Art therapy has typically been reserved for patients with mental disorders, but recent research shows art therapy benefits patients with neurological disorders as well. Although contemporary art therapy is a fairly new practice, using art for therapeutic purposes was well known in ancient times. For example, philosophers in ancient Greece referred to the healing power of music with restoring the soul. Fast forward to the 1940′s, the therapeutic use of art was refined into a … [Read more...]
Physical Therapy
Are You Prepared for PDPM on October 1st?
The journey to PDPM (Patient-Driven Payment Model) presents many new changes for healthcare organizations in the skilled nursing world. On October 1st, PDPM will bring about a paradigm shift from the current RUG-IV system for SNF patients covered in Part A stay. This blog will help your organization prepare for a smooth transition ahead. How is PDPM divided? PDPM consists of five case-mix adjusted components, and one fixed component. The five variable components are: … [Read more...]
Patient Driven Payment Model (PDPM)
Skilled nursing facilities need to be prepared NOW for Patient Driven Payment Model (PDPM). Center of Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) has introduced a new payment model/case-mix model called Patient Driven Payment Model, which will take place starting October 1st, 2019. Ultimately, Patient Driven Payment Model (also known as PDPM) is going to affect the Medicare patient’s stay in skilled nursing facilities across the country.PDPM is replacing the current RUG … [Read more...]
How Does a PT Become Certified in Dry Needling?
I recently sat down with one of our speakers, Dr. Chad Hensel, to discuss the benefits of dry needling and how a PT can become certified in this technique. You can check out Dr. Chad's course on dry needling. … [Read more...]
5 Critical Heat Safety Tips for Patients
Brush up on your summer safety knowledge with our top heat safety tips so you can educate your patients on how to remain safely active during these long, hot summer days. Summertime is hot… especially in the South! With temperatures climbing to 100 degrees or more, it’s critically important you provide life-saving heat safety tips to your patients. #1 - Educate your Patient on the Signs of Heat Illness. This is the first and most important of our heat safety tips. You must … [Read more...]
Who Can Perform Dry Needling?
There is hot debate among healthcare professionals and legislative bodies over who can perform dry needling and who should perform dry needling. Learn the APTA’s stance on the issue here. In our previous blog, we addressed the safety and efficacy of dry needling technique for treating a wide variety of acute and chronic pain conditions. But, exactly who can perform dry needling? That is, is dry needling within the scope of practice for all physical therapists or is special … [Read more...]
Dangerous Sleeping Pills? FDA Issues Black Box Warning on Ambien & Other Insomnia Meds
The FDA just issued a black box warning on prescription insomnia medications, and millions of Americans are currently taking these dangerous sleeping pills. Here’s what healthcare professionals need to know. 50 to 70 million adults suffer from a sleeping disorder with insomnia being the most common. For years, the gold standard for insomnia treatment has included combined behavior therapy and pharmacotherapy. But now, healthcare providers might want to consider using … [Read more...]
Health Benefits of Massage Therapy for Seniors
Massage therapy benefits seniors by improving both physical and mental health.The health benefits of massage therapy for seniors include strengthening muscles and reducing tension on the joints. It also brings about a good night’s sleep, helps aid digestive issues, and can facilitate improved range of motion during the day. However, a better understanding and knowledge on how to do massage in the elderly is essential to make it more effective.Massage therapy for … [Read more...]