Back Care Program #4

Do you ever check yourself out in the mirror? If we are honest with ourselves, we will all say YES! Regardless if you like what you see or not, we can change our posture by remembering to...Go Check Yourself Out!

Lets get more specific, we are talking about pOsTuRe. When standing for long periods of time it is very important we check ourselves out. So the next time you are in front of a mirror, remember two items to check, it will serve as a good reminder to keep your back straight throughout the day.

1. Check that your abdominals are pulled or tucked in. Here is a great exercise, contract your abdominal muscles pulling your belly button into your spine and hold this 1 minute. How long can you hold it?

2. Check that your hips are slightly tucked under with your knees relaxed. So ladies, when wearing high heels, this can encourage the opposite - a sway back- which can result in back pain and fatigue.

What is an MSD?

Maryland School for the Deaf............NO!

Management Software Development..........NO!

Metropolitan Sewer District..........NO!

Master of Science in Design..........NO!

MSD = Musculoskeletal Disorder

A Musculoskeletal Disorder is a condition where part of the muscluloskeletal system is injured over a period of time. This point of no return usually occurs from working harder, pulling/pushing faster, stretching past your limits, in other words, going past what your body normally does. MSD's can occur within minutes with improper ergonomics or bad posture, but more often than not, an MSD occurs through frequent trauma or minor achenes over a long period of time.

Symptoms of MSD's are listed below:

1. Burning or Numbness
2. Tinging or Joint Stiffness

3. Temperature or changes in Skin Color

4. Loss of range of motion

5. Loss of strength or muscle tightness

6. Joint Stiffness, swelling or pain

Most MSD's are are categorized as having to do with a joint, and the muscles, tendons, nerves, and bones surrounding that joint. Many physicians quantify MSD's as being Repetitive Stress or Over-Use Syndromes. Whichever view we may use, MSD's are a commonality in the workplace and in everyday life, causing a range of discomfort, minor aches and pains, to even time off of work. In many cases these MSD's can turn into permanent injury and loss of employment. If you have an MSD, please contact your local therapist or see your physician for effective treatment options.


Below is a non-extensive list of common musculoskeletal disorders:

1. Bursitis

2. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

3. Dequervains Syndrome

4. Tendinitis

5. Jumpers Knee

6. Runners Knee

7. Shin Splints

8. Swimmers Shoulder

9. Muscle Strains

10. Joint Sprains
11. Tennis Elbow
12. Golfers Elbow
13. Muscle Spasm

Back Care Program #3

Another main function of our backs is the role it plays as we move from

one position to the next. For many people this can be very difficult if they have already experienced a back injury or it can cause a back injury. Here are some basic steps to follow when getting in and out of bed as well as any movement from a supine or back lying position to standing or sitting. Getting up in an awkward, twisted position can sometimes cause muscle cramping, trigger points, even a strains and sprains.

Getting In Bed:

1. Sit on the edge of the bed with arms at your side.

2. Bring both arms to one side bringing your body to one side.

3. Keep your knees bend at about 45 degrees.

4. Put your feet on the bed.

5. Remain on your side and role into bed as one unit.

Getting Out of Bed:

1. Roll to one side.

2. Drop your legs off the side of the bed.

3. Push your torso up while your legs swing down.

4. You can use your legs as leverage to help bring your body up to a sitting position.

Functional Preventative Stretch #3

Shoulder Stretch

Here is another stretch to help promote an upright posture. This Shoulder stretch will help stretch the muscles in the back of the shoulder and inbetween the shoulder blades. This shoulder stretch is very important for those who frequently reach during your job or sit behind a desk all day long.

Key Points:

1. Begin by standing up straight or sitting up tall in your chair.

2. Lace fingers out infront of you and turn your palms away from your body.

3. Push your hands out infront of you by pushing your shoulders away from your body.

4. Slowly begin to look down with your head as you feel a stretch in the middle of your back.

5. Hold this position for 10-15 seconds.

6. Repeat multiple times per day.

Back Care Program #2

We all have one thing in common, we all sleep! Much of our human life is spent in bed. Sleeping posture is a critical component to our back health and safety. It is important that we #1 choose a correct bed, and #2, choose a correct position to sleep in bed.

Click here: http://oneaccordindustrialservices.blogspot.com/2008/05/better-backs-by-better-beds.html for more information on choosing a proper bed for you.

Remember these tips when you lay your head down:

1. Do Not put your arms above your head in any position. This can cause multipe issues ranging from sway back to neurological problems either in the arms or legs. - Do your hands fall asleep at night? That is why.

2. If you choose to lay on your back, use a good pillow so your head is slightly elevated from your torso, and place a pillow under your knees. This will support your neck and maintain your back in a neutral position.

3. Gold standard is curling up on your side with your knees slightly bent. Curl your pillow up and under your ear for added support including a pillow between your legs to keep your back in alignment.

For more informations email: industrial@oneaccordservices.com

Functional Preventative Stretch #2

Wrist Rotation

Avoid keeping your wrist in one position for prolonged periods of time. Break the pattern by taking multiple micro-breaks. Rotating your wrist will prevent wrist strains and sprains, improve flexibility, and increase productivity. REMEMBER, keep your elbows close to your body when you use your wrist.

Key Points:

1. Stand up straight.

2. Keep your elbows straight.

3. Rotate your wrist clock-wise, then counter clock-wise.

4. Continue for 5 seconds each way.

5. Repeat multiple times per day (Micro-Breaks)

Back Care Program #1

Maintaining a healthy back will always start with POSTURE. The first thing to remember is to always be aware of your back, whether you be in your car, to in a chair with a high or low back, to even sleeping in a recliner to a bed. So remember this tip when you sit...

1. Push your navel back toward your spine - this will create a natural curve to your back.

2. Try and keep your knees higher than your hips - if you don't you will find yourself slouching and increases pressure on your back.

3. Do not put your legs on an ottoman while sitting - this can put stress and strain directly to your low back.

For more information, email: industrial@oneaccordservices.com

All Hands on Deck for Safety at Frito Lay

Frito Lay, Casa Grande, has recently created a 12 member safety team comprised of a cross section of all employees at the Casa Grande manufacturing site. This team was created to promote discussion around how to make the site safer and improve overall wellness of the employees. These 12 team members have set their goal for 2009 to see a 30% reduction in total incidents vs. 2008. The safety team, who through regular scheduled meetings, have identified 3 main areas which they intend to target. Below is listed there target areas and initial action plans:


Target I: Aged and Tenured Work Force - 10%

• Educate tenured employees who have chronic aches through involvement with their site therapist provided by One Accord Industrial Services.
• Focus training-visual training- pictures Reminders/examples – LOTO, back safety, stretch posters, etc.
• Utilize the One Accord Industrial Newsletter through the Web site which will integration information on health tips, healthier choices of foods, etc.
• Ergo Advocate present on-site for off shift and weekend coverage.
• Posters for general awareness medical condition and ICE/badge med id
  

Target II: Process Modifications - 10%

• Write immediate work orders for faulty equipment identified by team members.
• Re-enforce safe speeds of forklifts and drivers
• Pedestrian walkway Installed w/ flashing warning light
  

Target III: Daily Operating Parameters - 10%

• Ensure proper proficiency for all new hires.
• Increase safety focus at all meetings and venues.
• Create structured pre-shift meetings with daily health related information.

There goals are simple, yet specific. Way to go Casa Grande! The project manager the safety team is Miranda Rodriquez, if you have any questions or would like more information regarding their program, you can contact her at miranda.rodriguez@fritolay.com

Functional Preventative Stretch #1

Door-Way Stretch

Train your shoulders properly by promoting good posture by stretching the muscles in front of the shoulder into the chest muscle. This will promote posterior shoulder rotation, improve your strength and prevent shoulder injuries. In other words, stand up straight like your mama taught you!

Key Points:

1. Stand up straight and bring your forearm up to a solid surface.

2. Elbows and shoulder at 90 degrees.

3. Step through with the same side leg (ie. as in the picture, step through with the left leg)

4. Hold that position for 10-15 seconds.

5. Repeat multiple times per day.

How Do I Listen to my Body While Working in a Physical Job?

When working long hours, or simply training your body, it is important that we all listen to our bodies. The biggest question is what are we listening for. The solution is very clear, but sometimes we are scared to do what is right.

Some listen so hard to their body, they become paranoid to every new symptom, feeling, or physical change. This is followed by frequent changes in habits or direction in their wellness. Others ignore the tale tale signs and don't know they have an illness or injury until its too late. This will slowly end up, in what I like to refer to as "the breaking point of your weak link", whatever that may be for you.

There is a way to find the middle of the road. Be aware of your body, and make educated decisions of your next step. The traffic light used in many circles can guide us to those proper decision making.


Green - Feel good at the end of the day, stretching through out the day improves stiffness and tightness. An ice pack may even help alleviate some sore muscles, including the ever popular Biofreeze or Painzone ointment. You understand that proper lifting and ergonomics are key to your health. If you are stuck in front of this light, keep going, great job!




Yellow - Soreness and muscle cramps last more than a few days and never goes away during a scheduled day off. Fatigue sets in and you find yourself lifting improperly and using poor ergonomic techniques, with low energy output. If you are stuck in front of this light, there is hope! Understand that you are not alone, do not re-invent the wheel here, focus on re-energizing your body!

1. Start eating energy foods such as pasta the night before work
2. Continue with nuts and cheeses during the day.
3. Drink more water, even a sports drink to balance your electrolytes.
4. Chat with your local physical therapist or wellness specialist at your work.
5. How about this question, "Am I doing everything I should be doing?"
   

Red - Soreness is now discomfort and your ability to complete a task is inhibited. Back off your work, reduce the intensity, decrease the number of repetitions and call for help. Don't try and push through the pain, stop and seek help! Call your resource and get a hold of your physical therapist. We can help you get back to GREEN, through stretching, massage, and abatement strategies.

Benefits of Green Tea in the Physically Active

Green Tea has been widely used in medicine for thousands of years. In eastern societies, Green Tea has been used from everything from cancer, to headaches and even mental disease. Much of the information that is available to the public must be scrutinized to ensure accuracy and validity in their claims. Research is a viable tool which allows health care professionals to strictly judge the effectiveness of medical information.

Research has shown that drinking Green Tea can reduce the risk of attaining some cancers, reduce inflammation, improve immune system function, and help reduce cholesterol levels. In a recent study published in the Journal of Applied and Basic Nutritional Sciences, published in May 2008, researchers show the effectiveness of reducing some of the negative effects of exercise and resistive training as seen in the physically active.

Green Tea is rich in a substance called polyphenols. Polyphenols are one of many powerful anti-oxidants that help reduce free radicals within our bodies. Due to the high anti-oxident levels which are present in Green Tea, research has shown that daily consumption of Green Tea reduced the amount of free radicals, and significant reduction in lipid hydroperoxide, which is an indicator of post exercise oxidative stress.

Another study found in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, published in November 1999, showed that drinking caffeine and Green Tea burned more calories than just drinking caffeine. So if you have a few pounds to shed, Green Tea may be a smart choice.

Now, how does this apply to me? Whether you trying to shed a few pounds or work in a physically demanding job, drinking Green Tea can help reduce damage to the muscoloskeletal system by reducing free radicals and prevent oxidative damage.

It is recommended that you drink anywhere from 4 to 10 cups a day of Green Tea. However you look at it, it is a reliable source of anti-oxidants. Although there are many brands and types of Green Tea in the market today, the best is always natural and brewed. In general, here are some safe guidelines for you to consider on your next Green Tea purchase:

1. Avoid Green Tea Energy Drinks - Too much caffeine
2. Avoid instant or Bottled Green Tea - There may be other chemicals added
3. Look for regular Green Tea you can brew - Most natural

Resources:

Training & Conditioning - August 2008

American Journal of Clinical Nutrition - November 1999

Journal of Applied and Basic Nutritional Sciences - May 2008

Chair Massages Available Now

One Accord Industrial is now offering a valuable adjunct to early intervention for all non-occupational discomfort, Massage Therapy. Massage therapy is another tool to maintain wellness in your life.

Massage Therapy is made available as a post treatment program for our patients in the clinical setting. With the great benefits, we would like to now make Massage Therapy available to you as an employee and general public as part of your personal wellness program.

Our program is run by Christopher Grammer who is a licensed massage therapist. Chris specializes in all areas, but not just limited to upper and lower extremities.

The benefits of massage are vast and effective. It can be used to reduce and eliminate inflammation, reduce tension, reduce scar tissue, help reduce pain associated with arthritis, and improve wellness and balance to your body. Chris is flexible and willing to travel for office functions or safety fairs.

Prices

• Half hour table massage for $35


• Chair massages also available for $1 a min. up to 20 min.


• Couple massages are also available by appointment

If you would like to make an appointment, please call (520) 836-8621

Have you seen athletes wearing tape in the Olympics?

The use of Kinesio Taping techniques have been widely used since the mid 90's as a valuable treatment technique for muscuoloskeletal pain in the United States. Thanks to Dr. Kenzo Kase, the founder of the Kinesio Taping Method, Kinesio taping is the treatment of choice on the playing field or in the workplace.

The Kinesio Taping Method is used for lymphathic drainage, pain relief, improving range of motion, decrease inflammation, support during physical activities, and aid in rehabilitation. Unlike other types of modalities it is easy to recognize the vast benefits of Kinesio Taping to our patients. Kinesio Taping at a treatment level allows our clinicians to provide relief 24 hours a day for 3-4 days per application. With Kinesio Taping, as many of the leaders in the field of Kinesio Taping state there is no such thing as "off" treatment time. The Kinesio Tape works continuously until the tape is removed. The Kinesio Taping Method reduces costs, timely, and effective.

Today, like in sports, the Olympics have been a grand stage to show the effectiveness of Kinesio Taping as many of our Olympic athletes are using Kinesio Taping to reduce pain and help improve function during competition.

With the vast benefits observed we are now offering Kinesio Taping as adjunct option of care to all of our patients and employees we serve for wellness and rehabilitation. Please see our site therapist or clinical therapist about this valuable option to help reduce your discomfort.

So the next time you see others around you with tape on their skin, remember, Kinesio Tape.

Therapist On-Call

"The help you need to make decisions about your wellness and health"

This service is geared to provide you the employee with valuable insight regarding your health day or night.

Through the years we have been able to predict when injuries are bound to happen. However the true nature of discomfort is there is no equation that can be completely accurate. Sometimes muscoloskeletal or wellness related discomfort can happen at the most inconvenient times after work, in the middle of the night, or even during your day off. 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, employees are encouraged to contact us by e-mail or by telephone for a free health consultation.

You will speak to a well qualified Doctor of Physical Therapy who will do the following:

1. Identify and Evaluate your signs and symptoms


2. Provide education for quick and effective 1st aid


3. Refer to one of our convenient valley wide clinic locations


4. Recommend continued guidance for a full recovery


5. Access to our growing and broad data base of health and wellness topics

To speak to a Doctor of Physical Therapy 24/7, please call (877) 836-8652 or e-mail/chat at industrial@oneaccordservices.com

Osteoarthritis Another Health Detriment Of Obesity

by Physical Therapy SOAP Notes

In addition to coronary artery disease, type 2 diabetes, and hypertension, being overweight is also a risk factor for osteoarthritis (OA), resulting in painful and restricted movement, according to new research.

Stephen P. Messier, PhD, FACSM, presented a lecture on The Burden of Obesity: A Biomechanical Perspective at the 55th Annual Meeting of the American College of Sports Medicine. Messier has been involved in research on understanding and treating OA for more than 25 years. His current work looks at the biomechanics of obesity among adults aged 55 and older.

He says extra weight also puts added stress on joints, impacts movement, affects gait (how a person walks), increases foot pressure, and decreases strength.
Messier notes that people who are overweight or obese have a higher risk of OA and the progression of the disease is greater. Every excess pound of body weight puts an additional 4-pound stress on the knee, he explains, adding, "A weight gain of about 11 pounds over a 10-year period causes a 50% increase in the likelihood of developing OA."
Messier points out that OA is the leading cause of disability among older adults. It affects about 27 million older adults in the United States.

In looking at the biomechanics of walking, Messier comments that being overweight can change an individual's gait, thus causing or exacerbating joint pain. In addition, obesity creates more pressure on the feet. This pressure can contribute to plantar fasciitis, a painful inflammatory condition caused by excessive wear to the connective tissue that supports the arch of the foot.
Obese individuals—those with a body mass index (BMI) greater than 30—are five to six times more likely to have plantar fasciitis than individuals with a normal BMI (18.5 to 25).
In addition to joint and foot pain, obesity lessens a person's physical strength, which can impact activities of daily living.

But there is good news. In his work, Messier found that weight loss and exercise can improve function and reduce the pain from OA. His research shows that a five percent drop in body weight, combined with a moderate exercise program, results in a 24-percent increase in function, and a 30-percent decrease in pain over an 18-month period. For a 250-pound individual, this translates to a weight loss of 12.5 pounds with moderate physical activity, such as walking 30 minutes a day, five days a week.

Regular Exercise Can Help Delay Aging

by Physical Therapy SOAP Notes

A recent study showing that maintaining aerobic fitness through middle age could delay biological aging by 12 years underscores the benefits of incorporating even a modest exercise program into one's daily routine, according to the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA).

The study, published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine (March 11, 2008), shows aerobic exercise improves the body's oxygen consumption and its ability to generate energy, which, in turn, leads to the slowing and possible reversal of the inevitable decline of our body's function.

"If we, as a population, walked briskly 30 minutes a day, healthcare as we know it would change drastically in the United States," said Steven Tepper, PT, PhD, a professor of physical therapy at, among others, the University of Maryland and the University of Delaware.

"This study is particularly relevant because it shows a direct correlation between regular exercise and longer life expectancy," Tepper says, who has long studied the effects of 30 minutes of daily brisk walking or equivalent activity.

The British Journal of Sports Medicine study concluded that a regular exercise program can slow or reverse the loss of aerobic fitness—typical of behavior observed in middle-aged and retirement aged people—reducing the individual's biological age and prolonging independence.

MRSA - Superbug

A new antibiotic- resistant form of the bacteria has been identified
in rising numbers of young and healthy people in the United States, marking the emergence of a new public health threat.

Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus, also known as community-acquired MRSA. It is an easily transmissible and can lead to serious skin infections. MRSA has been an ongoing and serious problem in many health related settings around the world for more than 30 years. MRSA is resistant to methicillin and other antibiotics typically used to treat common staph infections and is usually found in people who were recently hospitalized or spent time in a health care setting.

MRSA can cause a skin infection with redness and swelling, possibly resulting in boils, blisters or abscesses. An infection can be treated with alternative antibiotics or by draining the skin wound. While most community-acquired MRSA infections are mild, severe invasive conditions such as pneumonia and necrotizing fasciitis have resulted.

MRSA infections occur in otherwise healthy people who have not been recently (within the past year) hospitalized or had a medical procedure (such as dialysis, surgery, catheters) are known as community-associated (CA)-MRSA infections. According to the CDC, 25 to 30% of the population carry the staph bacteria.

If you feel you have MRSA:

1. Evaluate skin lesion for underlying abscess formation, crepitus, fluctuance and sinus drainage.

2. Prevention Strategies : clean any fresh wounds (e.g. lacerations and abrasions) thoroughly.

3. To reduce person-to-person spread, educate MRSA-infected or colonized patients regarding good hand hygiene.

4. Reduce as much as possible use of shared objects, such as athletic equipment, towels, and personal items such as razors; and wash towels and sheets frequently in hot water.

5. Encourage employees to wash hands frequently, and clean and protect any open wounds to avoid transmission.

For more information please see MRSA links in the health and wellness section on this page. MRSA is a serious infection, please take it seriously.

Better Backs by Better Beds?

Kim Bergholdt, DC; Rasmus N. Fabricius, DC; Tom Bendix, MD, DrMedSci - Medscape Today

A study was done to objectively evaluate 3 structurally different mattresses relative influence on patients with chronic low back pain (CLBP).

In several advertisements, it is proclaimed that certain mattresses have a positive effect on low back pain, and especially a hard mattress is commonly believed to have a positive effect.

One hundred sixty chronic low back pain patients were randomized to 1 of 3 groups, having a mattress/bed mounted in their sleeping room for 1 month. The beds were: (1) waterbed (Akva), (2) body-conforming foam mattress (Tempur), and (3) a hard mattress (Innovation Futon). At baseline and after 4 weeks, a blinded observer interviewed the patients on low back pain levels (0-10), daily function (activities of daily living, 0-30), and on the amount of sleeping hours/night.

Results: Both the waterbed and the foam mattress seemed superior to the hard mattress, especially when using the probably most relevant worst case data. There were no relevant difference between the effects of the water bed and the foam bed.

Conclusion: The Waterbed and foam mattress' did influence back symptoms, function and sleep more positively as apposed to the hard mattress, but the differences were small.

When looking for a mattress for your home, consider the following:

1. Better sleep at night leading to a greater sense of well being, which may affect the perception of pain during the day.

2. The back should probably be kept more or less in a neutral position, so that long lasting end-range positions of 1 or more tender spinal joints are avoided. To obtain this demand, the mattress should be appropriately soft, conforming body curvatures by having a reasonable capacity to equalize the pressure. How close the spinal posture should mimic that of the standing posture is unclear.

3. The capability of easy turning from side to side to avoid a painful loaded twist in the back.

4. A specific mattress may influence intervertebral disc nutritional flow positively or negatively as a function of spinal movement, because movement affects the discal metabolism. It is likely that the significance of this factor varies between those being sedentary or physically active during the daytime.

5. A waterbed and a body-contour foam mattress generally influenced back symptoms, function, and sleep more positively than a hard mattress, but the differences were small.

Products for Sale

Employees often inquire what they can use at home to help reduce daily discomfort. Listed below is an incomplete list of items which you may purchase directly from your on-site physical therapist at a reduced cost to you the employee. In connection with specified 1st aid measures your on-site therapist has for you, lets work together to help you work toward retirement. If you have an item which you do not see listed below, please email industrial@oneaccordservices.com or call 1-877-836-8652 so we can help you find that item.

Elasto-Gel Ice/Heat Pack

• Treatments last up to 30 minutes
• Tough, flexible gel covered with a soft four-way stretch material
• Attached elastic straps secure wraps to preferred treatment site
• Remains soft and flexible in temperatures down to -20° F
• Can be heated in microwave

Sombra

• Special blend of six natural plant extracts in combination with menthol, capsaicin and witch hazel
• Synergistic effect detoxifies tight, sore joints; and relieves arthritic pain, muscle soreness and inflammation; penetrates immediately; won’t stain clothing

Biofreeze

BIOFREEZE products can effectively help relieve pain from:
• Sore Muscles & Muscle Sprains
• Back, Shoulder, Neck Pain
• Arthritis
• Painful Ankle, Knee, Hip & Elbow Joints
• Muscular Strains

Cervical Pillows

• Help reduce difficulty sleeping and reduce neck pain
• Two lobes of different firmness—one medium and one firm for versatile support and comfort
• Convoluted foam between lobes gives support to head during postural changes
• Covered with washable polycotton fabric

Foam Roller

• Pilates, yoga, rehabilitation, and many other exercises can be enhanced with the addition of foam rollers.
• Use them to help develop balance, postural alignment, and flexibility or as support for dynamic strength exercises.
• Foam rollers come in various sizes and denseness, with the more dense rollers being ideal for self-myofascial release and massage therapy.
• Foam rollers are available in round or half round with the option of 12 or 36 inches in length to fit all levels of user's abilities and needs.

Exercise Tubing

• Progressive exercise system for improving strength, mobility and flexibility
• Economical
• Same great quality as higher priced name brands, yet easy on your budget
• Extremely versatile for unlimited exercise techniques and uses

Theraball

• Improve posture, muscle awareness
• Integrate stengthening and flexibility exercises easily
• Comes in different sizes to fit the individual
• Used diversly for balance traning

Stretch Out Strap

• Patented Stretch Out Strap assists with effective stretching without the need for a partner
• This type of stretching involves a combination of isotonics, isometrics, and prolonged stretch to achieve increased range of motion in the joints and improve flexibility in various muscle groups
• Muscular StrainsInstructional booklet demonstrates over thirty different stretches
• Muscular StrainsAlso available with 17-minute stretching video

Physical Therapist Offer Low-Cost Solution to Increasing Health Costs

Put out by the American Academy of Orthopedic Manual Therapist for immediate release:

February 14, 2008

Health care expenditures for patients with spinal conditions are rising without an associated increase in health status, according to a February, 2008 research report appearing in the Journal of the American Medical Association. The study suggest that Americans may be wasting their money for treatments as the overall proportion of people with impaired function increased from 1997 - 2005, despite a 65% increase in expenditures to treat spine conditions...

"I think the truth is we have perhaps oversold what we have to offer," said Richard A. Deyo, a physician at Oregan Health & Science University in Portland and a coauthor of the report. "All the imaging we do, all the drug treatments, all the injections, all the operations have some benefit for some patients. But I think in each of those situations we've begun using those tests or treatments more widely than science would really support."

Particularly discouraging in this recent report was an increase in pharmaceutical expenditures of 171% during the study period. This suggest that physicians are over-utilizing an ineffective treatment for spine pain.

"You have drugs, you have surgery, or you have us," explained Flynn. "The reality is that very few treatments have shown the ability to truly affect patients with spine conditions. Physical therapists can do just that.

A separate study in 2006 demonstrated that patients with back pain were experiencing an increase in the rates of imaging and injections, meanwhile realizing a significant under-utilization of physical therapy.

For more information on the benefits of physical therapy and what they can do for you within the bounds of on-site physical therapy or for your family, please seek out your on-site physical therapist or call 1-877-836-8652

Memorial Day Push - 2008

During this next upcoming Memorial day holiday, and the weeks in preparation for Memorial day, lets keep safety in mind. If you experience increased discomfort please notify your DSL/Resource.Remember to take a few extra minutes to stretch, and keep yourself hydrated with the increasing temperatures. Heat related cramping and muscle fatigue associated with increased hours are very common during this time of year. Please seek out your on-site therapist or safety point for further guidence. Here is a simple, but effective stretch for you to do during your work day. Stop, with hands on the waist, gently lean back displacing your upper body behind your hips. Most patients view this as back stretch, however, this is actually a stretch for your abdominal muscles. This is a great stretch to facilitate an upright posture. Repeat several times with out pain. Please see your on-site therapist for more stretching options.

Frito Lay - Albuquerque Safety Fair

This month we had the privilage to join the team in Abluquerque for their annual safety fair. We took this time to provide OSHA 1st aid, encourage staff and employees, as well as conduct ergonomic and behavior based safety observations. We look forward to returning for ergonomic training and formal training for on-site physical therapy through One Accord in the near future.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

There have been some interest surrounding Rheumatoid Arthritis this past month. Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) affects over 2 million poeple in the United States. RA roughly begins between the ages of 25 and 45, while it cannot be passed along to your family, there is a specific gene that has been identified that can make your more likely to get RA. One fact that has been identified is that women are more suspeptable than men.

RA is an inflammatory process because your own immune system attacks your own cells, which is considered an autoimmune disorder. This can weaken your joints and in time deteriote bones and cartilage within your joints. Some common symptoms of RA include: fatigue, morning stiffness, muscle aches, loss of appitite and weakness, and joint pain. Othere symptoms, which are not as common, include: redness, swelling, round nodules on joints and skin, deformities, and a low grade fever.

Treatment include: Disease modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs): These drugs are the current standard of care for RA, in addition to rest, strengthening exercises, and anti-inflammatory drugs. Methotrexate (Rheumatrex) is the most commonly used DMARD for rheumatoid arthritis.Leflunomide (Arava) may be substituted for methotrexate. Anti-inflammatory medications such as aspirin and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofen and others. Although NSAIDs work well, long-term use can cause stomach problems, such as ulcers and bleeding, and possible heart problems.

Physical Therapy can aid in pain relief and prevention by using range-of-motion exercises and individualized exercise programs prescribed by a physical therapist can delay the loss of joint function. Joint protection techniques, heat and cold treatments, and splints or orthotic devices to support and align joints may be very helpful.Sometimes therapists will use special machines to apply deep heat or electrical stimulation to reduce pain and improve joint mobility. Frequent rest periods between activities, as well as 8 to 10 hours of sleep per night, are recommended.

If you suspect you have RA, take the Rheumatoid Arthritis Screening Quiz found in the following link: http://arthritis.about.com/od/rheumatoidarthritis/l/blrheumarthquiz.htm
It is a good idea to seek your personal physician for blood specific tests (Rheumatoid Factor) to be specifically diagnosed as well as seeking the aid of a rheumatologist.

Sources:
Cecil's Essentials of Medicine, Carpenter, Griggs, Loscalzo
http://www.enbrel.com/ra/understanding-ra.jsp?channel=GOSEA&subchannel=SRAC
http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/rheumatoid-arthritis/DS00020/DSECTION=4
http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/000431.htm

Family Safety Day - Casa Grande 2008

This April Casa Grande Traffic Center conducted their 2nd annual family safety day. The event was a huge success incorperating safety and awareness into their community. The day started with driver training, which included, ergonomic training on proper shoulder mechanics, sitting ergonomic assessments, behavior based safety observations, and an obsticle course for the drivers to show off their skills. Great job Casa Grande!

Introduction

Dear Leadership,

As the challenge of occupational related injuries rise, we have developed another tool that can help our clients succeed in the areas of health, safety and prevention. We will be sending periodic updates which we will post in the form of a company blog which will be geared to provide two services. First, to communicate what is new within our company including innovative abatement strategies, and cutting edge 1st Aid techniques. And second, to educate our clients in the areas of both health and wellness. As our company grows, it is our goal to continue to provide and promote strategies in healthy living in all areas of your lives. Please take time and look through our company blog and provide us with your feedback as to what you would like to see and learn. Help us, help you, “Work Toward Retirement”!

Sincerely,