Take a look at our October newsletter!
OCTOBER 2024
WWW.PHYSICALTHERAPYCT.COM | 860-482-0600
Why Fall Prevention Is So Vital This Season STAY ON YOUR FEET THIS FALL
October is one of my favorite months — not just because of the cooler weather, fall leaves, or the fun of Halloween, but because it’s National Physical Therapy Month. Yes, I’m serious! This is when we get to shine a spotlight on the incredible work our physical therapists do every day and focus on something absolutely vital: preventing falls. And trust me, even though it might not sound exhilarating, fall prevention is a game-changer, especially as we all get a little older. Let’s start with the real stars of the show — our physical therapists. These folks are not just health care providers; they’re problem solvers, motivators, and sometimes, even miracle workers. Every day, they come to work with one goal: helping our patients get better. And it’s not always easy. There’s a lot of pressure to make sure everyone is improving, which can weigh heavily on a therapist. But our team handles it with such grace and dedication. Because of their incredible work, we love to use this month to gather patient testimonials. There’s nothing quite like hearing how much someone appreciates the care they’ve received, and it means the world to our therapists. So, if you’ve had a great experience with one of our team members, this is the perfect time to let them know! Trust me, your words of thanks go a long way. Now, let’s talk about this year’s National Physical Therapy Month theme:
fall prevention. Did you know that after the age of 65, falls become the leading cause of injury-related deaths? It’s true, and the stats are pretty eye-opening. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), around 3 million ER visits are related to falls yearly. That’s a staggering number, highlighting just how important it is to prevent falls proactively. Balance and strength naturally decline as we age, increasing the risk of falling. But here’s the good news: Falls are preventable. Physical therapy has made huge strides in recent decades to focus on preventing falls before they happen rather than just treating the injuries after the fact. Our therapists are experts at assessing fall risks. They look at everything from your strength and balance to how well you can navigate obstacles and move around in different lighting conditions — like getting up in the middle of the night in a dimly lit room. Once they’ve identified potential risks, they work with you to improve your strength, particularly in your hips, feet, ankles, and back. They also help you with balance exercises tailored to your specific needs. Even if you’ve had a fall in the past and walked away unscathed, that doesn’t mean the next one won’t be serious. Just one bad fall can have a long- lasting impact on your health, so taking steps to prevent it from happening again is crucial.
So, here’s my pitch: If you or someone you know is having trouble with balance or has fallen recently, don’t wait for something worse to happen. Reach out to us or talk to your primary care physician. We’re here to help, and the earlier we start working on fall prevention, the better. And don’t forget — National Physical Therapy Month is a great time to show some love to your therapists. Whether it’s a simple thank you or sharing your positive experience, it means more than you might think. Let’s make October a month of gratitude, health, and staying on our feet!
–Kevin Smith
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TASTY TAKEOUT TRANSFORMATION YOUR GO-TO GUIDE FOR HEALTHY TO-GO FOOD CHOICES
Manage your portion sizes. Many fast food joints serve big portions you can split into two meals, so always watch how much food you order. Avoid supersizing your meal and stick to the smallest serving sizes for sides, drinks, and main entrees. Our favorite takeout hack is to check out the kid’s menu. The children-size hamburgers at most restaurants typically contain only 250–300 calories, so you will still get a solid serving of protein with less fat — and save a little money. Skip the add-ons. When you crave fast food, every calorie counts. Say no to add-ons or extras for your meal, like bacon or cheese. Sauces and dressings often have extra calories and sugar, so avoiding them or asking for them on the side is best. If you want condiments on your food, like mayonnaise, ask them to add only a light amount or ask for sauce packets so you can control those extra calories. Some healthy and tasty swaps for flavor are avocado, hummus, or salsa. So, remember these tips to keep your meal delicious and healthier next time you’re in the drive-thru line. You can enjoy a world of flavors without sacrificing your well-being by making mindful choices and small swaps.
Are you hungry for some delicious takeout but want to keep it healthy? Whether you’re craving spicy Szechuan or dreaming of a cheesy slice of pizza, we’ve got your back with the ultimate guide to guilt- free takeout! From swapping
out egg rolls for lighter spring rolls to skipping your hamburger bun,
discover how to indulge in your favorite cuisines without compromising health. So, grab your fork, and let’s dive into the menu of nutritious takeout options that will satisfy your cravings and keep you healthy. Avoid fried foods. Many of the most popular dishes at fast-food restaurants are battered and fried. Look for items on the menu that are baked, steamed, roasted, or grilled, as they are healthier alternatives. Fried foods are high in calories and trans fat, which could negatively impact your health. Simple swaps like choosing a veggie burger instead of a regular burger with bacon or a baked potato instead of fries can make all the difference.
Unleash Your Inner Athlete Dogpound Gym’s Rise to Fitness Stardom
In the fast-paced world of celebrity fitness, one name stands out: Dogpound. This exclusive gym, located in New York and Los Angeles, has become a beacon of high-end fitness for the rich and famous, offering a personalized approach to reaching peak physical condition. Catering to the Crème de la Crème Dogpound’s memberships are the stuff of legend, with three tiers to choose from: Silver ($8,000/year), Platinum ($23,000/ year), and the elite Black ($36,000/ year). Each level provides a unique blend of private sessions and group classes, ensuring every client receives the attention and expertise they demand. But it’s not just the price tag that sets Dogpound apart — it’s the caliber of its clientele. A-List Regulars and Beyond From pop sensation Taylor Swift to Marvel’s Tom Holland, Dogpound has become a veritable who’s who of
the entertainment industry. Even the Wolverine himself, Hugh Jackman, has been spotted sweating it out within Dogpound’s walls, a testament to the gym’s unparalleled reputation. But the gym’s reach extends beyond the silver screen, with Victoria’s Secret models and world-renowned athletes among its devoted members. Cutting-Edge Training, Virtually and In-Person Dogpound’s success lies in its commitment to innovative training methods. Whether you’re working out in person at one of its state-of-the-art facilities or participating in its virtual training sessions, its impressive range of cutting-edge equipment and expert guidance will push you to your limits. A Holistic Approach to Fitness But Dogpound is more than just a place to lift weights and burn calories.
The gym’s holistic approach to wellness ensures its members receive the support they need to achieve their goals and maintain a healthy, balanced lifestyle. From cryotherapy to massage therapy, Dogpound offers a range of recovery services to help its clients bounce back and perform at their best. As the fitness world continues evolving, Dogpound has established itself as a pioneer, blending cutting-edge training methods with unparalleled exclusivity and personalized attention.
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SUPERFOODS FOR MORE RADIANT SKIN
People have employed lasers, chemical peels, injections, and facelifts in the war against aging skin. While these more extreme measures can be temporarily effective, they can be hard on the wallet and much more cumbersome than natural remedies. Another tool in our arsenal against the effects of aging is our diet. Since our skin ages more like milk than wine, it only makes sense that we eat more fruit (as well as herbs and vegetables). Here are four skin care superfoods that can boost skin health!
chocolate, dark chocolate contains antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that help improve the texture and radiance of your skin. I guess it’s time to give in to the dark side! Kale It won’t kill you to eat kale. In fact, kale is one of the most nutritious foods out there! Best of all, it is full of antioxidants and vitamins to make your body’s biggest organ (your skin) look new again! If you have an aversion to eating greens, you should know that kale also comes in purple varieties.
Blueberries One key ingredient to healthy skin is antioxidants,
TAKE A BREAK! which help protect skin cells from aging and can even help minimize wrinkles. Fortunately, blueberries are full of antioxidants, such as anthocyanins and flavonoids. They also contain a healthy amount of vitamin C, which has been proven to improve skin firmness. Dark Chocolate Who knew delicious desserts could contribute to healthier skin? Unlike milk
Thyme Everyone has heard of herbal remedies, and one herb in particular has some proven benefits for rejuvenating skin. According to research published in
the scientific journal Nutrients, thyme is full of antioxidants, minerals, and vitamins that can help contribute to healthier, smoother skin.
INGREDIENTS • 1 1/2 tsp vegetable oil, or as needed • 1/2 cup half-and-half • 1/4 cup canned pumpkin purée • 3 large eggs • 1 tsp ground cinnamon PUMPKIN PIE FRENCH TOAST
Inspired by AllRecipes.com
• 1 tsp vanilla extract • 1/4 tsp pumpkin pie spice • 1/4 cup finely chopped walnuts
• 8 slices day-old bread • Maple syrup, to taste
1. Lightly oil a skillet and heat over medium heat. 2. Whisk half-and-half, pumpkin purée, eggs, cinnamon, vanilla, and pumpkin pie spice together in a bowl. Stir in walnuts until evenly distributed. 3. Place 1 slice of bread in the bowl and let it soak briefly to coat both sides. Lift bread to let excess liquid drip back into the bowl, then transfer to the hot skillet. 4. Cook for 2–3 minutes or until golden brown, then flip and cook the other side until done. 5. Stir batter to redistribute walnuts and repeat with other slices of bread, cooking in several batches if necessary. 6. Serve warm with maple syrup. DIRECTIONS
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PRST STD US POSTAGE PAID BOISE, ID PERMIT 411
860-482-0600 | www.PhysicalTherapyCT.com 881 New Harwinton Rd. Torrington, CT 06790
INSIDE THIS ISSUE
1.
Falling Isn't Inevitable: Let’s Prevent It Together
2.
Enjoy Your Favorite Takeout Without the Guilt The Gym Celebrities Can’t Get Enough Of
3.
A Diet for Healthier Skin Pumpkin Pie French Toast 4. Fascinating Facts to Make Your Bones Rattle
EXPLORING THE MARVELS OF YOUR SKELETAL SYSTEM! ‘BONE’ VOYAGE
Make no bones about it; our skeletons are a real rib-tickler of fascinating facts! From the impressive strength of our thigh bones to the tiny marvels of the inner ear, your bones are the unsung heroes of your body. So, rest your bones in a comfy chair because we are about to dig up some of the most shocking skeletal secrets. Babies have more bones than adults. Although babies are tiny, their bodies have many bones in a pudgy, little package. Human babies have about 300 bones compared to an adult’s 206. Many extra bones are entirely or partly made of cartilage, allowing the baby to stay flexible in the womb. Over time, the bones fuse and decrease in number. Fracture rates are highest when kids are around ages 11–15, the critical time for significant growth spurts thanks to growth plates that close as we age. Half of our bones are in our feet and hands. Did you know that many of our bones are in the smaller extremities of our body? Nearly half of our 206 adult bones are in our hands and feet! Each foot has 26 bones, and our hands both have 27 bones, which is 106 bones. Our hands
even have a bonus bone called the pisiform, located on the outside edge of our wrists. The funny bone is a nerve. Have you ever hit your funny bone? Well, you are not hitting a bone at all. This area on the body is part of the ulnar nerve, which goes from your neck to your hand. Bone, muscle, and fat typically protect nerves, but a small portion of this nerve on the back of your elbow is more exposed. So, when you hit your funny bone, named for its location near the humerus bone (a homophone of “humorous”), you’re really bumping into the ulnar nerve. So, now that you’ve “boned up” on the most fascinating fossil facts, give your skeleton a little nod for the incredible things it does to support you and keep you moving!
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