Healing Touch

These days, getting a massage isn't just a way to unwind and relax after a stressful work week. With more research being done on the healthful benefits of massage, health care providers and patients alike are turning to massage to treat a wide variety of ailments.

We already know that massage relaxes our tired muscles, decreases our stress level and can even rejuvenate us, but below is a list of more surprising benefits of massage therapy:

• Lessens migraine headache pain and sleep disturbances
• Relieves severe premenstrual syndrome
• Enhances immunity by stimulating lymph flow
• Increases circulation by pumping oxygen and blood into tissue and vital organs
• Decreases aches, stiffness and pain in arthritis sufferers
• Increases pulmonary function and peak air flow in asthmatics
• Reduces pain, itching and anxiety in burn victims

With all of these benefits and more, it's no surprise that a recent study found that a majority of primary and family care physicians would recommend and encourage their patients to seek massage as a part of their therapy treatment.

If you are interested in learning more about massage and how our physical therapists integrate massage therapy into our rehabilitation programs, let us know! Call Empire Health and Wellness Center (518) 690-4406 for more information.

Healthy Seminars For Women

When it comes to your health, information is key. Being informed is a great way to learn more about potential prevention, medication, treatment, etc. for yourself or someone you love. Below are two upcoming seminars that are a must-attend for women.

• "Cancer: Reduce your risk by 70%" - hosted by the Albany Medical Center. This FREE seminar will offer 7 simple ways to reduce your cancer risk by70%. Seating is limited, so register at timesunion.com/healthylife by Friday, Nov. 6.

Thursday, November 12, 5-7 pm
The Desmond
660 Albany Shaker Rd. Albany

• A Celebration of Women Conference - hosted by St. Peter's Health Care Services. This conference is an opportunity for women of the Capital Region to learn, laugh and to seek a healtier, happier lifestyle. Registration is $45 per person, includes afternoon sessions, dinner and keynote presentation. Please visit www.sphcs.org/Celebrationofwomen to register, view more information and an agenda of events.

Tuesday, October 27
Albany Marriott
189 Wolf Rd. Albany

Exercising After Injury

Many people wonder whether it is safe to return to or begin exercising after suffering an injury. While it can be a daunting task, exercise is generally a great way to improve your overall health and to heal your injured muscles or joints.

Exercise increases the flow of blood and oxygen through the body and the working muscles, promoting faster healing. Also, utilizing exercise for therapeutic purposes is the basis for many interventions used in physical therapy.

When you first become physically active after an injury, it is important to keep the following tips in mind:

• Take it slow and pace yourself. Don't try to pick up where you left off physically before you were injured.
  
• Warm up for 5 minutes prior to stretching to ensure you maximize your muscles ability to stretch and work.
• Stretch, stretch, stretch before you being working out.
• Avoid compensating for your injury. Your body naturally protects its weak areas, which can do harm to another body part - so be aware of how your body is moving.
  
• Listen to your body and cease any activities that cause pain.
• Cool down for 5 minutes at the end of any exercise to lower your heart rate and reduce lactic acid in your muscles.

And remember, every person and affliction is different. So if necessary schedule an appointment with your physician and consider a consultation with Empire Health & Wellness Center before you restart any exercise regimen.

Until next time,

Brendan

Relaunching Our Blog!

We are so pleased to announce the relaunching of our blog, Feel Fit for Life! This blog will offer healthy news and information to help improve your fitness level and your function.

Check back often to watch videos and read helpful articles, studies and tips to use in your every-day life in route to becoming a better, healthier you!

And remember, your thoughts are important to us. If there is a subject you want to learn more about, let us know!

Until next time,

Empire Health and Wellness Center