Blue Ridge: Don’t Ignore Back Pain

ONE ANNUAL HEALTH CHECKUP THAT’S PROBABLY MISSING FROM YOUR CALENDAR

Some health habits are instilled in us at a young age. For as long as you can remember, for example, you made annual treks in the family minivan to both the pediatricianand thedentist.Asyouenteredadulthood,youprobably transitioned to a primary care physician, and maybe even a different dentist better equipped to address adult needs. Anytime you’ve moved or switched insurance carriers, one of your first priorities has been to track down new providers. Now you may even choose to schedule visits more than once a year, when necessary. You probably figure that between the two healthcare professionals, all of your health needs are covered, right? As it turnsout, thesehealthcareprofessionalsaren’tspecifically trained toassess your musculoskeletal system, which is comprised of your muscles, bones, cartilage, tendons, ligaments, joints and other connective tissues. Then who is the righthealthcareprofessional toensure that theseessential internalstructures are working properly and helping to support, stabilize and move your body? A physical therapist.Physical therapistsareeducatedonhowyourmusculoskeletal system functions properly and are trained to identify dysfunctions before they grow into bigger problems. At a yearly physical therapy “checkup,” your PT will gather your medical history and observe as you participate in screening tests and other assessments to establish a baseline of your physical abilities, fitness level and personal health. To maximize the encounter with your physical therapist, it’s important to be prepared before your appointment. To ensure that you cover everything and address any issues you may be having, make a list that includes:

• New activities you’re considering • Fitness goals

The information exchange between you and your PT is critical to forming an ongoing relationship, and to ensuring that you’re functioning and moving at top form. By understanding what sports and recreational activities you’re currently participating in and the fitness goals you’re aiming to achieve, your PT will be better prepared to make recommendations and tailor a home exercise program designed tohelpyouachieveyourgoals.Makingwellnessapartofyoureveryday lifeand takingsteps toensure thatyourmusculoskeletalsystem is functioningat top notch can be very empowering and rewarding. Why not begin—or continue— that journey with a physical therapist? Now that you know how to prepare for a physical therapy checkup, and understand what you can expect during the appointment, the next step is to call and schedule your annual visit.

• Health issues like diabetes or high blood pressure • Current medications, including supplements • Physical fitness activities

Attention Back Pain Sufferers!

Patient Success Spotlight

I am so grateful!

Do You Have Difficulty With Back Pain?

• Decrease your pain • Increase your strength • Increase your activity level • Increase your flexibility • Improve your health • Get back to living We can help:

“ I came in doubled over in pain and hardly able to walk. Kim diagnosed my problem with my back and got to work. I came twice a week to get my back and leg loosened. They used ultrasound, exercises, and soft tissue work to get me back to my daily life. I am so grateful to Kim, Dustin, Mason, and Eddie for the help.” – Susan G.

MentionorBring inThisCouponTodayFora FREE Back Pain Consultation Call Today: (423) 262-0020 Offer valid for the first 25 people to schedule. Expires 06-27-18.

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