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January 13, 2025
At Agapé Physical Therapy , we believe that true healing extends beyond simply addressing physical ailments. It's about fostering a holistic experience that nourishes the mind, body, and spirit. Our commitment to providing exceptional care is built upon five core values: 1. Attention: Your Journey, Our Focus In today's fast-paced world, it's easy to feel overwhelmed and unheard. At Agapé, we believe in the power of undivided attention. From your initial consultation to your final session, we are dedicated to deeply understanding your unique needs and concerns. We actively listen to your goals, provide thorough answers to your questions, and create a safe space where you feel truly heard and understood. We are committed to your success. Our approach includes regular progress reviews to ensure you're on track. If adjustments are needed, we work collaboratively with you to refine your plan. Our meticulous attention to care and detail empowers you to achieve your goals 2. Excellence: Pursuing Optimal Outcomes We are driven by a relentless pursuit of excellence. Our team of highly skilled and experienced therapists utilizes the latest evidence-based techniques and cutting-edge technology to deliver the most effective and efficient treatment plans. We continuously strive to improve our knowledge and skills to ensure you receive the highest quality care possible. We are spread throughout the Rochester area with 6 locations close to your neighborhood. We also have Alter-G Antigravity treadmills at all 6 of our locations. We strive for excellence in all we do. 3. Empathy: Walking Alongside You We understand that navigating physical challenges can be emotionally and physically demanding. At Agape, we approach each patient with empathy and compassion. We strive to create a supportive and encouraging environment where you feel comfortable and safe to share your concerns and express your feelings. We walk alongside you on your healing journey, celebrating your successes and offering support during setbacks. We also understand that there may be a time when you need to speak with a professional counselor and can give you guidance on how to go about meeting those needs. 4. Consistency: Building a Foundation for Lasting Change Consistency is key to achieving long-term recovery. We believe in developing personalized treatment plans that are tailored to your specific needs and progress. Our therapists work closely with you to ensure you understand your exercises and treatment protocols, providing clear and concise instructions and ongoing support. We are committed to being consistent in our approach, ensuring that you receive the support and guidance you need throughout your recovery journey. We strive to ensure all therapists in our office are familiar with your progress. While consistent therapy with the same provider fosters strong therapeutic relationships, we understand that life happens. Should your regular therapist be unavailable, you'll feel comfortable with another familiar face in the office. 5. Appreciation: Recognizing Your Efforts We deeply value your trust and commitment to your recovery. We appreciate your dedication to your treatment plan and recognize the hard work and effort you put in each day. We celebrate your successes, both big and small, and acknowledge the courage and resilience you demonstrate throughout your healing journey. We also plan a monthly patient appreciation day to recognize your efforts and provide some light refreshments. We know you have a choice when choosing Physical Therapy and we appreciate you choosing Agapé. More Than Just Physical Therapy At Agapé, we believe that true healing extends beyond the physical. We strive to create a positive and uplifting environment where you feel valued and respected. Our commitment to these five core values – Attention, Excellence, Empathy, Consistency, and Appreciation – ensures that you receive not only exceptional physical therapy but also a truly transformative healing experience. Experience the Agapé Difference If you are looking for a physical therapy practice that prioritizes your well-being and values your unique journey, we invite you to experience the Agapé difference. Contact us today to schedule your initial consultation and begin your path to recovery.
January 8, 2025
The arrival of a new year often sparks a wave of introspection and a desire for positive change. Many of us make resolutions – to eat healthier, to exercise more, to learn a new skill. But this year, consider making a resolution that directly impacts your overall well-being: prioritize your physical health with the help of physical therapy. Physical therapy is more than just treating injuries. It's a comprehensive approach to improving your movement , reducing pain , and enhancing your overall quality of life . Whether you're an athlete looking to optimize performance , an aging adult seeking to maintain independence , or someone recovering from surgery or an injury , physical therapy can play a vital role in your journey. Here's how physical therapy can help you achieve your health goals in the new year Pain Management: Chronic Pain Relief : Do you suffer from persistent back pain , arthritis , fibromyalgia , or other chronic conditions? Physical therapy can help you manage pain effectively, reduce reliance on pain medication, and improve your overall function. Our Doctors of Physical Therapy can quickly assess your pain and determine the best course of action for treating your pain. We also have aquatic therapy at 4 of our locations. The warm water and buoyancy can significantly reduce pain. Post-Surgical Recovery : After surgery , physical therapy is crucial for regaining strength, improving range of motion, and returning to your normal activities as quickly and safely as possible. The Physical Therapists at Agape will assess your motion and provide hands on treatment, prescribe movements to improve mobility, and provide progressive home exercises to continue improving on your own. Injury Rehabilitation : Whether you've sprained an ankle , torn a ligament, or suffered a more serious injury, physical therapy provides a structured approach to healing, strengthening, and preventing re-injury. You may perform exercises such as stretching, strengthening, and balance to regain proprioception. Improved Mobility and Function: Increased Range of Motion : Physical therapy techniques, such as manual therapy and stretching, can help improve your flexibility and range of motion, making everyday activities easier and more enjoyable. As we age, arthritis and stiffness can make it more challenging to reach overhead, bend hips and knees into a full squat, and cross legs for putting on shoes and socks. Physical Therapists can help diagnose the root cause of stiffness and help improve your quality of life. Enhanced Balance and Coordination : As we age, balance and coordination can decline. Physical therapy exercises can help improve stability, reduce the risk of falls, and maintain independence. You may perform exercises such as single leg balance, tandem with one foot in front of the other, and walk on uneven surfaces like foam. All of these exercises can help improve balance and coordination. Strengthening and Conditioning : Whether you're looking to improve your overall fitness, prepare for a specific sport, or simply feel stronger in your daily life, physical therapy can help you build strength and endurance . You may feel like you can only walk for 5 minutes but let's make it 20! You may feel like you can only do 5 squats but let's make it 30! Working towards these types of goals will help improve your daily life and make it easier to get around. Preventative Care: Ergonomics and Posture : Learn proper body mechanics and posture to prevent injuries at work, home, and during exercise. A Physical Therapist can talk to you about how postural exercises may be beneficial for you. If you work at a desk, you may benefit from talking about your set up with desk height and computer height. Fall Prevention : Proactive physical therapy can help identify and address potential balance issues and improve strength and coordination, reducing the risk of falls. During the winter months, this is especially important as there are higher risk of falls on ice and slippery surfaces. Taking an active approach such as strength training and balance training can make you feel more confident and give you a better chance of being able to walk outside without falling. Pre- and Post-Natal Care : Physical therapy can help address pregnancy-related discomforts, prepare for childbirth, and aid in postpartum recovery. Low back pain is a common occurrence during pregnancy and can be addressed by physical therapy. Adding stretching and some gentle core strengthening can help with pain relief. After childbirth, some women experience difficulty with standing and squatting again due to hormonal changes and ligament laxity. Physical therapy can help you begin a gentle exercise routine to get you back to feeling great again! At Agape Physical Therapy, we are committed to providing personalized care that addresses your unique needs and goals. Our experienced therapists will work closely with you to develop a customized treatment plan that may include: Manual therapy techniques : Such as massage, joint mobilization, and soft tissue massage. Therapeutic exercises : Including strength training, stretching, and balance exercises. Modalities : Such as hot and cold packs, electrical stimulation, and pneumatic compression. Patient education : To help you understand your condition, manage your pain, and prevent future problems.  Don't wait until pain limits your activities. Make this the year you invest in your physical well-being. Schedule a consultation with Agape Physical Therapy today and discover how we can help you achieve your health and wellness goals in the new year.
December 13, 2024
Getting back to the activities you love shouldn't feel like an uphill battle. Physical therapy can be an incredibly effective tool for regaining strength, mobility, and overall well-being. Yet, many people face barriers that prevent them from seeking the care they need. At Agape Physical Therapy , we understand these hurdles. As a local, family-owned practice in Rochester, NY, we're committed to providing exceptional care with a focus on individual attention. We believe everyone deserves a personalized approach to physical therapy, delivered by highly trained doctors of physical therapy.  Here are some common barriers to physical therapy, and how Agape Physical Therapy breaks them down: Cost Concerns : Physical therapy can feel expensive, especially with copays or deductibles. We work closely with your insurance provider to maximize coverage and minimize your out-of-pocket costs. We also offer a cash pay option if you do not have insurance or would rather pay without the hassle of going through your insurance company. Lack of Time : We offer convenient scheduling options, including early morning or evening appointments, to fit your busy life. All 6 of our offices are open 7:00AM - 7:30PM Monday through Thursday and Friday we are open 7:00AM - 5:30PM. This allows you the convenience you need to get to Physical Therapy and work on getting you back to the things you love to do! Fear of the Unknown : Physical therapy can seem intimidating if you've never experienced it before. At Agape, we take the time to thoroughly explain your condition and treatment plan. You'll never feel rushed or confused about your care. Our doctors of physical therapy are trained to help you understand how to best resolve your issue. We also work closely with our referral sources, including primary care physicians, orthopedic doctors, neurologists, and chiropractors. If your treatment plan is not progressing as it should, we can easily communicate with your doctor to determine the best solution. Transportation Issu Getting to appointments can be difficult for some. We offer flexible scheduling options to minimize travel time and have 6 Rochester locations. Our Westside clinics include Brockport, Chili, Gates, and Greece. Our Eastside offices are located in Penfield and Webster. We can help you make arrangements for a medical cab if transportation to an office is an issue. Negative Past Experiences : Maybe you had a less-than-ideal experience with physical therapy in the past. At Agape, we prioritize individualized care with our highly trained doctors of physical therapy. You'll receive personalized attention and a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs and goals. We are not a “one size fits all” clinic. We want to make sure you are getting what you need out of physical therapy. If you want to get back to pickleball, baseball, or simply go out for a walk, we are here to help! Your Path to Recovery Starts Here We believe physical therapy should be accessible and effective for everyone. If you're facing barriers to care, don't hesitate to reach out . We'll work with you to overcome any obstacles and get you on the road to recovery. Ready to learn more? Check out our website and meet our team . We look forward to helping you achieve your goals and get back to doing what you love. Our marketing coordinator, Lisa Russell would be happy to answer any questions you may have. Please email her at erussell@agape-pt.com
November 26, 2024
Thanksgiving is a time for gratitude, family, and, of course, delicious food. After indulging in a hearty meal, it's important to get moving to aid digestion and to regulate blood sugar. Here are some fun and family-friendly activities to help you stay moving: Outdoor Adventures Nature's Playground : A brisk walk or hike in a nearby park or nature trail is a great way to enjoy the crisp autumn air and get some exercise. As you wander, point out the changing colors of the leaves, the interesting shapes of the trees, and the various creatures you encounter. Frisbee or Football : A friendly game of frisbee or football in the backyard is a fun way to get everyone moving and laughing. You can even set up a mini-tournament with different age groups or teams. Go for a Bike Ride : Explore your neighborhood or local bike paths as a family. Bike riding is a great way to get some exercise with less pressure on the joints. This is also a great way to increase knee range of motion as well as get the heart rate up. Scavenger Hunt : Organize a scavenger hunt with a focus on fall-themed items like colorful leaves, pinecones, or unique trees. You can add a challenge by requiring participants to take photos of their findings or draw a picture inspired by their adventure. Indoor Fun Dance Party : Turn up the music and have a family dance party in your living room. You can even create a playlist of favorite songs and dance styles. Board Game Battles or Card Game Challenges : Engage in strategic thinking and friendly competition with board games or card games. You can even create custom board games or card games tailored to your family's interests. Indoor Obstacle Course : Create a fun and challenging obstacle course using furniture, pillows, and blankets. You can even time yourselves to add an extra element of excitement. Family Yoga or Pilates : A gentle yoga or Pilates session can help improve flexibility, strength, and relaxation. You can find many family-friendly yoga and Pilates routines online or in fitness apps. Remember to stay hydrated and listen to your body . If you're feeling overly full or tired, take a break and rest. The most important thing is to enjoy quality time with your loved ones and find activities that everyone can participate in. Need help getting started on a fitness routine? Schedule an appointment with Agape Physical Therapy today to learn how our experienced physical therapists can help you reach your fitness goals. Schedule an appointment today!
October 22, 2024
Knee pain is a common complaint that can significantly impact your daily life. One of the most prevalent causes of knee pain is patellar tendonitis, also known as jumper's knee. This condition occurs when the tendon that connects your kneecap to your shinbone becomes inflamed or irritated. While patellar tendonitis is a common culprit, there are other knee pain conditions that can benefit from physical therapy . Understanding Knee Pain Knee pain can arise from various factors, including: Injuries : Strains, sprains, and tears of the ligaments, tendons, or muscles surrounding the knee. Overuse : Repetitive activities that put stress on the knee joint, such as running, jumping, or squatting. Arthritis : Degenerative conditions like osteoarthritis that cause inflammation and cartilage breakdown. Other conditions : Bursitis, meniscus tears, and fractures. The Role of Physical Therapy Physical therapy is an effective approach to managing knee pain. Experienced physical therapists at Agapé Physical Therapy can accurately diagnose the underlying cause of your discomfort and develop a personalized treatment plan to address your specific needs. Common Physical Therapy Techniques for Knee Pain: Aquatic Therapy : This low-impact therapy involves performing exercises in a warm pool , reducing stress on the knee joint and improving range of motion. 4 of our 6 Rochester locations include aquatic therapy. Brockport has an inground pool with an underwater treadmill. Penfield , Gates , and Webster have Hydro Tanks where you walk into an enclosed treadmill that fills with water to approximately waist height. Stretching : Stretching exercises help to improve flexibility and reduce muscle tension around the knee joint. There are many benefits of stretching, and each location has plenty of equipment to assist with learning how to properly elongate tight muscles. Our trained physical therapist will also perform manual stretching techniques as needed. Strengthening : Strengthening exercises target the muscles that support the knee, enhancing stability and reducing pain. You might be surprised by the amount of strengthening that can be done to reduce knee pain. Physical therapists often look below the knee at the ankle and above the knee at the hip and determine if there are weaknesses at any of these areas that could be affecting your knee pain. By addressing these weaknesses, the knee pain can often times be reduced. Manual Therapy : Techniques such as massage and mobilization can help to reduce inflammation, improve joint mobility, and alleviate pain. Many locations also offer instrument assisted soft tissue massage (IASTM), active release technique (ART), and cupping as a part of therapy for pain relief around the knee. Blood Flow Restriction : This technique involves applying a band to the thigh to restrict blood flow while performing low-intensity exercises. This can help build muscle strength and improve function. Agapé Physical Therapy uses AirBands , which is safe and effective. AirBands calibrate to the individual and determine the optimal percent occlusion. This is much more effective and specific than using generic bands for BFR. Pneumatic Compression Device : All of our locations also offer the usage of the Game Ready system. This is an ice compression machine with a specialized cuff to support the thigh or knee. Our Chili location also has the newest model of the Game Ready which has the option of ice and heat alternating to provide contrast therapy. This type of therapy can create long lasting relief by reducing swelling and inflammation in the knee. Alter G Anti- Gravity Treadmill : All six of our locations also have antigravity treadmills . These treadmills can unload body weight up to 80%. This means that you can begin walking with less pressure on the knee and hip joints. These treadmills also can be used for standing balance and other exercises that would be beneficial to do while unweighted. It provides similar benefits like aquatic therapy but is more useful in a session where a person does not want to get wet. Why Choose Agapé Physical Therapy? At Agapé Physical Therapy, we are committed to providing comprehensive and personalized care for individuals experiencing knee pain. Our experienced therapists offer a wide range of treatment options, including those mentioned above, to address your specific needs. We believe in a holistic approach to rehabilitation, focusing on both physical and functional outcomes. Schedule Your Appointment Today If you are suffering from knee pain, don't hesitate to schedule a consultation with our physical therapists at Agapé Physical Therapy. We can help you understand the root cause of your discomfort and develop a tailored treatment plan to get you back on your feet. Schedule a visit to Agapé Physical Therapy today!
September 27, 2024
As the leaves change and the temperatures drop, it's important to take steps to prevent falls, especially for older adults. Falls can lead to serious injuries, such as broken bones and head trauma. Fortunately, physical therapy can play a crucial role in improving your strength and balance, reducing your risk of falls. Why Falls Happen Several factors can contribute to falls, including: Muscle weakness : As we age, our muscles naturally lose strength, making it more difficult to maintain balance. Oftentimes, older adults are not as active as they once were, and muscles can tend to atrophy which means that they get smaller. Prolonged sitting can then lead to tightness in the front of the hips and weakness in the backs of the hips. The glute muscles on the backs of the hips are one of the most important muscle groups for maintaining balance. Poor balance : Reduced balance can lead to tripping or stumbling, especially on uneven surfaces. One easy test to try at home is to stand on one leg for as long as you can. If you can hold balance for 10 seconds, you are in a low fall risk category. However, if it is less than 3, you are in a high risk category. This makes sense because every time we walk, we stand on one leg for a short amount of time. If we are able to maintain that single leg balance, then walking will be less difficult and balance will become easier. Vision problems : Impaired vision can make it challenging to navigate your surroundings and avoid obstacles. Depth perception can also affect balance and cause it to be more challenging to go up and down curbs or climb stairs. It is important to see an eye doctor regularly as vision also changes as we age. Cataracts and glaucoma are 2 things that can cause blurred vision that the eye doctor will check at your visit. Medications : Certain medications can cause dizziness, lightheadedness, or drowsiness, increasing the risk of falls. It is important to have medications frequently analyzed by either your primary care provider or a pharmacist. This could help prevent falls looking at medication interactions. Also, talk to your doctor if you are increasing a dosage of medication and begin to feel increased dizziness or lightheadedness. Medical conditions : Health conditions such as arthritis, stroke, or Parkinson's disease can affect balance and mobility. These conditions often affect one side of the body more than the other, making it challenging to maintain equilibrium and walk without difficulty. This asymmetry can increase the risk of falls, as the body's weight distribution is uneven, and the ability to compensate for instability is compromised. How Physical Therapy Can Help Doctors of Physical Therapy at Agapé Physical Therapy can provide a comprehensive program to improve strength, balance, and overall functional ability. Here's how it can help reduce your risk of falls: Strength training : Physical therapists can design targeted exercises to strengthen the muscles in your legs, core, and upper body, improving your stability and reducing the risk of falls. Balance exercises : Balance training helps to improve your body's ability to maintain equilibrium, even on uneven surfaces. This can involve activities such as standing on one leg, walking on a small balance beam, or using a balance board for ankle strengthening. Functional training : Functional exercises mimic everyday activities, such as walking, climbing stairs, or getting in and out of a chair. This helps to improve your overall mobility and reduce the risk of falls in real-world situations. Fall risk assessment : Physical therapists can assess your individual fall risk and identify areas where you may need to improve. Home safety evaluation : Your physical therapist can provide guidance on making your home safer, including removing tripping hazards like rugs and installing grab bars. Take Action Today Don't wait until a fall occurs to take preventative measures. Physical therapy can help you improve your strength, balance, and overall well-being, reducing your risk of falls and enhancing your quality of life. Schedule Your Appointment To learn more about how physical therapy can help you prevent falls, contact Agapé Physical Therapy at one of our six Rochester locations . Our experienced therapists are dedicated to providing personalized care tailored to your individual needs. Schedule a visit to Agapé Physical Therapy today!
September 19, 2024
Parkinson's disease is a progressive neurological disorder that affects movement. While there's no cure, physical therapy can significantly improve quality of life. At Agapé Physical Therapy , we specialize in helping individuals with Parkinson's regain their independence and enhance their overall well-being. Understanding Parkinson's Disease Parkinson's disease occurs when nerve cells in the brain that produce dopamine, a neurotransmitter essential for movement, begin to deteriorate. This leads to symptoms like: Tremors Stiffness Slowed movements Poor balance Difficulty swallowing Reduced speaking volume The Role of Physical Therapy Physical therapy plays a crucial role in managing Parkinson's disease by: Slowing symptom progression : Regular exercise can help protect nerve function. Improving mobility : Targeted exercises can enhance balance, gait, and overall movement. Providing education : Our therapists offer guidance on managing the disease and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Creating personalized programs : We tailor exercise plans to meet your specific needs and goals. Boxing for Parkinson’s Disease Boxing is a popular type of exercise that utilizes the mechanics of the sport to combat symptoms related to Parkinson's disease, such as balance and coordination deficits, stiffness, tremors, and soft voice syndrome. This is accomplished with movements such as: Punching a heavy bag : Helps by generating power and improving spine, shoulder, and hip mobility. Resistance Training : Building strength throughout the body. Aerobic Training : Improving cardiovascular endurance and activity tolerance. Stretching : Allow for your joints and muscles to move with increased ease. Footwork : Improve balance and coordination in standing and walking. LSVT BIG: A Powerful Therapy The Lee Silverman Voice Treatment BIG (LSVT BIG) program is a specialized approach to physical therapy for individuals with Parkinson's. It focuses on increasing the amplitude of movement, helping patients move with greater ease and efficiency. Benefits of LSVT BIG: Improved balance and coordination Increased walking speed Reduced risk of falls Enhanced ability to perform daily activities Improved quality of life Why Choose Agapé Physical Therapy? At Agapé Physical Therapy, we are committed to providing compassionate and effective care for individuals with Parkinson's disease. Our therapists are trained in LSVT BIG and have a deep understanding of the condition. We work closely with our patients to develop personalized treatment plans that address their unique needs. Parkinson's disease can be challenging, but with the right physical therapy approach, individuals can significantly improve their quality of life. At Agapé Physical Therapy, we are dedicated to helping you regain your independence and live a fulfilling life. Schedule a consultation today to learn more about how physical therapy can help you with Parkinson's disease.
A small swimming pool in a room with a calendar on the wall
August 30, 2024
Did you know that Agapé Physical Therapy has four locations with pools? Brockport has an inground pool equipped with a 6 foot deep end, a space to stand and exercise, as well as an underwater treadmill. Gates , Webster , and Penfield are equipped with HydroWorx 300 freestanding underwater treadmills that allow for individual aquatic therapy sessions. Aquatic physical therapy is a specialized form of rehabilitation that provides a unique environment with many benefits. It can help individuals recovering from injuries, chronic conditions such as fibromyalgia , or seeking to improve their overall fitness and health. How Does Aquatic Physical Therapy Work? The warm water in the aquatic therapy pool provides several advantages. First, it reduces the impact on joints, making it ideal for those with arthritis , joint pain, or recent surgeries. Second, the buoyancy of the water helps support the body, making it easier to move and exercise without feeling overwhelmed by gravity. Third, the resistance of the water provides a gentle yet effective way to build strength and improve cardiovascular health.
A woman is helping a man stretch his legs on a pilates mat.
August 14, 2024
At Agapé Physical Therapy , we believe in the transformative power of physical therapy. We go beyond just treating injuries; we strive to cultivate an environment of healing and growth, guided by the principle of agapé love. Agapé love is a selfless, unconditional love that transcends emotions and desires. It's a love that compels us to act in the best interests of others, and that's exactly what we aim to do for our patients. We listen attentively to your needs and concerns, creating personalized treatment plans that promote your recovery, well-being, and optimal physical performance. Our Vision: Recovery, Wellness, and Performance Our vision at Agapé Physical Therapy is threefold: Recovery : We are committed to helping you recover from injuries and regain your full range of motion and function. Our experienced therapists utilize a variety of techniques to address your specific needs, from manual therapy to therapeutic exercise. We have the most up to date equipment to help you recover including anti-gravity treadmills at all locations , aquatic therapy pools at 4 locations, and golf simulators at 2 of our locations. Wellness : We believe that physical therapy is an essential part of overall wellness. We don't just treat injuries; we help you develop the tools and knowledge you need to maintain a healthy lifestyle and prevent future problems. We can help you improve balance, increase strength, or start a general conditioning program. Performance : Whether you're a weekend warrior or a competitive athlete, we can help you achieve your peak performance. Our therapists can design programs to improve your strength, flexibility, and balance , allowing you to move with greater confidence and efficiency. Many of our facilities include squat racks with weights to help you build strength to achieve maximal benefit from your physical therapy sessions.  Listening and Caring: A Personalized Approach At Agapé Physical Therapy, we understand that every patient is unique. We take the time to listen to your individual story, your goals, and your concerns. We don't believe in a one-size-fits-all approach to care. Our therapists will work closely with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses your specific needs and helps you achieve your desired outcomes. Are you ready to experience the Agapé difference? We typically have appointment availability within a week. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and start your journey to recovery, wellness, and performance.
A boy is sitting at a desk with books , pencils , glasses and an apple.
August 11, 2024
Fall is on the way. So are school buses and students carrying…backpacks. You might not think much about those bags full of books, pencils, crayons and computers, but physical therapists are. Why Backpacks Matter Students will always have things to carry between home and school. A backpack is a great way to do that, but if they're too heavy, they can cause problems. Research has shown that carrying a heavy backpack changes students' posture, walking speed, step length and more. Unsurprisingly, we also know that as students walk greater distances and become more fatigued, all of these changes get worse. These changes can lead to neck pain, back pain, or other musculoskeletal issues. How Heavy Is Too Heavy? How much weight a student can safely carry is directly affected by how much they weigh. Studies have shown that changes in posture and performance start to occur when the weight of the backpack is 10% of the student's body weight. The consensus among experts is that students should not carry more than 15% of their body weight in a backpack. Unfortunately, most of the data show that more than half of students are carrying more than the recommended load. 5 Tips for Parents and Students To reduce backpack weight and help your student avoid pain, here are a few tips: Plan ahead - Each night, go through the backpack and remove items not needed the next day. Likewise, make sure your student isn't bringing things home that they won't need that night. Use your locker - Planning ahead can help remove extra weight between home and school. The locker can lighten the load during the school day. By making a few stops at their locker, students can avoid carrying extra loads around during the school day. Pack right - Heavier items should be placed close to the student's back and lighter items further away. Wear it right - Using both shoulder straps, and front or hip straps if you have them to help distribute the load evenly. The bottom of the pack should be even with the bottom of the low back. Packs worn too high or low exaggerate postural changes and can restrict movement. Pick the right pack - If you're shopping for a new backpack, look for one with two straps rather than one. A chest strap and hip belt can help distribute the load. The pack should also be sized appropriately - no longer than the student's torso. You can't control what your student needs for school. However, you can use these tips to help reduce the load your student carries, and to make sure that they carry it right. If your student is having pain in their back, neck, or anywhere else, give Agape Physical Therapy a call today or schedule online . We are here to help!
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