Degenerative Cervical Myelopathy Treatment
Degenerative cervical myelopathy (DCM) is a condition that results in the compression of the spine in the neck. It can result in pain and loss of function, significantly impacting a person's quality of life. Early recognition and treatment essential to help prevent further deterioration. Physiotherapists have a role throughout the disease progression of DCM from the detection and appropriate referral to management of symptoms and treatment to improve mobility. In this article we will look at the symptoms and causes of DCM, how it is diagnosed, and the treatment options for degenerative cervical myelopathy. We will also highlight the [...]
Strength Training for People with Complete Spinal Cord Injuries
At Propel Physiotherapy, our work with individuals living with complete spinal cord injuries (SCI) has shown us the unique challenges they face, but it has also highlighted the pivotal role that strength training can play in their lives. While the approach and goals may differ for individuals with a SCI, the benefits of strength training—improved health, enhanced well-being, and greater independence—are very similar. In this blog, we’ll explore the benefits of strength training after a spinal cord injury, as well as how individuals with complete spinal cord injuries can safely and effectively engage in strength training. Table of Contents: [...]
Customizable Employee Wellness Workshops for Small to Medium Size Businesses
Employee wellness programs are a tangible way for employers to support the health and overall well-being of employees. These programs, which include popular offerings like on-site fitness centres, yoga classes, smoking cessation programs and summer hours can positively influence work culture and attract new hires. However, in order to be effective, employees must use the services being offered. In Canada, wellness program participation rates are extremely low, with only 11% of employees saying they definitely participate on a regular basis and another 23% participating only occasionally.[i] Some barriers to participation can include workload, optics of taking time away from [...]
Stroke Occupational Therapy
Stroke occupational therapy is a key component in the rehabilitation journey from the initial stages in hospital to discharge - and in the months and sometimes years following a stroke. The number of Canadians who are living with stroke has increased to 878,000, making the need for specialized care directed towards the long-term needs of this population ever more vital. At Propel, occupational therapists work side by side with the physiotherapists assessing and treating stroke patients to improve their motor, sensory and cognitive capacities that may be affected by the stroke and interfering in their functional abilities. In this [...]
Importance of Early Mobilization After Stroke
Early mobilization after stroke has been proven to be beneficial in recovery. This early mobilization involves exercises that focus on functional mobility, like rolling over, sitting, standing and eventually walking. Early mobilization that begins as early as 24 hours after stroke has been shown to improve both physical function and recovery of the brain. In this article, we look at the changes the brain undergoes in the critical period immediately following a stroke and the types of impairments that can result. We will also discuss types of early mobility training that can optimize recovery after a stroke and the [...]
Postnatal Physiotherapy: Regaining Mobility and Function After Childbirth
After childbirth, many women experience changes in their body, including their pelvic health. This could present as incontinence, pain, symptoms of pelvic organ prolapse and more. As a pelvic health physiotherapist at Propel Physiotherapy, I often see women who are navigating these changes and seeking support to regain their strength, mobility and function. In this article, I delve into the role of the pelvic floor, common pelvic health concerns after childbirth, how postnatal physiotherapy can improve your pelvic health and how to know when it is time to seek help from a pelvic physiotherapist. Table of Contents What is [...]