Prevent Sports Injuries

Playing sports is a lot of fun. Getting hurt is not. Here are some key points to remember so you can stay in the game.

• Warm up:  Performed pre-exercise, this can include light cardiovascular activity (such as brisk walking) to raise your heart rate, and active warm up with stretches or activities similar to your sport.

·         Cool down:  Performed following exercise, this should include static stretching to muscles used during the sporting activity. Static stretching involves stretching while the body is at rest, by stretching to a point of tension and holding that stretch for a few seconds to a few minutes.

• Stretching:  Concentrate on all muscle groups in the upper body, lower body, and core.
• Core Strengthening Program:  General or tailored to your sport, including balance activities.
• Cardiovascular Exercise: 30-60 minutes per day  
• Footwear: Select shoes appropriate to your sport that provide support and shock absorption.
• Avoid Overtraining: When competing, begin training far enough ahead of time to work up to your target.  Progression into an exercise program too quickly can lead to injury.
   

Consult with a personal trainer, athletic trainer or physical therapist for exercise suggestions specific to your sport. 

Rehabilitation Institute of Michigan patient writes inspiring autobiography about life in a wheelchair

DMC Rehabilitation Institute of Michigan (RIM) patient, Sharina Jones, will be at RIM Thursday, June 27 from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm, signing copies of her new self-published autobiography, Life of a Push Goddess.

Life of a Push Goddess is the story of one disabled woman's push through discrimination to prove that not all goddesses are alike. Sharina’s idyllic life turns upside down at age five when she’s shot. Paralyzed from the waist down, she refuses to be confined by a wheelchair. When her father dies and her family falls apart, Sharina’s eating disorder rages out of control and exacts a dangerous toll on her body and self-esteem. Will she conquer her demons and be reunited with the man who loves her as she is?

Through the cruel taunts of classmates to cheerleader tryouts to winning the title of Ms. Wheelchair Michigan 2011, Jones’ story is a roller coaster of joy, shock, grief, anger, laughter and expectation. Jones doesn’t claim to be an expert on self-esteem issues or ask for sympathy in her 144-page book. Instead, she offers a look at life from a wheelchair – and how that life is just as hilarious, heartbreaking and hopeful as one walked on two feet. She touches on issues such as discrimination against the disabled and more with brutal honesty and easy humor.

Sharina Jones is a former Ms. Wheelchair Michigan and the founder and president of Think Beyond the Chair, a non-profit agency which provides social activities, events, support, education and advocacy for people with disabilities. Life of a Push Goddess is her first book.

Life of a Push Goddess is available at Amazon, Kindle and Lulu.

DMC Rehabilitation Institute of Michigan recognized for nursing excellence by Magnet

The American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) has awarded DMC Rehabilitation Institute of Michigan (RIM) Magnet® designation for excellence in nursing. Magnet® designation is one of the highest distinctions a hospital can receive, less than 7 percent of hospitals in the U.S. have achieved Magnet® status. RIM is the only rehabilitation hospital in Michigan and one of only three rehab hospitals in the U.S. to receive the Magnet® designation. RIM joins the DMC’s Detroit Receiving Hospital and Huron Valley-Sinai Hospital in achieving this honor.

A jubilant cheer resonated throughout the hospital today, as a packed auditorium of RIM staff received a surprise phone call from Pat Reid Ponte, DNSc RN NEA-BC FAAN, Chair of the Commission for the Magnet Recognition Program®, who delivered the good news.

Magnet® status is bestowed only to hospitals that exceed professional standards in nursing practice, leadership, education and research, and are able to document them. Research shows there are clear benefits to hospitals that achieve Magnet® status and to the communities they serve including consumer confidence, recruitment and retention, and maintaining positive patient outcomes.

“This momentous achievement only confirms what we have always known, that RIM’s nurses are among the best in the country. This is great news for RIM, the community and our patients who truly benefit from the professionalism, care and dedication our nurses provide every day,” said Bill Restum, PhD, president, RIM.

“RIM’s nursing staff has met the highest standards of excellence to receive Magnet status designation.  We are recognized for providing the very best in nursing practice and leadership, said Julia M. Libcke MSN, CRRN. Vice President, Patient Care Services, RIM. “I am incredibly proud of our rehabilitation nursing staff and the entire RIM family.   Today we celebrate our journey and the amazing difference we make each day in the lives of our patients and families,” she added.

RIM began their rigorous Magnet® journey in 2008. After submitting 116 sources of evidence compiled to verify the nursing staff's excellence in the 5 Model Components of Magnet®, representatives from the ANCC conducted a two-day, multi-faceted site visit to RIM in March 2013. Three Magnet® Appraisers observed nursing practice and performance, and spoke to nurses, physicians, board members and community stakeholders during the site visit.  

Hand therapy puts world back at patient’s finger tips

“I first thought my injury was no big deal. A few stitches and I’d be on my way. Wow, was I wrong.  It’s amazing how something seemingly so small has made such a big impact on my life.”

It was Nov. 30, 2013 and Kathleen Lowry was making a smoothie in what she calls her “ninja blade blender.  As she was pouring it into a cup, the blade came tumbling out.  Instead of letting it fall to the floor, she tried to catch it, slicing the tip of her right index finger.

As a nurse anesthetist at the Sinai-Grace Berry Surgery Center, she is familiar enough with medical situations to know this cut needed more than a band aid.  She headed to a nearby ER where a medical student said she was lucky that she didn’t cut her tendon, stitched her up and sent her home.

At first she thought she was healing well, but still unable to bend the tip of her finger a week and a half later, she knew the accident was much more serious.  She went to see a hand surgeon who said her tendon had been severed and it had probably retracted into her palm. Surgery was a must. Her doctor wasn’t available but her coworkers recommended DMC hand surgeon Dr. Brian Najarian.

“When I called Dr. Najarian’s office, they got me in immediately.  Dr. Najarian and his whole staff were so reassuring and really put me at ease.  He was also very thorough in explaining everything.”

Two weeks after her accident, Kathleen had surgery.  Dr. Najarian was able to fish the tendon out of her palm and reattach it.  He gave her a 50/50 chance that her fingertip nerves would regenerate and he was optimistic that she would regain functional use of her finger.  He sent her to DMC Rehabilitation Institute of Michigan to give her finger every chance for a positive recovery.

“I’ve been going to DMC Rehabilitation Institute of Michigan in Novi two times a week since my surgery.  They are just terrific there.  They’re knowledgeable and offer the most advanced treatments. But what I’m most impressed about is they’re taking care of me emotionally too.”

Kathleen says this small injury has left her depressed and frustrated.  While her friends and family are telling her to enjoy the time off work, she can’t.  The injury happened on her dominate hand and she can’t pinch or grasp. That means extra effort to write, use a keyboard, eat, dress and just in general taking care of her daily needs.

“Holy cow, this has been difficult.  I’m so thankful DMC Rehabilitation Institute is there to help me through it.  From the tip of my finger to my toes, they’re worried about the whole me.  I look forward to going back to work and getting back to life, thanks to Dr. Najarian and DMC Rehabilitation Institute of Michigan.”

DMC Rehabilitation Institute of Michigan’s Wheelchair Basketball Team Wins National Championship

DMC Rehabilitation Institute of Michigan’s (RIM) wheelchair basketball team, the Detroit Diehards, are the 2013 National Wheelchair Basketball Association’s (NWBA) Division III National Champions. The team defeated Tampa Bay in the finals Sunday, April 21 during the NWBA tournament in Louisville, Kentucky. This was the team’s fourth appearance in the tournament and their first national championship win.

The Detroit Diehards were one of 24 Division III teams competing in the tournament held April 18-21, and the only team to go undefeated during tournament play.

RIM’s 8-member team is comprised of athletes with physical disabilities, aged 18 to 40 from throughout southeast Michigan. The team was 10-4 during regular season play and was ranked third going into the tournament.
Several team members also received special honors. Eighteen year-old, double amputee, Jesus Villa, who hit a game winning shot during the semi-final game, was named MVP of the tournament. Hurie Johnson was named to the 1^st Team All-Tournament and Kevin Konfara and Deon Vereen were named to the 2^nd Team All-Tournament.

The NWBA is comprised of over 200 wheelchair basketball teams within twenty-two conferences. Founded in 1948, the NWBA today consists of men's, women's, intercollegiate, and youth teams throughout the United States of America and Canada.

RIM has been sponsoring the Detroit Diehards since 2002. The team is supported through grants, donations, and fundraising events such as RIM’s annual “Celebrity Wheelchair Basketball Game,” (www.celebritywheelchairbasketball.org)

DMC’s Rehabilitation Institute of Michigan is one of the nation’s largest hospitals specializing in physical medicine and rehabilitation. The Institute is home to many innovative programs, including the Center for Spinal Cord Injury Recovery, a world-class facility designed to implement and study innovative treatments in spinal cord injury recovery. RIM is one of eight hospitals operated by the Detroit Medical Center (DMC). The DMC is proud to be the Official Healthcare Services Provider of the Detroit Tigers, Detroit Red Wings, and Detroit Pistons.

Paralympic Medalist, Jeremy Campbell, to visit DMC Rehabilitation Institute of Michigan

DMC Rehabilitation Institute of Michigan (RIM) is pleased to welcome Paralympic gold medalist, Jeremy Campbell, to Detroit. Jeremy will be speaking to patients, staff and athletes with disabilities at RIM on Wednesday, April 10 from 12-1:30 pm in RIM’s auditorium, located at 261 Mack, Detroit, MI. The event is free and open to the public.

Campbell, from Perryton, TX, was born without a right fibula and had is lower leg amputated when he was only 16 months old. The youngest of three brothers, Campbell grew up in an athletic family and wanted to follow in his brothers’ athletic footsteps, even if he had just one foot to do it.

He spent most of his entire life competing against able-bodied athletes, first as an All-State football player in high school and then in other sports.  As a member of the U.S. National Track & Field Paralympic Team, he has achieved world-wide success and broken numerous records.

Campbell, who competes with a carbon-fiber blade attached to his right leg, is the first disabled athlete to break 60 meters in the 1.5-kilo discus. He set a world record at the Endeavor Games with a throw of 63.45 meters (208 feet, 2 inches).
Campbell earned a pair of gold medals in the 2008 Paralympic Games in Beijing in the discus and pentathlon, and most recently he won gold again in the discus at the 2012 Paralympic Games in London.
Not only is Jeremy training for the 2016 Rio Paralympic Games, he has also set his eyes on qualifying and competing in the Olympic Games. Off the track, Jeremy prides himself on giving back in the community and being an active role model for those with a disability to show others that no dream is ever too big or out of reach. 

In recognition of his accomplishments, Campbell will receive “The Spirit of da Vinci Award, ” and deliver the keynote speech at the National MS Society’s 2013 da Vinci Awards^® gala, Thursday, April 11, at the Ford Conference and Event Center in Dearborn, Michigan. 
The da Vinci Awards^® are an international forum of recognition for the most innovative developments in adaptive and assistive technologies.  Inventors and innovators from around the world will compete to win the da Vinci Award in each of five award categories, with the winners announced live at the April 11 gala.

For more information about the da Vinci Awards, visit http://www.davinciawards.org/

When should you stretch, before or after your workout?

To stretch or not to stretch…..that is the question! And the answer is YES!

But I know you all knew that, right?  Now you may ask, “When should I stretch, before or after my workout?”

Well, I am glad you asked! It turns out that you should actually do both; stretch before and after your workout.

Now here’s the scoop on what to do and when to do it.

There are two types of stretches; static and dynamic.  The static stretch would be considered the “old school” stretch that increases muscle flexibility by moving one end of the muscle while the other end is fixed. The muscle is stretched in only one direction and usually held for 20-30 seconds and repeated multiple times. The dynamic stretch, or “new school” stretch is a stretch that uses sports/activity specific movements to prepare the body for activity.  During this stretch you perform movements similar to the sport/activity you are preparing for by gradually increasing the reach and speed of the movement as the range of motion is also increased. Dynamic stretching stretches the muscle in multiple directions. This is important because during physical activities we are constantly moving in multiple directions, therefore the dynamic stretch will better prepare us for the physical demands of sports related activities.

Here’s the key: Before your activity (especially a sport related activity) begin with a dynamic stretch. Perform the actual movements of the sport/activity and then end with a cool down program that includes static stretching to the muscle groups that were used during the workout.

Why you ask? That’s a good question! Well research has shown that static stretching can decrease muscle strength by up to 9% for 60 minutes after the stretch.  Additionally, the force a muscle can produce may be reduced for a period of time after a static stretch.  On the other hand, dynamic stretching increases core strength, elongates the muscles, stimulates the nervous system, and helps decrease the chance of injury.

Here’s an example of what you should do to incorporate static and dynamic stretching into your exercise routine.

If you were going to play tennis, and wanted to start with a dynamic stretch prior to your match, you could begin by performing mini squats, and then side step squats to the left and right. This would prepare your quadriceps for activity. After the match you could perform a static stretch for your quadriceps by standing on one leg and grabbing the ankle of the opposite leg while pulling it toward your buttock and holding for 20-30 seconds, and repeating 3 times.

Now that you know, you are responsible. Go forth and stretch!

By: Deneen Carter, DPT, OMPT, CSCS, DMC Rehabilitation Institute of Michigan

Power Foods: The Best Foods for Recovery After a Workout

So you want to minimize muscle soreness and maximize muscle recovery after your workout? You need to know what to eat and when to eat it!

Recent studies indicate that vigorous exercise that lasts longer than 45 minutes depletes your body of glycogen, the form of glucose your body uses for quick energy. Glycogen is stored in your muscles and liver. After about 60 minutes of exercise, your body then uses fat for energy. During vigorous exercise your muscles also experience micro tears. After your workout it is important to rehydrate, consume simple carbohydrates to restore glycogen, and eat lean protein to help with muscle repair.

In order to maximize glycogen uptake and muscle repair you should eat within 15 to 30 minutes of exercise completion. Right after exercising, your muscles are most sensitive to acquire the nutrients needed for refueling and repairing.

Sports Scientists suggest that in order to get ready for that next bout of exercise, you need to eat a ratio of 2 to 1 or 4 to 1 carbohydrates to protein. It is most important for those who exercise daily to get the right nutrition for recovery.

Which foods are best? There are many natural whole food options. Believe it or not, lowfat chocolate milk is a great post-workout drink. It is high in carbohydrates and protein, with the added benefit of replenishing calcium, magnesium, and potassium. You can make your own smoothie using some type of protein like milk or Greek yogurt and add carbohydrates such as honey, banana, or berries. You will also get the added anti-oxidant benefits from the berries. Other easy and quick choices after a workout include almond butter on a rice cake, a bowl of granola with a cup of low fat milk, a cup of oatmeal with raisins or berries and low fat milk. When you are short on time, a protein bar or energy bar will work too.

Consuming a variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, grains, lean meats and beans on a daily basis will keep your body running at its peak. Add a little turmeric and ginger to your food or in your smoothies. These spices have natural anti-inflammatory properties to help your body recover faster after workouts.

Good nutrition goes hand and hand with adequate rest and recovery. Make time to get 7 to 8 hours of sleep each night and your body will be able to take the time it needs to repair for your next big workout.

By: Ann Marie Valentine, MPT, OMPT, DMC Rehabilitation Institute of Michigan

Adaptive sports allow persons with disabilities to get out and participate

Participation in “sports” and recreation activities has been proven to benefit an individual’s physical, mental, emotional and social skills. For individuals with disabilities (physical, cognitive, and/or emotional), adaptive sports can bypass limitations and allow for participation in a sport of choice. Whether the goal is weight loss, decreasing stress, improving strength, avoiding boredom, meeting people, competing or just having fun, there are ways to adapt pretty much any sport to allow for participation by anybody! There are also sports that have been created specifically for persons with a disability. With the large variety of adaptive sports available there is now something for everyone whether they want to work alone, in a group, for recreation or to compete.

Adaptive sports for people with physical limitations began emerging after World War II when soldiers returning from war were involved in rehabilitation. These sports eventually moved from rehabilitation to recreation to competition. The current Paralympic Games can be traced back to these early hospital rehabilitation sports.  With the emphasis on “inclusion” which began in the 1980’s (focus on including athletes with disabilities in the able bodied sport system) more events and training opportunities have emerged. Full integration has not yet been realized, but we are seeing glimmers of it. Take for example, the recent announcement by the U.S. Department of Education to mandate that schools must give students with disabilities equal opportunities to participate in extracurricular athletics, including varsity sports. And if existing sports don't meet the needs of those students, schools must create additional athletic programs.

Another great example, was seeing runner Oscar Pistorius compete in the 2012 summer Olympics. He made history as the first amputee to compete in track at the Olympic Games. Ironically, some athletes complained that his specially designed prosthetics gave him an unfair advantage, but most were awed by his strength and agility and realized he was an incredible elite athlete. This was the true definition of inclusion at work!

Some examples of adaptive sports include using a sit-ski to water or downhill ski, using a ramp or handle ball to bowl, using a sled to play hockey or using a specially designed court chair to play wheelchair basketball or tennis. There are various throwing chairs, gloves, graspers and holders that can be used to assist with throwing discus, shot put or javelins. For weight lifting and use of exercise machines there are also gloves and graspers and hand propelled bikes are now being included at gyms for cycling classes. Each sport also has specific rules and regulations.    

Recreational therapists (Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialists or CTRS) are experts at assisting people with introducing, learning about and becoming involved in adaptive sports. These therapists  are specially trained in working with a wide variety of people with disabilities and in assisting anyone with trying new or re-learning recreational pursuits and in adapting the activity to allow for participation.  The expense of the adaptive sports equipment  continues to be a challenge for most,  but recreational therapists involved in adaptive sports are also experts at assisting with finding ways for everyone to participate in their sport of choice!

    

By: Sue Boeve, Sr. CTRS, DMC Rehabilitation Institute of Michigan

Top 5 Exercise Excuses and How You Can Avoid Them

We've all heard of the benefits that come from exercising regularly. People who are physically active are healthier, feel happier and have more energy. But when it comes to getting out there and exercising, many of us have a long list of excuses for why we shouldn't. How can you conquer your excuses and get moving? Here are five of the most common excuses and ways to beat them.

1. I'm too busy. The U.S. Surgeon General recommends at least 150 minutes of aerobic activity a week. This may seem like a lot, but it's not much more than 20 minutes a day. Start looking at your schedule to see where you can fit this initial 20 minutes. Maybe you can jog in place while watching TV. Better yet, try turning off the TV and using that time for exercising.
2. I'm too tired. Physical activity is often associated with exhaustion. However, being physically active actually releases endorphins into your body, leaving you feeling energized. Instead of focusing on how tired you feel before you exercise, focus instead on the energized feeling you will get after your workout.
3. It's too hot/cold. Have a backup plan ready for those days when the weather isn't cooperating. This might mean that you need to broaden your exercise regimen to incorporate activities that can be moved indoors, like Pilates or yoga. Many times fitness programs like these even have DVDs and videos that you can watch and follow along at home.
4. I hate going to the gym. You don't have to go to a gym to get exercise. Find an activity you love and incorporate it into your exercise regimen. For example, if you love music, why not join a dance or cycle class set to music? Or if you enjoy reading, why not get some audio books and listen while you take a walk?
5. I can never follow through. Changing habits is always difficult. The key to making your lifestyle more active is to set small attainable goals for yourself. Don't try to run for an hour on your first go, build up to it. By breaking up your exercise goals into small manageable pieces you will make exercising easier on yourself and more manageable in the long run.

Exercising doesn't have to be something you dread, it can be fun! Try teaming up with an exercise buddy so you can keep each other on track and motivated. It's harder to make excuses when someone is counting on you to be there for a walk, bike ride or trip to the gym. Check out the schedule of FREE fitness and wellness classes offered at DMC Rehabilitation Institute of Michigan. To download our winter classes click here.

Is Joint Replacement Surgery Right for You?

Joint replacement is one of the most common orthopedic surgeries performed today, with the hip and knee being the most frequently replaced joints. In fact, knee replacements have doubled in the past decade, and not just among the elderly. People age 45 to 64 were 2.5 times more likely to be hospitalized for knee replacement surgery in 2009 than in 1997.* But joint replacement may not be the best solution for everyone. Many factors will determine whether trading in your aching joint for a stronger, better, faster replacement is the right step for you.

The Nuts and Bolts of Joint Replacement

Joint deterioration has a number of causes. Injuries, autoimmune conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and the general wear and tear that occur over time may all take a toll on the body's joints, causing pain and inhibiting motion. Joint replacement surgery exchanges the worn out part with a prosthesis made of plastic, metal or a combination of both. With successful outcomes in more than 90% of cases,* patients who've had a joint replaced may enjoy better quality of life, relief from pain, stiffness or swelling and improved range of motion. But no surgery is without risks and, although the complication rate in joint replacement is low, patients are susceptible to infection, blood clots and loosening or dislocation of the joint.

When Is Joint Replacement the Right Choice?

The severity of your condition will likely be a significant factor in the decision to have joint replacement surgery. If aching and stiff joints cause constant pain, limit your ability to walk or climb stairs and affect your quality of life, you may be a likely candidate for joint replacement surgery.
In addition to the extent of your pain and lost mobility, your doctor will consider:

• Alternatives to surgery. Depending on the cause of your joint pain, medications, physical therapy or aids such as a brace may be effective treatment options.
• Your age. Little research has been done on the long-term effectiveness of joint replacement for a younger, more physically active generation. Prosthetic joints typically last only 10 to 15 years, making younger candidates more likely to need additional surgeries to have the prosthetic joint replaced.
• Your general health. Certain diseases, such as high blood pressure or heart and lung disease increase the risks associated with surgery. Osteoporosis and bone or joint deformity may affect the success of joint replacement.
• Your weight. Obesity can prolong recovery and affect the durability of the new joint.

Get Back in the Game

If a bum joint has you sitting on the bench, contact the Detroit Medical Center (DMC). Whether you want to get back in the game or simply back to your life, our orthopedic specialists can help you find the treatment option that works best for you.
At DMC, our expert joint replacement team is using the latest technology and techniques to ensure successful outcomes. From specialty diagnostics to customized implants to complete rehabilitation programs, our board certified orthopaedic surgeons can present a variety of options to help you resume an active life. To learn more, call 888-DMC-2500.

DMC Rehabilitation Institute of Michigan Opens New Neuroscience Unit

DMC Rehabilitation Institute of Michigan (RIM) is excited to announce the grand opening of their newly renovated, $5.5 million, Neuroscience Unit for stroke and brain injury recovery. The 17-bed unit features therapeutic robotic technology, a therapy gym for interactive programming, private and semi-private suites with “Smart Room” capabilities, and enhanced video monitoring equipment for patient safety.

The new unit also features state-of-the-art equipment, especially designed for neurorecovery. RIM is the first hospital in Michigan to own the Zero G and InMotion Arm.

The Zero G is the world's most advanced over ground gait and balance training system. It allows patients to safely practice intensive physical therapy early in their rehabilitation, a factor shown to be related to enhanced outcomes. The InMotion Arm is the first interactive robot designed to treat patients with upper extremity impairments due to stroke, brain injury or other neurologic conditions. The technology was developed at MIT and has substantial research evidence proving that using the InMotion robot to delivery high intensity repetitions required for "rewiring" the brain results in increased motor recovery.

As southeast Michigan’s only freestanding rehabilitation hospital, patients and families turn to RIM for hope when others have given up. In 2011, RIM treated nearly 200 stroke patients and 100 brain injury patients, many of whom are leading meaningful and productive lives thanks to RIM. This new unit will allow us to ensure even more patients have a bright future filled with hope and possibilities.

5 Fun Fitness Ideas for Fall

As the season changes, so can you. Below are some fun ways to add physical activity into your daily routines during the fall season.

1.       Back to School Isn’t Just for the Kids

Fall doesn’t have to be a time when only the kids and college students go back to school to learn something new - so can you. Have you ever wanted to learn belly dancing or try a TRX class? Now is the time. Better yet, when your body is unaccustomed to an activity, you burn more calories. Look around for local gyms and recreation centers that may offer some classes. Some other ideas include, Zumba, yoga, kickboxing, cycling, tennis, racquetball, and boot camp. Couples can look into dance classes or join a recreational team like a hockey league or indoor soccer team.

2.       Enjoy the Weather

The cooler temperatures and less humidity make the perfect storm for brisk walking, jogging, running, or cycling. Look around your area for parks that have paved paths to avoid traffic and take a friend. Be sure to prepare for the darkness. Just because it is 6 a.m. or 6 p.m. and it is still dark doesn’t mean that you can’t workout. The key is to be smart about it. Wear a reflective vest or carry a flashlight in the event you are by roads. If you decide to cycle, make sure to attach a light or helmet to your bike. As the fall slowly turns into the winter, be sure to dress in layers. Your body will heat-up once your blood gets pumping and you may want to shed a layer or two. Try to keep the layer closest to your body a moisture wicking material like “Dri-Fit”. If you’re exercising in the afternoon, don’t forget your sunglasses. The fall sun can be blinding at times.

3.       Family Activities

If you’re looking for something to do with the family, local farmers often times offer corn mazes that are fun for you and the kids, or you and your significant other. Challenge your friends or family to a corn maze race; time each other and see who can get through the maze the quickest. Some other fun fall outdoor ideas include paintballing and archery. Closer to Halloween try pumpkin picking. Ask the workers if you can walk back to the patch rather than hitching a ride on the tractor or hay wagon. If you want to incorporate healthy food and activity, look for an apple orchard in your area. After walking around and picking apples, try your best to avoid the donuts at the shop, and focus on going home to have a fresh picked apple as a snack; they’re great with peanut butter.

4.       Become an Active TV Watcher

Many of us get antsy for the fall premiers of our favorite TV shows. If you’re planning to park your behind on the couch for a couple hours several nights a week – this could be detrimental to your physical activity goals, so become an active TV watcher. During commercials do some body weight exercises. To warm up you can start with marching or jogging in place. Plan on doing things that don’t take up much space like lunges, squats, push-ups (modified push-ups on your knees), and crunches or sit-ups. For higher intense cardio you can add in some jumping jacks, burpies, mountain climbers, or high knees.

5.       Exercise and Work – It Can Happen

The next time you have a meeting with a co-worker or supervisor, ask them if they want to have a traveling meeting. Find a route around the building you are in, or better yet, walk outside your building. You may find yourself more awake and alert and coming up with better ideas and solutions to problems during the ‘traveling’ meeting. As you walk, you increase your circulation and blood flow. Increased blood flow carries more oxygen and nutrients to your brain and cells making you feel more energized and focused. 

There are many things you can do to increase your physical activity levels, so get out and enjoy this fall.

By: Erica Hirsch - MPH, CPT

DMC Rehabilitation Institute of Michigan 

Wheelchair to 5K: The Frank Amprim Story

“I know I can count on my son for just about anything now.  Because of him, I’m here today,” says Frank Amprim.

Frank and his son were riding ATVs while vacationing in Utah.  Frank’s vehicle flipped, he fell off and the ATV landed on top of him.  Frank was unconscious when his son made the tough decision to leave his dad’s side and go for help.

“They airlifted me to the Las Vegas Medical Center two hours away.  My back was broken and they put in a titanium cage, screws and bolts.  Doctors said I would never run or kick box and would always have difficulty walking.”

Two weeks after his accident, Frank was flown to Detroit to begin inpatient rehabilitation at DMC Rehabilitation Institute of Michigan (RIM).  “They got me up and walking and by the time I left, I was using a walker.”

Frank started outpatient rehab at a center closer to his home but progress was slow.  He remembered seeing RIM’s Center for Spinal Cord Recovery, and said, “This is the place I need to be.”

“From that first day, they just pushed and pushed me.  Therapy was intense, but I got better.  One day my therapist said we were done with my walker and I’ve never used one since.”

Frank says he never would have improved to the extent he has without RIM.  “My therapists are always right by my side.  If I’m running up and down stairs, they are too.  If I’m lifting weights, they are too.  It’s one year later and I’ve signed up for a 5K, guess what?  My therapist is running with me.  I don’t know where else you could get that kind of support.  They’re amazing.”

Follow the rest of Frank’s story as he prepares to finish a 5K at the Detroit Free Press Marathon on October 21, 2012. Go to our YouTube channel at www.YouTube.com/RehabInstitute to watch our “Wheelchair to 5K” video series.

5 Tips for Eating Healthier on the Go!

Wake up at the crack of dawn, get the kids ready for school, drop them off at school on your way to work, work your non-stop eight hour shift, pick the kids up from school, take them to practice, go home and cook dinner, eat dinner, wash the kids, put them to bed, and then fall asleep immediately afterward.  Sound familiar?  Exhausted just reading that?  There didn’t appear to be much room or thought in that crazy busy schedule for healthy eating.  Healthy eating is important for retention of a healthy mind, body, and soul. Here a five ways to eat healthier on the go.

1.  Plan Ahead

Eating healthy requires a little bit of preplanning. Make time by scheduling about 2-3 hours on Sunday each week for shopping and cooking.  Create a meal plan for the whole week with your family, and even allow the kids to have a say in what they eat, but make sure it’s a healthy choice.  Then, use a grocery list based on your meal plan to only buy fresh foods for that week.  Make the grocery store a Sunday family ritual and allow the kids to “find” each thing on the list.  Getting everyone involved in healthy eating will make it more fun and easier to get them to eat it.  Next, prepare any meals that you can for the week on that Sunday. You can store them in containers and refrigerate or freeze. For example, you could bake several chicken breasts and yams, steam a pot of brown rice and hard boil a couple dozen eggs.  Also try blending together a stir fry with lean turkey, mixed vegetables and quinoa or some other form of whole grain. 

2.  Eat 5-6 smaller meals per day

Eating 5-6 smaller meals throughout the day keeps your metabolism up and burns calories.  If you’re constantly on the go, pack healthy snacks in your briefcase or purse. You can eat these snacks in between meals to prevent getting hungry and to avoid eating a high calorie snack.  For example, you can pack dried fruit, nuts, trail mixes, fresh fruit, or nutrition bars, and if you have a refrigerator at work, bring yogurt, cheese cubes, baby carrots, celery sticks and all natural peanut butter.  You can even keep some healthy protein bars in your car for hunger emergencies.

3.  Always eat breakfast

Studies have shown people who eat breakfast regularly tend to have a healthier diet.  Choose breakfast foods that have fiber, protein, and complex carbohydrates to keep you full longer and more satisfied.  Avoid sugary, fatty, or salty foods that will only make you hungry for more of that bad food shortly after you eat it because of a drop in blood sugar levels.  Plan ahead by setting aside 15-20 minutes each night to prepare lunch and breakfast for the next day.  You’ll be glad you did because you can just grab and go in the morning without a second thought.  For example, grab two pre-made, hard-boiled eggs and half of a whole grain bagel on your way out the door and eat on your way to work. 

4.  Drink plenty of water

Water is vital because it transports oxygen and nutrients throughout the body as well as regulates various bodily functions necessary for life.  Always carry a reusable water bottle with you and drink often.  Be aware, sometimes hunger is mistaken for dehydration.  If your stomach is still hungry after you’ve had some water, then go ahead and eat something. 

5.  Keep only healthy foods in the house

If you don’t have access to unhealthy foods, you can’t eat them.  Replace junk food with fresh fruits and vegetables, dried fruit, nut butters, frozen fruits and veggies, nuts, seeds, cottage cheese and yogurt.  Remember to eat in moderation though. You can still have a slice of pizza or a piece of chocolate cake once in awhile, but only have 1 slice or only 1 small sliver of the cake.  Just make sure you eat healthy the rest of the day- don’t drive yourself crazy over cravings!

Spending a little time each day to be conscious of what you’re eating will go a long way.  It may be tough at first, but keep it going for a couple weeks and before you know it, you will have created a new healthy lifestyle and will feel so much better

By: Cassie Kish, CPT, Rehab Trainer, DMC Rehabilitation Institute of Michigan

How to Choose a Physical Therapist

As you would choose a physician to help you with a specific ailment, you need to find a physical therapist (PT) which will compliment your injury.  PTs have many types of backgrounds and education from pediatric to neurological (stroke, head injury, spinal cord), to orthopedic.  Each therapist in each area of PT is also different.  When researching a PT, call a hospital or clinic and ask the following:

• If you want a “seasoned” PT then ask, When did they graduate?  Recent graduates may not have all the ‘experience’ yet to treat all diagnoses and progress them efficiently and effectively.

• What is their area of expertise?  Ask if the PT specializes in the area for which you are being treated.  Many PTs specialize in several areas.  If you have knee pain, you want to see a PT who specializes in orthopedics, not pediatrics. 

• Does the PT have any specific credentials?  Most PTs will take continuing education classes to enhance their own skills.  Some programs will allow the PT to earn an advanced certification (OMPT, NDT). 

• Will the PT that is assigned to me be the primary treating therapist?  If you want direct care from the PT then this needs to be asked. Some facilities ‘pass’ patients to PT Assistants or Athletic Trainers. You could be going to a great PT but if the assistants are performing the majority of your care, then are you?  PT Assistants and Athletic Trainers are great assets to PTs. They are educated and licensed to help under the supervision of a PT.  Physical Therapy Aides/Technicians are trained on the job and are not licensed.  You want to go to a facility that has the PT doing the majority of your treatment.

Know what your insurance covers.  There may be some limitations as it relates to physical therapy.  Be motivated to work hard to get better. You are not just a patient, you’re an important member of the rehab team.

DMC Rehabilitation Institute of Michigan has over 30 locations throughout southeast Michigan. To find a physical therapist near you visit us at www.RIMrehab.org

By:  Suzanne Schmidt, MPT and Jon Nettie, PT, DMC Rehabilitation Institute of Michigan