can move your body in a manner that does not negatively impact it as much. Though running can have some negative impacts on the body, a study spanning more than 15 years that was completed in 2014 indicates running can also improve a runner's overall health! Averaging 50 minutes of running a week the study shows you can increase your lifespan by three years and reduce all-cause mortality risk by around 30 percent. As you can see, running can both benefit you as well as cause some pain. That is why we want to ensure you are running properly and can continue to do so as long as you please! What does a running analysis look like with us? We offer a comprehensive review of your running form through a close video analysis of your running! Are you looking to move more efficiently, take time off of your splits, run farther, or just simply not be in as much pain while running? These are all accomplishable with a better understanding of your running gait and form. We look for both musculoskeletal and biochemical impairments that may contribute to pain or lessened performance and then develop a plan to minimize these issues. Once we have established a plan to decrease your pain and improve your performance we will reassess your corrected form. Beyond offering an improved running regiment we offer a plethora of other services which also aid in pain reduction and muscle movement. To name a few: dry needling, therapeutic exercises as well as manual therapy and soft tissue mobilization! Don't hesitate to reach out to us and begin your wellness journey today, until then here are a couple tips for before and after your run. Previous to running, do some mobile stretches. While static stretches (stretches while remaining stationary) are a great way to get your body limber; the movement accompanying will best prepare your muscles for the strain you will soon put on them. Think of your muscles like rubber bands, if you try to use them when cold there is a much higher risk of damage than if you were to attempt then they are warmed up. Another great tip for any exercise is to make sure you are hydrated. Important before and after a workout water helps your body operate at its highest level. A final tip for post run is to do some cool down exercises. Do not sit down immediately even though you may feel as if you want to. We recommend a little jog. Continuing to move and use your muscles allows lactic acid that has built up to be somewhat flushed out which will help with soreness later on. Visit us for more tips and a solid plan on how to keep you running as long as possible! Fri, 18 Feb 2022 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/22558/Love-to-run--Let-you-Denver-physical-therapist-help-you-run-longer http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/22538/Increasing-mobility-with-your-Denver-physical-therapist blog Movement is essential to an athlete. At the base of any sport, matter of fact just about anything, an action that must be made in order for a result to be obtained. Sharks cannot breathe unless they are moving, plants move with the sun to live, and a bat must be swung in order for there to be a home run. Having a full range of motion is what an athlete needs in order to thrive in a competitive environment. Here at Peak Physical therapy and Wellness we offer services to aid you in recovery and increasing your mobility. Every sport demands a certain level of strain on specific muscles. Pitches rely on their rotator cuffs and to soccer players, their hamstrings and acls are precious. When these muscles are injured or torn they cannot function at the same caliber as they once did. At least not for a while. When muscles repair themselves, just like the skin, a scar is left. This is a patch, a cover, a stand in for what was once there. Scars on the muscle can lead to restrictions in the soft tissue which result in a loss of movement; in order to work through the scar tissue we employ a method that is called the Graston technique. This is also often represented as an acronym IASTM which stands for Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Manual therapy which we will go into below. IASTM: Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Manual therapy  There are many different forms of manual therapy, at Peak PT we use the Graston Technique as mentioned above. This technique uses specialty hand held instruments to work through your soft tissue by rubbing and scraping across the skin over the affected area. The act of scraping helps loosen the scar tissue and also rearranges the structure of the tissue to encourage circulation and a strengthened growth pattern. If you suffer from achilles tendinitis, carpal tunnel, rotator cuff tendinitis, neck or back pain, shin splints or joint swelling to name a few, then this technique is for you. Used in the treatment of many professional athletes, this technique is regarded as one of the best ways to rehabilitate damaged tissue. You can also work towards increasing your mobility at home! While you need us for the proper Graston Technique, staying hydrated and engaging in low to no weight activities will keep your muscles limber. Keeping your muscles active will lessen the strain they receive as you begin to work towards operating at full capacity again!  Connect with us today to begin your journey to recovery and a more mobile life. Our main focus here at Peak Physical Therapy and wellness is your wellbeing. Whether it be swimming with the sharks or swinging for the fences; using the Graston Technique our physical therapists will work with you to get there. Mon, 14 Feb 2022 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/22538/Increasing-mobility-with-your-Denver-physical-therapist http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/22542/Pain-is-a-pain--let-your-Denver-physical-therapist-help- blog From mild discomfort to knockout migraines, pain is annoying if not debilitating. Though a life without it seems like it would be amazing, pain is actually a very important bodily response. Connected to one of our five senses, touch, pain is like an alert system for our bodies. Our nervous systems sense an unknown feeling and contact the brain about a potential problem. Without this natural response system, we as humans would be much less aware of dangers and potentially harmful situations. There is a saying "pain is only temporary" sadly, this is not always the case. There are two types of pain, acute pain is more brief and often happens suddenly after injury or as a result of sickness or disease. Chronic pain on the other hand is a lasting pain that may never go away. Below we will dive into these two different types of pain and what we here at PEAK physical therapy and wellness can do to help you!  Types of pain Acute pain As mentioned above, acute pain is often felt fairly immediately and for a "short" duration of time. A scraped knee, headache, upset stomach, to name a few, are all considered to be acute pains. If you are one of our more physical athletes participating in sports such as boxing or jiu jitsu, you have probably taken blows to the head and body. These instantaneous bursts often heal fairly quickly however, because of them you are probably very familiar with acute pain. If you have ever been knocked in the head and are experiencing pain, reach out to us! We want to ensure your best living without unnecessary pain. We can assess your injuries and offer a best plan of action to get you feeling your best!  Chronic pain A kind of pain that lasts. Chronic pain can be characterized as a discomfort lasting weeks to months to years. It can begin as an infection or an injury that never heals properly. While chronic pain might stay with you, here at PEAK physical therapy and wellness we have some great rehabilitative services to minimize your pain to the best of our abilities. Have you ever had issues with your jaw or other facial movements? You might suffer from a disorder called temporomandibular disorder or (TMD). The temporomandibular joints are what connect our lower jaw to the skull and they allow us to open and close our mouths amongst other things. When these joints work properly we hardly take notice however, if something is awry you will definitely know. Have you ever suffered from sinus pain, jaw pain, or headaches? Myofascial pain, degenerative joint disease, and dislocated joints all can be related to TMD. Going too long without treatment can be detrimental and lead to more severe and painful problems as time continues.  We at PEAK physical therapy and wellness want you to always feel your best and while pain is a part of life, it doesn't have to stop it! Reach out to us today and see what services we offer to help combat this discomfort! Mon, 14 Feb 2022 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/22542/Pain-is-a-pain--let-your-Denver-physical-therapist-help- http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/22508/The-four-stages-of-sleep-and-their-importance-from-your-Denver-physical-therapist blog Everything accomplished in a day is possible because of the sleep achieved the night before. Some of the major systems that keep us alive, our respiratory, cardiovascular, and digestive systems to name a few, are impacted by the amount of sleep we receive. When recovering from a sports injury the body and mind need time to rest and recover as well. Sleep is not one thing, rather four stages that cycle to form what most consider to be sleep. Within these four stages our bodies are able to repair themselves from the previous day's labors and prepare us for the day ahead. Whether for an athlete searching for the best route to recovery or someone interested in living their healthiest life, sleep is of the utmost importance. Here is some information on all four stages of the sleep cycle and why they are critical to our daily functions. acronyms to know NREM: non-rapid eye movement, also called quiet sleep REM: rapid eye movement, otherwise known as active or paradoxical sleep  The Stages NREM Stage 1 The beginning of sleep. In the NREM Stage 1 you transition from being awake to sleeping, this all usually lasts about five to ten minutes. While in stage 1 your brain begins to slow and with it follow your eyes' movement, heartbeat, and breathing.  NREM Stage 2 In NREM Stage 2 you become less aware of your surroundings and eye movement completely stops. As your breathing and heart rate even out, body temperature drops and the brain begins to produce sleep spindles. They are believed to be associated with memory consolidation, which is the creation of memories through gathering, processing, and filtering the previous day. Lasting about 20 minutes, this stage is a preparatory for those to follow.. NREM Stage 3 NREM Stage 3 is the most restful of all the stages; your muscles are relaxed fully, breathing slows and blood pressure drops. This is where we experience our deepest sleep; also known as delta sleep. Our brain waves slow, becoming delta waves and while in this stage it is very hard to be awakened. The body takes this tranquil time to begin its physical repairs and the brain consolidates declarative memories, things you have learned throughout the day, general knowledge, personal experiences and such. NREM Stage 3 is the key to us feeling rested and ready for the day to come. REM Sleep Before coming into REM sleep, you first dip back into the preparatory NREM Stage 2 rest. Stage 2 accounts for about half of all the time we spend sleeping as it is a transition stage between others. After our bodies have gone dormant, the brain wakes up. Our breathing and eye movements are sped up and irregular, on scans the brain is lit up with activity. This can also be attributed to the fact that while in REM sleep, we experience dreams.  Cycling through the stages is how our bodies are able to fully rest. Now that we have covered each, you can see that sleep is critical to our body's overall functioning. After completing one sleep cycle, it begins again allowing us to recover from injuries and daily strain. We here at Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness want to help you live your healthiest life and get back to playing your sport as soon as possible! Reach out today for an appointment and let us help you begin your journey through recovery. Mon, 24 Jan 2022 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/22508/The-four-stages-of-sleep-and-their-importance-from-your-Denver-physical-therapist http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/22491/Pilates-vs-yoga--what-s-the-difference--Your-Denver-physical-therapist-is-here-to-help blog Here at Peak Physical Therapy we care about you and your physical health. We believe in the benefits and importance of low impact activities and subtle strengthening exercises. Practices like yoga and pilates are incredible ways to benefit both your body and mind. However, many people use pilates and yoga as if they were interchangeable when in fact, they are quite different. Below we've broken down the basics and origins of each practice, read through and discover which might be the better option for you! What is yoga? Yoga is a practice that focuses on bodily and spiritual healthing through the use of movement, meditation, and breath. There are six branches of yoga: Hatha, Raja, Karma, Bhakti, Jnana, and Tantra. These each focus on a different aspect of self betterment and health. Hatha yoga is the branch people are most familiar with knowingly or not; often used in physical therapy Hatha yoga uses the physical body. You may have heard of Vinyasas yoga, Power yoga, or Hot yoga, these are all different forms of Hatha yoga which can be used in recovery as well as preventative practice.  The History: Yoga is believed to be as old as civilization itself. In yogic lore Shiva is considered as the first yogi who passed down a vast amount of powerful knowledge to the seven sages or Saptarishis. These sages traveled throughout the globe taking the teachings and science of yoga with them. It was in India that the system of yoga we most often consider today took root. From 500 BC - 800 AD yoga was most fundamentally developed though it wasn't until 1100AD that Hatha yoga became established.  What is Pilates? Pilates is an exercise system meant for overall body conditioning and tone founded by Joseph Pilates. Primarily focused on isolating and strengthening certain muscle groups, this form of exercise is often used by dancers. Repetition and specific movement patterns are a defining characteristic of pilates and can be practiced for not only the strengthening of muscles but also recovery. While total body conditioning is the overall goal, much of the focus in pilates is directed at the body's core due to its direct impact on the totality of the body.  The History: A once sickly boy, Joseph Pilates was bound and determined to become strong and healthy. Upon the beginning of World War I, Pilates was an emigre living in Britain, considered a "German enemy alien" ; he was interned and worked as a nurse in a hospital. This is where he began to experiment with exercises patients could do from their hospital beds. From these experiments the Pilates reformer was created along with the system of repetitive motion and isolated conditioning. Post World War I Pilates moved back to Germany and worked alongside other pioneers in movement before moving to America in 1923. It was in New York where he opened his first studio with his wife Clara and the Pilates method of movement took off. We hope you have found this brief overview of the two exercises helpful! If you are looking to improve your physical health situation, reach out to us today. We have an extensive team of qualified physical therapists and specialists who care deeply about their clients and go above and beyond the call of duty to provide the highest quality treatment in the industry. If you are looking for a therapist who will carefully assess your individual needs and formulate a treatment plan that is specifically tailored to your needs, Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness is your preferred choice for the physical recovery process. Contact us today for more information. Thu, 13 Jan 2022 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/22491/Pilates-vs-yoga--what-s-the-difference--Your-Denver-physical-therapist-is-here-to-help http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/22476/Keeping-your-edge-this-winter-from-your-Denver-physical-therapist blog Athletes know that no matter the time of year, maintaining their fitness is crucial to being prepared for the next season. It takes a lot more than going to the gym and not skipping leg day to keep in shape! Here are some tips from your Denver physical therapist to staying fit as well as some services we offer to help you along the way! Firstly, your body can only perform as well as what you put into it. The cliche "you are what you eat" is scarily accurate. This is because the body's natural systems function better when fed specific vitamins and minerals. For example: Vitamin A keeps vital organs working properly such as your heart, liver, and lungs and Vitamin C helps boost the immune system. While vitamin supplements are available, you lose out on the additional nutrients you'd receive from eating them in food form. The next time you're compiling your grocery list, take a look at these important vitamins and minerals and what foods they reside within. Consider meal planning and add a few items into your cart to enrich your meals and body today. Beyond the consumption of foods rich in vitamins and minerals, sleep is very important to overall health. Without a solid sleep schedule you can be left drained before the day has even begun. A report by the CDC, recommends 7 hours a night minimum for people aged 18 and up. Throughout these seven hours your body moves through four different stages of rest. The first and second stages are your body's way of entering and then settling into your sleep. These first two stages usually last about 30 minutes total followed by the third stage of NREM or, non rapid eye movement. This third stage is where you experience your deepest sleep. Your body starts to physically repair itself as your blood pressure drops and breathing slows. This is the sleep we are trying to achieve for our body's sake. When it comes to dreams, they are present in the last stage, when you enter REM (rapid eye movement) sleep. Here the body is completely relaxed while the brain awakens thus leading to dreams. These stages repeat throughout your sleep until you eventually awaken, usually, refreshed. When your body is well nourished and reseted it is much easier to engage in any day to day activity. Doing workouts feels easier as your muscles are more equipped to deal with the strain put upon them. One last great way your Denver physical therapist recommends to maintain your fitness is to engage in low impact activities such as swimming or yoga. This helps you balance out more strenuous engagements by realigning and recuperating your body.  Here at PEAK Physical Therapy, beyond recommending activities best suited for your fitness maintenance needs, we look at and use both FMS (Flexible Manufacturing System) and SFMA's (Selective Functional Movement Assessment). These help inform our physical therapist on how to best help shield your body from potential damaged joints and muscles. Contact us today here to get into one of our clinics; whether looking to begin your fitness journey or maintain it, we have got you covered! Tue, 04 Jan 2022 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/22476/Keeping-your-edge-this-winter-from-your-Denver-physical-therapist http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/22474/Happy-and-Healthy-this-Holiday-season--Physical-Therapy-Denver--CO blog It's that time of the year where all are gathering in festive cheer. Whether travelling to visit your loved ones or enjoying some solo relaxation, we want to keep you feeling your best! As we stuff our faces with delicious dishes we can amass a little fluff, however, sometimes we swell up not due to what we consume but because of systems within our bodies. This can be caused by lymphedema. Lymphedema is a condition that causes limbs to become enlarged due to tissue swelling. Improper drainage of protein-rich fluids leads to this ballooning effect; it can develop when you have lymph nodes removed or if your lymphatic vessels are damaged. This condition often affects arms and legs however it can occur in other places as well. While all can suffer from lymphedema, commonly cancer patients experience this swelling due to having lymph nodes removed or damaged while in treatment. At PEAK Physical Therapy and Wellness we offer a range of services and Lymphedema Treatment is one of them! You can view patient forms here to fill out and submit inorder to get into one of our offices today! Lymphedema treatment can look like a multitude of things as it is a condition that is not curable. From movement to massage, physical therapy is shown to drastically decrease symptoms you may experience. While enjoying your holidays, you don't want to be plagued with a lack of mobility or an infection. Our specially trained physical therapists will work with you to create a treatment plan to help you stay happy and healthy.  Briefly, some of the options: Regular lymphatic massages  Swelling is caused by a lack of drainage throughout your lymphatic system. A regular massage schedule for your afflicted areas will encourage drainage and keep those protein-rich fluids from building up so quickly. Exercise Another great way to encourage drainage is to engage in light physical activity. The gentle contraction of your muscles will help your lymphatic system keep the fluids moving. Compression garments Keeping your extremities compressed also helps with drainage. While you can grab a compression sleeve from the store, it is best to see your physical therapist. This is because it is important to get the proper amount of compression for your needs. You can cut off blood flow or end up not compressing enough to encourage drainage if you try to assess yourself. These are just a few possibilities for a lymphedema treatment regimen with us. As you work with our specialist you may find certain things help you more than others. That is great! Please give us feedback as to how your journey to staying happy and healthy is going. We care about you and your wellbeing, not only during the holidays but year round! Contact us today to get into one of our offices near you! Mon, 03 Jan 2022 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/22474/Happy-and-Healthy-this-Holiday-season--Physical-Therapy-Denver--CO http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/22402/The-Reasons-Why-Your-Mental-Health-Matters-This-Holiday-Season-From-Your-Parker-Physical-Therapist- blog Improving the quality of your life can require careful attention to your behaviors and habits, as they can make up the sum totality of your overall health situation. Whether it is practicing proper stress management techniques, getting enough regular sleep, or simply working out regularly, there are a number of things a person can do to remain fit and physically well for as long as possible. One of the best ways of improving the quality of one's life is to remain physically active, as the health benefits are numerous and cover a number of different areas of one's life. With that in mind, here are some of the things you can do to improve your health in a proactive way this holiday season. Your Mental Health Can Significantly Affect Your Physical Health Many people assume that their mental health is secondary to their physical health because it can be overlooked and not have any serious negative ramifications. This obviously couldn't be further from the truth, as mental health issues can affect every other part of your health. Stress can be both a mind killer and a body-killer, as it can shorten your lifespan and lead to other chronic health conditions. You don't want to rely on being able to solve every problem in your physical body by overlooking mental health issues. The simple fact is, this is a recipe for having many other health problems, making it important to prioritize this as a result. Your Mental Health Is a Huge Part of Your Quality of Life Another aspect of why your mental health is so important is how it can affect your overall quality of life. If you are successful financially and don't have many physical health problems, a mental health issue can still completely derail your life. Whether it is depression, addiction, or any other serious condition, mental health disorders can do a lot when it comes to making your life a living hell. For this reason, you will definitely want to think about ways you can address your mental health issues instead of suppressing or compartmentalizing them, as this is a recipe for pain and not what you want. If you are looking to improve your physical health situation and are in need of physical therapy due to an accident or other physical ailments, contact Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness today and we will be happy to assist you with your first steps towards recovery. We have an extensive team of qualified physical therapists and specialists who care deeply about their clients and go above and beyond the call of duty to provide the highest quality treatment in the industry. If you are looking for a therapist who will carefully assess your individual needs and formulate a treatment plan that is specifically tailored to your needs, Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness is your preferred choice for the physical recovery process. Tue, 23 Nov 2021 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/22402/The-Reasons-Why-Your-Mental-Health-Matters-This-Holiday-Season-From-Your-Parker-Physical-Therapist- http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/22325/The-Strategy-to-Live-a-Long--Healthy-Life-From-Your-Denver-Physical-Therapist blog Improving the quality of your life can require careful attention to your behaviors and habits, as they can make up the sum totality of your overall health situation. Whether it is practicing proper stress management techniques, getting enough regular sleep, or simply working out regularly, there are several things a person can do to remain fit and physically well for as long as possible. One of the best ways of improving the quality of one's life is to remain physically active, as the health benefits are numerous and cover a number of different areas of one's life. With that in mind, here are some of the things you can do to improve your health proactively. Go To Regular Checkups With Your Doctor As we age, it is important to make sure you are not going to be dealing with any serious or significant health issues. One of the best ways to be proactive about anything serious is to attend a physical with your doctor, who can help you stay on top of the things that are a threat to your health. By getting regular advice from a trusted expert, you can rest easier knowing you are doing what you need to do to avoid serious issues. This is a great way to keep your health long into your life. Eat Healthy, Exercise Often If you want to maintain your health as you age, one of the best ways to do this is to eat healthy, fresh foods and exercise often. It's important to eat less processed food and eat whole food. Vegetables, fruit, and natural sources of grain and protein make up the foundation of a healthy diet, something you can consult with a trusted nutritional expert who can guide you in this process. You need to think about all of the ways you can stay healthy, including exercising regularly. You need to think of activities you love in order to make this process easier. You shouldn't just sit back and think you don't need to get outside and stay active, as this will lead you to a decline in health over time.  If you are looking to improve your physical health situation and need physical therapy due to an accident or other physical ailments, contact Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness today and we will be happy to assist you with your first steps towards recovery. We have an extensive team of qualified physical therapists and specialists who care deeply about their clients and go above and beyond the call of duty to provide the highest quality treatment in the industry. If you are looking for a therapist who will carefully assess your individual needs and formulate a treatment plan that is specifically tailored to your needs, Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness is your preferred choice for the physical recovery process.   Mon, 18 Oct 2021 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/22325/The-Strategy-to-Live-a-Long--Healthy-Life-From-Your-Denver-Physical-Therapist http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/22306/Here-Are-Some-of-The-Best-Ways-to-Take-Proactive-Actions-With-Your-Health-From-Your-Denver-Physical-Therapist blog Improving the quality of your life can require careful attention to your behaviors and habits, as they can make up the sum totality of your overall health situation. Whether it is practicing proper stress management techniques, getting enough regular sleep, or simply working out regularly, there are a number of things a person can do to remain fit and physically well for as long as possible. One of the best ways of improving the quality of one's life is to remain physically active, as the health benefits are numerous and cover a number of different areas of one's life. With that in mind, here are some of the things you can do to improve your health in a proactive way. Develop a Regular Exercise Routine One of the best ways you can maintain your health is to develop a regular exercise routine to stick to. It is always said that exercising is one of the most important parts of a healthy lifestyle, making it absolutely essential to develop an exercise routine that is going to keep yourself accountable. A routine allows a person to stay on task, even if they may not want to head to the gym or practice a regular routine. This is not something you should underestimate, as you can make it much easier to have a regular time and day that you work out as a way to keep yourself accountable. Stretch Often and Regularly It is also said that one of the best things you can do to prevent injury and maintain your health is to stretch regularly. Stiff and inflexible muscles are a recipe for dealing with a serious injury, something you shouldn't have to deal with if you simply engage in regular stretching. This is also true for people who work out regularly as well as people who don't. Regardless of whether or not you are exercising regularly, you should consider stretching as a way to improve your health and avoid injury. Instead of being inflexible and prone to injury, you should take the necessary steps to stay healthy and keep your body in top shape. If you are looking to improve your physical health situation and are in need of physical therapy due to an accident or other physical ailments, contact Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness today and we will be happy to assist you with your first steps towards recovery. We have an extensive team of qualified physical therapists and specialists who care deeply about their clients and go above and beyond the call of duty to provide the highest quality treatment in the industry. If you are looking for a therapist who will carefully assess your individual needs and formulate a treatment plan that is specifically tailored to your needs, Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness is your preferred choice for the physical recovery process.   Mon, 04 Oct 2021 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/22306/Here-Are-Some-of-The-Best-Ways-to-Take-Proactive-Actions-With-Your-Health-From-Your-Denver-Physical-Therapist http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/22275/Here-s-What-You-Need-to-Do-To-Stay-Limber-as-You-Age-From-Your-Parker-Physical-Therapist blog Improving the quality of your life can require careful attention to your behaviors and habits, as they can make up the sum totality of your overall health situation. Whether it is practicing proper stress management techniques, getting enough regular sleep, or simply working out regularly, there are several things a person can do to remain fit and physically well for as long as possible. One of the best ways of improving the quality of one's life is to remain physically active, as the health benefits are numerous and cover several different areas of one's life. With that in mind, here are some of the reasons why you should get outside as much as possible. Don't Overlook The Importance of Getting a Small Amount of Physical Activity Each Day When a person retires, they may be looking forward to endless days of not needing to move or exert too much energy. This can be especially true if a person was a manual laborer throughout their life. While this may seem like an attractive option, it's not advisable as it will lead to a much faster health decline. By being stationary, you hurt many different levels of your health, including your physical health, your mental health, and your health as a whole. You shouldn't simply rest easy once you're retired or getting older, as your body thrives on movement and being used regularly if you're going to maintain your health and well-being into old age. Like many Denver physical therapists will tell you, you need to consider implementing a regular walking routine at the very least to improve circulation and reduce the chances of falling. By doing this, you will improve your chances of aging gracefully and maintaining your ability to remain healthy and mobile into your old age. Seeing as falls are one of the most common ways a person will struggle as they age, doing everything you can to prevent this from happening is strongly advised in favor of. The more you do now and the more you continue to do as you age, the better off you will be. If you are looking to improve your physical health situation and need physical therapy due to an accident or other physical ailments, contact Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness today and we will be happy to assist you with your first steps towards recovery. We have an extensive team of qualified physical therapists and specialists who care deeply about their clients and go above and beyond the call of duty to provide the highest quality treatment in the industry.  If you are looking for a therapist who will carefully assess your individual needs and formulate a treatment plan that is specifically tailored to your needs, Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness is your preferred choice for the physical recovery process.   Thu, 09 Sep 2021 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/22275/Here-s-What-You-Need-to-Do-To-Stay-Limber-as-You-Age-From-Your-Parker-Physical-Therapist http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/22218/The-Reason-You-Can-t-Rehab-On-Your-Own-From-Your-Denver-Physical-Therapist blog Improving the quality of your life can require careful attention to your behaviors and habits, as they can make up the sum totality of your overall health situation. Whether it is practicing proper stress management techniques, getting enough regular sleep, or simply working out regularly, there are several things a person can do to remain fit and physically well for as long as possible. One of the best ways of improving the quality of one's life is to remain physically active, as the health benefits are numerous and cover a number of different areas of one's life. With that in mind, here are some of the reasons why you should get outside as much as possible.   You Don't Know All of the Specific Exercises and Stretches That Can Expedite Your Recovery If you're dealing with a serious chronic health issue, one of the things that can be extremely beneficial for you is to attend regular physical therapy sessions with a trusted physical therapist in Denver. Instead of trying to tackle it on your own, you should seriously consider working with a trusted professional who will know the types of exercises and stretches that can be extremely helpful for you when you are trying to rehab. The best strategy for speeding up your rehab process is to utilize the services of trusted professionals who will be able to help guide you toward your specific goals. Instead of simply guessing your way back to health, working with a trusted physical therapist in Denver can make this a much more helpful and expedited process. You shouldn't have to go it alone when you are trying to rehab from a serious injury and working with someone can be especially beneficial for you. Not only will you be able to gain valuable exercises and stretches from this process, but you will also have someone who can guide and monitor your progress as you take the steps toward your recovery. You need to have someone who can make sure you are doing things the right way if you are going to get back to where you need to be in terms of your health. If you are looking to improve your physical health situation and need physical therapy due to an accident or other physical ailments, contact Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness today and we will be happy to assist you with your first steps towards recovery. We have an extensive team of qualified physical therapists and specialists who care deeply about their clients and go above and beyond the call of duty to provide the highest quality treatment in the industry. If you are looking for a therapist who will carefully assess your individual needs and formulate a treatment plan that is specifically tailored to your needs, Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness is your preferred choice for the physical recovery process. Thu, 05 Aug 2021 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/22218/The-Reason-You-Can-t-Rehab-On-Your-Own-From-Your-Denver-Physical-Therapist http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/22163/The-Benefits-of-Getting-Outside-For-Your-Health-From-Your-Denver-Physical-Therapist blog Improving the quality of your life can require careful attention to your behaviors and habits, as they can make up the sum totality of your overall health situation. Whether it is practicing proper stress management techniques, getting enough regular sleep, or simply working out regularly, there are a number of things a person can do to remain fit and physically well for as long as possible. One of the best ways of improving the quality of one's life is to remain physically active, as the health benefits are numerous and cover a number of different areas of one's life. With that in mind, here are some of the reasons why you should get outside as much as possible. Improves Your Mental Health A fantastic reason to consider going outside, whether it be a hike in the park, a stroll through your garden, or simply meeting up for friends in the park is the fact that it is beneficial for your mental health. Staying inside all day without seeing the sun can eventually lead to depression and cause you to be less optimistic about your life. In turn, you will likely be getting less exercise and will be prone to getting ill, both physically and mentally. Getting outside reconnects us with nature and grounds ourselves with the things that can make us feel more sane. Staying inside all day is likely to make a person restless, stressed, and lead to more feelings of hopelessness.  Vitamin-D Boost Another important reason why you should consider getting outside as much as possible is the fact that the sun will provide you with a life-giving chemical for your body, that being vitamin D. You absolutely need to think about the ways in which you can improve your physical health, especially after the pandemic that has disrupted our lives over the last year. Vitamin D is a vitally important thing to have proper levels of in your body if you are to have a functioning immune system. Lower levels of vitamin D can lead to depression and a compromised immune system which can make a person much more susceptible to dealing with a disease or illness, making it important to take a step outside.  If you are looking to improve your physical health situation and are in need of physical therapy due to an accident or other physical ailments, contact Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness today and we will be happy to assist you with your first steps towards recovery. We have an extensive team of qualified physical therapists and specialists who care deeply about their clients and go above and beyond the call of duty to provide the highest quality treatment in the industry. If you are looking for a therapist who will carefully assess your individual needs and formulate a treatment plan that is specifically tailored to your needs, Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness is your preferred choice for the physical recovery process. Wed, 30 Jun 2021 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/22163/The-Benefits-of-Getting-Outside-For-Your-Health-From-Your-Denver-Physical-Therapist http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/22102/Why-Regular-Stretching-Can-Do-Wonders-For-Your-Health blog Improving the quality of your life can require careful attention to your behaviors and habits, as they can make up the sum totality of your overall health situation. Whether it is practicing proper stress management techniques, getting enough regular sleep, or simply working out regularly, there are a number of things a person can do to remain fit and physically well for as long as possible. One of the best ways of improving the quality of one's life is to remain physically active, as the health benefits are numerous and cover a number of different areas of one's life. With that in mind, here are some of the biggest benefits of Vitamin D from your Parker physical therapist. It Helps to Keep You Limber and Can Prevent Injury Perhaps one of the biggest reasons you should regularly stretch is the possibility it can help you to prevent injury. If you are engaged in regular physical activity, whether it be running, biking, or any other exercise regimen, you should consider stretching on a regular basis. If you remain stagnant and don't conduct regular stretching exercises prior to working out, you will be much more at risk for dealing with a serious injury as your body will be much less flexible and able to deal with stress. You shouldn't just overlook the benefits of stretching, as you will be in a bad position to deal with any physical issue that may occur to your as a result.  It Can Help Keep Your Body Young As You Age One of the biggest things people will deal with as they get older is the fact that they feel much less flexible and limber. Stretching can address issues, whether it be in your back, your neck, or any other part of your body that can become tense and tight over time. Instead of just waiting for these conditions to occur, you should seriously consider discussing the types of exercises and stretches that can help you stay young and keep your agility as you age. A trusted physical therapist in Parker and Denver can help provide you with this information and make the process of aging a smoother process. If you are looking to improve your physical health situation and are in need of physical therapy due to an accident or other physical ailments, contact Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness today and we will be happy to assist you with your first steps towards recovery. We have an extensive team of qualified physical therapists and specialists who care deeply about their clients and go above and beyond the call of duty to provide the highest quality treatment in the industry. If you are looking for a therapist who will carefully assess your individual needs and formulate a treatment plan that is specifically tailored to your needs, Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness is your preferred choice for the physical recovery process.   Mon, 24 May 2021 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/22102/Why-Regular-Stretching-Can-Do-Wonders-For-Your-Health http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/22082/The-Benefits-of-Vitamin-for-Your-Health-From-Your-Denver-Physical-Therapist blog Improving the quality of your life can require careful attention to your behaviors and habits, as they can make up the sum totality of your overall health situation. Whether it is practicing proper stress management techniques, getting enough regular sleep, or simply working out regularly, there are a number of things a person can do to remain fit and physically well for as long as possible. One of the best ways of improving the quality of one's life is to remain physically active, as the health benefits are numerous and cover a number of different areas of one's life. With that in mind, here are some of the biggest benefits of Vitamin D from your Parker physical therapist. Vitamin D Helps Your Body Regulate Calcium and Phosphorous When it comes to the ingestion of absorption of vitamin D through natural means, whether it be the sun or taking relevant supplements, one of the biggest benefits for your physical health is the fact that vitamin D helps with your bone health. It does this by regulating the absorption of calcium and phosphorous in the body, two minerals essential for bone health. Weak, fragile bones can create a serious disruption to your health, especially as you age. Whether you decide to take supplements or spend enough time outside, vitamin D is an essential ingredient to keeping yourself healthy as you age. Vitamin D is Important For Normal Immune System Functioning As the last year has shown, having a healthy and resilient immune system is especially important if you are to be able to fight off viral or bacterial illnesses. A hugely important part of this is to have regular and consistent levels of vitamin D in your system, something that can help you defend yourself against an infection. In order to receive the necessary amount of vitamin D needed to have a healthy immune system, you will want to have a blood test performed to analyze your current levels of vitamin D. A big part of being vitamin D deficient can come from not having enough sunlight or using too much sunscreen, which can prevent your body from absorbing the sun's rays. If you are looking to improve your physical health situation and are in need of physical therapy due to an accident or other physical ailments, contact Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness today and we will be happy to assist you with your first steps towards recovery. We have an extensive team of qualified physical therapists and specialists who care deeply about their clients and go above and beyond the call of duty to provide the highest quality treatment in the industry. If you are looking for a therapist who will carefully assess your individual needs and formulate a treatment plan that is specifically tailored to your needs, Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness is your preferred choice for the physical recovery process. Thu, 13 May 2021 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/22082/The-Benefits-of-Vitamin-for-Your-Health-From-Your-Denver-Physical-Therapist http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/22053/Why-You-Should-Start-Exercising-Today-For-Your-Health blog Improving the quality of your life can require careful attention to your behaviors and habits, as they can make up the sum totality of your overall health situation. Whether it is practicing proper stress management techniques, getting enough regular sleep, or simply working out regularly, there are a number of things a person can do to remain fit and physically well for as long as possible. One of the best ways of improving the quality of one's life is to remain physically active, as the health benefits are numerous and cover a number of different areas of one's life. With that in mind, here are some of the biggest benefits to staying active from your Parker physical therapist. Obesity is a major factor in Covid-19 During the last year, health has become especially important as the coronavirus pandemic has swept across the world. Taking the necessary precautions has been a crucial part of keeping ourselves safe, but it's important to be reminded of the proactive measures and steps you can take to improve the quality of your health. One of these steps you should definitely start taking is to regularly workout. Improving your physical health can be an a life-saving step, one that can go a long way towards reducing the chances of being negatively affected by Covid-19. Exercise can be a potent measure to take at reducing many negative health outcomes, Covid-19 included. Research has shown that obesity is a major factor in those who have died or been hospitalized by Covid-19, making it critically important that you start exercising regularly. Not only will your chances of coming down with an illness be reduced, but you will also feel better physically and mentally day-to-day. Many people have a hard time being motivated to take action for the long-term benefits of a particular habit, which is why it is important to also focus on the short-term benefits of exercise as well. By working out, you will notice an improvement in your physical stamina as well as your overall mood. Taking the step to workout is something every person should start doing today and you should do it for all of the possible reasons.  If you are looking to improve your physical health situation is and are in need of physical therapy due to an accident or other physical ailments, contact Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness today and we will be happy to assist you with your first steps towards recovery. We have an extensive team of qualified physical therapists and specialists who care deeply about their clients and go above and beyond the call of duty to provide the highest quality treatment in the industry. If you are looking for a therapist who will carefully assess your individual needs and formulate a treatment plan that is specifically tailored to your needs, Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness is your preferred choice for the physical recovery process. Mon, 03 May 2021 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/22053/Why-You-Should-Start-Exercising-Today-For-Your-Health http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/22030/Why-Doing-Yoga-is-a-Proactive-Step-to-Take-For-Your-Health blog Improving the quality of your life can require careful attention to your behaviors and habits, as they can make up the sum totality of your overall health situation. Whether it is practicing proper stress management techniques, getting enough regular sleep, or simply working out regularly, there are a number of things a person can do to remain fit and physically well for as long as possible. One of the best ways of improving the quality of one's life is to remain physically active, as the health benefits are numerous and cover a number of different areas of one's life. With that in mind, here are some of the biggest benefits to regularly practicing yoga from your Parker physical therapist. Benefits Your Mental Health as Well as Your Physical Health Many people view yoga as an activity that can benefit your physical body through the many stretches and activities that can help you retain your physical health. But yoga is not just for your body, as it is just as important for your mind. This is why you will notice yoga classes will constantly remind students that they need to focus on their breath, as being in the moment and practicing mindfulness is one of the most critical components of practicing yoga.  Yoga can provide you with the necessary grounding to keep you healthy and free of stress. Much has been said about the benefits of meditation for mental health, which is why yoga is another extension of the fact. You need to keep in mind how your body can work with your mind, determining what needs to be done to maintain the proper level of balance between the two. Yoga Can Improve Your Blood Flow We all know that exercise can be extremely beneficial for your health, but yoga is also something that can boost your overall physical health levels. One of the most important parts of being healthy is to have the correct level of blood flow throughout your body, as heart disease can be one of the biggest threats to your health if you aren't careful. For this reason, yoga can be a powerful tool to utilize if you are wanting to retain and improve your current level of health. If you are looking to improve your physical health situation and are in need of physical therapy due to an accident or other physical ailments, contact Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness today and we will be happy to assist you with your first steps towards recovery. We have an extensive team of qualified physical therapists and specialists who care deeply about their clients and go above and beyond the call of duty to provide the highest quality treatment in the industry. If you are looking for a therapist who will carefully assess your individual needs and formulate a treatment plan that is specifically tailored to your needs, Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness is your preferred choice for the physical recovery process. Thu, 22 Apr 2021 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/22030/Why-Doing-Yoga-is-a-Proactive-Step-to-Take-For-Your-Health http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/22006/Here-s-Why-Seeking-Physical-Therapy-Can-Be-Beneficial-For-Anyone blog The act of locating the best Denver physical therapist can be a challenge, as there are seemingly endless numbers of clinics to sift through in order to find the one that fits your needs. Oftentimes, you will be looking for a clinic after a serious accident and perhaps insurance will play a key role. Or perhaps you will have to pay out of pocket and you will be looking for a clinic that not only fills your specific injury needs but will also provide you with affordable services. Unfortunately, physical therapy can often be an expensive service to utilize, as clinics must meet their own financial needs during the course of business. If you're looking for ways to remain healthy during stressful and uncertain times, you should seriously consider having a Denver physical therapist at your side to guide you back to full health. It Can Improve Improve Your Mobility Many people associate going to physical therapy with either being elderly or experiencing a serious injury. As a result, many people overlook the potential positives of going to a Denver physical therapist, some of which can be a big part of proactively addressing your health. Seeing a physical therapist in Denver can provide you with increased mobility, as they can work with you on specific exercises that can boost your mobility. Having an increase in mobility can improve your overall health, as you will be much more prepared to deal with any injuries or physical stress that may arise in the future. Improve Your Balance If you engage in a physical sport or regular activity, you will want to have the right amount of balance if you are going to stay healthy and avoid injury. Seeing a physical therapist in Denver can help to provide you with the necessary skills to maintain your balance and reduce the possibility of falls which can lead to serious injury. Physical therapists can provide you with a series of exercises that can improve coordination and equilibrium, something which can lead to an increase in balance and improve your ability to stay on your feet when exercising.  If you are in need of physical therapy or have questions about what physical therapy consists of, contact Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness today and we will be happy to assist you with your first steps towards recovery. We have an extensive team of qualified physical therapists and specialists who care deeply about their clients and go above and beyond the call of duty to provide the highest quality treatment in the industry. We work directly with our patients to formulate the best way forward and to make sure your recovery is our number one priority. If you are looking for a therapist who will carefully assess your individual needs and formulate a treatment plan that is specifically tailored to your needs, Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness is your preferred choice for the physical recovery process. Fri, 09 Apr 2021 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/22006/Here-s-Why-Seeking-Physical-Therapy-Can-Be-Beneficial-For-Anyone http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/21996/-Tips-From-Your-Aurora-Physical-Therapy-Team-to-Help-Prevent-Runner-s-Knee blog Running is one of the most effective cardio workouts out there. But it comes with a few potential safety issues that can make the sport more challenging at best and lead to potential injury at worst. The most common problem runners face isn't sprained ankles or overdeveloped muscles. It's runner's knee. The condition leads to serious pain in and around your knee and that pain can leave you wondering if seeking physical therapy in Aurora, CO, is in your best interest. Luckily, runner's knee is something you can easily prevent. Here are a few tips to help you keep your knees in good shape so you can run pain-free for years to come. Stretch Before and After Your Run The best way to prevent muscle strain and knee pain is to stretch both before and after your run. This will help loosen your muscles up and make it easier for your legs to maintain their full range of motion while you're exercising and after you recover. Push each stretch until you feel some discomfort but stop if you start to feel pain. Stretching shouldn't hurt at any time. If it does, you'll want to schedule an appointment with your physical therapy team as soon as possible. Pushing yourself too far, too fast, can end up making the muscle strain worse and aggravate your runner's knee pain in the long run. Start Weight Training A.S.A.P. One of the biggest contributors to knee pain is under-developed muscles. When you lack the strength in your legs, glutes, and core, all the strain caused by running gets absorbed by the most vulnerable muscle groups. This increases your risk of knee pain over time and, if you're not careful, can lead to more serious injuries that can end your running career before it gets started in earnest. Make strength training a priority. Work with a personal trainer and tell them about your goals and concerns. They'll be able to design a strength training program that will strengthen your knees and the supporting muscle groups to help you prevent injuries and overuse in the future. Ice Your Knees as Needed The sooner you can catch runner's knee, the better off you'll be. And the sooner you can ice the soreness away, the less inflammation you'll experience around your knees and the faster they'll heal. As soon as you start to feel soreness or discomfort after you cool down, ice your knees. Use a gel ice pack that you can shape around your knee or place ice cubes in a large zipper bag and wrap it with a towel. Ice your knees for 10 to 15 minutes and see how they feel. You may need to ice them several times a day for a few days to get rid of the pain and inflammation. Switch up Your Cardio on the Regular Runners all have one thing in common: an intense love and passion for the sport. But that love of running can actually make your knees worse. Instead of trying to run every day or getting your cardio workouts by running alone, change things up.  Hop on a bike and get your heart pumping that way. Speed walk around your neighborhood, go swimming, or use an elliptical trainer at your gym. These exercises use different muscle groups and take some of the strain away from your knees without forcing you to forego your normal cardio workout.  You might even find that you enjoy a different type of exercise just as much as running! Drink Plenty of Water  Believe it or not, hydration is one of the most important things you can do for your entire body. It helps your muscles stave off soreness and can prevent injuries as long as you make it a priority. Get in the habit of drinking plenty of water during and after each run you take.  The better hydrated you are, the easier it will be for your body to recover and the less likely you'll be to develop runner's knee.  Use the Right Shoes Running shoes exist for a reason. They put your body in the right position with each stride and help you maintain proper alignment even on uneven terrain. But all running shoes aren't identical. You need to choose a pair that provides you with the type of support you need to thrive.  Head to your local running supply store or shoe store and ask for advice. Many local stores offer running analysis to help you find the right type of shoe for your feet. They'll be able to assess your gait and identify any issues that could contribute to an increased risk of injury so you're aware of those issues and can correct them as you train. Make Rest Days a Priority  Pushing yourself too hard, too fast is a simple way to end up hurting yourself. You need to take days off from your running routine even when you don't feel like you need to. Prioritize rest days each week and give muscles a break.  Now, you don't have to spend rest days sitting on the couch binging your current TV obsession. You can find ways to recover while staying active. Go for a hike. Run through a yoga routine. Take a walk around the block. Whatever it is, it counts as a rest day as long as you're not using the same muscles that you use on your runs.  Avoiding Runner's Knee Is Possible Even a minor case of runner's knee can leave you limping for weeks. Keep these tips in mind and you'll be able to prevent that troublesome knee pain with ease throughout your running career. If anything happens down the road or you're already dealing with a case of runner's knee, don't try to fix it on your own. Schedule a consultation at your closest physical therapy location and get treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you start working with a physical therapist, the sooner you'll start making improvements and can get back outside, pounding the pavement with confidence. Mon, 05 Apr 2021 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/21996/-Tips-From-Your-Aurora-Physical-Therapy-Team-to-Help-Prevent-Runner-s-Knee http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/21979/Aurora-Physical-Therapy-Team-Explains-the-Benefits-of-Meditation-for-Athletes blog As an athlete, you know that keeping your body in peak condition isn't always easy. Injuries can derail your progress and keep you from performing at all. And while your Denver physical therapy team is here to help you recover from your injuries and rebuild strength quickly, it's up to you to find ways to speed that recovery even further. One of the best things you can do for both your physical and mental health is to meditate. The practice is thousands of years old and has been proven to offer the following benefits to those that do it often. Improves Focus Meditation can actually help you concentrate and improve your focus every day. It does this by giving your mind a chance to relax and unwind by guiding your thoughts away from the worries, fears, and stressors you're constantly dealing with.  Contrary to popular belief, meditation doesn't involve focusing on absolutely nothing. Well, unless you want it to. That practice is known as Zen meditation and it's one of the hardest types of meditation for new practitioners to master. Most people choose to focus on the feeling of their breath or listen to a guided meditation that has them focus on different visuals, sounds, or sensations. You won't have to clear your mind. Instead, you'll guide your thoughts away from the things you're worried about. When you're done with your meditation session, your mind will have had a chance to relax and you'll be able to approach challenges with more clarity and focus.  Boosts Your Immune System Stress doesn't just impact your ability to focus. It can also weaken your immune system and make you more vulnerable to viruses, germs, and diseases. When you're trying to recover from an injury quickly, getting sick can make that recovery take longer than it should. Just imagine hurting your back, catching a cold, and making the injury worse just by sneezing! Meditating can help boost your immune system by helping alleviate feelings of stress and overwhelm. It's not a one-session-cure-all solution. It's something you have to take time to do each day. But even giving yourself a few minutes to focus on something other than your mind racing and worrying about situations and circumstances you can't control or change. When you do this anytime you start to feel stressed or overwhelmed, you'll keep yourself from falling into that stress-thought spiral which will give your immune system the opportunity to stay as strong as it possibly can.  Makes Dealing With Pain Easier Meditation can be an effective tool to help you cope with pain and discomfort without succumbing to feelings of anger and helplessness. It gives you a way to change your thought process and, as an added bonus, can help your muscles relax.  When your muscles are less tense, your injury will likely start to hurt less and, even better, may heal faster. It's not a substitute for physical therapy, but it can help you recover faster and makes your physical therapy more effective.  If you feel flareups of pain while you're recovering, the same meditation techniques you use to relax during sessions can help take the edge off. All you have to do is turn your thoughts to your breath or your chosen focus point. This allows you to relax and breathe around the pain, taking your attention away from the sensation of discomfort and redirecting it to something beneficial. Helps You Overcome Fear Performance anxiety is something that impacts even the most experienced professional athletes. And while it's normal to get a bit nervous before a competition, your fear shouldn't be overpowering your sense of confidence and self-esteem. Worse, once those feelings kick in, it's easy to let that fear build up until it's enough to keep you from performing successfully. By meditating, you'll refocus your thoughts on something you choose and away from those emotions. You can choose a meditation technique that has you focusing on a mantra to build your confidence or meditate on a successful race, focusing on the emotions you feel once you cross the finish line. You don't even have to carve out a set time to run through that meditation. Just turn your attention inward and away from your anxious thoughts as soon as they pop up.  Stabilizes Sleep Patterns Meditation is all about helping you feel more relaxed and comfortable. When you're recovering from an injury, it's normal for that injury and the stress you're dealing with to keep you up at night. Nothing is worse than racing thoughts that interrupt your sleep patterns!  Lack of sleep doesn't just leave you feeling sluggish in the morning. It also makes you more vulnerable to getting sick and makes it harder for your body to recover.  By meditating on a regular basis, you'll quiet those racing thoughts and relax the tension in your muscles that contribute to sensations of pain. Over time, you'll start to sleep better and wake more rested.  Keep in mind that seeing results from meditating to help you sleep can take time. Be patient with yourself and keep working at it. Eventually, you'll see an improvement in your sleep quality.  Makes Analyzing Your Performance Easier As an athlete, you need to constantly find ways to improve your performance. But when you're in the middle of a competition or so set in your routine, it's easy to turn a blind eye to the things you're doing. Meditating can help you turn your focus on yourself and identify the ways in which you can improve. You can replay your training sessions in your mind and analyze the things you did without being in the moment. This helps you better identify your weaknesses and your strengths so you can make the necessary changes to improve your game. Meditation With Physical Therapy Is Always Ideal If you're recovering from an injury, combining meditation with your routine physical therapy sessions can help you recover faster and more effectively. But you need to work with the right physical therapist. Contact our team to schedule a consultation today.    Mon, 29 Mar 2021 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/21979/Aurora-Physical-Therapy-Team-Explains-the-Benefits-of-Meditation-for-Athletes http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/21955/The-Ways-You-Can-Keep-Yourself-Healthy-From-a-Denver-Physical-Therapist blog The act of locating the best Denver physical therapist can be a challenge, as there are seemingly endless numbers of clinics to sift through in order to find the one that fits your needs. Oftentimes, you will be looking for a clinic after a serious accident and perhaps insurance will play a key role. Or perhaps you will have to pay out of pocket and you will be looking for a clinic that not only fills your specific injury needs but will also provide you with affordable services. Unfortunately, physical therapy can often be an expensive service to utilize, as clinics must meet their own financial needs during the course of business. If you're looking for ways to remain healthy during stressful and uncertain times, you should seriously consider having a Denver physical therapist at your side to guide you back to full health. Stay Active, Get Outside One of the best and most common strategies for staying healthy is to maintain a regular schedule of exercise. If you're attempting to exercise regularly, another great way to double your benefit from this activity is to do this outside. Working out outdoors provides you with both fresh air and plenty of sunshine, which will also provide you with plenty of vitamin D. A major factor in improving your health in many facets is related to improving your vitamin D levels which will significantly boost your overall physical health. Practice Good Self-Care If you want to stay healthy, one of the most important factors that people often overlook is to practice good self-care. Stress is a killer in many ways and individuals who do not prioritize their mental health will be setting themselves up for many health issues down the road. Make sure you are engaging in activities that bring you joy, as long as they are not unhealthy or unproductive. Whether that means getting outside and going on a hike, practicing a musical instrument, or spending time with friends and family, taking time for yourself during these times can be a great way to make sure you are prioritizing your health. If you are in need of physical therapy or have questions about what physical therapy consists of, contact Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness today and we will be happy to assist you with your first steps towards recovery. We have an extensive team of qualified physical therapists and specialists who care deeply about their clients and go above and beyond the call of duty to provide the highest quality treatment in the industry. We work directly with our patients to formulate the best way forward and to make sure your recovery is our number one priority. If you are looking for a therapist who will carefully assess your individual needs and formulate a treatment plan that is specifically tailored to your needs, Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness is your preferred choice for the physical recovery process. Wed, 17 Mar 2021 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/21955/The-Ways-You-Can-Keep-Yourself-Healthy-From-a-Denver-Physical-Therapist http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/21941/Ways-to-Get-Active-Around-Denver-This-Summer-From-Your-Denver-Physical-Therapy-Team blog Summer will be here before you know it and that means it's finally time to start thinking of ways to stay active when the weather is nice. Visiting a gym isn't always an option and, if you're like most Denver residents, spending the money on a gym membership just isn't worth the strain on your budget. Luckily, there are many ways to get active and in shape without having feeling like you're actively working out. Even better, those same activities can help you avoid needing help from your Aurora physical therapy team. Here are a few budget-friendly gym alternatives to consider participating in this summer. Start Biking Denver is lucky enough to have miles upon miles of bike trails that you can take advantage of throughout the year. Many of them are even cleared in the winter, so you can start using them regardless of the weather!  So, grab your bike and start riding. It doesn't matter what kind of bike you have. As long as it has two wheels and the tires hold air, you're good to go.  Start small, going just a few miles at a time until you build up stamina. Once you get used to biking on a regular basis and develop stronger leg muscles and endurance, you can even try commuting to work by bike. This type of exercise is a great low-impact alternative to running and can still get your heart rate up in no time. If you develop a true passion for the sport, you can always invest in a nicer bike that will help you stay more comfortable for more hours in the saddle. Go for Hikes Each Weekend Downtown Denver may be flat, but the mountains are just a short drive away. Use this to your advantage and start hiking each weekend. Pick trails close to home for easier routes and, as you get stronger and in better shape, look for more challenging routes a bit further away from home. Places like Estes Park and the I-70 corridor have hundreds of great hiking trails that will let you get deep into nature and away from the hustle and bustle of the city.  Just make sure to check the weather forecast before you leave home and always pack several layers. The higher you go in elevation, the cooler the days will be and you never know when a surprise rainstorm will leave you shivering by the time you get back to your car. Try Some TRX If you're already in decent shape and really want to build strength without adding tons of bulk to your frame, try running through some TRX routines. Our staff is on-hand to help you get started with this unique bodyweight workout method.  As a general rule, try to schedule an appointment with an experienced TRX instructor until you get the hang of the workouts and movements. Since you're not using stationary weight machines, you'll want someone to point out potential problems with your form until you get used to the way exercises are supposed to feel. Once you have a good understanding and body awareness in place, you'll be able to get a good workout in at home.  Run Through Yoga Routines in the Backyard Yoga is a great way to build strength while improving your flexibility and range of motion. If you're new to yoga, going to classes surrounded by other people can often feel a bit overwhelming. But contrary to popular belief, you don't have to go to classes to get a good yoga session in. All you need is an open space and an internet connection. Pull up a yoga routine on YouTube and run through the poses with the instructor on the screen. We recommend working out in your backyard since there's less risk of hitting your arms and legs on furniture as you run through poses.  If you don't have room to stretch out, feel free to modify the poses as needed. You can still get a good workout even if you have to keep your movements closer to your body. Hit the Stairs If you're looking for a real challenge or just want to be able to claim that you've finally done something on your Colorado bucket list, hit the stairs. The Manitou Incline outside of Colorado Springs has you gaining a whopping 2,000 feet of elevation as you climb, making it one of the most challenging workouts in the area. Just make sure to bring plenty of water. The last thing you want to do is get dehydrated while you're climbing. Go Paddleboarding The Denver area has tons of lakes that you can take advantage of and few activities are more fun and more challenging on the water than paddleboarding. Rent a stand-up paddleboard from your favorite outdoor equipment store and head to the lake of your choice. As you paddle, you'll be able to work on your arm strength, balance, and core strength at the same time. Even better, the activity feels like so much fun that you won't even think you're exercising. If, as you work out, you get overheated, all you have to do is sit on the board and drop your legs into the water. If that's not enough, you can always hop off the board altogether and enjoy the cool Colorado water on a hot summer day.  You can even rent paddleboards for the whole family and enjoy an afternoon on the lake together. Keep These Activities in Mind If you're looking for a great way to get active, these exercises are an ideal place to start. Pick one once the weather warms up and get your heart rate up. As you start to get in better shape, you can push yourself to try new activities or stay out for longer periods of time. If at any point you feel like you're not able to work out to your fullest potential due to an old injury, don't wait. Schedule an assessment with our physical therapy team and let us help you get on the road to recovery. Thu, 11 Mar 2021 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/21941/Ways-to-Get-Active-Around-Denver-This-Summer-From-Your-Denver-Physical-Therapy-Team http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/21614/Why-Getting-a-Running-and-Gait-Analysis-From-Your-Aurora-Physical-Therapy-Center-Is-a-Good-Idea blog As a runner, you know that your stride sets your pace and controls your stamina throughout every run. When it's great, you're able to keep up your pace for long periods of time without taxing your body. When it's less than ideal, your gait can leave you struggling to hit your times and keeps you from being able to go those long distances you used to handle with ease. Believe it or not, your gait can change as you age and as your muscles develop after you've established your running habit. By getting a gait or running analysis from your trusted Denver physical therapy provider, you'll be better equipped to understand and address those changes for the long run. Here are a few key reasons why getting a running analysis is a great idea for both amateur and semi-professional runners of all skill levels. Identifies Potential Problems When you undergo a running analysis, you'll run in front of an experienced physical therapist that knows what the human body is supposed to look like at all paces. They'll ask you to run on a treadmill and will analyze how you run. Through that analysis, they'll be able to identify certain parts of your stride that may cause problems down the line. This allows you to prioritize your training and make adjustments to avoid problems before they have a chance to develop. Over time and over the course of your running career, you'll be able to improve and avoid injuries that other runners might succumb to. Helps You Find the Right Shoes There's a lot to be said for running shoes. They control the amount of impact your muscles experience during each footfall and can reduce or cause pain the longer you run. Unfortunately, many runners end up choosing the wrong shoes for their running style, body, gait, or foot type and that can lead to serious problems down the line. The last thing you want to do is be in so much pain that you have to give up the sport you love. Part of your running analysis will involve looking closely at the shoes you wear on your runs and making sure they're the right fit for your stride. If they're not, your therapist will be able to assess the way your foot lands with each step and make the appropriate recommendations to help you find the best shoe possible.  Pinpoints Your Weak Areas Every runner has things they need to improve on. This helps them increase their pace, stamina, and avoid pain. When you're running on your own, you may be able to identify certain weak points and make the necessary adjustments to improve them, but you won't be able to seem everything at once. This makes it hard to fully improve your gait and your running style. When you schedule a running analysis, you'll be able to pinpoint where your weaknesses lie. Even better, you'll be able to use their knowledge to identify the exact exercises that will help you strengthen your weak areas so you can be a better and healthier runner in the long run. Lets You Know What You're Doing Right Many running analysis appointments focus almost entirely on what you're doing wrong and what you need to improve. Though those are important factors, you also need to know what you're doing right so you can keep doing it on all of your runs. During a professional running analysis, you'll find out exactly what you're doing that's working for your body and find ways to make sure you don't alter those movements when you address the weaknesses in your gait. This can make a huge difference when you're trying to maintain or improve your pace.  Helps You Break Through Plateaus If you've been running for a while, you've likely encountered at least a few plateaus on your journey. Plateaus happen when you can't seem to improve your pace, your gait, your stride length, or your general performance when you run. And they can happen without warning. If you've ever burst through a plateau on your own, you know just how hard it can be. When you schedule a running analysis, you'll have an expert working to help you overcome those plateaus quickly. With their analysis and advice, you'll find out what you can do to make improvements even if you feel like you've been stuck for months. Sometimes, all it takes is an outside perspective to find a different way to help you improve. Improves Your Time If you're a competitive runner, you know that the clock matters. When you can increase your pace, you'll edge out the competition and place higher in every race. On your own, you may find that improving your time is almost impossible. You're limited to making the changes that you can identify. With a running analysis, you'll be able to leverage someone else's experience to improve your time and make a huge difference in your performance. Reduces the Risk of Injury  Nothing derails a running career like an injury. Unfortunately, injuries can happen when you least expect them and when they do, it can take months for you to fully recover. That means months that you'll have to stop running and, worse, months of progress that you'll lose by being less active. When you work with a running analyst, you'll identify the movements that you need to change to avoid injury in the long run. This means you'll be on the road more often and won't have to worry about spending months on the couch dreaming about your next run. Schedule an Analysis Today Your running career is important whether you race or just do it because you love the feel of the wind in your face. Make sure you can enjoy the sport for years to come. Contact us to schedule a running analysis today and let our experts show you what you can do to improve your gait, lengthen your stride, and reduce your risk of injury so you can keep pounding the pavement without pain. Mon, 19 Oct 2020 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/21614/Why-Getting-a-Running-and-Gait-Analysis-From-Your-Aurora-Physical-Therapy-Center-Is-a-Good-Idea http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/21490/That-Pain-in-Your-Neck--Causes-and-Correction-Exercises- blog What's the Pain in Your Neck? With the amazing progressions in technology we have in the world life has become fast paced and focused! Unfortunately, this has also led to an increase of neck pain as well. Is neck pain normal? What is causing the pain to occur? What can decrease symptoms after they start? How does posture play into neck pain?   Is Neck Pain Normal? Common, but not normal. Though the majority of the population experience neck pain at some point in their life, neck pain is very avoidable and takes a few minutes of stretching and exercising a day to help decrease aching, soreness, and pain.   What is Causing the Pain to Occur? Depending on where the neck pain is, the problem could be coming from disk dysfunction, muscle/ligament sprain/strain, overuse, or increased stress. Degenerative changes can occur with age which decrease the space between each vertebra and can increase pressure on nerves or cause joints to lack the room needed to move comfortably. The muscles/ligaments can become sprained/strained through impacts and/or sudden movements, such as a car accident or fall. Overuse and increased stress can correlate and become present through bad posture, movement mechanics; including "forward head" posture, "text neck", always leaning to one side, or carrying a heavy purse/backpack/tool kit on one side. All of these can lead to not just pain in the neck, but down the arms and into the head as well.    What can Decrease Symptoms After They Start?  When it comes to neck pain completing some simple exercises can help improve the flexibility and relieve muscle tension to decrease irritation?    Upper trapezius stretch: Keeping your nose straight forward tilt your ear to your shoulder until a stretch is felt on the side opposite of the head tilt. Levator scapulae stretch: Rotate your head where you can towards one shoulder, then tilt your chin downward (moving your nose towards your armpit) till a stretch is felt opposite of the head tilt. Scapular retractions: Keeping your shoulders away from your head squeeze your shoulder blades together, hold and then relax. Do NOT pull out of the movement, just let it relax out to avoid reinforcing bad posture habits.  Speaking of which, check your POSTURE! Keep yourself from letting your chin drift forward or upward and avoid rounding your back out.    Important to remember: consult with a physical therapist or doctor to avoid injuries from occurring further. The best place to start is with posture corrections and setting up your work station ergonomically. How to Work on Your Posture?   What the picture above is demonstrating is how much stress and pressure goes through your ligaments and muscles in the neck when the typical "tv/desk" posture is assumed. Use strategies to remind yourself to posture up, keeping those shoulders away from your head and chest opened. Some ideas to try would include putting on a colorful bracelet and every time you see it have it be your reminder to stand/sit up tall. This can be extended to anything you see throughout the day; red light, white car, get an email/call/text, etc. Make it so you remember! Remember to refer to your doctor and physical therapist to collaborate and achieve your best outcome for pain reduction and functionality!      Picture reference: https://www.medlife.com/blog/text-neck-modern-day-neck-issue/#:~:text=and%20at%2060%C2%B0%20it%E2%80%99s%2028kgs.%20This%20strain%20causes%20additional%20pressure Thu, 03 Sep 2020 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/21490/That-Pain-in-Your-Neck--Causes-and-Correction-Exercises- http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/21413/Everything-You-Need-to-Know-About-Concussions blog Concussions are a hot topic now-a-days especially in sports. So what exactly are concussions, why is it important to treat concussions, and when should you seek additional help from a physical therapist? What are concussions? Concussions (now more commonly understood as mild traumatic brain injuries or mTBIs) are caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head, or even a hit to the body, that causes the brain to move quickly back and forth.  What are the symptoms of a concussion? Symptoms of a concussion include headaches, sensitivity to light, nausea/vomiting, dizziness, personality changes like aggression, difficulty concentrating, neck pain, difficulty with memory, and more.  Things like physical activity, trying to use technology, driving, even reading can be difficult and worsen symptoms. Are concussions common? Concussions are actually very common. Between 1.7 and 3 million concussions happen every year due to sports and recreation. That's not all! Even more occur from traumatic events like car accidents! About 50 percent of all concussions go unreported, which means that likely more than 50 percent go untreated. Concussions typically go unreported in sports because athletes don't want to stop playing but even if you're not an athlete the most common concussion comes from a fall. What can I do if I suspect I have suffered a concussion and how long is recovery? On average, the brain takes about 7 days to recover with adequate treatment. However, the worse the brain injury, the longer it takes to recover. Without any treatment at all, any concussion will take longer to recover.  Initially after a concussion, you'll want to rest. This means getting adequate sleep (7-10 hours at night) and short naps during the day (30 minutes).  Minimizing stimulation is important as it allows the brain to rest and recover. This means reducing screen time on your phone/tv/computer, reading, listening to loud music, and minimizing rigorous activity.    Next steps? Once your symptoms have improved/resolved, slowly integrating those activities back while keeping your symptoms minimal will help your brain re-acclimate. This progression will be tolerable for many concussions. However, depending on the severity of the symptoms and type of symptoms, the symptoms won't resolve on their own. This is the best time to seek more help.   If you've had a concussion, especially one with noticeable symptoms for long periods of time afterwards, you know how greatly it can impact your daily life. It is important to know that you do not have to just live with these symptoms and hope they go away. Physical therapy after a concussion (even months later) can help you return to your normal life faster. When looking for a physical therapist to help you, it is best to find a therapist who specializes in concussion rehab. We can use our training and skill set to help your brain recover and return you to the activities you love.  Tue, 28 Jul 2020 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/21413/Everything-You-Need-to-Know-About-Concussions http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/21309/4-Exercises-to-Help-Reduce-Knee-Pain- blog A big contributor to knee pain and instability (besides having degeneration of cartilage and/or cartilage) is muscle weakness in the gluteus medius (the top part of your butt!). The glutes (gluteus maximus, gluteus medius, and gluteus minimus) are the powerhouse muscles of the lower body. In order to better control your body when running, jogging, walking up and down stairs, etc is to make sure you perform stability exercises which include focusing on glute strength as shown in the videos. When the glutes are strong, the knee is stable. When the knee is stable, you experience less pain. MORE BANG FOR YOUR BUCK! The glutes also provide posture stability to the pelvis and lower back, and when they are strong, it takes stress off your lower back muscles and often reduces low back pain as well. Check out our Instagram for the 4 exercises to do to help with your knee or lower back pain! You can choose two, do 3 sets of 10 reps one day and do the other two exercises the next day! Fri, 19 Jun 2020 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/21309/4-Exercises-to-Help-Reduce-Knee-Pain- http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/21072/Are-Those-Aches-and-Pains-More-Than-Just-Aches-and-Pains- blog If you have random aches and pains, it can be a nuisance. But when do you know when an ache and pain is more than just a minor pain? When do you know your pain is actually osteoporosis? Osteoporosis is a bone disease, and while it can make life a little harder for you there are things you can do to make things a little easier. What is Osteoporosis?  Osteoporosis is a bone disease that causes bones to become brittle and thin - resulting in painful and injuries. Many women develop osteoporosis, including those with a thin frame or who are progressing through the aging process. However, physical therapists can help you treat and overcome the condition. If you or someone you know has developed osteoporosis, it can help to understand the many treatments that physical therapists can provide. Prevention While injuries from osteoporosis won't ever be 100% preventable, some of the best physical therapists in and around the Denver area can help you prevent injuries through physical therapy. Weak bones can impair your ability to function properly, inflict you with many bone fracture injuries, and prevent you from performing basic tasks. As a result, the preventative treatments of physical therapy are especially beneficial for osteoporosis patients. The therapy experts can provide advice to help you avoid injuries while maintaining a productive life and fulfilling daily functions. For instance, we can teach you how to use proper body mechanics, rotate your body, and lift objects without straining your spine. The sessions would also substantially improve your balance. We can help you maintain a steady and balanced posture, use proper walking techniques, and avoid falling down while standing or walking.    Exercises You can Try Today! Do you ever lose your balance? Hesitate before stepping off the curb? A simple exercise to try is simply standing on one foot! Every morning and every night while you brush your teeth spend one minute standing on each leg. First start out by holding the counter, then slowly progress to no assistnace. Over just a few weeks you will notice your balance starts to improve! There are a many different types of exercises that you can do that will help you to overcome the symptoms and struggles of osteoporosis. Some of these exercises are more complex than they appear and we recommend visitng your nearest Peak location to learn how to perform them properly and without pain. After you book an appointment, we at Peak can teach you a diverse range of stretch routines. The stretches can help treat the condition by relieving the pain, rehabilitating past injuries, and by increasing your flexibility to avoid future injuries. Several aerobic, resistance, and spine exercise routines can also help treat osteoporosis. The experts can guide you through exercise routines during the sessions and teach you routines that you can perform at home.   If you believe you are in need of osteoporosis treatment, be sure to contact Peak Physical Therapy & Wellness Our award-winning staff is proud to provide exceptional and personalized physical therapy treatment throughout Colorado. We can implement comprehensive treatments to help you rehabilitate from injuries, overcome the symptoms of osteoporosis, and maintain a happy and productive life.   Tue, 14 Apr 2020 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/21072/Are-Those-Aches-and-Pains-More-Than-Just-Aches-and-Pains- http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/21028/Stretches-Commonly-Prescribed-By-Your-Denver-Physical-Therapist-For-Runners blog The act of locating the best Denver physical therapist can be a challenge, as there are seemingly endless numbers of clinics to sift through in order to find the one that fits your needs. Often times, you will be looking for a clinic after a serious accident and perhaps insurance will play a key role. Or perhaps you will have to pay out of pocket and you will be looking for a clinic that not only fills your specific injury needs but will also provide you with affordable services. Unfortunately, physical therapy can often be an expensive service to utilize, as clinics must meet their own financial needs during the course of business. If you enter the offices of a Denver physical therapist for treatment, here are some of the common stretches they may recommend to you if you are a runner. Core Stretches Believe it or not, your core is one of the most important parts of your running game. Without a strong core, every other part of your body will be put under more stress, something that can lead to serious injuries and derail your chances of running that marathon you were hoping to compete in. A Denver physical therapist will likely recommend you stretch your core and will offer a series of stretches to help assist in this goal. These can include things such as back bends, hip flexors, upper body presses, lower trunk rotations, and cat backs.  Lower Body Stretches Of course, if you're a runner, the most important part of your body to keep limber, loose, and adequately stretched will be your lower body, as this will be the part that takes on the most stress during running. Flexibility will allow you to decrease the chances of sustaining an injury, as movement-oriented activities are aided by increased mobility and flexibility. Whenever you go for a run, it is important to perform exercises that improve your range of motion and warm up your muscles in the process. Muscles that are cold are resistant to lengthening and will not be as receptive to a stretch as a result. This is why practicing a warm-up exercise prior to stretching and then going on a run can be a major benefit to you. If you are in need of physical therapy or have questions about what physical therapy consists of, contact Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness today and we will be happy to assist you with your first steps towards recovery. We have an extensive team of qualified physical therapists and specialists who care deeply about their clients and go above and beyond the call of duty to provide the highest quality treatment in the industry. If you are looking for a therapist who will carefully assess your individual needs and formulate a treatment plan that is specifically tailored to your needs, Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness is your preferred choice for the physical recovery process.   Fri, 03 Apr 2020 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/21028/Stretches-Commonly-Prescribed-By-Your-Denver-Physical-Therapist-For-Runners http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/21000/Red-Flags-From-Potential-Denver-Physical-Therapy-Practices-You-Should-Take-Note-of blog The act of locating the best Denver physical therapist can be a challenge, as there are seemingly endless numbers of clinics to sift through in order to find the one that fits your needs. Often times, you will be looking for a clinic after a serious accident and perhaps insurance will play a key role. Or perhaps you will have to pay out of pocket and you will be looking for a clinic that not only fills your specific injury needs but will also provide you with affordable services. Unfortunately, physical therapy can often be an expensive service to utilize, as clinics must meet their own financial needs during the course of business. If you're searching for your next Denver physical therapist, here are some of the red flags that can present themselves during your search. The Physical Therapy Office Seems to Be Extremely Busy Typically, a business that is extremely busy with loads of clients or customers is a sign that you may want to frequent this establishment and utilize their services. While this might be true for certain businesses, it is not always the case with healthcare or physical therapy practices. This can be a sign that the business is extremely focused on getting as many clients as possible and billing for as many services as possible in the process. While a busy therapy practice can be a sign of its success, it can also mean that it is more focused on making money than it is on serving its client base. Therapy practices that have large client loads will inevitably be unable to provide the best possible service to its clients, making it a difficult practice to work with from a client's perspective. You should get a sense for how the physical therapy practice in Denver operates and what type of operation they are running to see if this type of practice will work well for what you need. While a well-oiled machine can allow for extremely high numbers of clients, a physical therapy practice that has too many clients will inevitably provide a lower level of care to the clients who need it the most. You may have your time cut short or get stuck in a room full of other clients performing similar exercises, leaving you to feel on the short end of the stick and not receiving the type of care and attention you may need.  They Don't Seem to Listen To Your Feedback In any recovery process, one of the most important components is the client's experience and perspective. This can often be overlooked by physical therapy offices who believe they know better than the client in every situation and will make you feel underappreciated. A good physical therapist is an expert in their field but is also able to work side-by-side with their client to develop an effective treatment plan for their client. This also includes listening to what the client needs and responding with respect instead of blatantly ignoring your needs and wishes. Remember, although the physical therapist may have the experience and knowledge, they are still serving you as the client. If you believe your physical therapist in Denver is not listening to your needs, you should consider leaving the practice and finding a physical therapist who will respect your perspective. A PT who is not taking the time to listen and respond to their clients is someone who is not flexible and not practicing proper bedside manners. It's important to work with someone who you feel respected by and who is your advocate with every step of the process, as it's important to achieving your treatment goals. Working with someone who ignores your wishes and doesn't respond in a timely manner is someone you shouldn't have to work with. They Seem to Be Milking You For Excessive Services Unfortunately, physical therapy practices can often place the importance of their business over your care as a client. This can mean that you are viewed as a means to make money instead of someone who desperately needs recovery exercises as much as possible. You shouldn't have to feel like you are a cow being milked for all of your potential billable services, no matter how helpful these services might be for you. If you've been in an accident and have insurance covering all of the costs for you, many practices will use this situation to recommend every possible treatment under the sun. This can include massage therapy, chiropractic services, and other services that may or may not actually be necessary for your recovery. A clear indication that your physical therapist is doing this type of practice is they continue to push these services on you after repeated denials on your part. While a physical therapy practice may have plenty of services to offer to its clientele in house, this does not mean you have to take advantage of all of these services or that it is something necessary to your recovery. Consider what is best for you whenever you are weighing the benefits of using these services. But remember: this is your recovery process and you shouldn't feel like you are simply a means to an end, especially if your physical therapist is someone worth going to see. If you are in need of physical therapy or have questions about what physical therapy consists of, contact Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness today and we will be happy to assist you with your first steps towards recovery. We have an extensive team of qualified physical therapists and specialists who care deeply about their clients and go above and beyond the call of duty to provide the highest quality treatment in the industry. If you are looking for a therapist who will carefully assess your individual needs and formulate a treatment plan that is specifically tailored to your needs, Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness is your preferred choice for the physical recovery process.   Wed, 25 Mar 2020 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/21000/Red-Flags-From-Potential-Denver-Physical-Therapy-Practices-You-Should-Take-Note-of http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/20954/Why-You-Should-Work-With-A-Trusted-Denver-Physical-Therapist-During-Your-Recovery-Process blog The act of locating the best Denver physical therapist can be a challenge, as there are seemingly endless numbers of clinics to sift through in order to find the one that fits your needs. Often times, you will be looking for a clinic after a serious accident and perhaps insurance will play a key role. Or perhaps you will have to pay out of pocket and you will be looking for a clinic that not only fills your specific injury needs but will also provide you with affordable services. Unfortunately, physical therapy can often be an expensive service to utilize, as clinics must meet their own financial needs during the course of business. If you're searching for your next Denver physical therapist, here are the things you should think about prior to making your decision. They Can Help You With Your Mobility Many injuries can cause a person to lose their mobility or have drastically reduced movement, as pain and other constrictions as a result of the injury can make it difficult to move in the same way as you had before. A trusted Denver physical therapist will create a treatment plan that will address these issues and provide you with a list of exercises and therapies to make it more likely that you'll be able to move easier. You shouldn't have to feel constricted by your movement when you are recovering from an injury, at least not for excessive periods of time. Of course, you will need to adjust your movements so you do not injure yourself any worse during your recovery process, but you also shouldn't feel completely paralyzed by this situation. It's important to understand that a Denver physical therapist can help you to improve your mobility and your movements as a whole, as this will be a major setback for you as you recover from your injury. You shouldn't have to stay off of your injury the entire time you are recovering from it as this can actually slow your recovery process. A physical therapist will help you to understand what type of movements and exercises you will be able to perform in a safe manner and will make the process much more bearable for you. They can help to monitor your injury's progress and continue to give you exercises that will help strengthen the affected area. Core Strengthening and Improving Your Stability During the course of your recovery, you will likely have balance and stability issues performing the same actions you did prior to your injury, making it a problem to address as soon as you can. Stability and balance issues can lead to a situation where you are likely to get injured again, if not in the same place then somewhere else, creating a situation that makes it difficult to recover as a whole. You shouldn't take any chances with this problem and being as proactive as possible can make the situation improve much faster than simply waiting for something to happen. A physical therapist in Denver can assist you with this process and provide you with core strengthening exercises and stability improvement to increase the chances that you will not be dealing with additional injuries. If you want to think of your body as a house, your core is your foundation, as it is where all of your extremities meet. A weak core is much more susceptible to acute injury and eventually dealing with chronic pain and other conditions that will make your recovery process especially challenging. You should always take into account any type of potential setback before you begin strength-training your core, but a physical therapist in Denver can help assist you with this process.  Strengthen Your Muscles and Joints Depending on the type of injury you are dealing with, one of the common things that will happen is your muscles and joints will be significantly affected, creating a situation where you are weak and more prone to injury. One of the most important parts of your range of motion happens to occur in your body's joints and muscles, areas that will likely be constricted and restrained as a result of a serious injury. Normal activities may be affected, something that you will certainly want to address as soon as possible so you aren't feeling completely disabled as a result of this situation. A Denver physical therapist will provide you with a series of activities and stretches to help improve your range of motion and to reduce the stress and strain that is likely being put onto your joints and muscles. It's important that your joints and muscles are strengthened in order to make the act of moving around a more manageable and safer act, and a physical therapist will work directly with you to ensure this happens in a safe and smooth manner. If you've had surgery as a result of your injury, a PT will also help you to rehab this area and provide tools and activities that will accelerate your recovery process. If you've had some type of invasive surgery, it is best to think about the ways in which you can improve your physical situation and one of the best methods for doing this is to seek the services of a trusted Denver physical therapist. If you are in need of physical therapy or have questions about what physical therapy consists of, contact Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness today and we will be happy to assist you with your first steps towards recovery. We have an extensive team of qualified physical therapists and specialists who care deeply about their clients and go above and beyond the call of duty to provide the highest quality treatment in the industry. If you are looking for a therapist who will carefully assess your individual needs and formulate a treatment plan that is specifically tailored to your needs, Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness is your preferred choice for the physical recovery process.   Wed, 18 Mar 2020 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/20954/Why-You-Should-Work-With-A-Trusted-Denver-Physical-Therapist-During-Your-Recovery-Process http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/20911/Looking-to-Hire-a-New-Denver-Physical-Therapist--Here-are-the-Types-of-Practitioners-You-Should-Avoid-at-All-Costs blog The act of locating the best Denver physical therapist can be a challenge, as there are seemingly endless numbers of clinics to sift through in order to find the one that fits your needs. Often times, you will be looking for a clinic after a serious accident and perhaps insurance will play a key role. Or perhaps you will have to pay out of pocket and you will be looking for a clinic that not only fills your specific injury needs but will also provide you with affordable services. Unfortunately, physical therapy can often be an expensive service to utilize, as clinics must meet their own financial needs during the course of business. If you're searching for your next Denver physical therapist, here are the types of practitioners you should avoid at all costs. Physical Therapists Who Run Their Practices Like a Machine In terms of running a successful business, you need to be focused on every detail possible when it comes to your company. Being hyperfocused about every aspect can create a well-oiled machine that is a profitable venture and provides a good experience for customers and clients. But there are times when a physical therapy business can become overly focused on the financial side of things, leaving quality client care to fall to the wayside and create a situation where you feel more like someone who is merely there to make the practitioner a ton of money. These patient mills will become apparent to anyone paying attention, as the physical therapist will be pushing a number of seemingly irrelevant or unnecessary treatments in the course of your time there. They may begin to refer you to their massage therapy, chiropractor, and other services that you are not necessarily interested in or expressed any desire to participate in, yet they may decide to continue to refer you to these places regardless of what you say to them. It's important to be aware that you do not need to do anything you are not comfortable with and you should always make it a priority to advocate for what you think is best.  Physical therapy offices that make it a priority to bill for as many services as possible are often not thinking about their client and are more concerned with their bottom line, which can make you feel like someone who is merely a means to an end. A physical therapist in Denver should never make you feel like a means to make money, even if they are running a business and need to be concerned with their finances. The truth is, your care should always be the top priority for anyone you are working with and you shouldn't have to sacrifice that in the name of additional services that aren't relevant to your situation. Practices that Don't Accept Your Insurance One of the most important things you should make a priority during your search for your next Denver physical therapist is to make sure they will accept your insurance. Often, physical therapists will only accept certain types of insurance and will make the act of working with an out-of-network provider a much more expensive process. Most people are not in a position to have the luxury of paying thousands of dollars to see someone out of their care network, making it especially important to work with someone who will accept your certain kind of insurance. Always make sure to check with an office prior to beginning treatment, as it can be stressful to have to start over again with someone else once you learn your insurance is not accepted. Physical Therapists Who Will Not Communicate Clearly With You When you're dealing with a practitioner in any field of medicine, you need to make sure you select someone who is able to communicate clearly and thoroughly throughout your treatment process, as it is important to receive proper guidance and clarity about where you are at in your recovery. Physical therapists in Denver who are not able to return your calls or make you a priority during your recovery will be difficult to fully engage with during treatment, as you will feel neglected and overlooked. You should never work with a physical therapist who will not make communication a priority, as this can be stressful and frustrating to have to deal with. Instead, you should work with a physical therapist who will adequately and sufficiently explain every step in the process and make you feel at ease about your situation. Dealing with incommunicative physical therapists (or anyone) is a difficult and unfortunate situation that should not be tolerated. You can usually sense of a physical therapist office will be difficult to deal with within your first few times communicating with them. If they have a hard to following up with you or providing essential information necessary to your case, you should probably avoid working with them. If you begin to work with a specific Denver physical therapist and they turn out to be poor communicators, stress to them what your needs are regarding your treatment. If they are unable to meet these needs, you should make the decision to find another practice that will be up to the task. If you are in need of physical therapy, or have questions about what physical therapy consists of, contact Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness today and we will be happy to assist you with your first steps towards recovery. We have an extensive team of qualified physical therapists and specialists who care deeply about their clients and go above and beyond the call of duty to provide the highest quality treatment in the industry. If you are looking for a therapist who will carefully assess your individual needs and formulate a treatment plan that is specifically tailored to your needs, Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness is your preferred choice for the physical recovery process.   Wed, 11 Mar 2020 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/20911/Looking-to-Hire-a-New-Denver-Physical-Therapist--Here-are-the-Types-of-Practitioners-You-Should-Avoid-at-All-Costs http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/20881/Looking-for-the-Best-Parker-Physical-Therapist--Here-Are-the-Types-of-Questions-You-Should-Ask-Prior-to-Starting-Treatment blog The act of locating the best Parker physical therapist can be a challenge, as there are seemingly endless numbers of clinics to sift through in order to find the one that fits your needs. Often times, you will be looking for a clinic after a serious accident and perhaps insurance will play a key role. Or perhaps you will have to pay out of pocket and you will be looking for a clinic that not only fills your specific injury needs but will also provide you with affordable services. Unfortunately, physical therapy can often be an expensive service to utilize, as clinics must meet their own financial needs during the course of business.  Do You Accept Insurance? Of course, with any type of medical treatment, one of the most important questions to ask a provider is if they accept insurance. Often times, smaller physical therapists will not accept insurance, as they prefer to deal with cash transactions only, as insurance companies can require an additional amount of work and resources in order for it to be feasible. If they do end up taking your type of insurance, it's important to get an understanding of how this arrangement will work and if any co-pays or other fees will be required. Many times, physical therapists in Parker will take insurance and not require a co-pay. This is usually the case if you are dealing with an auto insurance claim, as these types of coverages are more generous to the patient. However, if you are dealing with your own health insurance company, you can probably expect to pay for some of your treatment out of your own pocket, as most health insurance has a co-pay associated with physical therapy treatment.  How Will My Treatment Process Go? In order to gain a clear understanding of how your treatment will go with a trusted Parker physical therapist, you will want to gain a grasp of what your actual treatment will look like. It's not a simple, straightforward process for every single physical therapy provider, as some therapists have different methods and approaches to their treatment process. A great way to get a sense of what your treatment is like is to speak with a potential physical therapist about what you can expect and how you should prepare for your treatment.  This is a great way to get a sense of whether a potential physical therapy provider in Parker will be the right fit for you, as everyone has their own style of doing things. It will also allow you to gain a sense of what to expect from your treatment and whether or not they will be the best fit for your particular injury and health situation. When speaking to a potential physical therapy provider in Parker, it is important to explain to them as clearly and thoroughly as possible what you are dealing with and what your expectations are, so you can have a chance to listen to what they offer and whether or not it is something that aligns with your treatment goals. For instance, you may prefer to work with a physical therapist who is more aggressive and will target your condition as intensively as possible in order to get you back to the desired state you would prefer. It's important to work with someone who will be the best equipped to fulfill your specific requests, as some physical therapists will be less flexible and able to adapt and adjust their style to what you need. With anything, it is always best to be as clear and direct as possible so you can get a sense of their style before beginning treatment, as having to start over with a new physical therapist is likely something you'd rather avoid having to do. How Long Will I Need Treatment? Another important question to ask prior to beginning treatment with a Parker physical therapist is to get a sense of how long your treatment will last and what the process will look like. This will vary based on your particular health situation and what type of injury you are recovering from, as it is going to be different for every client. Again, it is best to explain your situation in-depth with whatever physical therapist you are speaking with as a way to help them understand what they are dealing with. Often times, a physical therapist may not be inclined to give you a specific timetable, as there are many variables that can come into play. However, it is definitely reasonable to receive some sort of timeframe in order to understand how long you can expect to be in treatment for. Not knowing how long something will take can be detrimental to your recovery process and it is best to have a clear grasp of what to expect. Of course, this can change as you enter treatment and it is possible that you may need less (or more) time depending on what type of progress you are making, but having a reasonably specific time window will be helpful for you. This is something you should definitely ask of any physical therapist and they should be able to provide you with this type of information. If you are in need of physical therapy, or have questions about what physical therapy consists of, contact Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness today and we will be happy to assist you with your first steps towards recovery. We have an extensive team of qualified physical therapists and specialists who care deeply about their clients and go above and beyond the call of duty to provide the highest quality treatment in the industry. If you are looking for a therapist who will carefully assess your individual needs and formulate a treatment plan that is specifically tailored to your needs, Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness is your preferred choice for the physical recovery process.   Thu, 05 Mar 2020 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/20881/Looking-for-the-Best-Parker-Physical-Therapist--Here-Are-the-Types-of-Questions-You-Should-Ask-Prior-to-Starting-Treatment http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/20850/Looking-For-Your-Next-Denver-Physical-Therapist--Here-Are-Some-of-the-Most-Important-Qualities-to-Look-for-in-a-Practitioner blog The act of locating the best Denver physical therapist can be a challenge, as there are seemingly endless numbers of clinics to sift through in order to find the one that fits your needs. Often times, you will be looking for a clinic after a serious accident and perhaps insurance will play a key role. Or perhaps you will have to pay out of pocket and you will be looking for a clinic that not only fills your specific injury needs but will also provide you with affordable services. Unfortunately, physical therapy can often be an expensive service to utilize, as clinics must meet their own financial needs during the course of business. Here are some of the things that are important to keep in mind when searching for your next Denver physical therapist. Someone You Get Along with on a Personal Level In terms of Denver physical therapists, it is obviously important to select someone with the knowledge and experience needed to accurately diagnose and treat whatever ailment you are dealing with. But once you find someone who is qualified and respected in their field, you also need to take the step of finding someone you will be able to jive with on a personal level. While this may seem like a superficial and trivial part of the puzzle, it is something you shouldn't underestimate, as they will be spending a large amount of time with you week after week for the next several months (to years).  If you select someone who is qualified but difficult to get along with, you will very likely be less engaged in your treatment and will be watching the clock on a regular basis, as you won't be committed to your time with that person. Having someone you get along with is a major component of any therapeutic process, and it is crucial to select someone who will help to motivate you through difficult exercises and stretches. The act of physical therapy can be painful and stressful enough, you shouldn't have to also feel like the person giving you the exercises is also a difficult person to work with.  There's a reason bedside manner is always talked about as an important component of any medical practice, and it is something you should always keep in mind when you are searching for a trusted Denver physical therapist, as you will get a lot more out of your treatment if you find yourself enjoying working with your practitioner. In addition to the process being more enjoyable, you will want to find someone who understands how to motivate you and push you to exert yourself without it feeling overbearing or like you are receiving orders from a military drill instructor. A physical therapist should be your advocate and your partner throughout the process, which is why you should find a Denver physical therapist who can accurately meet with your individual personality needs. Someone Who Can Adjust Their Practice to Your Specific Situation More and more, it is becoming clear that health is not a one-size-fits-all equation, as every individual will have different physical and mental limitations that need to be taken into account when developing a treatment plan. This is true with a physical therapist as much as any other form of medicine, as someone who is struggling with a leg injury may also have other conditions that need to be taken into account, whether it be age-related or due to physical limitations. It is vitally important to select a Denver physical therapist who can adjust their practice according to your specific situation. For instance, you may have a chronic condition that will require a Denver physical therapist to assess your specific needs and decide what is the best course of action in order to make a sound treatment plan. Your age, height, weight, and other medical conditions may determine what type of exercises and activities you should be engaged in, as there are some conditions that can make certain activities a health risk to participate in. You shouldn't have to guess your way to health and you certainly shouldn't work with a physical therapist who will be doing the same. Work With Someone Who Can Help Set Your Goals and Meet Them The best Denver physical therapist is someone who will work with you to help you meet your intended goals and targets. These will inevitably be dramatically different depending on what your goals are and where you are at in the recovery process. For instance, someone who is a high-performance athlete will have dramatically different targets for recovery with a leg injury than an average person who doesn't have to get back to a high level of exercise.  For the average person, a recovery may simply mean just getting to walk without pain or engage in regular exercises again without excessive discomfort. It is important to stress this to a potential physical therapist prior to beginning treatment and to be as specific as possible with your goals so you are able to give them an accurate picture of yourself. It's important to always make these things apparent to your physical therapist so they are able to help you reach your intended goals.  If you are in need of physical therapy, or have questions about what physical therapy consists of, contact Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness today and we will be happy to assist you with your first steps towards recovery. We have an extensive team of qualified physical therapists and specialists who care deeply about their clients and go above and beyond the call of duty to provide the highest quality treatment in the industry. If you are looking for a therapist who will carefully assess your individual needs and formulate a treatment plan that is specifically tailored to your needs, Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness is your preferred choice for the physical recovery process.   Thu, 27 Feb 2020 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/20850/Looking-For-Your-Next-Denver-Physical-Therapist--Here-Are-Some-of-the-Most-Important-Qualities-to-Look-for-in-a-Practitioner http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/20816/What-You-Should-Think-About-Prior-to-Working-With-a-Parker-Physical-Therapist blog The act of locating the best Parker physical therapist can be a challenge, as there are seemingly endless numbers of clinics to sift through in order to find the one that fits your needs. Often times, you will be looking for a clinic after a serious accident and perhaps insurance will play a key role. Or perhaps you will have to pay out of pocket and you will be looking for a clinic that not only fills your specific injury needs but will also provide you with affordable services. Unfortunately, physical therapy can often be an expensive service to utilize, as clinics must meet their own financial needs during the course of business. Here are some of the things you should think about prior to entering physical therapy. What Are Your Treatment Goals? Of course, entering physical therapy rehab with a trusted Parker physical therapist means you are aiming to get better and return to your former condition. This is an obvious part about rehab, as everyone who is entering physical therapy has the goal of improving some part of their physical situation. However, it is important to get a clear sense where you would like to see yourself in a specific time frame after entering treatment and what you would like to receive from treatment. Not every individual will have the same treatment goals with the same type of injury, as you may be at a different level of activity and physical fitness level as someone else with the same injury. For instance, a person who has recently injured their leg may not have the same treatment goals as a professional skier who has recently injured the same part of their body. For a professional athlete, their treatment goals may be dramatically different and require much more intensive rehab and exercises to help them to return to their former physical condition as a soon as possible, allowing them to compete on the professional stage. For a person who is not a pro athlete, simply being able to walk and engage in light physical activity within the same time period may be your goal instead of needing to hit the slopes and compete professionally. These factors can also change depending on your age level as well as any other physical conditions or limitations you may be dealing with. A person in their 70's will have a much different treatment plan and goals compared with someone who is in their 20's, and their treatment plan will require much different levels of intensity in order to achieve these goals. Whatever your situation may be, it is important to have a clear understanding of what you are hoping to achieve by entering physical therapy and hiring a trusted Parker physical therapist to help you along the way, as this will let them know what you need and what they should focus on in your recovery process. How Long Will The Process Take and What Are Realistic Expectations In life, one of the most important mindsets to maintain is to keep your expectations realistic in order to make sure you don't set yourself up for disappointment. Although we all slip up from time to time and set expectations that are far outside of our reach, it is important to set goals that are within the realm of possibility and can actually be attained. One of the key components to setting goals is to be specific and set goals that are attainable, and this is no different when it comes to your physical therapy treatment. You should have a sense of what you hope to achieve and talk with your Parker physical therapist about when you can expect to achieve your stated goals by.  Being left in the dark will leave you wondering if you will ever return to your former self and create a lot of anxiety and stress regarding your health situation. A trusted Parker physical therapist should always communicate with you regarding what to expect and where you need to be at during the course of your treatment. It is not just a matter of showing up to treatment and going through the motions, as this is a recipe for being disengaged and less participatory during the process. Having a clear understanding of what comes next will help you become more engaged in the act of your treatment and will give you a sense of clarity about where you are in the rehab process. Will The Parker Physical Therapist Listen to My Feedback? In the world of medicine, there are unfortunately many practitioners who would rather lecture their clients and tell them they know better than them in every situation, which is something that you as the patient should not have to tolerate. Instead, you will want to work with a physical therapist who will listen to your needs and actually be responsive with regards to your feedback. For instance, if you are experiencing an excessive level of pain as a result of a particular exercise, you will want to let your physical therapist know what's going on so they can adjust the practice as needed. A physical therapist who will not listen to their client regardless of the feedback is someone you should avoid at all costs.  If you are in need of physical therapy, or have questions about what physical therapy consists of, contact Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness today and we will be happy to assist you with your first steps towards recovery. We have an extensive team of qualified physical therapists and specialists who care deeply about their clients and go above and beyond the call of duty to provide the highest quality treatment in the industry. If you are looking for a therapist who will carefully assess your individual needs and formulate a treatment plan that is specifically tailored to your needs, Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness is your preferred choice for the physical recovery process.   Wed, 19 Feb 2020 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/20816/What-You-Should-Think-About-Prior-to-Working-With-a-Parker-Physical-Therapist http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/20783/Why-Utilizing-the-Services-of-a-Denver-Physical-Therapist-Can-Be-a-Game-Changer-For-Your-Health blog The act of locating the best Denver physical therapist can be a challenge, as there are seemingly endless numbers of clinics to sift through in order to find the one that fits your needs. Often times, you will be looking for a clinic after a serious accident and perhaps insurance will play a key role. Or perhaps you will have to pay out of pocket and you will be looking for a clinic that not only fills your specific injury needs but will also provide you will affordable services. Unfortunately, physical therapy can often be an expensive service to utilize, as clinics must meet their own financial needs during the course of business. Here are some of the things you should keep in mind when searching for the most ideal Denver physical therapist and why utilizing the services of a trusted practitioner is definitely worth your time. They Can Restore You to Your Previous Self If you've been injured in an accident or had a serious injury as the result of being involved in a sport can leave you feeling incapacitated for months on end, making you anxious and awaiting the next moment you are able to start moving again. Serious injuries are nothing to take lightly and it can significantly alter your life, as you are forced to sit out something that you love and are less inclined to make the progress you seek as a result. An injury can dramatically alter your life and can make the process of returning to your former self a tall task, something that is often extremely difficult to accomplish on your own without the expert guidance and experience of someone else.  For this reason, seeking out the services of a trusted Denver physical therapist is something that can seriously help you as you return to your former form and provide you with the added boost you need to regain your strength. A physical therapist will be able to provide you with the insight and exercises needed to get you back on the road to recovery, something that can offer you invaluable support during your time of need. Attempting to research and perform exercises on your own accord is something you may think about considering, but it is important to understand that you may end up missing vital details that are essential to your situation. Having someone who can help assist and guide you through the exercises is an extremely component of the process and should be sought out. Develop a Realistic, Personalized Plan to Get You Back On Your Feet One of the biggest benefits of utilizing the services of a trusted Denver physical therapist is the fact that they will develop a personalized treatment plan in order to properly and effectively treat whatever issue you are currently struggling with. In medicine, it is always important to understand that not every person will have the same needs when it comes to their treatment, even if they are dealing with the same type of injury. A person who is younger, for instance, will be struggling much less than a person who is considered to be elderly. Likewise, someone who is also dealing with another chronic condition will require careful consideration from their trusted Denver physical therapist instead of simply receiving the same type of treatment plan. It is important to select a practitioner who will carefully and diligently assess your situation in order to determine what type of plan needs to be put in place, as effective treatment plans are those that look at the whole person instead of just the condition they are dealing with. Unfortunately, not all physical therapists in Denver will use a specific and catered treatment plan that adequately addresses your needs, making it vitally important to select the services of someone who will. It is also important to communicate these needs to your physical therapist as soon as you see them so they are able to create a trustworthy and reliable treatment plan as soon as they can. Provide Ongoing Interventions for Patients Who May Not Be Struggling With a Serious Injury When people think about using the services of a trusted Denver physical therapist, they often think about individuals who have recently experienced some type of serious injury or trauma and are in need of a serious intervention and rehab plan. This is actually not always the case, as physical therapists can also provide useful services to people who are not overtly struggling with something, but can simply have their health improved as a result of seeing a therapist. Instead of receiving treatment for a serious condition, physical therapists can also provide exercises and treatment that can help a person to strengthen and improve upon their health, regardless of if it is a pressing need or not. Physical therapists can help all people from all walks of life improve their current levels of movement and mobility, making the act of seeing a PT a helpful and beneficial act for anyone. While you may think you are not in need of using the services of a trusted Denver physical therapist, it is important to understand that you can still benefit from regular treatment, as you can receive helpful interventions to improve your life. If you are in need of physical therapy, or have questions about what physical therapy consists of, contact Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness today and we will be happy to assist you with your first steps towards recovery. We have an extensive team of qualified physical therapists and specialists who care deeply about their clients and go above and beyond the call of duty to provide the highest quality treatment in the industry. If you are looking for a therapist who will carefully assess your individual needs and formulate a treatment plan that is specifically tailored to your needs, Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness is your preferred choice for the physical recovery process.   Wed, 12 Feb 2020 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/20783/Why-Utilizing-the-Services-of-a-Denver-Physical-Therapist-Can-Be-a-Game-Changer-For-Your-Health http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/20757/In-Need-of-a-Parker-Physical-Therapist--Here-Are-the-Most-Common-Injuries-Physical-Therapists-Treat blog The act of locating the best Denver physical therapist can be a challenge, as there are seemingly endless numbers of clinics to sift through in order to find the one that fits your needs. Often times, you will be looking for a clinic after a serious accident and perhaps insurance will play a key role. Or perhaps you will have to pay out of pocket and you will be looking for a clinic that not only fills your specific injury needs but will also provide you will affordable services. Unfortunately, physical therapy can often be an expensive service to utilize, as clinics must meet their own financial needs during the course of business. If you're seeking a new Parker physical therapist, here are some of the most common injuries these practitioners treat. Runner's Knee One of the most common injuries a Parker physical therapist will see in their practice is when an individual has suffered from a runner's knee. This is when someone who is a regular runner will begin to deal with aches and pains around their knee area as a result of regular use of their legs. Perhaps they ran too much in a short period of time, maybe their shoes and insoles weren't up to par, or it might have just been an issue of poor form when running. Whatever the case, runner's knee can be a pain for someone to overcome, as it can literally leave you on the sidelines for months at a time.  Runner's knee is the result of a misalignment of the knee cap, requiring repeated exercises to help straighten out the condition and return a runner back to their former selves. One major way a Parker physical therapist will help an individual struggling with this condition is to give them a series of exercises that help to strengthen the knee and begin to support the cartilage and muscle surrounding the knee cap. A physical therapist may also provide a person with quadriceps massages in order to stretch out muscle fibers as a way to alleviate contractions that are pulling the kneecaps up.  Pulled Muscle Another extremely common injury that a Parker physical therapist will see on a regular basis in their practice is that of a pulled muscle. This is when sudden and severe forces stretch the muscle fibers beyond its capacity. In more ideal circumstances, only a few of the muscle fibers will tear, leading to what is called a pulled muscle. However, if all of the muscle fibers have torn then it is referred to as a full-blown muscle tear, something which is much more challenging to recover from (though certainly within the realm of possibility). For this reason, it is vitally important to remember to regularly stretch before and after intense workouts to avoid this situation from playing out. Individuals who are inflexible and attempt to try exercises that leave them open to muscle pulls and tears should always work their way into such activities to prevent the possibility of developing a serious injury. If you end up becoming injured with a muscle pull or tear, you should definitely think about treating this condition with ice, allowing your muscles to relax and reduce swelling in the affected area. If you are struggling with an excessive amount of pain as a result of this injury, you should also consider taking anti-inflammatory medication to reduce the negative effects of such a condition. Repeated stretching exercises will allow you to re-lengthen your muscle fibers and allow you to return to action once your muscles have healed. Ankle Sprain Anyone who has played sports or simply lost their balance and dealt with a sprained ankle knows how debilitating and painful a sprained ankle can be. If you are especially active in a sport and you've experienced a sprained ankle, it can set you back from your activity for months at a time, leaving you to rehab for an extended period of time. Quick movements or a loss of balance can lead to you sprained your ankle, which is when your ligaments become partially or fully torn as the foot rolls to the outside instead of landing on your sole. Your ankle will swell up and turn discolored as a result of your injury while also preventing you from putting significant amounts of weight on it during your recovery period.  If you've recently experienced an ankle sprain, one of the things your physical therapist may recommend is plenty of rest in the beginning, combined with regular icing, as well as the right amount of stretching and eventually exercises that are appropriate. You shouldn't necessarily just sit around and not put any pressure on your ankle, as this can actually prolong your recovery and cause you to be off of it for a longer period of time.  Working the ankle muscles can allow you to strengthen the areas around the injury, providing you with needed relief from this type of injury. Instead of remaining like a bump on a log for months at a time, you should steadily return to move your ankle as you feel comfortable. As always, you should consult with a trusted physical therapist to help guide you in this process.  If you are in need of physical therapy or have questions about what physical therapy consists of, contact Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness today and we will be happy to assist you with your first steps towards recovery. We have an extensive team of qualified physical therapists and specialists who care deeply about their clients and go above and beyond the call of duty to provide the highest quality treatment in the industry. If you are looking for a therapist who will carefully assess your individual needs and formulate a treatment plan that is specifically tailored to your needs, Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness is your preferred choice for the physical recovery process.   Wed, 05 Feb 2020 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/20757/In-Need-of-a-Parker-Physical-Therapist--Here-Are-the-Most-Common-Injuries-Physical-Therapists-Treat http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/20715/The-Most-Important-Factors-to-Look-For-In-a-Denver-Physical-Therapist blog The act of locating the best Denver physical therapist can be a challenge, as there are seemingly endless numbers of clinics to sift through in order to find the one that fits your needs. Often times, you will be looking for a clinic after a serious accident and perhaps insurance will play a key role. Or perhaps you will have to pay out of pocket and you will be looking for a clinic that not only fills your specific injury needs but will also provide you will affordable services. Unfortunately, physical therapy can often be an expensive service to utilize, as clinics must meet their own financial needs during the course of business. Here are some of the things you should keep in mind when searching for the most ideal Denver physical therapist. A Physical Therapist With a History of Working With All Types of Injuries If you're looking for the best possible Denver physical therapist on the market, you will want to take into account that person's history of working with a wide variety of injuries, as rehab can vary greatly depending on how severe the injury is and where it is located. Obviously, someone who has only worked with leg injuries will not be the best suited to treat someone with an arm or neck injury. Of course, all competent and trusted Denver physical therapists should have the needed training and background to treat any injury no matter how much they've worked with it, but it is worth considering a person's experience before you begin treatment. The amount of time a particular physical therapist has spent working with your specific type of injury will allow you to determine whether they are the right fit to work with you. Someone who has a long history of treating your specific condition may have the necessary knowledge to provide the best possible care above someone who simply has the surface level understanding needed to treat it. Of course, someone who is experienced but doesn't have the best track record is not someone you should work with regardless of how much time they have under their belt. Someone Who Will Be Easy to Collaborate With An important factor to take into account when searching for your preferred Denver physical therapist is to hire someone who will be an easy partner to collaborate with. A physical therapist who is not able or willing to listen to their clients will make it seem like they don't have a level of respect for you, leading to the possibility that you will not be engaged in treatment and receive a lower level of care as a result. It's definitely important to select someone who is attentive and willing to collaborate with you on your needs when it comes to figuring out your treatment plan.  Unfortunately, there are plenty of physical therapists in the Denver area and beyond who are not that committed to taking their client's concerns seriously, leading to a reduction in services and poor bedside manner. A physical therapist that is not willing to collaborate with their patients is a clear indication of someone who doesn't respect their patient's needs, and you should definitely question whether you should work with them as a result of this. Always ask a physical therapist what their style is prior to beginning treatment in order to see whether it aligns with your needs and beliefs. They Should be Upfront About Your Recovery Time A trusted Denver physical therapist will keep you up to date as soon as they know your recovery timeline. As a patient recovering from a serious injury, it is important to have a solid understanding of what your recovery time will look like, as you certainly don't want to be left in the dark and having to guess when you will be recovered from whatever condition or injury you are struggling with. It is important to have a physical therapist who will assess your situation and provide you with a clear, reasonable, and realistic timeline that gives you a solid understanding of what to expect. A physical therapist who is not able or willing to provide you with a timeline will leave you frustrated and guessing throughout your recovery process. This is not only an irritation, it can lead to you deciding to take matters into your own hands and engage in activities which can seriously set back your recovery time by a large amount. You should never be involved in activities that your physical therapist does not approve of, and you certainly shouldn't feel left out of the mix when it comes to your recovery timeline. They Should Never Ask You To Do Things That Cause Excessive Pain It's important to understand that recovery will involve plenty of discomfort and pain, but it should never be excruciating to a point that you are screaming in agony. It's not a good idea or a great feeling to experience something that feels torturous and causes an immense level of suffering beyond what is reasonable. You should never hire a physical therapist who will not listen to you when you tell them something is too painful, as they should be concerned with you remaining committed to your treatment. If you are in need of physical therapy, or have questions about what physical therapy consists of, contact Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness today and we will be happy to assist you with your first steps towards recovery. We have an extensive team of qualified physical therapists and specialists who care deeply about their clients and go above and beyond the call of duty to provide the highest quality treatment in the industry. If you are looking for a therapist who will carefully assess your individual needs and formulate a treatment plan that is specifically tailored to your needs, Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness is your preferred choice for the physical recovery process.   Fri, 31 Jan 2020 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/20715/The-Most-Important-Factors-to-Look-For-In-a-Denver-Physical-Therapist http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/20680/Seeking-a-New-Denver-Physical-Therapist--Here-Are-Some-Important-Questions-to-Ask-Before-Beginning-Treatment blog The act of locating the best Denver physical therapist can be a challenge, as there are seemingly endless numbers of clinics to sift through in order to find the one that fits your needs. Often times, you will be looking for a clinic after a serious accident and perhaps insurance will play a key role. Or perhaps you will have to pay out of pocket and you will be looking for a clinic that not only fills your specific injury needs but will also provide you will affordable services. Unfortunately, physical therapy can often be an expensive service to utilize, as clinics must meet their own financial needs during the course of business. If you're looking for a new physical therapist in the Denver area, you should always have a clear understanding of what to look for and what should be avoided. How Much Will Treatment Cost Out of Pocket Often times, patients will begin seeing a physical therapist in Denver as a result of being involved in an accident where their healthcare will be determined by insurance companies. Other times, it may be the case where a primary care doctor will recommend treatment for an injury or chronic condition that requires extra care and attention. In either case, it is very important to have a clear understanding of what to expect in terms of the cost of your healthcare, as you don't want to make a mistake by seeing someone that will cost you and arm and a leg and not provide you with the affordable option you desire. Prior to starting treatment, it is important to get a clear understanding of what your insurance will cover and what you can expect to pay with each session. Many physical therapists opt out of accepting insurance, instead preferring to deal with cash only. If you are able to afford these types of situations, you will likely be less concerned with the cost of care, as these options are usually very expensive. However, most individuals are dealing with financial constraints which require them to be conscious of how much they are spending. By getting a clear assessment of what your treatment will cost, it will allow you to plan out your care and determine how much you are actually able to spend. Physical therapy can often require months of treatment, many times on a weekly basis, making it especially critical that you gain a clear grasp of what to expect with regards to your care and treatment. Some physical therapy offices will offer you the ability to make payments or set up a plan that is affordable and reasonable to follow. Whatever you end up deciding, it is crucial to get a clear picture of the road ahead so you are able to properly plan for what is to come. Ask Them What They Expect From You as the Patient It's important to get a grasp of what your new Denver physical therapist will expect from you as the patient, as you may not be aware of what physical therapy entails or what their specific practice asks of its clients. If you have never attended physical therapy in the past, it is important to get an understanding of what will be required throughout your sessions, including what the exercises will look like and what level of difficulty you will be dealing with. Not having a clear understanding of what is on your plate can make the act of dealing with physical therapy a much more daunting and less desirable situation, as you will not want to have to guess about what your treatment will look like. You will also want to know about specific policies your physical therapist's office may have regarding being on time, cancellations, and anything else that is relevant for you to know as a new patient. How Long Will My Treatment Last Another important question to ask your physical therapist prior to beginning your sessions is to get a clear understanding of how long treatment will last. Treatment needs will vary based on your specific condition and it is important to figure out what you can expect in terms of length of treatment prior to starting your sessions. If you are thinking that your treatment will only last approximately 2 months and it ends up lasting over a year, you will begin to become restless and likely perturbed with your practitioner regarding your treatment. Instead of guessing about how long your treatment will last, get a clear answer regarding how long your treatment will go on for.  A physical therapist who is incapable of communicating how long your treatment will last is someone you shouldn't deal with, as they will not be the best with regards to client care. Sometimes, physical therapists may not know exactly how long your treatment will last for or not have a set time available to you as a client. In these cases, you may want to ask them to give you an estimate or to ask when they might have a good idea about how long it will take once you begin treatment. Always be your own advocate when you are in treatment, as some physical therapists will not always have your interests in mind. If you are in need of physical therapy or have questions about what physical therapy consists of, contact Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness today and we will be happy to assist you with your first steps towards recovery. We have an extensive team of qualified physical therapists and specialists who care deeply about their clients and go above and beyond the call of duty to provide the highest quality treatment in the industry. If you are looking for a therapist who will carefully assess your individual needs and formulate a treatment plan that is specifically tailored to your needs, Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness is your preferred choice for the physical recovery process.   Wed, 22 Jan 2020 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/20680/Seeking-a-New-Denver-Physical-Therapist--Here-Are-Some-Important-Questions-to-Ask-Before-Beginning-Treatment http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/20660/The-Most-Common-Mistakes-You-Can-Make-When-Going-into-Physical-Therapy-From-a-Denver-Physical-Therapist blog The act of locating the best Denver physical therapist can be a challenge, as there are seemingly endless numbers of clinics to sift through in order to find the one that fits your needs. Often times, you will be looking for a clinic after a serious accident and perhaps insurance will play a key role. Or perhaps you will have to pay out of pocket and you will be looking for a clinic that not only fills your specific injury needs but will also provide you will affordable services. Unfortunately, physical therapy can often be an expensive service to utilize, as clinics must meet their own financial needs during the course of business. It's important to know what can go wrong in physical therapy before you begin so that you can avoid this unfortunate situation from playing out. You Don't Understand Why You're Doing Something If you're going to be engaged in regular physical therapy sessions with a trusted Denver physical therapists, it is extremely important to have a sense of what you are doing before you dive into extended treatment. A lack of understanding will not only leave you less interested and engaged in the treatment that your physical therapist is providing for you, but it will also leave you asking yourself why throughout your sessions with someone. Your physical therapist should always tell you clearly and explicitly why you are doing something and how this will help your defined treatment goals to become a reality. You shouldn't have to play a guessing game with your treatment, as it is important to have a clear understanding of what you are working towards and how your treatment fits in with this vision. Your Physical Therapist is Ignoring Your Needs One of the biggest red flags you can receive as a patient is to notice that your physical therapist is not paying attention to your explicit needs. If you are providing your physical therapist with a clear idea of what you would like to accomplish and what you expect from therapy and they are not giving this any attention, it is a clear indication that they are not the right fit for you as a practitioner. A disengaged physical therapist is not something you should have to put up with and you should seriously consider having someone else as your physical therapist as a result. If your physical therapist is ignoring your needs and what you are asking of them, it is a clear sign of disrespect and indication you should probably seek out the services of someone who will be more attentive and respectful to your needs. They Are Not Able to Look at the Whole Picture A big warning sign you should be on the lookout for is a physical therapist that doesn't address the entire needs of your body, mind, and spirit. If you are struggling with knee pain, it may be the result of a multitude of factors, many of which have nothing to do with the knee itself. A physical therapist who is incapable of looking at the whole picture and is singularly focused on the individual issues a patient is dealing with will be much less equipped to offer expert advice that is useable and relevant. You should seek out a therapist who will provide you with a holistic, whole-patient approach instead of someone who will not think about all of the factors which may be leading to your specific problem. Always work with Denver physical therapists who are interested in your full issues, not just one or two.  They Are Only Having You Continue Treatment Because They Can Bill You For It One of the biggest red flags you will run across as a patient with physical therapists is to deal with a practitioner who is trying to bill your insurance as much as possible, overlooking your specific needs as a client in the process. This is why it is especially important to set clear and specific treatment goals with your therapist so you can have a solid understanding of what type of progress you are making and what you still need to do in order to end treatment. If your treatment plan does not include specific or measurable goals that allow you to understand when your treatment is complete, you should think about speaking further with your physical therapist about this issue. Unfortunately, there are many physical therapy practices that are trying to bill as much as possible from their patients and will do whatever necessary to keep the money train rolling. This is especially true if you have been injured in an auto accident, as physical therapists will know that you will be less concerned about money if your insurance is covering all of your out-of-pocket costs. This will allow them to give you recommendations for services and treatments that you don't necessarily need but will allow them to run up the things they are able to bill for. While physical therapists are in the business of helping people, many practices can be overcome by the need to make as much money as possible, something which can put patients as a secondary thought and can provide less-than-ideal treatment as a result of this unfortunate reality. If you are in need of physical therapy or have questions about what physical therapy consists of, contact Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness today and we will be happy to assist you with your first steps towards recovery. We have an extensive team of qualified physical therapists and specialists who care deeply about their clients and go above and beyond the call of duty to provide the highest quality treatment in the industry. If you are looking for a therapist who will carefully assess your individual needs and formulate a treatment plan that is specifically tailored to your needs, Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness is your preferred choice for the physical recovery process.   Wed, 15 Jan 2020 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/20660/The-Most-Common-Mistakes-You-Can-Make-When-Going-into-Physical-Therapy-From-a-Denver-Physical-Therapist http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/20632/How-to-Set-Better-Goals-From-Your-Parker-Physical-Therapist blog The act of locating the best Parker physical therapist can be a challenge, as there are seemingly endless numbers of clinics to sift through in order to find the one that fits your needs. Often times, you will be looking for a clinic after a serious accident and perhaps insurance will play a key role. Or perhaps you will have to pay out of pocket and you will be looking for a clinic that not only fills your specific injury needs but will also provide you will affordable services. Unfortunately, physical therapy can often be an expensive service to utilize, as clinics must meet their own financial needs during the course of business. It is also important to set relevant goals in order to make your experience with a Parker physical therapist a useful one. Set SMART Goals in Treatment One of the best ways to make sure you are setting goals that will be helpful and useful in the course of your Parker physical therapy treatment is to set SMART goals. These are goals that are specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time-bound and will be useful in helping you achieve your goals much easier. It is important to follow this guide so your goals will be much easier to attain. You want your goal to be specific because you want to have a clear idea of what it is you are going to accomplish. Your goal should also be measurable so you can easily track your progress throughout treatment. A vague goal is much less likely to be achieved without any sort of way to track it. Next, you want to set goals that are actually attainable, as this will make you much more engaged in the process instead of feeling like you will never reach your goal.  You also want your goal to be relevant to you and your physical health, as you should have something to connect with throughout your treatment. Finally, you should set a goal that has a specific time-limit, as this will allow you to shoot for a date when you will reach your goal. If your goal does not have a specific end date, you will be much less likely to complete your goal because you won't have a cutoff time to work towards. If you are in need of physical therapy or have questions about what physical therapy consists of, contact Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness today and we will be happy to assist you with your first steps towards recovery. We have an extensive team of qualified physical therapists and specialists who care deeply about their clients and go above and beyond the call of duty to provide the highest quality treatment in the industry. If you are looking for a therapist who will carefully assess your individual needs and formulate a treatment plan that is specifically tailored to your needs, Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness is your preferred choice for the physical recovery process.   Fri, 10 Jan 2020 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/20632/How-to-Set-Better-Goals-From-Your-Parker-Physical-Therapist http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/20602/Things-to-Seek-Out-and-Things-to-Avoid-When-Searching-for-Your-Parker-Physical-Therapist blog The act of locating the best Parker physical therapist can be a challenge, as there are seemingly endless numbers of clinics to sift through in order to find the one that fits your needs. Often times, you will be looking for a clinic after a serious accident and perhaps insurance will play a key role. Or perhaps you will have to pay out of pocket and you will be looking for a clinic who not only fills your specific injury needs but will also provide you will affordable services. Unfortunately, physical therapy can often be an expensive service to utilize, as clinics must meet their own financial needs during the course of business. Here are some of the things you should keep in mind when searching for the most ideal Parker physical therapist. They are Knowledgeable and Can Easily Communicate Why They are Recommending Something In terms of finding the best possible Parker physical therapist to meet your specific needs, one of the important factors to look for is to hire someone who will be able to explain to you why they are recommending something. If you have no idea of why your physical therapist is recommending a specific exercise or stretch, you will likely be less engaged throughout this process and make it more likely that you will not receive the maximum benefit from the activity. You will want to have a physical therapist who will be an expert in both understanding what you need as well as communicating to you why you need this specific exercise.  Remember, there are aspects of physical therapy that will be foreign to most clients, as they will inevitably not have the same level of understanding as someone who has studied and practiced the craft for years. If you are attending physical therapy and your practitioner is not able to give you a clear reason for why you need a specific exercise, you will begin to question whether they are the right fit for you. It is important to hire someone who will be able to clearly explain the reasons and benefits for doing a specific task, both to demonstrate their expertise in the field as well as to allow you to gain a greater understanding of the recovery process. They Don't Seem to Be Mailing It In When They Visit With You It has been said for many years how important a good bedside manner is for successful doctors, and this is certainly the case when it comes to physical therapists. Not all physical therapists will have the type of bedside manner that is needed to make you feel like they are engaged in treatment, which is a serious negative quality to have to work with as a patient. If your therapist seems disinterested or disengaged in the process, it is very likely that you will also be less engaged as a client.  You will want to have a physical therapist in Denver who is committed to making your experience worth your time and shows their commitment throughout their sessions with you. It's not just a matter of having a therapist who is going through the motions and doesn't engage with you, as this is not worth your time and will lead to a less than satisfactory experience for you. Instead, you should seek out a physical therapist who will show you clearly and explicitly how much they value your time and will do whatever is needed to make you feel like you are getting your money's worth. Unfortunately, there are plenty of burnt out, disengaged therapists out there so be careful when selecting someone to take care of your needs as a patient.  They Take Their Time to Develop a Specific Treatment Plan That Fits Your Needs When it comes to physical therapy, not all treatment is the same. This is obvious if you have a shoulder injury compared to someone else's knee injury, but the same can also be true if you have the same type of injury as someone else. Often, you will require a specialized treatment plan that takes into account all relevant factors prior to deciding what needs to be done in order to treat you accurately and create a plan that will work for you. The best physical therapists in Denver will take all of the things you are experiencing in your life and formulate a plan that is relevant to your needs. For example, if you are a professional athlete, you will need a much different treatment plan than someone who is elderly and simply needs to get back on their feet. Clearly, the same injury can require different types of interventions depending on the person's individual needs, as it is wise not to have to do more than is needed when it comes to your recovery. A good physical therapist in Denver will also provide you with the type of exercises and activities that you are more likely to do, as this will increase the chances of you following through and completing your treatment plan guidelines. Be sure to consult with your Denver physical therapist when it comes to every aspect of your treatment plan so you can ensure you receive the type of treatment you deserve. If you are in need of physical therapy, or have questions about what physical therapy consists of, contact Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness today and we will be happy to assist you with your first steps towards recovery. We have an extensive team of qualified physical therapists and specialists who care deeply about their clients and go above and beyond the call of duty to provide the highest quality treatment in the industry. If you are looking for a therapist who will carefully assess your individual needs and formulate a treatment plan that is specifically tailored to your needs, Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness is your preferred choice for the physical recovery process.   Thu, 02 Jan 2020 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/20602/Things-to-Seek-Out-and-Things-to-Avoid-When-Searching-for-Your-Parker-Physical-Therapist http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/20540/The-Most-Immediate-Benefits-of-Engaging-in-Physical-Therapy-From-Your-Denver-Physical-Therapist blog If you're wondering about the benefits of physical therapy, there are clearly numerous reasons why you should consider attending physical therapy on a regular basis. Even if you don't have a serious injury or anything that is particularly pressing, physical therapy can provide immense benefits for your overall health and can be a life-saver for those who are in dire need of some type of rehabilitation. Many people may believe that physical therapy does not provide any type of immediate relief for those who are attending it, but this is definitely not the case, as there are a plethora of benefits for those who begin attending therapy. Here are some of the most immediate positive outcomes for individuals who attend physical therapy from your Denver physical therapist. Increases and Improves Your Mobility Individuals who are struggling with mobility issues will benefit greatly from attending regular physical therapy with a local Denver physical therapist. People who are having a hard time performing regular movements will receive instant benefit from working with a physical therapist, as they will see their mobility increase and their restrictions become reduced. Feeling limited in one's body can be one of the most disempowering feelings to experience, as it is difficult to deal with one's own limitations, especially as it pertains to movement. Seeing a physical therapist on a regular basis will allow one to gain their personal freedom and autonomy back, as the body is a major factor in feeling whole in one's life. Regular sessions with a Denver physical therapist will allow you to experience an increased level of flexibility, as rigidity may be a major reason why you are feeling immobile and unable to engage in regular movements that are essential to your daily life. Joint and tissue stabilization can be something a physical therapist will help you with, as this can be a primary component of improving your mobility. A physical therapist may also help you to relieve pain and discomfort which is contributing to a reduction in movement.  Reduce the Chances of Needing Surgery Perhaps one of the biggest immediate benefits of attending regular sessions with a Denver physical therapist is the fact that you will no longer need to have surgery, assuming the sessions are enough to alleviate your pain and get your body back to the condition it needs to be. Surgery is undoubtedly invasive and not an ideal outcome or intervention to undergo, as there are plenty of complications that can occur during this process. The act of undergoing surgery opens you up to a variety of side effects, such as receiving a serious infection or having a surgery go wrong and disabling you further. Physical therapy should be something you explore extensively whenever possible to avoid this from being needed. Receiving regular physical therapy can also help you to recover from surgery if you happen to have undergone a procedure recently. It can also help strengthen the specific part of your body that will be having the surgery performed on it, making your recovery time much less as a result. Being proactive when it comes to these types of procedures is a major way to stay ahead of the game and make sure your recovery is not unnecessarily long as a result. Always consult with your entire treatment team before making a decision, as surgery may be more urgent and not allow for other interventions. But if the opportunity for an alternative exists, consider giving physical therapy a chance. Improve Your Balance and Reduce Fall Potential As we age, our balance can begin to suffer, opening us up to the possibility of falling and becoming seriously injured or disabled. This can create setbacks which are difficult to recover from, certainly not a situation you will want to have to reckon with if you are already dealing with the unfortunate facts of aging. A fall is one of the most common ways a person will become injured with old age, but this situation can also impact individuals who are younger and have been dealing with an injury or condition which limits their balance and makes a fall more likely. This is where physical therapy sessions with a trusted practitioner can make your situation much more improved and allow you the peace of mind you so desperately seek. Regular sessions with a Denver physical therapist will provide you with improved balance, as a trusted practitioner will be able to assess your needs and create a treatment plan which helps to improve your overall balance. Physical therapy will offer exercises that will strengthen the parts of your body that may need additional strength, reducing the chances of you experiencing a fall which can certainly be devastating. Before you reach a point where your balance has been strengthened and fully corrected, a PT may also offer you an assistive device such as a cane or walker to reduce the chances of you falling. While this is not something many people will want to consider, it is certainly a better option than having to deal with the ramifications of fallings. Avoid this scenario and be proactive by contacting your local Denver physical therapist today and begin the path to recovery. If you are looking to improve your physical health situation is and are in need of physical therapy due to an accident or other physical ailments, contact Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness today and we will be happy to assist you with your first steps towards recovery. We have an extensive team of qualified physical therapists and specialists who care deeply about their clients and go above and beyond the call of duty to provide the highest quality treatment in the industry. If you are looking for a therapist who will carefully assess your individual needs and formulate a treatment plan that is specifically tailored to your needs, Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness is your preferred choice for the physical recovery professional.   Wed, 11 Dec 2019 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/20540/The-Most-Immediate-Benefits-of-Engaging-in-Physical-Therapy-From-Your-Denver-Physical-Therapist http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/20529/The-Most-Immediate-Benefits-of-Engaging-in-Physical-Therapy-From-Your-Denver-Physical-Therapist blog If you're wondering about the benefits of physical therapy, there are clearly numerous reasons why you should consider attending physical therapy on a regular basis. Even if you don't have a serious injury or anything that is particularly pressing, physical therapy can provide immense benefits for your overall health and can be a life-saver for those who are in dire need of some type of rehabilitation. Many people may believe that physical therapy does not provide any type of immediate relief for those who are attending it, but this is definitely not the case, as there are a plethora of benefits for those who begin attending therapy. Here are some of the most immediate positive outcomes for individuals who attend physical therapy from your Denver physical therapist. Increases and Improves Your Mobility Individuals who are struggling with mobility issues will benefit greatly from attending regular physical therapy with a local Denver physical therapist. People who are having a hard time performing regular movements will receive instant benefit from working with a physical therapist, as they will see their mobility increase and their restrictions become reduced. Feeling limited in one's body can be one of the most disempowering feelings to experience, as it is difficult to deal with one's own limitations, especially as it pertains to movement. Seeing a physical therapist on a regular basis will allow one to gain their personal freedom and autonomy back, as the body is a major factor in feeling whole in one's life. Regular sessions with a Denver physical therapist will allow you to experience an increased level of flexibility, as rigidity may be a major reason why you are feeling immobile and unable to engage in regular movements that are essential to your daily life. Joint and tissue stabilization can be something a physical therapist will help you with, as this can be a primary component of improving your mobility. A physical therapist may also help you to relieve pain and discomfort which is contributing to a reduction in movement.  Reduce the Chances of Needing Surgery Perhaps one of the biggest immediate benefits of attending regular sessions with a Denver physical therapist is the fact that you will no longer need to have surgery, assuming the sessions are enough to alleviate your pain and get your body back to the condition it needs to be. Surgery is undoubtedly invasive and not an ideal outcome or intervention to undergo, as there are plenty of complications that can occur during this process. The act of undergoing surgery opens you up to a variety of side effects, such as receiving a serious infection or having a surgery go wrong and disabling you further. Physical therapy should be something you explore extensively whenever possible to avoid this from being needed. Receiving regular physical therapy can also help you to recover from surgery if you happen to have undergone a procedure recently. It can also help strengthen the specific part of your body that will be having the surgery performed on it, making your recovery time much less as a result. Being proactive when it comes to these types of procedures is a major way to stay ahead of the game and make sure your recovery is not unnecessarily long as a result. Always consult with your entire treatment team before making a decision, as surgery may be more urgent and not allow for other interventions. But if the opportunity for an alternative exists, consider giving physical therapy a chance. Improve Your Balance and Reduce Fall Potential As we age, our balance can begin to suffer, opening us up to the possibility of falling and becoming seriously injured or disabled. This can create setbacks which are difficult to recover from, certainly not a situation you will want to have to reckon with if you are already dealing with the unfortunate facts of aging. A fall is one of the most common ways a person will become injured with old age, but this situation can also impact individuals who are younger and have been dealing with an injury or condition which limits their balance and makes a fall more likely. This is where physical therapy sessions with a trusted practitioner can make your situation much more improved and allow you the peace of mind you so desperately seek. Regular sessions with a Denver physical therapist will provide you with improved balance, as a trusted practitioner will be able to assess your needs and create a treatment plan which helps to improve your overall balance. Physical therapy will offer exercises that will strengthen the parts of your body that may need additional strength, reducing the chances of you experiencing a fall which can certainly be devastating. Before you reach a point where your balance has been strengthened and fully corrected, a PT may also offer you an assistive device such as a cane or walker to reduce the chances of you falling. While this is not something many people will want to consider, it is certainly a better option than having to deal with the ramifications of fallings. Avoid this scenario and be proactive by contacting your local Denver physical therapist today and begin the path to recovery. If you are looking to improve your physical health situation is and are in need of physical therapy due to an accident or other physical ailments, contact Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness today and we will be happy to assist you with your first steps towards recovery. We have an extensive team of qualified physical therapists and specialists who care deeply about their clients and go above and beyond the call of duty to provide the highest quality treatment in the industry. If you are looking for a therapist who will carefully assess your individual needs and formulate a treatment plan that is specifically tailored to your needs, Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness is your preferred choice for the physical recovery professional.   Mon, 09 Dec 2019 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/20529/The-Most-Immediate-Benefits-of-Engaging-in-Physical-Therapy-From-Your-Denver-Physical-Therapist http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/20474/How-to-Eat-Better-and-Feel-Better-During-the-Holiday-Season-From-Your-Parker-Physical-Therapist- blog The holidays bring with them plenty of opportunities for indulging in the finer things in life. Whether it be sweets, rich dishes made by your family, or alcohol, the holidays are often as much about endless amounts of consumption as they are seeing loved ones. While this is not something you should avoid altogether, unless you have other health conditions that can complicate the matter, it is important to stay focused on your overall health goals, as the holiday season can certainly set you back significantly. It's important to balance your binges with an approach that addresses your health needs and puts you on a path to overall wellness. Here are some tips for feeling better and eating better during the holiday season from your Parker physical therapist. Don't Overdo the Sweets One of the most common sights during the holiday season is to see piles upon piles of sugary deserts staring you in the face, beckoning you to jump headfirst into a serious sugar binge that will leave you crashing later in the evening. While a certain amount of sugary indulgence is something you can afford, you should be careful to mind how much you intake, as sugar consumption can put a toll on your health in a number of ways. It's also an incredibly easy thing to consume, as sugar addiction is something which is definitely a real thing to watch out for and is now a recognized diagnosis in the psychiatric community. If you are attending a series of holiday parties, ones which will inevitably feature an assortment of sugary goodies, limit the amount you intake throughout the night. Sure, it can seem like an almost impossible task, especially with the number of deserts which will surely be present, but you should consider setting strict guidelines when it comes to what you end up consuming. Try to stay away from the table where the deserts are located, if possible, and make an effort to occupy your mind with other activities, such as engaging in endless conversations with friends and family. Eating as a result of boredom can lead to endless amounts of consumption, something you should try to make the effort to steer clear of. Moderate Your Drinking Another staple of the holiday season is to engage in a serious amount of drinking, as this is a common way individuals will unwind and celebrate with their friends and family. While it's not bad to have a few drinks at a holiday party, it can be easy to slug back one too many, as other attendees will likely be doing the same. Sure, getting intoxicated once in a great while is nothing to become concerned about, but the holidays can end up turning into a small-scale binge, as you stroll from one party to the next drinking copious amounts of booze. This will not only impact your health from an alcohol standpoint, it will also add additional calorie consumption amounts to your already high totals. If you decide to engage in drinking during the holidays, make a conscious effort to limit your drinking. Whether this means limiting the number of drinks you have at each occasion or limiting your drinking to specific parties, consider ways that will help you moderate your drinking. If you end up drinking more than you should, it is definitely advisable to call for a ride instead of putting yourself and others at risk due to your level of intoxication. There's nothing that will spoil the holidays more than getting a DUI, so make it a priority to call a cab or rideshare if you have one too many. Take Care of Your Mental Health For many, the holidays can be an extremely stressful time for a variety of reasons. Whether it's the financial stress many endure, feeling like they have to keep up with their neighbors when it comes to gifts or decorations, the endless amounts of travel that can accompany the holidays, or simply having to see friends and family, the holidays can be a time that are anything but jolly for a large percentage of the population. By no means are the holidays always a time of joy and relaxation, as the act of traveling or hosting large amounts of people can be a continuous source of stress and frustration, one that can put undue burdens on those having to juggle a thousand different priorities all at once. If you find yourself feeling unnecessarily stressed as a result of the holiday season, you should seriously consider taking some time for yourself and making your mental health a priority. This can mean saying no to heading out to another party or limiting the amount of time you spend at various gatherings. If you are feeling overwhelmed and anxious about all of the things you need to get done before the holidays arrive, make a plan and chip away at your list on a daily basis so you can avoid feeling like you are in a neverending crisis. The holidays may bring a large amount of happiness and joy, but feeling stressed is nothing to take lightly and you should always attempt to handle it productively whenever possible. If you are looking to improve your physical health situation is and are in need of physical therapy due to an accident or other physical ailments, contact Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness today and we will be happy to assist you with your first steps towards recovery. We have an extensive team of qualified physical therapists and specialists who care deeply about their clients and go above and beyond the call of duty to provide the highest quality treatment in the industry. If you are looking for a therapist who will carefully assess your individual needs and formulate a treatment plan that is specifically tailored to your needs, Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness is your preferred choice for the physical recovery professional.   Tue, 03 Dec 2019 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/20474/How-to-Eat-Better-and-Feel-Better-During-the-Holiday-Season-From-Your-Parker-Physical-Therapist- http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/20473/With-the-Holidays-Around-the-Corner--Here-Are-Some-Ways-to-Stay-Healthy-From-Your-Denver-Physical-Therapist blog The holidays are a time which can bring both stress and joy, as the act of gathering with family, friends, and loved ones can either be a source of happiness or, often, one of great turmoil. It's a time where we often break our diets and regular routines in order to travel to gather with friends and family, which can create an amount of havoc for our physical and mental health situation. While consuming large amounts of food and alcohol can be a fun experience, the aftermath can create an uphill battle for us to dig out of. It's important to keep our health in check during the holidays so we don't have to make unrealistic New Years' resolutions, ones which we will inevitably have a hard time keeping. With that in mind, here are some tips to stay healthy during the holidays from your Denver physical therapist.  Make Time for Exercise The act of traveling for the holidays, going from one holiday party to another, can often leave us feeling stretched for time in terms of keeping our regular workout routine in place. It can make it seem as though we have neither the time nor the energy to maintain our healthy habits, which can take a large amount of time to establish in the first place. Having to get on the road and make time for these types of gatherings can present a serious challenge for us, but are not necessarily a guarantee that we will slip and break our habits. Contrary to popular belief, the holidays don't have to be a time where we lose all inhibition and find ourselves filled to the brim at every turn. During the holidays, it is vitally important to make time for regular workouts whenever we have the chance to. Undoubtedly, you will have some small stretch of time where you can engage in a small amount of physical activity in order to counteract the amount of binge-eating and drinking you will likely be engaging in. Whether you wake up a little earlier in the morning or use a small stretch of time during the evening, you can still maintain a workout routine during a holiday period of time.  While you may not be able to engage in your standard workout regimen, especially if you don't have access to a gym, you can still modify your workout in order to ensure you don't fall behind. Instead of doing free weights or machines in order to get in your needed strength training, consider pushups and simple squats. Instead of playing a game of basketball or working out on your favorite cardio machine at the gym, think about going for a jog or doing another form of activity which will raise your heart rate. Anything is better than doing nothing, and it doesn't have to be perfect, it just has to be enough to put yourself in better position once the holiday season is over.  Remember Your Gear! If you happen to be traveling for the holidays, one of the biggest reasons people don't engage in a regular workout routine is because they've left their workout gear at home. It's an easy cop-out for people who are looking to take a long break from exercise during this timeframe, but it's something which you should seriously think about prior to packing your bags for the holiday. Remember to bring your gear, such as your workout clothes and shoes, as this will make it much more likely that you will actually follow through on your regular routine. The act of having to purchase or borrow clothes while you are on vacation will almost certainly make it highly unlikely that you will actually follow through and continue to exercise during this time frame. You should also keep in mind where you may be engaging in your workout activity, as it may be cold outside, requiring you to bring long pants and different types of clothing. Comfort can be a great way to overcome the obstacle of exercising during this timeframe.  Find Someone to Help Keep You Accountable Look, if you're on vacation and around family and friends, there is probably at least one other individual who is trying to keep up their exercise routine. We often feel like we're the only ones who are trying to break out of the usual holiday routine and keep our exercise lives in order, but the truth is quite the contrary. Many people are beginning to stray from the usual exercise in gluttony and are moving towards a more healthy, conscious way to do the holiday season.  Discuss your situation with others who may be around during this time period and schedule a time to work out together, whether it be going to the gym or simply going for a short run. Having someone on hand to help keep you accountable can be a great strategy to employ any time, but especially during the holiday season when you are much more vulnerable to staying inside and avoiding any type of physical activity. Instead of falling prey to this type of behavior, set yourself up for success with an accountability buddy.  If you are looking to improve your physical health situation is and are in need of physical therapy due to an accident or other physical ailments, contact Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness today and we will be happy to assist you with your first steps towards recovery. We have an extensive team of qualified physical therapists and specialists who care deeply about their clients and go above and beyond the call of duty to provide the highest quality treatment in the industry. If you are looking for a therapist who will carefully assess your individual needs and formulate a treatment plan that is specifically tailored to your needs, Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness is your preferred choice for the physical recovery professional.   Tue, 03 Dec 2019 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/20473/With-the-Holidays-Around-the-Corner--Here-Are-Some-Ways-to-Stay-Healthy-From-Your-Denver-Physical-Therapist http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/20421/The-Unexpected--Lesser-Known-Benefits-of-Regular-Exercise-From-Your-Denver-Physical-Therapist blog Everyone knows how beneficial physical exercise is to one's health. Throughout all varieties of sources, whether from doctors, the media, or anyone you meet on the street, the value of exercise has been shouted from all angles at this point. Clearly, remaining stagnant and refraining from physical activity is not the road to physical wellness, making it especially important for individuals concerned with bettering their health situation to workout regularly. But there are lesser-known benefits which accompany working out that you should be aware of, as it may finally convince you of the value of getting off of your couch. Here are some of the lesser-known benefits of regular exercise from your Denver physical therapist.  It Can Help to Prevent Bone Disease In terms of chronic conditions the act of exercise can help to defend, many people are well aware of how it can help reduce the chances of developing heart disease. But did you know that regular exercise can play a major role in preventing bone disease? Research has shown that running or engaging in some form of strenuous physical activity for at least three hours each week can play a huge part in counteracting bone disease.  Individuals who spend lots of time on the couch or sitting in general are at greater risk for developing some form of bone disease, as it can lead to low mineral content in the bones. In terms of activities which have been shown to have the greatest impact against bone disease, physical activities which are of higher intensity can be the most effective when it comes to the fight against bone disease. Lowers the Possibility of Physical Confrontations Although many people may not deal with feeling aggressive towards individuals, people who suffer with chronic anger issues are at greater risk of getting into altercations which can result in a physical fight. This unfortunate reality can lead to a number of detrimental consequences, including dealing with serious legal ramifications as a result of an incident. Thankfully, regular exercise has been shown to reduce the chances of individuals getting into fights, as regular exercise has been shown to lower the incidents of violent behavior in those who are prone to committing such acts. Beneficial in Helping Individuals Abstain From Smoking One of the hardest habits to quit is smoking, as this detrimental behavior can have a wide-range of negative health consequences for addicted individuals. The act of giving up smoking can present plenty of challenges for individuals tasked with getting over this act, as physical and psychological cravings can present a serious challenge. One of the best ways to combat the effects of nicotine withdrawal is to engage in regular physical activity, as this can help to redirect the mind from constantly craving a cigarette. Restless energy can be a major factor which contributes to the urge to smoke, which regular workouts can help to release. Improve Memory If you're looking to combat the cognitive decline that can often accompany aging, perhaps the best strategy to employ is to workout on a daily basis. Studies have shown that regular exercise is a major way to slow the progression of memory loss, specifically the kind which results from having Alzheimer's. Exercise helps to promote and produce the stress hormone CRF, which can help to protect the brain. Another aspect of exercise as it pertains to memory is the fact that it is a great way to help reduce stress, clearing up the mind to think faster and keep mental faculties keen and functioning at their full potential. Aids in Digestion Individuals who work out usually love a good meal afterwards, as the act of exercise can help a person feel like they've earned their meal. But it might not be widely-known that exercise can also help the act of digestion itself, as it can aid in the digestive process. This is why the act of a short 15-20 minute walk after eating a meal can help a person feel better, especially if they may have overindulged a bit during dinner. A small amount of exercise can help to improve blood sugar levels throughout the day and can help to move glucose from the bloodstream to the muscles.  Improve Mental Health  One of the biggest ways that physical activity can positively impact one's health is through their mental health situation. Regular exercise has been shown to have profound effects on a person's mental well-being, as it can lead to an elevated mood and positive feelings as a result of a release of dopamine. Additionally, physical activity has been shown to significantly reduce both depression and anxiety, as it can help individuals suffering from these conditions get out of their head and into their bodies, providing a sense of relief from a chronic negative mindset. It's widely known that the body can have a huge impact on the mind, as vice versa, showcasing how vital it is to get regular physical activity. It has been said that motion leads to emotion, which is why it is especially critical for individuals who are struggling with depression to get moving, as they are often immobile and feel unmotivated to deal with their life circumstances as a result. If you are looking to improve your physical health situation is and are in need of physical therapy in Denver due to an accident or other physical ailments, contact Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness today and we will be happy to assist you with your first steps towards recovery. We have an extensive team of qualified physical therapists and specialists who care deeply about their clients and go above and beyond the call of duty to provide the highest quality treatment in the industry. If you are looking for a therapist who will carefully assess your individual needs and formulate a treatment plan that is specifically tailored to your needs, Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness is your preferred choice for the physical recovery professional.   Mon, 25 Nov 2019 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/20421/The-Unexpected--Lesser-Known-Benefits-of-Regular-Exercise-From-Your-Denver-Physical-Therapist http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/20399/Recently-Injured--Here-s-Why-You-Need-a-Parker-Physical-Therapist-as-a-Part-of-Your-Recovery-Journey blog The act of becoming disabled or injured as a result of an accident can be a devastating, isolating, and alienating process, as you are forced to adjust to unwanted and uncomfortable circumstances in a moment's notice. Indeed, situations like these can be extremely painful, both in terms of your physical and mental well-being, making your life an uphill battle and creating a great amount of unwanted adversity in your life. No one said experiencing a serious injury would be easy, but there are things you can do to make this journey a reasonable amount more bearable. One of those things includes having a Parker physical therapist on your team to ensure you will be supported along the way. Here's why you should seriously consider hiring a physical therapist to help you return to your desired health condition. Address Chronic Pain as a Result of an Injury One of the most common reasons you should consider seeing a Parker physical therapist is that they will be able to help assist you in your recovery journey, both to better health as well as reducing your overall painload. Chronic pain is one of the most troubling, stressful circumstances that a person can deal with, creating a great amount of additional difficulties to deal with in addition to life's day-to-day burdens. Pain management is one of the biggest reasons a person will seek out and benefit from a physical therapist, as they will be able to provide them with a series of exercises, stretches, and activities which can help to alleviate one's pain level. When you first see a physical therapist, they will assess your current situation, including your overall pain level, in order to determine what steps need to be taken as a part of your treatment plan. It's important to keep in mind that not every exercise or stretch will work great for everyone, as certain individuals may be struggling with a large amount of pain which can present a serious challenge for certain activities. A great physical therapist will take these factors into account and create a treatment plan which is designed for a specific person, making sure not to overdo it for those who will become overwhelmed with pain.  A Physical Therapist Can Speed Up Your Overall Recovery Time In terms of experiencing a serious injury, one of the biggest things that will present an issue for individuals is having to deal with a lengthy recovery process, one that can restrict them from enjoying the activities they have grown to love. This can be an incredibly stressful and difficult thing for people to experience, as it can prevent them from engaging in the things they love the most, taking away their positive coping skills and creating a new challenge to overcome in the process. Thankfully, a Parker physical therapist can help you resolve these issues by creating a unique, specialized treatment plan which will help you return to your old self. It's not just a matter of doing things on your own, as this will often not be enough. You will likely not have all of the information you need to know what you should be doing in order to improve your physical health in a speedy manner. It's important to see a physical therapist who can help you improve your situation in a faster period of time than if you had decided to simply go it on your own.  A trusted physical therapist will constantly assess your circumstances and make recommendations based on the amount of progress you have made. It's important to understand that the best physical therapists will always look out for their clients and have a firm understanding of what the next steps will be, knowing what a person's personal limits are in the process. You shouldn't have to experience excessive amounts of pain in the recovery process if your physical therapist is one that is listening to your needs and making recommendations based on their informed, professional opinion. You Don't Need to Be Injured to See a Physical Therapist Contrary to popular belief, you actually don't need to be recovering from a serious injury in order to need to see a Parker physical therapist. In fact, many individuals will see a physical therapist as a part of their regular health routine, as a physical therapist can offer you exercises and activities which will help improve your overall health. In the process of doing this, a physical therapist can also be a form of preventative medicine, as they will understand what activities you need to engage in order to reduce the chances of becoming injured.  If you've recently started to workout again after a long hiatus, a physical therapist can be a great resource to consult with, as they will advise you on the things you should and shouldn't be doing. A physical therapist can help create a personalized and specialized treatment program, with the idea of you reaching your desired health goals as a result. Physical therapists can also help individuals struggling with mobility and imbalance issues, providing exercises and activities which will improve and strengthen a person's overall movement patterns, habits, behaviors, and regular routines. If you are looking to improve your physical health situation is and are in need of physical therapy due to an accident or other physical ailments, contact Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness today and we will be happy to assist you with your first steps towards recovery. We have an extensive team of qualified physical therapists and specialists who care deeply about their clients and go above and beyond the call of duty to provide the highest quality treatment in the industry. If you are looking for a therapist who will carefully assess your individual needs and formulate a treatment plan that is specifically tailored to your needs, Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness is your preferred choice for the physical recovery professional.   Wed, 20 Nov 2019 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/20399/Recently-Injured--Here-s-Why-You-Need-a-Parker-Physical-Therapist-as-a-Part-of-Your-Recovery-Journey http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/20359/Here-s-Why-You-Should-Think-About-Starting-a-Regular-Yoga-Routine-From-Your-Parker-Physical-Therapist blog As we age, our bodies tend to become less limber and more stiff, potentially leading to a whole host of other health conditions which can negatively impact our overall well-being. This unfortunate fact of life can be prevented or at least slowed down, by following a regular workout routine which includes a yoga or stretching practice. This will help to maintain agility and functionality throughout one's life, preventing the slow decline into old age that many inactive individuals may begin to face as a result of their habits and routines. Starting a regular yoga routine is a fantastic way to combat this fact of life. Here's why from your Parker physical therapist. Improves Your Flexibility Perhaps the most obvious, straightforward reason to begin a regular yoga routine is that it will improve your flexibility. Performing various stretches will target each area of your body that needs to remain limber, ultimately benefiting your overall physical health as a result. Tightness in your body can play a major factor in pain, which is why doing yoga will help to loosen up your body and potentially reduce your pain level as a result. This will make you more able to complete activities which are more physically strenuous, such as skiing, rock climbing, running, and other more intense forms of physical activity.  In addition to becoming more flexible, you will also become more able to respond to situations which require you to be more limber and agile. Remaining stiff and immobile is a recipe to become seriously injured due to a slip and fall or other form of setback which can be the result of not being flexible enough. Performing a regular yoga routine may be a pain to initiate in the early stages, but your body will be thanking you for it in the long run, as you will be more prepared to handle all different types of activities.  Improves Your Posture A major reasons why you should consider a regular yoga routine is that it will seriously help you with your overall posture. Keeping your spine straight and erect is not something that is natural for many people, especially as we have become a more sedentary and immobile species, dedicated to looking down at our phones more than we would care to admit. Thankfully, yoga can help address this concern, as a regular practice will help benefit your body's posture, leading to other health benefits as a result. Your body can tend to slump, which can lead to fatigue, back and neck issues, and joint problems. Yoga can reverse these issues and reduce your chances of developing degenerative arthritis in your spine.  Increases Blood Flow In terms of things that are beneficial for your health, one of the biggest benefits to any form of physical activity is the fact that it will increase blood flow throughout your body. Any activity which increases blood flow will also help to circulate oxygen throughout all of the cells in your body, which can help with healing and restoring your body to an optimal level of health. You don't necessarily want to remain immobile, as this will reduce your blood flow and potentially lead to a number of health conditions as a result. Instead, practicing yoga regularly will help to boost your blood flow, leading to increased levels of hemoglobin in your body, which can decrease the chances of heart disease and stroke. Increases Your Mental Health Although practicing yoga on a regular basis can have profound physical health benefits, one of the biggest things to keep in mind is the effect it can have on your mental health as a result. This is because exercise and physical activities such as yoga will help to increase serotonin levels in your brain, as well as decrease the amount of monoamine oxidase, which is an enzyme that is responsible for breaking down neurotransmitters and increasing the chances of becoming depressed. Yoga also can have the profound health benefit of increasing mindfulness and boosting your sense of being grounded. A large component to yoga is the degree of mindful breathing that comes with each exercise. Many instructors will remind their students of how important breathing is when it comes to receiving the maximum level of benefit from any given pose. Yoga is a form of physical meditation, one that can connect a person to their body in a more deeper way than through other forms of exercise, as mindfulness is stressed throughout the exercises.  Boosts Your Focus In our busy world, focus and attention have taken a serious hit, as the amount of distractions present in our world have grown exponentially, making it difficult to complete many of the tasks we have on our plate. Thankfully, a yoga practice can boost our attention and focus level, as it trains our mind to become more rooted in our body and breaking the endless cycle of thoughts which can derail whatever we are attempting to focus on. Yoga also contributes to an increase in coordination, as we are more connected to all parts of our body, which is a result of paying greater attention to our physical selves, a major benefit to our mind-dominant culture. If you are looking to improve your physical health situation is and are in need of physical therapy due to an accident or other physical ailments, contact Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness today and we will be happy to assist you with your first steps towards recovery. We have an extensive team of qualified physical therapists and specialists who care deeply about their clients and go above and beyond the call of duty to provide the highest quality treatment in the industry. If you are looking for a therapist who will carefully assess your individual needs and formulate a treatment plan that is specifically tailored to your needs, Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness is your preferred choice for the physical recovery pro. Wed, 13 Nov 2019 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/20359/Here-s-Why-You-Should-Think-About-Starting-a-Regular-Yoga-Routine-From-Your-Parker-Physical-Therapist http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/20319/How-to-Prevent-Slips-and-Falls-From-Your-Denver-Physical-Therapist blog With winter fast approaching in the Denver area, the prospect of dealing with consistent, inclement weather is also on the horizon. Not only is this a concern for those who are unlucky to have to commute in their car to work, it is also something to be cautious of when walking on icy and slippery surfaces. Slips and falls during the winter time can be a major source of injury, regardless of a person's age. Broken bones, strained muscles, and concussions can all result from an untimely fall, leading to the need for extensive rehabilitation services. Instead of slipping and falling, here are some things you can do to prevent this situation from your Denver physical therapist. Be Mindful of Your Surroundings One of the best, most obvious ways to remain slip and fall free this winter is to constantly remain vigilant and mindful of your surroundings. If snow or ice is on the ground, look at the ground when walking as often as possible to ensure you don't accidently slip on an unexpected patch of ice. Taking the extra time to navigate icy terrain is another way to mitigate the possibility of falling, as you will have more room for error. Rushin on icy or slippery terrain is a recipe for falling, so give yourself ample time to get to where you are going. Strength Train and Improve Your Balance When you slip and fall, clearly you are losing your balance. One helpful way to avoid this situation from playing out is to regularly work on balance strengthening exercises, as this will make you more able to react in the event of a slip. One of the best ways to improving your balance is to strengthen the muscles used to maintain your balance, especially in your legs and core. Consult a trained physical therapist or personal trainer to get a set of exercises you can perform to reduce the chances of becoming injured as a result of a slip and fall. If you fall, your muscles will reflexibly tighten, making it important to stay limber and perform regular exercises on these muscle groups. Additionally, make sure the shoes and boots you are wearing have adequate traction to help mitigate against slippery surfaces.  If you are looking to improve your physical health situation is and are in need of physical therapy due to an accident or other physical ailments, contact Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness today and we will be happy to assist you with your first steps towards recovery. We have an extensive team of qualified physical therapists and specialists who care deeply about their clients and go above and beyond the call of duty to provide the highest quality treatment in the industry. If you are looking for a therapist who will carefully assess your individual needs and formulate a treatment plan that is specifically tailored to your needs, Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness is your preferred choice for the physical recovery process.   Tue, 05 Nov 2019 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/20319/How-to-Prevent-Slips-and-Falls-From-Your-Denver-Physical-Therapist http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/20295/Looking-for-the-Right-Parker-Physical-Therapist--Here-are-Some-Questions-You-Should-Ask-Them blog If you've recently been seriously injured, part of your recovery process will likely include some form of physical therapy, as this will help you achieve the outcome you are seeking in a faster fashion. It's important to stay informed throughout this process, which is why it's critical to ask your physical therapist a series of questions which will help to keep you in the loop on your recovery journey. Don't simply assume that every physical therapist will guide you through every step of the process, as some clinics are overloaded with clients and not always able to provide the best possible service. In order to be your own best advocate throughout the process, here are some important questions you should ask your Parker physical therapist. How Long Will My Recovery Process Take? In terms of commonly asked questions for your physical therapist, one of the most important ones you will inevitably ask is: how long will this process take? It's important not to simply believe that this will be included in your treatment plan, as it can get overlooked if you are not diligent about asking your Parket physical therapist how long the process will take. As with many aspects of your recovery, it is vitally important to be your own advocate so you can receive the best possible treatment and information from those who are tasked with treating you. As a part of your recovery, it is important to understand how long your recovery will take, to give you a realistic timeframe for when you can expect to return to normal activities. Being left in the dark will leave you to guess how long it will take, possibly leading you to make a mistake about whether or not you are ready to engage in whatever particular activity you would like to return to. Instead, get an accurate time frame of how long your recovery will take and ask regularly about how you are doing. If you are making a large amount of progress, recovery times can change depending on these factors.  What Will My Sessions Entail? For individuals who have never been through the process of physical therapy, the act of entering treatment can be something that is foreign and difficult to picture. Instead of guessing about what your sessions might look like, speak with your physical therapist about what your treatment will consist of, as they will be able to give you an accurate picture of what to expect. Of course, your treatment will depend upon your specific injury and what is needed to bring you back to your desired physical state. Beyond your specific injury, your physical therapy sessions will also depend on individual factors specific to your case. These include things such as your medical history, your age, your overall physical condition, and the events which led to your injury. A physical therapist will assess these factors before creating a realistic treatment plan for you to follow. Once they have created a treatment plan for you, your regular sessions will follow a protocol of exercises, stretches, and other activities that the physical therapist deems relevant to helping you regain your motion. These can change and evolve over time, and will be based on how well you are progressing in your treatment. Do You Commonly Treatment My Type of Injury? It's important to understand that not all physical therapists are equipped to handle all types of injuries. Although physical therapists are trained to be able to treat a wide variety of conditions, many physical therapists will not have the experience needed to fully address your specific condition in the best possible way. There are some PT's who will have more experience working with a certain type of injury, potentially making them a much better fit to treat your condition.  Before you begin the process of working with someone, think about asking them if they have experience working with your injury. If they don't, it's a good idea to consider asking them if they can recommend another therapist who is more experienced working with your particular situation. Some physical therapist develop specialty's a result of who they work with, making them more qualified to handle your situation.  Who Will I Be Working With? It can be easy to assume that the person who is the physical therapist will be the individual tasked with working with you, but this is often not the case. Instead, you may end up working with someone else, likely a physical therapy assistant, who will be doing the bulk of the work with you. Many physical therapists hire assistants to carry out the bulk of their sessions, and are simply there to set the treatment plan and to consult with patients on their progress and what they would like to receive throughout their treatment process. Additionally, it's important to ask whether you will be seeing the same person with each session, as this can contribute to the overall progress of your case. Seeing a different person each time can provide a poor sense of continuity of care for clients, making it a priority that you request to see the same person each time so they know what is needed for your situation. If you are looking to improve your physical health situation is and are in need of physical therapy due to an accident or other physical ailments, contact Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness today and we will be happy to assist you with your first steps towards recovery. We have an extensive team of qualified physical therapists and specialists who care deeply about their clients and go above and beyond the call of duty to provide the highest quality treatment in the industry. If you are looking for a therapist who will carefully assess your individual needs and formulate a treatment plan that is specifically tailored to your needs, Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness is your preferred choice for the physical recovery process.   Tue, 29 Oct 2019 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/20295/Looking-for-the-Right-Parker-Physical-Therapist--Here-are-Some-Questions-You-Should-Ask-Them http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/20266/Thinking-About-Hitting-the-Slopes-This-Season--Here-s-What-You-Need-to-Know-From-Your-Denver-Physical-Therapist blog When it comes to outdoor activities in Colorado, perhaps one of the most popular is skiing and snowboarding. The centennial state is known for its vast amount of ski resorts and destinations where powder addicts can fulfill their craving for the best possible action on the slopes. The 2018-19 season was filled with snowfall, providing endless opportunities for skiers and snowboarders to carve into their favorite run, offering both recreation and exercise is one fell swoop. But before you get amped up to take it to the mountains this year, it's important to be prepared, as an accident on the mountain can be extremely serious to your health, possibly even deadly. Here is what you need to know before you take it to the slopes this year from your Denver physical therapist. Stretch Early and Often It is especially important to regularly stretch during the course of a ski season, as this is one of the best preventative measures you can take to ensure you don't become injured. It's crucial to stretch all parts of your body that you will be using on a regular basis, as these will be much more vulnerable to injury. You will want to focus primarily on your lower body, as this will be the area that you will be using the most to traverse down the mountain. It's important to make sure you are stretching before you hit the slopes and afterwards, as this will help you prevent injury more easily than if you did not stretch. Areas which you should think about stretching include the hips, as you will be using this part of your body to turn. Engaging in squats while having your knees bent, making sure to keep both feet on the ground, is a great way to enhance your hip strength. Rotating from side to side while in this position will help to keep your hips loose, while also keeping your lower back engaged throughout the process. Stretching your hamstrings and calves will also help to provide the protection you need when you are hitting the slopes. Aerobics and Cardio Exercises One of the important things you need to be focused on prior to engaging in skiing and snowboarding is to make sure you are in peak physical shape in terms of your cardiovascular health. Although heading down hill may appear to be an easy activity to the laymen, anyone who has spent any amount of time on the mountain skiing and snowboarding knows how intense and grueling a day on the slopes can be. It is important to make sure you are in optimal cardiovascular health prior to hitting the mountain, as it will come back to bite you if you are not careful. Prior to skiing or snowboarding, it is important to engage in regular activities which raise your heart rate. Anything such as running, riding a bike, or jumping rope can be a helpful way to make sure your endurance level is where you need it to be prior to the ski season beginning. Many injuries can occur when your endurance level is not where it needs to be, causing you to strain yourself and overexert your body. If you are regularly engaging in cardio activities, you will be more prepared to handle the stress that can come with hitting the slopes. Additionally, you will get much more enjoyment out of your day, as you won't be constantly needing to catch your breath after every run. Make Sure Your Vehicle is Ready for the Snow Although it is absolutely important to think about all of the various ways in which you need to get ready physically for the ski season, you also need to be very mindful of the things needed to make sure your vehicle is ready for the season ahead. Skiing and snowboarding can be one of the most enjoyable activities you engage in in Colorado, but it is not worth risking your life for if you haven't taken the necessary precautions to ensure your vehicle is in optimal condition. Anyone who has spent any amount of time driving on I-70 in the winter time knows how treacherous the highway can be, especially in the midst of a snowstorm. Prior to heading up to your preferred ski resort, make sure your vehicle is ready to handle whatever a Colorado winter will be ready to throw at it. If you are not driving a vehicle with all-wheel drive, it is important to carry chains with you, as this is a new consideration not only for safety but also to remain compliant with traction laws. Additionally, regardless of whether or not your car has AWD, you will want to make sure you have the best possible tires to handle the roads. Studies have shown that tires make more of a difference in terms of driving in the snow that all-wheel drive, and it is important not to get arrogant simply because your vehicle has AWD. Consider investing in snow tires to double down on your car's traction, as this can be the difference between spinning out and crashing on the highway, and driving safely and smoothly to your destination. If you are looking to improve your physical health situation is and are in need of physical therapy due to an accident or other physical ailments, contact Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness today and we will be happy to assist you with your first steps towards recovery. We have an extensive team of qualified physical therapists and specialists who care deeply about their clients and go above and beyond the call of duty to provide the highest quality treatment in the industry. If you are looking for a therapist who will carefully assess your individual needs and formulate a treatment plan that is specifically tailored to your needs, Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness is your preferred choice for the physical recovery process.   Wed, 23 Oct 2019 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/20266/Thinking-About-Hitting-the-Slopes-This-Season--Here-s-What-You-Need-to-Know-From-Your-Denver-Physical-Therapist http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/20225/Thinking-About-Going-to-Any-Physical-Therapy-Clinic--Here-s-What-You-Should-Look-for-in-a-Denver-Physical-Therapist blog The act of locating the best Denver physical therapist can be a challenge, as there are seemingly endless numbers of clinics to sift through in order to find the one that fits your needs. Often times, you will be looking for a clinic after a serious accident and perhaps insurance will play a key role. Or perhaps you will have to pay out of pocket and you will be looking for a clinic who not only fills your specific injury needs but will also provide you will affordable services. Unfortunately, physical therapy can often be an expensive service to utilize, as clinics must meet their own financial needs during the course of business. But there are certain factors to consider above all others when locating the best Denver physical therapist for your recovery. They Take Your Individual Circumstance Into Account One of the key factors to consider when searching for a Denver physical therapist is to look for a practitioner who will think about your individual needs first and foremost. Often times, physical therapy clinics can make clients feel like they are being churned through a one-size-fits-all treatment approach, which can seriously overlook your personal needs and condition. It's not as if every person will be able to react the same way to all forms of treatment, and it is important to keep this in mind when searching for a physical therapist. The best physical therapists in Denver will look at all aspects of their clientele in order to formulate a treatment plan which effectively tackles and addresses their clients needs and treatment goals. If you are suffering from both knee and back pain, what works for someone with just knee pain will likely not be sufficient for you, as certain exercises may trigger your pain in your back. Bad physical therapists will overlook these elements and will not take the time to think about an approach that will address your concerns without causing you additional suffering in the process. They Offer You Realistic Treatment Outcomes When it comes to the health and wellness industry, one of the most common things which clients and patients can deal with is to navigate through a minefield of unrealistic expectations and promises from practitioners who are looking to gain as much business as possible. While it can be tempting to fall prey to unrealistic expectations, it will ultimately do you harm by not staying grounded within what is realistically possible.  Physical therapists who claim that you will be able to make an extremely fast recovery will not only set you up for disappointment, they may also set you back in your recovery process, as you may try to do too much too soon. One of the fastest ways you can regress in your treatment is to engage in activities which you are not suited for. Physical therapists who are overly optimistic and are not grounded in reality can do their clients a serious amount of harm. Always be cautious of physical therapists who are making proclamations which seem unrealistic and not achievable. Provide You with Fact-Based, Useful Information Outside of the exercises you will be practicing with your physical therapist, an important component to look for when searching for a quality Denver physical therapist is to find someone who can provide you with useful information for your specific situation. If you have been injured in an auto accident and are having a difficult time engaging in your favorite physical activity as a result, a strong physical therapist will give you information which will help you achieve a faster recovery so you can get back to engaging in that form of activity.  Often times, physical therapists will provide patients with information which is either too generalized or is not particularly relevant to their client's individual situation. Always request information which is relevant and helpful for your situation. Additionally, a physical therapist should also provide their clients with helpful alternatives in addition to physical therapy, as there are many other modalities which can help a client achieve a faster recovery. Things such as massage therapy, chiropractic work, and acupuncture can all help you in your recovery and a trusted physical therapist will be able to provide you with reliable practitioners in these fields. Cool and Compassionate Although it can seem like something of an afterthought, one of the most critical things to take into account when searching for a reliable Denver physical therapist is to find someone who is kind and compassionate. A physical therapist who appears to be disinterested in the well-being of their clients will not help you feel tended to and will likely make you feel less engaged in your own treatment as a result. Bed-side manner is often cited as something which every healthcare professional should have, but unfortunately this can be something that many physical therapy professionals lack. You should never have to put up with someone who is cold and not compassionate towards you as someone who is recovering from an injury. Always seek out a physical therapist who seems truly engaged in your treatment and will help you get back to where you need to be, as this is especially important. If you are in need of physical therapy, or have questions about what physical therapy consists of, contact Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness today and we will be happy to assist you with your first steps towards recovery. We have an extensive team of qualified physical therapists and specialists who care deeply about their clients and go above and beyond the call of duty to provide the highest quality treatment in the industry. If you are looking for a therapist who will carefully assess your individual needs and formulate a treatment plan that is specifically tailored to your needs, Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness is your preferred choice for the physical recovery process.   Tue, 15 Oct 2019 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/20225/Thinking-About-Going-to-Any-Physical-Therapy-Clinic--Here-s-What-You-Should-Look-for-in-a-Denver-Physical-Therapist http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/20124/Here-s-What-You-Need-to-Know-About-Exercise-From-Your-Parker-Physical-Therapist blog It's been said a thousand times: regular exercise is critical to maintaining your overall health. Simply eating fresh food and taking the necessary supplements for your body is not enough to keep yourself in the best possible health condition. You also need to exert yourself physically, whether it is in the form of strength-training, cardiovascular activities, or other things which will improve your physical health conditioning levels. Clearly, exercise is incredibly important to staying healthy, especially as we age. But simply exercising is not as straight-forward or as easy as you might think, as there are a number of components which can come into play. With that in mind, here is what you should know about exercise from your Parker physical therapist. Choose Activities Which You are Likely to Engage In If you haven't exercised in ages and the thought of going to gym is the last thing you would consider to be an enjoyable experience, it is important to find something which you will be likely to engage in. For instance, if you hate the thought of running but you are more inclined to want to get on a bike, consider enrolling in a spin class as a way to get your cardio activity. Whenever you are taking on a new habit, you should seriously think about the activities which you will be likely to engage in. However you can remove the barriers and obstacles to working out, the more likely it is that you will actually do it.  Making significant behavior changes requires a persistent mindset and a commitment to getting better, but you should also be realistic when you are taking on the task of a new workout routine. If you are thinking you will go from no exercise to running a marathon, you are simply setting yourself up for serious failure. Instead of shooting for the moon right off the bat, think about ways you can slowly wade into the waters of exercise, especially with activities you enjoy. Sports can be a terrific way to achieve your exercise goals while also having fun. Think about the things you enjoy the most in relation to physical activity, and pursue these activities as much as possible.  Be Careful Not To Overdo It When people begin to exercise when they haven't done so in ages, often individuals are tempted to go from zero to a hundred in a short amount of time. The idea of making up for lost time can be appealing for people who are wanting to catch up to their more active peers, but this can be a recipe for disaster, as you may end up overdoing it and regretting your decision. It's important to ease into physical activity if you haven't worked out in a long time, as it can be dangerous to your health in a number of ways.  For instance, if you are overweight or have circulation issues, making the decision to overexert yourself can be extremely dangerous to your health, as you may end up experiencing serious repercussions as a result. Don't ever overdo it when it comes to exercising, as you may end up seriously injuring yourself in the process. Going too hard, too soon can prevent you from reaching your health goals, as you may be incapacitated for a long period of time and will be incapable of working out. Whenever you haven't worked out a long time, make sure to take your time and start slow, eventually building to more serious and strenuous activities.  Consider Working Out in a Group If you haven't worked out in a long time, it can be difficult to start this type of habit on your own accord. The prospect of going to the gym or simply going for a run in your neighborhood can feel like pulling teeth, making it much less likely that you will actually go out and do it. In order to increase the chances that you will actually complete the task, it can be a great idea to consider working out in a group. Consider finding someone you are close to who will want to work out together with you, as this can increase the odds that you will actually complete the activity.  Having someone to hold yourself accountable can dramatically increase the chances of you starting a new routine, as you will have to make an excuse to another person why you can't workout instead of just yourself. And let's face it: it's always easy to tell yourself why you don't need to do something, but telling someone else is much more difficult. Think About Gyms Which Are Close To Your House If you have had a long day at work, often the last thing you will want to do after you get home is to get stuck in traffic driving a gym that is far away from your home. For this reason, it is definitely wise to think about joining a gym which is close to either your home or the office, as it will make it much more likely that you will actually go. With any new behavior, it is always best to remove the barriers to completing the activity, and having a gym close by is a great way to ensure you end up taking advantage of your gym membership. If you are looking to improve your physical health situation is and are in need of physical therapy due to an accident or other physical ailments, contact Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness today and we will be happy to assist you with your first steps towards recovery. We have an extensive team of qualified physical therapists and specialists who care deeply about their clients and go above and beyond the call of duty to provide the highest quality treatment in the industry. If you are looking for a therapist who will carefully assess your individual needs and formulate a treatment plan that is specifically tailored to your needs, Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness is your preferred choice for the physical recovery process.   Wed, 25 Sep 2019 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/20124/Here-s-What-You-Need-to-Know-About-Exercise-From-Your-Parker-Physical-Therapist http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/20083/The-Benefits-of-A-Regular-Mindfulness-Practice-From-Your-Denver-Physical-Therapist blog Health benefits come in all forms and facets of life. From your mental and physical well-being, to your spiritual and social life, keeping your health in peak form requires a persistent and driven mindset to maintain all critical components of your life. It's not just a matter of going to the gym regularly and trying to eat healthy, fresh food. While that is certainly an important part of the equation, it's also important to keep your mind sharp and free from many things that can drag you down. There are many benefits to keeping a regular mindfulness practice to be aware of from your Denver physical therapist.  Improves Your Mental Health One of the most critical and well-known benefits of maintaining a regular mindfulness practice is that it can improve your overall mental health. In 2019, the modern world can present many challenges to remaining still and present in our daily life, as there are endless distractions and activities which can present significant hurdles to you and your mental health situation. For this reason, keeping up with a regular mindfulness practice can allow you to improve your individual health with each day. Mindfulness has been shown to reduce anxiety and depression, providing an individual with a grounding space to connect with themselves and become more centered. Provides Benefits to Your Physical Health  While mindfulness is certainly something which can offer significant benefits to you with regards to your mental health, it can also provide immense benefits when it comes to your physical health as well. Mental stressors can creep in to many aspects of one's life, not just your mental space. There has been a correlation between individuals who are stressed and many chronic physical health conditions, including hyper-tension and heart disease. One of the best ways you can overcome these conditions is to practice a regular routine of mindfulness, which can provide immense long-term benefits to your physical health. By reducing stress, mindfulness can have a profound effect on your body, reducing the incidence of chronic disease and other issues which can contribute to a poor health situation. Practicing mindfulness can be a primary component to achieving all of your health goals in your life. If you are looking to improve your physical health situation is and are in need of physical therapy due to an accident or other physical ailments, contact Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness today and we will be happy to assist you with your first steps towards recovery. We have an extensive team of qualified physical therapists and specialists who care deeply about their clients and go above and beyond the call of duty to provide the highest quality treatment in the industry. If you are looking for a therapist who will carefully assess your individual needs and formulate a treatment plan that is specifically tailored to your needs, Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness is your preferred choice for the physical recovery process.    Wed, 18 Sep 2019 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/20083/The-Benefits-of-A-Regular-Mindfulness-Practice-From-Your-Denver-Physical-Therapist http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/19911/Thinking-of-Improving-Your-Health--Here-s-Why-Everyone-Should-Seriously-Consider-a-Regular-Stretching-Routine-From-Your-Denver-Physical-Therapist blog There are many behaviors and routines a person can engage in which can significantly improve one's overall health situation. You've likely heard of the regular refrain of eating healthy, fresh food and getting plenty of exercise as being a primary path to staying in peak physical health. It's no secret that some of the most simple activities practiced on a regular basis can have seriously profound results for you and your body. Sometimes the most simple actions are the ones which need to be practiced the most. This is certainly true when it comes to stretching, as this simple, but extremely important activity can have many health benefits for both injured and healthy individuals alike. Here are some of the biggest benefits of stretching from your Denver physical therapist. Increased Flexibility We've probably all seen individuals walking around who are noticeably stiff and in need of more flexibility. Often, these individuals are older, as a lack of stretching and regular physical activity tends to build up and compound as a person gets older. However, being stiff and immobile person is not simply limited to people who are elderly, as younger people can also begin to show signs of not being limber, especially if they are not staying up to date with their workout routine and stretching exercises. Being flexible has many health benefits, both in terms of posture as well as overall functionality when it comes to one's health. If you are stiff and are not especially flexible, any kind of physical activity will present issues for you and you will likely be less capable of completing the activity if you are not stretching on a regular basis. It can not only help you when you are competing in strenuous exercise, but regular stretching can also improve your most basic physical activities.  Increases Blood Flow In terms of maintaining your overall health condition, one of the best ways you can achieve this goal by increasing your blood flow, as improved circulation is one of the most important things you can do. A lack of blood flow in your body can lead to a whole host of serious health complications, such as a heart attack, stroke, and decreased physical alertness and responsiveness.  By performing regular stretches, you not only improve your overall physical flexibility, but you accomplish the goal of increasing your blood flow. By doing this, you will shorten your recovery time after intense workout sessions, as blood flood is an important component to aiding in your physical recovery time. It can also help you reduce your muscle soreness in the even that you exert yourself too much during a workout, for the same reasons.  Helps Prevent the Onset of Chronic Pain Conditions When it comes to developing chronic pain conditions, one of the worst things you can do in addition to not regularly working out is to also forgo regular stretching exercises. By regularly stretching, a person is able to improve their overall range of motion, allowing you to loosen your muscles much easier, which in turn prevents you from feeling cramped and lacking mobility. Stretching will reduce the likelihood of chronic pain, as you will be much less tight and not as vulnerable to injuring yourself. A muscles strain can affect many aspects of your life, as you may not be as capable of performing regular activities, especially those which require a large amount of physical exertion and movement.  Improved Mental Clarity In terms of improving your overall health, regular stretching can not only benefit your body but can also improve your overall soundness of mind. This is one of the big reasons yoga has seen a massive rise in popularity in recent years, as it is not only an activity done to improve one's physical flexibility, but it also improves mental clarity and can calm the mind. Yoga is one of the best and most widely-practiced forms of stretching, and yoga studios are a dime a dozen in the Denver area.  While stretching is not always something which is easy to practice, as it can be intimidating to jump into an intense stretching exercise, the benefits of stretching can improve one's focus as well as make one feel more confident and less depressed. Often, individuals can find themselves getting stuck in a rut because they are too focused on their mental processes. Stretching allows a person to get out of their head and into their body in a very simple, quick fashion.  Great For Stress Relief If you've been keeping up on your regular workout routine, one of the things you may find is that your body will build up a certain amount of stress. This is also true in general, as we tend to hold our stress in our body, no matter if it originated from a workout or simply a stressful day at the office. Regularly stretching our body can be a great way to relieve this stress, as it will cause your muscles to lighten up and to release this stress in the form of a particular stretch. Stretching is not just to stay limber, it is also a great way to stay sane! If you are looking to improve your physical health situation is and are in need of physical therapy due to an accident or other physical ailments, contact Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness today and we will be happy to assist you with your first steps towards recovery. We have an extensive team of qualified physical therapists and specialists who care deeply about their clients and go above and beyond the call of duty to provide the highest quality treatment in the industry. If you are looking for a therapist who will carefully assess your individual needs and formulate a treatment plan that is specifically tailored to your needs, Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness is your preferred choice for the physical recovery process.   Wed, 21 Aug 2019 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/19911/Thinking-of-Improving-Your-Health--Here-s-Why-Everyone-Should-Seriously-Consider-a-Regular-Stretching-Routine-From-Your-Denver-Physical-Therapist http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/19772/How-Staying-Active-Can-Improve-the-Overall-Quality-of-Your-Life-From-Your-Parker-Physical-Therapist blog Improving the quality of your life can require careful attention to your behaviors and habits, as they can make up the sum totality of your overall health situation. Whether it is practicing proper stress management techniques, getting enough regular sleep, or simply working out regularly, there are a number of things a person can do to remain fit and physically well for as long as possible. One of the best ways of improving the quality of one's life is to remain physically active, as the health benefits are numerous and cover a number of different areas of one's life. With that in mind, here are some of the biggest benefits to staying active from your Parker physical therapist. It Keeps You Feeling Young, Preventing You From Falling Behind Many young people believe they can simply coast through their life without having to get regular exercise in their schedules. When we're younger, we tend to feel much more invincible, incapable of feeling the downsides of being stagnant and not moving. Unfortunately, this is not the case, as heart disease, obesity, and other health conditions can befall a person no matter how old they are. One of the most important reasons why you should get regular exercise is to keep your body in peak physical condition. If you make the decision not to work out on a consistent basis, you will find yourself climbing out of a whole once you attempt to work out regularly. The longer you wait to workout, the more effort will be required in getting you back into the shape you need. You shouldn't wait to workout for the moment you are out of shape, as being proactive will allow you to workout without it being a huge chore. The less obstacles to remaining physically fit, the better. It Helps With Your Mental Health There are certainly plenty of physical health benefits associated with working out regularly, but perhaps one of the best reasons you should remain physically active is due to the many mental health benefits which come with being active. Exercise can help a person struggling with depression and anxiety, as exercise can help boost one's mood and overall sense of purpose. If you are looking to improve your physical health situation is and are in need of physical therapy due to an accident or other physical ailments, contact Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness today and we will be happy to assist you with your first steps towards recovery. We have an extensive team of qualified physical therapists and specialists who care deeply about their clients and go above and beyond the call of duty to provide the highest quality treatment in the industry. If you are looking for a therapist who will carefully assess your individual needs and formulate a treatment plan that is specifically tailored to your needs, Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness is your preferred choice for the physical recovery process.   Wed, 24 Jul 2019 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/19772/How-Staying-Active-Can-Improve-the-Overall-Quality-of-Your-Life-From-Your-Parker-Physical-Therapist http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/19736/How-to-Rebound-From-a-Serious-Injury-as-Fast-as-Possible-From-Your-Denver-Physical-Therapist blog If you have recently been injured in a serious accident, you are undoubtedly thinking about the ways in which you can return to your original glory as soon as possible. Being out of action is never a pleasant experience to have to navigate through, whether it be your preferred physical activity or simply doing basic activities around the house. The rehab process can often be a painful, grueling affair which can lead to plenty of heartache and endless frustration, as you grapple with your new reality and figure out how to adjust to your present predicament. However, there are certain techniques and strategies you are able to employ which can help speed up and expedite the healing process. With that in mind, here are some of the things you can do to help recover as fast as possible from your Denver physical therapist.  Receive Professional Treatment Immediately When it comes to serious injuries, one of the most important things you can do as an individual is to be as proactive as possible and seek professional help as soon as possible. On that point, one of the worst things a person can do is to not address the issue and let it linger a long time before receiving treatment. If you are hurt, you can certainly make things worse by not taking the necessary steps to restore your health. If you have injured your foot but are not addressing the issue, you can exacerbate the situation by continuing to walk on it without treatment. A doctor will be able to help determine the severity of your injury and set a course for how you can recover from the injury. Depending on the severity and specifics of your injury, you will likely have multiple health professionals advising you on each particular part of the process. In addition to your primary care physician, you will also be working with a trusted Denver physical therapist to ensure you take the steps needed to achieve your health goals.  Follow the RICE Method With regards to the things you can do on your own to help speed up the injury recovery process, one of the best and easiest things to remember is to follow the RICE method, which stands for Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation. Regardless of what kind of injury you have and the severity of it, you will likely benefit from following this type of protocol, as it is a tried and trusted method for helping to aid in the recovery process. First, rest and don't overdo it when it comes to physical activity. Rest can allow your body to recover instead of continuing to put strain and stress on it. Putting additional stress on a serious injury can cause it to get worse and make the overall recovery process much longer as a result. Instead, take the necessary precautions and stay off the injured part of your body as long as possible. Ice the area on a consistent basis for about 20-30 minutes during each occasion as a way to reduce bleeding, swelling, and pain.  Compression is also a recommended activity to engage in regularly, as it can help prevent additional swelling in the affected area. You will want to do this especially in the first 48 hours of the injury, as this is when swelling can be at its worst and most painful. Finally, you should definitely think about elevating the affected area, as this will also cause a reduction in swelling in the areas around the injury. For the lower limbs of the body, keep your ankle above your hip and for upper limb injuries, make sure to use a pillow or type of sling to elevate the affected area. Determine a Plan of Action and Stick to It When it comes to recovering from a particular injury, one of the things you will inevitably face is the need for a change in behavior. Let's be honest: change is hard and isn't a straightforward, easy path. Often, it requires continued persistence and willpower in the face of old, less beneficial habits which will need to be overcome. This is magnified when you are recovering from an injury, as your bad habits will often make things worse.  For instance, if you are dealing with an injury which has persistent inflammation, you may need to change your diet and physical activity regimen, as this can be contributing to your overall inflammation levels. Recovering from an injury quickly can require making a plan of attack for how you can overcome the situation as fast as possible. Although it can be incredibly difficult to get beyond long-term habits, it can be absolutely essential to make a change as a way to achieve a much faster recovery.  In terms of helping to speed up the recovery process, making positive health changes which impact our overall health outcomes can have the most profound effects on our recovery process. Often, an injury can force us to finally get beyond the nagging habits which have persisted and continued to cause us harm. Instead of bemoaning your current predicament, try to use the injury as a valuable tool towards achieving overall health goals.  If you are looking to improve your physical health situation is and are in need of physical therapy due to an accident or other physical ailments, contact Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness today and we will be happy to assist you with your first steps towards recovery. We have an extensive team of qualified physical therapists and specialists who care deeply about their clients and go above and beyond the call of duty to provide the highest quality treatment in the industry. If you are looking for a therapist who will carefully assess your individual needs and formulate a treatment plan that is specifically tailored to your needs, Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness is your preferred choice for the physical recovery process.   Wed, 17 Jul 2019 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/19736/How-to-Rebound-From-a-Serious-Injury-as-Fast-as-Possible-From-Your-Denver-Physical-Therapist http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/19696/Here-are-Some-Important-Health-Trends-to-Be-Aware-of-in-2019-From-Your-Parker-Physical-Therapist blog When it comes to your health in 2019, there are several trends which are important to be aware of. If you're looking to stay physically fit and healthy, there are a number of things which every person should make themselves aware of. It's not just a matter of eating fresh, whole foods and getting plenty of regular exercise anymore. No, in 2019, there are quite a few health trends which are breaking the mold of the average refrain and are making interesting for anyone looking to set themselves apart from the rest of the pack. With that in mind, here are some of the most important health trends to be aware of in 2019 from your Parker Physical Therapist. Bio-Hacking Galore This may not be a term you are familiar with, but the idea of bio-hacking has taken off in recent years, as people look to find ways to optimize and improve their mental and physical health using helpful tricks, supplements, and other ways of achieving improved performance. One such way is through the use of legal nootropics, which can provide the brain with increased performance as well as an increase in clarity of mind and focus.  Another popular trend which has continued to gain in popularity is the practice of intermittent fasting, which is where a person will regularly fast, usually at least 16 hours of every day, as a way to improve one's particular health situation. Fasting allows the body time to regenerate cells and has shown incredible benefits in almost every area of life, showing how this slightly lost art is actually a very important part of human health. Many people have also taken this to the next level and are also performing multiple day fasts to achieve the maximum benefit of this activity. The Importance of Mindfulness Many people have begun to see the benefit of a regular mindfulness practice in terms of their overall health. It's not just a way to zen out and feel at peace; it can have profound benefits which can lead to improved overall well-being, as a person is able to be more present and attentive to things in their life they value and care about. This is definitely something every person should look into in some form or another, no matter your experience level.  If you are looking to improve your physical health situation is and are in need of physical therapy due to an accident or other physical ailments, contact Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness today and we will be happy to assist you with your first steps towards recovery. We have an extensive team of qualified physical therapists and specialists who care deeply about their clients and go above and beyond the call of duty to provide the highest quality treatment in the industry. If you are looking for a therapist who will carefully assess your individual needs and formulate a treatment plan that is specifically tailored to your needs, Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness is your preferred choice for the physical recovery process.   Wed, 10 Jul 2019 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/19696/Here-are-Some-Important-Health-Trends-to-Be-Aware-of-in-2019-From-Your-Parker-Physical-Therapist http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/19661/Heading-to-the-Mountains-this-Summer--Here-s-What-You-Should-Know-Before-You-Go-From-Your-Denver-Physical-Therapist- blog The prospect of heading to the rocky mountains during the summer time is something that is almost on every person's mind in the nearby vicinity of the mountain range. Getting to the mountains is a staple for people who live in Denver, whether it's for a nice morning trail run, a mid-day hike, or simply to visit one of the many cute mountain towns which offer people plenty of recreational activities. Indeed, one of the biggest perks about living in the mile high city is the easy access to endless amounts of outdoor activities, activities which provide both fun and fitness. It's no secret that Colorado is one of the most fit states in the nation because of this fact. But before you head out to take advantage of our state's natural beauty, here are some things you should be aware of from your Denver physical therapist. Shade Yourself From the Sun and Stay Hydrated! Ok, you've probably had a few situations in the past where you were so excited to go on a hike during the weekend that you dashed out of your house without considering all of the things that you need. It can be easy to want to get to the mountains as fast as humanly possible, as there will be many other individuals looking to do the same thing during this time. But it's important to gather up all the necessary items you will need to make your trip to the mountains a success. There's nothing worse than getting to the mountains and realizing you didn't bring an essential item which can turn your trip into a less than desirable experience. Essential items to remember to bring include things such as sunscreen, a sun hat, and plenty of water. Without a doubt, the most important item you can bring with you is to have plenty of water, especially if you are going to an area which is far away from any town or city with amenities. One of the worst situations you can find yourself in is to be on a long mountain hike and realize you don't have enough water. Having to hurry down with a parched throat can not only be uncomfortable, but it can also be extremely dangerous, as dehydration can lead you to pass out and turn a fun afternoon hike into a nightmare. In addition to water, having protection from the sun, whether in the form of adequate clothing to cover your skin or sunscreen can be vital to making this experience enjoyable. Even if you are a person who tans relatively easy, it's a good idea not to bask in the sun to excess, as it can leave you tired and drained the rest of the day. The sun at higher altitudes can burn your skin much faster, as there is less atmosphere between you and that giant ball of fire in the sky which keeps this whole life thing going. Stretch and Remember Not To Overdo It If you're heading into the mountains, whether for a hike, a bike ride, or any other physical activity, it's always wise to remember to stretch before you engage in this activity. Although hiking may seem like a tame activity at first, hiking in the mountains can actually be very strenuous, especially if you are coming from a lower elevation area. It's not a good idea to simply go on a mountain hike or other activity without first properly stretching. Focus primarily on your legs, as this will be the thing which will likely experience the most amount of exertion during your time in the mountains.  In addition to stretching, one of the most important things to keep in mind is to remember not to overdo it when you head into the mountains. It can be easy to want to push your limits, as that is what mountain adventures are all about, but it's not a good idea to overdo it, especially if you haven't exercised in a long time. It's always good to scale up to larger hikes, as you don't want to feel wrecked as a result of pushing it too hard. Although fourteen thousand foot peaks are one of Colorado's most favorite outdoor activities, this is something that should not be pursued by someone who hasn't been exercising regularly.  Go With Friends, And Make Sure to Let Someone Know Where You're Going Heading to the mountains can be one of the most enjoyable experiences you can have outside, as this massive formations can remind anyone of their place in this world. Staring up at the peaks of the rocky mountains are both awe-inspiring and humbling, and should also include a fair amount of reverence. Although mountains have a spiritual and warm component to them, they can also be extremely hazardous to people who are not careful. For this reason, it's definitely a good idea to go into the mountains with at least one other person, as doing activities by yourself can lead to getting caught in a situation which can quickly turn into an emergency. You certainly don't want to have to call search and rescue just because you lost your route and are now lost in the wilderness. If possible, go with friends who are also into the outdoors as much as you. If you're a novice, think about going with someone who is more experienced and can guide you in the right direction.  If you are looking to improve your physical health situation is and are in need of physical therapy due to an accident or other physical ailments, contact Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness today and we will be happy to assist you with your first steps towards recovery. We have an extensive team of qualified physical therapists and specialists who care deeply about their clients and go above and beyond the call of duty to provide the highest quality treatment in the industry. If you are looking for a therapist who will carefully assess your individual needs and formulate a treatment plan that is specifically tailored to your needs, Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness is your preferred choice for the physical recovery process.   Wed, 03 Jul 2019 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/19661/Heading-to-the-Mountains-this-Summer--Here-s-What-You-Should-Know-Before-You-Go-From-Your-Denver-Physical-Therapist- http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/19637/Simple-Steps-Every-Person-Can-Take-to-Ensure-You-Remain-in-Optimal-Health-From-Your-Denver-Physical-Therapist blog Summer is almost fully upon us, and with it will come endless amounts of outdoor activities to engage in. Colorado is one of the healthiest, most fit states for a good reason: the number of ways a person can engage in physical exercise outdoors is almost endless. Hiking, biking, rafting, mountain climbing, and bouldering are just a few of the popular activities which individuals in the centennial state will engage in during the summer months. Indeed, these are truly beneficial activities to keep you in a positive physical state, but they're not the only things. There are many simple steps a person can take to keep themselves healthy. Here are a few of them from your Denver physical therapist. Balance Your Diet, Reduce Your Alcohol Consumption We said simple steps, didn't we? Indeed, one of the best things that you can do for your health is to eat a balanced diet, complete with all of the proper micro and macro nutrients you body needs. Whenever possible, it's best to eat a diet which is composed primarily of whole foods with ingredients you can pronounce. Even if you make the decision to eat our regularly, it's best to choose an option such as a salad or bowl which contains plenty of fresh ingredients. You can still indulge in the occasional unhealthy meal, but it's definitely wise to eat a balanced diet whenever possible.  And although Colorado is loaded with craft breweries and distilleries, this doesn't mean you need to be frequenting one every single night of the week. Alcohol consumption can impact your health in a multitude of ways, both physically and emotionally, and finding ways to reduce your consumption will have a huge impact on your overall health situation. You don't necessarily have to abstain from alcohol altogether, as this can be particularly difficult for individuals with an active social life. But finding ways to reduce consumption can go a long way towards reaching your health goals and living the kind of life you deserve. You can still drink booze on weekends and have a great time, but one helpful approach to consider is to simply restrict your drinking to certain nights of the week in order to reduce your overall consumption levels.  If you are looking to improve your physical health situation is and are in need of physical therapy due to an accident or other physical ailments, contact Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness today and we will be happy to assist you with your first steps towards recovery. We have an extensive team of qualified physical therapists and specialists who care deeply about their clients and go above and beyond the call of duty to provide the highest quality treatment in the industry. If you are looking for a therapist who will carefully assess your individual needs and formulate a treatment plan that is specifically tailored to your needs, Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness is your preferred choice for the physical recovery process.   Wed, 26 Jun 2019 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/19637/Simple-Steps-Every-Person-Can-Take-to-Ensure-You-Remain-in-Optimal-Health-From-Your-Denver-Physical-Therapist http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/19587/Important-Things-to-Keep-in-Mind-When-You-re-Exercising-From-Your-Parker-Physical-Therapist blog Exercise is one of the most important things you can do as a human being to maintain your physical health. It's been said from a thousand different sources, but the fact remains that exercise is essential if you want to live a healthy and productive life. Without exercise, our bodies are not as able to adapt to other environmental factors such as disease and other types of ailments. Indeed, it is always worth repeating that exercise should be something every person engages in, no matter your age or skill level. But there are some important things to be aware of prior to taking the plunge into your preferred form of physical activity. Here are some tips from your Parket physical therapist with regards to exercise. Find The Exercise You Love to Do If you currently don't exercise and you're thinking about taking the important step of beginning a regular workout regimen, it's important to find something which doesn't take a lot of effort to motivate yourself to do. Many people who don't exercise view physical activity as a chore which is difficult to engage in. If you've been immobile for much of the past few years, the prospect of getting your heartrate up can be intimidating, making it much less likely that you'll actually go out of your way to exercise. But here's the thing: exercise doesn't need to be this impossible, difficult to achieve activity which is an absolute chore to engage in. Many people dread the idea of going to the gym, as they don't have the first idea about what form of exercise they enjoy doing. This brings up one of the most important factors when it comes to beginning to exercise regularly: if you actually want to go out of your way to do it, you will need to reduce obstacles to getting it done. Perhaps the most important obstacle to overcome is the belief that exercise isn't fun or enjoyable. In order to accomplish this, it's essential to find an activity which will make the act of exercising a much more accessible and enjoyable prospect. It may be difficult to presently imagine, but exercise can actually become one of your most enjoyable activities, one that you will eventually begin to look forward to. Although many people think there's not a single exercise they enjoy, they'll soon realize they haven't considered the vast amounts of exercise which a person can engage in.  Did you enjoy swimming as a child? Perhaps water aerobics might be the best option for you. Are you someone that enjoys riding a bike? Consider taking a spin class or joining a bicycle group. Maybe you're someone who enjoys playing a team sport, such as basketball. Playing hoops is a terrific way to get in both strength training and cardio exercise, and it can be a fun and competitive activity to boot. Clearly, there are almost endless types of exercise which can provide you with an enjoyable alternative to simply running on a treadmill or working out on a machine. Once you find the activity you enjoy most, the act of exercise will become a breeze and not such a terrible chore which you receive no joy from. Be Aware of Your Body After you've discovered the type of exercise that motivates you to get moving, you will want to make sure you are taking the necessary precautions and not overexerting yourself. Many injuries happen when a person is not listening to what their body is telling them, and they end up overexerting themselves in the process. It's always important to listen to what your body is telling you throughout your workout, as it will let you know if you are pushing it too hard or simply need a few minutes to rest and regain your strength. If you have been immobile for a long period of time, any type of cardio exercise can feel scary and make you realize how important it is to return to normal physical activity. If you haven't worked out in a while, it's definitely a good idea to scale up slowly before you push it too hard. It's certainly not a good idea to try to run 5 miles if you haven't been on a run in 5 years. Whenever possible, listen to what your body is telling you and take what it says seriously, as ignoring this fact can lead to serious injury. Be Sensible So you've just discovered your newfound love of rock climbing and you're wanting to push the limits of this exciting form of exercise. While rock climbing is certainly a fun and challenging workout, it is not something you should take lightly. A mistake can lead to serious injury or death, turning your productive workout into your worst nightmare. When it comes to exercise, especially forms of exercise which are risky or dangerous, it is always advisable to be sensible when you are exercising. Don't go on a trail run without an adequate amount of water. Don't hike in areas where there might be severe weather present. Don't do anything that can make it more likely to be injured. Just be sensible! If you are looking to improve your physical health situation is and are in need of physical therapy due to an accident or other physical ailments, contact Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness today and we will be happy to assist you with your first steps towards recovery. We have an extensive team of qualified physical therapists and specialists who care deeply about their clients and go above and beyond the call of duty to provide the highest quality treatment in the industry. If you are looking for a therapist who will carefully assess your individual needs and formulate a treatment plan that is specifically tailored to your needs, Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness is your preferred choice for the physical recovery process.   Wed, 19 Jun 2019 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/19587/Important-Things-to-Keep-in-Mind-When-You-re-Exercising-From-Your-Parker-Physical-Therapist http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/19540/Have-You-Injured-Your-Knee-Recently--Here-are-Some-Strategies-to-Return-to-Optimal-Health-from-Your-Denver-Physical-Therapist blog The act of becoming injured can be a difficult process to work through, especially if you have lost essential functions or abilities as a result of the injury. This can be especially true of knee injuries, situations which can cause you to not be able to walk for long periods of time or have limited mobility in your overall physical situation. It's not just a matter of waiting for your body to heal, however, as there are a number of tips and strategies you can employ in order to get better and in a faster overall recovery time. If you have been injured recently, specifically with regards to your knees, here are a few tips and strategies to be aware of from your Denver physical therapist.  Always Warm Up Regardless of whether or not you have injured your knee, it is always important to warm up prior to engaging in any physical activity. This is something you should be more than familiar with if you happen to be an athlete and have engaged in physical activity for a long period of time. But this reality is absolutely crucial when you have been injured, as tightness can lead to situations where you injury can get worse or inflamed, causing you great stress and pain in the process. You certainly want to avoid this from occurring, as it can set you back and make your overall recovery process much longer than you would like it to. A great strategy to employ when it comes to warming up is to ride a stationary bike for at least two minutes. This is a great way to get into your physical body without stressing your system too quickly or fast, and it's also a low stress on your knees, the part of your body you should be careful to protect during the timeframe This will not only help your knees deal with less shock when you begin to exercise them, but it will also lower the risk of triggering your injury and will allow you to get more out of your workout, an essential for anyone serious about their exercise routine. Straight Leg Raises If you're trying to provide a boost to your overall recovery time, one of the best ways you can improve the process is to do regular exercises and stretches which not only strengthen your knee but help to stimulate the healing process. Contrary to what you might believe, it's not a good idea to go completely without any physical activity during your recovery period, as you want to maintain a certain level of activity in order for your knee not to lose all of your pre-injury strength. Performing straight leg raises are one way you can keep your knees active as they recover from whatever injury you may have sustained recently. In order to perform this exercise, lie on your back and on the floor while bending one knee and placing your foot flat on the ground. With your other leg, keep it straight and lift it off the ground repeatedly. You will want to do this anywhere from 10-15 times in sets of three, as this will allow you to help strengthen your knee with repeated and consistent use.  Wall Squats Let's be honest: performing wall squats are definitely something you should be doing regardless of whether or no you were recently involved in an incident where you knee was injured. Wall squats are a great way to improve your overall posture from the top of your back down to your butt. A correct posture can help alleviate many issues you may be dealing with, and this definitely includes your knees. While this is a more advanced move, it is certainly something which you shouldn't overlook when you are looking for exercises which can help to strengthen your knees current level of conditioning. In order to perform this exercise, you will want to stand with your back against a wall and have your feet approximately shoulder length apart. Perform the exercise by slowly bending your knees while keeping your neck and back straight flush against the wall. Once your knees are bent, hold the position for about 5-10 seconds without bending too deeply. If you aren't feeling the stretch and feel like you could be getting more out of the exercise, consider repositioning in order to gain the maximum benefit of this stretch. Repeat the exercise several times as a method of good conditioning and practice. Step Up Exercises One of the best ways you can help to support the overall health of your knee is to perform step up exercises as a way to strengthen and boost your knee in its recovery process. In order to perform this exercise, you will want to keep your pelvis level and bend your knee while also steadily lowering the opposite foot to the floor. You will want to repeat this exercise about 10-15 times before you switch legs. As a matter of good practice, it's always a good idea to perform these exercises for both legs, as this will help to provide the strength boost you need in both legs.  If you are looking to improve your physical health situation is and are in need of physical therapy due to an accident or other physical ailments, contact Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness today and we will be happy to assist you with your first steps towards recovery. We have an extensive team of qualified physical therapists and specialists who care deeply about their clients and go above and beyond the call of duty to provide the highest quality treatment in the industry. If you are looking for a therapist who will carefully assess your individual needs and formulate a treatment plan that is specifically tailored to your needs, Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness is your preferred choice for the physical recovery process.   Wed, 12 Jun 2019 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/19540/Have-You-Injured-Your-Knee-Recently--Here-are-Some-Strategies-to-Return-to-Optimal-Health-from-Your-Denver-Physical-Therapist http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/19508/TRX-training-guideline-from-your-Denver-physical-therapist blog TRX is one of the most popular workout programs out there, and it's only gaining in popularity. The TRX program is based on bodyweight strength training, and provides participants with the opportunity to tone and improve their endurance. While TRX training only requires your body weight and suspension trainers, there are a few other things you should know before starting a TRX program - straight from your Denver physical therapist.  The Benefits Research has shown that TRX training helps to improve metabolism, which positively affects your strength and cardiovascular endurance. Through improving your cardiovascular endurance and strength you can begin to lower your risk for cardiovascular disease. TRX has been used to strengthen the muscles, increase flexibility, and improve balance. In addition to the overall health benefits, an hour of TRX can burn approximately 400 calories depending on your current physical fitness level. Perhaps one of the biggest benefits is the fact that TRX needs minimal equipment, as already discussed, which means you can complete a TRX workout virtually anywhere.  Important Things to Know You might want to consider connecting with a personal trainer for your first few sessions of TRX training. While beneficial, it can be easy to harm yourself if you aren't properly prepared.  Classes are also an option in getting started, it might help to be surrounded by others also enjoying a TRX workout! If you do attend a class, you shouldn't have to bring anything besides yourself. You will need to take it slow when starting a TRX training regime. TRX can be used to build strength, but it must be done incrementally to be effective.  Getting Started If you decide not to connect with a personal trainer to being your TRX training regime, you have a few options. There are apps, home systems, and even DVDs and additional media you can access to help get you started with TRX. In addition to getting the proper training set up, you will also need to explore your options for TRX suspension systems. You'll want to look and consider the quality of the straps, the handles, and the price. Most systems will even come with the support of an app or DVD - explore those options as well.  Training Tips There are some tips you can keep in mind for TRX training:  Train with a partner or group to stay accountable Train outside Focus on your nutrition as well  Ask for help if you need it!  If you are looking to improve your physical health situation is and are in need of physical therapy due to an accident or other physical ailments, contact Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness today and we will be happy to assist you with your first steps towards recovery. Our extensive team of qualified physical therapists and specialists go above and beyond the call of duty to provide the highest quality treatment in the industry. If you are looking for a therapist who will carefully assess your individual needs and formulate a treatment plan that is specifically tailored to your needs, Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness is your preferred choice for the physical recovery process.   Wed, 05 Jun 2019 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/19508/TRX-training-guideline-from-your-Denver-physical-therapist http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/19478/Here-are-Some-Helpful-Reminders-to-Keep-You-Safe-and-Healthy-During-the-Summer-Months-from-Your-Denver-Physical-Therapist blog The summer is nearly here and with it comes plenty of physical activities. For residents of Colorado, the summer is one of the best times of the year for getting outside and remaining physically active. Whether it's hiking, biking, rafting, or backpacking, the centennial state offers almost endless options for individuals looking to up their physical activity regimen levels. Indeed, summer is a great time for people who enjoy the outdoors, as warmer weather can allow people the opportunity to engage in plenty of activities they can't do during the winter months. With that in mind, here are some tips to help keep you safe and healthy during the summer months from your Denver physical therapist. Stretch Often Before Strenuous Activities If you're getting ready to engage in serious physical exercise, it's always a good idea to stretch before handhttps://people.com/health/we-tried-it-nyc-stretch-relief/. This is not only to keep you limber and loose for whatever activity it is you are about to engage in, but it is also recommended for your safety and as a way to avoid injuring yourself. Indeed, stretching is one of the best ways you can prevent injury and avoid situations where you may trip and fall as a result of being tight. This is the reason yoga has seen a rise in popularity, as it is viewed as a fantastic way to limit injury and remain loose.  Don't Try to Do Too Much Too Fast One of the biggest traps people fall into during the summer months of the year in the state of Colorado is they end up engaging in activities which they are totally unprepared for. If you've never hiked in your life, it's probably not a good idea to start with a 14,000 foot peak. These types of hikes should only be taken after you've gained a certain level of experience and feel confident in your ability to navigate this type of terrain. Taking risks and engaging in activities which are outside of your skill level not only puts yourself at danger, it also risks the chance of having to have someone else come rescue you, which can actually cost you a serious amount of money.  If you are looking to improve your physical health situation is and are in need of physical therapy due to an accident or other physical ailments, contact Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness today and we will be happy to assist you with your first steps towards recovery. We have an extensive team of qualified physical therapists and specialists who care deeply about their clients and go above and beyond the call of duty to provide the highest quality treatment in the industry. If you are looking for a therapist who will carefully assess your individual needs and formulate a treatment plan that is specifically tailored to your needs, Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness is your preferred choice for the physical recovery process.   Wed, 29 May 2019 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/19478/Here-are-Some-Helpful-Reminders-to-Keep-You-Safe-and-Healthy-During-the-Summer-Months-from-Your-Denver-Physical-Therapist http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/19443/Why-You-Should-Always-be-Your-Own-Best-Advocate-From-Your-Denver-Physical-Therapist blog If you've recently been injured in a serious accident, whether it be from a sport or in an auto accident, one of the things you will have to deal with throughout your recovery process is a number of practitioners telling you what you should do. This will come in the form of lawyers telling you where you can and can't go, doctors telling you to get a certain treatment or procedure, and insurance companies telling you what will and will not be covered throughout the recovery process. It can be akin to being put through the ringer, an unfortunate reality when it comes to personal injury situations. If you're in this predicament presently, here are some of the reasons why it's always best to be your own advocate from your Denver physical therapist. Practitioners are Not Always Looking Out for Your Best Interest Although the vast majority of doctors and medical professionals have the best intentions when it comes to your treatment, there are still a handful of people who see your situation as a way to cash in and milk your insurance for all that its worth. If you are seeing a doctor of physical therapist who makes you feel like they care more about the number of billable services they can charge for instead of looking out for your best quality of care, you should seriously consider seeking out alternatives, as you don't deserve this level of care. There are many clinics which see accident victims, particularly individuals who are going through auto insurance, as nothing but dollar signs. These clinics are looking for every possible service they can charge your insurance for, as they know you likely won't have to pay for anything out of pocket. While it can be tempting to jump on every service they offer, it may not always be in your best interest when it comes to your quality of care. For instance, some practitioners may push chiropractic services when your particular situation may not call for it. Always remember to trust your best instincts when it comes to your treatment so as to avoid being put through the recovery gauntlet. Research Your Options and Don't Always Stick With the First Choice So you've been referred to go to physical therapy and you've been given a preferred provider which your insurance would like you to go to. Often, these type of clinics may not always be the best possible option for your particular situation, and they can actually be less than ideal when it comes to your particular condition. It is always best to consider researching your options in your area to see what other clients have said about their treatment and what type of reviews particular practitioners have. Your insurance may refer you to a clinic which has less than favorable reviews, a situation you probably would like to avoid as much as possible. In the course of researching a clinic, it's best to take a couple of different factors into account before making a final decision. First, you should seek out the opinion of trusted professionals, if you happen to know any in that particular area, as you will want to consult with every outlet before deciding on a clinic. If you have a friend or family member who was in a similar situation as you, you may want to ask how their experience was with the clinic and if they would recommend them for your situation. You will also want to research if their clinic specializes in your particular condition, as certain physical therapists may be better suited to treat your condition than others. It's always best to find multiple options to pick from, so you don't feel too limited when making your final decision. Find Support as Much as Possible If you've been involved in a serious accident or have suffered a significant injury, you haven't just experienced a traumatic incident to your body; you're likely also dealing with emotional and mental trauma as a result. Your accident may prevent you from engaging in the activities you find the most joy from and which are crucial to your overall identity and life's purpose. For instance, a serious leg injury can significantly alter your life if you are a runner or are involved in an activity which is dependent on your leg functioning at a high level. An injury can cause you emotional stress, as you may no longer be able to fulfill your highest desired activities as well as you once did. With regards to these situations, it's always best to seek out a support system outside of your close family and friends. If you are a victim of an auto accident, there are likely support groups available in your area which target this particular situation. Receiving peer support from people who have been through or are still going through a situation similar to yours can make your recovery process less intimidating and less isolated. Understanding that you are not alone and that there are others going through the same type of situation as you can provide tremendous benefit to your overall recovery. You don't need to go through this situation alone, and it's best to find the support you need. If you are looking to improve your physical health situation is and are in need of physical therapy due to an accident or other physical ailments, contact Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness today and we will be happy to assist you with your first steps towards recovery. We have an extensive team of qualified physical therapists and specialists who care deeply about their clients and go above and beyond the call of duty to provide the highest quality treatment in the industry. If you are looking for a therapist who will carefully assess your individual needs and formulate a treatment plan that is specifically tailored to your needs, Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness is your preferred choice for the physical recovery process.   Wed, 22 May 2019 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/19443/Why-You-Should-Always-be-Your-Own-Best-Advocate-From-Your-Denver-Physical-Therapist http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/19404/Tips-on-how-to-properly-stretch-from-your-Denver-physical-therapist blog There are many reasons you should stretch, and as our team at Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness knows, they aren't all workout related. Stretching can help improve circulation, increase range of motion, reduce stress, improve coordination, and even relieve joint and muscle pain. By taking time to stretch, you are increasing the blood flow to your muscle groups, just another reason that stretching can, and should, be incorporated into your daily routine.  Your Denver physical therapist is here with the most important stretching dos and don'ts when stretching. Always remember, that when it comes to physical exercise during recovery always abide by your physical therapist's recommendations.  Dos:  Remember that static stretching is important in maintaining flexibility but it is most helpful after working out, not prior. By stretching after a workout you can help with prevent extreme muscle soreness in the days following your workout.  Stretch sore muscles throughout the day, even during a workout. For example, while you are working out your legs, stretch your arms in between sets. Stretching between workout sets in general can help stretching become part of your routine.  Use traction (such as resistance bands) to help stretch joints and increase your range of motion when stretching.  Always control your stretching. It's important to be careful to control stretching to make sure you are stretching the appropriate muscle groups as intended.  Stretch your tightest muscle first. Tight muscles can inhibit your full range of motion, making it difficult to get the most out of your full workout.  Continue stretching throughout your workout, and stretch surrounding muscle groups. By doing this you will achieve a greater range of motion and help to strengthen your body. Rolling on a foam roller and utilizing resistance brands and cords can help achieve this. Hold each stretch for at least thirty seconds. Holding stretches for at least thirty seconds will give your body time to relax and lengthen muscles.  Never bounce when stretching! Bouncing can cause microtears within your muscles and cause greater problems later with flexibility and range of motion. Don'ts:  Avoid stretching first thing in the morning, instead we recommend stretching after being awake for a few hours. Do not hold your breath while stretching! Holding your breath will cause your muscles to tense, which is the opposite of what you are wanting to do. Taking deep breaths while stretching and maintaining a normal breathing pattern will help to keep your body relaxed.  When working out, don't workout the muscle you just spent time stretching. Stretch with the goal in mind to help loosen your muscles, not to use them again.  If you are experiencing any pain during exercise it's extremely important that you discuss your symptoms with your doctor or physical therapist. If you are looking to improve your physical health situation and are in need of physical therapy due to an accident or other physical ailments, contact Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness today and we will be happy to assist you with your first steps towards recovery. Our extensive team of qualified physical therapists and specialists go above and beyond the call of duty to provide the highest quality treatment in the industry.    Wed, 15 May 2019 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/19404/Tips-on-how-to-properly-stretch-from-your-Denver-physical-therapist http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/19341/The-Importance-of-Seeing-a-Trusted-PT-From-Your-Denver-Physical-Therapist blog When you get into an accident, the hardships and stress you will suffer as a result of this accident can be difficult enough. Dealing with and adjusting to a new reality can present all sorts of challenges to you as you begin the recovery and healing process. It's not just a matter of getting well physically; often, a great amount of mental and emotional pain can accompany any sort of serious injury and it's important to be aware of this when you begin this journey. A huge part of your recovery will be guided by the physicians and medical professionals who assist you in your recovery process. It's incredibly important to choose trusted professionals when you are in the process of forming your recovery team. Here's why from your Denver physical therapist. Your Physical Therapist Will be Crucial to Your Overall Recovery Process In the course of embarking on this long, potentially intimidating journey to get back to optimum physical health, one of the most important factors will be which physical therapist you decide to go with. As with many medical professions, there are a ton of physical therapy options on the market to decide from as a consumer, as it's important to be aware of what to look for when making the ultimate decision of who you would like as your primary practitioner.  Unfortunately, not all physical therapists are created equal, and it's definitely a smart idea to be mindful of what practice you decide to go with. A physical therapist will play a crucial role in your recovery process, perhaps even being the most important factor when it comes to your overall recovery timetable. These professionals will undoubtedly be working with you extensively, likely many times per week during the initial phase of your injury. Selecting someone who will work well with you is key if you are going to select the Denver physical therapist who is right for you and satisfies your individual and specific needs. Which Physical Therapists You Should Definitely Consider Avoiding As we stated earlier, there are a wide range of physical therapists to choose from, which can be an overwhelming decision to make early on in your recovery. It's important to be aware that although the vast majority of Denver physical therapists will be competent, knowledgeable and caring professionals who will sufficiently guide you towards wellness, there are also a handful of professionals who will not be the best option for you. Simply put, there are a few physical therapists you should definitely avoid, which is why it is good to recognize the characteristics of a less than ideal option. If your physical therapist is ignoring you in the treatment process and isn't listening to your needs, you should seriously consider utilizing the services of another professional. Remember, your medical professional is working on the behest of you and what is best for you, and your opinion and perspective should never be devalued or overlooked. You are the one living your life in your body, and a smart and considerate Denver physical therapist will definitely value your input when formulating your treatment plan. Another type of physical therapist you should seriously consider avoiding is the one who will constantly pester you into accepting a wide variety of treatments which you feel are unnecessary. These types of practices are often trying to bill your insurance as much as possible, especially if you were injured in an auto accident or another type of personal injury situation. If you believe your physical therapists is valuing their payout from your treatment over your treatment itself, you should definitely think about going elsewhere.  Choose the Therapist Who Works With You In treatment situations, it can be easy to simply fall back and rely solely on the opinion of the medical profession who is providing you with their expertise, but it's also crucial to remember that your perspective and input are a serious and essential component in the journey to become well. A physical therapist who is committed to working for their patients' best interest will certainly and unequivocally advocate in support of their client and acknowledge the value of their perspective.  You should never feel overlooked or ignored throughout your treatment process, and this also includes the formulation of your specific treatment plan. A physical therapist who is trusted will likely ask their patients a series of questions which provide insight into what that particular client values and what sorts of exercises and treatments will best help their overall treatment goals. If you haven't partaken in the goal-setting process with your physical therapist, you should consider bringing it to their attention. The road to getting well again can be fraught with professionals who are not the most knowledgeable or are not fully advocating for their clients, an unfortunate reality that many people should keep in mind during their process of searching for the right physical therapist. Throughout the process, you should always remember to remain your own best advocate, as no one else can truly tell you what is best for you and your unique situation. Seek out a physical therapist who will help you fulfill your treatment goals and be someone who works for you instead of against you.  If you are looking to improve your physical health situation is and are in need of physical therapy due to an accident or other physical ailments, contact Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness today and we will be happy to assist you with your first steps towards recovery. We have an extensive team of qualified physical therapists and specialists who care deeply about their clients and go above and beyond the call of duty to provide the highest quality treatment in the industry. If you are looking for a therapist who will carefully assess your individual needs and formulate a treatment plan that is specifically tailored to your needs, Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness is your preferred choice for the physical recovery process.   Thu, 09 May 2019 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/19341/The-Importance-of-Seeing-a-Trusted-PT-From-Your-Denver-Physical-Therapist http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/19287/Why-you-shouldn-t-ignore-pain-from-your-Denver-physical-therapist blog Pain is something that thousands of people ignore on a daily basis - but should you? Body aches and pains can oftentimes be indicative of a greater physical problem that might require you to see a doctor or Denver physical therapist.  There are a few pains that you shouldn't worry about, including workout pain and soreness. Workout pain, such as the soreness and burning that comes from lifting weights, isn't something to be concerned about. This pain is caused by lactic acid buildup, and it should stop almost immediately upon putting down your weights or jumping off the treadmill.  Days after a workout you might still experience muscle soreness, this is also common and nothing to be concerned about. Muscle soreness post-workout means your body is still recovering and that you worked your hardest throughout the workout! However, there can be a few things you should worry about when it comes to muscle aches and pains. Pains you should worry about Pain that decreases your range of motion. If you are experiencing pain that decreases your full range of motion, then you should seek the counsel of a healthcare professional. When evaluating this, be sure the pain is restricting your motion and not just something that is uncomfortable for you because of post-workout soreness.  Pain that does not go away. If you are experiencing pain that does not go away, even after treatment and care, than you should seek a doctor's assistance. Pain that doesn't better after treatment could be the sign of something more. Pain that is accompanied with additional symptoms. If your pain is accompanied with pressure, bruising, fever, and chills you need to speak with a doctor.  Pain that is intense and constant. This is an important one. If you are experiencing constant pain, or the pain is so intense you feel nauseous and experience vomiting it is extremely important that you seek the care of a doctor or other healthcare professional. Pain in your wrist, forearms, and fingers. Pain in your wrist, forearms, and fingers that is numbing, tingling, and consistent could indicate carpal tunnel which will require additional treatment.  Pain in your chest. If you experience any out of the ordinary chest pain, especially pain that migrates into your jaw or neck, you should call an ambulance immediately or visit your nearest hospital/urgent care facility. Pain in the lower right abdomen. Pain in your lower right gut, when accompanied by nausea, fever and/or vomiting means you could have appendicitis. Appendicitis is a life-threatening infection and should be taken care of immediately.  If you are experiencing any pain, it's extremely important that you discuss your symptoms with your doctor or physical therapist. If you are looking to improve your physical health situation and are in need of physical therapy due to an accident or other physical ailments, contact Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness today and we will be happy to assist you with your first steps towards recovery. Our extensive team of qualified physical therapists and specialists go above and beyond the call of duty to provide the highest quality treatment in the industry.    Wed, 01 May 2019 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/19287/Why-you-shouldn-t-ignore-pain-from-your-Denver-physical-therapist http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/19246/The-Steps-You-Need-to-Take-After-Getting-into-a-Serious-Car-Accident-From-Your-Denver-Physical-Therapist blog If you've been injured recently in a serious auto accident, you might be feeling stressed, overwhelmed, and utterly confused about what your first steps are after the accident. Other than the legal ramifications of the accident, the most important factor involved in these types of events is to assess your health situation and whether you are going to require extensive amounts of rehab and therapy. It's not an easy situation to address, but it certainly can be something which is not a simple or straightforward process. If you're feeling confused about what the first steps are going to be with regards to your recovery, here is what you need to know from your Denver physical therapist. Did You Suffer a Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)? One of the most important things to be concerned with after you are involved in a serious car accident is to determine whether you have a serious traumatic brain injury, something which can significantly alter the course of your life. A TBI is something which can change your cognitive functioning, as well as your personality and relationships. After experiencing a TBI, you will need to undergo extensive rehabilitation of all kinds, not just from a physical therapist.  Depending on the severity of the injury sustained during this incident, you may also require serious speech therapy and other forms of treatment in combination with one another in order to successfully tackle the issue. It's not just a matter of waiting things out and hoping they will get better in time. The best approach to these types of situations is to be as proactive as possible in order to fully address this issue. It may not be as serious as it initially appears and it is always important to remain positive throughout the rehabilitation process. Talk to a Lawyer If you've been involved in a serious car accident, you will likely want to seek the services of a trusted law firm who can help guide you through the murky world of personal injury law. Although it can be tempting to want to represent yourself, the amount of work required in order to achieve a desired result is likely not worth the hassle. You may also make many mistakes throughout the process, as insurance companies are always trying to get out of not paying as large of a settlement as they can.  Find a Trusted Medical Rehabilitation Team After you've gone through the process of trauma care and are in the early phases of your recovery care, you will want to find a trusted medical team to help you begin your road to recovery. In order to return to your optimal state, you will need to have a trusted and competent team of medical professionals supporting you through this difficult process. It's not just a matter of seeing any doctor, physical therapist, or chiropractor, as there are many practitioners who are much more skilled and knowledgeable with regards to your specific condition. You will certainly want to make yourself aware of what resources are available to you in your area and do as much homework as you can before making the decision to go with a particular practitioner. As mentioned earlier, not every practitioner is created equal, and it is vitally important to be your best advocate with regards to your treatment. Just because a person is in the medical profession does not mean they will always understand exactly what you need, as every individual is different and has different needs. Do you want to get back to hiking strength? Do you have a particular physical activity you engage in? These are things a trusted medical professional will need to know in order to give you the best possible care you deserve. Follow the Plan If you have been injured in a serious car accident, you will certainly want to get back to your desired condition as soon as humanly possible. In order to do this, you will want to diligently follow the advice of your treatment team in order to achieve the results you seek. Often, physical therapists and other professionals will give you a series of stretches and other activities to do every day as a way to strengthen and empower your recovery. It's not just a matter of attending your appointments and then waiting to take action in between. Instead, you should be as proactive as possible when dealing with your treatment plan. Follow the specific advice of your treatment team and utilize every possible resource at your disposal in order to speed up the recovery process. Take care to follow through on your treatment plan and make sure you engage in every activity that is recommended to you. This will allow your body to go through the healing process much faster and will make it more likely that you will be back on your feet in no time. Recovery is a long process, but it doesn't need to be an excessively long process. This is assuming that you do everything you can to make this happen. As always, being proactive is always the best course of action when it comes to your recovery path.  If you are looking to improve your physical health situation is and are in need of physical therapy due to an accident or other physical ailments, contact Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness today and we will be happy to assist you with your first steps towards recovery. We have an extensive team of qualified physical therapists and specialists who care deeply about their clients and go above and beyond the call of duty to provide the highest quality treatment in the industry. If you are looking for a therapist who will carefully assess your individual needs and formulate a treatment plan that is specifically tailored to your needs, Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness is your preferred choice for the physical recovery process.   Wed, 24 Apr 2019 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/19246/The-Steps-You-Need-to-Take-After-Getting-into-a-Serious-Car-Accident-From-Your-Denver-Physical-Therapist http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/19148/How-to-start-an-exercise-regime-from-your-Denver-Physical-Therapist- blog Spring has arrived and with summer months just around the corner you might be considering starting a new exercise regime. Starting a new exercise regime is the best think you could possibly do for your health - exercise will help prevent diseases, improve sleep, increase coordination, and release endorphins that leave you feeling happy and content for hours after exercise. You might be wondering how to start a new exercise regime - we have tips from your Denver physical therapist.  Current State Evaluation Take a few moments to evaluate where you currently are in your fitness journey. Doing so includes a few different things:  What's your resting heart rate?  What's your heart rate when you feel that you are at max effort? How long does it take to run a mile? What is your Body Mass Index (BMI)?  How much do you weight? What are your measurements? It's important to know where you are starting so that you can measure progress as you continue your fitness journey. Weight is not always an indicator of fitness improvements, so be sure to keep tabs on all of your base numbers as time goes on.  It might be helpful to snap some photos of where you are at now as well. It's hard to see the progress you've made day-to-day, but it can be easier to see your progress with photos that are taken 30, 60 and 90 days apart.  Your Plan Next it is time to formulate your plan - but you need to figure out a few things before doing so. What are your fitness goals and how fast do you want to reach them? Knowing where you want to be will keep you motivated and focused on your fitness goals. If you are unsure where to start, contact Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness, we can help.  Getting Started When you have a fitness goal in mind and are ready to achieve it, it's easy to want to get there as quickly as possible. That might lead to over exercising, extreme dieting, injury, and burnout. Take starting your new exercise regime slow and progress with caution. A professional can help guide you in this aspect, and help ensure that you are taking the right steps to meet your long term fitness goals.  Challenging your body will result in change, punishing it and pushing yourself too hard immediately will not result in anything! When you are just getting started, be sure to plan variety into your workouts as you can. Take your time, and do exercises right - even if it means less reps! Doing an exercise right will be far more beneficial then doing them wrong.  Variety will keep things interesting, keep your body from getting complacent, and ensure you are ready to go for your workout.  When you are getting started with your workout make sure you leave enough time for recovery. Your body needs recovery, particularly when starting a new exercise regime. Address your concerns for recovery with the professional who will work with you to achieve your fitness goals. It's okay to be honest and open with your fears, and hesitations.  The next part you need to consider is what you will be doing to achieve your fitness goals - then secure the necessary memberships and equipment. Are you going to be swimming three times a week? Unless you have a pool at your home, you will need to get a gym membership for a club that has an accessible pool. What about weights? If you are looking to lift weights, you will either need to purchase a gym membership or the weights needed to accomplish your workout at home. No matter what, if it's been awhile since you've worked out you will most likely need to invest in a new pair of athletic shoes. You don't have to go to the gym to get your physical activity in - some people just prefer it. Your Routine You have a plan, and you've gotten started. Be sure to stick with your routine. Having a routine will help to form healthy habits and keep you on track to reach your fitness goals. Not only is an exercise routine essential, but having a routine with your diet will help as well.  Your Diet No matter your fitness goals, a healthy diet will be essential in reaching them. No matter how dedicated your exercise regime is, you can't outrun a poor diet. Consult with a healthcare professional as to what you should be eating to fuel your body and reach your goals. Diet needs will vary person to person and rely heavily on what goals you are trying to reach and accomplish. Consider talking to your healthcare professional about the benefits of supplements - sometimes these can lessen recovering time and make it easier on your muscles post-workout. Don't Give Up It will take time to see results. Don't give up on your progress and your goals if you don't see anything within a week or two. Consistency is key, and it will be the driving force behind being successful in your fitness journey. Remember why you started your fitness journey, and stay positive! Great things take time, and you won't regret putting in the effort now. Measure Your Progress Remember how we talked about setting goals and taking base measurements? It's important to measure your progress every few weeks. Run that mile again, re-calculate your BMI, take your heart rates, and write down your latest measurements. Measuring your progress will keep you motivated and moving towards your goals.  As always, be sure to connect with a healthcare physician before starting a new exercise regime or changing your diet considerably. If you are looking to improve your physical health situation and are in need of physical therapy due to an accident or other physical ailments, contact Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness today and we will be happy to assist you with your first steps towards recovery. Our extensive team of qualified physical therapists and specialists go above and beyond the call of duty to provide the highest quality treatment in the industry.    Wed, 10 Apr 2019 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/19148/How-to-start-an-exercise-regime-from-your-Denver-Physical-Therapist- http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/19028/How-to-Make-2019-Your-Best-Year-for-Physical-Fitness-from-Your-Parker-Physical-Therapist blog Are you a Coloradan resident seeking to improve your overall physical health situation? You're not alone, as the centennial state is one of the healthiest and most physically fit states in the United States. If you've ever been to a state park or popular hiking trail on the weekend, you are well aware of the fact that people in Colorado love physical activity, as there are nearly endless ways to get exercise through outdoor activities in the area. If you're wanting to make improvements to your overall health condition in 2019, here are a few helpful tips to follow from your Parker physical therapist. Find a Physical Activity You Actually Enjoy One of the most difficult parts about getting regular physical activity for many people is that it can be hard to motivate yourself to continue pursuing it, especially if you view the activity as a chore. The best way to stay on a consistent regimen of physical activity is to find one that you enjoy doing and one that will be easy to do on a consistent basis. When a person has a long day at the office, often the last thing they will want to do is exercise after work. This fact is compounded if the activity they are looking to do requires them to drive a long distance. First, you may want to locate a gym that is close to your house, meaning you won't have to drive home and then get stuck in traffic again just to work out. It's best to make things as convenient as possible on yourself, as starting a new habit is difficult enough. The easier it is for you to engage in the activity, the better. This also applies to the activity itself, as any activity that is enjoyable will make it much more likely that you will actually complete the task.  If you have a hard time working out because you don't enjoy running, perhaps you can think about a class or other form of exercise that you find enjoyment from. You may also want to think about finding a workout buddy for as a way to help motivate you to keep exercising on a consistent basis. If you are looking to improve your physical health situation is and are in need of physical therapy due to an accident or other physical ailments, contact Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness today and we will be happy to assist you with your first steps towards recovery. We have an extensive team of qualified physical therapists and specialists who care deeply about their clients and go above and beyond the call of duty to provide the highest quality treatment in the industry. If you are looking for a therapist who will carefully assess your individual needs and formulate a treatment plan that is specifically tailored to your needs, Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness is your preferred choice for the physical recovery process. Wed, 27 Mar 2019 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/19028/How-to-Make-2019-Your-Best-Year-for-Physical-Fitness-from-Your-Parker-Physical-Therapist http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/18927/Tips-for-Overcoming-a-Serious-Injury-From-Your-Denver-Physical-Therapist blog When a person experiences a serious injury, the road ahead can be long and arduous, as it can take an extended period of time before a person returns to their ideal condition. Recovering from a serious injury is not an easy thing to do, as it can often mean a person will need to engage in a ton of physical therapy and other rehabilitation moralities. Clearly, a person will not have an easy path ahead with if they experience a significant injury. Thankfully, there are plenty of resources and things a person can do to help speed up the process, giving one hope that they will be able to return to a healthy and productive life. Consult with Many Medical Professionals  In order to achieve a sustainable and lasting recovery, you will definitely want to consult with as many medical professionals as possible. Having many opinions about your current state is a recommended path forward, as you won't simply be dependent on the opinion of just a single medical professional. No matter how much you may trust your doctor or preferred specialist, it doesn't hurt to have a second or third perspective in order to receive the most well-rounded opinion on the matter. This may not always be the most feasible path forward, as it may depend on your insurance coverage and your ability to pay for many visits to the doctor or any other type specialist. It's not just a matter of going to a hundred doctors as you may simply not be able to see more than one doctor as a result of your particular situation. However, if you can possibly afford to visit more than one doctor it can certainly be worth the additional hassle.  Attend Support Groups One thing that many people who experience a serious injury may want to consider is to look into are particular support groups which target a specific condition. Individuals who experience a head injury or something such as becoming paralysed may want to seriously consider the benefits of attending a helpful support group. These specific groups can provide individuals with an invaluable resource, especially when a person is feeling alone in their recovery process. Support groups are not just for people who are struggling with an addiction or reeling from the loss of a loved one. People of all different kinds of conditions can benefit from attending a group of your peers. Having the help of individuals experiencing the same condition as you can offer a very helpful and tool to assist a person with their journey back to wellness. The road back to optimal physical health is not always a path that can be easily walked by one's self, and the benefit of having a supportive system in place cannot be overlooked in the grand scheme of things. It has been demonstrated by many examples of the transformative potential of having more than just one's self as a way to improve their situation. People are much more likely to complete their recovery process if they have a group encouraging them along the way. Follow Your Doctor and Physical Therapist's Recommendations If you want to achieve the fastest possible recovery and get back to your optimal level of wellness, it's always a great idea to follow the recommendation of your doctor and physical therapist. They may provide you with things such as exercises, activities, or stretches which will help speed up the process. Admittedly, starting a new habit, no matter how important or necessary it may be, can be a difficult process to endure. It's not simply a matter of beginning the new regimen of activities and new behaviors just like that, as it can be a difficult process to simply undergo. As with any change in life, taking the steps recommended by one's doctor can be challenging and difficult, but it is absolutely essential for a person to follow the advice of their trusted medical team, as this will lead to the fastest possible recovery. It may not be enjoyable or the most fun thing to do to engage in a physical therapy regimen, do yoga, or go to any other form of rehab, but these are the things most critical in terms of a person's recovery process. Simply put, doing the necessary steps will be what turns a potential six month recovery into a four month process. Take Care of Yourself A serious injury can admittedly be a very traumatic thing for an individual to endure, as it may mean the loss or restriction of one's favorite and most enjoyable activities. A serious injury can also lead to the loss or change of one's identity, as it can mean a person may become disabled or less capable at certain activities than they previously were. Obviously, these situations are the last thing anyone would ever want to have to deal with, but life can often be unforgiving and not always play out the way we envision it. In these situations, it is absolutely imperative that a person treat themselves with the most positive self care activities possible. Engage in helpful and supportive activities which serve to uplift and strengthen a person's overall resolve and attitude toward their predicament. If you are looking to improve your physical health situation is and are in need of physical therapy due to an accident or other physical ailments, contact Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness today and we will be happy to assist you with your first steps towards recovery. We have an extensive team of qualified physical therapists and specialists who care deeply about their clients and go above and beyond the call of duty to provide the highest quality treatment in the industry. If you are looking for a therapist who will carefully assess your individual needs and formulate a treatment plan that is specifically tailored to your needs, Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness is your preferred choice for the physical recovery process. Wed, 13 Mar 2019 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/18927/Tips-for-Overcoming-a-Serious-Injury-From-Your-Denver-Physical-Therapist http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/18761/How-to-Stay-Healthy-During-the-Winter-Months-From-Your-Denver-Physical-Therapist- blog Let's face it: the winter time can be a difficult period for many people when it comes to their overall level of fitness and physical health. Cold weather can spell an immobile fate for many people who allow the cold to prevent them from continuing to workout regularly. Unfortunately, winter months can often be a period of time where people begin to put on excess pounds and become out of shape, as the winter can restrict outdoor activities and physical activity in general. If you're someone who wants to remain physically fit during this period of time, here are a few helpful hints to consider from your Denver physical therapist. Get a Gym Membership If the cold weather has you down and prevents you from working out as much as you would like to, you may want to seriously consider finding a gym to join. Having a gym is not necessarily a recipe for remaining in physical health, as you will actually need to attend the gym regularly in order to receive the plethora of benefits offered by this service. However, a gym is especially useful during the winter months, when running or playing a specific sport becomes less accessible for most people. Enrolling in a gym membership can also provide an added layer of accountability for people looking to get back into peak physical health, as having to pay a monthly fee can help boost a person to leave their home and head to the gym. Gym's tend to offer many options for people that can make the prospect of working out a much more realistic and enjoyable option. If your gym has a sauna or hot tub, it can also become a big motivating factor to get you to exert your body physically. One major thing to keep is mind is to join a gym that you will actually end up going to. You don't want enroll in a gym that doesn't have any facilities nearby your house of place of work, as it will make it extremely unlikely that you will actually end up going to it. Select a gym that is convenient and will make it probably that you'll get off your butt and get moving. Even if the gym costs a little more per month, the savings on time and hassle getting to the facility will likely be worth the extra money spent. Get an Accountability Buddy Many people struggle with staying consistent with their workout and dieting plans, and it can be especially easy to give in to temptation when attempting to make a change on your own. Humans are creatures of habit and can fall back into old patterns fairly easily. We may have the best intentions to change ourselves for the better, but ingrained habits often are the hardest to end up kicking. One beneficial strategy to consider implementing is to seek out an accountability buddy. This is a person who can help to motivate you to stick with whatever your particular health goals may be. If you are trying to workout more during the winter months, having someone else to go to the gym with can be a major boost to your willpower. If you make plans to do something with someone, chances are you are more likely to follow through than if you are going it alone. The same is true of dieting, as temptation can rear its ugly head and derail your plans faster than you can finish that slice of pizza. Having a friend keep you accountable can be the needed detail you require to stick with your plan of action. Consider Taking a Month Off of Drinking January is often the best month for individuals seeking to take a break from drinking, as it follows the holidays and is a great way to start the new year off right. But even if you didn't make the decision to abstain from alcohol during the first month of the year, selecting February or March for your month free from drinking can still be a great option to consider. Drinking alcohol can lead to feelings of depression, which may be exacerbated during the winter months due to the weather and lack of sunlight. Even if you don't have a serious problem with drinking and consider yourself to be a casual drinker, taking a month off of alcohol can provide untold amounts of health benefits and make you feel better both physically and mentally. This time can be a great opportunity to consider going on a whole food diet, as you will not be consuming any time of processed alcohol during this period. The Whole 30 diet has risen in popularity, as people are realizing the benefits of eating a clean diet made up of whole, unprocessed foods. Taking a break from the booze can provide additional benefits outside of the immediate ones a person will experience as a result of not drinking for the month. Abstaining from alcohol will provide a person with more energy, as they will not have to worry about waking up with a hangover or feeling drained. It can also allow a person to get creative with their social life, as going out for drinks will no longer be a fallback option. If you are looking to improve your physical health situation and are in need of physical therapy due to an accident or other physical ailments, contact Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness today and we will be happy to assist you with your first steps towards recovery. We have an extensive team of qualified physical therapists and specialists who care deeply about their clients and go above and beyond the call of duty to provide the highest quality treatment in the industry. If you are looking for a therapist who will carefully assess your individual needs and formulate a treatment plan that is specifically tailored to your needs, Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness is your preferred choice for the physical recovery process.   Wed, 20 Feb 2019 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/18761/How-to-Stay-Healthy-During-the-Winter-Months-From-Your-Denver-Physical-Therapist- http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/18711/Hand-Therapy-Can-Eliminate-Nagging-Pain-and-Make-You-More-Productive blog At Peak Physical Therapy & Wellness, we're no strangers to the numerous physical pains that we all encounter in our everyday lives. Our team of certified physical therapists, chiropractors, and athletic trains aid patients from across the Denver area with an entire gamut of physical ailments —achy knees from Littleton, tingly shoulders from Douglas, and even stinging backs from Adams. Our diverse team of specialists know exactly how to treat your injury, and can even offer you methods on how to avoid pain in the future. That's why professional athletes, amatuer athletes, weekend warriors and competitive hobbyists have relied on our care for decades to keep them in peak performance. One area of we treatment we offer is something you might not think of, but the part of your body that you probably use most everyday. That is: hand therapy treatment. You don't have to be a violinist from Arvada, a carpenter from Thornton or a painter from Bennett to suffer from hand pain.  In this era of rampant portable electronics, typing, and touchscreens, our hands are enduring a brunt of activity that other generations would have deemed unimaginable. If you use your hands for repetitive tasks, such as typing, and you regularly experience pain or cramping, consider visiting a massage therapist here at Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness for a hand massage.  While the majority of our hand therapy patients come to us after suffering an injury to their hands —from fractures, dislocations and sprains to cuts, infections or sports-related injuries. Others who seek hand therapy treatment here at Peak Physical Therapy & Wellness include those who suffer from arthritis, carpal tunnel syndrome, osteoarthritis, or congenital defects. No matter what your medical history or profession, chances are your hands take a beating just from the day-to-day tasks they're responsible for every day. How can occasional hand therapy keep your mitts in peak form? The ways are innumerable. How Can a Hand Therapist Help Me? The team of qualified hand therapy experts here at Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness provide non-operative interventions, preventative care and post-surgical rehabilitation for a wide variety symptoms. The goal of our professional hand care experts is always to return your hands to their pre-surgery condition and, if possible, give you greater range of motion and more comfort than you had before your injury.   Whether you're a Denver-area patient who is recovering from a minor hand injury or suffering from a  chronic hand-related condition like as arthritis. Our hand therapists utilize a variety of hand massage techniques to soothe aching muscles and release tension in your hands and fingers. Their numerous techniques and tools range from activity and exercise programs, fitting you for custom orthotic fabrications, and can helping you with pain management and swelling around wounds and scars. Our expert hand therapists can also consult you how about to more safely and efficiently utilize your hands at work —regardless of your profession — in order to stave off unnecessary wear and prevent future injury while establishing healthy work habits that will protect your hands long term.  Even if you have not suffered an injury or are not dealing with constant pain in your hands, an occasional hand therapy session can offer you a tremendous array of benefits. The human hand contains a wide variety of acupressure and reflexology points which are associate with various organs and tissues located throughout the body. Hand massage is a quick, relaxing way to experience immediate health benefits, including improved finger and wrist range of motion, enhanced circulation and reduction of your trigger points in your hand muscles. Denver's Hand Experts Each of the hand therapists here at Peak Physical Therapy & Wellness have earned advanced certification as a certified hand therapist (CHT). The CHT credential is earned after a therapist practices for a minimum of five years, accumulating at least 4,000 hours of treatment for hand and upper extremity disorders. Certified hand therapists must also pass a rigorous certification exam to demonstrate their competency in treating hand and upper extremity conditions. Our team of Denver-based hand therapists work closely with regional orthopaedic and general surgeons who also specialize in the hand in order to stay abreast of modern treatment trends and preventative techniques.  The hand team here at Peak Physical Therapy also specializes in splinting. Splinting can be used to protect or immobilize a joint, stretch or mobilize a stiff joint with both static and dynamic progressive techniques, or to facilitate function. Top Notch Physical Therapy in Denver Whether you're an active professional, an amatuer athlete, or a practicing competitive athlete, we welcome you to explore the wide variety of treatments available to you here at Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness. With nine care and treatment centers across the Denver metropolitan area and over two decades of experience, Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness has established itself as the region's premier source for musculoskeletal care.   Wed, 13 Feb 2019 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/18711/Hand-Therapy-Can-Eliminate-Nagging-Pain-and-Make-You-More-Productive http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/18627/Ways-to-Improve-Your-Overall-Physical-Health-From-Your-Denver-Physical-Therapist blog You're probably entering the 2019 calendar year with high hopes of how you can transform your physical health in the next 12 months. Indeed, January is often a time when people begin to consider their current behaviors and issues and assess what is needed in order to turn the situation around. A person's physical health is determined by a number of different factors which contribute to the overall picture of wellness. Thankfully, there are a number of choices and decisions a person can make that will improve their overall health condition. Here are a few from your Denver physical therapist. Eat More Whole Foods, Healthier Snacks A big trend in recent years has been the prevalence of individuals deciding to go on a Whole-30 diet for the month of January. This entails eating a diet free from processed foods and sugars, and is often reminiscent of the paleo diet. There's a reason why people are deciding the eat more whole vegetables and healthy meat choices: the evidence is mounting that processed foods are a major contributor to poor health. The maxim of 'you are what you eat' is beginning to ring true more often, as you can directly see a correlation between poor health outcomes and the decisions a person makes at the dinner table.  Eating a diet which is rooted in real ingredients is a huge way a person can improve their overall health situation in the short term. In addition to dealing with less complications from having too much sugar or carbs, eating whole foods will provide a sustainable level of energy free from the constant crashes caused by poor snacking habits. Giving up chips in favor of a carrot can be a difficult task for many people hooked on the crunch, but it can provide immense health benefits in the long-term. Individuals who eat more whole foods and less processed snacks tend to deal with less issues related to cancer, heart disease, diabetes, and hypertension. Beyond the long-term health benefits associated with eating healthier foods, a person will also experience short-term benefits of feeling better and having more energy. Making the decision to eat healthier can be compounded by following the next important habit change. Exercise Regularly It's no accident that your doctor, friend, family member, or just general health-advocate will relentlessly stress the importance of eating healthy and exercising often. Indeed, these health nuggets have become so commonplace, it can be easy to look past them in the fight to retain and improve one's health situation. However, things are often cliche for a reason and are a primary part of taking the path to overall wellness.  Exercising regularly can have profound health benefits beyond simply being in better shape. Consistently exerting oneself physically can reduce a person's risk for a heart attack, as your health will be in a much better state. It will also contribute to a person managing their weight, as it's one of the best strategies for burning calories and eventually burning away layers of fat. Exercise can also contribute to lowering a person's blood pressure, as well as lower the risk of other serious health conditions, including cancer, and diabetes. A person will also have stronger bones and muscles from consistent workouts, reducing the possibility of dealing with an injury as a result of a fall. Find Time to Reduce Stress, Healthily  Stress is one of the biggest sources of poor health, as stress can lead to a number of health complications, including high blood pressure, cancer, and heart disease to name a few conditions. Without a proper release valve for the stress we experience in our lives, it is easy to become overwhelmed by our life and experience compounding health concerns as a result. Headache, insomnia, chest pain, and upset stomachs are just a number of the symptoms that can follow a person dealing with stress. Unfortunately, many people decide to deal with stress in unhealthy ways which can actually make the problem worse. This includes abusing drugs and alcohol, binging on food or television, or acting out in ways which are damaging to the person's relationships and overall life situation. If you are experiencing regular outbursts of anger, out-of-ordinary amounts of substance abuse, or social withdrawal, it's probably time to consider a healthy solution to deal with your health concerns.  Instead of dealing with stress in a negative way, find positive outlets to channel and release your stress which won't also impact your life poorly. This includes exploring a mindfulness practice, whether that be through yoga, meditation, or simply receiving a deep-tissue massage from a trusted practitioner. It can also mean going out with friends, spending time with loved ones, or simply getting the proper amount of socialization with the people in our life.  Setting time aside to work on our hobbies, whether it be an art form or other form of recreation, is an important part of managing one's stress. Having an activity which can provide joy as well as relief from the difficult parts of our life is an important tool to use in terms of balancing our stress load. Finding productive ways to channel our stress can help us make meaning of this experience.  If you are looking to improve your physical health situation and are in need of physical therapy due to an accident or other physical ailments, contact Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness today and we will be happy to assist you with your first steps towards recovery. We have an extensive team of qualified physical therapists and specialists who care deeply about their clients and go above and beyond the call of duty to provide the highest quality treatment in the industry. If you are looking for a therapist who will carefully assess your individual needs and formulate a treatment plan that is specifically tailored to your needs, Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness is your preferred choice for the physical recovery process. Fri, 01 Feb 2019 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/18627/Ways-to-Improve-Your-Overall-Physical-Health-From-Your-Denver-Physical-Therapist http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/18580/What-Running-Analysis-Can-Teach-You-and-How-it-Will-Change-Your-Life blog Athletes from across Aurora, Denver and Englewood know to rely on Peak Physical Therapy when it comes to healing and rehabbing from accident or injury. But what you may not know is how athletes from across Colorado also utilize our friendly and knowledgeable team of medical experts to prevent injury as well. One of the most specialized services we offer to athletes of all sports and skill levels is gait analysis. Gait analysis isn't just a great way to see if you can minimize common aches and pains you experience from running, it's also a way to improve your future running performance and to make it as pain free as possible.  Your individualized running assessment —also known as gait assessment —will provide you all the information you need to to know to enhance your performance and prevent injury, through both adjustments to your gait and by providing the type of information you can utilize to invest in the proper equipment. In addition addressing prevalent musculoskeletal and biomechanical impairments that could be causing you pain, our team also provides patients with a a comprehensive video analysis of your running form which can be utilized to make any necessary adjustments.  The process starts when one of our team members records footage of your movement on a treadmill. This footage —about thirty seconds long —allows us to see what type of pronation, or natural side-to-side movement of the foot as you walk or run. It is also known as "eversion." There are three types on eversion, and our staff will help you to determine which category you fall under. Overpronation: Around 70% of humans overpronate, which means their plant leg rolls inward as they step into their gate. You may overpronate if you have low arches or flat feet.  Underpronation: Also referred to as supination, this occurs when the ankle strikes the ground at a steep angle. This pronation is usually common among athletes with high arches.  Neutral: Neural pronation occurs when the food lands flat in a controlled manner, distributing weight evenly from the front of the foot up the leg.  The Peak PT team will analyze your specific running gait in an effort to reduce pain, decrease your risk of future injury and even hope to improve your future performance. We can also recommended specific styles of running shoes In addition to offering you a range of therapeutic exercise tailored to your protonation, as well as manual therapy and soft tissue mobilization to help keep you running fresh.    Thu, 24 Jan 2019 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/18580/What-Running-Analysis-Can-Teach-You-and-How-it-Will-Change-Your-Life http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/17940/How-to-Reach-Your-Fitness-Goals-in-2019-From-Your-Parker-Physical-Therapist blog The new year is upon us and with it comes a slew of new fitness goals for individuals seeking to improve their overall health. The new year is one of the biggest times when people seek to improve their circumstances, whether it's financially, health-wise, or just general improvement. If you're one of the many individuals who has made a new year resolution, it's important to be aware of the ways in which you can make your resolution stick. Here are some of the ways to reach your fitness goals in 2019 from your Parker physical therapist. Make Your Resolution Realistic One of the biggest ways in which individuals fail to stick to their new year's resolution is due to the fact that they make resolutions which are completely unrealistic. Sure, it's good to shoot for the stars and end up reaching the moon, but if your goals are completely out of touch with your current situation and not attainable, you are simply setting yourself up for disappointment and failure. That's not a recipe for success, that's a recipe for disappointment. If you want a chance of reaching your goal, it's important to make your resolution manageable. Break Up Your Resolution If you're seeking to lose 30 pounds by the end of the year, this goal can appear to be a bit too daunting for the average individual, especially if you haven't worked out in a while. One way of overcoming this is to break up your resolution into more manageable chunks. For example, if you're seeking to lose 30 pounds in a year, it's a good idea to break it up into a 3-month segment, planning to lose seven or eight pounds by the end of March.  Incentivize Yourself Another helpful tool to be aware of in the battle to achieve your resolution is to reward yourself for reaching certain milestones associated with it. If you have a goal of working out 3 times a week and have managed to do so for a month straight, set a reward that you'll go out to the movies with friends or have another pleasurable activity which helps motivate you to stay on track towards your resolution. Incentivizing yourself can make a huge difference in staying on track.  If you are looking to improve your physical health situation and are in need of physical therapy due to an accident or other physical ailments, contact Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness today and we will be happy to assist you with your first steps towards recovery. We have an extensive team of qualified physical therapists and specialists who care deeply about their clients and go above and beyond the call of duty to provide the highest quality treatment in the industry. If you are looking for a therapist who will carefully assess your individual needs and formulate a treatment plan that is specifically tailored to your needs, Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness is your preferred choice for the physical recovery process.   Wed, 09 Jan 2019 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/17940/How-to-Reach-Your-Fitness-Goals-in-2019-From-Your-Parker-Physical-Therapist http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/17776/Parker-PT--Your-Gait-Dysfunction-Might-Be-Slowing-You-Down blog Nothing is more frustrating when you are training for a race—whether it's a 5k or a full marathon—than being sidelined by constant injuries. If you are a Parker runner who is constantly plagued with problems in your shins, calves, or hips, you might want to consider a running analysis.  Also referred to as a gait analysis, once the problem has been identified, you can be treated—and back on the road (or trail) feeling better than ever. Getting a professional gait analysis by an experienced clinician means a more efficient and accurate diagnosis. What this means for you is that you are running pain-free in a shorter amount of time. What Does It Mean to Have a Gait Dysfunction? When you have    a gait dysfunction, it means that the way you are walking or running is abnormal in some way. In some cases, they can be related to some kind of disorder of the inner ear, diseases of the muscle or nervous system, or musculoskeletal abnormalities. When these underlying disorders are treated, often the problem with gait is normalized. There are common classifications of gait dysfunction, as follows: Anatalgic. This is commonly referred to as a limp, meaning people are putting more weight on one leg than the other. This is usually because they are in some kind of pain. Cerebellar ataxia. This gait dysfunction is displayed by erratic foot placement, such as in someone who is intoxicated. Parkinsonian. These short, shuffled steps are often seen in those suffering from Parkinson's disease. Steppage. With this dysfunction people cannot lift their ankle so they frequently lift the leg higher at the knee and hip Vestibular ataxia. This is usually related to vertigo or inner-ear conditions and causes people to walk in an unsteady manner.  Waddling. People with this pattern of dysfunction often walk on their toes, with a side-to-side movement. These are some of the most commonly known dysfunctions. Yours might be different than what is listed here. You can find a more comprehensive list of gait abnormalities published by Stanford Medicine that offers a bit more insight. How Is a Gait Dysfunction Diagnosed? Although running shoe stores often offer a running analysis to determine the best type of running shoes, nothing compares to a gait analysis screening by a professional physical therapist. When you go in for an analysis, you will likely be asked a series of questions first, including: Are you experiencing any pain while walking or running? Did you recently have a fall? When did you start to notice you were not walking the way you always have? Is the problem with walking or running getting worse? The physical therapist will also talk to you about your medical history, including whether or not you are on any medications.  When you first meet with the physical therapist, be prepared to describe your pain and symptoms in as detailed a manner as possible. Before your first appointment, in fact, it might be a good idea to keep a journal that outlines what activities you are doing when you are experiencing pain—whether it's just while you are running or if the pain exists while you are walking and doing other things. Try to be as detailed as possible. The physical therapist will conduct certain assessments to help determine the cause of your gait problems, including: The physical therapist will have you walk back and forth so he or she can observe any abnormalities in your gait simply by watching you.  The physical therapist will check your balance to determine if you are at undue risk of a fall. The physical therapist will see how fast you walk. The physical therapist will test your strength and range of motion. The physical therapist will test your reflexes. The physical therapist will conduct sensation screenings. Based on these assessments, he or she will try to diagnose the reason for the gait problems. Can I Do Something to Prevent Gait Problems? Whether or not your issue is preventable depends on the reason for it. But often getting treatment early means further issues can be prevented  What Can a Physical Therapist Do to Improve Gait? Physical therapy is crucial in helping people improve their gait so they can walk and run again without pain. Each treatment plan is different, depending on the issues you are having the reasons behind them, but a treatment strategy might include any of the following items: Pre-gait training. These include activities and exercises that have nothing to do with, such as standing and lifting your leg. But they can give you insight into improving your gait.  Gait training. This includes retraining the way you walk based on the underlying condition for your gait problems. Balance and coordination training. These activities can help you get better balance, which will help stabilize the way you walk. Neuromuscular reeducation. Your inactive muscles might need to be activated to improve your walking pattern. Bracing or splinting. If a weakness in a ligament is part of your gait problem, a brace or splint might be able to help. Manual therapy. Depending on the reasons for your gait problems, we might also recommend manual therapy and soft tissue mobilization. Dry needling. Dry needling is crucial for pain control, muscle tension reduction, and improved biochemical motor functions. Don't be sidelined because of pain or discomfort. Talk to Peak Physical Therapy & Wellness about a Parker running analysis and treatment plan for runners of all ability levels. Our comprehensive running analysis has three goals: (1) tell you what you need to do to reduce your pain, (2) lower your risk of injuring yourself in the future, and (3) improving your running performance. At Peak Physical Therapy & Wellness, we will also talk to you about an appropriate training plan to help you achieve your running goals with a lot less pain. Contact us today to find out more about a running analysis. With offices throughout the Denver metro area, including south Denver, Highlands Ranch, Lowry, Parker, Aurora, and Englewood, you can be sure that one is conveniently located near you. We look forward to working with you and helping you live a healthy, pain-free lifestyle! Wed, 19 Dec 2018 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/17776/Parker-PT--Your-Gait-Dysfunction-Might-Be-Slowing-You-Down http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/17777/Proper-Lifting-and-Safety-Tips-for-Your-Move-from-Your-Denver-Physical-Therapy-Team- blog While the end result is exciting, most Americans dread the moving process. The move itself can be so taxing it is easy to forget how to ensure a safe move. Often times some of the smallest of mistakes can lead to injuries that can last a lifetime. Don't let that happen! As you gear up for your next home, review these tips from your local Denver physical therapy team.  Gather Essential Tools  When it comes to moving, boxes are usually the priority for items to obtain in the weeks leading up the big day. However, there is much more than boxes that are needed. Many movers only think about a few things, but it helps to be fully prepared as you transition into the moving process. Some of these essentials include:  Dollies and other hand trucks:  Items with wheels enable you to easily move larger items, reducing the physical strain that comes with lifting and carrying boxes, furniture and more. Packing materials and tape: Securing your valuables is not just essential for their safety, but yours too. Make sure to wrap items with newspaper, bubble wrap, or other packing material, then secure your boxes with packing tape. This will help your boxes from opening at the bottom, causing the items to fall and break—and avoiding a potential injury on your part in the process.  Sliders: Did you know you can buy pads that can be placed on the bottom of your furniture? This will help you easily move furniture and other heavy items across the floor. This reduces physical stress on your body and protects your floors—a win-win! You can also buy covers to go on your furniture to protect from scuffing and provide a barrier between you and sharp edges.  Scissors and knife: As you pack and unpack, you will be going through several things. Have scissors and a knife handy to cut open boxes or other items.   Moving gloves: You can purchase gloves to wear while moving to help keep your hands safe from cuts, scrapes, and more.  Packing 101 As you begin the process to move, it is the perfect time to get rid of unwanted or unused items. This can be done in a variety of ways such as having a yard sale, donating to local charities, or simply throwing certain items away.  As you start to pack, work through items that you rarely use first. Choose a category system that works best for you, whether it is packing room by room, or by other methods. If space allows, contain all of your boxes to one place.  When labeling your boxes, use a large permanent marker so you can clearly label what is in the box. It helps to label on more than one side, so you can easily identify once you are unpacking.   As you pack the boxes, be smart. Do not overload large boxes with several heavy items. Find a good balance that is easy to carry and manage. For any clothing hanging in a closet, you can keep them on their hangers, then wrap them in a blanket or with garbage bags-just make sure you do not mistake them for actual trash! You may be able to leave certain items in dressers or cabinets as long as you can safely secure them.  Create Your Plan To ensure a successful move, you must have a plan. One of the initial questions you should ask yourself is, "Will I handle this move on my own, or would I like to enlist the help of a mover?" If you can afford it, movers can assist with every step in the moving process, taking some of the physical burdens off you.  Once you have determined how the move will be handled, create a schedule and set deadlines. For instance, have all non-essential items packed by a certain date, or have all necessary packing items by a specific time. It also helps to have a schedule for moving day, too. While you cannot expect everything to go fully as planned, you can set times to start loading or have the movers arrive and reasonable goals for unpacking. Be sure to take advantage of Real Simple's moving checklist, which will give you a complete two-month guide on everything you need to do leading up to the big day.   Proper Lifting Techniques Moving is a very labor-intensive process. It is exercise, after all! Many people who move often injure themselves due to improper lifting techniques. Your first rule of thumb to remember is to lift using your legs and not putting all of the weight on your back. When picking up boxes, bend and crouch down and hold the bottom and sides of a box. Moving gloves can help you have a better handle on the items. As you bend down, keep your feet at shoulder width.  Once secure, lift using your legs and not your lower back. Keep the box or items close to your body, reducing strain on your arms. A great way to remember how to do this is to keep your elbows as close to your sides as possible. If you feel an item is too much to carry on your own, ask for help!  Safety Tips One can become injured in a multitude of ways during a move—not sure lifting improperly. A common mistake that happens is tripping or stepping on items out in the open. Before moving day, ensure hallways and open walk spaces are clear. This will help protect you and anyone helping you move stay safe. This also includes pets or children. They may be confused or bored, so make arrangements to have them outside the home or out of harm's way. It is also important to properly dress for a move! Wear clothing that is comfortable and will not get caught on edges or items. Be sure to wear shoes that will support your feet all day.  Are you wondering how you can make sure you are prepared to handle the physical activity of your moving day? Peak Physical Therapy & Wellness will help. We will show you proper lifting techniques and more or can help if you do sustain an injury after your move. Contact Peak PT & Wellness today to get started.  Wed, 19 Dec 2018 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/17777/Proper-Lifting-and-Safety-Tips-for-Your-Move-from-Your-Denver-Physical-Therapy-Team- http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/17775/Accidents-that-Happen-During-the-Holidays-From-Your-Denver-Physical-Therapist blog The holiday season is upon us and with it comes plenty of time spent with friends and family, travel, lots of food and drink binging, and endless amounts of holiday music you may prefer not to hear. But beyond the cheery moments present around this time of year, there are also some unfortunate instances which can rear their ugly head if you aren't careful. These occurrences range from minor to serious, and everyone should be mindful of them during this time of year as a way to avoid this from occurring. Here are some of the common accidents and injuries that occur during the holidays from your Denver physical therapist. Alcohol Related Accidents The holidays brings many time spent with family and friends, which also can include a significant amount of alcohol consumption as well. While many people engage in drinking responsibly, there are still a handful of individuals who imbibe in a few too many beverages and then get behind the wheel of an automobile. The time between Christmas and New Years tends to see a higher percentage of drunk drivers on the road, which is why many police departments mobilize their units to increase drunk driving policing tactics.  Slip and Falls During the holidays, one of the most common injuries individuals can experience is to slip and fall on a slippery surface, as the winter is a time filled with blustery, icey, and snowy conditions. Whether you're walking into your in-laws home for a Christmas gathering or perhaps you're climbing up a ladder to deck out your home with all of the festive lighting displays common with the season, it's critical to be as careful as a possible to avoid turning this holiday season into an unfortunate nightmare. Fires Another common incident to be aware of during this time of years is the prevalence of fires which can occur during the holidays. This time of year is marked with a large amount of cooking, as families often spend large amounts of time cooking their holiday feast, often for a larger amount of people than normal. This increase in the amount of cooking also boosts the amount of fires which can occur, stressing the importance for proper safety in the kitchen. If you are looking to improve your physical health situation and are in need of physical therapy due to an accident or other physical ailments, contact Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness today and we will be happy to assist you with your first steps towards recovery. We have an extensive team of qualified physical therapists and specialists who care deeply about their clients and go above and beyond the call of duty to provide the highest quality treatment in the industry. If you are looking for a therapist who will carefully assess your individual needs and formulate a treatment plan that is specifically tailored to your needs, Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness is your preferred choice for the physical recovery process.   Wed, 12 Dec 2018 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/17775/Accidents-that-Happen-During-the-Holidays-From-Your-Denver-Physical-Therapist http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/17540/Stretches-for-a-Successful-Ski-Season-from-Your-Denver-Physical-Therapist blog Ski season in Colorado is well underway, as the snow has started to cover the mountains to the delight of skiiers and winter sports junkies everywhere. Indeed, the skiing and snowboard season is seen by many as the highlight of the year, as the thrill of venturing down a mountain at break-neck speeds simply cannot be topped by any other outdoor activity. But with this great activity comes the risk of severe injury for those who aren't careful. Besides dealing with a collision or some form of broken bone, muscle strains can significantly impact a person's enjoyment of the sport. That's why it's critical to implement stretching as a part of your skiing and snowboarding routine. Here are a few of the ones to stick to from your Denver physical therapist. Hamstring Stretches You can perform these vital stretches when you're in your boots but before you actually hit the slopes. Stand straight and reach down to touch the outside of your boots, trying to keep both of your legs as straight as you can. This stretch targets the hamstrings, but also aids the body to adjust for the additional height you receive when in your boots. The added height you receive when in your boots and skis can cause your body to lean forward slightly, which can lead to a hamstring strain.  Side Bends Side bends help to warm up the obliques and the upper back muscles, parts of your body that will likely be working harder than usual when engaged in this activity. In order to prep your body for the additional exertion it will experience, side bends are a great way to prep yourself. To perform this stretch, reach down the side of your leg with one arm while extending the opposite elbow towards the sky.  Hip Rotations Keeping your hips limber and loose will make the act of skiing a much more enjoyable experience, as you will be less stiff and more able to make the movements you are required to. Take a small squat position with your knees bent, keeping both feet on the ground, and shift your weight to your left foot as you drive your hip to the left. Rotate from side to side as a way to keep your hips loose and your lower back engaged. If you are looking to improve your physical health situation and are in need of physical therapy due to an accident or other physical ailments, contact Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness today and we will be happy to assist you with your first steps towards recovery. We have an extensive team of qualified physical therapists and specialists who care deeply about their clients and go above and beyond the call of duty to provide the highest quality treatment in the industry. If you are looking for a therapist who will carefully assess your individual needs and formulate a treatment plan that is specifically tailored to your needs, Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness is your preferred choice for the physical recovery process. Wed, 05 Dec 2018 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/17540/Stretches-for-a-Successful-Ski-Season-from-Your-Denver-Physical-Therapist http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/17539/The-Most-Common-Injuries-Coloradans-Experience-from-Your-Physical-Therapist-in-Parker blog Coloradans are one of the most active populations of any state in the nation. This is readily apparent to anyone who has spent time in the mountains on the weekend, as trails are often packed with crowds of people seeking to get physical exercise in the mountains. Hiking, skiing, mountain biking, and rock climbing are just a few of the most popular activities people engage in as a way to improve their physical health. But an active population can also bring with it a series of injuries. Here are some of the most common ways Coloradans injure themselves from your Parker physical therapist. Running Injuries A common way that Coloradans hurt themselves is in the form of running injuries. Running is a physically taxing activity which can result in serious complications if a person doesn't take the necessary precautions. Things such as stress fractures, tendonitis, shin pain, and sprained ankles are just a few of the ways in which a person can injure themselves while on a jog or sprint.  Coloradans are also able to take advantage of the ample outdoor trails, potentially increasing the chances of experiencing a serious injury as a result. Proper stretching and warm ups as well as sufficient shoes are always recommended as a way to reduce the chances of sustaining an injury. Never underestimate the power of a knowing your limits, as pushing it to far when running can result in chronic knee pain, potentially setting your running back significantly in the process.  Skiing and Snowboarding Injuries Hitting the slopes is one of the most favored and enjoyable activities for Coloradans seeking both physical activity and a rush, as traversing a mountain on skis or a snowboard is about as iconic as it gets for the centennial state. However, this activity includes a number of risks to a person's physical health, as a wrong turn or maneuver can result in serious injury or death. Head injuries as a result of running into a tree can result in serious head trauma, and knee injuries are always something to be cautious of when taking in the fresh powder. The mountains may be calling you on a perfect powder day, but never leave your house without a helmet and always stay within terrain that is within your skill level.  If you are looking to improve your physical health situation and are in need of physical therapy due to an accident or other physical ailments, contact Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness today and we will be happy to assist you with your first steps towards recovery. We have an extensive team of qualified physical therapists and specialists who care deeply about their clients and go above and beyond the call of duty to provide the highest quality treatment in the industry. If you are looking for a therapist who will carefully assess your individual needs and formulate a treatment plan that is specifically tailored to your needs, Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness is your preferred choice for the physical recovery process.   Wed, 28 Nov 2018 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/17539/The-Most-Common-Injuries-Coloradans-Experience-from-Your-Physical-Therapist-in-Parker http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/17501/Surprising-Benefits-to-Seeing-Your-Denver-Physical-Therapist blog Many people associate a physical therapist with a limited set of therapeutic benefits, primarily for rehabilitation services. While a qualified physical therapist can greatly improve your physical health, especially if you've recently experienced a setback due to an accident, there are many other unexpected benefits to seeing a physical therapist in Denver. Here are a few of the ways a visit to a physical therapist can provide you with helpful health benefits. Physical Therapists Can Diagnose Patients A physical therapist isn't just a helpful resource for individuals who have been diagnosed by their primary care physician with a specific condition. Physical therapists are also able to proactively diagnose a condition, and some states allow patients to receive direct access treatment, saving a trip to the doctor in the process. While most physical therapists are doctors, they are able to provide you guidance with regards to what may be ailing you. Physical Therapy Assists with Neurological Conditions Utilizing the services of a physical therapist is not just limited to someone who has suffered a broken leg or other debilitating injuries. PT can also help with individuals who are dealing with the effects of a neurological disorder. Conditions such as multiple sclerosis, strokes, and cerebral palsy can all be treated with right kind of physical therapy. Proper exercises and the right information can allow patients with these conditions to improve their movements. It may not be the first thing that comes to mind when treating these types of issues, but physical therapy can actually be an essential part of helping these types of patients receive adequate relief from their health challenges.  Physical Therapist Formulate and Implement Personalized Treatment Plans In physical therapy, there isn't necessarily a one-size-fits-all approach to treatment. What works well for someone is not necessarily the right course of action for an individual suffering with a similar ailment. A PT will want to consider all of the other health conditions you may be dealing with when formulating an effective treatment plan. Overlooking important aspects of your particular health situation in favor of using a generalized treatment plan will not prove nearly as effective in addressing the problem holistically. The best physical therapists implement a plan which is uniquely tailored to your specific condition.  If you are looking to improve your physical health situation and are in need of physical therapy due to an accident or other physical ailments, contact Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness today and we will be happy to assist you with your first steps towards recovery. We have an extensive team of qualified physical therapists and specialists who care deeply about their clients and go above and beyond the call of duty to provide the highest quality treatment in the industry. If you are looking for a therapist who will carefully assess your individual needs and formulate a treatment plan that is specifically tailored to your needs, Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness is your preferred choice for the physical recovery process. Wed, 21 Nov 2018 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/17501/Surprising-Benefits-to-Seeing-Your-Denver-Physical-Therapist http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/17243/TMJ-Treatment-Tips-for-Fall-Allergy-Flair-Ups blog Fall allergies can be frustrating enough. Itchy eyes, stuffy and/or running notes, sneezing... they are quite an uncomfortable nuisance. When you also suffer from TMJ disorder, the two paired together can make for an unpleasant fall. Don't worry, there are things you can do to help. Take advantage of these allergy and TMJ treatment tips for relief.  Allergies and TMJ Disorder The TMJ is located in and around the same place as allergies. Sinuses line around the nose, between one's eyes and along cheekbones. When working properly, sinuses stop bacteria from getting into the lungs. Allergies can cause those sinuses to swell or become infected. During the fall, many types of allergens in the air can confuse the body.  The immune system takes allergens like pollen or ragweed for invaders. To combat them, it causes all of the unwanted symptoms. All of this can make things even more painful for a person with TMJ disorder. Allergies can increase inflammation in problematic areas, worsening TMJ disorder symptoms. The key to relief is to combat allergies and take precautions to calm the TMJ.  Reducing Allergies If you suffer from fall allergies, use some of these techniques for relief:  Take an antihistamine  Reduce your time outside on days the pollen count is high Keep windows shut so outdoor allergens do not get inside Purchase a furnace filter that helps combat allergens in the air Wash your bedding regularly, using a hot sanitizing wash that will kill any allergens Use a dehumidifier to reduce moisture in the air that can harbor allergens Protect your eyes outside by wearing glasses instead of contacts or sunglasses Keep your house clean and do a routine dusting daily or almost every day Vacuum or sweep floors regularly If you spend the day outdoors, change immediately after you get home and preferably take a shower too (to rid yourself of allergens) Do not leave clothing or towels outside to dry Ask your doctor or allergist if you are an ideal candidate for allergy shots TMJ Disorder Comfort In addition to finding techniques that help you reduce or eliminate allergy symptoms, use these resources to reduce pain due to TMD:  Do not eat foods that are overly chewy that cause an added strain on your jaw (steak, gum, crunchy foods, etc.) Depending which works better for you, use hot or cold packs on your face to reduce inflammation and calm muscles Use a mouth guard when you sleep to help you from clenching or bruxism Ask your doctor about anti-inflammatories and muscle relaxers to calm tense muscles See a physical therapist to learn what temporomandibular joint (TMJ) exercises relieve pain As you seek ways to find relief for your TMJ pain while combatting fall allergies, Peak Physical Therapy & Wellness can help. Our staff is experienced in treating TMJ disorder, helping you to reduce swelling and pain. We strive to help you feel your best so you can perform best at work, home, and exercising. Contact Peak PT & Wellness Center closest to you today and schedule your appointment.  Wed, 07 Nov 2018 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/17243/TMJ-Treatment-Tips-for-Fall-Allergy-Flair-Ups http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/17164/Using-Parker-Physical-Therapy-to-Prevent-Injuries blog When many people think about Parker physical therapy, it's associated with recovering from an injury. However, physical therapy is crucial for preventing injuries too. This applies to everyday injuries doing normal activities, as well as sports. With millions of sports injuries and issues from the workplace, it is important to speak with a physical therapist to learn best practices.  Preventing Injuries with Physical Therapy Did you know you can avoid painful and costly injuries simply by seeing a physical therapist? Also, did you know that you do not have to be an athlete to learn ways to avoid injuries? From workplace mishaps to exercising, seeing a local physical therapist can help you avoid an injury in any environment. This does not mean you need a weekly visit as you may with an injury, but a yearly check-in similar to one with your primary care physician.  At this appointment, you can discuss with a physical therapist your day-to-day. Tell them about your favorite activities, how you function at work, exercises you do, sports you participate in, and anything else you do during the day. From there, the physical therapist can learn your existing form and routine. They will be able to spot any issues that can be detrimental longterm and develop a plan for you to correct those behaviors. In addition, your physical therapist can introduce you to exercises and stretches to reduce minor aches and pains that you may be treating with medications or topical creams. Your physical therapist can help you work through any old injuries and give you techniques and exercises to do to avoid re-injuring yourself again.  Training for an athletic event in the future, such a marathon? Include a physical therapist into the conversation. They will provide valuable tips for training to ensure your strength and success. When you begin to think proactively rather than reactively with your health, you can avoid costly visits to the doctor. Plus, you will physically feel better under the guidance of a physical therapist—helping you be more productive and happier.  General Common Reasons Physical Therapy is Used Physical therapy is incredibly beneficial in a multitude of ways, not just for injury recovery or avoidance. Therapy can help in the following ways:  Balance issues: Senior citizens or people who struggle with balance issues can benefit from physical therapy. Through a specialized plan of exercises, a physical therapist can identify some of the critical issues and develop strategies that prevent dangerous falls.  Arthritis: Those suffering from arthritis can see a physical therapist to learn exercises and techniques to reduce pain. These techniques can also help a person become stronger and have a better range of motion in areas they struggle with.  Avoid surgery: If you have an ailment that your doctor thinks may be best to have operated on, try physical therapy first. In many cases, physical therapy can help a person regain strength and eliminate the need for surgery. Or, if you must have a surgery, see a physical therapist in the weeks leading up to the operation. This can help speed up recovery time and reduce pain.  Headaches and migraines: Physical therapists can help individuals suffering from debilitating headaches and migraines. How? Often times, these issues are caused by tenseness and bad posture. A physical therapist can correct these issues.  Strains: When a person strains a part of the body, it can take a long time to recover if you do not take care of it properly. In addition, using the same repetitive movements can re-injure and area—something your go-to physical therapist can help you learn how to avoid.  Women's issues: From incontinence to pelvic floor issues, women can see a local physical therapist for relief. Various muscles can be worked and strengthened to reduce or eliminate pain and take the stress out of certain situations. New mothers can also benefit from visiting a physical therapist to regain strength.  Top Injuries to Seek Therapy In the event you sustain an injury, whether it be carpal tunnel syndrome from a desk job to tearing your ACL, a physical therapist will do wonders for your treatment. Upon sustaining an injury, one of the first things you should do is practice the "RICE" method, which stands for rest, ice, compression, and elevation. Immediately stop putting pressure and/or weight on the injured area and apply ice or something frozen to help reduce swelling. Using compression around the affected area will help to also reduce swelling as well as elevating it. In addition to "RICE," call your primary care physician or contact 911 if extremely serious and painful. After you have received care, contact a local physical therapist to aid in your recovery.  Some of the top injuries include:  Achilles tendonitis: When the Achilles tendon, which connects your heel bone to your calf muscles, is overused or injured, it can be incredibly painful. It is common in sports or routine daily activities that incorporate jumping or running. In addition to care under a professional, a physical therapist will help you regain strength and avoid repeating motions that could cause it to become damaged again.  General sprains and strains: Sprains and strains can occur almost anywhere. Ensuring you take proper care to heal and seeing a physical therapist will help you avoid re-spraining in the future.  Shoulder injuries: Sports or activities where a person is repetitively rotating the shoulder joints can lead to injuries. They can happen with repeated use that causes extra strain, leaving them to become irritated, inflamed, or other issues.  Plantar fasciitis: The band of tissue that connects the heel to the ball of the feet can become painful when it tears or become inflamed. It can become irritated when you introduce new exercises or routines putting added strain on your feet, gain weight or have a job that requires you to be on your feet for hours at a time. Physical therapists can help you develop strategies to reduce inflammation and make this condition manageable.  If you have never been to a physical therapist before, now is the perfect time to start. Peak Physical Therapy will help you when it comes to preparing for your Denver physical therapy appointment. With several locations, you can visit the Peak Physical Therapy location near you. We will help you identify any potential issues and help you correct them to avoid injury!  Wed, 31 Oct 2018 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/17164/Using-Parker-Physical-Therapy-to-Prevent-Injuries http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/17076/Recover-From-a-Fall-with-the-Help-of-a-Physical-Therapist-in-Parker blog A fall is one of the most common ways in which an elderly person can injure themselves. Whether it's due to increasing age, cognitive impairments, medication use, or any other factor, an injury from a fall can become a significant health issue to overcome for older individuals. However, a fall doesn't have to signal the end of a person's physical independence, as there are ways to reduce the chances of a fall occurring again. One key strategy which can be employed is to see a qualified physical therapist in Parker to help with fall prevention. Fall Prevention and Risk Reduction Physical therapy is not only used to improve and speed up a person's rehabilitation process, it can also be used as a way to strengthen an individual's physical health, reducing the chances of a fall creating detrimental health outcomes. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, falls are the leading cause of fatal injuries as well as nonfatal injuries for the aging population. For this reason, it's especially important to do everything you can to reduce the chances of a fall occurring as you age. Utilizing the services of a trained physical therapist is one of the smartest and most effective way a person can decrease their chances of becoming a fall victim. Physical therapy will help to strengthen someone's walking abilities as well as their balance and coordination levels. This is done through a combination of strength-training exercises as well as activities that improve balance, such as dance steps or Tai Chi. It's important to keep in mind that every person's path to recovery will not be the same, and that multiple factors will need to be assessed in order to determine what the right course of action is. In addition to physical limitations, medication use and other impairments need to be taken into account in order to come up with an effective treatment plan that will holistically address all relevant issues. Another strategy a person can employ in addition to seeking physical therapy treatment is to make the home environment safer by removing potential fall risks. Modifying the environment to improve safety, combined with regular physical therapy sessions, is a great way to reduce the chances of falling in the future. If you are looking to improve your physical health situation and are in need of physical therapy due to an accident or other physical ailments, contact Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness today and we will be happy to assist you with your first steps towards recovery. We have an extensive team of qualified physical therapists and specialists who care deeply about their clients and go above and beyond the call of duty to provide the highest quality treatment in the industry. If you are looking for a therapist who will carefully assess your individual needs and formulate a treatment plan that is specifically tailored to your needs, Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness is your preferred choice for the physical recovery process.   Wed, 24 Oct 2018 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/17076/Recover-From-a-Fall-with-the-Help-of-a-Physical-Therapist-in-Parker http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/16712/Alternative-Ways-to-Treat-Headaches-Including-Dry-Needling blog Headaches can be debilitating. Nearly all Americans have experienced headaches, sometimes on a regular basis, making everyday tasks and activities a struggle. Even worse, a bad headache can lead you to cancel plans and spend time in a dark room medicating yourself. If you are looking for alternative ways to handle your headaches, there are options to treat or aid with your current treatment plan. From oils to dry needling in Denver, consider one of these options for relief.  Essential Oils In the last few years, there has been a rise in popularity with essential oils. These oils are made up of liquid of various plant that some people find helpful for many of life's issues, including headaches. Oils are a natural treatment, which many like when keeping away from traditional medications. Each type of oil can relax an area, helping to calm down tense problematic areas.  Oils can be bought almost anywhere, from your local drug store, online, or at the grocery. Before buying, read the tips for buying essential oils so you know the oils you are purchasing are quality. Remember—price and quality do not always correlate, and you do not have to buy the most expensive oil for results.  If you have pets, use caution with diffusers as some of them can cause illness in your pets. Once you are ready to shop for oils, you can find them at affordable prices, so be sure to shop around to get the best price. Some of the best oils to use for headaches are:  Peppermint: The menthol in peppermint is one of the leading reasons it is helpful for those suffering from a headache. Menthol is known for a calming effect, which can ease tension in the head while experiencing a headache. When applying peppermint oil, it can also help promote healthy blood flow, which can reduce the symptoms of headaches.  Lavender: Lavender itself has been used for relaxation in a variety of ways, so it is no surprise that it is a popular oil used for headaches. Whether used topically or used through a diffuser, it is a fast-acting relief method that can actually calm muscle and reduce symptoms within 15 minutes. Lavender is especially helpful for severe headaches or migraines.  Eucalyptus: For those with headaches due to sinus problems, Eucalyptus is a go-to. It is known as an anti-inflammatory, helping to calm muscles and increase blood flow. It also has traits that make it a decongestant, making it a great option for those needing to clear the sinuses for relief.  Diet Changes Did you know the food and beverage you consume could be the leading cause for your headaches? Everyone is made differently, which means your body can react differently to certain things that are consumed. This is why it is important to monitor what you eat to figure out what foods could be triggering your headaches. Some of the most popular foods or ingredients that cause headaches include aged cheese, alcohol, artificial sweeteners, bread, caffeine (which for some, can actually help headaches), chocolate, MSG, nitrates, nuts, oranges, pickled goods, pizza, potato chips, sulfites, and much more.  The best way to approach food is to figure out which foods trigger your headaches. Do this by purchasing a food journal. Begin taking note of what you eat each day and when you get headaches. You must do this for a long duration of time, so you can compare foods against each other once you are at a place to narrow things down. As you determine possible triggers, eliminate them from your diet. Continue to take detailed notes to help you as you narrow these downs.  On the flipside, certain foods and ingredients have been known to help reduce symptoms of a headache. Some of these foods include:  Almonds Avocado Bananas Brown rice or quinoa Caffeine Cherries Eggs Fish (salmon, tuna, etc.) Lettuce and spinach Melons (water, cantaloupe, etc.) Mushrooms Regular or sweet potatoes Yogurt Also, dehydration is a leading cause of headaches. The recommended minimum amount of water to consume in a day is 64 ounces. However, depending on your activity levels, you may need to replace water more quickly. Start with at least 64 ounces and increase it depending on how active you are, your type of work, etc. Dry Needling At your local physical therapy office, dry needling can be performed to help with your headaches. Often mistaken for acupuncture, dry needling is a technique that uses thin, filament needles that are strategically placed into the soft tissue. The areas are known as trigger points, which are essentially knots. Dry needling is popular to treat a variety of aches and pains and can be especially helpful for treating headaches.  A physical therapist will be able to determine where these trigger points are that could be the cause of your headaches. These areas could be in your neck, back, temples, or other areas.  Don't worry, dry needling isn't painful. It is not like receiving several shots. Most can barely feel the needle going in and a common reaction is a small twitch or spasm in the area. After the twitch, which stimulates the muscle, it then relaxes. Some may experience a sensation of a cramp and some soreness, but it is short-term with great results. At most, you could feel sore for a day, which you can calm with hot or cold treatment and stretches. In order to see some long-term relief, you will schedule a series of visits for the treatment—usually six to eight. Once the needles are inserted, it helps to break up the knots in the area, hence causing relief.  Using Denver physical therapy to help relieve chronic headaches is a great way to live a pain-free life. The team at Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness are experienced in dry needling trigger point therapy. It is a great way many of our patients choose to find relief—not only for headaches, but for bursitis, sciatica, neck or back pain, plantar fasciitis, tendonitis, and more. We have locations throughout the Denver area—contact Peak PT & Wellness to schedule a consultation at an office near you.  Wed, 17 Oct 2018 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/16712/Alternative-Ways-to-Treat-Headaches-Including-Dry-Needling http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/16710/Ways-to-Use-Physical-Therapy-for-Women-s-Health blog Physical therapy for Denver women's health is a great way to prevent issues and care for existing problems that heavily impact day-to-day. In fact, many women do not realize all the ways visiting a physical therapist can reduce or eliminate health issues. Review all the different ways to take advantage of local physical therapy.  Prenatal and Postpartum Physical therapy is great for soon-to-be moms and moms that have just given birth. Through a specific plan and exercises that help with lower back pain common in pregnant women. A physical therapist will also help a woman maintain proper posture during changes in the body. After a baby is born, physical therapy is ideal for any injuries or complications that have occurred.  Strengthening Adnominal Muscles Older women, especially those who have given birth, may experience problems with weak abdominal muscles. One of the most common conditions in women is diastasis recti, a separation of abdominal muscles in women due to pregnancy. Women with this condition may experience lower back pain and other issues. A physical therapist can help to strengthen those muscles.  Working through Incontinence and Bladder Issues When the pelvic floor muscles are weak, a woman may experience bladder issues or incontinence. Control can be regained when the muscles are strengthened, which can be accomplished by various pelvic floor strengthening exercises. A physical therapist can also help with bladder issues, creating a stress-free life.  Easing Lower Back Pain What causes low back pain? It occurs due to a variety of causes. Whether a woman has given birth or not, lower back pain can become an issue. A physical therapist will assess issues that have resulted in pain. From there, stretches and exercises will be used to strengthen muscles. A physical therapist will also help you learn proper form to help you prevent further injuries.  Pelvic Inflammatory Disease Women with pelvic inflammatory disease may experience lower abdominal pain, issues with urination, abnormal bleeding, and other issues. It is a common occurrence with those that get a sexually transmitted disease when bacteria enter the body. It is important to work with your primary care physician as well as a physical therapy when working through this condition.  Treating Endometrioses Nearly one in every 10 women suffer from endometriosis, a condition where tissue that lines the uterus expands to other parts of the body. It can grow on a variety of organs in the pelvic region causing painful menstrual cycles, fatigue, heavier periods, nausea, pain during sex, and difficulty conceiving. A physical therapist will help a woman suffering from endometriosis strengthen the pelvic area, leading to relief in a variety of ways. It is important for women to understand their endometriosis and using a Denver women's health expert to treat.  There is no reason to live with pain, visit the office of Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness to treat your issues. Our team of talented physical therapists will help you live a happier, pain-free life. Contact Peak PT & Wellness today to find a location near you.     Wed, 10 Oct 2018 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/16710/Ways-to-Use-Physical-Therapy-for-Women-s-Health http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/16709/Injured-in-an-Accident--Here-s-how-Physical-Therapy-Can-Help-You-Recover blog An accident can be a life-altering and traumatic experience that can bring about an undue amount of stress upon a person's life. The physical and emotional pain that can come about as a result of an injury sustained through a sports' accident, a car crash, or another form of injury can be overwhelming and intense. The recovery process can be an intimidating prospect for many individuals who are likely reeling from the event itself. Depending on the severity of your accident, this event can significantly impact your day-to-day life for an extended period of time. It's important to be aware of how physical therapy can play a vital role in your recovery process from your Denver physical therapist.  Types of Injuries that Physical Therapists Typically Work With Physical therapists are trained in the art of rehabilitation, specifically when it comes to the physical ailments of the body. Injuries sustained during accidents can be a very serious set of problems to work through, but these are issues that a qualified and experienced physical therapist is well equipped to handle. The variety of accident injuries that a physical therapist will deal with are diverse.  Physical therapists deal with injuries sustained during a sporting activity, such as a competitive team sports, running, biking, or skiing. High intensity activities can make an individual vulnerable to experiencing a serious injury, and this is something which physical therapists tend to have a large amount of experience working through. Car accidents are another incredibly common injury type that a PT will be able to treat. If you've been in an motor vehicle collision and have sustained significant physical trauma from the event, you will almost certainly be referred to a physical therapist to assist you with your healing process.  In addition to traumatic sports injuries and car accidents, physical therapists can also help a person recover from injuries sustained at work, such as falling or suffering some sort of strain on a particular part of the body. Back, neck, arm, and shoulder pain are just a few of the common types of injuries that physical therapists are able to assist in the rehabilitation process.  How Physical Therapy Can Assist the Recovery Process If you've never been to a physical therapist, you may be wondering what physical therapy will actually look like. Physical therapy is the rehabilitation process which aims at returning a person to their optimum level of physical health. This is done through a variety of targeted and specialized exercises and treatments which will strengthen and support whatever part of the body requires rehabilitation.  When you meet with a therapist, they will work directly with you to set up the best possible treatment plan for your specific needs. Your PT will set a series of goals which treatment will aim to help you reach. These can be things such as improving your level of movement and physical functionality, as an accident will likely set you back in multiple facets. A PT will also assist you in ensuring that you do not re-injure yourself and will prioritize strengthening whatever part of the body requires additional help.  In terms of the actual treatment portion of your rehab, you will work with your therapist practicing certain stretches and exercises with the goal of gradually working towards increasing the intensity. Starting out with an intense physical exercise routine will make an individual much more vulnerable to further injury, something which would be the least ideal outcome for a recovery process. A well-qualified physical therapist will assess the severity of your particular injury, as well as other factors which need to be taken into account in the overall rehabilitation picture.  Why Physical Therapy is Preferable to the Alternatives The prospect of recovering from a serious injury can, admittedly, be incredibly daunting. Having to learn how to use parts of your body that you've taken for granted is obviously not a fun or enjoyable activity. This process is intended to improve mobility as well as reduce the amount of pain an individual is experiencing. While physical therapy will require consistent and repetitive work, it is much more preferable than the alternative, that being surgery.  There are many instances where engaging in the required physical therapy routine will help a person avoid having to undergo surgery. This is much more preferable for the fact that recovery from surgery can last much longer, as well as the fact that surgery is much more invasive and can increase the odds of serious complications occurring. If surgery can be avoided through the use of physical therapy, it's a no-brainer to contact your local Denver physical therapist. In our age of instant gratification and a desire to have immediate results from whatever we are engaged in, another aspect of physical therapy to be aware of is the fact that it can significantly improve you recovery time. If you're stuck on the sidelines or are experiencing a serious amount of pain due to an injury, the best route is to be as proactive as possible and seek out the services of a physical therapist who can speed up your recovery time. Injuries sustained from accidents are obviously unfortunate, but there's no point experiencing a longer recovery time than is necessary.  If you are looking to improve your physical health situation and are in need of physical therapy due to an accident or other physical ailments, contact Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness today and we will be happy to assist you with your first steps towards recovery. We have an extensive team of qualified physical therapists and specialists who care deeply about their clients and go above and beyond the call of duty to provide the highest quality treatment in the industry. If you are looking for a therapist who will carefully assess your individual needs and formulate a treatment plan that is specifically tailored to your needs, Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness is your preferred choice for the physical recovery process.   Wed, 03 Oct 2018 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/16709/Injured-in-an-Accident--Here-s-how-Physical-Therapy-Can-Help-You-Recover http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/16707/Helpful-Stretches-to-Combat-Stiff-Legs-from-Your-Friendly-Physical-Therapist blog More and more, people are sitting down for long periods of time, leading to an increase in the prevalence of stiff legs. This unfortunate condition can often be the result of inactivity, which has become more common in a world that is primarily focused on digital activities. Our work has a greater percentage of stationary actions and, in general, we could all use a bit more physical exercise and motion as a way to improve our health. One useful and productive action to take is to continually stretch our legs as a way to prevent overly stiff legs. Here are a few helpful leg stretches from your Parker Physical therapist. Calf Stretch Your calf muscle is located at the lower back part of your leg, and plays a role in determining how far forward or backwards your foot is able to bend. One way to keep your calf from cramping and restricting your mobility is to perform regular calf stretches. A very common calf stretch involves keeping both feet flat on the floor with one foot in front of the other. Bend the forward leg with your hands on the wall while keeping your back knee straight. Lean forward on to your front knee in order to stretch your back leg and hold the stretch for at least 30 seconds.  Perform this stretch on both legs for a full, balanced stretch. Calf muscles are a critical component for any physical activity which involves your legs, as they provide your legs with more power and allow your legs to move faster with stronger muscles. Weak calf muscles leave an individual prone to injury, such as achilles tendonitis, shin splints, and even plantar fasciitis, which can certainly incapacitate you from activities such as running. A pulled calf muscle is an incredibly common injury which can show up in the form of mild swelling, bruising, or even an inability to stand on the ball of your feet. Utilize proper calf stretching as a way to reduce the possibility of experiencing such an issue.  Simple Hamstring Stretch The hamstrings are located in the back of your thigh and is used for bending or flexing your knee. Tight hamstrings are incredibly common occurrence and can be prevented by performing consistent stretch exercises. A person is also able to improve and increase their overall mobility with regular maintenance. If you have stiff hamstrings or are dealing with lower back pain or sciatica, consider performing a simple hamstring stretch as a way to reduce these feelings. In order to perform a simple hamstring stretch, sit on the floor with both legs straight. Extend your arms forward by reaching in front of you, bending your body at the waist as far as you can while continuing to keep your legs straight. Once you cannot move forward any further, hold the stretch for anywhere from 15-30 seconds. Rest and then repeat the stretch at least another two times. You should not feel any excessive pain from this activity, and if you do you should halt the exercise immediately. Simple Quad Stretch Your quadricep muscles are made up of four different muscles: the vastus medialis, vastus intermedius, the vastus lateralis, and the rectus femoris. This particular muscle group has a primary function of helping with your knee motion and are involved in practically every movement of your leg, as they work alongside other leg muscles to promote healthy and effective movements. Our quadriceps often become tight, painful, and inflamed and can lead to knee pain if not properly addressed. A simple quad stretch can be an easy and effective way to help address issues with this specific muscle group, regardless of where you are. To perform a simple quad stretch, stand on one leg and with the interior of both knees touching each other. Grab your foot from the leg you are not standing on and pull it towards your butt, making sure that you keep your chest pushed up and have your hips forward. When you begin to feel a strong stretch, hold it for around 20-30 seconds before performing the same stretch on the other leg.  Seated Spinal Twist The glute muscles are located in your butt and are absolutely critical to healthy leg function. If you'r someone who spends an excessive amount of time sitting throughout the day, stretching your glute muscles is important for reducing tightness as well as preventing further injury. Issues such as knee injuries and lower back pain can result from glute muscles which are not properly stretched. One way to address this concern is to perform a seated spinal twist stretch. To perform a seated spinal twist, begin seated, preferably on a mat, with your legs extended straight in front of you. Bend your right knee and bring it over your left leg, moving your right heel as close to your left sit-bone as you can. Move your right arm behind you and place your fingertips on the floor. Bring your left hand to your right knee or thigh and use it to pull your knee to the left until you feel a stretch in your glutes. Hold this stretch for at least 30 seconds before you release it and repeat the stretch on your left side.  If you looking to improve your physical health situation and are in need of physical therapy, or are interested in receiving a functional movement screening, contact Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness today and we will be happy to assist you with your first steps towards recovery. We have an extensive team of qualified physical therapists and specialists who care deeply about their clients and go above and beyond the call of duty to provide the highest quality treatment in the industry. If you are looking for a therapist who will carefully assess your individual needs and formulate a treatment plan that is specifically tailored to your needs, Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness is your preferred choice for the physical recovery process.   Wed, 26 Sep 2018 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/16707/Helpful-Stretches-to-Combat-Stiff-Legs-from-Your-Friendly-Physical-Therapist http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/16706/Using-TRX-Training-to-Get-Fit- blog When choosing healthy ways to lose weight and become fit, it can be hard to decipher what is best and safest. From calorie restriction and cutting carbs, to running and strength training, it can be overwhelming trying to find a place to start—or pick up if your current plan hasn't worked for you. Intermittent fasting and TRX training in Denver are two of the ways that can help you reach your goals in a safe and healthy manner.   Establishing Fitness Goals As you are working to lose weight, it is important to set goals. Just as you do at work or with a project, it is important to understand the reasoning for your work. Even more important, set goals. While so many factors play into results, you can set goals for the work you will do. For instance, being able to maintain your momentum running a 5K or doing a certain set of reps during exercises. From there, set milestones to hit. Goals can include:  Reduce body mass index (BMI) Get healthier Have more strength Prepare for an upcoming activity Once you achieve one of your goals, move on to the next! It always helps to set new goals when you conquer one of them.  What is TRX training?  If you haven't had the opportunity to swing into your next workout with TRX suspension training, you are missing out. TRX suspension training is a relatively new way to work out with just your body weight. It forces just about every muscle in your body to work in a pull or push motion like no other exercise does. At Peak Physical Therapy & Wellness, we have embraced TRX suspension training in Denver (We include a comprehensive list of some of the benefits of TRX training here.) Are you looking for a way to increase your strength and get fit, that is not cardio-heavy? TRX training is a great way to go. TRX training is a form of suspension training, which allows you to use your own weight. When working against gravity, you become stronger. Those who participate in this type of training especially notice a difference with the strengthening of their core. During TRX training, you can work all areas of your body: arms, back, core, and legs. Over time, you will notice a tone, lean body.  When working alongside your local physical therapist, you will put your hands or feet onto its handles connected to bands, then begin your workout. The physical therapist will guide you through each exercise to ensure you have proper form. These bands will work all of the muscles in your body. The great thing about TRX is how easy and sustainable it is. Even if you can't always make it to the gym or for an appointment with your physical therapist, you can still practice TRX at home.  It is suitable for everyone, regardless of your current level of fitness. Olympic athletes and couch potatoes alike will benefit from this exercise. The body weight load can be increased or decreased by just slight shifts in position. This type of training works for everyone. It can help you achieve any health or fitness goal. Regardless of your goal, whether you want to get stronger, lose weight, or run a marathon, TRX suspension training can help you achieve it. It can be used to improve cardiovascular health as well as to increase strength. There is an old adage when it comes to lifting weights for a cardio workout that says, Just lift faster! And this same theory holds true for TRX training. You can speed up your performance of an exercise and make great gains from a cardiovascular endurance standpoint. For all of your health and fitness goals, Peak Physical Therapy & Wellness will help. As your local physical therapy specialist, we work hard to find the root of any problems and help you achieve your desired results. With more than 20 years of experience, you will love working with our team to accomplish your health and finesse goals. With locations all across the Denver area, contact Peak PT & Wellness to find the office nearest you to get started.    Wed, 19 Sep 2018 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/16706/Using-TRX-Training-to-Get-Fit- http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/16465/Ways-to-Find-Relief-For-Your-TMJ-Pain blog Are you one of the millions suffering from temporomandibular joint and muscle disorder (TMD)? You don't have to suffer in silence. Those with TMD experience jaw pain, headaches, muscle spasms, neck pain, dizziness, popping or locking of the jaw, or tinnitus. Today, there are a variety of options to help make symptoms manageable. It all starts with a conversation with your doctor, dentist, and Denver TMJ expert. Use some of these treatments and ask your local TMJ physical therapist for tips to find relief. Mouth Guards Mouth guards are often used as a treatment for people with Bruxism, which is excessive grinding or clenching. Many TMD sufferers also clench their teeth while sleeping, which can lead to headaches, tinnitus, jaw pain, earaches, and more. In extreme cases, it can even damage one's teeth. Since this is an involuntary action done while sleeping, a mouth guard can help. Your dentist will be able to create a fitted mold, customized to your mouth. From there, the mouth guard can be worn every night to help from clenching. Hot and Cool Packs Treating pain with heat and cold can provide quick relief when in pain due to TMD. As for which to use, you can take your pick. For soreness, cool ice packs could be great to set on the jaw. The cool temperature will help to reduce any inflammation in the area. For tension, a hot cloth may be best to help you ease any tension. Foods to Avoid Certain foods or gum can be an instant trigger for TMD pain. When the jaw is overworked or struggles, you may instantly feel pain, soreness, tension, and more. Try to stay away from the following if you have TMD:   Chewy foods: Foods or gum that take extra effort and strain the jaw are best to eat in small amounts or avoid as much as possible. This can be items like chewy candies, fatty foods such as steak, lobster or baguettes Crunchy food: When you eat items that are thick and crunchy, such as raw carrots or broccoli, it can put a strain on the jaw. This also includes nuts, potato chips, pretzels, and many other snack foods. Processed foods or sugar: Did you know that added sugar or processed foods can lead to inflammation? This can make your TMD flair up, making for an unpleasant feeling. Medications When choosing to treat your TMD with medication, it is best to consult with a local TMJ specialist. Some of the common medications used to treat TMD include:   Anti-inflammatories: These medications are a great way to reduce swelling and tension in an area Muscle relaxers: The jaw muscles are connected all the way to the temples, so there are many opportunities for a person to feel tension and stain. These will help the muscles ease. Anti-depressants: Some TMD sufferers will take an anti-depressant to help reduce pain. How? They help work to change your body's interpretation of the pain. Botox® Injections Botox injections can be inserted into one's temples to help relax the muscles within the temples to the jaw. This is especially ideal if you have frequent headaches. It will help relax your muscles and may help you feel much better. Plus, if you have any wrinkles, it will help with those too! Don't worry, a small amount of Botox will not make your face look frozen. Just a small amount of Botox is needed to relax the muscles. The process is not painful and can be completed in a 30-minute office visit or less. A small amount of relief can occur instantly, and you will notice a significant difference within a couple days.   Bite Adjustment When the jaw is properly aligned, it can lead to issues with the temporomandibular joint—often causing TMD. There are many TMD sufferers who cope with main simply because their jaw is not aligned properly. One option to help this problem is through a bite adjustment. In many cases, braces can solve the problem. For others, the jaw may be aligned, but the teeth are different lengths, causing your mouth not to sit evenly. A dentist can go through to even everything out. In addition, other issues may include damaged or old fillings or damaged teeth. Surgery While a last resort in many cases, surgery can be performed to help you alleviate symptoms of TMD. Each situation is different, depending on one's symptom, jaw, teeth, and more. When it comes to types, there are two common surgeries for those with TMD:   Arthroscopy: A low invasive surgery that only makes one small incision. A surgeon will be able to look at the area to see where inflammation. From here, they can remove it, which will provide ease.   Arthroplasty: For serious jaw issues, an arthroplasty may be necessary. They can go in and fix any alignment issues, remove scar tissue, and more. A complete joint replacement may be needed in very extreme instances. Exercises and Physical Therapy TMD can be worsened due to poor posture and improper movements. Through a special set of exercises, a physical therapist can work with you one-on-one on a plan to help provide relief. Through movements, but not overworking, you can strengthen the area and ease the tension. A physical therapist can also create a plan for those who have problems with their jaw locking. They can re-teach how the muscles react, providing relief.   As you search for ways to ease your craniofacial pain and TMJ (jaw pain), Peak Physical Therapy & Wellness can help. Our patients will be sure to help you with a plan to help your neck and jaw pain. You may even notice an improvement in sinus issues, a reduction of headaches, and more. There is no reason to suffer, especially with eight different locations. You can visit your nearest office to work through issues. Paired with a plan from your dentist, you will be happy to live a TMD-pain-free life! Contact Peak PT & Wellness today to see how we can start on your customized TMD plan. Wed, 12 Sep 2018 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/16465/Ways-to-Find-Relief-For-Your-TMJ-Pain http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/16464/Endometriosis-and-Using-a-Denver-Women-s-Health-Expert-to-Treat- blog Did you know nearly one in every 10 women have endometriosis? This disease can cause a plethora of symptoms and uncomfortable pain, at times for some, it can be debilitating. It can also cause issues for those trying to start a family as well. Because endometriosis can be so common, it is important to recognize the signs and symptoms. You should be sure to address any concerns with your doctor and local Denver women's health expert. What is endometriosis? Endometriosis occurs when the lining that normally surrounds the surfaces around the uterus grows on other organs within the body. While commonly found in the lower abdomen (fallopian tubes, ovaries area around the uterus), this lining can grow in other areas, which becomes problematic. Some of these areas include the cervix, bowel, bladder or lungs. Currently, doctors are not sure what causes this disease. Researches have investigated that it could be due to genetics, hormones, irregular menstruation blood flow, immune system failures or after a surgery. It is possible that the endometrial cells are transferred outside of the uterus hence causing the disease. The thought about blood flow from researchers is that endometriosis could be due to retrograde menstruation, which is when blood flow goes in the opposite direction. They believe when the cells travel to the other areas in the body, it can cause the uterine lining to grow. An actual diagnosis can be confirmed after a pelvic exam or surgery, but many doctors can make an estimation based on symptoms, genetic history, etc. Types of examinations and surgeries that can confirm it include an MRI, ultrasound, CAT scan or laparoscopy. This will allow a doctor to see any inflammation and symptoms to confirm. Common signs and symptoms There are several different signs and symptoms associated with endometriosis. A few of the most common include:   Pain: Pain due to endometriosis can occur in several ways. For some, cramps during menstruation can be extremely painful. This happens because due to cells in the other areas where the lining is growing. The area can undergo inflammation as well, creating a painful situation. Periods: When a woman with endometriosis has a period, in many cases, blood flow will be much heavier. One may also experience pain in the lower abdomen area or nausea. Urinary problems: Those with endometriosis may have to use the restroom more frequently. Intercourse: Other women have difficulty during intercourse due to pain. It can feel like a sharp stab that not only hurts during intercourse but can continue to hurt for a few days preceding it. Infertility: Many women who have endometriosis experience infertility issues. It may take much longer to conceive, or the possibility that conception is not possible at all. Genetics: If endometriosis runs in someone's family, it can increase a woman's chances of developing it. Emotional distress: Due to the painful symptoms and difficulty to conceive, endometriosis causes several women stress and anxiety. It is important for women to talk to their doctor and seek therapy to overcome issues. Fatigue: A woman that suffers from endometriosis can feel tiredness and fatigue throughout the day, even if you get enough sleep.   Misconceptions There are many myths and misconceptions that surround endometriosis. First is the age of when a woman can begin experiencing symptoms. Endometriosis is assumed to always appear in women that are in their early 20s to mid-30s. In reality, young girls can begin showing symptoms as young as seven-years-old. Many also believe an endometriosis diagnosis equals infertility. While it can be more difficult to conceive, infertility is not always the case. Many women with endometriosis can get pregnant and think pregnancy is a cure. Unfortunately, this is not true. Symptoms may decrease during pregnancy but can return after a baby is born. Last are myths that hormones can be a cure. Many believe various types of synthetic hormones, such as birth control pills, can treat the disease. While they may alleviate certain symptoms, they will not cure endometriosis. Endometriosis and pregnancy As noted, a high percentage of women with endometriosis can get pregnant. It often takes much longer to conceive but it is not impossible. It is harder to conceive due to a variety of reasons:   Egg travel: When there is inflammation or damage to the reproductive organs, it can be difficult for an egg to implant to the uterine wall. In some cases, symptoms of endometriosis can prevent the ovaries from releasing an egg at all. Fallopian tubes: Endometriosis can cause a woman's fallopian tubes to work improperly, hence negatively impacting a woman's chances to get pregnant. Damage: A woman's egg or a man's sperm can be damaged due to endometriosis. Treatments and relief Even though there is not a cure for endometriosis, treatments to provide relief are available. Pain medications are the top ways a woman can find relief from symptoms. Anti-inflammatories are the top medication to reduce swelling in the area. In extreme cases, women may opt for surgery which can remove the additional growth. Not only will this reduce pain levels but can also increase chances to conceive. Hormones are another way symptoms can be relieved. Hormones can make the additional layers thicker that then break down. This type of therapy can be done through birth control pills, hormone shots and more. Physical therapy can also help treat endometriosis. Through pelvic floor exercises, a physical therapist can help calm the muscles in the area which will reduce pain and inflammation. When the pelvic floor is strengthened, the pain in the lower abdominal area, during sex and more can be alleviated. Through our men and women's health services, Peak Physical Therapy & Wellness can help women suffering from endometriosis. Using a variety of pelvic floor exercises and more, a woman can seek relief through a variety of services. In addition, these exercises can help alleviate pelvic and lower back pain, irritable bowel syndrome, incontinence, overactive bladder and much more. There is no reason to suffer from rehabilitating symptoms due to your endometriosis—schedule your consultation with a team member today. Wed, 05 Sep 2018 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/16464/Endometriosis-and-Using-a-Denver-Women-s-Health-Expert-to-Treat- http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/16462/Hiking-Tips-and-Exercises-from-Your-Physical-Therapist-in-Parker blog A Colorado Summer wouldn't be complete without plenty of hiking trips to the mountains. One of the best parts of living in the Centennial State is the availability of outdoor activities to keep you physically fit and connected with nature. Hiking is one of the most common activities that Coloradans engage in, which can be easily observed simply by going to a popular trailhead on the weekend. While hiking is a fantastic activity for staying physically fit, it's important to be prepared prior to scaling your favorite peak. Here are some helpful tips and exercises to be aware of from your physical therapist in parker. What to Pack If you're intending to go on a reasonably long hike, it's important to pack all of the essential items that will help you stay safe and prevent your afternoon affair from going sour. Without question, perhaps the most important item to pack is water. Staying hydrated while on a hike is critical to your safety, as dehydration while in the wilderness can be an absolute emergency. It's always good to err on the side of caution and to bring more water than you think you'll need. Look into things such as easy-to-pack water bladders that can hold up to a gallon of h20. Another important item to consider prior to venturing out into the wild is a variation in clothing. While it may appear to be a warm and sunny day out, it's crucial to bring clothes for all types of weather events. Colorado weather can change dramatically in an instant, and being caught out on a trail without rain gear or proper layers can make your afternoon miserable. Look into clothing that is versatile and easy-to-pack while also providing you with the right amount of coverage. The sun in Colorado can be intense and it's important to bring plenty of sunscreen and a sunhat to avoid getting too much UV rays. It doesn't take long to become sunburnt while on a trail, especially if it doesn't have a lot of shade. Additionally, think of items that you'll want to have with you on a long, scenic hike. This can include things such as an energy bar or other types of food to ensure you stave off the irritable feelings of hunger. You'll also certainly want to bring sunglasses to shield your eyes from excessive exposure to the sun, as constantly squinting your eyes will definitely detract from your overall experience of the trail. Exercises to Practice Prior to Hiking The act of hiking can be much more strenuous and physically demanding than a person might expect, especially if you're on a jaunt at higher elevations. You may think you're perfectly limber and able to handle any kind of trail, but it's always a good idea to prepare ahead of time with a number of helpful stretches to keep your body primed for the journey. Since you'll likely have some gear on your back, it's a good idea to be practice a variety of stretches that will reduce the likelihood that you will not be able to handle the hike. Lunges are a great exercise to engage in as a way to keep your lower extremities in adequate shape and condition. Hiking requires a large amount of physical exertion from your legs, as you'll often be traversing over large rocks and consistently climbing up various obstacles present in the environment. A lunge will require the same muscles you use while pulling yourself up an elevated terrain. Be sure to practice this exercise while alternating legs to ensure that both parts of your lower body are in shape. Another great exercise to consider for hiking are leg squats. This activity will exert force on your quadriceps muscles, which are the strongest muscles in our legs. Having quads that are strong will be a major boost while on a hike, as they will assist us in going up as well as coming back down areas of high elevation gain. Squatting down as low as you can while making sure not to let your knees go past your toes will be a great way to prevent putting too much pressure on your knees. While having lower body strength is absolutely essential to being able to traverse difficult terrain, it's also important to remember that having core body strength is something you shouldn't neglect. For this reason, consider doing exercises that will improve your abdominal muscles. Planking can be a simple, yet powerful activity to greatly improve your core strength and will greatly boost your hiking experience. Beyond strength-training exercises, it's also important to properly stretch prior to going on a long hike. Stretching your hamstring is important for preventing muscle strains. This can be accomplished by laying your leg on a bed or table, hinging forward toward the hip joint while keeping your knee straight. Stretching your calves to avoid excessive stress to your Achilles tendon and knees is also recommended prior to hiking. If you've been dealing with a serious injury, it's also a great idea to consult with your local Parker physical therapist prior to engaging in a serious hike. Clearly, the last thing you want to occur is to re-injure yourself and preventing the possibility of enjoying the Colorado outdoors to the fullest. If you looking to improve your physical health situation and are in need of physical therapy, or have questions about what physical therapy consists of, contact Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness today and we will be happy to assist you with your first steps towards recovery. We have an extensive team of qualified physical therapists and specialists who care deeply about their clients and go above and beyond the call of duty to provide the highest quality treatment in the industry. If you are looking for a therapist who will carefully assess your individual needs and formulate a treatment plan that is specifically tailored to your needs, Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness is your preferred choice for the physical recovery process. Wed, 29 Aug 2018 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/16462/Hiking-Tips-and-Exercises-from-Your-Physical-Therapist-in-Parker http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/16461/Recently-Diagnosed-with-Rheumatoid-Arthritis--How-Physical-Therapy-in-Denver-Will-Help blog Each year, more than one million Americans are diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). While there is still much to be learned about this disease, there is quite a bit that is known about it. Today, advancements have been made allowing those who are coping with this condition easier to manage. If you have RA, it runs in your family, or you think you are seeing some signs, take the time to understand more about this disease. Between care from your doctor to working with physical therapy in Denver, you can live a long, happy, healthy, and comfortable life. Intro to Rheumatoid Arthritis RA is an autoimmune disease. This means that the body mistakes parts of itself as harmful intruders, creating a reaction to fight them away. Problem is, nothing is wrong at all, yet the body begins to attack itself trying to fight off what it believes to be a problem. There are several different types of autoimmune diseases, such as multiple sclerosis, Type 1 diabetes, Celiac disease, lupus, psoriatic arthritis, and RA. Each of these autoimmune diseases creates a reaction to something that results in a reaction of the immune system. For RA, it is an attack on the joints and can happen anywhere throughout the body. It can also have a negative impact and cause infections of the heart, lungs, skin, eyes, and more. While common in the elderly, it is also seen in adults in their 30s. It may slowly develop and not completely surface until decades later; each case of RA is different. Because it can build so slow, it may not always be as apparent to a physician that the root of the issue is early onset RA. This is why it is important to share with them if you have a history of RA in your family. Also, it is more prevalent in women than men. Common Symptoms One of the most common symptoms those with RA experience are swollen joints and inflammation. They may feel still and hard to move. It can be even more confusing because the pain isn't always non-stop. They can come and go, leading you to think it's a fluke or something you accidentally did. In addition, those suffering from this disorder often feel tired, suffer from anemia, lose weight, minor fevers, and more. Since these symptoms are so mixed, it is easy for a person to assume each issue is a separate problem and not all connected to one issue, that issue being RA. When the disease goes untreated for too long, there can actually be extensive damage done to the joints. This is why it is important to act quickly. Leading Causes The actual cause of RA has yet still to be discovered by doctors. However, they were able to find a few correlations. The most common is genetic. For those with RA that runs in their family, it automatically increases the chance they may get it. It can also happen due to an environment a person is in each day. Working in environments that are heavily polluted or filled with insecticides have been known to cause RA. Those who are not healthy are also at a higher risk of RA. This is especially true for smokers. In addition, this applies to those that are overweight. So, in some cases where it runs in the family, there may not be much control there. However, if you are a smoker or overweight, it's never too early to turn things around, especially because RA is one of several different health issues that can negatively impact you. Treatments and Management Plans The earlier you and your doctor can start treating your RA, the better. When early, aggressive treatment is implemented, it's been shown to reduce or even eliminate the swelling. One of the ways this is accomplished is by taking nonsteroidal, anti-inflammatory drugs, otherwise known as NSAIDs. These can include medications such as ibuprofen, naproxen, celecoxib, and more. This will keep the swelling down, allowing you to have a better range of motion and less stiffness. Corticosteroids are also used in minor forms of the disease to calm the inflammation as well. You can explore more about the different types of medicines through reading which drugs ease rheumatoid arthritis pain. In extreme cases where joints have been damaged, replacement surgery may be needed, which will also reduce the amount of pain a person has to experience each day. What is a Rheumatologist? Upon learning you have RA, it is important to begin working with a rheumatologist. Rheumatologists are trained professionals that specialize in RA to help their patients live as comfortably as possible. You can get a referral from your doctor, or in many cases, seek one on your own that falls within your insurance plan. The rheumatologist will run a various number of tests to look into the severity of your case and create a medication and recovery plan. The goal is to minimize flare-ups and inflammation that can become so problematic in the long term. How Physical Therapy Will Help In addition to working with a rheumatologist, it is also important for those with RA to work with a physical therapist. A physical therapist will help you maintain your range of motion in your joints, which is crucial. As time goes on and your RA progresses, it can be difficult to want to move. A physical therapist will create a plan specific to your condition to keep your body working together and reduce symptoms. Seeing a physical therapist is not overwhelming and difficult. They'll help you every step of the way to help. Review more about preparing for your Denver physical therapy appointment if you have never been before. As you are managing your RA, Peak Physical Therapy & Wellness can help. Our trained staff will create a plan custom to you that will ease your RA symptoms. This will help you maintain a healthy range of motion. Contact a Peak PT & Wellness location near you to schedule your first appointment—and stop suffering from this condition alone. Wed, 22 Aug 2018 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/16461/Recently-Diagnosed-with-Rheumatoid-Arthritis--How-Physical-Therapy-in-Denver-Will-Help http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/16397/Lose-the-Weight-and-Train-with-Peak-Physical-Therapy blog Have you already missed your new year resolution goal to lose weight? Or are you ready to take the next step to achieve your health and fitness goals? Living a healthy lifestyle will help you feel better and be more productive. Often times, many of the foods consumed today make consumers feel sluggish and tired. Not only does this impact your day to day, but also hinders you from getting the proper amount of exercise you need. Add in technology that might lead you to be more sedentary and it can lead to serious health issues down the road. It is important to make changes to your diet now, which is something Parker physical therapy can help with. Setting Healthy Goals As you plan your weight loss goals, it is important to not only be realistic but find what you like. Often times, people cook bland foods and eat fewer calories than they should for losing weight. Mix that in with exercise that is not enjoyable, and it is a recipe for failure. The first step to getting started to lose weight and exercise better is to set a realistic goal. While you might think you should lose a certain amount of weight, aim for a healthy range. Start by using a BMI calculator. BMI, which stands for "body mass index," is the amount of body fat factoring in weight and height. It compares how much you weigh and looks at how proportionate it is with height. There are calculators for both men and women. The healthy amount for both is 18.5 to 24.9. Aim to lose an amount of weight that will put you in the healthy range. Finding Plans Right for You Once you have set a healthy goal for weight loss, choose a method that works for you. It is very important to find a plan that is sustainable long-term. Avoid going on a fad diet that leads you to consume too few calories or is overly restrictive on foods. You may be able to keep up with the fad diet for a few weeks or month, but research has shown those who go on fad diets eventually break. When this happens, it is easy to spiral out of control and gain the weight back—or worse, more. Fad diets are also incredibly unhealthy and can lead to long-term negative side effects. A healthy plan will have you losing about two pounds per week. It is important to explore plans that will work for you. If one seems too difficult to maintain, try another! Some diet plans to consider include:   Weight Watchers: Using a scientific point system as opposed to calorie counting, the newly launched Freestyle program allows you to consume more than 200 foods that are considered "zero points." While it is important not to go overboard on the zero points, it gives more flexibility with staying fuller longer. You also receive a bank of points to use whenever you would like and can roll over up to four points per day. Follow the plan online for about $12 per month, take advantage of tracking and meetings for almost $28 per month, or receive tracking and personal coaching for $50 per month. MyFitnessPal: MyFitnessPal is a free app that allows you to track your caloric intake. You will put in your weight and a timeframe, and the app will set you up with a number of calories to eat per day. It also will give you an in-depth analysis of how much protein, carbs, fiber, etc. you are taking in and suggestions on amounts to stay under. It also will help you track macronutrients, also known as "macros." It is a factor of carbs, fats, and protein. Certain weight loss plans will suggest eating less of one and more of another. All can be tracked for free in this app. Upgraded versions of the app are available for additional features. Clean eating: Not a fan of tracking? Or looking for ways to enhance a diet plan? Improvements in your diet can lead to weight loss. Clean eating involves eating foods that are not processed or contain anything artificial. This includes sugar, which you will find is in everything.   Importance of Exercising Incorporating exercise into your healthy eating is crucial for health and weight loss. Find an activity that you enjoy and participate in it 150 minutes per week. While you might think you have to run, if running is not your thing, find a sport or activity, such as playing tennis, basketball or volleyball. Swimming is also a great way to exercise to work all parts of your body. In addition, add in strength training at least two times per week. This will help you become stronger and tone. For weight loss, do not treat exercise as a reason to be able to consume more calories. Keep working towards your plan, using exercise top supplement losing weight.   Incorporating TRX Suspension Training A great way to strength train is with TRX suspension training. Using your own body weight, suspension training builds strength by using gravity. An advantage of this type of exercise is that you can incorporate cardio in with it too. To get started with TRX training in Denver, visit your local physical therapist. From form to a routine, they will walk you through the ins and outs, so you can become an expert. You can continue working with your therapist or also begin to do the training at home. It requires very little space and equipment, making it a cost-effective way to reach your goals. By incorporating TRX training two to three times per week, you will begin to notice a difference fairly quickly. To get started with your weight loss and fitness goals, schedule an appointment with Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness. Our team will help you with a customized plan to reach your health and fitness goals, become a better athlete, and even improve or eliminate aches and pains. We have locations all across the area, allowing you to visit the location nearest you. Stop putting off your goals and contact Peak PT & Wellness today. Wed, 15 Aug 2018 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/16397/Lose-the-Weight-and-Train-with-Peak-Physical-Therapy http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/16341/Strategies-For-Maintaining-Your-Health-as-You-Age blog The prospect of aging is not something anyone really wants to face, but the fact remains, every day we're getting a little bit older. The things that once came to us with ease now presents a much more difficult hurdle, especially if we haven't taken the necessary maintenance steps to keep our bodies in peak condition. The truth is, we need to do everything in our power to maintain our health on a daily basis. In order to age as gracefully as possible, there are a number of things we can do to ensure we retain our health and quality of life as we get older. Here are a number of things you can do to feel young as the years pass by from your Denver physical therapist. Get Off the Couch and Get Moving As we age, the allure of the couch or a comfortable chair can become increasingly appealing as time moves on. It can be difficult to avoid the urge to rest our bones and bodies by lounging and binge watching our favorite shows and movies. While there certainly is a place for entertainment, rest, and relaxation in our lives, too much time spent sitting in one place can have profoundly negative effects on our health. Getting off the couch in favor of movement doesn't need to mean running a marathon or doing some form of extreme physical activity. Often, it can mean simply going for a walk or bike ride as a way to get the blood pumping. The benefits of exercise are plentiful and can positively impact a person's body as well as the mind, both of which are critical to maintaining as we get older. Staying physically fit is a fantastic way to maintain our health and it's essential for not falling into a health hole that becomes more and more difficult to get out of as time goes on. Take An Exercise Class Motivating yourself to move can be a difficult task, one that lacks accountability mechanisms outside of your own personal willpower. By signing up for an exercise or yoga class, you'll be much more committed to following through with your given physical activity. Participating in an exercise class can be a fantastic way of keeping yourself on the path to working out. If you have a friend or loved one that is interested in joining you, it can increase the chances that you will follow through, as you will have an accountability buddy to further motivate you. Depending on your age and current level of physicality, you can look into classes that are age-specific and are catered towards your specific conditions. Many health clubs and gyms have classes which are specifically tailored towards older individuals. Participating in a class where you are surrounded by younger individuals can be intimidating and make it less likely to show up for class. Seek out classes that have a large percentage of your peers enrolled can be a helpful mechanism to keep you dedicated to exercising. Find Strong Social Outlets Maintaining relationships and creating positive social networks is incredibly important to keep our mental health in a positive state. Isolation and excessive solitude can be a huge factor in our health declining as we get older. The benefits of having consistent social interaction as we get older become absolutely essential to increasing our longevity. Without any substantive relationships, mental and physical health can rapidly decline, as loneliness can lead to depression and feelings of worthlessness. Finding an outlet to maintain our social life is incredibly important in the fight to maintain our health as we age. Whether this means joining a social group at a local community center or simply volunteering as a way to socialize, we need to find ways to keep ourselves socially engaged. Self-esteem can decrease massively with age, a factor which can rapidly decrease our overall level of health as we get older. Although discovering and seeking out new social networks can be an intimidating process, the importance of fostering these connections far outweighs the anxiety that can accompany such a process. Remind yourself of the plethora of benefits associated with socializing and realize that any potential risks are far outweighed by the benefits. Try Doing Yoga As we age, our bodies become much less flexible and more prone to injury as a result. Yoga has massively increased in popularity in recent years because of the many health benefits that come with a regular yoga practice. Yoga has the ability to improve mobility and flexibility, two things that older individuals certainly need to focus on whenever possible. Yoga also can improve a person's muscle strength, improve their respiration, and increase their overall energy level. Increasing your energy level is an essential component to remaining young and increases the chances that you'll be physically active and mobile. A yoga practice will improve your balance and stability, as various poses focus on improving these factors. Falls are a very common way in which seniors become injured and finding ways to improve balance are critical as we grow older as a result. Increasing your personal strength and mobility as you age is important for improving and reducing recovery time, which can become a major hindrance as we get older. If you looking to improve your physical health situation and are in need of physical therapy, or have questions about what physical therapy consists of, contact Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness today. We have an extensive team of qualified physical therapists and specialists who care deeply about their clients and go above and beyond the call of duty to provide the highest quality treatment in the industry. If you are looking for a therapist who will carefully assess your individual needs and formulate a treatment plan that is specifically tailored to your needs, Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness is your preferred choice for the physical recovery process. Wed, 08 Aug 2018 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/16341/Strategies-For-Maintaining-Your-Health-as-You-Age http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/16292/Use-Physical-Therapy-to-Improve-Women-s-Health-in-Parker- blog Did you know more than 23 percent of women experience some type of pelvic pain or disorder in their lifetime? For some, they are undergoing symptoms regularly. What many do not realize is they do not have to fight through the pain. In fact, in many situations, the pain can be reduced, or even eliminated! It is important to know different ways to be a healthier woman, common pelvic issues, and how a specialist in women's health in Parker will help. Women's Health Basics As a woman ages, it is important to know health basics and make changes to live a healthier lifestyle. Even if certain things were done when they were younger, it is never too late to make changes for the better. Why? Women have a higher risk for certain issues including stress, depression and/or anxiety, heart attacks, osteoporosis, STDs, and much more. In addition, women also deal with pelvic issues. When it comes to the ideal picture of health, each person is different. What is healthy for you may not be for someone else, which is why it is important to see your primary care physician for annual health examinations. Ways to Improve Health There are several steps a woman can take to make her healthier. It is important to focus on health to feel better and be more productive.   Hydrate: Studies say you should at least get 64 ounces of water in per day. The more you can drink though, the better. When a woman isn't dehydrated, a slew of issues can arise, making it difficult to be productive. These can include headaches, dry mouth, fatigue, and more. Make sure you stay hydrated throughout the day instead of all at once. If you plan to work out, make sure you drink plenty of water before then directly after. Exercise: Today—we are a nation busier than ever. As we stay busy in our day-to-day with work and activities, many forget or avoid exercise. Nearly half of all adults do not get the amount of exercise they need. While some should exercise for weight loss, it also helps to promote a healthy lifestyle. If you aren't sure what you like, find something you look forward to in these workout routines and ideas. Curb Bad Eating Habits: When you eat healthier, you will feel better. But your body will also function better, too. Food helps fuel the body to keep you going throughout the day. If you rely on bars, energy drinks, and other artificial supplements, you may be causing yourself more harm. Make sure you fill up on green vegetables, which will help increase the nutrients in your body. For meals, make sure half of your plate includes veggies. You can research ways to dress them up and add flavor, all while giving your body what it needs. Also, don't be afraid of fats. Healthy fats such as avocados, olive oil, nuts, and more. By improving your lifestyle, you will notice a large difference in the way you look and feel. Your skin may clear up, digestion issues alleviated, experience weight loss and more. For women that are post-menopausal, there is an increased risk of osteoporosis and other heart or stroke issues. Speak with your physician to come up with an ideal plan that works for you. Common Issues As a woman, you are more at-risk for certain issues than men. These include:   Heart disease: Based on Go Red's heart disease statistics at a glance, one in three women are killed each year due to a heart attack. In fact, they say around 44 million are affected in some way by cardiovascular disease. Some women have small heart attacks without even realizing it. It is important to practice good health habits now to avoid issues down the road. Hypothyroidism: It is more likely for a woman to be diagnosed with hypothyroidism than men. Hypothyroidism is common for those over the age of 50, particularly women. This disorder happens when the body is unable to make the proper number of hormones that keep one's metabolism at a healthy rate. Endometriosis: More than six million women suffer from endometriosis, which is when tissue that lines around a woman's uterus is on the outside. It can be in other areas, not just on the uterus, which can be painful. In addition to pain, a woman may also experience irregular bleeding or spotting, digestion problems, and infertility. Problems in the Pelvic Area Women often experience issues in their pelvic floor region that can cause such a mix of painful and uncomfortable symptoms. These symptoms are not just tied to one area in the pelvic region. Pelvic floor issues can also cause lower back pain, as well. Common pelvic problems a woman may experience are:   Incontinence: Unable to control going to the bathroom Pelvic inflammatory disease: When the pelvic area becomes inflamed Irritable bowel syndrome: Frequent abdominal pain and issues with bowel movements Abdominal pain: A variety of pains that are located anywhere in the abdominal area Separation of muscles in the pelvic area Hernias: An organ or tissue that goes through tissue, causing pain Using Physical Therapy When it comes to pelvic issues, did you know a physical therapist can help? Through a series of exercises, the area can be strengthened. When the muscles in this area are damaged or weak, it leads to all of the issues mentioned above, and more. It can be especially helpful for women who have children, allowing them to use techniques to strengthen the region. Each situation is different but as you explore Parker women's health, what you need to know about pelvic physical therapy can make such a difference in your life. As you work to improve your health and pelvic issues, Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness will help. Our team of experts can help you develop a healthy lifestyle and strengthen your pelvic region in a customized plan. This will help you live pain-free from lower back issues, abdominal pain, painful intercourse, and much more. Find the location nearest you and contact Peak PT & Wellness today. Wed, 01 Aug 2018 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/16292/Use-Physical-Therapy-to-Improve-Women-s-Health-in-Parker- http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/16247/Most-Common-Sports-Injuries-that-Can-Require-Physical-Therapy blog Every physical sport comes with some potential risk of injury. Whether you're playing softball recreationally, are hitting the slopes to go backcountry skiing, or are playing a game of pickup basketball with friends, there are plenty of ways in which you can deal with a debilitating injury. Each individual activity comes with its own set of unique challenges and hazards, making it all the more essential to take the necessary and appropriate precaution before engaging in the given sport. If you are as active as many people are in the Denver area, here are the most common sports injuries that can require physical therapy. Ankle Sprain A sprained ankle occurs when you roll or twist your ankle in an awkward or undesirable fashion. This can happen in any number of physical sports, whether it's running, playing basketball or volleyball, or simply hiking. A sprained ankle is by far one of the most common injuries that athletes experience, as intense and quick movements increase the chances that someone will inadvertently land on their ankle in an awkward way. Thankfully, a sprained ankle is something that can usually be treated by an individual without requiring extensive medical treatment. An athlete can rehabilitate themselves using a number of different methods that can assist and speed up the recovery process. Ice packs are always an athlete's best friend in regards to treating an injury that involves intense swelling, which a sprained ankle will likely include. Engaging in exercises that assist your balance, coordination, and agility will help strengthen your ankle and increase the odds that you will be resilient in the act of physical activities. Hamstring Strain A strained hamstring is when the three muscles in the back of the thigh become over-stretched by movements. This can occur during the course of a number of physical activities, whether it's falling forward while running or kicking the leg sharply while playing soccer. A hamstring strain can be debilitating to an athlete that relies on quick leg movements to give them an advantage in their particular sport. If you experience a hamstring strain in the course of your given sport, there are a few things you can do to get you back on your feet and on the path to recovery. While the recovery process can be a much slower one than an ankle sprain, it is possible to heal faster if you utilize a set of activities that will be beneficial to your hamstring. Utilize the RICE protocol within the first few days of the injury, which means to rest, ice, compress and elevate your leg. By the end of the first week, you can begin to gently stretch your hamstring. Within approximately two weeks, begin engaging in activities that will strengthen your hamstring muscles. It is important to note that these protocols will be different depending on the severity of your hamstring strain. Groin Pull A strain of the groin occurs when you push off in a side-to-side motion that can cause your groin to become strained. It is common for this injury to occur in sports such as soccer, football, and baseball and any sport that involves intense and continuous side-to-side motion. If you experience a strained groin, give your body plenty of rest, ice the injury, and compress the area in order to heal the injury. In more serious cases, you may need to seek professional help from a doctor or physical therapist in order to adequately recover from the injury. Torn ACL The anterior cruciate ligament is the part of the body that connects the leg bone to the knee. A torn ACL can be a very serious blow to any athlete and can require extensive recovery. For athletes engaged in an active sport, surgery will almost certainly be part of the recovery process in order to return to the desired level of physical activity. An ACL tear is definitely one of the more severe sports injuries and a sign that you have completely torn your ACL can be heard when it makes the dreaded 'pop' sound. You'll certainly require extensive physical therapy and rehabilitation in order to make a full recovery, as this injury is not something that can be recovered from on your own. Rehabilitation exercises should encourage a range of movement and should also help to strengthen your quadriceps and hamstrings. The RICE protocol should also be used prior to surgery as a way to reduce swelling and make life more bearable in the meantime. Tennis Elbow Tennis elbow, or Epicondylitis, results from a repetitive use of the elbow, which can irritate tendons within the elbow. Of course, this particular type of injury is very common in the sport of Tennis, but can also occur during other sports such as golf or baseball. Commonly, this injury occurs in the outside of the elbow and is more prominent in individuals older than 30 years old. While an inconvenience and a major irritation, this injury is not something that will typically require extensive rehabilitation or surgery. Instead, it is possible to recover from this injury simply by resting and restricting this particular physical activity. If serious pain continues despite an extending period of rest, you will definitely want to seek professional medical attention in order to determine a more extensive recovery plan. If you looking to improve your physical health situation and are in need of physical therapy, or have questions about what physical therapy consists of, contact Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness today and we will be happy to assist you with your first steps towards recovery. We have an extensive team of qualified physical therapists and specialists who care deeply about their clients and go above and beyond the call of duty to provide the highest quality treatment in the industry. If you are looking for a therapist who will carefully assess your individual needs and formulate a treatment plan that is specifically tailored to your needs, Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness is your preferred choice for the physical recovery process. Wed, 25 Jul 2018 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/16247/Most-Common-Sports-Injuries-that-Can-Require-Physical-Therapy http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/16167/Proper-Lifting-and-Safety-Tips-for-Your-Move-from-Your-Favorite-Physical-Therapy-Team blog While the end result is exciting, most Americans dread the moving process. The move itself can be so taxing it is easy to forget how to ensure a safe move. Often times some of the smallest of mistakes can lead to injuries that can last a lifetime. Don't let that happen! As you gear up for your next home, review these tips from your local Denver physical therapy team. Gather Essential Tools When it comes to moving, boxes are usually the priority for items to obtain in the weeks leading up the big day. However, there is much more than boxes that are needed. Many movers only think about a few things, but it helps to be fully prepared as you transition into the moving process. Some of these essentials include: Dollies and other hand trucks:  Items with wheels enable you to easily move larger items, reducing the physical strain that comes with lifting and carrying boxes, furniture and more. Packing materials and tape: Securing your valuables is not just essential for their safety, but yours too. Make sure to wrap items with newspaper, bubble wrap, or other packing material, then secure your boxes with packing tape. This will help your boxes from opening at the bottom, causing the items to fall and break—and avoiding a potential injury on your part in the process. Sliders: Did you know you can buy pads that can be placed on the bottom of your furniture? This will help you easily move furniture and other heavy items across the floor. This reduces physical stress on your body and protects your floors—a win-win! You can also buy covers to go on your furniture to protect from scuffing and provide a barrier between you and sharp edges. Scissors and knife: As you pack and unpack, you will be going through several things. Have scissors and a knife handy to cut open boxes or other items.   Moving gloves: You can purchase gloves to wear while moving to help keep your hands safe from cuts, scrapes, and more. Packing 101 As you begin the process to move, it is the perfect time to get rid of unwanted or unused items. This can be done in a variety of ways such as having a yard sale, donating to local charities, or simply throwing certain items away. As you start to pack, work through items that you rarely use first. Choose a category system that works best for you, whether it is packing room by room, or by other methods. If space allows, contain all of your boxes to one place. When labeling your boxes, use a large permanent marker so you can clearly label what is in the box. It helps to label on more than one side, so you can easily identify once you are unpacking.   As you pack the boxes, be smart. Do not overload large boxes with several heavy items. Find a good balance that is easy to carry and manage. For any clothing hanging in a closet, you can keep them on their hangers, then wrap them in a blanket or with garbage bags-just make sure you do not mistake them for actual trash! You may be able to leave certain items in dressers or cabinets as long as you can safely secure them. Create Your Plan To ensure a successful move, you must have a plan. One of the initial questions you should ask yourself is, "Will I handle this move on my own, or would I like to enlist the help of a mover?" If you can afford it, movers can assist with every step in the moving process, taking some of the physical burdens off you. Once you have determined how the move will be handled, create a schedule and set deadlines. For instance, have all non-essential items packed by a certain date, or have all necessary packing items by a specific time. It also helps to have a schedule for moving day, too. While you cannot expect everything to go fully as planned, you can set times to start loading or have the movers arrive and reasonable goals for unpacking. Be sure to take advantage of Real Simple's moving checklist, which will give you a complete two-month guide on everything you need to do leading up to the big day.   Proper Lifting Techniques Moving is a very labor-intensive process. It is exercise, after all! Many people who move often injure themselves due to improper lifting techniques. Your first rule of thumb to remember is to lift using your legs and not putting all of the weight on your back. When picking up boxes, bend and crouch down and hold the bottom and sides of a box. Moving gloves can help you have a better handle on the items. As you bend down, keep your feet at shoulder width. Once secure, lift using your legs and not your lower back. Keep the box or items close to your body, reducing strain on your arms. A great way to remember how to do this is to keep your elbows as close to your sides as possible. If you feel an item is too much to carry on your own, ask for help! Safety Tips One can become injured in a multitude of ways during a move—not sure lifting improperly. A common mistake that happens is tripping or stepping on items out in the open. Before moving day, ensure hallways and open walk spaces are clear. This will help protect you and anyone helping you move stay safe. This also includes pets or children. They may be confused or bored, so make arrangements to have them outside the home or out of harm's way. It is also important to properly dress for a move! Wear clothing that is comfortable and will not get caught on edges or items. Be sure to wear shoes that will support your feet all day. Are you wondering how you can make sure you are prepared to handle the physical activity of your moving day? Peak Physical Therapy & Wellness will help. We will show you proper lifting techniques and more or can help if you do sustain an injury after your move. Contact Peak PT & Wellness today to get started. Wed, 18 Jul 2018 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/16167/Proper-Lifting-and-Safety-Tips-for-Your-Move-from-Your-Favorite-Physical-Therapy-Team http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/16124/Creative-Ways-to-Improve-Your-Fitness-Health-in-Parker blog When you think of remaining healthy and physically fit, the first thought that usually comes to mind is the idea of regularly exercising and eating fresh and nutritional meals. While these are certainly a critical component of any positive health regimen, there are a few different strategies you can utilize that will add to you overall health situation. These creative ways to improve your physical health are a great method of reaching your fitness goals in Parker.   Schedule your Veg-Out Sessions Around Your Workouts   Coming home from a long day of work, it can be easy to simply plop down on the couch and consume copious amounts of television as a way to unwind. While entertainment certainly has its place as a break from the daily grind, it can often sabotage your physical workout regimen. One creative method to have your cake and eat it too is to schedule your workouts around your entertainment time. If you have a treadmill or stationary bike, you can choose to do your cardio while watching your favorite show, a much more preferable way to consume programs.   Use Your Dog as a Motivator   Having a fury friend comes with many responsibilities, activities that can sometimes restrict or limit your ability to head to the gym or engage in your desired physical activity. But this does not need to be the case. Instead of separating your exercise from your dog, find ways to incorporate them into your next workout. If your pet is up to the task, take them on a run to exercise both you and your pooch. Your pup doesn't need to be a hindrance to your fitness and with the proper mindset they can actually be a positive influence towards your fitness goals.   Take the Long Way Home   So you're out and about, running errands or shopping at the mall and you're looking at taking the fastest route to get from point to point. Some places will have convenient ways to get around, such as elevators or escalators, tools that make it easier to get to where you need to go. The attraction of such transportation methods can be strong, but the next time you are in this situation, consider taking the less convenient way to get to your destination. Take the stairs instead of the elevator or escalator as a way to burn calories. Any activity, no matter how small or seemingly insignificant, can be a fantastic way to increase your step count throughout the day.   Make Hangouts into Workouts   The idea of hanging with friends usually brings up ideas of lounging around, perhaps sipping drinks on a patio at your favorite bar or restaurant. Often, our get togethers with friends makes us stationary and doesn't help our fitness situation. Instead of scheduling a hangout session that leaves you and your friends sitting around, plan an activity that will get everyone moving. Instead of bar hopping, opt for a long hike to a scenic spot, something that Colorado is in no short supply of. If you're feeling even more adventurous, you can collectively take a fitness class or engage in a more strenuous activity together, such as going on a long bike ride or trail run, or even taking a spin class or yoga class as a way to bond as a group. Hanging out with friends can be more than simply a good time, it can also be beneficial to your physical health.   Make Exercise and Fitness Accessible   Often, the idea of working out or burning calories can seem like a chore. Driving to the gym, going on a run, or other forms of exercise can seem difficult to engage in simply because it requires additional effort to start the process. One way of overcoming this hurdle is to create an environment in your home or office that makes it incredibly easy to start and stop a workout.   If you are at the office and have the space to do so, having a yoga mat nearby can make the prospect of quickly jumping into a session much more realistic. If you're at home and want the ability to be able to do strength training with ease, placing kettle bells in a location that you commonly frequent will make it much more simple to begin a workout routine. Any strategy you can employ to make the fitness process more available and accessible will improve the likelihood that you will actually follow through.   Game Yourself To Improve Your Physical Situation   In the age of convenience and instant gratification, it can be easy to let our fitness goals fall to the wayside and procrastinate instead of following through. One helpful tool to overcome this obstacle is to create ways to gamify your health situation. Most smartphones have the ability to track your step counts with a reasonable level of accuracy, allowing you to have a large amount of data to access. In order to properly and effectively keep yourself motivated, it can be a great idea to turn your step counts into a game. If you've reached an average of 8,000 steps one week, push yourself to do 9,000 the following week. Keeping track of your exercise habits will allow you to constantly strive to improve your situation, turning the act of exercise into a fun game where winning means becoming more physically fit and well.   If you looking to improve your physical health situation and are in need of physical therapy, or have questions about what physical therapy consists of, contact Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness today and we will be happy to assist you with your first steps towards recovery. We have an extensive team of qualified physical therapists and specialists who care deeply about their clients and go above and beyond the call of duty to provide the highest quality treatment in the industry. If you are looking for a therapist who will carefully assess your individual needs and formulate a treatment plan that is specifically tailored to your needs, Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness is your preferred choice for the physical recovery process. Thu, 12 Jul 2018 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/16124/Creative-Ways-to-Improve-Your-Fitness-Health-in-Parker http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/15428/A-Colorado-Summer-wouldn-t-be-complete-without-plenty-of-hiking-trips-to-the-mountains blog One of the best parts of living in the Centennial State is the availability of outdoor activities to keep you physically fit and connected with nature. Hiking is one of the most common activities that Coloradans engage in, which can be easily observed simply by going to a popular trailhead on the weekend. While hiking is a fantastic activity for staying physically fit, it's important to be prepared prior to scaling your favorite peak. Here are some helpful tips and exercises to be aware of from your physical therapist in parker.   What to Pack   If you're intending to go on a reasonably long hike, it's important to pack all of the essential items that will help you stay safe and prevent your afternoon affair from going sour. Without question, perhaps the most important item to pack is water. Staying hydrated while on a hike is critical to your safety, as dehydration while in the wilderness can be an absolute emergency. It's always good to err on the side of caution and to bring more water than you think you'll need. Look into things such as easy-to-pack water bladders that can hold up to a gallon of h20.   Another important item to consider prior to venturing out into the wild is a variation in clothing. While it may appear to be a warm and sunny day out, it's crucial to bring clothes for all types of weather events. Colorado weather can change dramatically in an instant, and being caught out on a trail without rain gear or proper layers can make your afternoon miserable. Look into clothing that is versatile and easy-to-pack while also providing you with the right amount of coverage.   The sun in Colorado can be intense and it's important to bring plenty of sunscreen and a sunhat to avoid getting too much UV rays. It doesn't take long to become sunburnt while on a trail, especially if it doesn't have a lot of shade. Additionally, think of items that you'll want to have with you on a long, scenic hike. This can include things such as an energy bar or other types of food to ensure you stave off the irritable feelings of hunger. You'll also certainly want to bring sunglasses to shield your eyes from excessive exposure to the sun, as constantly squinting your eyes will definitely detract from your overall experience of the trail.   Exercises to Practice Prior to Hiking   The act of hiking can be much more strenuous and physically demanding than a person might expect, especially if you're on a jaunt at higher elevations. You may think you're perfectly limber and able to handle any kind of trail, but it's always a good idea to prepare ahead of time with a number of helpful stretches to keep your body primed for the journey. Since you'll likely have some gear on your back, it's a good idea to be practice a variety of stretches that will reduce the likelihood that you will not be able to handle the hike.   Lunges are a great exercise to engage in as a way to keep your lower extremities in adequate shape and condition. Hiking requires a large amount of physical exertion from your legs, as you'll often be traversing over large rocks and consistently climbing up various obstacles present in the environment. A lunge will require the same muscles you use while pulling yourself up an elevated terrain. Be sure to practice this exercise while alternating legs to ensure that both parts of your lower body are in shape.   Another great exercise to consider for hiking are leg squats. This activity will exert force on your quadriceps muscles, which are the strongest muscles in our legs. Having quads that are strong will be a major boost while on a hike, as they will assist us in going up as well as coming back down areas of high elevation gain. Squatting down as low as you can while making sure not to let your knees go past your toes will be a great way to prevent putting too much pressure on your knees.   While having lower body strength is absolutely essential to being able to traverse difficult terrain, it's also important to remember that having core body strength is something you shouldn't neglect. For this reason, consider doing exercises that will improve your abdominal muscles. Planking can be a simple, yet powerful activity to greatly improve your core strength and will greatly boost your hiking experience.   Beyond strength-training exercises, it's also important to properly stretch prior to going on a long hike. Stretching your hamstring is important for preventing muscle strains. This can be accomplished by laying your leg on a bed or table, hinging forward toward the hip joint while keeping your knee straight. Stretching your calves to avoid excessive stress to your Achilles tendon and knees is also recommended prior to hiking. If you've been dealing with a serious injury, it's also a great idea to consult with your local Parker physical therapist prior to engaging in a serious hike. Clearly, the last thing you want to occur is to re-injure yourself and preventing the possibility of enjoying the Colorado outdoors to the fullest.   If you looking to improve your physical health situation and are in need of physical therapy, or have questions about what physical therapy consists of, contact Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness today and we will be happy to assist you with your first steps towards recovery. We have an extensive team of qualified physical therapists and specialists who care deeply about their clients and go above and beyond the call of duty to provide the highest quality treatment in the industry. If you are looking for a therapist who will carefully assess your individual needs and formulate a treatment plan that is specifically tailored to your needs, Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness is your preferred choice for the physical recovery process. Thu, 05 Jul 2018 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/15428/A-Colorado-Summer-wouldn-t-be-complete-without-plenty-of-hiking-trips-to-the-mountains http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/15262/Physical-Therapy-Can-Aid-in-Healing-Burns-and-Scars blog Burns or scarring from injuries can be a small nuisance or life-changing. Did you know using physical therapy in Parker could help you when it comes to recovering from an injury and help with the healing of scar tissue?  Take some time to learn about burns and scars to understand why they happen and key ways to be on a path to recovery. Types of Burns Each person has three layers of skin: the epidermis, dermis, and hypodermis. Your epidermis is the outer layer of skin that you can see. The dermis is the middle layer and houses hair follicles, sweat glands, and connective tissue. Your hypodermis is the innermost layer of skin, solely made of connective tissue, as well as fat. When a person comes into contact with a hot flame or object, the skin cells actually die—hence causing a burn. They can be as small as a patch of red, rough skin, or a person can experience blistering or extensive damage to the skin. It depends on the classification of the burn: first-, second- or third-degree.   First-degree: First-degree burns are the lowest injury when it comes to types of burns. This is because the outer layer, the epidermis, is the only layer that is impacted. It will cause redness, as well as inflammation. The area will become dry and hard, that may peel once the burn is starting to recover. Second-degree: Second-degree burns penetrate the skin more than first-degree into the dermis layer of the skin. This usually causes blistering and extreme redness. In some cases, even once the burn has healed, the color of the skin in the area of the burn may be forever changed. A skin graft can help restore its appearance. Third-degree: Third-degree burns are the most extreme types of burns that can happen and penetrates all three layers of the skin. They may even go in as far as the muscles and bones. The pigment of the skin may be permanently changed to a lighter or darker color, that has a texture similar to leather. In many cases, little pain is felt with third-degree burns as the burn destroys the nerve cells, eliminating the pain sensation. Skin grafting can help to reverse some of the damage. Treating a Burn Each burn can be treated differently. For first-degree burns, upon experiencing a burn, immediately soak the burn in cold water or use a cold compress for a minimum of five to 15 minutes. You can purchase a cream meant to treat burns to help with the pain and fix affected skin cells more quickly. They can heal in a couple weeks. Many first-degree burns can be treated at home, but always contact a doctor if you are concerned. Upon seeing the blistering, you will know you have experienced a second-degree burn. Be sure to run cool water over the burn for a minimum of 15 minutes, or longer. You can use creams to help with pain and recovery—but contact your doctor to ensure you are on your path to recovery. Third-degree burns can happen due to steam, chemicals, fire, or electrical outlets. You will definitely want to see a doctor as soon as possible to treat. In the interim, make sure you do not have any clothing or jewelry touching the burn. Unlike first- and second-degree burns, don't put water or cream on it. Go straight to a medical professional. Physical therapy can help you regain motion again. How Scars Happen Upon experiencing an injury to the skin, such as a cut or scrape, scarring will occur. Scarring is actually the body's response to an injury and is a sign of the healing process it is undergoing. They will arise when the second layer of the skin, the dermis, is penetrated. The body's white blood cells attack bacteria which will change the color and texture of the skin, which will create a scar. Each injury is different, causing a variety of scars. Types of scars include:   Contracture: This type of scarring occurs after one experiences a burn. The skin becomes tight and depending on what degree burn it is, the muscles and nerves can negatively be impacted as well. Keloid: Keloid scars are raised and sometimes lumpy scars that can take time to form. They occur after burns, piercing of the skin, scratches, or acne. They may grow much larger than the actual affected injury area. Hypertrophic: Hypertrophic scars are also raised, but different than keloids. They can occur due to the same reasons as keloids, too. They are usually smaller than keloids and only stay in their affected area. Acne: An unfortunate side effect of acne is scarring. When acne is so severe, and/or a person picks at the area, scarring can happen. Ultimately, they happen because the area is trying to recover.   Scar Treatments Because each scar is different, they may require different routes for healing. For minor scarring, there are creams and other ointments either from your doctor or from the store. These will provide relief and speed up healing. When the scar is itchy or painful, your doctor can prescribe special medication to help reduce the sensation, so you can better avoid the area, as touching the scar is negative during the healing process. In certain cases, such as keloid or scarring from burns, it may require skin grafting or surgery to repair the scar. Steroid injections are also a way you can reduce swelling, too. When it comes to recovering from injuries that have caused burning and/or scarring, Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness can help. Our team will use a variety of techniques, such as the Graston technique and cupping to help you regain motion and reduce pain. By using this combination treatment, it will help speed up your body's natural reaction to heal. No matter where you are, there is a Peak office near you. Review our list of locations and contact Peak PT and Wellness today to be on your way to a speedy recovery! Wed, 20 Jun 2018 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/15262/Physical-Therapy-Can-Aid-in-Healing-Burns-and-Scars http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/15216/Fitness-Trends-in-2018-to-Stay-Young-in-Parker--CO blog Staying healthy and physically fit is a top priority for individuals seeking to sustain an optimum level of wellness in their life. A major component of this equation is the act of physically exerting your body to improve your overall physical health, both through cardiovascular activity as well as strength training your muscles. There are a variety of exercises and activities that have become more common in recent years, and if you are interested in getting your body into peak physical shape in Denver, here are a few of the trends to be aware of in 2018. The Importance of a Personal Trainer Everyone knows that in order to get into shape, they need to move their body and exert themselves in order to improve their physical health. Often this means going to the gym and doing random exercises to raise one's heart rate or to strengthen one's muscles. While this is obviously a better situation than remaining sedentary, this is not always the most ideal way to exercise. Each individual has their own set of specific and unique activities that they are involved in, ones that require a certain type of strength training and conditioning. A personal trainer can help a person fine tune their exercises by providing the most appropriate types of workouts that will be most beneficial for whatever is needed. For instance, a person that enjoys playing basketball will need different types of workout regimens from someone who is rock climbing or running. A personal trainer will be able to observe and assess if you are doing the exercise correctly and can provide real-time feedback that will help you properly perform the activity. Additionally, it can be difficult to motivate oneself to consistently workout, as this activity is often down the list on a person's list of priorities. By hiring a personal trainer, you will also receive an added degree of motivation to keep you accountable and on the right track towards improving your physical situation. High Intensity Interval Training In recent years, the popularity of high intensity interval training (HIIT) has grown due to its effectiveness. HIIT is a cardio workout session that is designed in short bursts of incredible difficult work. Often, cardio involves running or biking for a long period of time at a modest pace, one that will get the heart rate up but won't provide you with the level of intensity that HIIT will do. There have been plenty of scientific studies that have shown how working your hardest is a critical component to increasing your metabolism as well as shedding the pounds and decreasing the percentage of body fat that you carry. While exercise of all kinds is obviously beneficial and better than nothing, higher intensity exercise will burn more fat and improve a person's endurance. A crucial factor in high intensity interval training is actually the resting period in between intervals. Resting periods are incredibly important to this type of exercise, as your body needs time to recover. Switching between high-intensity and low-intensity has show to allow your body to adapt between states. A common example of HIIT can be seen in the rising popularity of spin classes, a cycling class that utilizes bursts of high-intensity cardio workouts as a core component. Group Training Something that is becoming increasingly more popular in recent years is the trend of group training classes. These are given on a wide range of exercises and functional training activities in an effort to collectively improve the health of the individuals enrolled in the course. Similar to hiring a personal trainer, the act of taking a group training course can be an incredibly beneficial act to engage in. Group exercises have the effect of motivating all individuals involved to get moving, as the act of moving in a group can be a positive aspect of for those who need an extra push. Learning in a group setting can also be a less intimidating activity for those just starting out in their fitness journey. Group training programs are designed with all skill levels in mind, and many cater to those who are beginners. Exercise Programs for the Older Generation Often, physical exercise is primarily associated with a younger and more youthful sector of the population, but the reality is that exercise among older adults is a growing part of the fitness industry. As a result, classes are being designed and implemented specifically with this particular age group in mind, making the process of working out for older individuals a much more accessible process. The older generation of adults is recommended to engage in some form of physical activity as a way to ensure independence is maintained and overall quality of life does not suffer. As the baby boomers continue to age, this sector of physical fitness is sure to expand, as the needs to this large age group will be made much more obvious as the years go on. For individuals who are in need of less intense and strenuous exercises, there are a number of exercise routines and activities a person can engage in. Swimming, yoga, and pilates are all exercises that can be a great fit for individuals looking to exert themselves without overdoing it. If you looking to improve your physical health situation and are in need of physical therapy, or have questions about what physical therapy consists of, contact Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness today and we will be happy to assist you with your first steps towards recovery. We have an extensive team of qualified physical therapists and specialists who care deeply about their clients and go above and beyond the call of duty to provide the highest quality treatment in the industry. If you are looking for a therapist who will carefully assess your individual needs and formulate a treatment plan that is specifically tailored to your needs, Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness is your preferred choice for the physical recovery process. Wed, 13 Jun 2018 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/15216/Fitness-Trends-in-2018-to-Stay-Young-in-Parker--CO http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/15140/Guide-to-Strength-TRX-Training-in-Denver---Peak-Physical-Therapy---Wellness blog One of the top ways you can perform better as an athlete or even just become a healthier person is to strength train. On average, it is recommended by the Department of Health and Human Services to get 150 minutes of exercise in per week. For many, they solely focus on cardio, looking past the several short and long-term benefits of strength training. Whether you know very little about strength training or are looking for ways to improve, use these tips and explore TRX training in Denver. Basics of Strength Training Strength training is crucial for muscle toning and becoming stronger and healthier. Even those with weight to lose and focusing on cardio should incorporate strength training into their weekly exercise routine to help shed the pounds. Through a series of exercises, strength training forces the muscles to contract. There is a misconception out there that strength training is solely to build muscle, hence an increase in weight. If you would like to gain weight, there are methods of doing so, but that is not a definite end result. In fact, when one strength trains, continues to burn calories even after your workout is over. In many cases, it is a metabolism booster.   At the end of the day, you get to choose what works best for you and can tailor your routine towards your goals. For instance, you can lose weight, tone, bulk up or just become a stronger person. However, it is important to at least do some strength training to help maintain your lean muscle mass. As you age, lean muscle mass will deteriorate, which can lead to weight gain. By incorporating strength training into your routine, you will retain that lean mass. Benefits When it comes to the benefits of strength training, they are nearly endless. First and foremost, it is excellent for your health. Not only will strength training help you tone your muscles and retain lean muscle mass but will keep your bones strong as well. This reduces the risk of osteoporosis later in life. In addition, strength training is beneficial in the following ways:   Improve joints: By incorporating strength training, your joints will continue to move better, reducing the risk of problems down the road. You will also see more flexibility in your range of motion, which will help protect you from injuries. Lower health risks: When adding in strength training into a routine, it will help protect you from heart disease, cancer, and high blood pressure. It may also help boost your immune system as well. Increase mind power: Studies have shown that weight lifting can actually help you think more clearly and better. It can also help conquer stress, anxiety, and depression because of the endorphins that are released. Quick results: You may notice your work lifting weights within weeks to a month Methods To help you define which type of strength training is best for you, it depends on what you are looking to accomplish. When you take on one of these methods a couple of times per week, for 20 to 30 minutes, you will begin to see results within weeks. Many find success sprinkling out their strength training throughout the week. As you read through, make sure you understand the definition of reps and sets.   Increase Strength and/or Lose Weight: To increase your strength through weight lifting, use lighter weights and do bursts of quick repetitions (or commonly referred to as "reps") with a few minutes of rest in between each set. Aim to have up to five sets per targeted area. This is also commonly used for weight loss. Bulk Up: If you are looking to increase the size of your muscles, use light weights in long sets of reps in multiple sets. Enhance Endurance: Are you looking to use your strength for long periods of time? Choose an area, such as the arms, legs, etc., and complete several reps in that area, two to three times.   Ways to Strength Train When it comes to your strength training, it can be done at the gym or at home. In fact, you do not need to spend any money at all to begin strength training. The different ways to train include:   Machines: When many people think of strength training, they think of the machines at the gym. These are great for all types of strength trainers as they help you with form and you can easily change the weight amount to find the perfect one. Resistance training: This type of training uses bands, weights, body weights or other objects and complete movements against your body. Free weights: Dumbbells or barbells are used to help with strength training. They are great if you have learned proper form, or you can work with a trainer or physical therapist to learn proper form. Body weight: If you are looking to lose on a budget, or like the challenge of working on your own, use your own body weight for strength training! This is through exercises such as sit-ups, pushups, squats, etc. Incorporating TRX Training TRX training, also known as suspension training, is another great way to increase strength. Through using a series of bands for resistance, you will increase your overall strength and flexibility. This is done using your own weight, along with the bands, working against gravity. You will also notice great improvements in your core strength. No matter what your experience level is when it comes to working out, TRX training is for everyone. From there, you will be on your way to tone your body! A great way to get started with TRX training, or to learn what type of strength training is best for you, schedule an appointment with Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness. Our team of experts will help you define your goals, what types of exercises you should do, and how often you should do them. This is your top way to get the results you are looking to achieve. Find the nearest location to you and contact Peak PT and Wellness today! Wed, 30 May 2018 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/15140/Guide-to-Strength-TRX-Training-in-Denver---Peak-Physical-Therapy---Wellness http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/15093/Strategies-That-Can-Help-Reduce-Back-and-Neck-Pain-from-Your-Physical-Therapist-in-Parker blog One of the most common issues that physical therapy is used to treat is pain resulting from neck and back issues. It's no secret that neck and back pain can become a debilitating issue, one that can lead to a whole host of other health concerns. An excessive amount of back and neck pain is extremely difficult to ignore for an individual in their daily life. If you've ever suffered from this type of discomfort, you are acutely aware of just how painful and inconvenient this condition can be. There is hope, however, and it comes in the form of an effective physical therapy treatment plan. If you need to address this critical issue, here are some of the ways in which a person can improve their back and neck pain from their physical therapist in Parker. Ways to Reduce Neck Pain Chronic neck pain is a very common condition among Americans, as more than 25 percent of individuals in the United States say they suffer from persistent neck pain, according to the American Osteopathic Association. Chronic neck pain can dramatically decrease a person's quality of life and can make things incredibly difficult in terms of movement. Neck pain that persists can also lead to additional complications, such as headaches and upper back pain. Often, individuals will overcompensate when neck pain is present, causing further issues in other areas of their body. This is why treating chronic neck pain is absolutely essential if a person is to properly address their health and reduce the amount of suffering in their day-to-day life. If you recognize that you have an issue, it is always best to treat the issue as soon as possible so the problem doesn't compound and inevitably become worse over time. 1. Apply a Cold Pack It may not seem like that big of a deal, but using a cold pack to treat neck pain can be an effective strategy in reducing the amount of pain that a person is experiencing. By applying a cold pack to the affected area, you will be helping to decrease irritation as well as inflammation, two critical components in the neck-pain equation. A cold pack will reduce the amount of inflammation in your joints as well as in the muscles, two of the areas that can often create the most amount of discomfort when it comes to neck pain. 2. Rest If you are dealing with persistent and chronic neck pain, an important aspect of recovery can be something as simple as rest. Sure, you may be an active individual with a full schedule of activities on your docket that you absolutely do not want to miss out on, but if you are dealing with neck pain this can often make the situation much worse. Knowing your limits and when you need to rest your body can be essential on the road to reducing pain. The last thing you want to have happen is to have a situation where your pain gets worse due to not taking it easy at the right time. 3. Physical Therapy One of the best strategies for tackling your neck pain can be to see your local physical therapist. These highly-trained and knowledgeable individuals have a wealth of information regarding how the body operates and the kinds of things a person needs to do in order to become pain-free yet again. Physical therapy is a process that consists of appropriate stretches and exercises that a person can undertake on their own time. It also includes a degree of hands-on treatment that will help to loosen tight muscles and affected joints. This degree of information and knowledge can be invaluable in the fight to reduce neck pain, and seeking out a qualified and competent physical therapist can make all of the difference on your path to being pain-free once again. Strategies for Reducing Back Pain Let's be honest: chronic back pain can be a miserable condition that can, over time, become increasingly painful an difficult to deal with. In fact, chronic lower back pain, in particular, is often cited as one of the most common medical conditions in the world. Truly, the act of dealing with persistent and chronic back pain is far from a joyful experience and is one that should be avoided at all costs. However, there are times when a person cannot avoid dealing with back pain. Either due to an accident or other factors out of an individual's control, chronic back pain can rear its ugly head and create havoc in a person's life. As a result, it is important to take the necessary steps to reduce back pain in order to regain a sense of normalcy once more. 1. Stretch Tightness in all areas of your body can lead to back issues if you aren't careful. Consistent stretching is one strategy that is an effective method of reducing and limiting back pain. Holding a stretch for an extended period of time can be a great way of reducing potential back issues. 2. Lost Weight While this can seem like an impossible task at times, it should be kept in mind that losing excess body fat is a huge factor in reducing your risk for persistent back pain issues. Research has shown a direct correlation between obesity and chronic back pain, as your body can become stressed due to having to carry excessive weight. Increasing your activity level will not only improve many areas of your health but can also lighten the amount of back pain you are experiencing. 3. Physical Therapy Receiving professional attention in the form of physical therapy can often be the most effective approach to treating back pain. A physical therapist can directly treat the affected areas without the use of surgery or other invasive methods. By providing you with the right treatment plan to tackle this nagging issue, you will be on your way to dramatically reducing your back pain and regain your life back. If you are experiencing neck or back pain and are tired of struggling with this issue, contact Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness today. We are dedicated to serving our clients and do whatever is necessary to ensure that a patient leaves in a better state than when they started treatment. Call us today at our Parker office at 303-840-7325. Wed, 23 May 2018 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/15093/Strategies-That-Can-Help-Reduce-Back-and-Neck-Pain-from-Your-Physical-Therapist-in-Parker http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/15045/The-Benefits-of-Physical-Therapy-for-an-Athlete-in-Denver blog Active athletes are at risk of injury in many ways. Depending on the type of sport that is involved, an athlete can suffer from any number of conditions that can be detrimental to their ability to perform in a given activity or sport. The price paid for an untreated injury can be steep in the long term, as injuries can compound over time and create a scenario that becomes more difficult to treat as time goes on. As a result, it can be critical for an athlete to seek treatment as soon as possible in order to remediate the possibility that they will deal with unfavorable effects. Physical therapy can be an essential component in the recovery process. Here are a few of the reasons why an athlete in Denver should seriously consider receiving physical therapy. Prevent Injury So you haven't had an injury yet in your given sport and you feel relatively confident in your ability to minimize risk and prevent any serious incident from occurring. While it is great to feel like you are capable at reducing injury potential, the possibility of an injury occurring is always there, especially if you are involved in an activity that involves a high amount of risk or stress to your body. Receiving physical therapy prior to injuring any portion of your body can be an effective and efficient way of reducing the potential for any injury from occurring. By receiving physical therapy, you will increase your protection against various injuries. A competent physical therapist will be able to do a properly injury risk assessment and educate you on the various stretches and activities you can do in order to reduce the possibility of becoming injured (injury risk assessment). A therapist can also suggest exercises and stretches that are specific to your type of activity, which can aid in reducing the possibility of injuries from occurring.  Recovery from a Sports-Related Injury If you've experienced some level of injury due to your involvement in a particular sport, seeking treatment from a qualified physical therapist can be extremely beneficial in your recovery process. Healing properly after an injury takes place is very important to an athlete being able to regain their form and not suffer any lingering effects from the injury. An efficient recovery process is a necessity in regards to being able to get back onto the field at full-strength, and it important to not underestimate the importance of receiving physical therapy. Often, a sports injury can be serious enough to include the possibility of surgery and medications in regards to the recovery process. This is certainly not ideal and should be avoided if possible. Dependency on a pain medication can lead to a serious addiction that can further compound the effects of an injury, and invasive surgery is certainly not something an athlete wants to have to deal with.  A good physical therapist will be able to show an athlete a variety of techniques that will be useful in dealing with the effects of any given injury. PT can help to reduce the pain of an injury through the use of appropriate movement strategies and can help to increase the flow of blood as a way to encourage and assist in the healing process. If you are recovering from an injury, chances are your mobility will be severely decreased. This can lead to a reduction in muscle strength as time goes on, which can be detrimental to your athletic abilities once you are able to begin moving again. Your physical therapist will be able to demonstrate techniques that help to maintain and build muscle during the recovery process. Improve Performance If you are involved in a highly active sport that requires a variety of movements which can be stressful to your body, you will want to have the ability to move in the most efficient and least stressful way possible for your body. Under careful observation, a physical therapist will be able to observe your movement and determine the ways in which you are moving that are beneficial and detrimental to the particular activity you are involved in. While it is easy to believe we are completely capable and competent in the sport we are involved in, often times we overlook various aspects of our movement that can lead to us damaging something down the road. In the moment, a given movement may not seem very damaging to our body but over time it can begin to wear down a particular area of our body, eventually leading to an injury. A physical therapist will be able to provide solutions to remediate any potential issues that they are able to observe in regards to your movements, thus reducing the possibility that you will injure anything in the future. Avoid Surgery One of the worst outcomes that can result from a sports-related injury is to have a doctor or surgeon tell you that you require surgery. This can be a devastating thing to hear, as surgery can be invasive and significantly lengthen the amount of time it will take for an individual to recover from a given injury. By receiving proper physical therapy treatments, you will dramatically reduce the possibility that surgery will be required. While not every injury can be treated using physical therapy, there are a number of injuries that physical therapy can handle that will reduce the need for surgery.  If you are in need of physical therapy or have questions about what physical therapy consists of, contact Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness today and we will be happy to assist you with your first steps towards recovery. We have an extensive team of qualified physical therapists and specialists who care deeply about their clients and go above and beyond the call of duty to provide the highest quality treatment in the industry. If you are looking for a therapist who will carefully assess your individual needs and formulate a treatment plan that is specifically tailored to your needs, Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness is your preferred choice for the physical recovery process. Wed, 16 May 2018 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/15045/The-Benefits-of-Physical-Therapy-for-an-Athlete-in-Denver http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/15007/Top-Work-Related-Injuries-and-Tips-from-Parker-Physical-Therapy-to-Avoid-Them blog The workplace is where people on average spend eight hours of their day. Whether you have a labor-intensive job or one in an office, dangers are everywhere. Each has possible situations that can lead to an injury. As an employee, it is best to ensure you are using the proper form and technique at your job. You should also know proper safety protocols and enforce them throughout your day. Use these tips from Parker physical therapy to ensure your safety at work. Slips and Falls Workplace slips and falls can account for 10 to 15 percent of work-related injuries each year. Some of these falls create injuries while others can actually be life-threatening. One of the most common reasons for slips and falls is water or slippery substances that have not been cleaned. Other reasons can include improper lighting, clutter or cords in walkways, or improper shoes. The best way to ensure you and fellow employees stay safe in the workplace is to keep walkways and workspaces clean of any debris or clutter. This can be anything from boxes and cords to drawers and work supplies. All areas must be well lit for workers to see where they are going and working. Anti-slip mats are great to keep in workspaces such as restaurants or warehouses. These can also help reduce fatigue for those who are on their feet throughout the day. Proper anti-slip shoes are also important in environments where water or other liquids are more likely to be on the floor. Be sure those spills are cleaned as quickly as possible. Machine Misuse or Malfunction Millions of workers are injured each year to machine malfunction or misuse. Common injuries include electrocution, bodily injuries such as getting a body part caught in a machine or scrapes, cuts, and slices due to improper workplace protection. Also, improper or broken safeguards can lead to injury as well. Ensure you are safe in the workplace by knowing the rules and protocols for the machinery you use. Proper safeguards should be in working condition. If not, notify the appropriate persons immediately to ensure they are fixed. It is also important to know proper posture and form when standing and handling your machine, as repetition in improper form can lead to injury. When handling machines, you must use your protective gear. This includes hard hats, glasses, gloves, suits or shoes. Hazardous Materials Injuries due to hazardous materials or chemicals in the workplace can be detrimental. When exposed to dangerous chemicals, employees can experience burns or on internal injuries. Depending on the hazardous item, internal or external injuries occur. In result, a person may experience nausea or vomiting, fevers, heart issues, burning eyes, and more. Some work environments may also expose a person to asbestos. It is important to know what is asbestos to ensure you do not come into contact with it, and how to properly protect yourself if you think you will. Since coming into contact with hazardous materials can have detrimental lifelong effects, always follow proper protocol when around items. If you experience a chemical burn, call 911 or go to a hospital immediately. In the meantime, for most chemical burns put cool water over on the injury but ensure it is only on the affected area. It is possible for chemicals to travel and make the injury even worse. Do this for several minutes (10 to 20). Not all chemical burns are alike, so it is important to be knowledgeable about the items you are working with. Sprains and Strains It may come as no surprise that sprains and strains are the most common workplace injury. Sprains are when ligaments are stretched or torn, and strains are when muscles or tendons are stretched or torn. Ligaments are the tissues that connect bones or joints. While a majority of these injuries happen in one's back, it is also common in knees, shoulders, and feet. Common reasons for these injuries include poor workplace posture, repetitive motions or force. Avoid workplace strains and sprains by using proper form at all times. Ergonomics are important, which is a safe and efficient environment. Not only will this make the workplace easier to work in but will also reduce injury. Overexerting oneself is also another common reason for sprains and strains. Avoid pushing yourself too hard or improperly when it comes to pulling, lifting or carrying items. Repetitive Processes Repetitive motions are another leading contributor to the overall number of workplace injuries. Each year, millions experience repetition-related injuries. They occur when a person is in the same form repeating the same motions day in and day out. When a person uses the same body part frequently, the area can become overused and injuries are more likely. It can happen from using a machine throughout a day or sitting at a desk and working at a computer. Avoid repetition injuries by mixing up your routine. First and foremost, practice stretching. This will help to strengthen the area. Next, ensure you have proper form and posture. A person is more likely to become injured when performing repetitious activities with poor form. When working at a desk, ensure you have an ergonomic workspace. This can include having a chair that aids in proper posture and ensuring your arms are supported so you do not hurt your shoulders. Monitors should be an arms-length away at eye level. If you use a phone throughout the day, consider a wireless headset so you do not tilt your head to the side. Also, be sure to take breaks. This will help reduce eye strain and help you avoid repetition-related injuries. When it comes to workplace injuries, Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness has proactive and reactive services to ensure your health and safety. We can work with you to help you avoid injuries and work with you on a speedy recovery after one. Take advantage of our pre-employment screening to have a review of a workplace and contact us to see how we can assist. Our team of experts will help you learn proper form and posture to help you work more efficiently and pain-free. Wed, 09 May 2018 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/15007/Top-Work-Related-Injuries-and-Tips-from-Parker-Physical-Therapy-to-Avoid-Them http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/14945/Tips-for-Becoming-a-Better-Athlete-Including-Kinesio-Taping-by-Denver-Physical-Therapy blog Are you looking for ways to become a better athlete? From running and weightlifting, to properly fueling, there are always areas athletes can take things to the next level. Explore tips to become a better athlete and how Kinesio taping by Denver Physical Therapy can help.   Eating as an Athlete Diet plays a pivotal role in how you perform as an athlete. When you are working out for extended periods of time, you need to make sure you have enough energy to get through the workout. Plus, once your workout or game is over, you will need to quickly refuel. When evaluating what to eat, you must consider the three macronutrients: Carbs, fats, and proteins. Carbohydrates: There is a saying out there that carbohydrates, or "carbs," are bad for you. False! In fact, your body needs them pre- and post-workout. Good carbs, which are unrefined, such as bananas, brown rice, milk or starchy vegetables, will help you push through your workout and recover after. Avoid sugary, processed carbs such as white bread or sweets. So how does it all work? Carbs are broken down into glucose, which the muscles convert to energy and store. Your body will use that energy when you need it. It is beneficial to be strategic with your carbs and eat them a few hours before a workout. Everyone is different, so test around to find a time to eat good carbs that will help you power through your workouts. Fats: Like carbs, fats are beneficial to becoming a successful athlete. The body needs omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids to function, which you can get through healthy fats. Healthy fats are foods like avocados, nuts, eggs, fish or olive oil. Avoid saturated and trans fats. These foods will boost your energy, reduce inflammation and lower cholesterol. Healthy fats are especially helpful to be consumed with carbs. Together, the duo will help you reach your goals. Protein: When protein is consumed, it also helps an athlete perform better. It is made of amino acids, which the body does not produce, hence why it is beneficial to consume them. By eating protein before a workout, it will help the body recover more quickly, increase strength, and performance. If you are looking to strengthen, but not bulk up, don't worry. You should still consume protein before your workout. It takes a strategy to bulk up from protein. Properly Hydrating As an athlete, it is important to drink plenty of water. Hydration is crucial for performance and skill, so when hydrating, plain ol' water is best, but you can incorporate other healthy beverages in too. Avoid sugary or sweet drinks and smoothies. You can drink beverages with electrolytes which aid in performance and recovery but avoid ones that have a lot of sugar. When it comes to hydration tips for better athletic performance, water will keep your joints lubricated, reduces food cravings, assist with digestion and will even help you regulate your body temperature. Wondering about hydrating before, during, and after a game or workout? Keep these tips in mind: Drink a couple of bottles of water a couple hours before your workout to get into your system—try to drink them throughout the time and not all at once During your workout, drink at least a half of a bottle of water Immediately after your workout, finish the rest of the bottle Cardio and Strength Training Cardio and strength training each have their benefits. To advance as an athlete, it is beneficial to incorporate both into your routine. Cardio is your ticket to burning a large number of calories more quickly if you are looking to lose weight. On average, health experts advise everyone get at least 20 minutes of moderate cardio in five times per week. When incorporating cardio into your fitness routine, you will strengthen your body and reduce your risk for some health issues, reduce stress, have more energy, help your skin, and you will even sleep better! If you are currently a runner and are looking for ways to increase your endurance, don't expect to be an expert overnight. Start in groups and keep a steady pace. Avoid sprinting and losing your energy. As you work to improve your running skills, visit your local physical therapist for a running analysis. Strength training is crucial to add to your workout routine, too. While cardio helps you burn calories fast in the moment, strength training works over time. This will help you burn calories after your workout is over and you will build muscle—increasing your strength. Don't worry, it will not make you bulk up. You will become more tone and notice a boost in energy. Benefits of Kinesio Taping for Athletes One way athletes are improving their routines is through Kinesio tape. Kinesio tape is a latex-free, elastic tape that athletes apply to various areas with muscle. They can be used for anyone, with or without injuries. When applied, they help with inflammation or pain. The tape slightly lifts the skin, hence allowing blood flow and reducing pressure. This helps athletes perform and recover better. For those with injuries or bruises, Kinesio tape will speed up recovery times. When in place, they will not be impacted and difficult to move—you can perform as usual. Also, because they help to increase blood flow, many notice an enhanced range of motion and have a better move. Applying Kinesio tape is easy—just put it in place over the muscle you choose. It is also resistant to water and can be used for swimmers. If wondering how to apply, this is something your local physical therapist can assist with. As you work to become a better and stronger athlete, Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness has you covered. We have a variety of services that will help your performance as an athlete. We have eight convenient locations, allowing you to visit us at an office near you. To get started, contact Peak PT & Wellness today and schedule your appointment. Wed, 02 May 2018 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/14945/Tips-for-Becoming-a-Better-Athlete-Including-Kinesio-Taping-by-Denver-Physical-Therapy http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/14868/Women-s-Health-in-Parker--Using-a-Physical-Therapist-for-Painful-Bladder-Syndrome blog Are you a female that experiences excessive urination throughout the day, pelvic pain or pressure or blood in your urine? You may be one of the 12 percent of women suffering from interstitial cystitis, which is known as painful bladder syndrome. Thankfully, you are not alone and there are ways to alleviate symptoms. As you navigate this issue, learn what painful bladder syndrome is, top signs and symptoms, potential causes, diagnosing, treatments, and how using a specialist for women's health in Parker can help. About the Bladder and Painful Bladder Syndrome? Interstitial cystitis, or painful bladder syndrome, is a condition that affects the pelvic area primarily in women but can happen in men, too. Those who have this condition experience chronic pain in the bladder and entire pelvic area. The bladder is a sac within the pelvic region, made of a muscle. It is a small organ that collects the urine the body excretes. In a normal, healthy person (without symptoms of painful bladder syndrome), the bladder can store up to two cups of urine. The fuller the bladder gets, the higher the sensation a person will have to urinate. Urine is produced through the consumption of foods and liquids, medications or medical conditions. However, the bladder is one piece of a larger picture. It is helpful to learn about the urinary tract and how it works to see how the process works. The color of your urine will tell you a lot about your health. Typically, clear, or light to medium shades of yellow is the sign of normal urine. The lighter the color, the better hydrated you are. Drink at least 64 ounces of water or more throughout the day to help. On average, a normal, healthy person will urinate up to eight times in one day. If your urine is a dark yellow or brown, it is a tell-tale sign of dehydration or possibly issues with your liver. These aren't the only two colors for urine—vitamins, medications, foods, or the consumption of certain things can cause your urine to be orange, blue or even green. The texture can also change if there are issues. If your urine seems foamy, it could be a sign that you have a problem with your kidneys and should speak to a doctor as soon as possible. Signs and Symptoms There are a few key symptoms common to those suffering from painful bladder syndrome. These symptoms can include: Pelvic or abdominal pain Bladder pain Painful urination (i.e. burning sensation) Frequent urination (i.e. multiple times an hour throughout the day) and/or having the sensation to urinate all of the time Pressure or tenderness within the pelvic area Pain in the pelvic floor muscles as well as lower back or abdomen Painful intercourse Ulcers or sores Blood in urine If you notice any of these symptoms and they do not go away, it is important to speak with your doctor. The key to seeking relief is to reach out to solve the problem. Potential Causes As of now, the exact cause of painful bladder syndrome is unknown. Some believe it is an autoimmune disease where the body mistakes itself for an invader and tries to fight itself off. It can also happen due to irritation of the bladder wall, or if the wall has scarring. Despite not having an exact cause, there are a few reasons that doctors and researchers believe painful bladder syndrome occurs or have pinpointed connections. First is a bladder infection. A bladder infection is an infection of the urinary tract. In a majority of cases, it occurs due to bacteria in the urethra—specifically E. coli. They are commonly treated using antibiotics. That's not all. Painful bladder syndrome may actually be genetic. If one of your parents or someone in your family suffers from this condition, it is possible that it may have been passed down to you—and you to a child. Diagnosing Since there is not an exact cause that doctors have found, they may not diagnose as painful bladder syndrome right away. However, there are a few things they will do to see what the problem is. One of those is giving you a urine analysis. By urinating in a cup, they will be able to check your urine for bad bacteria, blood or puss. If any of these are found positive, you may have an infection. In addition, they can also run a urine culture to see what type of bacteria is in your system. They can also delve into the issue further in more serious cases by examining your urethra with a camera. If they need to test the area, they can take a tissue sample to biopsy. It is also common for the dye to be used in the bladder to see the pattern of the urine flow. Your doctor may also rule out kidney stones or tumors by an ultrasound, MRI or CT scan. From here, your doctor will take what they have learned and may diagnose you with painful bladder syndrome. Treatments If you have a bacterial infection that aids your painful bladder syndrome, your doctor will put you on an antibiotic to help rid your body of the problem. In addition, they may recommend changing your diet, reduce stress and maintain a healthy level of physical activity. If you are a smoker, they will ask you to stop. Pelvic Floor Rehabilitation through Physical Therapy Did you know that one of the treatment methods for painful bladder syndrome and other pelvic floor problems is physical therapy? Your local physical therapist can work with you to help strengthen your pelvic floor. Through a series of specialized exercises, they will help you to loosen tight pelvic muscles that will ease some of your symptoms. This is extremely beneficial to regain control and improve men and women's health. When it comes to assisting you with your pelvic plan and painful bladder syndrome, Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness will help. Our team will go over with you a variety of strengthening exercises. Schedule your appointment today and contact a Peak PT & Wellness near you. Wed, 25 Apr 2018 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/14868/Women-s-Health-in-Parker--Using-a-Physical-Therapist-for-Painful-Bladder-Syndrome http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/14800/Top-Misconceptions-About-Physical-Therapy-in-Denver blog As Denver physical therapy gains in both respect and popularity, there are still plenty of misconceptions about it. Many people just don't understand exactly what physical therapists do, what type of certification they need, where they practice, and how different types of physical therapy can vary. Others simply see physical therapists as glorified personal trainers or massage therapists because they don't realize that there are vigorous education requirements, licensing, and specializations that go along with the field. Others believe that physical therapy only comes into play after undergoing a serious injury or having some kind of major surgery. The following are some of the most common misconceptions people have about physical therapy. Any Healthcare Professional Can Practice Physical Therapy False. Many people don't realize that physical therapy must be performed by a licensed physical therapist. Physical therapists must have a license, and there are almost always additional certifications needed for specialties such as manual therapy, vestibular therapy, pelvic floor treatment, and others. Physical Therapists Work in the Hospital Setting Only False. When most people think of physical therapy, they might be picturing a person in a white uniform conducting therapeutic exercises with a person lying down in a hospital setting. There is much more to physical therapy than that, including functional activities that are conducted in a variety of locations. Some physical therapists do work in hospitals, but others work in offices, make house calls, see patients in nursing homes, visit rehabilitation centers, and a variety of other places. Basically, physical therapists work in virtually every healthcare environment. There is Just One Type of Physical Therapy Offered False. This couldn't be further from the truth. Just as you can find physical therapists in many different settings, they use different types of therapies depending on many factors, including the type of patient and the condition of the patient. WebMD has a good article on the various types of physical therapy available where you can get more information on the various specialties. You Cannot See a Physical Therapist Until You See Your Doctor and Get a Referral False. This might be true in some areas, but overall, people do not need a referral from their doctor to see a physical therapist. In many cases, patients don't see their doctor at all; the physical therapist diagnosis the problem, recommends treatment, provides treatment, and discharges the patient. This provides an advantage for patients who would like to see a physical therapist of their own choosing. Patients Should Experience a Lot of Pain and Discomfort Before It Is "Worth It" to See a Physical Therapist False. For some people, they think physical therapy is only for patients who are rehabbing after surgery or a major injury. But the truth is, coming to the physical therapist at the first sign of pain is one way to get the best results. It's best to prevent the pain from getting worse by early intervention rather than waiting until the pain is so bad, patients are experiencing serious discomfort. It's particularly important for those who are pursuing athletic activities to get treatment sooner rather than later. If you are a runner experiencing discomfort that it preventing you from logging the miles you'd like, find out more about our running analysis and how it can help improve your running and prevent injuries. Physical Therapy Offers Just One Approach to Healing Patients False. It might come as a surprise to many people to understand that physical therapy often goes along with other treatments, including massage and manual therapy. Your physical therapist will develop a treatment plan that includes therapeutic exercise and other modalities. This makes movement even more effective. Physical Therapy Is Only Used After Patients Have Had Some Kind of Surgical Procedure False. In fact, physical therapy is often prescribed prior to surgery because it might mean surgery isn't necessary at all. The surgery first, physical therapy second mindset is actually counterproductive. Physical therapy has proven over and over to be as effective as surgery—or even more effective—for certain musculoskeletal conditions. Physical Therapy Has to Be Painful if It Is Going to Be Effective False. There is a joke among some patients that "PT" means "pain and torture," but this is misleading. Sometimes when people have suffered an injury, there can be pain associated with rehabbing that part of the body. But in and of itself, physical therapy is generally not painful. Diet, Exercise, and Lifestyle Have Nothing to Do With How Successful Physical Therapy Is False. Unfortunately, there is no way around the importance of exercising and eating right if you want your physical therapy to be successful. Habits such as smoking and being overweight can significantly impede physical therapy progress. Just as you can't out-exercise a bad diet, you can't use physical therapy to compensate for an unhealthy lifestyle. In many cases, patients find out the hard way that physical therapy isn't effective until they clean up their lifestyles and start adopting good healthy habits. As the field of physical therapy continues to grow, it's important that patients gain a more accurate understanding of this burgeoning specialty. If you have questions, we invite you to give us a call. Peak Physical Therapy has been in business for more than two decades. We believe our success directly correlates with the lasting results our patients enjoy. We are confident in our team of friendly and knowledgeable therapists and their commitment to improving how much you can enjoy your daily life. Find out about Denver physical therapy and whether it—or any of our other services—will help you. We offer TMJ treatment, dry needling, hand therapy, injury risk assessment, kinesio taping, manual therapy, running analysis, and TRX training among others. With offices throughout the Denver metro area, including south Denver, Highlands Ranch, Lowry, Parker, Aurora, and Englewood, you can be sure that one is conveniently located near you. We look forward to working with you and helping you return to a normal, pain-free lifestyle! Call us today! Wed, 18 Apr 2018 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/14800/Top-Misconceptions-About-Physical-Therapy-in-Denver http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/14553/Why-Computers-Are-Increasing-the-Need-for-Physical-Therapy-in-Parker--CO blog When people see us complaining of neck, upper back, or arm pain, one of things we will ask is if they have suffered some type of injury. In today's age of rampant computer use, it comes as no surprise when most of these people are at the computer at least forty hours per week. It doesn't take long to figure out that computer use has triggered problems in these people, and physical therapy in Parker, CO is likely the only way to resolve their pain issues. It's no secret that we as a country have started leading lives that are more and more sedentary, and this is especially true in the workplace. Some health experts are actually calling "sitting" the new "smoking" because its detrimental effects are so severe when it comes to our health. Most of us are sitting at a computer for many hours, day in and day out. This may seem like an occupational injury, but unfortunately, it's something we have no choice but to deal with since our livelihoods depend on it. If you find yourself dealing with chronic discomfort because you are staring at a computer all day, try these tips from Time magazine for staying healthy despite spending umpteen hours sitting. How Computers Cause Problems in the First Place Posture problems result in injury-like symptoms over time. There is no single event that has occurred, such as what might happen if you were in a car accident. These computer "injuries" occur over a long period of time. Tissue in the affected areas begin to wear down, setting problems into motion. How does this happen? People start to rely on their internal stability structures to hold them upright when they should be using their muscles. Sitting for long periods of time relaxes the muscles, so instead, people sitting at the computer are using ligaments, discs, and cartilage to stay upright and battle gravity. Over time, these tissues start to break apart, causing areas of damage that translates into aches and pains that don't heal. If the muscles were being used the way they are supposed to be, they would break down and repair—and get stronger. (If you are a weightlifter, you know how this works!) The tissues of the body don't repair themselves the same way muscles do, so the problems for people just continue to get worse. Computers are not going away, and people will continue to use them. Because of this, we need to figure out solutions for people so they can use the computers for work without injuring themselves. Physical therapy is one way people can get help from chronic pain from use of computers. There are also things you can do yourself to help alleviate these problems. What You Can Do for Repetitive Strain Injuries From Using the Computer Repetitive strain injuries (RSIs) are common when you do the same repetitive movements day after day. They particularly cause problems in the shoulder, neck, and upper back. It's particularly common in the shoulder of the arm we use for our computer mouse. This isn't surprising since we use our mouse about three times as much as we use our keyboards. The first thing you should do to avoid RSIs is to ensure your work station is set up in a way as to be ergonomically correct. You don't want to have to move your shoulder too high—or too low—when reaching for your mouse. Both can cause problems with your upper arm and shoulder. Other tips include making sure your wrist is neutral or slightly flexed when you are using the mouse or keyboard. Adjust your arm rests to make sure they are offering support to your arms. Use both hands for your mouse, switching back and forth throughout the day. You can also try to use dictation software to give yourself a break from using the mouse and keyboard. A telephone headset is also useful if you are on the phone a lot and tend to hold the phone between your ear and shoulder. It's critical to modify your workspace because even if you undergo physical therapy for your RSI, it will return if you don't fix the problems that caused it in the first place. The Symptoms of Repetitive Strain Injuries From Using the Computer If you notice any of the following, this could be an RSI: Pain in your arm or shoulder on the side that uses the mouse A burning feeling in your arm or shoulder Pain and tightness in the shoulder blades and back Tingling or numbness in your fingers and hands Pain in your wrist—especially on the side that uses the mouse Loss of strength in your hand on the side that uses the mouse You might also find that you are getting frequent headaches. People can experience one or all of these symptoms, depending on the severity of their RSI. How Physical Therapy Can Help Physical therapy is helpful for those who have an injury that is preventing them from moving in the way they previously did. It is good for people of all ages. (Read these tips on preparing for your first physical therapy appointment.) If you are suffering from pain because you are at the computer every day for hours, physical therapy might help you in the following ways: It can reduce or eliminate the pain you are suffering. It can restore muscle and joint function in injured areas. It can improve your mobility. It can help you avoid surgery to treat an injured area. We live in a computer age where RSIs are common. You don't have to live with chronic pain. Find out if physical therapy might be the answer for your injuries from using the computer. Contact us today to find out more about physical therapy or any of our other services. With offices throughout the Denver metro area, including south Denver, Highlands Ranch, Lowry, Parker, Aurora, and Englewood, you can be sure that one is conveniently located near you. We look forward to working with you and helping you live a healthy, pain-free lifestyle! Wed, 04 Apr 2018 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/14553/Why-Computers-Are-Increasing-the-Need-for-Physical-Therapy-in-Parker--CO http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/14498/Using-Denver-Physical-Therapy-to-Help-Relieve-Chronic-Headaches- blog We all get a typical headache from time to time. Sometimes it is stress related, for others it could be nutritional habits. However, others experience headaches on a regular basis, which can be debilitating for everyday life. If you suffer from chronic headaches, it is crucial to get to the root of your problem. Each person is different and there are options out there to help. Learn more about chronic headaches and migraines and how Denver physical therapy can help. Different Types of Headaches A headache is a headache. Right? Not exactly. In fact, there are more than 100 variations of different types of headaches. Headaches occur in different areas of the head due to a multitude of causes. Some of the most common types of headaches include: Cluster: When a person has a cluster headache, it is normally a deep pain in one area. It is common for them to occur around the eye area. Due to how painful they can be, they can sometimes be mistaken for a migraine, especially if nausea is involved. The pain from a cluster headache not only can sit around one's eye and temple, but also shoot pain around the face, neck, and even shoulders. The affected eye may become red and/or dropping some people experience congestion in the nose. It is common for people who suffer from cluster headaches to have multiple flare-ups throughout the day, lasting anywhere from 15 minutes to a few hours. Sinus: Sinus headaches occur when there are congestion issues. This can occur from sinusitis, allergies or a cold. Sinusitis happens when the sinuses become congested and unable to expel as they normally would. There are passages in the forehead, eyes, nose, and cheeks and when there is added pressure, it is painful. The pain gets even worse when one tilts their head forward or even when lying down. Pain can even occur in the teeth. Tension: Tension headaches are often described as a tight feeling around the head. They can take place on both sides or front of the head and range in pain levels. When it comes to tension headaches, there are two types: episodic and chronic. Episodic tension headaches pop up and can last for a short amount of time or up to several days, every so often. A person may experience them a couple times a month. Tension headaches are chronic when they occur over half of the month. Migraine: When a person has a migraine, they experience extreme pain on one side of one's head. The pain can be so severe making a person experience nausea, vomiting or dizziness. Others also experience sensitivity to light or sound and it is common for a person with a headache to lay down in a dark, quiet space. For some, a migraine will last for a few hours, while others may have ongoing symptoms for a week. Headaches Stemming from Larger Issues Headaches can occur due to a multitude of causes. Ultimately, they happen when the blood vessels around the brain swell. As they swell, it negatively impacts the areas around them hence the pain around the different areas of the forehead, temples, and cheekbones. There are two ways headaches are categorized: primary or secondary. Primary headaches are ones where a headache is the main problem or a stand-alone condition. Cluster headaches, tension headaches or migraines are primary types of headaches. Secondary headaches are headaches that are a symptom of another pain or illness. Sinus headaches would be an example of a secondary headache. Headaches are genetic for some. For others, they can be due to stress and anxiety, medical issues, high blood pressure, overexertion or nutrition. How Migraines Differentiate from Headaches While migraines and headaches both have pain in and around one's head, migraines are more severe. In addition to its already debilitating symptoms, there are a few additional symptoms or categories of a migraine that headaches do not have. The first is an aura. Migraines with an aura are ones that include visual changes in addition to sensitivity to light, due to neurological changes. They can cause a person to see zig zags, flickers of light, spots or other illusions. For others, vision may become blurry or there may even be a temporary loss altogether.  Auras usually occur prior to a migraine and can last for a few minutes up to several. Auras can also be sensory, leading to negative sensations in the body such as in the arms, legs or feet. Tips for Relief Those who suffer from headaches can find relief in a variety of ways. One of the most common ways is through over-the-counter medication. Popular ones include ibuprofen, acetaminophen, aspirin, and naproxen. In addition, rest and relaxation are key. When coping with a headache, continuing to push yourself will not aid in its disappearance. For some, they find relief through peppermint oils that can be rubbed on the temples. Food also can play an impact on headaches. It is important to monitor when a headache occurs. In many cases, it can be food related. For some, it can be intolerances and allergies, while for others, it can be artificial ingredients and aspartame. Use a food journal to document what you eat and any symptoms that occur after. Over time, you will begin to see patterns and can make changes accordingly. It is important for you to do research and learn how to stop a headache to find methods that work for you. Did you know that physical therapy can aid in headache relief? Whether your headaches are primary or secondary, Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness can help. Oftentimes, headaches are caused by musculoskeletal problems or jaw pain. Through working with us, we will help you find the root of your headaches and come up with a relief plan for you. In many cases, through dietary changes and customized exercises and stretches, relief is in sight. You can also try dry needling or soft tissue mobilization. Contact Peak PT and Wellness today to set up your appointment. Wed, 28 Mar 2018 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/14498/Using-Denver-Physical-Therapy-to-Help-Relieve-Chronic-Headaches- http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/14462/Parker-PT--Your-Gait-Dysfunction-Might-Be-Slowing-You-Down blog Nothing is more frustrating when you are training for a race—whether it's a 5k or a full marathon—than being sidelined by constant injuries. If you are a Parker runner who is constantly plagued with problems in your shins, calves, or hips, you might want to consider a running analysis. Also referred to as a gait analysis, once the problem has been identified, you can be treated—and back on the road (or trail) feeling better than ever. Getting a professional gait analysis by an experienced clinician means a more efficient and accurate diagnosis. What this means for you is that you are running pain-free in a shorter amount of time. What Does It Mean to Have a Gait Dysfunction? When you have a gait dysfunction, it means that the way you are walking or running is abnormal in some way. In some cases, they can be related to some kind of disorder of the inner ear, diseases of the muscle or nervous system, or musculoskeletal abnormalities. When these underlying disorders are treated, often the problem with gait is normalized. There are common classifications of gait dysfunction, as follows: Anatalgic. This is commonly referred to as a limp, meaning people are putting more weight on one leg than the other. This is usually because they are in some kind of pain. Cerebellar ataxia. This gait dysfunction is displayed by erratic foot placement, such as in someone who is intoxicated. Parkinsonian. These short, shuffled steps are often seen in those suffering from Parkinson's disease. Steppage. With this dysfunction people cannot lift their ankle so they frequently lift the leg higher at the knee and hip Vestibular ataxia. This is usually related to vertigo or inner-ear conditions and causes people to walk in an unsteady manner. Waddling. People with this pattern of dysfunction often walk on their toes, with a side-to-side movement. These are some of the most commonly known dysfunctions. Yours might be different than what is listed here. You can find a more comprehensive list of gait abnormalities published by Stanford Medicine that offers a bit more insight. How Is a Gait Dysfunction Diagnosed? Although running shoe stores often offer a running analysis to determine the best type of running shoes, nothing compares to a gait analysis screening by a professional physical therapist. When you go in for an analysis, you will likely be asked a series of questions first, including: Are you experiencing any pain while walking or running? Did you recently have a fall? When did you start to notice you were not walking the way you always have? Is the problem with walking or running getting worse? The physical therapist will also talk to you about your medical history, including whether or not you are on any medications. When you first meet with the physical therapist, be prepared to describe your pain and symptoms in as detailed a manner as possible. Before your first appointment, in fact, it might be a good idea to keep a journal that outlines what activities you are doing when you are experiencing pain—whether it's just while you are running or if the pain exists while you are walking and doing other things. Try to be as detailed as possible. The physical therapist will conduct certain assessments to help determine the cause of your gait problems, including: The physical therapist will have you walk back and forth so he or she can observe any abnormalities in your gait simply by watching you. The physical therapist will check your balance to determine if you are at undue risk of a fall. The physical therapist will see how fast you walk. The physical therapist will test your strength and range of motion. The physical therapist will test your reflexes. The physical therapist will conduct sensation screenings. Based on these assessments, he or she will try to diagnose the reason for the gait problems. Can I Do Something to Prevent Gait Problems? Whether or not your issue is preventable depends on the reason for it. But often getting treatment early means further issues can be prevented What Can a Physical Therapist Do to Improve Gait? Physical therapy is crucial in helping people improve their gait so they can walk and run again without pain. Each treatment plan is different, depending on the issues you are having the reasons behind them, but a treatment strategy might include any of the following items: Pre-gait training. These include activities and exercises that have nothing to do with, such as standing and lifting your leg. But they can give you insight into improving your gait. Gait training. This includes retraining the way you walk based on the underlying condition for your gait problems. Balance and coordination training. These activities can help you get better balance, which will help stabilize the way you walk. Neuromuscular reeducation. Your inactive muscles might need to be activated to improve your walking pattern. Bracing or splinting. If a weakness in a ligament is part of your gait problem, a brace or splint might be able to help. Manual therapy. Depending on the reasons for your gait problems, we might also recommend manual therapy and soft tissue mobilization. Dry needling. Dry needling is crucial for pain control, muscle tension reduction, and improved biochemical motor functions. Don't be sidelined because of pain or discomfort. Talk to Peak Physical Therapy & Wellness about a Parker running analysis and treatment plan for runners of all ability levels. Our comprehensive running analysis has three goals: (1) tell you what you need to do to reduce your pain, (2) lower your risk of injuring yourself in the future, and (3) improving your running performance. At Peak Physical Therapy & Wellness, we will also talk to you about an appropriate training plan to help you achieve your running goals with a lot less pain. Contact us today to find out more about a running analysis. With offices throughout the Denver metro area, including south Denver, Highlands Ranch, Lowry, Parker, Aurora, and Englewood, you can be sure that one is conveniently located near you. We look forward to working with you and helping you live a healthy, pain-free lifestyle! Wed, 21 Mar 2018 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/14462/Parker-PT--Your-Gait-Dysfunction-Might-Be-Slowing-You-Down http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/14388/Deciding-on-the-Right-TMJ-treatment-in-Denver blog TMJ is short for temporomandibular joint, and the TMJ is like a hinge that connects your jawbone to your skill. When you have pain in your jaw joint or in the muscles around it, it is called a TMJ disorder. Deciding on the right TMJ treatment in Denver isn't always easy, and it might depend on the reason behind the disorder. TMJ disorders can be caused by the bad luck of genetics, an injury to the jaw, or an arthritis condition. Sometimes people who clench or grind their teeth develop TMJ disorders. There are a variety of TMJ treatments available for people who are experiencing pain. TMJ disorders can manifest themselves in a variety of ways. You may feel pain or tenderness in the joint area, in your neck or shoulders, or even around your ears. You might have issues if you try to open your mouth wide for yawning. Your jaws might get locked into position, or you might hear clicking or popping sounds coming from your jaw joint when you speak or chew. Chewing might be uncomfortable. Your face might become swollen in the area near the TMJ. Most problems, whether muscular or within the joint, improve with the passage of time, so starting out with the most conservative treatment is usually your best bet. Tips for Relief You Can Try on Your Own These tips might help relieve your TMJ pain or discomfort: Try to avoid yawning—or yawn as little as possible. When you do yawn, try to press your fist under your chin to keep your mouth from opening too much. Don't chew on ice or gum. Stop using extreme jaw movements, such as singing and yelling Yawn and chew (especially gum or ice) as little as possible. Avoid extreme jaw movements, such as yelling or singing. Try to rest your jaw naturally as much as possible. This means keeping your teeth and lips slightly apart. Sleep on your back as much as possible. Especially avoid sleeping on your stomach. Don't rest your chin on your hand or hold the telephone between your shoulder and ear. Try to reduce stress. Eat soft foods that don't require a lot of chewing. Suggestions include smoothies, cottage cheese, soups, yogurt, and so on. Avoid hard or thick foods that require you to open your mouth wide and are difficult to chew. See a physical therapist who can work with your head and neck simultaneously. A physical therapist can also recommend specific exercises to do to help relieve your pain. You might want to check out what the TMJ Association—yes, there is an association for this disorder—has to say about TMJ treatments, including its list of recommended resources. Therapies to Treat TMJ Disorders Some of the more common therapies to treat TMJ disorders include the following: Oral appliance or mouth guard. If you are clenching or grinding your teeth (bruxism)—especially at night when you sleep—these appliances can be helpful. If you are not sure if you are dealing with bruxism, your dentist should be able to tell you based on the condition of your teeth. If your bite is off, this too can cause TMJ pain, and your dentist can help you address this issue as well. Physical therapy. As mentioned previously, physical therapy can be helpful. Treatments might include ultrasound and moist heat and ice. A physical therapist can also show you exercises to do that will help strengthen and lengthen jaw muscles. Often a regimen of ice, heat, and exercise will relieve symptoms. Counseling. It might sound odd, but if you are performing behaviors such as biting your fingernails or grinding your teeth that are exacerbating your TMJ pain, understanding why you are doing them can you stop. Often this is all you need to stop your TMJ pain. Medications to Treat TMJ Disorders When you are trying nonsurgical treatments for TMJ disorders, your doctor might prescribe some type of mediation to go along with it. Here is a list of those that have been shown to help: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories—also known as NSAIDs—can provide relief with TMJ pain. If over-the-counter pain relievers such as Advil, Motrin, and others aren't enough, you can ask your doctor or dentist for a prescription for one that is stronger. Muscle relaxants can be used for a limited period of time to provide relief of TMJ disorder symptoms. Tricyclic antidepressants often have a secondary use other than for depression, and that includes pain relief. Your doctor can give you more information. Surgeries to Treat TMJ Disorders Surgery is typically a last resort after conservative measures have been exhausted, but some people with TMJ disorders may benefit from surgical treatments. These procedures might help where other treatments have failed: One option that is minimally invasive is called arthrocentesis. With this procedure, small needles are put into the TMJ so fluid can be used to flush out debris from the joint. Corticosteroid injections into the TMJ might help some suffers. In some cases, Botox injections into the jaw muscle are now being used to relieve some of the pain. Modified condylotomy is surgery on the mandible but not in the joint itself. This procedure is more helpful on those whose jaw locks up. Open-joint surgery (arthrotomy) repairs or replaces the actual join. This is done only in extreme cases because of the risks. Arthroscopic surgery is preferred because there are fewer risks than in open-joint surgery. With this type of surgery, an arthroscope is inserted into the joint space via a small tube. Small surgical instruments are used to treat the joint. If your doctor recommends surgery, be sure to discuss the potential benefits and risks, and ask what all your options are. Contact us today to find out more about how physical therapy can help with your TMJ or TMJ. With offices throughout the Denver metro area, including south Denver, Highlands Ranch, Lowry, Parker, Aurora, and Englewood, you can be sure that one is conveniently located near you. We look forward to working with you and helping you live a healthy, pain-free lifestyle! Wed, 14 Mar 2018 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/14388/Deciding-on-the-Right-TMJ-treatment-in-Denver http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/14310/Parker-Women-s-Health--What-You-Need-to-Know-About-Pelvic-Physical-Therapy- blog If you are a female concerned about women's health in Parker because you are experiencing issues such as pelvic pain, uterine prolapse, incontinence, or anything else involving the pelvic area, we invite you to call Peak Physical Therapy & Wellness. Our experts would be happy to provide you with a pelvic health physical therapy evaluation. You don't have to suffer with these often painful and always inconvenient issues. Many of these problems can be fixed quite easily, and you can get back to living a normal life again. Give us a call if you are experiencing any of these problems. Endometriosis This disorder, in which the cells that form the endometrial lining of the uterus grow outside of the uterus, affects millions of women in the United States. There can be a lot of pain associated with endometriosis, including painful urination and painful intercourse. Pelvic physical therapy can help when the therapists manipulates the organs affected by hand. This manual work can improve tissue mobility and increase circulation to the areas. A pelvic physical therapist can also offer suggestions for general diet and exercise. Hernia Hernias happen to both men and women, and often it is a physical activity, such as moving or lifting something heavy, that makes people aware of the hernia. It is generally unknown whether the activity caused the hernia or just caused it to become symptomatic. Early diagnosis of a hernia means patients are treated more quickly. (Want to learn more about hernias? Read this article on everything you need to know about hernias from Columbia University Department of Surgery.) Urinary Incontinence This is another condition that also affects both men and women. Women who have experienced childbirth are particularly vulnerable because of issues with the pelvic floor. Physical therapy can help strengthen the muscles located in the pelvic floor. Even patients who have been suffering from urinary incontinence for years can benefit from seeing a physical therapist. Irritable Bowel Since the bowel and pelvis are located so closely to one another, it is not surprising that issues of the pelvis could lead to problems with the bowel. Researchers have continued to examine the connection between the two, and have become more inclined to believe there is indeed a connection. Because of the role of the pelvic floor muscles in coordinating bowel movements and controlling the action of the anal sphincter, problems with these muscles can lead to bowel problems, including irritable bowel syndrome. Painful Bladder Syndrome Painful bladder syndrome, also called interstitial cystitis, presents itself in a number of ways, including urinary urgency, constipation, unexplained back pain, and pain during or after intercourse. Patients suffering from this syndrome often have very tight or spasming muscles in the pelvic region. There are trigger points that set off bladder symptoms. Physical therapy can help relax and lengthen tight muscles and release the trigger points, offering patients relief. Pelvic Floor Muscle Over-Activity When pelvic floor muscles are overactive, this can cause pain much like having tight neck muscles. But with physical therapy, patients learn techniques to relieve the tight muscle tension. Pelvic Inflammatory Disease Pelvic inflammatory disease is a condition wherein the ovaries and fallopian tubes develop an infection. This is usually the result of a sexually transmitted disease. This is a painful condition that can actually be fatal if it is left untreated. Of course, antibiotics are needed immediately to get the infection under control and to keep it from spreading. In addition, physical therapy can be beneficial to help with the pain and to promote healing in the area. Lower Back Pain If you are a woman suffering from unexplained lower back pain, it could be because of problems with the pelvic floor. Women who have experienced childbirth are particularly susceptible to unexplained lower back pain occurring as a result of a weakened pelvic floor. Physical therapy can improve muscle strength, relieving back pain and other symptoms. Post-Surgery Problems Patients who undergo pelvic or abdominal surgery can benefit from physical therapy in the months immediately following the surgery. Physical therapy can help break up any scar tissue that has formed. It can help patients regain their strength and range of motion. Just as in knee surgery, where physical therapy is mandated, after abdominal surgery, patients who have physical therapy will enjoy an improved range of motion much sooner than without physical therapy. Postpartum Issues Having a baby is natural, but it can also be hard on the body. Oftentimes after childbirth, women find that their abdominals are weak because of muscles that have been over-stretched, resulting in lower back pain. Other problems postpartum can include urinary incontinence and painful intercourse. There can also be scarring from a C-section or episiotomy. Sometimes just a few sessions of physical therapy can make all the difference, resolving these problems relatively quickly. Weak Abdominals or Muscle Separation During pregnancy, abdominal muscles are put to the test. Sometimes, these muscles not only stretch but they become fully separated. In some people, this condition doesn't heal properly, resulting in a condition called diastasis recti. The condition leads to a weak core and back pain, not to mention a stubborn postpartum belly that lingers. Physical therapy can often completely heal this condition with a series of core-stabilizing exercises. A physical therapist can also advise patients on the proper core exercises to do; some gym exercises such as crunches, planks, and sit ups can actually be counterproductive when it comes to healing this condition. These should be avoided. You don't need to suffer alone. Contact us today to find out more about pelvic physical therapy or any of our other services. We offer TMJ treatment, dry needling, hand therapy, injury risk assessment, kinesio taping, manual therapy, running analysis, and TRX training among others. With offices throughout the Denver metro area, including south Denver, Highlands Ranch, Lowry, Parker, Aurora, and Englewood, you can be sure that one is conveniently located near you. We look forward to working with you and helping you return to a normal, pain-free lifestyle! Wed, 07 Mar 2018 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/14310/Parker-Women-s-Health--What-You-Need-to-Know-About-Pelvic-Physical-Therapy- http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/14262/Preparing-for-Your-Denver-Physical-Therapy-Appointment blog If you've had an injury that continues to cause you pain and discomfort, and limits your mobility, it might be time to see a professional for physical therapy in Denver. In many cases, seeing a physical therapist for an injury means you can avoid surgery as well as medications. A physical therapist will address any condition that is limiting your ability to move and function properly on a day-to-day basis. Take a look at some of the comments from our patients who found relief with our services, including physical therapy. Before you go to a physical therapist, here's what you should know about ahead of time. Be Prepared Before Your First Appointment Make a written list of questions you have for your physical therapist. It's easy to forget what you want to ask while you are in the appointment, so having a list you can refer to is key. Also make notes for yourself for information to share with the physical therapist. For instance, what symptoms have you been suffering from and for how long? If you have multiple symptoms, which one is bothering you the most? Share information too on when the symptoms are bothering you most, including what activities are giving you the most pain or discomfort. Other considerations include: What time of day are you most bothered by your pain or symptoms? Are there physical positions that bother your pain or symptoms more than others? Does resting provide you with any relief from your pain or symptoms? Jot down some notes about your medical history to share with the physical therapist. Even medical conditions that seem unrelated to your current pain or symptoms could be important. If you are currently taking any medications, be sure to share that information with your physical therapist. Include a list of all supplements you might be taking. If you have recent lab work or diagnostic reports from other health professionals, take that along. If you have been working with other healthcare professionals regarding your pain or symptom, and if you would like them to share information with the physical therapist, bring along that information. Think about your family history, such as medical conditions your siblings or parents might be experiencing. If you have had any injuries or stress, or are dealing with unique environmental circumstances, share this information with your physical therapist. It's not a bad idea to take along a family member or close friend to your first appointment with the physical therapist. It can be helpful for someone else to hear the information to ensure you don't forget anything. Another person might also think of good questions to ask that you hadn't considered. When making your appointment, ask whether or not you will be engaging in any physical activities at your initial visit. If so, be sure to wear comfortable clothing so you can move freely. Considerations About Finances Ask about the clinic's financial policies before you go in for your first appointment. Make sure you understand exactly what your responsibilities will be. Find out what might be covered under your insurance and what you will likely be responsible for paying. Read any financial agreement closely before signing it. Be prepared to pay any deductibles or copays each time you go to physical therapy so you can avoid getting a large, unexpected bill. Be sure to find out what is covered under your insurance as far as frequency of visits. If your insurance coverage changes at any time during treatment, be sure to let the office know this. Your First Visit to the Physical Therapist Now that you have done the legwork prior to coming in, it's time for that first appointment. Here's what you can expect. Be prepared to answer lots of questions, both about your overall health as well as the specific pain and symptoms you are being seen for. The more detailed you can be, the better the plan your physical therapist can devise for your treatment. Be sure to talk about your home and work environment, how healthy a lifestyle you live, what your activity level is, and any leisure activities you might be involved in. Your physical therapist will conduct a physical exam that will vary from patient to patient, depending on your individual circumstances. These might include: Blood pressure Heart and respiration rates Strength and flexibility tests Flexibility and balance Your physical therapist will probably touch the area in question as well. Other parts of the evaluation might include a close look at how you walk, how you get up from lying down, how you stand up when getting out of a chair, how well you can bend and lift things. Goals of Your Physical Therapy Treatment At your first visit, your physical therapist will go over your goals for treatment. In most cases, your physical therapist will make a diagnosis at that first appointment and make a plan that will improve your ability to function on a daily basis. Depending on your pain or symptoms, this might include improving motion or reducing pain. (Find out more here about who can benefit from physical therapy.) As you go through treatment, your physical therapist will constantly be making adjustments, based on what does and doesn't seem to be working. If you need any special equipment, such as a splint or crutches, your physical therapist will make a recommendation. If you at risk for falling, he or she may also make recommendations for equipment that can make your home and work environment safer. Be prepared to have "homework" as your physical therapist may assign exercises for you to do at home in between visits. Make a commitment before starting physical therapy to be an active participant in your treatment. Also go in with a positive attitude, which has been shown to improve patient results. Don't hesitate to ask any questions about your physical therapy. Contact us today to find out more about physical therapy or any of our other services. With offices throughout the Denver metro area, including south Denver, Highlands Ranch, Lowry, Parker, Aurora, and Englewood, you can be sure that one is conveniently located near you. We look forward to working with you and helping you live a healthy, pain-free lifestyle! Wed, 28 Feb 2018 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/14262/Preparing-for-Your-Denver-Physical-Therapy-Appointment http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/14218/TRX-Training-in-Parker--CO--Why-It-Hurts-So-Good-and-Is-So-Good-for-You blog If you haven't had the opportunity to swing into your next workout with TRX suspension training, you are missing out. TRX suspension training is a relatively new way to work out with just your body weight. It forces just about every muscle in your body to work in a pull or push motion like no other exercise does. At Peak Physical Therapy & Wellness, we have embraced TRX suspension training in Parkerr, CO (We include a comprehensive list of some of the benefits of TRX training here.) What Is TRX Suspension Training? This fitness tool is made up of high-quality nylon that is highly durable. It has the ability to hold up to 1,400 pounds. It has handles into which you can put your hands or feet—depending on the exercise you are doing—and can be set up almost anywhere. It strongly engages your core as well as your strength, agility, and balance. It's fairly simple with just six main body positions that give you options for hundreds of exercises, regardless of your fitness or skill level. All are variations of either standing up or lying down. Many of the big box gyms now have TRX suspension trainers in them as well. What Makes TRX Training Such a Great Option? TRX training was invented by a Navy Seal. He used it to help maintain fitness of his fellow troops—regardless of where in the world they happened to be located. The hanging bands use only your body weight to engage all the muscles of the body. You can even incorporate TRX training into your next vacation! Read more here. It's a great overall fitness method for the following reasons: It is suitable for everyone, regardless of your current level of fitness. Olympic athletes and couch potatoes alike will benefit from this exercise. The body weight load can be increased or decreased by just slight shifts in position. This type of training works for everyone. It can help you achieve any health or fitness goal. Regardless of your goal, whether you want to get stronger, lose weight, or run a marathon, TRX suspension training can help you achieve it. It can be used to improve cardiovascular health as well as to increase strength. There is an old adage when it comes to lifting weights for a cardio workout that says, Just lift faster! And this same theory holds true for TRX training. You can speed up your performance of an exercise and make great gains from a cardiovascular endurance standpoint. It is incredibly versatile. With just two adjustable bands, you can create a workout that will hit on every muscle in your body. (You might even feel muscles you never knew existed!) They are easily transportable so you can take them with you anywhere for a full workout—even in your hotel room. They pair only weight about 2 pounds, so you will not even notice them in your suitcase. It is safe. Because the bands are suspended, a workout with TRX suspension bands is low impact, so you are able to give your joints a break from stress. This means the risk of injury is very low, so you can train hard—even if you are a newbie. If you are training with another injury, TRX suspension training makes it easy to train around it. It engages your entire body. This is particularly valuable for enthusiasts who participate in another sport, such as running. It makes a great adjunct to training for any sport because your entire body, including your core, is constantly being activated. You'll get a whole-body workout that is very comprehensive. It is fresh and different. Tired of going to the gym and phoning it in on the elliptical machine—and seeing minimal results for your efforts? Let's face it: Going to the gym and doing the same thing over and over can get pretty boring and undermine your fitness goals completely. TRX training livens up your training regimen, making working out feel fun again! What Are the Benefits of TRX Suspension Trainer Workouts? Professional athletes, including Major League baseball players and MMA fighters, are becoming fans of this way of training. Why? It offers a number of excellent benefits: You don't need a gym membership so you can work out when it's convenient for you to do so. This is both convenient (no waiting for equipment) and inexpensive (no paying of monthly gym membership fees). They are affordable if you want to buy your own set to use at home. Although they are an investment, buying a set is still much cheaper than having to buy free weights. They take up less space in your home gym than a weight bench or other fitness equipment. They are long-lasting and durable, so after you purchase them, no other investment is required. As with many home guys, you don't have to spend time adjusting machines or weights. You set up the bands once, then you can do an entire workout without have to move them again. They are excellent for building core strength, which is a weakness for many people and related to many other aches and pains in the body. It improves muscle endurance with high reps and low weight (bodyweight). It will help you grow strong so you can avoid injuries in the future or with other activities. It provides participants with a great workout that gives you a variety of range of motions. You can get creative with what you do, and you can push yourself. TRX suspension trainers are also useful for rehabbing if you have become injured and are slowly trying to become mobile again. Contact us today to find out more about how TRX training can use gravity and your own body weight to safely and effectively get you into great shape. With offices throughout the Denver metro area, including south Denver, Highlands Ranch, Lowry, Parker, Aurora, and Englewood, you can be sure that one is conveniently located near you. We look forward to working with you and helping you live a healthy, pain-free lifestyle! Wed, 21 Feb 2018 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/14218/TRX-Training-in-Parker--CO--Why-It-Hurts-So-Good-and-Is-So-Good-for-You http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/14179/What-You-Should-Know-About-Dry-Needling-in-Denver blog If you have suffered an injury, in pain from an old injury, or just dealing with chronic discomfort, the suggestion for dry needling might have come up. This is a fairly new treatment that has been gaining in popularity in the past few years. Before you run to the computer to do an online search for dry needling in Denver, let's take a look at the history of dry needling and what it might be able to do for you. The History Dry Needling The discovery of dry needling dates back to the 1940s when a doctor by the name of Janet Travell identified muscular trigger points and patterns on the body. She along with another doctor, David Simon, created the first generation of what is known today as dry needling. The American Physical Therapy Association defines dry needling as a skilled intervention that uses needles to penetrate the skin to stimulate underlying trigger points for pain and movement impairment management. The treatment uses small, solid needles inserted into the body. The purpose is to stimulate tissue and release tight muscles. It can also be used to help lessen pain. Dry needling is a growing trend being used by professional athletes as well as weekend warriors. Dry Needling Versus Acupuncture You might be asking yourself, what is the difference between dry needling and acupuncture. Because the two use needles, they might sound very similar. The truth is, although there is a commonality with both using needles, there is a big difference in both method and approach between the two. Dry needling is used to treat the muscles after a physical examination has been conducted. Treatment is based on where the patient is feeling pain as well as other areas that the physical therapist determines after conducting an examination and assessment. When undergoing dry needling, the physical therapist inserts needles into the body slowly. They are moved around and manipulated—gently—to get a response from the muscle and usually removed almost immediately afterward. This process might be repeated over and over again, depending on the situation. Acupuncture is a technique for balancing the flow of energy. When acupuncturists insert needles into specific points of the body, they are looking to balance energy flow. In acupuncture, the needles are frequently left in the body for a specific amount of time, with the acupuncturist often leaving the patient for a while. Who Performs Dry Needling? Most states regulate dry needling so it is performed only by a physical therapist or doctor of physical therapy who has been specially trained. At Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness, a certified physical therapist will perform dry needling. A massage therapist does not perform dry needling although massage too deals with trigger points in the body. Conditions That Can Be Treated With Dry Needling Dry needling can relieve a variety of musculoskeletal problems. It is relaxing and therapeutic procedure that is suitable for many different conditions, such as back and neck pain, sporting injuries, and discomfort that is a result of poor posture. If you are suffering from any of the following conditions, you might inquire about dry needling to find out whether it can help you: Athletic performance Back pain Bursitis Chronic pain Golfer's elbow Headaches IT band syndrome Knee pain Neck Osteoarthritis Piriformis syndrome Plantar fasciitis Sciatica Tendonitis Tennis elbow Does Dry Needling Hurt? For the vast majority of people, dry needling does not hurt. In fact, most people don't even feel the needles being inserted. Although the needle is moved and manipulated in order to engage a response from the muscle, the feeling that ensues is more of an ache or cramping sensation rather than pain.   Side Effects of Dry Needling It probably comes as no surprise that there can be side effects to dry needling, but these will vary depending on the individual. Some people report some needle soreness that might last for a day or so after treatment. In very few patients, there is some skin bruising at the needle sights, but this is somewhat rare and occurs in fewer than 5 percent of patients. Just in case you are a bit sore after treatment, you might want to plan your schedule around that possibility to give yourself a few days to recover. What to Expect During Your First Dry Needling Appointment During your first session, our physical therapist will evaluate the areas where you are feeling pain, discomfort, or tightness. An examination will determine which muscles are tight or knotted. This is often performed by gently pressing on the areas as directed by the patient or by palpitating areas to determine if the muscle feels tight or knotted. After locating the areas to be treated, the physical therapist will press a plastic tube containing a sterile needle against the skin, gently tapping it into place. There should be very little discomfort during this procedure; most patients barely feel anything. As the needle is pressed deeper into the muscle tissue, there may be some discomfort. The physical therapist will then gently manipulate the needle to stimulate the muscle into twitching or cramping, loosening tight muscle fibers. Many patients report feeling relief from pain after just one or two dry needling sessions. If you have heard about dry needling yet you remain skeptical of its efficacy, you should consider that many professional athletes around the world are using this treatment to relieve muscle pain and dysfunction. At Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness, we are always happy to answer your questions about any of our treatments, which in addition to dry needling include treatment for craniofacial and jaw pain, functional movement screening, hand therapy and splinting, injury risk assessment, and more. Contact us today to find out more about dry needling or any of our other services. With offices throughout the Denver metro area, including south Denver, Highlands Ranch, Lowry, Parker, Aurora, and Englewood, you can be sure that one is conveniently located near you. We look forward to working with you and helping you live a healthy, pain-free lifestyle! Wed, 14 Feb 2018 06:00:00 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/blog/14179/What-You-Should-Know-About-Dry-Needling-in-Denver http://peakptandwellness.com/job/779/Physical-Therapist job Peak Physical Therapy (PT) is an owned and operated outpatient orthopedic practice with 25 years of experience and patient satisfaction throughout 12 clinics in the Denver Metro area. Peak desires to add valuable team members to strengthen our development as our company grows. Peak PT believes in lifelong learning and has established a culture focused on this through our unlimited continuing education reimbursement, company wide specialty teams that focus on staying up-to-date with the latest research and our extensive mentorship program, all designed to help our staff provide the most effective treatment to our patients. In addition to a comprehensive mentorship & company wide learning efforts, we also encourage our employees to "find their niche". We encourage you, and will help you through our unlimited continuing education and marketing department build a specialized caseload in area of Physical Therapy that you are most interested in. Our goal is to help our therapist grow in the areas they are most passionate about! Peak is searching for experienced Physical Therapist to develop and implement customized plans of care for each patient to help them maximize quality of life through promotion, prevention, diagnosis, treatment or intervention, and rehabilitation. Requirements: Expertise as a physical therapist Educational and clinical expertise, including current treatment procedures Understanding of billing/documentation of procedures Professional demeanor and communication skills Valid license to practice physical therapy in the state of Colorado Graduate degree or greater in physical therapy Pay range, benefits, and rewards: Pay range: $72k-89k Monetary Bonus: There is a terrific opportunity to hit a personal monthly bonus resulting in additional compensation up to $6000-$9600 a year! Continuing Education: Unlimited and available to all clinicians. PTO: 1st year: 80 hours accrued 2nd year: Increases to 90 hours accrued. 3rd year: Increases another 100hrs accrued 4th year: 100hrs accrued 7th year: Increases another 10 hours (160 hours total) In addition to regularly accrued PTO, opportunities for bonus to obtain more! Group Events: Peak strives for employee satisfaction; thus, clinic bonus opportunities allow for group outings—examples: Top Golf, Bowling, delicious dinners, etc. Peak also hosts an annual company-wide get-togethers to ensure a great connection between clinics. Benefits: Vision, Dental, Medical, Disability, Life-insurance, 401K, 401K matching, Unlimited Continuing education etc. Responsibilities: Identify and meet patient goals and needs Collaborate with a multidisciplinary team that may consist of PTs, OTs, PTAs and exercise physiologists to help patients meet optimal outcomes Evaluate and create cost-effective treatment plans to improve patient motion and mobility, thus allowing for alternatives to medication and surgical options Creation of wellness plans tailored to the patient's needs & promotion of the client's healthy lifestyle through improved strength, flexibility, balance, and more Apply appropriate documentation and billing per Medicare guidelines Monitor personal productivity Peak is searching for motivated and talented Physical Therapists to join our team to develop and implement customized plans of care for each patient to help them maximize quality of life through promotion, prevention, diagnosis, treatment or intervention, and rehabilitation. Peak Physical Therapy provided the following inclusive hiring information: We are an equal opportunity employer and consider all qualified applicants equally without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or disability status. Veteran-led organization Women-led organization Inclusive of minority and disadvantaged groups LGBTQ+ friendly workplace Age-inclusive' Locations: Denver, Aurora, and Parker, CO Full-time & Part-time positions Monday-Thursday 7am-7pm & Friday 7am-5pm: Four 10hr shifts preferred, but for the right candidate accommodations available, Various Shifts, NO WEEKENDS OR HOLIDAYS Job Type: Full-time Salary: $72,000.00 - $89,000.00 per year Benefits: 401(k) Dental insurance Flexible schedule Health insurance Paid time off Vision insurance Medical specialties: Orthopedics Physical & Rehabilitation Medicine Schedule: 10 hour shift 8 hour shift Work setting: In-person Ability to Relocate: Denver, CO 80231: Reliably commute or planning to relocate before starting work (Required) License/Certification: Physical Therapy License (Required) Work Location: One location Wed, 05 Feb 2025 09:55:19 GMT http://peakptandwellness.com/job/779/Physical-Therapist