Archive for October, 2008

New Toys For Rehab Use

Monday, October 27th, 2008

In a recent project has been under development at the Hasbro Children’s Hospital in Providence, RI in which students are creating therapeutic toys specifically for children with Cerebal Palsy. Children with Cerebal Palsy often lack the fine motor skills needed to use controllers – common effects of the disorder include spasticity, involuntary movement and occasionally abnormal muscle tone, all of which make operating a toy that relies on the wrist, forearm and ability to make small quick movements difficult. The most beneficial toys, would not only double as fun and therapeutic, but would also increase the use of the affected limb and help to strengthen the muscles.

Not only are these toys good for physical therapy, but to reshape the brain after injury to improve function.

To learn more click on the following link: http://occupational-therapy.advanceweb.com/Article/Designing-Toys-for-Rehab.aspx

Using Iontophoresis in Physical Therapy

Friday, October 24th, 2008

The definition of Iontophoresis according to About.com  is:  A medical treatment used to deliver medication across the skin to deeper tissues by the use of electrical polarity.

Physical therapists are using this treatment as a way to deliver steroid medication to inflammation and swelling of the muscles and more recently is being used as a way to treat Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.

More info may be found here: http://www.ehow.com/how_2088372_use-iontophoresis-carpal-tunnel-syndrome.html

http://physicaltherapy.about.com/od/abbreviationsandterms/g/iontophoresis.htm

OnTrack System Endorsed by APTA

Wednesday, October 15th, 2008

The APTA recently endorsed the four-part knee bracing system to assist in the treatment of patellofemoral dysfunction which may be caused by a malaligned kneecap and insufficient muscle strength. Physical Therapists can use this bracing system as a way to eliminate knee pain under and around the kneecap, reposition the kneecap, and allow an individual to retrain and strengthen the quadriceps muscles. To learn more about this system, read the APTA’s official news release by clicking here.

Tips and Articles for Physical Therapists

Tuesday, October 7th, 2008

If you haven’t checked out the APTAs resource section, this is a wealth of tools to use if you are a PT or PTA. These brochures and tips may be downloaded from the APTA’s site to give you patients to help them deal with everything from exercise, to heart health and diabetes to posture tips for moms. Visit here for more information.

October is Physical Therapy Month!

Wednesday, October 1st, 2008

October is the National Physical Therapy Month. This month you will find a wealth of resources, and events around the US for Physical Therapists to promote their much needed services to their communities. Check out the web for some great events, products and information.