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Saturday, April 5, 2008 

Physical Therapy for the Ankylosing Spondylitis Patient

    We enjoyed a presentation by three physical therapists from the Atlantic Rehabilitation Institute, Atlantic Health Outpatient Services, located on the second floor of the building where we hold our group meetings! 

Mansi Patel, PT, outlined research indicating that physical therapy, combined with medical management of AS, has been shown to result in improvement in mobility and functional capacity, not seen when patients used unsupervised "recreational" exercise or medical management alone. 

Jean Paluck, PT, described the facilities and programs available at the Atlantic Rehabilitation Institute, including Aquatic PT in their 94 degree heated pool.  After initial PT evaluation, and 4-6 visits, discharged patients are eligible to continue with a recreational pool program! 

Stacey Wolfe, PT, described the "Meeks Program" which was developed for patients with osteoporosis, but which apply to AS patients as well.  Some basic postural correction exercises were then demonstrated, noting that some types of stretches are beneficial and some are actually harmful for an individual with a variety of conditions - that is why getting a PT evaluation, and beginning an exercise program under supervision is so important, especially for us!

For further info on the Sara Meeks Method, see: http://www.sarameekspt.com

For further reading: Walk Tall, An Exercise Program for the Prevention and Treatment of Osteoporosis by Sara Meeks
       (NOTE: better price on the above book at: OPTP, also a source for Orthopedic Physical Therapy Products)

 

Nia Therapy for the AS Patient

    We also were treated to an introduction to Nia, a "non-impact aerobics" movement practice, by Teresa D'Angelo, Certified Nia Teacher.  Nia was developed in the 1980's and is performed to music.  Routines are ideally done barefoot, but may be done even in a wheel chair, if needed.  Since all the movements can be customized to one's own level of energy and flexibility, the AS patient can adjust his or her "workout" and just do "what feels good!"  The half-hour lesson left everyone feeling invigorated!

For further info on Nia, see: http://www.NiaNow.com or call 1-800-762-5762

Teresa also gives classes at Terra Sky Center for Wellness, 510 Morris Ave., Summit, NJ (908-277-1222)

For further reading: The Nia Technique by Debbie and Carlos Rosas

 

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