Back To Health Physical Therapy

At Back to Health, Medicine is Exercise-based!

2012-01-29T16:47:00.001-05:00

The "side effects" of exercise as medicine include: Better sleep, fewer aches and pains, more energy, better sex drive, better self image....
Back to Health, along with some of the top spine clinics and hospitals in the U.S. and abroad offers the most advanced and clinically proven exercise based treatment for chronic back and neck pain.

Ready to talk with your doctor about starting an exercise program? We can help!

Exercise IS Medicine!!!

2012-01-29T16:44:00.000-05:00

What if there was a medicine so powerful in maintaining and improving health that it could prevent and treat dozens of diseases?

This is the question asked in the national campaign called Exercise Is Medicine™, sponsored by the American Medical Association and the American College of Sports Medicine. This initiative encourages physicians to promote exercise among their patient population, assess any limitations a patient may have in terms of the type and amount of exercise they can do and then give the patient a written exercise prescription. See: www.exerciseismedicine.org for resources and information.

The patient can follow the prescription independently, or, if they feel they need guidance and supervision to get started they can take it to a health professional such as a physical therapist, athletic trainer or exercise physiologist who can help them create and carry out an exercise plan.

Research proves that exercise is powerful medicine. It has a key important role in the prevention and treatment of at least 40 diseases, including diabetes, obesity, heart disease, and hypertension. In addition, exercise allows us to maintain mobility, balance, and strength as we get older so that we can remain independent and enjoy life.

Exercise is also often the best way to manage chronic pain such as neck or back pain or arthritis pain. This is true for both physiological and psychological reasons. On the physical side, exercise increases blood flow and encourages the natural healing process; it strengthens the muscles that support the joints and spine thereby decreasing pain and improving movement. Exercise also produces brain chemicals called endorphins, which are natural pain and stress fighters. The release of endorphins decreases our perception of pain and strengthens our immune response.

On the psychological side, research proves that people who use the right kind of exercise to manage pain have better results than those who don't because it puts them back in control of their bodies; they realize that the power to manage pain lies with them! This is especially true for people who have suffered from chronic back pain and have tried everything from acupuncture to massage, to medication and injections, or even surgery. In all of these cases they are relying on someone else to "fix" them. With respect to chronic back pain, extensive clinical research shows that for most people the "fix" is ineffective or offers only temporary relief and that the best medicine is the right kind of exercise program.

It appears that part of the impediment to exercise as medicine in the US may be cultural. Our healthcare system and "modern medicine" has led many of us to expect our doctors to "fix us" with a pill, a shot, or surgical procedure that insurance will pay for. By contrast, in Germany and several other European countries, patients are expected to be a part of their recovery and healing. Ironically, the most successful and well documented program for managing back and neck pain, created here in the U.S., is utilized more and is well known to more doctors and the general public in Germany than it is here!

PS. We have that program right here at Back to Health!!

New Six Session Series Begins January 28, 2012

2011-12-31T15:47:00.000-05:00

Our third installment of this popular yoga series begins Saturday, January 28, 2012 at 11:00 a.m. and continues for the succeeding 5 Saturday mornings.

These specialized, small group yoga classes are uniquely designed for people with low back pain. Each student receives one on one attention. Classes are taught by Bill Rodowsky, who has over 200 hours of certification in therapeutic yoga and is also a licensed Physical Therapy assistant at Back to Health. Bill will teach you to stretch and strengthen so that you will be able to manage your back pain and remain active.

The class uses adaptive aids such as bolsters, chairs, blankets, and yoga straps to help students achieve therapeutic postures without strain or pain. All postures are fully adaptable to practice at home so your gains in class can be maintained.

The class is limited to 8 students so sign up soon! Call us at 954-565-0075 to join the class. A 50% deposit is required to hold your spot. You can also purchase a gift certificate for the class. Cost is $90.00 for the series. You may pay "by the class" at $19.00/class on a space available basis.

Happy Holidays!

2011-12-16T11:32:00.002-05:00

A Joyous Holiday & New Year to You!

As we reflect on the past year we realize that whatever challenges or troubles we have encountered pale in comparison to the many things we have to be grateful for including you, our readers, our present and former patients, our friends and our families.

We hope that all of you will "count your blessings", however small, so that they will lead you experience a joyous Holiday and a New Year filled with Happiness and Hope.

Darlene S. Wooldridge,

Kathleen M. Casey

and all of the staff at Back to Health

Give the Gift of Health this December!

2011-12-16T11:31:00.000-05:00

Give the Gift of Health This December!

Programs and Products to put under your tree!

"It is health that is the real wealth, not pieces of gold or silver." Mahatma Gandhi

This Holiday season consider making a gift of something that will improve the health and vitality of someone you love. We have programs you can purchase and then give certificates to wrap with a bow, and products that will enhance health that you can drive by our store and pick up wrapped! Read on! Or just go to our website at: www.backtohealthpt.com and print out some certificates or order some products!

Back to Health Programs!

2011-12-16T11:30:00.000-05:00

Purchase instructions: Click on the name of the program to learn more and check pricing on our website, then print out the certificate to wrap! Call the office at 954-565-0075 to pre-pay with a credit card and receive a code - write the code on your certificate. Don't drive anywhere!

***Happy Back Yoga Series--this is a six session series specifically designed for people with back issues, such as chronic pain or sciatica. Certificate

Back to Health Programs!

2011-12-16T11:29:00.000-05:00

*Yoga with Amy, Bill or Vanessa--Relieve stress and promote health- Saturday mornings, Wednesday afternoons. Certificate

***Sports Performance and Injury Prevention- - for your favorite young athlete - prevent painful sidelining injuries like ACL tears-Challenging and fun functional training for better performance. Certificate

Back to Health Programs!

2011-12-16T11:28:00.000-05:00

***Golf Fitness -- For the golfer on your list! Add yards to his/her drive, improve control, and avoid back pain! Certificate

***Healthy Back Program -- Do you love someone who routinely complains of back ache? We use the clinically proven MedX technology - they will feel better and be able to do things they haven't for years... Certificate

Back to Health Products and Gifts!

2011-12-16T11:26:00.000-05:00

Holiday gift items for those you love - just drive by and pick up wrapped items behind the desk at Back to Health. Sure to please! If you like call ahead for a quicker pick-up: 954-565-0075

***Cool Mesh Memory Foam Pillow- like sleeping on a layer of air- supports proper posture - $99

***Back it Ball™ - An 8 lb. ball filled with a special medium that offers spine tingling massage and gentle traction for your spine - $30

Back to Health Products and Gifts!

2011-12-16T11:25:00.000-05:00

***Contour Cloud Pillow- Unique contour shape and layers of memory foam so you wake refreshed - $30

***CountourPedic Pillow - Temperature sensitive material conforms to the shape of your neck and shoulder - $75

Back to Health Products and Gifts!

2011-12-16T11:23:00.000-05:00

***I.C.E. Down™ - Flexible-Ice Cold Packs - Non-toxic gel stays colder longer than any other cold pack - Different sizes : Large Back: $79.55; Medium Back: $57.95; Neck: $22.95; Knee $47.95.

***TheraCane™ deep pressure massager- Allows you to apply deep pressure to spot treat muscle tightness. We really like this ingenious device and frequently recommend it. $25
***BodyMed Digital Moist Heating Pad - Controlled moist heat with no water needed. 14"X27" - We love this pad for relief of muscle and joint pain. Consistent moist heat - $75

*** Foam Roller - 36" long and 6" wide - strong but not hard foam for gentle traction and massage. Used at Back to Health - $25

Back to Health Products and Gifts!

2011-12-16T11:22:00.000-05:00

***BioFreeze - The #1 pain reliever used by healthcare professionals. The active Menthol ingredient penetrates quickly - cold therapy - great relief from arthritis, sore muscles, joints and back pain. - Roll on or tube - $15
***Mattress Lab Mattresses A truly custom built mattress. For perfect fit, Mattress Lab brings their "lab" to you. Using a pressure sensitive computerized overlay on the mattress they determine your pressure points are and create a mattress designed to give you greater support where needed. Call for an appointment for your custom fit. Price comparable to other high quality mattresses.

Give the Gift of Health this December!

2011-11-30T12:51:00.001-05:00

Programs and Products to put under your tree!

"It is health that is the real wealth, not pieces of gold or silver." Mahatma Gandhi

This Holiday season consider making a gift of something that will improve the health and vitality of someone you love. We have programs you can purchase and then give certificates to wrap with a bow, and products that will enhance health that you can drive by our store and pick up wrapped!

Read on! Or just go to our website at: www.backtohealthpt.com and print out some certificates or order some products!

Programs to Improve the Quality of Life

2011-11-30T12:49:00.000-05:00

***Happy Back Yoga Series--this is a six session series specifically designed for people with back issues, such as chronic pain or sciatica. Certificate

Programs to Improve the Quality of Life

2011-11-30T12:48:00.000-05:00

***Yoga with Amy, Bill or Vanessa--Relieve stress and promote health- Saturday mornings, Wednesday afternoons. Certificate

Programs to Improve the Quality of Life

2011-11-30T12:47:00.001-05:00

***Golf Fitness -- For the golfer on your list! Add yards to his/her drive, improve control, and avoid back pain! Certificate

Products to Improve the Quality of Life!

2011-11-30T12:45:00.000-05:00

Holiday gift items for those you love - just drive by and pick up wrapped items behind the desk at Back to Health. Sure to please! If you like call ahead for a quicker pick-up: 954-565-0075

***Cool Mesh Memory Foam Pillow- like sleeping on a layer of air- supports proper posture - $99

***Back it Ball™ - An 8 lb. ball filled with a special medium that offers spine tingling massage and gentle traction for your spine - $30

***Contour Cloud Pillow- Unique contour shape and layers of memory foam so you wake refreshed - $30

***CountourPedic Pillow - Temperature sensitive material conforms to the shape of your neck and shoulder - $75

Products to Improve the Quality of Life!

2011-11-30T12:41:00.001-05:00

***Varilite Travel Pillow - Relieves stress and fatigue and properly positions your spine when you travel - $25.

*** Our own "Good On Ya"™ - In fun fabrics to roll on tight spots for on site relief- anywhere when tension builds up - $12

***I.C.E. Down™ - Flexible-Ice Cold Packs - Non-toxic gel stays colder longer than any other cold pack - Different sizes : Large Back: $79.55; Medium Back: $57.95; Neck: $22.95; Knee $47.95.

***TheraCane™ deep pressure massager- Allows you to apply deep pressure to spot treat muscle tightness. We really like this ingenious device and frequently recommend it. $25

Products to Improve the Quality of Life!

2011-11-30T12:39:00.000-05:00

***BioFreeze - The #1 pain reliever used by healthcare professionals. The active Menthol ingredient penetrates quickly - cold therapy - great relief from arthritis, sore muscles, joints and back pain. - Roll on or tube - $15

***BodyMed Digital Moist Heating Pad - Controlled moist heat with no water needed. 14"X27" - We love this pad for relief of muscle and joint pain. Consistent moist heat - $75

*** Foam Roller - 36" long and 6" wide - strong but not hard foam for gentle traction and massage. Used at Back to Health - $25

Products to Improve the Quality of Life!

2011-11-30T12:37:00.000-05:00

***Mattress Lab Mattresses A truly custom built mattress. For perfect fit, Mattress Lab brings their "lab" to you. Using a pressure sensitive computerized overlay on the mattress they determine your pressure points are and create a mattress designed to give you greater support where needed. Call for an appointment for your custom fit. Price comparable to other high quality mattresses.

Holiday Gift Certificate

2011-10-31T16:38:00.000-04:00

GIFT CERTI FICATE

Injury Prevention and Sports Performance Program

For optimal performance and injury prevention, all athletes should participate in strength and conditioning programs tailored to their sport.

Avoid !

At Back to Health we have worked with many high school athletes in sports including: volleyball, lacrosse, football, crew, pole vaulting, football,baseball, basketball, tennis and swimming
and have created a professional sports program for your child's or any athlete's safety.

This Certificate includes:
* A comprehensive evaluation of strength, flexibility, gait and movement to identify areas of weakness or imbalance.

Achieve !

* A customized plan to bring the body into balance, and increase strength,
endurance, and power.
* Twelve (12) one on one sessions to carry out the plan, measure progress,
and make adjustments when needed to achieve optimal results.

The cost is $625 for a single athlete series of 12 therapy sessions, or much less for groups of 2-4. Put it together for the holidays for the one you love!

Ouch! Motherhood!

2011-10-31T16:35:00.000-04:00

Nothing compares to motherhood. There is the sensation, both wondrous and alien, when the growing fetus moves or kicks. Soon after there are the overwhelming feelings of love and awe a new mother feels when presented with her newborn. In the succeeding weeks and months, the new mother is fascinated, sometimes to a level that friends may find tiresome, by each little change she observes in her baby.

Sounds blissful, right? Did I forget to mention the anxiety, nausea, weight gain, sleepless nights and aches and pains that are also a part of motherhood? While some of these things are unavoidable, this article addresses what we can do to minimize aches and pains and baby care related injuries to the new mom.

PREGNANCY

A pregnant woman’s center of gravity moves increasingly forward as the baby grows so it is common to lean back a bit to compensate. This can cause back pain. Indeed 50-70% of pregnant women experience some back pain or discomfort. The best way to counteract this is through good posture. Stand up straight with shoulders back and down and relaxed.

You can also try the following simple exercises to help relieve or prevent back pain and strengthen the back:

Seated "rag doll" - Sit in a chair and bend forward slowly letting your arms hanging down in front of you. Hold for 5 seconds and then sit up slowly. Repeat 5 times. Note: not recommended for sciatica.

Backward stretch-Kneel on hands and knees, with arms under your shoulders and knees under your hips. Keeping your hands where they are slowly lower your butt back toward your feet. Hold 5 seconds. Slowly return to the start position. Repeat 5 times.

Cat stretch- Start in the same position as the backward stretch. From there slowly arch your back like an angry kitty. Return to start position. Repeat 5-10 times.

Pregnancy and Post Partum

2011-10-31T16:32:00.000-04:00

POST PARTUM

Following birth your ligaments are at their longest and joints at their most unstable. This is due to the pregnancy hormone "relaxin", which helps make room for the baby to grow and be born. Also, you are likely to have a bit of extra weight and weakened abs. In sum, you are vulnerable to injury. Here are a few tips to help avoid injury so that you can enjoy your baby:

*When breast or bottle feeding use a pillow or rolled up towel to support the small of your back. Sit with good posture and put a pillow or two on your lap to bring the baby closer to your breast. Avoid the temptation to slouch forward.

*When washing or diapering your baby try to work on a surface that is waist high to avoid excess strain on your back.

*Use a stroller that has handles that are about waist high. If your stroller is not adjustable, you can purchase extenders at baby supply stores or online.

*If you have to pick something up off the floor, squat down and then lift up with your legs. Try to avoid bending and twisting at the same time until you get stronger and the stability of your joints returns. Translation: Get your husband or other household member to do the vacuuming and sweeping!

*Finally, return to an exercise routine as soon as your doctor says it is ok. If you are strong and fit, you will get more enjoyment out of motherhood and be able to keep up with your little one as he or she becomes more mobile.
NOTE: No exercise should hurt. If an exercise causes pain seek advice of a physician or a physical therapist.

New on Staff: Dr. Elizabeth Harris

2011-09-29T13:27:00.000-04:00

Join Us in Welcoming Dr.Elizabeth Harris, D.P.T., P.T. to Back to Health, as We Announce the Start of Our New Women's and Men's Health Program!

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All of us at Back to Health are very pleased to welcome our new therapist Dr. Elizabeth M. Harris. Beth is a Fort Lauderdale native who received her Clinical Doctorate in Physical Therapy from Nova Southeastern University. She earned her undergraduate degree in Exercise Science at Florida State University. In addition to orthopedic physical therapy, Beth will act as our chief therapist for Back to Health's new program in women's health and men's health. Beth is married to Mark Harris and they have a three year old son, Jack.

What is Women's and Men's Health Physical Therapy? This specialized area of physical therapy addresses pelvic floor dysfunction that can cause pelvic pain and urinary incontinence. It is also concerned with treating incontinence, pain and dysfunction resulting from childbirth in women or prostate surgery in men. In addition, the women's health therapist is skilled in providing therapy for pre and post partum aches and pains and osteoporosis.

Computerized Therapy Bed

2011-09-29T13:26:00.000-04:00

We are now featuring our custom mattress. Most mattresses are either soft, medium or firm throughout. Come test it! :) in our therapy center! Our custom mattress is designed to have varying densities to accommodate pressure points in your particular body. The true customization comes in the computerized fitting. As you lie on the pressure pad that is interfaced with the computer, we can see the areas of your body that require more relief. The mattress is then assembled to perfectly fit your body. The Mattress Lab can even come home to your house for a complimentary fitting so you can see for yourself just how special this mattress is. Remember, a good nights sleep is essential for for good health.