Exemplar Physical Therapy

04/14/2020

Working From Home?

In response to the coronavirus pandemic, many states have issued a ‘shelter in place’ order which has forced many workers to work from home. In many cases our home office set-ups are not ideal or as in the picture, non-existent. We are sitting for longer periods working, binge watching our favorite shows and movies, reading and surfing the web.

Prolonged sitting, especially in awkward postures, can lead to various neck, shoulder and back discomfort. In addition, this sedentary lifestyle may also be causing leg aches, nerve sensations and swelling. More ideal home workstation set-ups, posture education, gentle stretching and exercise may be what you are looking for to improve your sitting tolerance. But more importantly incorporating some gentle strengthening and flexibility exercises into your working from home routine may also be helpful because it could improve the release of endorphins, these are the natural feel good hormones in the body.

( see additional posts for exercise tips and work from home set up suggestions)

04/14/2020

Introducing Physical Therapy via Telerehabilitation (Telehealth)

Given the recent outbreak of coronavirus (COVID-19), many people are unable to attend their regularly scheduled medical appointments like physical therapy due to the state of Illinois’ ‘shelter in place’ order. In addition, the shutdown of local gyms and fitness facilities limits options for exercise to prevent physical decline and subsequent health issues. Those that experience the onset of new musculoskeletal pain are concerned about visiting their local emergency rooms and doctor’s offices for conditions that are not emergent and could further slow access to care for those experiencing COVID-19 symptoms. Hence, Exemplar Physical Therapy has implemented a Telerehabilitation (Telehealth) program to evaluate and manage these individuals’ loss of function of their muscles and joints via virtual therapy sessions from the comfort of their home or office.

What is Telerehabilitation (Telehealth)?

Telerehabilitation (Telehealth) allows those who do not wish to leave their house an opportunity to access a healthcare professional (such as a physician, physician assistant, nurse, midwife, physical therapist, occupational therapist) via a video conference or telephone call. Telerehabilitation access enables a physical therapist the ability to visualize and speak directly to their patients as they would for an in-clinic visit with the purpose of evaluation, progressing a current treatment plan, triage new symptoms, and assist in developing an exercise program to address your individual issues and prevent decline. Telerehabilitation not only ensures patients are receiving necessary physical therapy care, but also assists with reducing the overall health burden on hospitals and doctors’ offices.

Virtual therapy allows people of all ages to safely keep moving and address physical problems from the comfort of their own home. Unfortunately, injuries and pain do not go away during a pandemic, but Exemplar Physical Therapy is working to find ways to help.

Is Telerehabilitation (Telehealth) covered by my insurance?

Previously Telehealth was not covered by most medical insurances, however many insurance companies are now expanding their coverage to include Telerehabilitation or Telehealth coverage to improve healthcare access in response to the COVID-19 outbreak.

If you are interested in learning about Telerehabilitation at Exemplar Physical Therapy, please contact us via email at info@exemplarphysicaltheapychicago.com or call us at (773) 516-4146.

05/31/2019

Open House Pics!

05/26/2019