Newsletter About Your Health and Caring for Your Body by Repsher & Associates Physical Therapy
NEWSLETTER July 2025
Sprains Vs Strains Vs Repetitive Stress Injuries
Misspelled Mania: Win a $10 Starbucks Gift Card
Preventing Sprains, Strains, & RSIs
Holiday Recipe
518.634.5965 • WWW.REPSHERPT.COM
Sprains Vs Strains Vs Repetitive Stress Injuries
Strains • A strain is an injury to a muscle or tendon, the fibrous cords that attach muscles to bones. • Strains usually happen when a muscle is overstretched or overworked, causing the muscle fibers or tendon to tear. • Symptoms of a strain can include pain, muscle tightness, muscle weakness, and spasms. • Back strains are a frequent type of strain, often caused by improper lifting or sudden movements. Repetitive Stress Injuries (RSIs) • RSIs are a group of disorders that occur from repeated movements or overuse of a particular muscle, tendon, or nerve. • RSIs develop gradually over time, and symptoms can worsen if the repetitive activity continues. • Common symptoms of RSIs include pain, numbness, tingling, weakness, and loss of function in the affected area. • Carpal tunnel syndrome, tendonitis, and tennis elbow are examples of RSIs.
From Ankles to Knees to Wrists, Learn How To Tell Which Injury You Have The majority of us have experienced that twinge of pain after an awkward movement or a day of repetitive tasks. Maybe you twisted your ankle during a hike, felt a sharp pull in your back after lifting something heavy, or noticed a dull ache in your wrist after hours of typing. No matter your injury, our physical therapists will take the time to explain the type of injury you have and show you how physical therapy can help you recover stronger than ever. STRAIN VS. SPRAIN VS. REPETITIVE STRESS INJURIES When it comes to sprains, strains, and repetitive stress injuries, it can be difficult to understand the differences between each one - but we’re here to help! Sprains • A sprain is an injury to a ligament, the tough bands of tissue that connect bones to each other at a joint. • Sprains typically occur when a joint is forced beyond its normal range of motion, causing the ligament to stretch or tear. • Common symptoms of a sprain include pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty moving the affected joint. • Ankle sprains are the most common type of sprain, often caused by twisting or rolling the ankle.
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CALL 518.634.5965 OR VISIT WWW.REPSHERPT.COM FOR MORE INFO
CAUSES AND RISK FACTORS Several factors can increase your risk of experiencing a sprain, strain, or RSI: • Sprains: Participating in sports, wearing improper footwear, and having a history of ankle sprains can increase your risk. • Strains: Overexertion, poor posture, and muscle fatigue can contribute to strains. • RSIs: Performing repetitive tasks, using improper techniques, and having poor ergonomics in the workplace can lead to RSIs.
Patriotic Popsicles
INJURY TREATMENT AT REPSHER & ASSOCIATES PHYSICAL THERAPY
Directions Sweeten Greek yogurt to taste then fill the star-shaped ice cube mold with yogurt; freeze. Puree blueberries and strawberries separately. Assemble: Add a frozen white star to the bottom of each popsicle mold and top with a layer of blueberry puree; freeze. (The blueberry layer should be thicker than the other layers.) Once frozen, add a layer of yogurt. Place the popsicle stick into this layer; freeze. Add a layer of pureed strawberries; freeze. Follow the process with another layer of yogurt and strawberry puree. To serve, dip molds briefly into warm water while gently pulling on the stick. Ingredients • 2 cups Greek yogurt • 1 cup blueberries • 2 cups strawberries • 3 T honey, agave, or other sweetener (optional) • Equipment: flat bottomed popsicle molds or small cups with flat bottoms, popsicle sticks & star- shaped ice cube tray mold
If you’re xperiencing pain or discomfort from a suspected sprain, strain, or repetitive stress injury, don’t wait any longer to begin treatment. Our experienced physical therapists can help you get back to doing the things you love. We’ll create a personalized treatment plan to address your specific needs, including pain management, exercises to improve mobility and strength, and techniques to prevent future injuries. Call us today to schedule an appointment and get back to your active lifestyle stronger than ever!
PREVENTING SPRAINS, STRAINS, & RSIS Nobody enjoys the limitations and discomfort of sprains, strains, and repetitive stress injuries (RSIs), so it’s great news that many of these conditions can be prevented with some proactive measures. Incorporating simple strategies into your daily routine and being mindful of your body’s signals can significantly reduce your risk of experiencing these painful setbacks. Warm-up and Cool-down
Mobility and Strength Maintaining good muscle strength and range of motion can help protect your joints and reduce your risk of injury. Our PT programs will show you how to incorporate regular exercise into your routine that strengthens the muscles surrounding your joints and improves your overall range of motion. Footwear and Protective Gear Wearing appropriate footwear and protective gear can also help prevent injuries. Choose shoes that are meant for the activity you’re doing and fit properly. If you’re participating in activities that put you at risk for falls or impacts, wear protective gear such as helmets, knee pads, or wrist guards. Contact us today for a personalized program with proactive steps to avoid sprains, strains, and RSIs. And if you do experience an injury, don’t wait to schedule your PT appointment with Repsher & Associates Physical Therapy. We’ll help you get back to your activities stronger than before.
A proper warm-up can increase blood flow to your muscles, improve mobility, and reduce the risk of injury. Similarly, a cool-down helps your body gradually return to its resting state, which can help prevent muscle soreness and stiffness. Listen to Your Body Pain is your body’s way of signaling that something is wrong. Don’t ignore those aches and pains – they may be early warning signs of an impending injury. If you experience discomfort during or after an activity, stop and contact us for an appointment. Pushing through pain can exacerbate the problem and lead to more serious complications.
CALL 518.634.5965 AND FOLLOW OUR SOCIALS
This was my second time going here and if I ever need help in the future you can bet I’ll be back. Back in December when my doctor said I needed physical therapy for two bulged disks in my lower back I knew exactly where I was going again! All the therapists here are awesome and really take time with each of their patients but I personally think Brandon is the best. He really has a good eye for when you’re ready to progress forward and holds you accountable for doing the work. I also need to include the people working the front desk. They always remember my name and are smiling, never rude. You can tell people enjoy working here. I always recommend Repsher to my family and friends. -Stephanie R.
By sharing your physical therapy success story, you can inspire others to find relief from their pain and start living a healthier, stronger, and more active life. Scan the QR code to visit our review page and share your success story with others. SHARE YOUR SUCCESS STORY!
STAFF SPOTLIGHT
Stephanie Ciulla, PT, DPT, ATC, OCS
Stephanie graduated from Boston University with her bachelor’s in Athletic Training in 2013 and her doctorate in Physical Therapy in 2015. She enjoys treating all orthopedic injuries, with a special interest in sports rehabilitation and post-operative rehabilitation. During her schooling, she had the opportunity to intern at orthopedic clinics in both Colorado and North Carolina. As an athletic trainer student she got to work with sports teams including the Harvard men’s basketball team and the MIT football team, working to prevent injuries, triage injuries during competition, and rehabilitate student athletes back to sport participation. Outside of work, Stephanie enjoys hiking, playing and watching sports, and traveling. She currently lives in Clifton Park.
COME BACK To REpsher & Associates HAS YOUR PAIN RETURNED? Call today to schedule an appointment! Or request an appointment online at www.repsherpt.com 518.634.5965
Misspelled Mania: Call In & You Could Win! Find the misspelled word in this newsletter and call 518.634.5965 to be entered into our monthly drawing for your chance to win a $10 gift card to Starbucks!
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