Leisure Physical Therapy - March 2020

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THE LEISURE PT LEDGER

LEISURE PT

MARCH 2020

WWW.LEISUREPHYSICALTHERAPY.COM | 631-821-8090

A PASSION FOR SCIENCE AND FAITH: DR. SCOTT PASKIEWICZ’S ORIGIN STORY

into the activities you love most. Sports have been an incredible part of my life. I used to be a triathlete and did half an Ironman Triathlon. This April, my son and I will be doing a liveaboard, which is a 7-day scuba diving trip while living on a boat. It’s tough when you’re

therapist, and I loved the happy environment. They created a safe space where I felt welcome while physically recovering, and that was really appealing to me. After deliberation and prayer, I decided upon my career in physical therapy.

When it comes to the power of physical therapy, there’s always one case I think of. Right after I got my advanced certification in vertigo, one woman really proved to me how life- changing that information can be. For 20 years, she couldn’t lie down on her side because of her vertigo. We fixed that issue in one session. school, I excelled in biology and anatomy. My mother was a nurse, so I was always around a clinical environment one way or another. One of my first jobs was working at a beach and tennis club, and there were a lot of doctors there. They gave me a lot of advice about the medical field, which fueled my curiosity from school. I ended up drawn to the idea of physical therapy because it was so flexible. At the same time, though, I also wanted to be a pastor. I had planned to go on a missionary trip my junior year of college. but that changed when my girlfriend (now wife) became diagnosed with Crohn's disease. She needed to be geographically stable, and the life of a pastor isn’t guaranteed to be that way. I’ve always had a passion for my faith, so I was at a crossroads. Then, while playing for my high school tennis team, I hurt my shoulder. I ended up going to a physical Science has always fascinated me because of its potential. Even in high

injured because often, you don’t really want to spend that time

Going to school and getting my doctorate from the University of St. Augustine wasn’t necessarily the end of my education. I still

resting; you want to get back into action.

I’m excited to share a lot of things with you, friends. From physical

study all the time. I’ve earned certifications for every single field of physical therapy I practice

therapy tips to sharing the incredible work being done by Kaya’s Kids and building schools in Africa, we don’t take education and sharing knowledge for granted. Until our next issue, whether you want to jump back to a sport or get a good night’s rest, I want you to know that everyone at our clinic is excited to help you. There’s nothing like waking up and feeling less pain than you did yesterday. Meet our team of experts at Leisure Physical Therapy by calling 631-821-8090 to easily make an appointment.

because I don’t rely on “learning on the job” tactics like other clinics, and I require the same of all our therapists. Our clinic will never give you varying levels of quality therapy. We strive for excellence every single time you come in. That’s why I needed to break off from corporate hospitals and create my own clinic. I was an assistant director in a hospital in my second year of work, and I think the crowded and fast-paced environment can really make a clinician lose their personal connection with a patient.

Have a wonderful April!

I know how tough it is when you’re injured but just want to jump back

–Dr. Scott Paskiewicz

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WHAT DO YOU KNOWABOUT POISON IVY? LEAVES OF 3, LEAVE THEMBE

YOU CANNOT BECOME IMMUNE TO POISON IVY.

Meditation has different meanings for different people. Traditionally, the act of focusing one’s mind has been used in religious and spiritual practices around the globe. More recently, it’s become a popular method of relaxation. Now, new research shows that this ancient practice may have yet another benefit: pain management. In 2008, the Medical Expenditure Panel Survey found that over 100 million adults in the U.S. suffer from chronic pain due to conditions like arthritis and debilitating injuries. Because of this, care providers have become focused on finding ways to help patients manage these persistent aches. The sensation of pain is caused by a complex interaction of biological and The days are getting longer, the temperature is rising, and the great outdoors are calling your name. It’s time to start planning your summer adventures! Just remember to watch out for the enemy of all outdoor enthusiasts: poison ivy. Found in every state except Hawaii and Alaska, poison ivy — or more accurately, the rash- causing urushiol oil on its leaves — can quickly ruin a trip. Before you head out on your next outdoor adventure, make sure you get your facts straight. Many people believe the poison ivy rash can spread if the blisters pop, but the only thing that can cause the rash is urushiol oil. This is why it’s so important to clean your skin and wash your clothes as soon as possible. Urushiol oil can spread onto objects like doors or chairs, and you don’t have to touch poison ivy to have a reaction to urushiol oil. THE POISON IVY RASH IS NOT CONTAGIOUS.

cognitive factors, leading scientists to study how mental exercises like meditation can aid in pain relief. Anecdotal evidence regarding meditation’s ability to reduce pain has existed for as long as the practice itself. However, modern technology has given researchers the means to accurately measure the effectiveness of this age- old tradition. The Department of Health and Human Services has cited MRI brain scans as proof that meditation can lead to moderate pain reduction. These scans revealed that the same areas of the brain stimulated by painkillers are activated when the mind is in a meditative state. This supports the accounts of those who have reported better functionality after meditative sessions. Urushiol oil triggers an allergic reaction in 85% of people, leading to the ensuing rash. Some people believe regular exposure to poison ivy can help develop an immunity to urushiol oil, but this isn’t the case. In fact, it’s just the opposite. About 15% of the population isn’t allergic to poison ivy, but the allergy can develop over time. The more you’re exposed to poison ivy, the worse your outbreak can become. IF YOU TOUCH POISON IVY, DO NOT POUR URINE ON YOUR SKIN TO PREVENT THE RASH. Urine, vinegar, dirt, bleach, and even gasoline are common “treatments” for preventing or curing a poison ivy rash. None of these are effective, and some can really hurt you. If you’ve been exposed to poison ivy, your best course of action is to wash your skin with soap and water. Cleaning off

the urushiol oil within 20 minutes of exposure can greatly decrease your odds of developing a rash. When all is said and done, the best way to treat poison ivy is to avoid it altogether. The next time you’re exploring the great outdoors, just remember: Leaves of three, leave them be.

PRACTICE PAIN RELIEF THE BENEFITS OF MEDITATION

With the ongoing tragedy of the opioid crisis, there is a dire need for pain management strategies that are noninvasive and not habit-forming, such as physical therapy. Meditation is easily accessible and can be used in conjunction with other pain relief strategies. Whether you sign up for guided meditation sessions, download one of the many mindfulness apps on the market today, or simply make time to sit and clear your mind for 30 minutes, it’s easy to add meditation to your normal routine.

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FACT VS. FICTION: THE MEDITERRANEAN DIET AN EASY WAY TO EAT HEALTHIER FOR YOUR HEART

While the basis of the Mediterranean diet has been a staple in its titular region for centuries, it wasn’t until the 1960s that nutritionists popularized the concept in Western culture. Doctors noticed that Mediterranean countries like Greece and Italy have fewer heart disease- related deaths than the U.S. and northern Europe. When they looked to regional eating habits for answers, they found a common plant-based diet rich in healthy fats, seafood, and bread. However, in modern years, misconceptions plague the popular diet, so let’s clear some up. FALSE. There are no defined portion sizes for the Mediterranean diet. Instead, it comes with a loose guideline: Eat a plant-based diet of mostly fruits and vegetables with a weekly intake of fish, poultry, beans, and eggs. Dairy products are allowed in conservative amounts, but nutritionists discourage red MYTH NO. 1: IT’S RIGID.

MYTH NO. 3: NUTRITIONALLY, IT’S 30%–40% FAT.

meat intake whenever possible. To the delight of many Mediterranean dieters, a moderate amount of red wine is encouraged!

1. Heat oven to 400 F. 2. In a colander, toss eggplant, zucchini, and salt. Let sit for 30 minutes and pat dry. 3. In an ovenproof pot, heat 1/2 cup olive oil. Add half of eggplant mixture, stirring constantly for 5 minutes. Remove vegetables from pot. 4. Tie thyme sprigs together with kitchen twine. 5. In the same pot, heat remaining 1/4 cup olive oil, and cook onion, pepper, garlic, and thyme for 8–10 minutes. 6. Add half the tomatoes and cook for 5 minutes. 7. Stir in original eggplant and zucchini mixture and top with remaining tomatoes. Do not stir. 8. Transfer pot to oven and bake mixture for 15–20 minutes. 9. Remove pot from oven and remove thyme bundle before serving. TRUE. But be careful about which type of fat. The Mediterranean diet relies heavily on olive oil instead of butter or lard for cooking. Saturated fats, trans fats, or hydrogenated fats like palm oil don’t contribute positively to your heart health, but a diet based on natural fats can improve your overall cholesterol levels. Fatty fish are also crucial for the Mediterranean diet and include salmon, mackerel, herring, sardines, albacore, and lake trout. Thanks to omega-3 fatty acids, consumption of these fish improves your blood circulation and reduces inflammation in the body. If you’re concerned about your heart health, try out this plant-based diet with a focus on foods local to you for long- term health and delicious meals. Your body will thank you! RATATOUILLE DIRECTIONS Inspired by Bon Appétit

MYTH NO. 2: IT’S EXPENSIVE.

FALSE. You don’t have to eat only what’s native to the Mediterranean, so don’t swear off avocados just yet. Eat locally by choosing in-season fruits and vegetables that benefit your diet and your wallet. You’ll find that preparing meals centered on vegetables and whole grains is very affordable, especially when you get your grains from dry bulk bins. And while buying olives and cheese might be expensive, you can get away with buying small amounts. Try different brands of canned olives for affordable alternatives to bottled ones. Plus, some grocery stores place cheap cuts of their premium cheeses near the deli.

TAKE A BREAK!

INGREDIENTS

• 1 eggplant, peeled and chopped • 1 large zucchini, sliced into 1/4-inch- thick rounds • 2 tsp salt • 3/4 cup olive oil, divided • 5 sprigs thyme • 1 large onion, halved and sliced 1/2-inch thick • 1 red bell pepper, chopped • 2 garlic cloves, sliced • 2 pints cherry tomatoes

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631-821-8090 www.LeisurePhysicalTherapy.com

PRST STD US POSTAGE PAID BOISE, ID PERMIT 411

LEISURE PT

679 Whisky Rd. Ridge, NY 11961

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

1. COVER TITLE 1.

DR. SCOTT PASKIEWICZ’S ORIGIN STORY

2.

POISON IVY MYTHS

MEDITATION AND PAIN RELIEF

3.

HAVE YOU HEARD THESE MYTHS ABOUT THE MEDITERRANEAN DIET?

RATATOUILLE 4. GET FIT WITH FIDO

WELLNESS ANDWHISKERS 3 WAYS TOWORK OUT WITH YOUR PET Creating a healthy lifestyle is often easier with support, but if you’re

RACKING UP THE MILES A simple way to get moving with your pet is to go for a walk. If you’re looking for a bigger challenge, then try running, biking, or hiking with your pet. Anything beyond a walk may require extra obedience training or equipment — like a specialty tool that prevents your pet from colliding with your bike — but after a few loops around the trail, your pet will be begging to go again. And how can you say no to that face? Plus, this idea isn’t just for dogs. You can find leashes and harnesses for cats, lizards, ferrets, and other pets that love to get fresh air. GOING FOR A SWIM If you have a dog that appears to be more fish than canine, swimming might be the workout for you! Swimming is a joint-friendly cardiovascular exercise that works your entire body. If you’re not one

for a dip in the pool, then kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding are great for your arms and core. Meanwhile, your pet can enjoy a relaxing ride or an exciting game of fetch. Just be sure to secure your pet with a life jacket before you and your four-legged friend splash away! KEEPING IT TRADITIONAL If you want a good full-body workout while entertaining your pet, then consider including them in traditional exercises. Entertain your pup with a game of fetch and drop down for a burpee every time it runs away. Balance your bird on your shoulder while you squat and lunge. Mentally and physically stimulate your cat by dragging a string around your body during Russian twists. With a little creativity and a few of your pet’s favorite things, both of you can work up a sweat.

struggling to find someone to join you on your path to wellness, then look to your furry friends instead. Read on for some ways to get active with your pet, and learn more about their wellness and health at PetMD.com.

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