physical therapy

Here’s another nice infographic, this time about the perils of cushy running shoes. Barefoot or minimalist running is all the rage these days. This illustration points out some of the history of running shoes as well as a few common ailments that are now being blamed on the increased heel strike often associated with running in padded running shoes.

The Harm Caused By Running Shoes

The infographic was created by www.xraytechnicianschools.net

Physical activity is essential for combating many physical problems yet current figures suggest that older Americans aren’t getting enough. This infographic effectively breaks the numbers down for you.

Highlights:

• 22% of those 65 and older report regular physical activity
• estimated cost of falling injuries by 2020 is $32.3 billion
• 4 in 10 of people 65 or older have difficulty with at least one basic activity of daily living (ADL)

Physical Activity and Older Americans Infographic via Evergreen Rehab

This is a great infographic about the negative effects of sitting. It was created by Medical Billing & Coding and is definitely worth a look.

A few of the interesting items on the graphic are:

• we spend more time sitting than sleeping
• sitting 6+ hours a day makes you 40% more likely to die within 15 years than someone who sites less than 3
• obese people sit 2.5 more hours per day than thin people
• calorie burning drops to 1 per minute when you are sitting
• each extra hour of watching tv = 11% higher death risk
• sitting in a reclined position puts less strain on your back

 

Via: Medical Billing And Coding

Postpartum Risk and Physical Therapy

The Wellnes Blog at TIME.com recently posted a story describing a study done that showed the significant benefits a of Physical Therapy program on the reduction of postpartum depression in new moms. The study was conducted by the University of Melbourne’s Physiotherapy Department and was published in the journal Physical Therapy. In it the researchers found that women in the study showed a 50% less chance of experiencing postpartum depression.

The researchers state that more studies are necessary to confirm the benefits beyond the initial month that the study followed up.

The full text can be found here. A PDF version is also available.

Physical therapy may reduce postpartum risk for some new mothers – Wellness – TIME.com.

Shovel With Care

A great deal of snow has fallen in many parts of the world this year and with it has come the usual flood of shoveling-related injuries. The Omaha World-Herald has a timely story outlining many points that should be considered when venturing out to clear your walks and driveways. Some of the important ones include:

• know your limits
• set limits for yourself
• don’t lift if you can push instead
• avoid twisting
• wear footwear with good traction

Most of the tips are simply common sense but a quick reminder can often prevent unnecessary injuries. For more on these and other snow shoveling tips, see the original article here:

Omaha.com – The Omaha World-Herald: Living – The scoop on proper shoveling.