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Focus Physical Therapy Bi-Monthly
December 2024/January 2025
Focuspt.net
949.709.8770
The Courage to Continue It’s never easy to find the strength within ourselves to overcome an obstacle, but for people with disabilities, it’s the only option in order to keep going. Dec. 3 is International Day of Persons with Disabilities, a day that always gets me thinking about the amazing people I’ve met who face life’s challenges with incredible perseverance and resilience. Their inspiring stories redefine what it means to overcome adversity. the right support and technology. These Paralympians don’t let their disabilities define them, which is nowhere near easy. Lessons in Perseverance From Those With Disabilities
It’s entirely natural to feel discouraged when faced with a disability. The initial shock and adjustment period can be overwhelming, and feeling defeated is all too easy. Yet, what often distinguishes those who find a way to thrive from those who struggle is a combination of mindset and support. A positive outlook can be incredibly powerful, transforming challenges into stepping stones. Additionally, having a robust support system — whether it’s family, friends, therapists, or community resources — can make all the difference. Of course, not everyone hits the ground running. I've worked with many who initially struggled with their new realities, like a young girl who came to me after a severe accident. Initially confined to a wheelchair, we started with basic movements in the pool. It was slow going at first, but her determination never waned. Over time, she made tremendous progress. It took time, patience, and practice, but now, she walks into my office on her own two feet, a testament to her hard work and perseverance. Being a physical therapist has given me a front-row seat to these extraordinary journeys. I couldn’t be more grateful to be their partner in their progress. Their hard work is a constant reminder of the incredible human capacity to adapt and thrive despite the odds. It's taught me a lot about the strength of the human spirit and the importance of never taking our abilities for granted. On this International Day of Persons with Disabilities, let’s all take a moment to appreciate and learn from those who don’t just face their challenges — they charge at them head-on. Their stories challenge each of us to look at our own lives and see where we can push our boundaries a little further. They remind us that with a bit of grit and a lot of heart, almost any obstacle can be overcome.
Take my friend, for instance. He was an avid motorcyclist until an accident cost him his leg. You might think such an event would slow someone down or lead them into despair, but not him. He swapped his bike for weights and took up bodybuilding. Witnessing his journey from recovery to strength was a real eye-opener — it showed me that our limitations are often not as limiting as we might think. He didn’t let the aftermath of that accident deter him from pushing forward (but it did make him forbid his children from ever getting on a motorcycle). His prosthetic leg has allowed him to remain an athlete, and the world of prosthetics and adaptive technology has really changed the game, especially in sports. Watching athletes at the Paralympics compete with such speed and agility is nothing short of awe-inspiring. It’s incredible to see what can be achieved with
–Julian Manrique
Focus Physical Therapy • Call 949.709.8770 • 1
If you have ever had to migrate from the bed to the couch, chances are you are either a dog with bad gas or your spouse has a snoring problem. While we have no sophisticated technological solution for the former, a new anti-snoring pillow may help dampen the effects of snoring. The Motion Pillow is a promising solution to an age-old problem and was even awarded a Best of Innovation award at CES 2024. You are probably thinking, “People have had pillows forever. How can a pillow be innovative?” Well, this pillow utilizes AI technology, an inflatable airbag, and a companion app, which work together to reduce the amount and volume of users’ snoring. Here is how it works. Buzzwords to Put You to Sleep These days, every product advertises some sort of AI integration. The difference is that with the Motion Pillow, integrated AI actually does something helpful. The Motion Pillow is accompanied by the Motion System, a separate appliance that sits near a user’s bed and wirelessly connects to the pillow. The Motion System listens in while you sleep, using AI to determine whether the sounds it hears are your snores or other audio interference. If it detects snoring, it will activate the inflatable airbag inside the pillow to lift your head, applying tension and opening your airway. According to 10minds, SNORE NO MORE The Innovative Motion Pillow
which is based in Seoul, South Korea, this automatic detection and inflation reduces snoring. The company claims that 93% of its study participants experienced a reduction in snoring and a 44% decrease in snoring time. Custom Comfort If you are worried about an AI snuffing out your snoring, you’ll be relieved to know that the Motion Pillow has a companion app. The app measures your sleep time, how long you snore, and how long the airbag is inflated each night, but it also lets you customize how much the pillow inflates. If you are interested, you can buy your very own Motion Pillow for just $699.99.
WHAT OUR PATIENTS ARE SAYING ...
The biggest compliment you can give us is referring friends and family. Thank you for all of your referrals and keep them coming! We love our clients!
“After two back surgeries, almost 5 months spent in hospitals and skilled nursing facilities, I was still bound to a walker and wheelchair. When I started my PT with Focus Physical Therapy, Julian set up goals for my 24 PT sessions to be walking without any aid, driving my car, and taking care of myself on my own. And, all my goals were met by the end of my PT program with Focus. I am going to continue with more PT to improve my stability, quality of walking, and increase my strength and durability. Thank you to Julian and his team: Junoe, Gerardo, and Allyssa, and the ladies at the front desk. Really great team.” –Sava N.
"I went to PT because of my lower back. After PT sessions, pain has been reduced. Also, I’m able to walk farther than before. Thank you!” –John T.
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• Focus Physical Therapy • Call 949.709.8770
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Straighten Up and Stand Tall
How Correcting Your Posture Can Prevent Chronic Pain
Sustainable Posture Practices Maintaining a supportive posture isn’t just for those moments when you think about it — it should become a constant practice. While seated, especially in an office setting, ensure your back is flush against the chair, shoulders rolled back, and feet flat on the floor. Utilizing a small pillow or towel to support the lumbar region can also help maintain the spine’s natural curve. It’s also a great idea to stand up and take brief walks every hour to prevent stiffness. If you're looking to improve your posture and alleviate your pain, contact our team. We’re here to guide you through personalized strategies to enhance your posture and prevent the painful problems that come down the line. Schedule your appointment today and start your journey toward a healthier spine and a pain-free life!
Many patients are shocked to learn that poor posture is the culprit of their constant pain. Slouching over computers and peering down at our phones can wreak havoc not just on our neck, shoulders, and back but also on our overall health. Over time, poor posture can lead to notable limitations in our spine’s mobility, reducing the rib cage's ability to expand and consequently impairing lung capacity. This can result in decreased oxygen levels, affecting our systemic health — not to mention the physical changes it can bring about, like rib humps. That’s why it’s important we improve our posture long before these issues come into play. Simple Solutions for Significant Improvements One of the simplest remedies we recommend is using gravity to your advantage. Lying flat on your back with
arms outstretched opens the thoracic spine and promotes lung expansion. This position aids in resetting the spine to a more neutral, natural alignment. Additionally, incorporating extension exercises can activate and strengthen the muscles along the back. These muscles may become weak and overstretched from prolonged poor seating positions, much like a slackened rubber band loses its elasticity. Engage in Strengthening Exercises Another simple exercise is to stand or sit with your back against a wall, ensuring your hips, shoulder blades, and head all make contact with the wall. This setup not only helps strengthen your back but also trains your body to recognize what good posture feels like. Exercises like scapular squeezes, drawing your shoulder blades together while raising your arms to shoulder height, can dramatically improve your posture and strengthen the muscles that hold you upright.
CHICKEN CAPRESE SALAD
HAVE A LAUGH
Ingredients
Directions
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1/3 cup balsamic vinegar 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
1. Whisk vinegar, olive oil, mustard, and pepper in a medium bowl. Transfer 6 tbsp of mixture to a smaller bowl and whisk in honey; set aside. 2. To mixture in the medium bowl, add 1/2 tsp salt, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder. Add chicken; toss to coat. Marinate for 30 minutes. 3. Coat a grill pan with oil. Over medium heat, add chicken and cook until grill marks appear on each side, about 5–7 minutes. Transfer to a plate; let stand for 5 minutes. 4. Arrange romaine, tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil on a large platter; sprinkle with salt. Top with the sliced chicken and drizzle with the honey mixture.
2 tsp Dijon mustard 1 tsp ground pepper
2 1/2 tsp honey
3/4 tsp salt, divided
1/2 tsp Italian seasoning 1/2 tsp garlic powder 2 (8-oz) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced 8 cups coarsely chopped romaine lettuce 1 lb grape tomatoes, halved 1 (8-oz) container fresh small mozzarella cheese balls in water, drained 1 cup fresh basil leaves
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Inspired by EatingWell.com
Focus Physical Therapy • Call 949.709.8770 • 3
30212 Tomas, Ste. 120 Rancho Santa Margarita, CA 92688, USA
949.709.8770
PRST STD US POSTAGE PAID BOISE, ID PERMIT 411
Focuspt.net
SPECIALIZING IN: LOWER BACK PAIN • SCIATICA • NECK PAIN AND HEADACHES HIP PROBLEMS • SHOULDER PAIN, BURSITIS, AND TENDINITIS SPORTS PHYSICAL THERAPY • GOLF PERFORMANCE KNEE PAIN • PLANTAR FASCIITIS • DIZZINESS AND VERTIGO AQUATIC PHYSICAL THERAPY • AND OTHER CONDITIONS
The Extraordinary Achievements of Ordinary People Facing Disabilities The Anti-Snoring Pillow What Our Patients Are Saying Unlock the Secrets to a Healthier Back and Better Posture Chicken Caprese Salad A Week of Healthy Hacks From Hollywood’s Sweetheart 1 2 3 4 INSIDE THIS ISSUE
Garner Your Best Week Yet Jennifer’s 7-Day Routine for Busy Moms
If you’ve ever wondered how Jennifer Garner balances being a Hollywood star, a fit mom, and a culinary queen all at once, you’re in luck! Her seven-day game plan includes healthy meals, fun workouts, and hacks to stay in shape while getting her three kids to school. From “big fat salads” for lunch to finding a workout routine you can turn to every day, here’s how you can revamp your weeks just like America’s sweetheart. Start the day off right. The actress starts her day at 5 a.m. with a cup of coffee. She then does the same morning workout: a mix of dance cardio, plyometrics, and strength training. She said her fitness routine is not
star eats the same food for breakfast and lunch almost every day. For breakfast, she opts for whole-fat yogurt with fruit, nuts, and an apple. At lunchtime, she likes a healthy fat-filled salad filled with hearty vegetables, dark greens, cheese, and nuts. She also prepares roasted sweet potatoes she can easily reheat and toss into salads throughout the week. Snack smart when you cheat. Garner doesn’t have a scheduled cheat day; instead, she snacks smart when she craves a little treat. Popcorn is a low-fat and tasty option for the whole family. Though her favorites are blue corn chips and chocolate, she also makes “pizza crackers” — baked pizza dough without the toppings.
about how you look or fit into clothes; it’s about building your strength and pushing yourself. So, if you want to boost your health before getting your kids ready for the day, wake up early and get a workout in. Eat the same healthy meals. Want a hack for healthy meals Monday through Sunday? The “13 Going on 30”
Garner’s seven-day game plan is the ultimate hack for busy moms who want to stay fit. By sticking to her easy-to-follow routine of nutritious meals, fun workouts, and mindful indulgences, you can take on the week like a true superstar!
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• Focus Physical Therapy • Focuspt.net
FREE 3D Posture & Functional Gait Analysis!
Discover Hidden Imbalances and Take Control of Your Health Today!
WHY GET A 3D ASSESSMENT? Subtle issues in your posture or gait can lead to chronic pain, reduced mobility , or even injuries . Using Kinetisense, the world’s most advanced 3D motion capture system, we can uncover these hidden imbalances before they become painful problems.
BENEFITS OF OUR FREE ASSESSMENT
• Identify Posture & Balance Issues: Pinpoint subtle weaknesses or risks. • Reduce Injury Risk: Improve movement patterns and prevent strain or falls. • Customized Plan for You: Gain insights for optimal posture, alignment, and mobility.
REVOLUTIONARY TECHNOLOGY, INCREDIBLE RESULTS
Kinetisense is a cutting-edge, markerless 3D motion capture technology that delivers real-time, accurate analysis without invasive sensors. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for everyone — seniors, athletes, or anyone wanting to move and feel better.
LIMITED-TIME OFFER — $149 VALUE, ABSOLUTELY FREE!
Spots Are Filling Up Fast! Don’t miss this opportunity to take control of your movement and health. Contact us at 949-709-8770 or info@focuspt.net to take advantage of this exclusive offer.
Imagine living with less pain, more confidence, and the freedom to move effortlessly. This FREE 3D Posture & Gait Assessment is your chance to take a proactive step toward a healthier, more balanced you.
Move Better, Live Better — Start Today!
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