Check out our September newsletter!
PATIENT PULSE
(858) 675-1133 | www.waterpt.com
15373 Innovation Dr. #175 | San Diego, CA 92128 | (858) 675-1133 12171 World Trade Dr. | San Diego, CA 92128
IN IT FOR THE LONG HAUL LONG COVID AND REHABILITATION
One of the most rewarding aspects of my profession has been witnessing one of our patients, severely affected with long COVID-19, make progress toward rehabilitation. Long COVID encompasses the post-COVID conditions that are both physically and mentally damaging to the patient. After COVID-19 struck this particular patient, a very somber and unsure emotion overwhelmed both the patient and the family. But as the patient progressed on the journey of recovery, the somberness slowly transitioned to hope for the patient and the family, and that is an astonishing thing to be a part of. Every day in our office, rehabilitation in the treatment and management of those affected by COVID-19 and long COVID takes place. In my research, education, and experience, I have come to understand that COVID-19 is capable of affecting anyone at any age. Many, unfortunately, believe only the elderly, frail, or medically compromised are severely affected by COVID-19, but I have seen firsthand how that is not necessarily the case. COVID-19 leaves many people of many different ages and health statuses with respiratory, cognitive, motor, joint, and muscular complications. There
are myriad symptoms and differing severities — it truly is a case-by-case situation.
Anyone who spent some time in the ICU is susceptible to greater long-term disabilities than someone who contracted the virus for a short period of time and experienced very mild symptoms, if any at all. The American Physical Therapy Association has recommended a series of standard tests, known as outcome measurements, to evaluate where the patient begins and how they progress in their treatment. It is pretty amazing that physical therapists worldwide have come together to keep outcome measurements consistent to track each patient’s progression on the same scale. We use these outcome measurements in the office to track progress every day. We work with our patients one-on-one for their entire session. Unlike a traditional doctor, where the patient may see a series of doctors, nurses, and assistants over the course of an appointment, we are able to evaluate and pick up on minute details. We do our best to make our rehabilitation more game-like, both physically and cognitively.
Our aquatic environment is especially beneficial on our patients' recovery journeys. The water actually supports someone who is having a difficult time, as the buoyancy allows for the upward lift to counteract the gravity within the water. If a patient has significant weakness from ICU, being submersed in the water increases circulation and blood flow to the muscles. The hydrostatic pressure in the water can make taking in a breath more difficult (but more beneficial) as it works the diaphragm more. So, those suffering from respiratory issues can get stronger through water therapy as it works the breathing muscles. We are movement specialists — we treat the whole body in a holistic manner, especially the muscles and joints. Our toolbox isn't medications and surgery routines; we educate and work with people to optimize their own body to heal and move better so they can return to the things they want to do and the goals they want to achieve.
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DON’T FALL THIS FALL! 3 TIPS FOR FALL PREVENTION
September marks the start of fall, but it also serves as an important reminder about falling.
Improve Your Home
Falling is one of the greatest dangers seniors face. As adults age, take more medication, and lose some mobility, it becomes increasingly difficult to stay upright or regain balance — even when tripping over the smallest object. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that 1 out of 5 falls cause serious injuries, including traumatic brain injuries. Falling can also increase a senior’s chance of falling again.
Your home just might be your biggest threat when it comes to falls, so improve it with a few changes! Install grab bars and railings on steps and in the bathtub for extra support. Grips on the bottom of the bathtub and on slippery surfaces can give you a secure footing, while lighting along the hallway and in stairwells can better illuminate walkways. Even something as simple as moving a table or decor item out of the hallway can be beneficial!
But for as common as it may be, falling doesn’t have to be your norm. You can lower your risk of falling and injury with a few simple steps.
Review Your Medicines
Move More
Sometimes medication can influence balance and movement. Talk with your doctor about the side effects of your medication and adjust accordingly. You may need to consider alternatives, but if that’s not possible, physical therapy can provide assistance. It’s designed to help you improve your balance and get stronger — which can lower your risk of falling.
Your body was designed to move! When you don’t move your body enough, which can happen when you age, your muscles and joints can become weak and stiff. The best way to strengthen your reactions and improve your balance is to move your body. A physical therapist can help you develop a routine that targets your balance while strengthening your muscles and joints.
You can learn more about fall prevention and risks online at CDC.gov.
MEET NAUREEN!
North County Water and Sports Therapy Center is excited to welcome Naureen Imam, PT, DPT, MBS, CAFS to our team.
Naureen received her bachelor's in sociology and Spanish from Emory University, where she developed a lifelong interest in both the scientific and artistic aspects of human movement. Following her undergraduate education, she pursued a master's of biomedical sciences from Rutgers University and her doctorate in physical therapy (DPT) from the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences. During her time in the DPT program, she found a passion in treating patients with movement disorders such as dystonia, cerebral palsy, and Parkinson's disease. She went on to pursue certifications in treating neurological and orthopedic conditions through the Parkinson's Wellness Recovery Program, LSVT BIG, and the Gray Institute. To help inspire future PTs, Naureen serves as adjunct faculty at the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences and is also a certified clinical instructor. Naureen spends her free time hiking, reading, and exploring San Diego's ever-changing boba tea shops.
www.waterpt.com 2
2 FUN FAMILY CARD GAMES TO PLAY WITH 1 DECK
Whether you’re hanging out at home or camping with the family, card games are a great way to relax. A single deck is versatile and easy to pack, so if you have one on hand, try these two games that go beyond the classics like War and Go Fish. 1. Slapjack (2+ Players, No Jokers): The goal of this War-style game is to win all of the cards. To start, deal all of the cards face down, then have everyone form their cards into a pile without looking at them. Each player then flips a card face up into the center. Continue doing this until one of the cards played is a jack.
When that happens, the first person to slap the jack wins it and the cards beneath! They add them to their deck, and play continues until one player has all of the cards. To keep things interesting, if you accidentally slap a card that isn’t a jack, you have to give up one of your cards to the player with that pile, and if you run out of cards, you can reenter the game by slapping the very next jack. 2. Spar (2–4 Players, No Ace of Spades or Cards Below 6): This easy game is played with just 35 cards, and the object is to win the last round (aka trick). To start, deal five cards to each player. Then, have the person to the left of the dealer lay one of their cards face up. Each person in the circle then plays a card in the same suit if they can or another suit if they can’t. Whoever has the highest card in the original suit wins the trick and starts the next one! The winner of the fifth trick wins the game. If you want to keep score, award three points if the winning card is a six, two points if it’s a seven, and one point if it’s an eight or higher. Then play again!
We found these games on BicycleCards.com, but you can learn about them and dozens of others by checking out “The Ultimate Book of Family Card Games” by Oliver Ho from your local library.
HAVE A LAUGH
A
R
Bring the taste of fall into your kitchen with this sizzling skillet meal.
INGREDIENTS
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1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• • • •
2 tsp Dijon mustard 4 tsp olive oil, divided
• • •
1 tsp salt, divided
3 sweet apples, cut into 1/2-inch slices 2 tsp fresh rosemary, chopped, plus more for garnish
1/2 tsp black pepper, divided
1/2 cup apple cider
DIRECTIONS
1. Sprinkle chicken with 1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp pepper. Set aside. 2. In a small bowl, combine apple cider and mustard. Set aside.
3. In a large skillet over medium heat, warm 2 tsp olive oil. When shimmering, add chicken thighs top-side down. Cook for 4 minutes, then flip and cook for 4 more minutes. Transfer to a plate and cover with foil. Wipe the skillet clean. 4. Heat the remaining oil in the skillet, then add sliced apples, remaining salt and pepper, and rosemary. Cook for 5 minutes. 5. Return the chicken to the skillet and add apple cider-mustard mixture. Cook for 5 minutes, then serve sprinkled with rosemary! 3 (858) 675-1133 Inspired by WellPlated.com
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Monday—Thursday 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Friday 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. (858) 675-1133 www.waterpt.com
15373 Innovation Dr. #175 San Diego, CA 92128
INSIDE THIS ISSUE
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Long COVID Rehabilitation
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Celebrate Fall Prevention Month With These 3 Tips Welcome, Naureen! 2 Fun Family Card Games to Play With 1 Deck One-Pan Apple Cider Chicken
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San Diego Events in September
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THE SCOOP ON LOCAL FUN SEPTEMBER EVENTS AROUND TOWN
Game Time Decision Speaking of Petco Park, you can always catch a Padres game! The playoffs are nearing and the excitement is building. Gather up the family and head to the park. After all, hot dogs always taste better at the ballpark! The Animal World The San Diego Zoo is one of the best and always a great time! The zoo is home to over 12,000 animals who have 100 acres to roam and for you to visit. You can even check out the zoo via aerial tram or bus tour. History and Culture At Balboa Park, you can check out more than 16 museums featuring everything from San Diego history to the history of automobiles, trains, arts, crafts, and more. No matter your dining preference, you are sure to find a culturally exciting place to catch a meal. In between museums, you can catch up on shopping, tour the
Summer is drawing to a close and fall is coming. Temperatures are dropping and the holidays are nearing! It’s an exciting time to get out with friends and family and enjoy some local fun, as long as you are mindful of COVID-19 protocols to protect yourself and others. Craft Cocktails and Food From Sept. 11–12, at the Port Pavilion Broadway Pier, you won’t want to miss the San Diego Spirits Festival. Celebrated annually each year, many adult beverages will be showcased all in good fun. Enjoy craft cocktails, delicious food, and a fun atmosphere all weekend long along the San Diego Bay. Rock at the Park Petco Park, home to the San Diego Padres, is planning to host a few music extravaganzas throughout the month of September. You won’t want to miss out on Thievery Corporation, Slightly Stoopid, and Mötley Crüe!
gardens, or enjoy some of the local performing arts in the area. There are also many independent dance groups where you can get in on some dance classes. One day is not enough time to see it all at Balboa Park!
www.waterpt.com 4
NORTH COUNTY WATER AND SPORTS THERAPY CENTER IS NOW HIRING LOOKING FOR THE RIGHT PEOPLE
Working in Physical Therapy Has Benefits That Extend Beyond the Clinic!
Make a Difference
Stories about hiring difficulties are all over the news right now, and physical therapy clinics are included. An aging population with more chronic diseases has been increasing the need for physical therapy for years. The pandemic has accelerated the problem. Clinics aren’t only looking for PTs and PTAs, either. Finding the right people to fill roles in billing, administrative, and tech is difficult, too. Many clinics also employ people like nutritionists, athletic trainers, and fitness professionals. If you’re looking for a new place to work or a change in career, a PT clinic might be a great setting for you. Here are a few reasons to consider it: Build Relationships Physical therapy is unique in the world of health care because of the time patients spend in the clinic. People often come in 2–3 times a week, for a few weeks to several months, depending on why they’re coming in. When people spend that much time together, it’s easy for great relationships to form. Often these relationships end up lasting a lifetime and have benefits that extend outside the clinic. Having a large and diverse network is never a bad thing, and a PT clinic is a great place to build one.
Physical therapists work with people who have injuries or disabilities that affect their mobility as well as those who have chronic illnesses, like heart disease or diabetes. They help people heal faster and get them back to normal life with a focus on function. That means PTs want to help people return to meaningful things like going to work, participating in recreational activities and hobbies, or playing with grandkids. Getting back to things like that means a lot more to patients than lowering their blood pressure or improving their lab values. And it feels good to be a part of making that happen. If you’ve never considered working in a PT clinic, now might be the right time. It’s rewarding and a great way to build relationships, become valuable in the community, and make a difference in people’s lives.
SEE OTHER SIDE FOR AVAILABLE POSITIONS ...
Position: Patient Care Coordinator
We are looking for someone with these qualities:
Are you comfortable talking to strangers both in person and on the phone? Are you a self-starter? Is being “organized” a top priority in your life, and are you able to multitask and prioritize projects, while simultaneously meeting deadlines and prioritizing your day? Can you communicate effectively with people from all different backgrounds, both verbally and in writing? Are you able to speak up when you see something isn’t working, and can you anticipate the needs of other people because you show up for work knowing that the smallest details always make the difference? Do you have a positive outlook on life? Are you flexible, open to change, and committed to learning? If so, you could be just the person we are looking for to fill the position we have available in the reception and on the front desk of our busy physical therapy clinic.
Position: Doctor of Physical Therapy
We are looking for an orthopedic physical therapist. As a close-knit group, we need another health-conscious PT.
• If you are looking to spend a whole hour with your patients and not pass off care to an aide or tech, then this is the place for you. • If you have perfected the art of creating rapport with your patients, then this is the place for you. • If you like autonomy and being a self-starter, then this is the place for you. • If you align with our core values — excellence, health, and compassion — then this is a place for you.
INTERESTED? CALL 858-675-1133 OR FAX YOUR COVER LETTER AND RESUME TO 858-675-1151. • If you enjoy the ability to add aquatic therapy interventions into your patient’s plan of care, then this is a place for you. • If you enjoy solving problems and getting results with your patients, then this is a place for you. • If you are a lifelong learner, then this is the place for you.
PHYSICAL THERAPISTS TAKE THE “T” OUT OF “CAN’T” YOU CAN!
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