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  • SERVICES
    • Breastfeeding support
    • Prenatal Care
    • Postpartum Care
    • Pelvic Health
    • Myofunctional Release
    • Infant Feeding
    • Orthopedic
    • Dry Needling
    • Mental Health
  • OUR TEAM
    • ADMINISTRATION
    • OFFICE TEAM
    • THERAPY TEAM
  • ABOUT US
    • TESTIMONIALS
  • CONTACT US
    • REFER A FRIEND
  • Blog
  • Calendar of Events

The Women's center was developed to provide care for women in a supportive, empowering, safe and effective way.  

OUR BLOG INTENDS TO SUPPORT THAT CARE WITH PROFESSIONAL, EVIDENCE-BASED, APPROACHABLE INFORMATION. 

April 11, 2024

4/16/2024

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A Beginner’s Guide to Dry Needling

Have you ever heard of dry needling? You may think to yourself- I’ve heard of Acupuncture, is it the same?    Great question!   It is not the same but it is similar.  It is actually a therapeutic technique that’s gaining popularity in the world of physical therapy and pain management. In this blog, we’ll dive into what dry needling is all about, how it works, its benefits, potential risks, and what the research says about its efficacy.
What is Dry Needling?
Dry needling involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points in your body, typically known as trigger points or myofascial trigger points. These trigger points are knots or tight bands of muscle tissue that can cause pain and restrict movement. Unlike acupuncture, which is rooted in traditional Chinese medicine and focuses on balancing the body’s energy flow, dry needling is based on modern anatomical and neurophysiological principles.  Both are extremely effective they just work on very different issues. 
How is it Used?
During a dry needling session, a trained practitioner will locate these trigger points by palpating your muscles. Once identified, they will gently insert a thin needle directly into the trigger point. The needle may be manipulated to stimulate the muscle, causing it to twitch or release tension. This process can help to alleviate pain, improve range of motion, and promote healing.  It is often asked if dry needling is painful.  It makes sense that inserting a needle into an area that is already painful or restricted would cause more pain.  The truth is that these needles are so so fine that it is rarely even felt when they are inserted.  This method is used mostly for pain relief!  But as tension is released, soreness can sometimes occur- the same as if you had a big workout session.  
Benefits of Dry Needling
One of the primary benefits of dry needling is pain relief. By targeting trigger points, it can help to reduce muscle tightness and spasms, which are often associated with chronic pain conditions such as neck pain, back pain, and headaches. Additionally, dry needling can improve blood flow and promote the release of endorphins, your body’s natural painkillers, providing further relief.  Have Migraines??  Dry needling has been working wonders in the relief of these debilitating headaches.
Contraindications and Potential Risks
While dry needling is generally safe when performed by a qualified practitioner, there are some contraindications to consider. For example, if you have a bleeding disorder or are taking blood-thinning medication, dry needling may not be suitable for you. Additionally, pregnant women should exercise caution, especially when needles are inserted near the abdomen or lower back. Some people may experience temporary soreness or bruising at the needle insertion site, but serious complications are rare.
Efficacy: What Does the Research Say?
Numerous studies have investigated the efficacy of dry needling for various musculoskeletal conditions, and the results are promising. For example, a systematic review published in the Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy found strong evidence supporting the use of dry needling for reducing pain and improving function in individuals with neck and shoulder pain. Similarly, research published in the Journal of Manual & Manipulative Therapy suggests that dry needling can be an effective treatment for chronic low back pain.


Now to bring the point home.  Dry needling is just one of the tools that we, physical therapists, have in our tool belt to help you.  It can help to alleviate pain, improve range of motion, and promote healing. This is not a new technique but it is gaining traction in desirability and the research is there to back up its efficacy.  It is not a cure-all and it is not meant to compete with Acupuncture.  However, if you are suffering from pain, headaches, limited range of motion- you owe it to yourself to give us a call and see if this treatment method is right for you. If you are already receiving PT, ask your therapist if this is something to add into your treatment plan.   
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March 26, 2024

3/26/2024

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Caring For Aging Parents: It Is Hard And Often Lonely; But Help Is Here ​!

Finding yourself in charge of caring for your parents often happens fast and it can be surprising how hard this shift in relationship dynamic really is.  While most of us will experience this at some point in our lives, it is rarely talked about.  So suddenly you find yourself in this season of life and do not know what to do, who to ask, and how to get the support you need.  I wanted to shine a light on this topic today and let you know that help is actually right here.

As our parents age, it can be a difficult and emotional journey for both the elderly individuals and their caregivers. The challenges faced with aging parents are numerous and can be overwhelming at times. From physical limitations to cognitive decline, it can feel like an uphill battle to ensure the well-being and happiness of our loved ones.
One of the biggest challenges faced with aging parents is the decline in physical health and mobility. As our parents age, they may become more prone to falls, muscle weakness, and joint pain. This can greatly impact their ability to perform everyday tasks and maintain their independence. As caregivers, it is our responsibility to ensure that our elderly parents have the support they need to stay mobile and active.

This is where physical therapy plays a vital role in the care of aging parents. Physical therapy can help improve mobility, reduce pain, and prevent further decline in physical health. Physical therapists are trained to assess the individual needs of elderly patients and create personalized treatment plans to help them regain strength and independence.
Another main consideration is how to most effectively help your aging parent through tasks at home.   What is the right way to help a person get into and out of bed or off the toilet, not to mention safety with shower transfers.   Not only is it daunting to try to learn these new skills but often caregivers injure themselves trying to manage these tasks. Now What!   Physical Therapists are able to help with both of these things.   PTs are able to teach you how to use the best body mechanics to ensure that you and your parent are safe during these transfers.  And in the event that you may find yourself injured or achy, they can also help you recover.   

In addition to physical challenges, caregivers also face emotional challenges when caring for aging parents. It can be difficult to see our loved ones struggle with their health and well-being, and it can take a toll on our own mental and emotional health. It is important for caregivers to take care of themselves and seek support when needed.
It is important for healthcare providers and the community to recognize the challenges faced with aging parents and to offer support and resources to caregivers. By working together to support caregivers and provide quality care for aging parents, we can ensure that our loved ones age with dignity and grace.

If you are a caregiver for an aging parent, know that you are not alone! Reach out for support, take care of yourself, and remember that physical therapy can play a crucial role in ensuring the mobility and well-being of your loved one and provide support for you.  Together, we can navigate the challenges of caring for aging parents with compassion and understanding.    Do not hesitate to give us a call, we are here for you!  
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January 18, 2024.

1/18/2024

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 NAVIGATING THE CHALLENGES OF PARENTAL FATIGUE

The Holidays are finally over!  You ramped up everything for weeks to be ready for it from shopping, baking, cleaning.  You were able to navigate all the schedule changes and resultant meltdowns that come with the season with promises of family togetherness and joy in witnessing the magic reflected in your child’s eyes.   It was a whirlwind of wrapping paper, frosting, and maybe even travel.   And now you are thrust back into a schedule, a routine, and if you are like me- your head is spinning.    I don’t know about you, but I am exhausted!   So many of my conversations this week with other moms reveal the same sense of fatigue and brought me to the conclusion that it is so much more than just the holiday wrap up.    I believe that it really boils down to parental fatigue in general and wanted to talk about it today.
Parenting is a rewarding journey filled with love, laughter, and joy. However, it's not without its challenges. One common obstacle that many parents face is parental fatigue. This phenomenon goes beyond the ordinary tiredness that comes with a busy lifestyle. In this blog post, we'll delve into what parental fatigue is, explore its prevalence, and discuss effective strategies to reduce its impact.

What is Parental Fatigue?
You may be thinking to yourself that this sounds like another made up term to make people feel “seen”.   I wanted to dive into that.   Parental fatigue, or parental burnout is a term that I do see all over the place and it got me to thinking about burnout in general.  The clinical definition of burnout is as follows: Burnout, a syndrome characterized by “emotional exhaustion, depersonalization and a decrease in self-fulfillment,” is a result of chronic exposure to emotionally draining environments (Rionda, I. S., et al., International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, Vol. 18, No. 9, 2021).   I realized that yes, I was completely on board with labeling my total experience and the feelings that so many women have shared with me as Parental Fatigue or Parental burnout. What we are talking about goes far beyond the occasional sleepless night and results from a combination of stressors such as constant caregiving responsibilities, lack of personal time, and the emotional demands of parenting.  Sometimes having a name that fully encapsulates feelings, emotions, and stressors is helpful.
How Common is Parental Fatigue?
Parental fatigue is more common than many might realize. A study published in the Journal of Child and Family Studies found that a significant number of parents experience symptoms of burnout. Factors such as the age of the children, the number of children, and support systems in place can contribute to the prevalence of parental fatigue.
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Factors Contributing to Parental Fatigue:
  •     Constant Caregiving Responsibilities: The demands of looking after children, managing household chores, and balancing work can lead to chronic fatigue.
  •     Lack of Personal Time: Parents often find it challenging to carve out time for themselves, leading to increased stress and exhaustion.
  •     Emotional Demands: Dealing with the emotional needs of children, coupled with societal pressures, can contribute to parental burnout.


Strategies to Decrease Parental Fatigue:
  •     Prioritize Self-Care: It's crucial for parents to prioritize self-care. This includes getting adequate sleep, engaging in activities they enjoy, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.  It also means setting boundaries for your time with yourself and with your family.   When you have time to yourself, make the most of it.  Even if this just means mindful breath work while you're in the car alone.
  •     Establish a Support System: Building a network of friends, family, or other parents can provide emotional support and shared experiences, reducing feelings of isolation.
  •     Effective Communication: Open communication with your partner about responsibilities, expectations, and challenges can foster a sense of teamwork, alleviating individual burdens.
  •     Set Realistic Expectations: It's essential to recognize that perfection is unattainable. Setting realistic expectations for oneself and accepting imperfections can reduce the pressure leading to parental burnout.


Parental fatigue is a common challenge that many parents face.  Hopefully realizing that you are not alone in these feelings can help.  By understanding the concept, communication among friends and partners can be easier.   Embracing this as part of the season of childrearing can give you perspective on its longevity and hopefully bring comfort that it will pass.   By prioritizing self-care, establishing a support system, communicating effectively, and setting realistic expectations, we can navigate the journey of parenthood with greater resilience and joy. Remember, taking care of yourself is not a luxury but a necessity for providing the best care for your children.  We are here to help!   Take a moment to browse our website for all the ways we can support you.  

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August 08th, 2023

8/8/2023

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Does Your Pelvic Floor Really Matter? FACT  VS  FAD

It seems that everywhere you turn, there is an article about the pelvic floor or something.   Every woman's publication is talking about it, there are blogs all over the internet about it, and every PT clinic seems to be promoting it.   The reality is that women's health on a whole has been on the back burner since the beginning of modern medicine.  Many challenges that women face are chalked up to a typical experience of female puberty, then childbearing, then menopause, then aging.   Rarely do issues rise to a level of “No you don't have to just deal with this.”  So the fact that pelvic floor dysfunction is getting so much attention, well we say “IT'S ABOUT TIME!”   Time for our health to take a front row seat, time for you to stop waiting to take care of yourself, time for you to stop just putting up with it!

What is the pelvic floor anyway?  
The pelvic floor is a complex set of muscles ( deep and superficial transverse perineal muscles, piriformis, coccygeus, levator ani, obturator internus, bulbospongiosus, ischiocavernosus) ligaments, and tendons.     It is located between the “sit” bones side to side, the pubic bone in the front and the tail bone in the back.    It is part of what is considered your core muscles.    

The pelvic floor acts as a hammock to support the organs held in that cavity- bowels, bladder, and uterus mainly.  This support not only helps hold the organs in place but helps to absorb outside pressures from lifting, coughing, sneezing, etc in a way that minimizes downward pressure and protects those organs.  It has 4 other main functions to include stability- as a core muscle the pelvic floor stabilizes our pelvis and low back.  Next is sphincteric- controlling the release of urine, feces, and gas.   Followed by sexual function and lastly circulation- assisting with blood flow returning to the heart. 

Is pelvic floor dysfunction really as common as its being made out to be?
Actually it is!    According to UCLAHealth, 1 in 3 women will experience a pelvic floor disorder in her lifetime.    On a side note, the pelvic floor is also present in males and while we are focusing on women in this post, it is important to note that according to the Mayo Clinic, roughly 16% of males struggle with pelvic floor challenges.    Overall a massive amount of our population is affected by dysfunction of the pelvic floor, it deserves all of the attention it is getting. 


 What does pelvic floor dysfunction look like?  
Most people think about incontinence immediately when they hear pelvic floor problems.   This is true!  Leakage of urine is a common symptom that affects around 50% of women according to the Mayo Clinic  You see commercials for products to assist with this daily on TV so this topic is a little more socially acceptable but did you know that leakage of feces is also due to pelvic floor dysfunction and affects up to 1 in 4 women at some point in their lives!  Now no one wants to talk about that!
Maybe you have heard about organ prolapse in relation to pelvic floor dysfunction and this is also true.   Your uterus or bladder can literally drop down and bulge through the protective layer of the pelvic floor muscles and into the vagina!   Now do I have your attention that the pelvic floor deserves a lot of respect?

Rectal prolapse is not as often discussed but it is also related to pelvic floor dysfunction.  Rectal prolapse is when the rectum turns inside out and bulges through the anus.  Who wants to deal with that?

Painful intercourse is a symptom of pelvic floor dysfunction.  From adhesions, to limited range of motion and spastic muscles; there are many reasons why sex may be painful.  None of the reasons have to do with a woman just needing to relax.  Enough of that!

Pelvic and low back instability and pain are more often discussed but not often realized as a disorder of the pelvic floor.   Our pelvic floor is just muscles, ligaments and tendons.  It is a central part of the core muscles and without stability, pain happens.  

OK! The Pelvic Floor is Important. Kegels are Enough to Keep It Working Well, Right??
So strengthening the muscles of the pelvic floor is super important.   Kegels is one way to strengthen but it is not the only way and most women are doing kegels wrong.  Anyone who has tried to take an exercise class knows that the instructor is steadily correcting techniques of all participants in the room the whole time and the same is true for engaging the pelvic floor muscles.  Most women need help to learn the best technique.  

Also sometimes the muscles of the pelvic floor are actually really tight, just like hamstrings on many people.   When a muscle is so shortened, or tight, it is hard to engage it fully.   First you must learn how to lengthen it, then work on strengthening it.  Unlike a hamstring however, it is really not so easy to know if your pelvic floor muscles are tight.   Most people require the use of equipment to understand how to fully and properly engage those muscles.  This is called Biofeedback and works by providing a visual display of the muscle contraction and relaxation for muscle memory training.  This is a painless process and highly impactful.  

Being able to engage a strong contraction, strength, is only part of the equation when it comes to functional outcomes.   Endurance, how long you can hold that contraction, is also super important and has been correlated to sexual function, pain, instability, and incontinence.  

Another factor for improved pelvic floor function is range of motion of hip internal and external rotation, hip extension, and hip adduction.   Speaking of these motions, strength of each of those actions affects pelvic floor function greatly.  

Pelvic floor dysfunction can be related to scars and adhesions.   Scared tissue does not move the same way as other tissue and can restrict motion, restrict contraction/relaxation ability, and cause pain.   Adhesions are caused by micro and macro traumas of tissues and can negatively affect mobility causing pain.   There are techniques for addressing scars and adhesions to improve mobility, decrease pain and allow for smooth engagement of the tissues again.

Most importantly, strength is not the only thing that will improve pelvic floor function and most of the time, other body systems need to be incorporated into the strategy for optimal pelvic floor function.   

How Effective is Treatment for Pelvic Floor Dysfunction Actually?
This is the best news yet!   There are physical therapists who specialize in the treatment of pelvic floor dysfunction.   Under this directed care, most women report regaining full control of their bladder.  Definite decrease in frequency and amount of leakage.   PT has also been highly correlated to improved stability of the pelvic floor resulting in decreased pain and improved function.   Myofascial work for adhesion resolution and scar massage can drastically improve mobility and tissue alignment resulting in decreased pain.  PT is the standard of care for improving range of motion, strength and endurance.    

Each condition noted above from incontinence to pain with intercourse can positively be affected by working with a PT specialized in pelvic floor care.    You can avoid surgery, you can return to your chosen level of activity without use of absorbency pads, you can enjoy sex again!    Most women even report noticeable results after the first two treatment sessions.  

In conclusion- Yes the Pelvic Floor is Important!  Yes you Should Take Care of It!    Yes Results are Huge and Quick!    So Stop Waiting and Just Putting Up With It!!    We are the experts that you need! Let’s get you started now!

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