One Step at a Time into Summer

By Logan Winterton, RN, BSN

We live in arguably one of the most beautiful, scenic areas in the country, and not even St. George’s scorching summer temperatures deter people from exploring the natural wonders of southern Utah. However, if you are like the clients I cared for while working as a nurse in our community, your summer fun may feel out of reach. The advertisements that show a family kayaking are exciting, but what if walking to the mailbox is a challenge? Physical therapy can assist you in taking the first step toward improved mobility and overall well-being.

No one wants to be limited in their ability to join friends and family members in summer activities, but the reality is that roughly nineteen million people in the United States report mobility difficulties. These aren’t just problems of old age; the average age of those reporting was fifty-nine to sixty-seven years old.¹ Of those surveyed, the most frequent complaints were arthritis, generalized back pain, and complications from accidental falls.

The ability to move safely and easily is central to daily life, and physical therapists play a pivotal role in optimizing your health and mobility. People of all ages can benefit from physical therapy, which can be provided in an outpatient or home setting. If you are wondering if physical therapy is right for you, talk to your primary care physician. Common indicators include recovering from an injury or trauma, after a surgical intervention, lingering pain, and worsening weakness. Those who have participated report that physical therapy:

• Improves mobility

• Reduces or eliminates pain

• Provides an alternative to surgery

• Improves balance

• Teaches fall prevention techniques

• Aids in recovery from sports related injuries

• Assists in managing medical conditions

Regardless of whether you need physical therapy, we all benefit from increased movement. Improving your quality of life is as simple as taking that first step and finding the motivation to keep going. Increase your exercise regimen gradually, and don’t expect progress overnight. Be patient with yourself, and celebrate the progress you make!

If chronic pain, mobility concerns, or medical conditions make it difficult to leave your home and you aren’t living your life fully, please contact Dixie Home Rehab at 435628-8347. Dixie Home Rehab is the only company in southern Utah that specializes primarily in therapy-driven rehabilitation care for joint replacement patients and employs the most efficient rapid joint recovery methods available. Their team of highly-trained clinicians will identify areas of potential improvement, provide a personalized home exercise regimen, and follow through one step at a time until your goals are met.

About the Author

Logan Winterton received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Southern Utah University and has worked in a variety of settings, primarily intensive care. Three years ago, she made the shift to home health and hospice and assisted in starting Dixie Palliative Care. She finds deep satisfaction in making a personal connection with those she cares for and hopes to empower her clients through education to make positive changes in their lives.