Focus Physical Therapy - August/September 2023

FIND YOUR STRIDE How Nordic Walking Can Help You Get Moving

(especially the back and knees, which the body typically tends to overcorrect) can find relief. • Improved Cardiovascular Health: Remember, almost any movement is good for you, and Nordic walking is no different. By getting those steps in, you’ll lower your cholesterol and enjoy improved cardiovascular fitness. • Improved Mental Health: Research shows that physical activity boosts mood while actively lowering the risk of

You’ve heard from your doctors, family, and friends alike how important movement is for individuals as they age. Regular walking is the best way for many older adults to get that daily movement in. But what if going for a walk is easier said than done? That’s why many older adults who suffer from balance and/or mobility issues are partaking in something called Nordic walking or pole walking. WHAT IS NORDIC WALKING? Nordic walking is when an individual uses two chest-height poles, much like ski poles, while pushing each one into the ground with

depression. And since users of Nordic walking typically walk outdoors, they also enjoy the mental benefits of being around nature. WHERE CAN YOU FIND NORDIC WALKING POLES? The most accessible place to find Nordic walking poles is online. Retailers like Amazon and Bass Pro Shops sell the poles, but a great resource is YorkNordic.com America’s No. 1 Nordic walking pole retailer. If you prefer to shop in person, Target, Walmart, Dick’s Sporting Goods, and athletic stores typically carry poles too. If you’d like more information on Nordic walking, you can always search the term on Google or YouTube for tips and tricks on starting the habit!

every step. The benefit of the poles is that they help the user balance and stand straight, while the act of pushing the poles into the ground actually increases upper body strength and flexibility. WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF NORDIC WALKING? Aside from helping with balance, strength, and mobility, Nordic walking touts a few other health benefits users can enjoy. • Low Impact: Since Nordic walking uses poles to support the body through each step, there is much less impact on the joints and ligaments.

Reduces Joint Pain: Because Nordic walking poles help the body balance, the user’s joints

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!

“Completely satisfied and rehabilitated! The attention of all the staff is excellent, without a doubt an extraordinary place to improve the mobility of my hand. Thank you!” –Gabriela B. “Before PT, my neck would hurt even with simple stretching. On bad days, the pain would radiate down my right arm and make my job more difficult (i.e., computer work). I had to wear a brace during these times. The pain would wake me up at night, and putting on makeup was painful. Today, I have no more bad days, haven’t had to wear a brace in a long time, and don’t have trouble sleeping, and putting on makeup is a lot less painful. I will continue my exercises and will see a PT in Colorado. Thank you!” –Leticia V.

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