On the sunny morning of June 29, the town of Clear Lake came alive with the vibrant energy of the FastBreak 5K, hosted by Clear Lake Physical Therapy and Rehab Specialists (CLPTRS). This annual event, which has become a staple in the community since 2012, brought together fitness enthusiasts, families, and local supporters for a day filled with fun, laughter, and a shared commitment to health.

The festivities began with the eagerly anticipated Kids Fun Run, generously sponsored by Northern Roots Family Spinal Care. The young participants, full of energy and excitement, set the tone for the day. Watching the kids sprint across the starting line, cheered on by family and friends, was a heartwarming reminder of the importance of community and healthy living.

With the Kids Fun Run wrapped up, attention shifted to the main event. Thirty-eight individuals, ranging from avid runners to casual walkers, gathered at the starting line, each participant ready to contribute to the spirit of the event. The race showcased not only the competitive spirit of the runners but also the camaraderie that defines Clear Lake.

Race Results

Congratulations to the top finishers in each category:

Male 19 & Under

1. Ian Findlay
2. Elijah Perry
3. Will Brantner

Female 19 & Under

1. Jordyn Perry
2. Jade Juedes

Male 20-44

1. William Laursen
2. Ben Traynor
3. Andrew Riess

Female 20-44

1. Alexandra Simeon
2. Josey Wood
3. Brittany Roiger

Male 45+

1. Mike Findlay
2. Mark Monson
3. Ralph LaDue

Female 45+

1. Kari Best
2. Elizabeth Riess
3. Andrea Jilek

The incredible support of our volunteers and sponsors made the success of the FastBreak 5K possible. A heartfelt thank you goes out to our dedicated volunteers: CLPTRS staff, Sam Larson, Carrie Blanchard, Bailey Blanchard, and the Clear Lake Student Athletes, whose efforts helped the event run smoothly.

A special mention goes to our Platinum Sponsors: Culligan, Grosskreutz Insurance, Specialty Coatings Systems, and T. J. Freight. Their generous contributions helped to make the event a success. CLPTRS also extends our gratitude to our Gold Sponsors: Clear Lake Clinic, CR Convenience, DC Delivery-Courier Service, Irma’s Place, Midway Bar, Nextgen Broadband (Clear Lake Telephone), Overby Financial Services, Pillar Bank, Sawmill Pizza & Brew Shed, and The Plumber. Additionally, we thank CB Styles and True Value for their support.

Thanks to the enthusiastic participation of our runners and the generous support of our sponsors, we raised over $2,200. These funds will go a long way in supporting Clear Lake student athletes!

The FastBreak 5K was more than just a race; it was a celebration of community spirit and a testament to the collective commitment to health and fitness in Clear Lake. As CLPTRS looks forward to next year’s event, we are excited to build on this success and continue fostering a strong, active, and connected community. Thank you to everyone who participated, supported, and cheered us on. Here’s to many more years of fitness, fun, and community togetherness!

Clear Lake Physical Therapy and Rehab Specialists (CLPTRS) is excited to announce the 11th anniversary of the FastBreak 5K, taking place on June 29 during Clear Lake Heritage Days weekend. This community-wide event is a fantastic way to support our local athletes, as all funds raised will be donated to the Clear Lake Athletic Department.

The day kicks off at 8:00 am with a Fun Run/Walk for kids, sponsored by Northern Roots Family Spinal Care. This event is free and a perfect way for the youngest members of our community to get involved.

Immediately following the kids’ run, the FastBreak 5K will begin at Clear Lake High School. This timed event features a smooth, flat, out-and-back course that winds through town. Whether you’re an avid runner or prefer a leisurely walk, the FastBreak 5K welcomes participants of all ages and fitness levels. We have participants who have trained for this run, and we have participants who leisurely walk with friends or push a stroller. We encourage all to join us!

We are always in need of volunteers to help make this event a success. If you’re interested in volunteering, please contact CLPTRS at 715-263-4103.

A big thanks to our Gold Sponsors: Clear Lake Clinic, DC Delivery – Courier Service, Midway Bar, Pillar Bank, Nextgen Broadband, Irma’s Place, Sawmill Pizza and Brew Shed, Overby Financial Services, CR Convenience, and The Plumber. We would also like to thank our Platinum Sponsors: Culligan Water of Rice Lake, Grosskreutz Insurance, Specialty Coating Systems, and T.J. Freight. We couldn’t hold this event without you.

To register, please go to our Facebook page, Clear Lake Physical Therapy & Rehab Specialists, or stop at any of our office locations in Clear Lake, Turtle Lake, Amery, or Prairie Farm. You can register on race day as a walk-up, but please note that t-shirts will be available on a first-come, first-served basis and we cannot guarantee their availability.

There are many benefits of participating in a 5K:

• Get a health boost. Running or walking a 5K can improve your cardiovascular health, strengthen muscles, and boost your overall fitness.
• Experience community spirit. Join friends, family, and neighbors in a fun, supportive environment. Feel the camaraderie and make new connections!
• Hit a goal. Training for a 5K helps you set and achieve personal fitness goals. It’s a perfect milestone for beginners and seasoned athletes alike.
• Need some stress relief? Exercise is a fantastic way to reduce stress and boost mental well-being. Enjoy the endorphin rush and clear your mind!
• Support a cause. Many 5Ks, like the FastBreak 5K,  support local charities and community projects. Your participation can make a positive impact.

Come out, have fun, meet some new people, and support a great cause! We look forward to seeing you there.

Spring is at our front door here in Western Wisconsin. At Physical Therapy and Rehab Specialists (PTRS), we are embracing the opportunity to step outside and engage in various outdoor activities. From gardening to yard clean-up, from leisurely walks to invigorating jogs, Spring offers ample opportunities to bask in the rejuvenating warmth of the sun. However, along with the joys of springtime come the occasional aches and pains resulting from weekend grunt work or overexertion. Fortunately, there’s a quick and effective solution: physical therapy.

In the midst of planting flowers or raking leaves, it’s not uncommon to experience discomfort or minor injuries. These ailments can range from muscle strains to joint pain, hindering mobility and dampening the enjoyment of outdoor activities. However, the misconception that one must first seek a doctor’s referral before starting physical therapy often delays the path to recovery. The truth is, you can take proactive steps to address your pain by seeking direct access to PTRS.

At PTRS, we understand the urgency of addressing discomfort and restoring functionality. That’s why we offer evaluations without needing a doctor’s referral. By bypassing unnecessary delays, you can promptly begin your journey toward healing. Our skilled therapists specialize in diagnosing and treating a wide range of musculoskeletal issues, devising personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s unique needs.

Upon evaluation, our patients receive a comprehensive assessment of their condition, identifying the underlying causes of their discomfort. Whether it’s a strained back from lifting heavy bags of mulch or knee pain from excessive kneeling during gardening, our therapists use therapeutic techniques to alleviate pain and promote healing. From targeted stretches and strengthening exercises to manual therapy and modalities such as heat or cold therapy, we can help expedite recovery.

Our goal extends beyond mere symptom management; we empower patients with the knowledge and tools they need to prevent future injuries and maintain optimal wellness. Through education on proper body mechanics, ergonomic principles, and home exercise programs, individuals learn to navigate physical activities safely and effectively, minimizing the risk of re-injury.

Spring is also when many get outside to run or jog for exercise, training for upcoming races. Remember, the annual 5K Fastbreak will take place during Clear Lake Heritage Days in June. Please follow our Facebook page as more details become available soon. Search for ‘Clear Lake Physical Therapy and Rehab Specialists’ on Facebook and click on the ‘Like’ button.

So, if springtime activities leave you with aches and pains, don’t wait for a doctor’s appointment to seek relief. Take advantage of direct access to PTRS at one of our four offices and kick-start your journey to recovery. We serve those in and around Amery, Clear Lake, Prairie Farm, and Turtle Lake. Schedule your evaluation today and let us help you make the most of this beautiful time of year. 

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.