Northern Physical Therapy eNews
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IN THIS ISSUE

Pain Free Travel
Back Pain
Travel Tips
Youth Personal Training
Meet the Therapist
Win a Free Lunch

FEELING GOOD!

I have known Cathy DeBerti (Ms. Cathy) for three years now. After being in a car accident, I had to go to therapy for my arm and leg. Ms. Cathy was assigned to me. She came at my recovery like I was the only person she had to work on. She encouraged me to keep working toward getting better, even when I was in pain and not wanting to be there. She was always supportive, even if she had more than one patient at a time. Ms. Cathy is a person that not only thinks of her work, but of her patients and their well being. I would and have recommended Ms. Cathy to my family and friends for help with their recovery.

Ms. Cathy is one lady that is very much into helping you get through your road to recovery.
Thank-you for being there when I needed help.
- Skipper T,
Cedar Springs,
NPT Patient

DID YOU KNOW?

It’s better to use two small bags instead of one large bag, since heavy lifting can cause or aggravate back pain.

CONTACT US

Business Office
Gina Otterbein
25 Conran
Coopersville, MI 49404
E-mail Gina
Phone: 616.997.6172
Fax: 616.997.6178

 

Ready for a vacation? Don’t forget your proper body mechanics

Summer is the time of year when many of us pack our bags and head out of town for a much needed vacation. Travel also makes us more vulnerable to injury, however, because of all the lifting, twisting, walking, and sitting that our bodies aren’t used to. By remembering these few tips you’ll greatly reduce the risk, making your next vacation fun and pain-free.
  • Carry heavy items close to your body.
  • When flying, get up, stretch, and move around every 20-30 minutes if possible. Even just 10 seconds of movement will stimulate blood flow, which helps prevent stiffness in the back and legs, and reduces risks of blood clots forming in the legs. 
  • Don’t slouch. Sitting for long periods places strain on the back, and poor posture places even more stress on the back. Your lower back should be supported against the back of your seat. A rolled up sweater or small pillow can be placed in the small of your back for additional support if needed. Don’t hunch forward and keep both feet on a firm surface. Consider using cruise control for long drives so that you can keep both feet on the floor. 
  • Avoid lifting luggage immediately after sitting for extended periods, since you are at greater risk for injury when your muscles are stiff. Give yourself a few minutes to move and stretch before trying to lift anything. Don’t twist when you are loading and unloading luggage. 

Dealing with back pain from the road

If back pain does flare up while traveling, don’t ignore it. Alternating heat and ice for 10-15 minutes each can provide pain control and reduce swelling. And if you’ve been treated previously for similar back pain, gently practice some of the exercises and stretches given to you by your therapist.

Personal training for youth

Spring Cleaning Children and teens are involved in a lot of activities these days, from running and marching band to dance and motor-cross (and of course sports and athletics!) No matter what their sport, youth feel the expectation to perform better. It is not unusual that a child needs to further develop physical or athletic skills to ensure their success. That’s why Northern offers one-on-one personalized training for kids and teens. 

    NPT People Profile – Cathy DeBerti, Physical Therapist Assistant

    Bethany TillemaMy name is Cathy DeBerti and I have been working with Northern as a Physical Therapist Assistant since December of 2005. Prior to working for Northern I worked for a Cleveland suburban hospital system for 19 years with a primary background in orthopedics and cardiac rehab. I was very fortunate to find such a great company to work for here at Northern with caring, kind and professional therapists and support staff. I primarily work in our Sparta office, but often help out at Northern’s four other clinics. Even after 24 years I still enjoy coming to work each day, helping people, and seeing them improve and reach their goals.

    Who Wants to Win a FREE Lunch?

    Get health tips, therapy news, and exclusive event invitations by following us via social media. Simple "Like" our Facebook page or follow us on Twitter and you'll be entered in our monthly drawing.

       
         
       

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