Sensory modulation disorder (SMD) refers to difficulty regulating responses to sensory stimulation.Back in 1972, occupational therapist and advocate Dr. A. Jean Ayers described sensory integration as, “The neurological process that organizes sensation from one’s own body and from the environment and makes it possible to use the body effectively with the environment.” Modern leaders in the field have taken the original neurological understanding and theory … [Read more...]
PT
Proper Nutrition and the Physical Therapist
Proper nutrition can have a major impact on a patient’s healing journey after injury.Physical therapists (PTs) tend to focus on functional capabilities, strength, flexibility, and other physical components of the rehabilitation process. However, we tend to forget about nutrition and the vital role it plays in healing and recovery. A patient with optimal nutrition will have an overall quicker, more efficient healing process, allowing for better patient … [Read more...]
Tips for Pediatric Travel Physical Therapy
Pediatric physical therapy is a niche practice.Travel physical therapy has become a popular career path for many physical therapy professionals. With significantly high vacancy rates for PTs, especially in outpatient practices, many facilities have begun to bring in travel therapists to fill these open positions. What do travel physical therapists do? Travel PTs are also often hired to cover extended medical and maternity leaves. They work on a … [Read more...]
What is the Difference Between Dyskinesia and Dystonia?
While dystonia and dyskinesia have similarities, it is important for physical therapists to know the differences.Dystonia and dyskinesia are two involuntary movement disorders familiar to most physical therapists. Both are often associated with neurological diseases such as Parkinson's or Huntington’s. While dystonia and dyskinesia have similarities, it is important for physical therapists to know the differences when treating these diagnoses. This … [Read more...]
Concussion Protocols for Physical Therapists
Concussion symptoms are typically temporary. Severe concussions or multiple concussions may cause lasting long-term effects on the chemical balance and overall function of the brain.What is a concussion? A concussion is a form of a traumatic brain injury (TBI) caused by a direct trauma to the head. This trauma could be from a fall, a hit, or whiplash (i.e., from a car accident) injuries. This force causes the brain to move rapidly back and forth within … [Read more...]
Memorial Day and the Impact of War
The Impact of War on Occupational & Physical Therapy. The demand for both occupational and physical therapy grew throughout the war.World War I had a profound impact on both the occupational therapy and physical therapy professions. The war presented significant challenges for rehabilitating injured soldiers, leading to the emergence and development of these therapeutic disciplines. Occupational therapy pioneers, such as Eleanor Clarke Slagle and … [Read more...]
What is Trigger Point Therapy?
Trigger points can happen almost anywhere in the body. Any small area of tension within a muscle can be a trigger point.What are trigger points? Trigger points are areas of the fascia or muscle that are often stiff and tight. The feeling is often described as a “knot” in the muscle. These areas tend to be a focal point of pain for patients. There at two types of trigger points noted in literature: active or latent. Active trigger points will have pain … [Read more...]
How to Perform a Shoulder Impingement Test
Shoulder impingement can be segmented into three categories based on severity.What is shoulder impingement? Shoulder impingement syndrome (SIS) is one of the most commonly occurring shoulder dysfunctions, making up between 44-65% of all shoulder pain complaints. This condition typically presents with pain around the shoulder joint, and restricted joint movement, especially overhead. There are several risk factors for developing shoulder impingement, … [Read more...]