'Tis the Season... for Snow Shovelling!

How can I reduce my chance of injury from snow shovelling?

Winter in Alberta means snow, and usually lots of it!  For most of us that also means snow shovelling.  But it can also mean sprains, strains and back injuries if we don't follow a few simple rules when shovelling snow.

Prepare yourself by dressing properly and using the right tools; including a snow shovel that is designed to help you push the snow as opposed to lift it.  Other easy steps include:

• Keep your core muscles tight (like you are bracing your stomach to take a punch).  This will help to stabilize your back.
• Reduce the strain on your shoulders and back by keeping your back straight and your chest up.
• Push the snow instead of trying to lift it.  If you do need to lift it make sure to use your legs and take small scoops.
• Pace yourself and take breaks.
• If you feel pain, stop!

If you need help managing a strain or injury, or if you would like to talk about more injury prevention ideas, give us a call!   MOMENTUM Physical Therapy & Sports Rehab is here to help! 403-982-5600.

Stephen Uhrbach is the clinic owner and lead physiotherapist at MOMENTUM Physical Therapy & Sports Rehab Ltd. located in Okotoks, AB.

Who Do You Treat?

Is Physical Therapy for Me?

Absolutely!  Physiotherapists are trained to have a diverse skill-set that allows them to treat and manage  variety of conditions and diseases.  They work to help individuals reach their health goals within the musculoskeletal, neurological, cardiorespiratory and multi-systems.  Within these systems physiotherapists are able to assist people of all ages and work with injuries and conditions that may include areas such as oncology, arthritis, women's health, pain, wound care, occupational health, vertigo and sports medicine.

With our knowledge being anchored in movement sciences, we are committed to health, lifestyle and quality of life.  Here at MOMENTUM Physical Therapy & Sports Rehab we are committed to working with you to help promote, restore, and prolong your physical independence.  Give us a call at 403-982-5600; we would love to help determine if physiotherapy intervention is right for you!

MOMENTUM Physical Therapy & Sports Rehab accepts WCB claims, MVA claims and private pay clients.  We are also able to direct bill a number of insurance health companies to access your extended health benefits. 

Stephen Uhrbach is the clinic owner and lead physiotherapist at MOMENTUM Physical Therapy & Sports Rehab Ltd. located in Okotoks, AB.

What is Physiotherapy?

What is Physiotherapy?

Physiotherapy, also called Physical Therapy, is a health care profession that is dedicated to treating injuries that have occurred in your bones, ligaments, muscles and/or tendons.  Current requirements to use the title of Physiotherapist, or Physical Therapist, require the completion of Master's of Science Degree in Physical Therapy.

When completing an assessment your therapist will look at your injury, your ability to complete specific movements, and talk to you about your pain.  At MOMENTUM your therapist will then use a variety of treatments to promote healing.  Examples of some treatments used include: manual therapy, specialized needling techniques like IMS and acupuncture, taping, joint mobilizations, and pain-relieving modalities.  You will also receive a customized home exercise program to maximize recovery and receive injury prevention education to assist in preventing re-injury.

If you're dealing with a current injury, or think you are at risk for developing an injury, call MOMENTUM today to see how we can help you gain your momentum back! 

Stephen Uhrbach is the clinic owner and lead physiotherapist at MOMENTUM Physical Therapy & Sports Rehab Ltd. located in Okotoks, AB.

Intramuscular Stimulation

What is Intramuscular Stimulation (IMS)?

Intramuscular stimulation, or IMS, is a dry needling technique used to relieve pain and problems caused by tight muscles.  Injury, overuse, or poor posture can disrupt nerve and muscle function which leads to tight "knots" in your muscles.  These "knots" can cause pain and weakness.  

During a typical IMS session a thin needle, like those used in acupuncture, is carefully inserted into the sore muscle groups.  The needle causes the targeted muscles to twitch and relax  You'll feel an uncomfortable cramping sensation as the muscle releases but the this sensation is usually followed by a sense of immediate relief.

IMS is a powerful tool but it's really the physiotherapist's extensive knowledge of anatomy, muscle function and nerve behaviour that permits him to optimize the benefits of IMS.  Following a session of IMS it is important to follow the prescribed exercises and stretches from your physiotherapist in order to see permanent benefit.

If you're dealing with an injury, consult a therapist at MOMENTUM Physical Therapy & Sports Rehab to help determine if IMS is an effective treatment option for you.

Stephen Uhrbach is the clinic owner and lead physiotherapist at MOMENTUM Physical Therapy & Sports Rehab Ltd. located in Okotoks, AB.

Horseback Riding and Posture?

Why do my hips and back hurt after horseback riding?

Horseback riding is an activity that demands a lot from your hips, low back and tailbone.  Whether you choose to ride English or Western style, you may notice that after a long ride you start to experience nagging aches and pains in your legs and low back.  These aches and pain are often caused by shortened muscles in you hips and legs or by low back strains and sprains.  These injuries can often be avoided or minimized with some simple exercises.  Hip flexor stretching, spinal mobility exercises, and core strengthening are all important exercise that help to lengthen shortened muscles and strengthen the core muscles used to provide postural support when riding.  If you have pain when riding, or are simply interested in learning more about these exercises, call MOMENTUM today!  403-982-5600

Stephen Uhrbach is the clinic owner and lead physiotherapist at MOMENTUM Physical Therapy & Sports Rehab Ltd. located in Okotoks, AB.