Shin Splints

Shin splints or tibial stress syndrome is a painful injury most common to runners. This diagnosis; however, is merely a term for the symptoms of the overlaying issue such as a stress fracture or a mechanical issue originating in your feet. If you begin to have a dull aching pain in your lower leg during activity you should begin to ice immediately and anti-inflammatory medication may also be indicated. If this problem persists seek advice from a medical professional to begin a plan to address any mechanical cause of the pain through exercises to increase your strength and flexibility, It is important not to continue running "through the pain" this may continue to injure the area and make the shin splints worse. One of the best ways to help yourself as an athlete if you are prone to shin splints is:

-Wear proper footwear
-Stretch properly before activity
-Be aware of pain during activity
-Don’t run on hard surfaces

For more information, or to schedule a consultation for physical therapy, feel free to contact us at 518-690-4406 or visit our website at www.empirehwc.com or email us at ehwc7@nycap.rr.com.

William Milhizer, PT, DPT

http://www.webmd.com/fitness-exercise/shin-splints?page=2

With new technology being unveiled every year Microsoft is looking as it has set the bar with Kinect for use with the XBox 360. The electronics entertainment expo is being held in LA, this week and Microsoft has unveiled its new motion capture gaming hardware. The Kinect will allow anyone to control games and media without controllers. That’s right no more loosing remotes! Also this allows for more intuitive and fun rehabilitation and fitness options. Look in the next few months to Empire Health & Wellness for updates and look for the Kinect to be released later this year.

For more information about 'virtual rehabilitation, or to schedule a consultation, feel free to contact us at 518-690-4406 or visit our website at www.empirehwc.com or email us at ehwc7@nycap.rr.com.

William Milhizer, PT, DPT

http://www.xbox.com/en-US/kinect
http://www.e3expo.com/

What is Degenerative disk disease?

Degenerative disk disease or DDD is less of a disease and more descriptive of the normal change to ones spine during the aging process. As you age your intervertebral disks loose height and are less effective in absorbing shock throughout your everyday activities. These changes are most common in your neck and back and may increase the risk of developing other disorders such as herniated disks or spinal stenosis. As this problem arises you may start to develop back or neck pain, lack of range of motion, and/or numbness into upper or lower extremities. At this time it good to seek medical advice to help to restore range of motion and improve quality of life. Your doctor may recommend an anti-inflammatory to reduce the pain and inflammation after an extensive evaluation and may recommend Physical Therapy. Through conservative management of PT and development of a home exercise program of simple stretching and strengthening exercises most people can find relief of lower back or neck pain.

For more information, or to schedule a consultation for personal training, feel free to contact us at 518-690-4406 or visit our website at www.empirehwc.com or email us at ehwc7@nycap.rr.com.

William Milhizer, PT, DPT

http://www.webmd.com/back-pain/tc/degenerative-disc-disease-topic-overview?page=2

Sun Protection

As the summer approaches and more people head outside for various activities it is important to realize that without protection the sun can be dangerous. Through careful precaution and management it is possable to enjoy outdoor activities safely.



1. Wear sunscreen:
a. Apply a broad spectrum SPF 30 sun block to all exposed areas. The term broad spectrum means that is blocks UVA and UVB rays. Re-apply the sun block every 2 hours.

2. Wear protective clothing:
a. Hats and sunglasses are good examples of clothing that can protect you from the suns rays.

3. Seek shade:
a. The sun is strongest between the hours of 10am and 4pm. During this time it is advisable to seek shade whenever possible.

4. Use caution near water, snow, and sand:
a. These surfaces will reflect the harmful rays and may increase your chances of developing sunburn.

Follow some of these simple steps of sun protection and you can continue to have a great time in the summer sun without repercussions.

For more information on sun protection and the effects of sun on the human body please visit The American Academy of Dermatology’s web site at http://www.aad.org/public/publications/pamphlets/sun_sun.html

For more information, or to schedule a consultation for personal training, feel free to contact us at 518-690-4406 or visit our website at www.empirehwc.com or email us at ehwc7@nycap.rr.com.

William Milhizer, PT, DPT