My biggest goal in the clinic is to teach my clients how to achieve the best results outside of the clinic. Some of my earliest introductions to patients are the following products, intended for frequent and consistent use at home so that in-clinic, we can focus on teaching new movement patterns, strengthening, and more. Here are the Top 5 Products* I love to recommend in the clinic.
If a patient mentions excessive pain or swelling in a joint, muscle tension areas such as the low back or poor range of motion in joints like the shoulder, I start to consider Kinesiotaping as an initial option for pain relief. After screening a patient for adhesive allergies, I lead a short demo showing how it works with safe removal tips. Starting this early facilitates patient independence with management of swelling and pain, and works well as a desensitization techinque. Hampton Adams brand is fantastic and can last 2-3 days at least, withstand regular wear and showering, on most patients.
The Theracane is one of those pieces of equipment that might look archaic, but can work wonders with proper use. Its curved hook enables users to reach tight muscles that are tough to reach - think along and in between shoulder blades, thoracic spine and low back. The knobs are especially useful for releasing muscular tension in the upper traps and other tight neck musculature that would otherwise require uncomfortable self-contortion to reach. I will demo this for my patients who just can't seem to be able to access the areas they need to treat independently, and my patients with fibromyalgia rave about it.
Muscle Roller- These are a great alternative to a classic rolling pin you would use for baking - considerably lighter and easier to position on sore muscles. I recommend these to my patients with lower extremity muscular trigger points, or muscle knots, especially for the quads, calves and hamstrings. My clients feel an immediate difference in their muscles once they start to use, and consistent use allows them to start learning more natural and preferred movements patterns that I teach in- clinic.
Foam Balance Pad- This is easily one of the most versatile tools. Initially, I used pads like this a lot for static and dynamic balance training; for my capable patients looking for a challenge, I recommend this foam pad as a way they can continue to work on balance, functional activities, and more. What I have found over the years is that many people benefit from a lightweight, comfortable pad that would act has a portable seat cushion in order to elevate their hips higher than their knees, and enable my older adults to more safely perform sit to stands and transfers while they continue to strengthen with me. Lastly, this can always act as a kneeling pad for household chores or even out in the garden, especially if no longer needed for balance activities or hip elevation. A 3-in-1 tool to say the least!
At the end of tough sessions, I will offer cold packs for the last few minutes to decrease inflammation at the joint or area in question in order to reduce soreness or any residual symptoms. Even at an Initial Evaluation, I discuss the value of cold therapies as some of the most effective and conservative forms of pain and inflammation control. While we use a range of cold pack brands, I like this one for its ability to be well-strapped to tougher areas to cool, such as shoulders and even lumbar spines.
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