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Better Move for Better Health

           In a world characterized by lives mostly carried out sitting at a desk facing a computer, the importance of physical activity cannot be overstated. Regular exercise is not just a matter of staying fit; it is a fundamental pillar of overall health and well-being. Research consistently demonstrates the myriad benefits of physical activity, from enhancing cardiovascular health to boosting mental well-being. In this article, we explore the ways in which physical activity contributes to overall health, why incorporating it into our daily lives is crucial and how physical therapists can help.

 

           Physical activity plays a pivotal role in weight management and obesity prevention. Regular exercise provides a variety of benefits including but not limited to burning calories, building lean muscle mass, and regulating metabolism. Physical therapists can help by developing an exercise plan and/or appropriate alternative physical activities depending on the patient’s health status. Combining physical activity with a balanced diet is an effective strategy for achieving and maintaining a healthy weight. Moreover, maintaining a healthy weight is linked to a lower risk of chronic conditions such as diabetes and certain types of cancer.

            The connection between physical activity and mental well-being is well-established. Exercise releases endorphins, the body's natural mood lifters, which can help alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety. Additionally, regular physical activity improves cognitive function and reduces the risk of neurodegenerative diseases, enhancing overall brain health. The release of endorphins also contributes to pain relief in the body, allowing patients to feel better as well.

              Aside from therapeutic exercises, physical therapists utilize breathing techniques that can improve body wellness. Incorporating mindful breathing techniques, such as deep diaphragmatic breathing or meditation, alongside physical activity, can significantly reduce stress levels. Stress has profound implications for overall health, contributing to various chronic conditions. Mindful breathing fosters relaxation, activates the parasympathetic nervous system, and mitigates the detrimental effects of chronic stress.

              Weight-bearing exercises, such as running and resistance training, contribute to the development of strong bones and muscles. This is particularly important in preventing conditions like osteoporosis and frailty, especially as individuals age. Strength training exercises also support joint health and flexibility.

                Incorporating regular physical activity into our lives is an investment in our health that pays off in numerous ways. Whether through structured workouts, recreational activities, or simply incorporating more movement into daily routines, everyone can find a way to enjoy the transformative power of physical activity and unlock the full potential of a healthy and fulfilling life. Physical therapists have a duty to not only administer physical exercise but promote physical activity and wellness in their patients’ lives.

 

Works Cited: Mercer, Lily. The Role of Breathing in Physical Therapy. CoreMedical Group. https://www.coremedicalgroup.com/blog/role-breathing-physical-therapy Panchbudhe, Shweta & Kumar, Y & Choudhary, Sachin & Chiwhane, Anjalee. (2020). Role of Physiotherapist to Promote Physical Activity in Physical Therapy Settings: Questionnaire Study. International Journal of Current Research and Review. 50-55. 10.31782/IJCRR.2020.5055.

October is National Physical Therapy Month

Every year on the month of October, Physical Therapists from different practice settings around the nation celebrate the National Physical Therapy Month. This year’s theme focuses on the value of physical therapy. Physical therapy offers many benefits to patients of all ages. It helps improve a patient’s mobility and function and plays a role in improving fitness, wellness, and quality of life. Physical Therapists are movement experts that are highly trained in the evaluation and assessment of various musculoskeletal, neurologic, and geriatric conditions. In partnership with patients, Physical Therapists develop goals, plan of care, and, with physical therapy assistants, provide individualized physical therapy treatment program for patients. The American Physical Therapy Association released an article aiming to raise awareness on the benefits of physical therapy:

1. Improve Mobility Physical therapists can help in improving mobility by identifying, evaluating, and treatment of movement problems and improve function.

 

2. Improve Physical Activity and Promote Wellness Studies have shown that regular physical activity improves physical, mental, and emotional well-being. It also prevents chronic medical problems such as heart disease, diabetes, and hypertension. Physical therapists’ knowledge and expertise in movement and exercise can help in overcoming barriers to regular physical activity and promote wellness.

 

3. Help Manage Pain Physical therapists use different modalities to help decrease musculoskeletal pain and may reduce use of risky pain medications.

 

4. Recover After Surgery After surgery, physical therapists can help you recover and restore function and mobility

 

5. Prevent and/or Recover from Injury After an injury, physical therapists can help by addressing pain symptoms, limitations in mobility and provide physical therapy care and patient education on preventing further injury.

 

The Healthy People 2030 continues to monitor how communities address equitable access to basic care to improve health and wellness. At Kinesioworks Physical Therapy, we continue to strive and find ways to serve and provide the best evidence-based care for our patients in the Heights and neighboring communities of New York City by collaborating with local health care facilities in the community.

July 4, 2023

Wishing Everyone a

We Honor

Memorial Day

May 29, 2023

 

 

 

Today we honor and give thanks to those who gave, in service for our country. We salute you!

Honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

January 16, 2023

Today, we honor the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.!



What A Race!

November 12, 2022

Congratulations to our very own Dr. Vincent Sto Tomas, PT, DPT for completing the 2022 New York City Marathon! As an avid runner, Dr. Vincent's has completed 3 NYC Marathons and 4 marathons by far! 


Inspired to run for fitness or to benefit a cause? Kinesioworks Physical Therapy can help you get started! Already a competitive and seasoned runner? We can help you improve running mechanics and performance! We now offer the 3D Running Gait Analysis powered by RunDNA! With the power of 3D technology, we can assess your running biomechanics, analyze patterns, and recommend strategies and running program to improve your running performance. Call us now to schedule your appointment! 



Our Heartfelt Gratitude

November 11, 2022

Our heartfelt gratitude goes out to our men and women in uniform and their families for their service and sacrifice. 

We thank you!



Bed-Stuy Heritage 5K

July 24, 2022

Congratulations to one of our clients for successfully completing the First Bed-Stuy Heritage 5K Run organized by RunSignUp along with our very own Dr. Vincent Sto Tomas. The event was held in Stuyvesant Heights section of Brooklyn on July 24, 2024.


Inspired to run for fitness or to benefit a cause? Kinesioworks Physical Therapy can help you get started! Already a competitive and seasoned runner?  We can help you improve running mechanics and performance! Our 3D Running Gait Analysis is coming soon! Stay tuned for more details!




Happy Independence Day!

July 4, 2022

Wishing everyone a Happy 4th of July!




Celebrating Juneteenth!

June 19, 2022

Happy Juneteenth!


Photo credit: Image by khema sok from https://pixabay.com/illustrations/juneteenth-racism-slavery-freedom-7264956/


Happy Fathers' Day!

June 19, 2022

Wishing all dads out there a Happy and Blessed Fathers' Day! 


Photo credit: Image by alexandra koch from https://pixabay.com/illustrations/father-s-day-father-tie-dad-map-5264164/


Remembering Those Who Served

May 30,2022

This Memorial Day, we keep in our hearts the men and women in uniform who have sacrificed to defend our freedom. Our thoughts are with their families and we pray for the safe return of those who are currently serving.



Great season for cycling!

May 14,2022

Congratulations to our very own Dr. Vincent for completing the recently concluded TD NYC 5 Boro Bike Tour!

Now that NYC 5-Boro Bike Tour has just finished and the GFNY Cycling is just around the corner, it is just timely to talk about cycling. Whether outdoor or indoor, cycling is a great sport and physical activity. Over the years, the health and societal benefits of cycling has been well documented in research (Kotler, Babu, and Robidoux, 2016). It has been shown to improve overall fitness, decrease risk of cardiovascular disease, obesity and cancer (Chavarrias et al, 2019). Societal benefits of cycling include reduced in air pollution, and decreased traffic accidents (Kotler, Babu, and Robidoux, 2016). Given its benefits, cycling also poses risk of injury. To prevent and/or minimize the risk of physical injury from cycling, there are some important factors to consider: type of cycling (recreational, transportation, competitive) which dictate the right gear, equipment to use and the skills required; nutrition and hydration; proper training; and proper gear.

Bike fit is another important factor to consider in cycling. Bike fit is the interface between the bicycle and the cyclist that affects the cyclist’s biomechanics (Kotler, Babu, and Robidoux, 2016). It includes the selection of bicycle’s frame geometry, saddle pedal system, and shape of handle bar based on the desired body position and function (Kotler, Babu, and Robidoux, 2016). Proper bike fit allows for comfort, efficiency and power generation (Kotler, Babu, and Robidoux, 2016).



Happy MLK Day!

January 17, 2022




Happy Thanksgiving!

November 25, 2021

Wishing everyone a healthy, safe, and happy Thanksgiving!

 


Honoring our Veterans!

November 11, 2021

To all our veterans, thank you for your sacrifice and bravery. 

 


Thank You!

May 31, 2021

We take a moment to remember, honor and give thanks to the men and women in uniform and their families who selflessly serve our country.

 


Honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

January 18, 2021

Today, we honor and remember the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. as we set our mission to serve the community of the Heights. 

 


Happy and Healthy New Year To All!

November 26, 2020

With the year 2020 all behind us, we look forward to 2021 with the hope of new beginnings. From KinesioWorks Physical Therapy, PC, a Happy and Blessed New Year to you and your families!

 


Happy Thanksgiving Day!

November 26, 2020

Wishing everyone  a safe and healthy Thanksgiving! 

Salute to All Veter

November 11, 2020

We thank you for your service to our country. God bless!

Happy 244th Birthday USA!

July 4, 2020

Wishing everyone a healthy, safe, and happy 4th of July celebration!



Mitigation Practices That Help Prevent the Spread of COVID-19 

July 3, 2020

Based from current news we read, hear and see everyday, it seems that the COVID-19 pandemic will not be over anytime soon. However, the spread of infection may be reduced and or prevented by observing and following mitigation practices recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and health agencies' guidelines. 

A systematic review of 172 studies in health-care and non health-care settings in 16 countries and a meta-analysis of 44 comparative studies were conducted by Chu et. al. (2020). Results of the systematic review and meta-analysis suggest that physical distancing of 1 to 2 meters (3 to 6 feet); use of face masks (N95, 12-16 layer cotton or gauze masks); and use of eye protection devices (goggles, face shields) are the three simple and common practices that help mitigate the spread of infection based on the best available evidence and global collaborative efforts (Chu et. al., 2020).


Reference:

Chu, D. K., Akl, E. A., Duda, S., Solo, K., Yaacoub, S., Schünemann, H. J., & COVID-19 Systematic Urgent Review Group Effort (SURGE) study authors (2020). Physical distancing, face masks, and eye protection to prevent person-to-person transmission of SARS-CoV-2 and COVID-19: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Lancet (London, England), 395(10242), 1973–1987. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0140-6736(20)31142-9


We Honor Those Who Serve

May 25, 2020

As we observe Memorial Day, we thank and honor the men and women in uniform and their families who selflessly served for our country.

New CDC Recommendation on Wearing Cloth Face Covering 

April 4, 2020

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention released a  statement on April 3, 2020 recommending the use of cloth face coverings that may help prevent or slow down the spread of coronavirus. For more information on the CDC recommendation, please click the link below.

 

The following link from CDC provides instructions on how to create your own cloth face covering:

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/diy-cloth-face-coverings.html

An Update for Healthcare Providers in New York State 

April 2, 2020

As a provider of physical services in New York State and as a fulfillment of our commitment to our patients and staff, we at KinesioWorks Physical Therapy continue to update ourselves with the latest information and guidelines about the Coronavirus 19 pandemic (Covid-19) provided by the New York State Department of Health, and other city, state, and federal health and government agencies. Please click on the link below: An Update for NYS Healthcare Providers on Covid-19 https://youtu.be/vwGsmiNcvPw


A Message to Our Patients and Families

March 2020

Dear Patients and Families,

We at KinesioWorks Physical Therapy, PC highly prioritize and are committed to the health and wellness of our patients and staff. We continue to monitor the events related to the spread of the novel coronavirus-19 (COVID-19) and update ourselves with the most recent guidelines issued by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), New York Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, and the state and federal government agencies.

Due to the manner the coronavirus spreads, we continue to adhere and implement the best health and hygiene practices to prevent the spread of the virus and most contagious diseases. In addition to regularly cleaning and disinfecting all equipment and surfaces after every use, hand sanitizers and/or disinfecting hand wipes will be made available for patient use.

As per the CDC guidelines, having a healthy and hygiene practices may help prevent or reduce the risk of getting infected. Some of these practices include, but not limited to:

1.Washing your hands frequently especially before meals, after using the bathroom, after you sneeze or cough (Mineo, 2020).

2.Avoid touching your face with unclean hands.

3.Cleaning frequently touched surfaces or objects daily such as tables, countertops, doorknobs and handles, and cabinet handles.

4.Covering your cough or sneeze with your elbow or tissue and then promptly throwing the tissue into the garbage receptacle.

 

Please visit the link below for a more detailed and complete guidelines from the CDC on how to protect yourself at home, at work, and in the community.

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/index.html

 

We all play an important role in the prevention of coronavirus disease. Together, we will get through this global pandemic.

 

From your family at KinesioWorks Physical Therapy, P.C.

 

Resources:

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2020). Get Your Household Ready for Coronavirus Disease 2019. Available at:

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/index.html

Mineo, L. How to reduce the spread of coronavirus. (2020). The Harvard Gazette. Available at: https://harvard.edu/gazette/story/2020/03/preventing-the-spread-of-coronavirus-starts-with-basic-hygiene/

 

 

Success in the 2019 New York City Marathon!

January 2020

It was a great run on a great day at the 2019 New York City Marathon held last November 4, 2019. Our very own, Dr. Vincent Sto Tomas, ran the famous NYC marathon for the time with a great finish! A total of 26.2 miles that stretches along all NYC five boroughs were tracked by runners from all over the world! A big shout out to all the participants in the NYC marathon!


How to Prevent Injuries When Running During the Winter Months


The cold winter days are inevitably upon us and it’s sure to pose challenges with your training and races. The good news is we can prevent injuries and have a successful run by following some simple preventive tips and common sense:

1.Check the weather. While running outdoors in cold temperatures are generally considered safe, it is important to know that at any temperature below 60 degrees Fahrenheit, there is the potential for runners to sustain non-freezing injuries such as chilblains hypothermia and freezing injuries such as frostbite especially when the temperature hits below 32 degrees Fahrenheit. Always check the weather and outdoor temperature before heading out to train or to your race. Be sure to know the “feels like” temperature considering the wind chill factor. It is best to monitor the weather forecast at least a week to a few days before and on the day of your run or training. Knowing the weather ahead will help you prepare for your gear.

2.Consider an indoor activity as an alternative to running outdoors. This is strongly encouraged especially when outside temperature is below 32 degrees Fahrenheit. If you have a subscription to a local gym, by all means, take advantage of your membership for your training.

3.Gear up. Running hats, gloves, neck warmer, proper running footwear, and hand warmers are just some of the common items you may need to have when you plan to run outdoors. Choosing the right running footwear with good traction is especially important when running on snow-covered ground to prevent slipping.

4.Stay Hydrated. Keeping yourself hydrated and maintaining an appropriate energy balance are very important to keep you running and can help regulate body temperature and may prevent hypothermia. It is recommended to take 17-20 oz. of fluid (such as water or sports drink) 2-3 hours before the physical activity or exercise and 7-10 fl.oz every 10-20 mins during exercise or physical activity (Casa et. al., 2000)

Source:

Casa, D., Armstrong, L.E., Hillman, S.K., Montain S.J., Reiff, R.V., Rich, B.S.,...Stone, J.A. (2000). National Athletic Trainer's Association position statemet: Fluid replacement for athletes. Journal of Athletic Training, 35(2), pp. 212-224.

University of Wisconsin-Madison (2019). Training tips for runners: Weather conditions and winter running. Available at: https://www.uwhealth.org/sports-medicine/physical-therapy-athletic-training/runners-education-marathon-training-in-cold-weather-weather-considerations/35986




Why does your Physical Therapist ask About Your Diet?

January 2020

Happy New Year!


With the festive holidays behind us, the new year offers new hopes and opportunities especially in making positive changes about our personal health and wellbeing. Certainly, diet and nutrition are just some of the keys toward health and wellness.

It is not uncommon that most patients wonder why does a physical therapist (PTs) ask for a patient’s diet. While it is generally known that PTs work on bone, joint and muscle disorders, PTs provide evaluation and treatment to their patients in a holistic approach (Phadke, 2017). The holistic approach to physical therapy evaluation and treatment views the patient as a whole encompassing all human body systems that work together and affect each other one way or another. Having said that, a patient’s diet affects a lot of body systems which in turn has an impact on a patient’s physical, mental, social and emotional functioning as well as response to treatment. For instance, poor and unhealthy diet is considered as one of the major modifiable risk factors for developing cardiovascular and cerebrovascular disorders such as heart disease and diabetes. Your physical therapist needs to know and consider these factors that may affect treatment outcomes (Phadke, 2017).

Ref: Phadke C. P. (2017). Why Should Physical Therapists Care about Their Patients' Diet?. Physiotherapy Canada. Physiotherapie Canada, 69(2), 99–103. doi:10.3138/ptc.69.2.GEE



Happy Holidays!

December 2019

We wish you all a Blessed and Happy Holidays!



Enjoy the Holidays!

November 28, 2019

From our KinesioWorks Physical Therapy family to yours, a Happy Thanksgiving!



Musculoskeletal Ultrasound (MSKUS) and Myofascial Trigger Points (MTrPs)

June 11, 2019


MSKUS is a diagnostic tool used specifically to assess integrity and diagnose injuries or pathologies that affect musculoskeletal tissues. MSKUS technology has been used to assess MTrP and describe its characteristics as well as the characteristics of the surrounding muscle tissue.2 MSKUS is considered as one of the most safe, convenient, practical, and inexpensive imaging technique to assess MTrP. MSKUS has been shown to demonstrate the difference between a normal myosfascial tissue and that of mysofascial tissue with MTrP.2 As seen in the image above, MSKUS imaging revealed MTrP as hypoechoic palpable nodules in the myofascial tissue.2 The upper trapezius muscle is the most commonly affected muscle for MTrPs and is most commonly located at a site midway from C7 and the acromion process.2 Physical therapists may consider this finding as a precise target treatment area and monitoring of treatment outcomes.2


References:

1) Shah JP, Thaker N, Heimur J, Aredo JV, Sikdar S, Gerber L. Myofascial Trigger Points Then and Now: A Historical and Scientific Perspective. PM R. 2015;7(7):746-761.

2) Sikdar S, Shah JP, Gebreab T, et al. Novel applications of ultrasound technology to visualize and characterize myofascial trigger points and surrounding soft tissue. Arch Phys Med Rehabil.

2009;90(11):1829-38.


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