AppalachianPT: Foot Or Ankle Pain A Bother?

Newsletter by Appalachian Physical Therapy

October, 2020

NEWSLETTER

IS YOUR FOOT OR ANKLE PAINING YOU?

INSIDE: • How Should My Sprain Or Strain Be Treated? • Exercise Essentials • Patient Success Spotlights • New Staff Members!

NEW FOURTH CLINIC OPENED OCTOBER 1ST! in Strasburg, VA

October, 2020

NEWSLETTER

PHYSICAL THERAPY CAN HELP YOU GET TO THE BOTTOM OF YOUR SPRAIN OR STRAIN

Whether you have pain or have been suffering for a long time, seeing a physical therapist at Appalachian Physical Therapy, Inc. can help you return to a more active and pain-free life. Give us a call at: • Broadway: 540-901-9501 • Harrisonburg: 540-209-8977

• Pinehurst: 910-215-0541 • Strasburg: 540-252-3892

movement patterns, balance issues, and overall affected mobility. People who sprain or strain their feet or ankles often find that they are continuously re-injuring that part of their body. Fortunately, this does not have to be the case with the help of physical therapy. What’s the difference between a sprain and strain? A sprain happens when a ligament (the tissue that connects one bone to another) is stretched or torn. A sprain can also happen when there is damage to a joint capsule, or the part of the ankle or foot that adds stability to the joint. Symptoms of sprains include pain, inflammation, muscle spasm, and sometimes an inability to move your foot or ankle. While sprains happen when there is damage to a ligament, strains happen when there is damage to a muscle or tendon (the tissue that connects muscle to bone). Strains usually happen when the muscle suddenly contracts while it is stretched, like when you run or jump. The symptoms of strains are similar to those associated with sprains, making them difficult to tell apart without doing a physical therapy examination. If you are unsure about whether you sustained a sprain or strain, we can help you figure it out. (continued inside)

Have you recently sustained an injury to your foot or ankle that has resulted in pain? If so, it is possible that you may be experiencing the effects of either a sprain or strain, depending on what structure was injured (tendon or ligament). While there are many factors that can lead to foot and ankle pain, sprains/ strains are some common examples. Even if your pain subsides, dysfunction may still be present. If you have noticed limited mobility, previous or present pain, or other issues with your ankles or feet, Appalachian Physical Therapy can help. We can determine if the cause of your injury was indeed a sprain or strain, in addition to helping provide you with the necessary treatments for healing. We can also provide you with tips for avoiding re-injury in the future, so you don’t have to worry about avoiding certain activities. Why is my foot or ankle hurting? Whether you trip, fall, or twist your foot or ankle “wrong,” foot and ankle pain that stems from a sprain or a strain is often the result of some sort of injury. However, it is also commonly due to an underlying weakness in the muscles of the foot or leg. In fact, any accumulation of factors can lead to insidious onset of pain, including loss of range of motion, altered

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HOWSHOULDMY SPRAIN OR STRAIN BE TREATED?

(continued from outside) Foot and ankle pain treatment depends on where the injury happens and how long ago it occurred. If it is not possible to walk more than two or three steps without pain or if the joint looks out of place, it is important to visit a doctor as soon as possible, because a fracture may be suspected. However, within a few hours of compression wrapping and elevation, most people notice that the swelling begins to subside, and they can carry on with most of their daily tasks with minimal discomfort. However, this initial treatment of a foot or ankle sprain does not help strengthen the area and prevent injury in the future. For optimal results, it is best to consult with a physical therapist to see what the best methods would be for healing and avoiding re-injury of the affected area. Once the acute phase of the injury has passed (the point where there is pain), it is possible to prevent future injury through exercises targeted at strengthening the muscles that surround the ankle. Your physical therapist will prescribe certain strengthening exercises to regain your normal levels of function. This may include drawing the alphabet with your toes to improve range of motion, performing calf raises every time you stand at the sink, or raising your toes slowly off of the ground when you are standing in line at the grocery store. How will physical therapy help my sprain or strain? Physical therapy is designed to relieve the pain of a foot or ankle problem, improve range of motion, and strengthen your muscles so they are able to take on the shock of normal activities. While pain within your foot or ankle may subside on its own, there are dysfunctions up the chain that can last for years and lead to

other injuries. For example, changes in gait pattern can result in ankle injury, making it difficult for you to move around freely. Physical therapy is the best way to make sure that these injuries do not occur. Our physical therapists will show you therapeutic exercises that target the muscles that keep the foot or ankle supported. They may even recommend a customized physical fitness program that can help you reduce stress on your feet and ankles. Whether you sustained a sprain or strain, physical therapy is the answer to achieving long-term relief. Contact Appalachian Physical Therapy today to schedule a consultation or to find out more about how physical therapy can help relieve your foot and ankle pains.

CALL US TODAY TO SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT!

PATIENT SUCCESS SPOTLIGHTS

“I am now able to do more physical activity than when I was 62!” “Once again, Karen has helped me heal. This time the pain and stiffness were in my neck and shoulders, most likely from toomuch weed-pulling. The exercises and point-on therapy helped, as always. I appreciate the opportunity to post this thank you for others to see. She helped me through my recovery of a still undetermined autoimmune disease five years ago. After being mostly bedridden because of pain and little energy for over a year, a doctor in Florida put me on a medication that worked. By then, my muscles were so weak, I could barely walk. This is when Karen brought my body back to life. Literally. Through her uplifting, persistence and support, (for example: “Kare”, show me the right way to get up from the floor…Good girl!) her incredible knowledge of the human body, (for example: Here…Look at this skeleton and you can see how these muscles connect to those muscles) she knows the names of all the muscles, bones, etc…, as well as how they support one another. Karen inspired me to continue

the Oh-So-Fun exercises at home as well, even though I always complained whenever she adds more to my list. I am 72 years old and because of Karen Backall, I am now able to do more physical activity than when I was 62! Paddleboard, walk 5 miles without tiring, tug the bottom sheet over our mattress on the bed all by myself! Amazing! Thank you once again, Karen, for being there for me through thick and thin. With the deepest appreciation.” - K. Kaplan “I feel like my old self and even better again!” “I couldn’t walk hardly at all without sitting down and resting every 50 feet. I could not rotate my body at all without grimacing with pain. After surgery and therapy at Appalachian Physical Therapy, I feel like my old self and even better again. No more pain and now have ease of maneuverability. These folks put you through an excellent exercise program. I’m a full-proof example. I would recommend these therapists to anybody.” - D. Hinkle

“They are so friendly and nice!” “I am extremely pleased with the PT I got for my shoulder. I can use it now without pain. I am also pleased with the staff at Appalachian Physical Therapy. They are so friendly and nice. Colleen has always been able to help with any problems that arise. I highly recommend this practice.” -J. Shirkey

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FREE ROTATOR CUFF, HIP, & KNEE PAIN SEMINARS Attention Pain Sufferers!

Who is the Workshop For? The Rotator Cuff Workshop is for people suffering with shoulder pain. The Hip and Knee Seminar is for individuals having difficulty walking or having pain in either joint. If you are looking to feel normal again and heal naturally without medications, injections and surgery, don’t delay! Register today! Use the camera app on your smartphone to see the next workshop at the location nearest you. You may also call our office numbers listed on the front page of this newsletter. REVEALING HOW TO GET BACK TO NORMAL WITHOUT MEDICATIONS, INJECTIONS & SURGERY...

BROADWAY, VA

HARRISONBURG, VA

PINEHURST, NC

STRASBURG, VA

ROTATOR CUFF WORKSHOP

ROTATOR CUFF WORKSHOP

ROTATOR CUFF WORKSHOP

ROTATOR CUFF WORKSHOP

www.aptfc.com

HIP PAIN WORKSHOP

KNEE PAIN WORKSHOP

KNEE PAIN WORKSHOP

NEW STAFF MEMBERS!

My name is LaurenWallace and I am the receptionist here at Appalachian Physical Therapy. I beganworking here as a PT technician about a year and a half ago. I am a North Carolina native, originally fromBennett. I attended Alamance Community College for Medical Office Administration. I have a 7-year-old son who loves keeping me busy with his motorcycle and his dream of being in the rodeo. Growing up I was in the choir and I played both the violin and the cello. I enjoy spending time withmy Fiancé and our family, along with our three dogs, Bambi, Baby and Bocephus.

and enjoy getting to help people get back to doing the things they love to do as well. During PT school I was also fortunate enough to have several great clinical rotations, experiencing home health, outpatient PT, and inpatient rehabilitation.

Katie is a recent graduate of JamesMadison University who majored in Kinesiology. During her studies, she got the opportunity to participate in a study abroad internship in Australia during the summer of 2019. While she was there, she worked with a semi-professional Australian Rules Football Team, called the West Perth Falcons. Her job on the team was to be an athletic trainer for the athletes. Katie is from the small town of Warrenton, Virginia, where her two younger sisters

Sarah grewup inMidlothian, VA but went to undergrad at James Madison University. She graduated in 2020 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Kinesiology with a concentration in Exercise Science andminor in pre- physician Assistant. She plans to attend PA school in 2021 with hopes of becoming a pediatric surgical PA. Prior to working at Appalachian PT, Sarah was an EMT at Harrisonburg Rescue Squad as well as a gymnastics coach at North Mountain Gymnastics in Broadway. Outside of work, Sarah loves going on

and her parents still live. At home, she also has 2 dogs and cat. In her free time she enjoys hanging out with her friends, watching TV shows, and spending time outdoors especially when that time is spent at the beach. She also enjoys running after work.

Hello, my name is Dylan Bare, and I am the newest Physical Therapist Technician at the Broadway office. I first started working with the Broadway office as a tech in June of 2020 following my graduation from James Madison University with my Bachelor’s Degree in Kinesiology. I was first introduced to Appalachian Physical Therapy and the team when my father had a total knee replacement done early on in my college career. As part of his rehabilitation process he decided to come to APT and work with Dr. AdamVan Nortwick.

adventures and traveling anywhere and everywhere, her favorite being a tie between Italy and Fiji. She also enjoys doing artistic and crafty things such as painting, drawing, and building home decor. Sarah looks forward to working with each and every one of you! Hi, my name is Bryan Callahan and I am the newest member of Appalachian Physical Therapy team in Broadway, VA. I recently completed my Doctor of Physical Therapy degree at Mary Baldwin University after completing my Bachelors degree in Nutrition and Wellness at Bridgewater College. I currently live in Harrisonburg, VA with my girlfriend and our dog Toby. When I’m not at work I enjoy skiing, hiking, rock climbing, gardening, and cooking. I love getting outside and being active

College and have been receiving instruction as I continue to paint. I enjoy the oil medium and painting realism as the old masters did. I have learned glazing techniques and how to mix paint to arrive at just the right color. Pinehurst Artist: NancyManess. Art has always been a force in my life. Growing up in Southern California I was surrounded by beautiful, creative art that always left an impression on me. Once retired, my love of art resurfaced and it was time to be serious. Having had no formal training I began once a week painting lessons for a period of time, then I was off and running, enjoying and loving every brush stroke. Find me on Facebook at Paintings by Nancy. Outside of working at APT I have numerous hobbies that I enjoy. Being a native to the Broadway area I enjoy taking advantage of the different hiking opportunities and being out and about with my family and friends enjoying our area. The previous and current experiences that I have had with APT are encouraging and bring a welcome change of pace tomy work life. I believe Appalachian Physical Therapy’s welcoming atmosphere and dedicated teammakes them truly unique and a great place to work. We expect nothing but the best from each other and for our patients. I look forward to meeting and working with you all!

ARTWORK AT THE OFFICE

Harrisonburg Artist: Kelli Hertzler. Our glorious valley, teeming with flora and fauna, is the inspiration for this artists’ work. Kelli Hertzler hikes the mountains to the east and west and kayaks the Shenandoah River with art supplies in tow to capture the experience of living in one of God’smost beautifully created places. Some pieces will feature vistas and landscapes; others will focus on the details,

the small things that often escape notice, the ‘microscapes’ all around us. Back in the studio, that inspiration transforms into watercolors, oil paintings and color pencil drawings. Kelli Hertzler studied Fine Art at JMU along with a minor in biology. She is a Signature Member of the Shenandoah Valley Watercolor Society. After 21 years of employment as an artist and designer locally, she now teaches workshops, local home-school classes and other private groups, and exhibits her work. Visit her website at KHertzlerArt.wordpress.com.

Pinehurst Artist: Ann Marie Venezio. After my husband retired and we moved to N.C. I decided to try my hand at painting. I first took a watercolor class from a local artist in our community. From there I took a “Follow the leader” class in the medium of oils. I quickly fell in love with oil painting. In 2013 I enrolled

Pinehurst Artist: Beverly Lawson. Having my Finger Painting win a Blue Ribbon in the third grade was the first indication that Art could be in my future. I took Art Classes in Junior High School and High School, but a career in Art and design did not seem to be in the cards for me. It was not until retirement that I decided to delve into painting once again. I went on to take painting classes at Sandhills Community

in an oil painting class at Sandhills Community College. Animals aremy favorite subject to paint. I assume I can call myself a wildlife artist. I also enjoy painting pets. I do occasionally go outside the box to paint something challenging.

EXERCISE ESSENTIALS Try these exercises to keep you moving... ARCH CURL Start with your foot flat against the floor, then flex your toes towards the ceiling, hold for 10 seconds, then flex your toes into the floor, and hold for 10 seconds. Repeat 5 times on each foot.

MAKE PAYMENTS ON OUR WEBSITE! Appalachian PT gives patients the option to pay online using our website. All payments are totally encrypted for security. Select the “Pay” tab at the top of the page. It’s just that easy.

Improves arch pain

FOOT FLEX Sit with your foot slightly elevated on a box. First flex your toes toward you then flex your toes away from you. Repeat 10 times on each foot.

Relieves foot pain

Exercises copyright of

www.simpleset.net

Always consult your physical therapist or physician before starting exercises you are unsure of doing.

Why You Need To Come In For Another Check-Up:

� Move without pain � Bend and move freely � Balance confidently & securely

� Sit for long periods comfortably � Walk for long distances � Live an active & healthy lifestyle

TAKE CARE OF YOUR ACHES & PAINS BEFORE IT ’ S TOO LATE!

BROADWAY CLINIC 540-901-9501

HARRISONBURG CLINIC 540-209-8977

PINEHURST CLINIC 910-215-0541

STRASBURG CLINIC 540-252-3892

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