Author Archives: Emily Jones

Even though physical therapy focuses on the physical state of a patient, it can also act as an emotional relief for some patients. Our patient with SMA, Michael, is not able to get out of his house very much during the week, as he works from home and requires a…

During physical therapy, there are many different techniques that can be utilized to maximize the patient’s care. Some of these can include different manual techniques such as soft tissue massage, edema reduction massage, and manual stretching to increase the comfort and functional mobility of the patient. As we have previously…

Balance is typically a part of everyone’s treatment plan during physical therapy. Whether you have back pain or ankle pain, improving your balance carries over to an increase in functional mobility that will in turn improve your functional strength and increase your safety, typically assisting to improve the ailment you…

In previous articles, we have discussed different techniques for manual stretching to improve functional mobility and range of motion for Michael, my patient with SMA. We have discussed the importance of maintaining and increasing range of motion in joints such as ankles, knees, hips, elbow, hand, and cervical spine. These…

As we’ve discussed in previous articles, most patients with SMA sit in a wheelchair all day, therefore increasing the likelihood of experiencing increased swelling in their feet and ankles. For able-bodied individuals, when they walk, their legs are in a gravity dependent position, and there is a natural…

As we have previously discussed in earlier articles, wheelchairs play a main role in the daily lives of many patients with SMA. Over the past ten years, wheelchairs have changed for the better, and now have many customizable options available that can very much benefit the patient. Things such as…

Before meeting Michael, my patient with SMA, I had a lack in knowledge of what SMA really was, and what kind of goals were realistic to set for him to meet. I had no idea what my expectations should be regarding his progress and how to meet those expectations. I…

When working with a patient with SMA, you will most likely find that their sitting balance is not optimal while sitting unsupported, due to a lack of core strength. While every patient has different strengths and weaknesses, as well as abilities and disabilities, it is important to maximize their comfort…

With the pandemic occurring around us, there have been many changes for everyone in everyday life. Physical Therapy is an essential medical practice and has stayed open during this pandemic, but there have been changes made to protect us and our patients. We have patients, such as Michael, our patient…

In physical therapy, one main focus for us is to ensure patients improve on their balance, especially if the reason for their visit is secondary to an injury from a fall. With patients that spend the majority of their time in a wheelchair, we still want to focus a lot…