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PATIENT PULSE 15373 Innovation Dr #175 | San Diego, CA 92128 | (858) 675-1133 12171 World Trade Dr | San Diego, CA 92128
(858) 675-1133 | www.waterpt.com
When I was in college, a professor shared some valuable wisdom with me. He said, “When you think about everything you learn today, remember that half of it will be obsolete in five years.” His point wasn’t that our efforts were futile, but rather that physical therapy is always evolving. To a lot of people, that information might be frustrating or intimidating. To me, it is energizing. One of my favorite things about my job is that there’s always something new to learn. To that end, I’m always looking out for educational opportunities and chances to speak with colleagues. At the end of this month, I’ll be attending the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) Combined Sections Meeting (CSM) in New Orleans. The APTA has 18 specialty sections — I belong to the orthopedic, aquatic, and private practice sections — and each will be represented at the conference. Because so many specialists will be in attendance, it’s a chance to do some cross-training. I will be able share my expertise while learning from other therapists with different specialties than my own. This exchange of ideas is one of the things I’m most looking forward to about the trip. With over 12,000 professionals from the physical therapy world attending, I’m sure there will be no shortage of interesting conversation. In addition to being able to learn from other therapists, the CSM is the best place to get hands-on with new technology and study the latest research in the field of physical therapy. Seeing the latest-and-greatest in the field is always invigorating. Whenever I’m introduced to a new technique, procedure, or methodology, I find myself imagining how it could apply to our patients. I’m a geek when it comes to this stuff, and I want to provide the best possible care to everyone who comes through our door. I hope I never reach a point where I feel satisfied in my knowledge and experience. To be honest, I doubt that day will ever come. Physical therapy isn’t just my career; it’s my passion. The fact that there’s an infinite amount to learn keeps me on my toes and inspired. EDUCATION NEVER ENDS Learning the Latest for Our Patients
You probably won’t be surprised to learn that I’m looking forward to exploring the New Orleans culinary scene during the hours I’m not learning about physical therapy. The thought of beignets and etouffee is an irresistible one for a hopeless foodie like me. It’s hard to think of a city in America with a more unique culinary history, but there is one iconic New Orleans beverage I’ll be sure to steer clear of: the legendary Hurricane cocktail. I tried one many years ago, and I think I got a hangover before I finished it. Before I go, I want to take a moment to pay a Valentine’s Day tribute to my husband, James. Though he won’t be heading to New Orleans with me, he’s my all-time favorite travel partner and the best husband a person could ask for. I’m excited that we’ll be able to spend the holiday together before I head off to the CSM. And if he misses me while I’m gone, he can always make a Hurricane to join me in spirit. I just hope he has some ibuprofen on hand for when the headache sets in.
–Beth Scalone
1 (858) 675-1133
FORCED SHARING IS NOT CARING TEACH CHILDREN GENEROSITY THROUGH AUTONOMY
One of the most common principles of early childhood education is teaching children to play well with others, and oftentimes, this includes teaching them to share. While this aspect of education seems like a no-brainer to some, others have started to question the importance of sharing. In fact, this movement is taking the internet and nation by storm, one blog and social media post at a time, and it’s gaining traction with parents and preschools alike. According to Laura Markham, clinical psychologist at Columbia University and author of “Peaceful Parent, Happy Siblings,” “Forcing children to share doesn’t teach the lessons we want them to learn.” During preschool, kids are learning to meet their own needs, and rather than teaching kids to speak up for themselves, forced sharing teaches them the following list.
So, what should be taught? Markham says children need to be given the tools to handle sharing situations. “We do want our child to notice when another child would like a turn, and to ensure that child gets a turn,” she said. “And when someone else has something that our child wants, we hope that she’ll be able to control her impulses and use her words to work out an arrangement so that she can use the object in the future.” When we teach kids that they can use an object for as long as they’d like and that they can give it to the other child when they are finished, we are teaching them the following list.
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I can ask for what I want. Sometimes, I get a turn soon; and sometimes, I have to wait.
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I don’t have to whine and convince my parent that I need a turn, because I know I will get it. When I give my toy to my sibling, I feel good inside. I’m a generous person.
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If I cry loud enough, I get what I want.
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I am in constant competition to get what I need.
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It’s okay to cry, but it doesn’t mean I get my way.
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Parents are in charge of who gets what and when, and it’s arbitrary, depending only on their whim and how dramatically I beg for my turn.
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If I make my parent miserable, I’ll get more time with what I want.
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I don’t get everything I want.
According to Markham, this helps your child learn patience and empathy, which may leave them better equipped to handle bigger situations in the future. Forced sharing may seem positive in nature, but the harmful competition it creates may rob children of the chance to be truly generous and communicate their feelings and desires.
Forced sharing undermines children’s ability to lose themselves in play while also plaguing their relationships with other children with constant competition. In the end, neither child gets to experience true generosity from their peer.
SPOTLIGHT ON JORDAN LEVINE
For Dr. Jordan Levine, the path toward becoming a physical therapist began when he was in high school. “I was 15 years old when I dislocated my shoulder playing baseball,” Jordan says. “I had to go through physical therapy. It was because of that I became inspired to become a physical therapist.” From there, Jordan’s love for the field grew. His experience made him realize how much time and effort physical therapists put into their patients. It also pointed him toward his future career path. After graduating high school, Jordan went to college with the determination and drive to help others the way he was helped. What does he think makes North County so special? “Our attention to our patients,” he says firmly. “It’s one of the most important factors here at the therapy center. Patient attention is something we pride ourselves in, as we know how important it is to get every person who needs and relies on us to return to their everyday lives.” Jordan has a particular passion for helping athletes. “It means a lot to help athletes get back on the field.” When he’s not at work, Jordan likes spending quality time with his wife, Liz, or having an adventure in the great outdoors. He enjoys hiking, camping, running, competing in kettlebell lifting, and anything that gets him outside A Dedicated Team Member
to enjoy nature at its finest. As a physical therapist, Jordan knows that while exercise is important, it’s equally important not to push yourself beyond your limitations. Jordan practices this himself while doing the things he loves, and he encourages others to do the same. We’re lucky to have someone as dedicated as Jordan on our team. He helps show what we here at North County Water and Sports Therapy Center are all about.
www.waterpt.com 2
The Skinny on Plantar Fasciitis
Most people take their two feet for granted, assuming they’ll remain resilient and pain-free forever — that is, until an injury strikes. That’s when we realize just how much we depend on our feet to navigate our everyday lives. Plantar fasciitis is among the most common of these injuries, affecting upward of 2 million Americans every year and accounting for more than 11 percent of all foot injuries that send patients to a specialist. If you’re suffering from persistent foot pain, it’s important to understand the basics of the syndrome. Armed with this knowledge, you can determine whether the symptoms of plantar fasciitis match your own and figure out the best way to heal your injury. The heel of the foot is a complicated network of muscles and ligaments, all supported by a thick band of tendons called the plantar fascia. This structure holds up the arch of the foot and undergoes tension as the foot bears weight. As you walk, the plantar fascia elongates and tightens repeatedly, acting like a spring that conserves energy and facilitates a proper gait.
degenerative decay, particularly at the point at which it connects to the heel. This can result in severe pain across the heel, forcing you to avoid putting your full weight on the bottom of the affected foot. Typically, this pain is worse when you first get up in the morning or after you take your first steps following a long sedentary period. Plantar fasciitis is especially common among people 40–60 years of age, but it can affect individuals at any stage of their life, particularly runners, military personnel, teachers, restaurant workers, and other professionals who spend most of their day on their feet. Luckily, the syndrome is often treatable through noninvasive methods like physical therapy. Depending on your particular case, an experienced physical therapist can guide you through a set of exercises that will reduce your pain, increase your range of motion, and steadily heal your damaged fascia. If you believe you may suffer from plantar fasciitis, it’s vital to seek treatment soon. It most likely will only get worse until it’s addressed.
However, with repetitive stress and/or overuse, the plantar fascia may begin to suffer
TAKE A BREAK
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Hoping to shave off those extra holiday pounds or keep up with your New Year’s resolution? Look no further than this easy winter detox salad!
INGREDIENTS
DIRECTIONS
For the Dressing •
For the Salad •
1. To make the salad, add all ingredients to a large bowl; toss to combine. 2. To make the dressing, add all ingredients to a blender or food processor. Pulse until smooth. Season to taste with salt and pepper or add extra honey for a sweeter taste. 3. Drizzle dressing over salad and serve immediately.
1 large carrot, roughly chopped
3 cups chopped kale leaves
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2 cups chopped broccoli florets
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1/4 cup rice wine vinegar
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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2 cups chopped red cabbage
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1 tablespoon finely chopped ginger
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1 cup matchstick carrots
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1 tablespoon honey
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1 cup chopped cilantro
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1 tablespoon white miso
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1/2 cup toasted slivered almonds
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1/2 teaspoon sesame oil
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1/3 cup sliced green onions
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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1 diced avocado
Recipe inspired by GimmeSomeOven.com
3 (858) 675-1133
PRST STD US POSTAGE PAID BOISE, ID PERMIT 411
Monday - Friday 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. (858) 675-1133 www.waterpt.com
15373 Innovation Dr #175 San Diego, CA 92128
INSIDE THIS ISSUE
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The Value of Continuing Education
Sharing Isn’t Caring When It’s Forced Spotlight on Jordan Levine Why Does My Heel Hurt Every Morning? Whip Up This Winter Salad in a Flash!
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San Diego Events Calendar
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SAN DIEGO EVENTS
Events to Fill Your Calendar
‘BONNIE AND CLYDE’ ON VALENTINE’S DAY When: Feb. 14, 6–9 p.m. Where: The Headquarters at Seaport
SAN DIEGO UNDIE RUN/WALK When: March 3, 7 a.m. to 12 p.m. Where: 2750 N. Mission Bay Drive Yes, you read that right! People are taking to the streets dressed in underwear- themed outfits to spread awareness of colon cancer. The Colon Cancer Alliance hopes to get people talking about the usually tabooed disease by encouraging participants to wear matching team boxer shorts, colorful briefs, or possibly logo-branded shorts for corporate teams. Join the cause by dressing up in matching boxers with your buddies!
Spending a day with your loved one on Valentine’s Day is always a top priority. After taking your significant other out for a nice dinner, why not go to a free showing of “Bonnie and Clyde”? This 1967 classic will be playing at the former police headquarters, creating an interesting setting to view this biographical crime film. All you need to bring is a blanket or chair and someone to enjoy the outdoor movie with!
CHINESE NEW YEAR FOOD AND CULTURAL FAIR When: Feb. 24–25, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Where: San Diego’s Chinatown District
New Year’s has come and gone, but that doesn’t mean we don’t have anything else to celebrate. The Chinese New Year will be celebrated with dancing, cultural performances, and mouth-watering food lining the streets of Chinatown. Your whole family will enjoy celebrating the lunar new year at this free event. Come immerse yourself in the Chinese New Year celebration and welcome in the Year of the Dog!
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A: This is a common question, and one we hear from a lot of people. Before I answer this for you, I want to walk you through a simple test. We will call it the “Foot Pain Audit,” and it will tell us if PT can help you or not … Q: “I WOKE UP WITH PAIN IN MY FOOT 3 DAYS AGO, AND IT HASN’T GONE AWAY. CAN PHYSICAL THERAPY HELP ME?”
Part 1: The ”Stand and Walk in the Morning” Test 1. After waking, stand up and walk 3 feet. 2. When you bear weight, does it hurt on the bottom of your foot or heel? 3. Does your pain go away as the day goes on?
Is your pain worse in the morning after you wake up, or is it the same all the time? If you felt pain, soreness, or stiffness standing up in the morning, check here 5
All right, next:
Part 2: The “Toe Pull” Test 1. Sit in a chair and maintain good posture. 2. Cross your painful foot over the opposite leg and pull your big toe back toward your ankle as far as you can. 3. Repeat with the other toe. Did you have any pain, soreness, or stiffness in one toe more than the other? If so, then write it down here. Note what you felt with each movement. (For example, “My right toe was stiff and could not go back as far as my left one.”) _______________________________________________________________________________________
Part 3: The “Plantar Fascia Tenderness” Test 1. Sit in a chair and maintain good posture. 2. Cross the painful foot over the opposite leg. 3. Press your fingers into the arch of your painful foot.
Was one side more tender than the other? Write down what you felt here: ________________________________________________________________________________________
Now that the test is done, let’s take a look at this.
A simple rule we use in PT is:
If the pain is reproducible, then it’s reducible.
This means that if one of these movements made your foot pain, soreness, or stiffness worse, then there’s a good chance we can help you with physical therapy.
How does physical therapy help? A thorough exam is performed to help determine the cause of the problem.
Successful treatment involves: • Manual, hands-on therapy
• Stretching and strengthening exercises to include the body as a whole, not just the foot • Assessing shoe wear and making recommendations for appropriate foot support • Dynamic taping used to support the arch and reduce short-term pain Research has shown that stretching the calf muscles is effective, especially in the early stages, at preventing symptoms from worsening. For the stretch to be effective, correct foot and knee alignment is key. With the following stretches, keep the inside arch of your foot lifted slightly and your knee tracking over the second toe. You should feel a stretch in your calf or back of the heel.
Hold for 30 seconds and repeat 3 times each side, 3 times per day.
Do you have heel pain? Did you have pain with at least one of the “foot pain audit” tests? Do you want to find out more about how physical therapy can help?
CALL 858.675.1133 TODAY TO SCHEDULE YOUR FREE HEEL PAIN SCREENING with one of our physical therapists who specialize in
helping people with heel pain. Offer expires March 15th, 2018 ***Bring this sheet with you to your appointment.***
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