Fauquier Health's PM&R Team participate in Triathalon

Left to right: Bruce Edwards, Kristen Pierce & Elena Cooper

Team “Fauquier Health PM&R (Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation)” consisting of speech therapist Elena Cooper and physical therapists Bruce Edwards, David Grossmann, and Kristen Pierce participated in the 3rd Annual BRATS Triathlon Event #2 on July 19, 2010 held at the Vint Hill Community. The triathlon was a charity benefit to support the Owen Lea Foundation which is dedicated to serving families with neuroblastoma. The therapists enjoyed the hot July morning swimming 300 meters, biking 12 miles, and running a 5K.

Dave Grossmann crosses the finish line.

Cycling is a repetitive activity that can result in injury. Our physical therapists at Fauquier Health Outpatient Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation department can provide you with the proper stretches, balance, and strengthening exercises to treat your cycling related injuries.

American Physical Therapy Association's tips for avoiding bike fit related injuries:

Postural Tips

· Change hand position on the handlebars frequently for upper body comfort.
· Keep a controlled but relaxed grip of the handlebars.
· When pedaling, your knee should be slightly bent at the bottom of the pedal stroke. Avoid rocking your hips while pedaling.

Common Bicycling Pains

· Anterior (Front) Knee Pain
Possible causes are having a saddle that is too low, pedaling at a low cadence (speed), using your quadriceps muscles too much in pedaling, misaligned bicycle cleat for those who use clipless pedals, and muscle imbalance in your legs (strong quadriceps and weak hamstrings).

· Neck Pain
Possible causes include poor handlebar or saddle position. A poorly placed handlebar might be too low, at too great a reach, or at too short a reach. A saddle with excessive downward tilt can be a source of neck pain.

· Lower Back Pain
Possible causes include inflexible hamstrings, low cadence, using your quadriceps muscles too much in pedaling, poor back strength, and too long or too-low handlebars.

· Hamstring Tendinitis
Possible causes are inflexible hamstrings, high saddle, misaligned bicycle cleat for those who use clipless pedals, and poor hamstring strength.

· Hand Numbness or Pain
Possible causes are short-reach handlebars, poorly placed brake levers, and a downward tilt of the saddle.

· Foot Numbness or Pain
Possible causes are using quadriceps muscles too much in pedaling, low cadence, faulty foot mechanics, and misaligned bicycle cleat for those who use clipless pedals.

· Ilio-Tibial Band Tendinitis
Possible causes are too-high saddle, leg length difference, and misaligned bicycle cleat for those who use clipless pedal.

For further information see http://www.apta.org/

At Fauquier Health Outpatient Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, our therapists treat not only cycling injuries, but all other types of orthopedic and sports related injures for all ages. If you feel you or someone you know may benefit from this service and would like to hear more, please call us at 540-316-2680. Or click on the button below to ask a question.

Specialized Physical Therapists can help with Post-Prostatectomy Incontinence

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According to Moul et al, the prevalence of stress urinary incontinence at 3 months after radical prostatectomy is 17 to 54 % and 5 to 38% at 6 months post surgery. A study by McCallum et al reported that gains in continence will occur up to 2 years, but major gains occur in the first 3 months. Physical therapists who specialize in pelvic floor physical therapy can help men accelerate improvement with continence post prostatectomy by providing individualized treatment plans and strengthening the pelvic floor muscles.

The pelvic floor muscles attach to the bottom of the pelvis forming a sling or hammock of muscle which support the internal organs. These muscles contract to help stop the flow of urine and gas and assist with normal sexual function.

Physical therapy can help you learn how to properly contract the pelvic floor muscles in order to increase their strength so they function normally. During your therapy, an individualized progressive exercise program for pelvic floor and core strengthening will be given. Education regarding healthy toilet habits, urinary urge control, and fluid intake will also be provided. Biofeedback training and electrical stimulation may be used to achieve better control of continence.

At Fauquier Health Outpatient Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, our pelvic physical therapy team has completed extensive training in pelvic physical therapy through the American Physical Therapy Association’s section on Women’s Health. Our therapists utilize a variety of techniques as well as education to ensure each patient’s needs are addressed. All pelvic floor treatments are conducted one-on–one in a private setting.
If you feel you may benefit from this service or would like to hear more, please call us at 540-316-2680. Or click on the button below to ask a question.

Helping People Communicate

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May is Better Speech & Hearing Month

Speech-language pathology services seek to optimize individuals' ability to communicate and swallow, thereby improving quality of life. Speech-Language Pathologists work with the full range of human communication and its disorders, improving quality of life by reducing impairments of body functions and structures, activity limitations, participation restrictions, and barriers created by various health conditions and/or environmental and personal factors. We evaluate, diagnose, and treat language, cognitive-communication and swallowing disorders in individuals of all ages, from infants to the elderly.

Health conditions and/or environmental and personal factors that may affect communication and swallowing might include: stroke, TIA, traumatic brain injury, developmental delays/disorders, cancer of the head, neck and throat, neurogenic disorders (i.e. Parkinson’s disease, Multiple Sclerosis, Huntington’s disease, Dementia, Cerebral Palsy), voice disorders, stuttering, auditory processing disorders, and Autism Spectrum Spectrum disorders.
Speech-language pathologists often work as part of a team, which may include teachers, physicians, audiologists, psychologists, social workers, rehabilitation counselors, and others. We serve individuals, families, and groups from diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds. Services are provided based on applying the best available research evidence, using expert clinical judgments, and considering clients' individual preferences and values.

The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA), founded in 1925, is the professional, scientific, and credentialing association for 140,000 members and affiliates who are speech-language pathologists, audiologists, and speech, language, and hearing scientists in the United States and internationally. ASHA is committed to ensuring that all people with speech, language, and hearing disorders receive services to help them communicate effectively. For more information, go to http://www.asha.org/.

At Fauquier Health, our ASHA and state certified Speech-Language Pathologists provide assessment, intervention, and management to a diverse clientele. Fauquier Health offers outpatient speech-language therapy services to adults in the Medical Office Building on the hospital campus:

• 253 Veteran's Drive, Warrenton, Virginia

We also provide services for children, in two locations:

• 493 Blackwell Road, Warrenton, Virginia
  
• 7915 Manassas Drive, Gainesville, Virginia

If you or someone you know would like to learn more about the benefits of speech-language therapy, or would like to make an appointment with one of our speech-language therapists, please call us at: 540-316-2680. Or click on the button below to submit an inquiry via email.

Patient Accolades

Our outpatient rehabilitation department prides itself on the many positive comments and outstanding scores we receive on our Press Ganey patient surveys. Some of our patients are kind enough to take the time to write a letter about their experience with us. The following is one of those letters. Kudos to Joan Wolf for providing exemplary care, and a big thank you to Mr. McCarthy for allowing us to share his thoughts here...

It was my great good fortune to be assigned Mrs. Wolf as my therapist during extensive therapy periods following surgeries for knee replacements in January and October of 2009.

That Mrs. Wolf proved to exceed my expectations in the professional performance of her duties as a therapist should perhaps be no surprise. However, it was as a concerned caregiver that she did surprise me. I came to Mrs. Wolf following my first surgery very depressed at ever achieving my recovery goals. She recognized the symptoms immediately and began a process of rebuilding my self-confidence so that in a short period she had us both working towards the goal of complete success in regaining mobility in that leg. Mrs. Wolf's careful attention to this aspect of recovery significantly reduced the therapy time needed when I had my second knee replacement in October.

In my experience, no other individual caregiver, in a long life rich with surgical experiences, has so embodied the very best in applied techniques as well as concern for the patient.

Thank you, and I am,
Very truly yours,

John W. McCarthy

Thank you, Mr. McCarthy, for your very kind words!

We welcome you to a discussion on "Other" Women's Health Issues

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Fauquier Health LIFE Center is pleased to offer you the first in a series of free health discussions, focusing on gynecological/urological conditions contributing to pelvic floor dysfunction including, but not limited to, incontinence and pelvic pain. This group will help you learn about and cope with symptoms that you may be too embarrassed to discuss with your doctors or friends.

At our first session, our guest speaker is a Doctor of Physical Therapy who specializes in women’s health issues at the Fauquier Health Outpatient Rehabilitation. She will be discussing how you may benefit from pelvic physical therapy to treat your symptoms. Also, a trained exercise physiologist will provide information on how an individualized exercise/stretching program, compatible with instructions from your doctor or physical therapist, can help reduce your pain or other symptoms. Both a morning and evening session will be offered to accommodate your needs.

Guest Speakers:
Kristen Pierce, PT, DPT, cert. MDT
LeAnn McCusker, director of the LIFE Center

Location:
The Fauquier Health LIFE Center
419 Holiday Court (Suite 200)
Warrenton, Virginia 20186

Dates:
Wednesday, February 3 , 10:00 am
Wednesday, February 24, 6:00 pm

To register for one of the sessions, please call the Life Center at 540-316-2640.

If you need any further information or have any questions, please contact Marilyn Caine at 540-349-9325 or click on the button below to send her an email:

We welcome Pam De Rivero, Pediatric Physical Therapist Assistant, to our Team!

I was born in Lima, Peru. As I was about to turn five my parents decided to come to live in the United States with the American dream of a better future. From then on we have lived in Northern Virginia. I have a younger brother who calls himself my little mannequin, because going through PTA school I would always practice movement patterns and stretching techniques on him.

I was lucky enough to learn very early on in my life that Pediatric Physical Therapy was what I wanted to do. Even though I searched other possibilities of other professions I would always come back to Physical Therapy for kids.

I enrolled in the Physical Therapist Assistant program at Northern Virginia Community College. It is an outstanding program with the best instructors who cheer their students on every step of the way. I had three clinical rotations: an Outpatient Orthopedics clinic, Skilled Nursing Facility, and last but not least my favorite, School Settings.

I have worked with a wonderful family for a year and a half helping them give therapy to their two gorgeous boys. They have grown so much in this short amount of time, not only physically but in their gross and fine motor skills, speech, and best of all playing skills. I have had the honor to see these changes during this time and I have also grown to love them as part of my own family.

I believe that ALL children should have fun and be able to play. And now beginning this new journey with Fauquier Health Outpatient Rehab Pediatrics I can’t wait to incorporate that into everyday therapy, making it into a game. I am eager to meet the children and their families, and to find out what they hope to accomplish through therapy. I am also eager to meet my team and co-workers who I will be working with side-by-side to accomplish those goals.

Fauquier Health is the only local facility to offer physical, occupational & speech therapies all at one convenient, child-friendly location. If you feel your child may benefit from rehabilitation services & have questions, please feel free to give us a call at 540-316-2680, or click on the button below to submit your inquiry via email.

Does your baby tilt and hold his head to one side?

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Your baby may have a condition that is known as torticollis. Torticollis is a term that describes an abnormal neck posture. Typically, the parents or physician observe that the baby prefers to tilt or turn his/her head and neck to one side. Evidence in the literature suggests that there may be over 80 differential diagnoses that may cause a torticollis posture. The first step to determine if your baby has torticollis is to bring up your concerns to your pediatrician so he can examine your baby and perform tests as indicated. Neck x-rays are sometimes advised to rule out any abnormality of the vertebrae.

How will I know if my baby has torticollis?

You will notice that your baby prefers to hold his/her head to one side and may have limited neck movement. Torticollis is usually diagnosed within the first 2-3 months of life by the pediatrician. Torticollis is also often associated with an asymmetrical head shape (positional plagiocephaly). This often occurs when babies sleep with their head always turned to one side.

How is torticollis treated?

Conservative treatment of torticollis typically includes passive muscle stretching exercises, active range of motion activities/strengthening exercises, positioning and handling techniques for postural correction, lateral head righting/postural control and developmental exercises. Evidence based outcome measures support manual stretching with good success rates reported from 61-85%.

Should my baby be examined by a physical therapist?

If your baby has been diagnosed with torticollis, you should seek an examination by a pediatric physical therapist as soon as possible. Torticollis limits the ability for a child to move their head freely to see, hear, and interact with his/her environment. Torticollis may also lead to delayed body awareness, weakness and difficulties with balance, and asymmetrical use of their arms and legs during their developmental stages resulting in favoring one side of the body. Physical therapists will perform a thorough neuromusculoskeletal examination of your baby and develop an appropriate program for your child that specifically fits his/her needs. They will check for other conditions that can occur with children who present with torticollis including plagiocephaly, hip dysplasia, and spine problems. They will discuss the results of the examination with you and provide education for a home activity program that includes not only stretching/range of motion exercises, but also information on massage techniques, positioning ideas, and strengthening exercises to prevent any asymmetry that may be occurring. The physical therapist will also observe the patient’s gross motor skills to assure that they are meeting their motor milestones.

How do I get started?
Most cases of torticollis respond very well to physical therapy intervention. Discuss your concerns with your pediatrician and obtain a prescription for physical therapy.

At Fauquier Health Outpatient Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, our pediatric physical therapy team has special training to treat not only torticollis, but all other congenital, orthopedic, and developmental disorders. We provide a child friendly environment with hours to accommodate school and parent work schedules.

If you feel your child may benefit from this service and would like to hear more, please call us at 540-316-2680. Or click on the button below to ask a question.

Like poetry to our ears!

At Fauquier Health we develop close relationships with our patients as we work together to help them achieve the goals most important to them. We answer their questions and address any concerns they may have during the journey to recovery. We depend on feedback from our clients to help us guide them to their maximum potential. Occasionally, we have a client who is particularly eloquent in expressing their feelings. Such is the case of Mr. Michaele Jones, who wrote the following poem...

This question, merits time and consideration,
So, I'd like to thank the whole organization.
I've had pleasurable contact with all I contest,
Starting with the warm up smiles at the front desk.

Thanks to the ones who broke me down bending things
Making me feel child like, ready to scream.
Shouting, back straight, bend here,
Providing security, eliminating fear.

Right now I'll concentrate on Linda the most,
Who's abuse is second to none on the east coast.
Quickly, I'll point out just a thing or two,
of the many helpful things you do.

You helped me, when all I felt was down.
The many days I wore a frown,
You gave me back my hands, that's true,
Though you worked a brother, till his knuckles turn blue.

You controlled the times I would over demand
You ruled with a smile, with a gentle hand.
At home, I'd do what you told me to do
Subconsciously plotting to get back at you.

It is hard to express my appreciation,
For your Drill Sergeant commitment, dedication.
Elbows straight, fingers too.
In my nightmares, you're saying, "I'm watching you."

At the end of the day, all I can do,
Is say, Thank you, Thank you and Thank you!
(No luck with the beer dispenser?)

Interjections:
Mr. Jones thought the only way we could improve our services would be to place a beer dispenser in the reception area!
Linda Wise is Mr. Jones's occupational therapist.

Thank you, Mr. Jones! We are proud and honored to serve you!

McKenzie Spine Program at Fauquier Health Outpatient Rehabilitation Services

Karrie Giger, PT, DPT, cert. MDT explains rationale

of the McKenzie method to Kevin Turney.

Back and neck pain are very common in the general population. The annual incidence of low back pain in the general adult population is 18.6%, and the total cost of low back pain exceeds $100 billion per year in the United States according to studies. Another study reports that about 1/3 of the population will experience neck pain during a six or twelve month period, and the lifetime prevalence of neck pain is 66.7%.

The McKenize Method, also known as Mechanical Diagnosis and Therapy® (MDT) is a unique method used all over the world for examining patients with back, neck, and extremity problems and pain. It is an approach that uses a philosophy of active patient involvement and education. The McKenzie method uses a unique examination that provides the patient with a mechanical diagnosis which drives an appropriate individualized treatment plan. The McKenzie method is not merely extension exercises. It is a comprehensive, well researched approach to the spine that when followed appropriately has been found to have very successful outcomes.

This method has been found to be cost and time effective because it does not rely on expensive tests and it promotes the body’s potential to heal itself through appropriate directional movements prescribed by your physical therapist. The emphasis on active patient involvement limits the number of visits needed to the clinic. Research studies have shown that the initial McKenzie assessment procedures to be as reliable as costly diagnostic imaging (ex. X-rays, MRI) to determine the source of the problem and quickly identify those who will respond to conservative mechanical therapy. The McKenzie method is a safe, reliable, and valid method when performed by appropriately trained physical therapists.

Fauquier Health Outpatient Rehabilitation Services is the only facility in the Piedmont area to have three certified MDT physical therapists. Karrie Giger, PT, DPT, cert. MDT, Bruce Edwards III, PT, cert. MDT, and Kristen Pierce, PT, DPT, cert, MDT were credentialed by the McKenzie Institute International in August 2007 and specialize in spine physical therapy. Certification includes extensive postgraduate courses on spine assessment and treatment with successful completion of an international credentialing examination. Our outpatient department also has 5 other physical therapists currently in the process of becoming MDT certified and have received extensive training in this method. More information regarding the McKenzie method can be found at http://www.mckenziemdt.org

If you feel you may benefit from our spine service, and would like to hear more, please call us at 540-316-2680. Or click on the button below to ask your therapist a question.

May is better Speech and Hearing Month

The Most Anticipated Moment


The most anticipated moment for a parent is the sound of a child's first words. But what if the words are delayed, jumbled, or never come at all? Speech and language problems can affect early learning and self-esteem. Give your child a chance by seeking proper treatment from a speech-language pathologist.


Reach Your Full Potential


As we strive to reach our full potential, speech and language problems can hold us back. To some it may be a delay in talking or difficulty swallowing. Others may be unable to speak clearly or comprehend because of a stroke or accident. Speech and language problems can affect anyone at any age. If you are concerned that a disorder is going untreated or are unable to find proper treatment, consult a speech-language pathologist.


Communication Disorders Do Not Discriminate

Millions of Americans have a communication or swallowing disorder. These disorders affect people of all ages, from all walks of life. For them, simple thoughts like "Thank you" and "I love you" may be impossible to convey. If you are concerned that a disorder is affecting your education, professional life, or personal relationships, consult a speech-language pathologist.

Communication for Life

Speech and language disorders can affect anyone at any age. Millions of infants, children and adults in America suffer from a communication or swallowing disorder. Whether it's a difficulty in swallowing or a disorder such as stuttering, delayed language or a voice problem, a person's ability to learn and interact with others can be affected. If you suspect you or a loved one may be experiencing a communication or swallowing disorder, consult a speech-language pathologist.




Questions? Click on the button below to ask a Speech-Language Pathologist.

If you would like to learn more about Speech-Language Pathology, visit the American Speech-Language Hearing Association website at www.asha.org

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Specialized Care for Pediatric Patients

Adults aren't the only ones who need rehabilitation therapy to maximize their physical, mental and social abilities. Some children and adolescents also need specialized services to build strength, achieve their functional potential and develop the skills they need at thome, at school and within their communities. Children may benefit from rehabilitation services if they have or are recovering from:

• Birth defects or birth injuries


• Neurological, musculoskeletal or rheumatological conditions


• Developmental delays


• Feeding problems


• Acute traumas


• Bone fractures and other orthopedic problems


• Accidents


• Injuries


• Burns


• Cancer


• Surgery


• Chronic diseases (such as sickle cell, heart or kidney diseases)
  

A Team Approach

Kids who need rehabilitation services receive care from a mulitdisciplinary team of specialists who are trained to handle the unique needs of pediatric patients. The team includes physical, occupational and speech therapists who evaluate and assess the child's functional limitations.

Rehabilitation specialists design individual treatment plans to help mazimize patients' independence and the quality of their lives. Team members use a variety of techniques and technologies that can help:

• Support patients' growth and development


• Prevent future complications and impairments


• Relieve pain


• Improve kids' cognitive abilities


• Improve strength, coordination, range of motion and fine motor skills


• Relax muscles


• Develop kids' self-care skills


• Enhance speech and language skills


• Teach kids' how to use wheelchairs, braces and other assistive devices
  

Short and Long Term Care

Some pediatric patients may need only short-term rehabilitation therapy to address certain acute injuries or issues. Rehabilitation, however, can play a major role in health care for kids with complex, lifelong conditions.

While children and adolescents undergoing therapy may be tackling difficult issues, rehabilitation professionals provide services in an age-appropriate way that keeps pediatric patients engaged. For example, therapists may use fun activities to help kids develop key coordination, motor and hand-eye skills that may improve their walking, feeding or handwriting skills. The gains children make during rehabilitation therapy often help boost their self-confidence and self-esteem, giving them a sense of accomplishment.

Developments in Pediatric Therapy

>>Kristine Trimble, Alicia Lutman and Heather Smith comprise the pediatric rehabilitation team at Fauquier Health. The pediatric office is located at 493 Blackwell Road in the Warrenton Professional Center in Warrenton, Virginia. Over the past few months, the rooms have been renovated and updated. New therapeutic tools have also been added, which the children see as "new toys".

Kristine Trimble, PT, DPT is the pediatric physical therapist who provides therapy for children with torticollis, gross motor delays, traumatic brain injuries, acquired brain injuries, cerebral palsy and dyspraxia. She also implements aquatic therapy.

Alicia Lutman, MOTR/L, ATC is the pediatric occupational therapist who works with children with fine motor delays, visual processing deficits, autism, developmental delays, traumatic brain injuries and handwriting difficulties.

Heather Smith, MS, CFY-SLP is the pediatric speech lauguage pathologist who works with children with receptive and expressive language delays, apraxia, feeding delays, autism, developmental delays, articulation/phonological processing disorders, and acquired and traumatic brain injuries.

Fauquier Health is the only local facility to offer physical, occupational and speech therapies all at one convenient, child-friendly location. If you need further information please call 540-316-2680. Or click on the button below to ask a question or request additional information. Your email will be answered within 24 business hours.

A great day for Margaret Blue!

Friday, April 10, 2009

March 12, 2009 was a proud day for Margaret Blue. She became a member of Marriott's "Quarter Century Club", marking 25 years of service as a chef. Margaret thoroughly enjoyed everyone she came in contact with during her years with Marriott. Despite a debilitating neurogenic problem that causes her to have decreased balance and weakness, this amazing woman has only missed one day of work in 25 years--because of a snowstorm!After a recent injury, Margaret came to our clinic for strengthening and to improve her walking. She has worked closely with her physical therapist, Bruce Edwards & our student from Shennandoah, Brooks Brady. Margaret credits them for helping her become strong enough to walk up to receive her 25 year service award, something she was not sure she would be able to do after her injury.Margaret has a beaming smile for everyone she meets. Her positive attitude is contagious, and the reason she has come so far. Congratulations Margaret, on your achievements!

If you would like to know more about our services, or have a general question regarding rehabilitation services, please call us at 540-316-2680, or click on the button below to submit an email inquiry.

April is Occupational Therapy Month

OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY HELPS INDIVIDUALS
LIVE LIFE TO ITS FULLEST

Occupational therapy enables people of all ages live life to its fullest by helping them promote health, prevent—or live better with—injury, illness, or disability. It is a practice deeply rooted in science and is evidence-based, meaning that the plan designed for each individual is supported by data, experience, and “best practices” that have been developed and proven over time.

Occupational therapists and occupational therapy assistants focus on “doing” whatever occupations or activities are meaningful to the individual. It is occupational therapy’s purpose to get beyond problems to the solutions that assure living life to its fullest. These solutions may be adaptations for how to do a task, changes to the surroundings, or helping individuals to alter their own behaviors.

When working with an occupational therapy practitioner, strategies and modifications are customized for each individual to resolve problems, improve function, and support everyday living activities. The goal is to maximize potential. Through these therapeutic approaches, occupational therapy helps individuals design their lives, develop needed skills, adjust their environments (e,g., home, school, or work) and build health-promoting habits and routines that will allow them to thrive.

By taking the full picture into account—a person’s psychological, physical, emotional, and social makeup as well as their environment—occupational therapy assists clients to do the following:

· Achieve goals
· Function at the highest possible level
· Concentrate on what matters most to them
· Maintain or rebuild their independence
· Participate in daily activities that they need or want to do.

Founded in 1917, the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) represents the interests and concerns of more than 140,000 occupational therapists, assistants and students nationwide. The Association educates the public and advances the profession of occupational therapy by providing resources, setting standards including accreditations and serving as an advocate to improve health care. Based in Bethesda, Md., AOTA’s major programs and activities are directed toward promoting the professional development of its members and assuring consumer access to quality services so patients can maximize their individual potential. For more information, go to http://www.aota.org/.


If you feel you or someone you know may benefit from occupational therapy services please call us at (540) 316-2680 to learn more. Or click on the button below to ask a question.

Physical Therapists offer help for Incontinence

Urinary incontinence, or the complaint of involuntary leakage of urine, is not just something that happens to older people. This condition can affect men and women of all ages. The National Association for Incontinence estimates that 25 million Americans experience urinary incontinence.

Stress Incontinence is a sudden involuntary loss of urine on effort or exertion. This may occur with activities such as exercising, sneezing, coughing or laughing. Stress incontinence usually results from weakness and lack of support in the muscles of the pelvic floor. Women with stress incontinence often have “under active” pelvic floor muscles. Causes may be pregnancy or childbirth, injury or trauma, surgery in the vagina or rectum, episiotomy (during childbirth), or lack of exercise or use.

Urge Incontinence is the loss of urine that occurs as soon as you get the urge to urinate. Women with urge incontinence often have weak and “over active” pelvic floor muscles.

Mixed Incontinence is involuntary loss of urine associated with urgency and also with exertion, effort, sneezing or coughing. Mixed incontinence can include any combination of the causes of stress and urge incontinence.

Many symptoms of urinary incontinence are caused by pelvic floor muscle weakness and dysfunction. Our specially trained pelvic floor physical therapists are the ideal healthcare providers to help you gain control over your symptoms. Our therapists use their specialized medical training to evaluate your problem and design an individualized treatment program to meet your specific needs.

Physical therapy can:

• Give you control over your bladder and your life


• Save money and embarrassment by allowing less use of pads and undergarments


• Reduce use of medications for incontinence


• Possibly prevent the need for surgery

Physical therapy treatment may include:

• Education on diet and nutrition to avoid food and beverages that may irritate the bladder


• Advice on how to change behaviors that make symptoms worse


• Techniques to increase awareness of the correct use of muscles that control urinary flow


• Exercises to strengthen the muscles of the pelvic floor


• Exercises to stretch and strengthen other important muscles to help you gain control


• Techniques to decrease urinary urge and frequency


• Biofeedback to help you re-train your muscles


• Electrical stimulation to improve awareness and strengthen muscles

You should be referred to a pelvic physical therapist if:

• You leak urine during normal daily activities


• You leak urine with sneezing, coughing, or laughing


• You have difficulty starting a urine stream


• You have trouble holding urine when you feel a strong urge to go


• You urinate frequently (more than every 3-4 hours during the day, up more than once to urinate at night)


• You have difficulty getting to the bathroom because of other problems such as pain or balance.
  
  At Fauquier Health Outpatient Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, our pelvic physical therapy team has completed extensive training in pelvic physical therapy through the American Physical Therapy Association. Our therapists use a variety of techniques as well as provide you with education to ensure your needs are addressed. All pelvic floor treatments are conducted confidentially with your therapist in a comfortable, private setting.
  
  If you feel you may benefit from this service and would like to hear more, please call us at 540-316-2680. Or click on the button below to ask a question.
  

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Do you suffer from dizziness?

You are not alone. Did you know that symptoms of dizziness are the third most frequent reason people over the age of 65 seek medical attention? Dizziness is the number one reason people over the age of 70 seek medical attention.

Fifty percent of individuals over the age of 65 who suffer from dizziness will develop a particular form of vertigo that can be alleviated with one simple physical therapy treatment. The most common form of vertigo is Benign Paroxsymal Positioning Vertigo (BPPV).

Symptoms include:

• Sudden onset
• Brief episodes of dizziness, typically lasting less than one minute
• A sense of imbalance or motion sensitivity brought on by changes in head position relative to gravity by activities such as:
  o Lying down
  o Rolling over in bed
  o Bending over
  o Looking up

BPPV is caused by tiny crystals being dislodged in the inner ear causing changes in the movement of lymph fluid, giving you the sensation you are losing your balance.

Fortunately, this problem is easily detected and can be treated with a few different repositioning techniques to move the crystals through the ear canal and “dump” them into an area that no longer causes vertigo. This treatment is usually very successful, with resolution of all symptoms within 1 or 2 therapy sessions.

A Vestibular Rehabilitation course was recently held at Fauquier Hospital and was attended by some of our therapists. They received training in these vestibular techniques and are ready to help alleviate your dizziness. If you feel you may benefit from this service and would like to hear more, please call us at 540-316-2680. Or click on the button below to ask a question.

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Congratulations Andrew!

Outpatient Rehabilitation Services is proud to announce that Andrew Mazur, physical therapist, has received certification from the Aquatic & Rehabilitation Institute. Andrew provides outpatient aquatic physical therapy for adults at our pool in the Fauquier Health Rehabilitation & Nursing Center. Andrew’s patients enjoy the skilled, individualized care he provides that helps them maximize their range of motion, strength & function after an injury, illness or surgery.

We are the only clinic in the area to offer aquatic physical therapy. Our pool is kept at an inviting 92 degrees, optimal for therapeutic exercise.

We also offer aquatic physical therapy for our pediatric patients, provided by Kristine Trimble, our pediatric physical therapist.
If you or someone you know may benefit from aquatic physical therapy, please call us at (540) 316-2680 for further information. We look forward to hearing from you!

Have questions?