April marks Parkinson’s Awareness Month and Physical Therapy and Rehab Specialists (PTRS) would like to shed light on the early signs of Parkinson’s and the vital role our services play in managing its symptoms and improving the quality of life for those diagnosed.

Symptoms of Parkinson’s disease often start subtly, and people may not notice them or attribute them to other causes. It is a progressive neurological disorder that affects millions worldwide. While the disease primarily affects movement, early signs can vary from person to person and may include:

1. Tremors: Involuntary shaking, usually starting in the hands, fingers, or limbs at rest.
2. Bradykinesia: Slowed movement, making simple tasks such as walking or getting out of a chair more challenging.
3. Muscle Rigidity: Stiffness and inflexibility in the limbs or trunk, causing discomfort and difficulty with movement.
4. Postural Instability: Impaired balance and coordination, leading to an increased risk of falls.
5. Changes in Speech and Writing: Softening of voice, slurred speech, or handwriting changes.

Physical therapy is an essential component of the comprehensive care approach for individuals living with Parkinson’s disease. At PTRS, we work closely with patients to develop personalized treatment plans tailored to their unique needs and goals. Working with our physical therapists at PTRS has many benefits.

1. Improving Mobility and Functionality: We employ a variety of techniques, including exercise programs and mobility training, to enhance strength, flexibility, and coordination. By targeting specific movement impairments, we help individuals regain independence in daily activities, such as walking, dressing, and household chores.
2. Addressing Balance and Fall Prevention: Parkinson’s disease often compromises balance and increases the risk of falls, which can have serious consequences. We use balance exercises, gait training, and fall prevention strategies to reduce the risk of falls and enhance safety.
3. Managing Symptoms: While Parkinson’s disease is incurable, physical therapy can help manage its symptoms effectively. Therapeutic interventions such as stretching, manual therapy, and relaxation techniques can alleviate muscle stiffness, pain, and discomfort, improving overall comfort and quality of life.
4. Supporting Psychological Well-Being: Living with Parkinson’s disease can take a toll on mental health, leading to anxiety, depression, and decreased self-esteem. Our physical therapists can offer emotional support and encouragement, creating a supportive environment where individuals feel understood, valued, and motivated to achieve their goals.

Through early detection and the unwavering support of healthcare professionals, caregivers, and communities, we can continue to make strides in improving the lives of those living with Parkinson’s. Physical therapy can be quite beneficial, offering personalized care, empowerment, and a path to a fulfilling life despite the challenges posed by this complex condition.

Smart companies know that it’s important to take care of their workers. When workers get injured on the job, it becomes a major concern. That’s where Clear Lake Physical Therapy and Rehab Specialists (CLPTRS) comes in with a special program to help prevent injuries and make workplaces safer.

The foundation of CLPTRS’s injury prevention program lies in the education of employees on proper body mechanics and early symptom recognition. By educating on safe practices, such as the correct way to lift heavy objects, the program ensures workers are equipped with the skills needed to perform tasks without jeopardizing their well-being. 

A standout feature of CLPTRS’s injury prevention arsenal is the early intervention symptom recognition program, designed to identify and address potential issues before they escalate. By intervening at the early stages of discomfort or tissue stress, companies can minimize the severity of health issues, fostering a culture of preventative care rather than reactive measures.

Another critical component program is the ergonomic assessment service. In an industrial setting, where employees may spend long hours at desks, operate machinery, or work on assembly lines, proper ergonomics is crucial. The program assesses workstations, emphasizing the importance of sitting with good posture, maintaining appropriate positions when standing at machines, and moving efficiently on assembly lines. Good ergonomics significantly reduce the likelihood of workplace injuries.

We also provide post-offer pre-employment and return-to-work strategies, incorporating functional testing to accurately determine an employee’s readiness to start a new job or resume their duties and estimating a realistic timeframe for their return. We also offer work conditioning programs, where we customize rehabilitation efforts to match the specific demands of the job, guaranteeing a smooth transition back into the workforce.

At CLPTRS, we understand the financial toll that workers’ compensation costs can take on companies. Our main goal is to help businesses save money by preventing injuries and helping injured workers get back to their jobs safely.

By offering a holistic approach to industrial injury prevention, CLPTRS addresses all aspects of a company’s needs. The array of services provided includes on-site safety and injury prevention initiatives, health and wellness seminars tailored for employees, customized stretching programs, on-location ergonomic assessments, post-offer pre-employment testing, and drug testing. This comprehensive suite of offerings underscores our commitment to creating a safer and healthier work environment for employees.

February is not just about roses and chocolates; it’s also a time to reflect on matters of the heart, and not just in a romantic sense. February is Heart Health Month, a dedicated time to raise awareness about cardiovascular well-being. While many associate heart health with diet and exercise, the role of physical therapy in maintaining a healthy heart is often overlooked. Clear Lake Physical Therapy and Rehab Specialists (CLPTRS) can help you with your heart health, no matter your age.  Children are not immune to heart health concerns, especially in today’s sedentary society. Physical therapy at CLPTRS can play a pivotal role in instilling healthy habits from a young age. Therapists can engage children in age-appropriate activities that promote cardiovascular  fitness, such as fun games, sports, and exercises that enhance coordination and motor skills.  And our therapists work with young athletes recovering from sports injuries, helping them get back to peak performance to keep heart healthy.

As young adults embark on their professional and personal journeys, maintaining heart health becomes increasingly important. Physical therapy can offer targeted interventions for this age group, focusing on stress management and cardiovascular fitness. Incorporating aerobic exercises, strength training, and flexibility routines can contribute to a robust cardiovascular system. Our physical therapists can provide guidance on posture and ergonomics, crucial elements in preventing heart-related issues often exacerbated by a sedentary lifestyle or poor work habits.

The middle years of life often bring about increased responsibilities and stress, which can take a toll on heart health. Physical therapy becomes a valuable ally during this stage, addressing not only existing cardiovascular concerns but also preventive measures. PTs at CLPTRS can design personalized exercise programs to manage weight, reduce stress, and improve overall heart function.

As the body ages, the cardiovascular system faces new challenges. Physical therapy is a cornerstone of maintaining heart health for the elderly. Tailored exercise programs help improve  circulation, manage blood pressure, and enhance overall cardiovascular function. Our physical therapists can address mobility issues and balance, reducing the risk of falls and related cardiovascular complications. Through a combination of targeted exercises and education, physical therapy empowers the elderly to lead an active lifestyle, reducing the risk of heart-related diseases that often accompany aging.

February’s Heart Health Month serves as a timely reminder that cardiovascular well-being is a lifelong journey. Physical therapy is a versatile and effective tool at every stage of life and we would love to serve you at CLPTRS. From fostering healthy habits in children to providing essential support for the elderly, physical therapy plays a crucial role in promoting heart health for all ages. So, this February, let’s not just focus on heart-shaped chocolates but also on the heart-shaped muscle that keeps us ticking – and how physical therapy can be the key to keeping it healthy and strong.

Our motto at Clear Lake Physical Therapy and Rehab Specialists (CLPTRS) is “Restoring Human Performance.” Everything we do centers on that goal. Sports injuries, work injuries, recovering from an accident, and post-op therapy are all reasons for receiving physical therapy. But what if you have day-to-day aches and pains that just won’t relent?

Dry needling is a service we offer at our Turtle Lake location. Tessa Traynor, DPT, is CLPTRS’s dry needling expert. And it can be a remarkably effective way to relieve pain. But what is it? How does it work? Let us tell you!

Dry needling is a well-researched technique to relieve pain and muscle tension. It involves a thin filiform needle. The needle penetrates the skin and stimulates underlying myofascial trigger points and muscular and connective tissues.

Sometimes when people hear ‘dry needling’ they think ‘acupuncture.’ While dry needling uses the same needles as acupuncture, the primary difference lies in their philosophies. Acupuncture, rooted in traditional Chinese medicine, promotes energy flow. Dry needling zeroes in on trigger points within muscles, akin to ‘muscle knots.’ Tessa emphasizes that dry needling also promotes increased blood flow to the targeted tissue, expediting the healing process.

So how does dry needling benefit patients? Tessa explains, “Dry needling benefits patients by targeting trigger points within muscles that cause increased pain.” By reducing tension in the muscles and triggering the inflammatory process, dry needling facilitates healing by promoting blood flow and delivering essential nutrients to the affected areas. The result is akin to a deep tissue massage, but with a quicker and more effective process.

People seek dry needling primarily for pain relief, especially when it originates from muscular sources. Tessa notes that she commonly treats conditions such as tennis elbow, neck pain targeting the upper trapezius muscle, low back pain, and hip pain.

Tessa’s interest in dry needling grew during her education at UW-La Crosse, where the technique was integrated into her training. “I became interested after feeling the effects on myself,” she shares. The personal experience of tension relief fueled her desire to provide the same relief to her future patients. Tessa began practicing dry needling in August 2023. Her joy in providing this service is evident in the positive responses from patients. “Most of my patients respond well after a few sessions,” she notes.

With a foundation in Western medicine principles, Tessa’s expertise in dry needling offers patients a path to faster and more effective relief, unlocking the body’s innate healing capabilities. If you would like to know more about dry needling and what it might do for your chronic pain, we encourage you to call our Turtle Lake office at 715-986-4103.

Physical therapy isn’t just about helping people recover from injuries or rehab after surgery; it’s also a powerful force driving economic growth. When someone has surgery, is injured, or faces chronic health issues, physical therapy steps in not only to heal but also to boost the economy. Let’s explore how physical therapy supports individuals and communities, making a significant impact on our lives and our towns.

At Clear Lake Physical Therapy and Rehab Specialists (CLPTRS) we contribute to both individual lives and the prosperity of the communities of Amery, Clear Lake, Prairie Farm, and Turtle Lake, as well as the communities surrounding our four clinics. We do this through fueling the economy, reducing long-term healthcare costs, promoting community well-being, and serving student athletes and athletic programs.

One of the essential roles of physical therapy is in the workplace. Imagine if someone hurts their back and can’t work. CLPTRS physical therapists help our patients get better quicker, ensuring employees can return to their jobs faster. When people can work efficiently, businesses do better, leading to more productivity. This increased productivity means more money flowing into the economy, benefiting everyone.

Physical therapy also significantly reduces long-term healthcare costs. By treating issues early on, physical therapists prevent health problems from getting worse. When problems escalate, they often require expensive surgeries or long hospital stays. Our therapists at CLPTRS help stop these issues from becoming major, costly concerns. This not only saves individuals from hefty medical bills, but also reduces the burden on the entire healthcare system.

But physical therapy doesn’t stop at individuals; it positively affects entire communities. With clinics in Amery, Clear Lake, Prairie Farm, and Turtle Lake, we serve these towns and surrounding communities. By focusing on prevention and helping people recover, physical therapy creates healthier neighborhoods. When people in a community are healthier, they don’t need to visit the doctor or the hospital as often. This means medical resources can be used for more critical situations. It also creates a ripple effect – healthier people can work better, take care of their families, and contribute positively to society.

Over the years, we have hosted the annual FastBreak 5k, raising thousands of dollars for Clear Lake High School Athletics. The funds we have raised, while promoting community wellness, have eased the school district’s budget. This has afforded the district more equipment, safety, and transportation that benefit student athletes.

With more than a dozen employees, CLPTRS is proud to create jobs for our community. Skilled physical therapists and support staff live in and around the four towns that are home to our clinics. CLPTRS is part of our local economic engine, driving growth and prosperity.

Physical therapy is a crucial aspect of healthcare that often gets clouded by misconceptions and myths. These misunderstandings can keep people from seeking the help they need, resulting in prolonged pain, decreased mobility, and missed opportunities for recovery.

At Clear Lake Physical Therapy and Rehab Specialists (CLPTRS) we like to serve our past, current, and future patients by providing correct information. We believe the more educated you are about what physical therapy can do for you, the better decisions you can make when it comes to your health and well-being.

Let’s look at some of the most common myths about physical therapy and shed light on the vital role it plays in improving the lives of countless individuals.

Myth 1: You need a doctor’s referral for physical therapy!

While many people assume they must see a doctor before consulting a physical therapist, this isn’t the case. In Wisconsin, you can seek the services of a physical therapist without a doctor’s referral. And if you do see a doctor, you do not need to use the physical therapy services they are affiliated with or suggest. You are always free to choose your physical therapist.

Myth 2: Physical therapy is painful!

Some individuals may shy away from physical therapy because they fear it will be painful. Physical therapists are highly trained professionals who use a variety of techniques and exercises tailored to your needs and comfort level. The goal is to alleviate pain, restore function, and improve your quality of life, not to cause additional discomfort.

Myth 3: Physical therapy is only for post-surgery recovery!

Physical therapy is not exclusively for post-surgery recovery. While it plays a crucial role in helping individuals recuperate after surgical procedures, it is equally effective in managing and preventing a wide range of non-surgical conditions. From chronic pain management to injury, physical therapy offers comprehensive care for various health issues.

Myth 4: Physical therapy is only for athletes!

Contrary to popular belief, physical therapy is not just for elite athletes recovering from sports injuries. While athletes can benefit greatly from PT, we are a versatile healthcare profession that caters to people of all ages and activity levels. Whether you’re an office worker with back pain or a senior citizen looking to maintain independence, physical therapy can help you.

Whether you’re someone with an upcoming surgery, tired of nursing an old joint injury, or a looking to safely go about your daily life, physical therapy can be a key part of your healthcare journey. Don’t let misconceptions hold you back from the incredible benefits that physical therapy can offer.

Even though the calendar says it’s August and summer is winding down, we still have a long time before cold weather settles into Western Wisconsin. Until it’s time to pull out the winter boots, many people continue to wear flip-flops and sandals.

We all love the feeling of freedom that flip-flops and sandals offer during the warm months. But did you know the wrong choice of shoes can lead to foot pain and discomfort? Fear not, though, as physical therapy from Clear Lake Physical Therapy and Rehab Specialists (CLPTRS) might hold the key to finding relief and making the most of these last few warm weeks.

How do flip-flops affect our bodies? As we walk, our feet naturally help distribute impact and maintain our balance. However, flip-flops offer minimal support, throwing off our body’s natural alignment. Over time, this can lead to stress and strain on various parts of our feet, legs, and back. Flip-flops tend to have flat, thin soles and lack arch support. Which can lead to plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, knee pain, and back pain. But don’t despair as physical therapy has proven to be an effective remedy.

Let’s look at how physical therapy at CLPTRS can come to the rescue and help ease the pain caused by these flimsy summer fashion staples.

Our physical therapists are well-versed in designing exercises that target specific muscles affected by flip-flop use. These exercises help strengthen the foot, ankle, and leg muscles, providing the support needed to combat the strain from wearing sandals.

We can also teach patients stretching exercises that promote flexibility in calf muscles and the plantar fascia. This reduces the risk of injuries caused by insufficient footwear.

One of the greatest benefits of physical therapy is the personalized approach. Our skilled therapists can conduct a biomechanical analysis of your walking and standing patterns, identifying any issues. By understanding your unique mechanics, we can tailor a treatment plan that targets your specific needs.

While we adore the ease and style of these summer icons, flip-flops can bring unwanted pain and discomfort. Thankfully, physical therapy offers a holistic approach to counter the negative effects of wearing them too much.

Remember, it’s essential to listen to your body. So, if you’re experiencing pain, whether it’s from your choice of footwear or something else, please call CLPTRS to schedule a consultation. You do not need a doctor’s recommendation or referral to see us. The phone number of our Clear Lake location is 715-263-4103. If you call and live closer to one of our other locations, we would be happy to help you schedule an appointment at one of our clinics in Amery, Turtle Lake, or Prairie Farm.