SSM Health Physical Therapy - Wildwood Athletic Center

09/25/2025

Did you know falls are the leading cause of injury in adults over 65? More than 14 million adults reported falling in 2020, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

It's fall prevention week, and we wanted to share some tips on how to safely use your rollator walker.

09/24/2025

Linda Adams is typically quick on her feet, actively participating in 5k and 10k races. A member of Orangetheory Fitness and regular class participant, she prides herself on her balance and fitness. So when a little one knocked her down from behind while she was on a simple walk, really surprised her.

If it had been up to Linda, she would have started physical therapy much sooner, but she was under strict orders to not move her leg. But once she was given the go-ahead, she walked to the nearest center, SSM Health Physical Therapy - Des Peres.

"I hobbled in with my brace on, I couldn't bend my knee, stand up from a chair, do steps, raise my leg and could only walk short distances," Linda said.

Linda is motivated to return to running, so she has been working very closely with Physical Therapist Angie Burgess. They have been strengthening her quads, glutes and hips by using the stationary bike, the elliptical and balancing on one foot and leg. Now, working on squats and lunges to feel normal again — something she wasn't sure she would ever be able to do again.

Angie has been able to tap into Linda's motivation to help her get back on her feet. Angie also takes into account Linda's strengths and weaknesses. Linda knows that she doesn’t want to get re-injured, so when she's trying to decide what exercise to do, she hears Angie's voice in her head, reminding her to slow down and take an easier route on a hike.

With Angie's help, Linda is confident she will be able to run for the sixth time in the annual Webster/Kirkwood Turkey Day Trot.

09/17/2025

Are your legs hurting while running? Shin splints are no joke. Check out our latest carousel for a few useful tips to recognize and self-manage shin splints.

Still having issues or have additional needs? Schedule your evaluation today. ⁣

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09/14/2025

September is Prostate Cancer Awareness Month. Prostate cancer and its treatment can not only cause urinary leakage, but it can also impact energy and stamina, physical function, bone health, balance, muscle strength, pelvic floor muscle strength, sexual function and overall quality of life.

You don't have to just live with these side effects. And you don't have to go through it alone. Cancer rehabilitation and pelvic health therapy can help you regain control and restore confidence.

09/13/2025

September is Healthy Aging Month! It's never too late to make positive changes in your life. If you are looking to move better and try new activities, consider calling your closest physical therapy center today.

We are here to help you.

09/11/2025

Never Forget.

09/10/2025

Same great care, new name!

Across All Ages Physical Therapy is now SSM Health Physical Therapy - Breese, Illinois. We offer a range of services, including physical therapy, orthopedic rehabilitation, sports medicine, pelvic health, amputee rehabilitation, fall prevention programs, pre-/post-operative care, work conditioning and work hardening.

Click here to learn more and request an appointment: https://bit.ly/46dtQbA

09/10/2025

At 18 months old, Charlotte "Charlie" Ruhnke's mom, Taylor, started noticing her daughter hated being dirty, avoided certain textures and foods and bathtime had turned into a nightmare. To top it off, she would be awake from midnight to 4 a.m.

Although Charlie was a happy child, she had a difficult time being in groups of kids. She wouldn't touch grass, sand or snow. She had a hard time looking at yogurt, pudding and paint. Soft things made her gag.

Referred by their doctor, Charlie started coming to Select Kids Pediatric Therapy at UnityPoint Health Marshalltown with Pediatric Occupational Therapist Cobey Brau. At first, the family was unsure and nervous about where to start. But, Cobey could see from the girl's first appointment that we could help.

Eventually, Charlie was diagnosed with sensory processing disorder and, with the help of Cobey, they've worked on handling some of her primary sensory triggers.

Fairly quickly, Charlie was playing in the water table with Cobey, getting her nails painted and finding ways to process her sensory needs such as using sensory swings.

"As a mother, I gained so much knowledge and insight to be able to help and understand my daughter," Taylor shared.

When Taylor felt hopeless, Cobey was able to provide guidance and walk her through how to better understand Charlie.

Taylor was proud to share with Cobey that Charlie is sleeping through the night, walking barefoot in the grass and now loves taking baths. While she still may struggle with food aversions and loud noises, the family now has the resources to work through them together and they know where to find the support, if they need it from Cobey.

"She feels amazing, watching her personality bloom and enjoying all of these things with a smile and excitement has been amazing," Taylor said.

09/08/2025

Today is World Physical Therapy Day! We're proud to celebrate the life-changing power of physical therapy that helps patients recover, stay strong and get back to what they love. Thank you to all of our physical therapists for making a difference every day.

09/06/2025

Vestibular conditions affect your inner ear and brain, making simple movements difficult or even overwhelming.

Check out our latest blog to understand the signs and effective treatment tactics to help you regain balance. https://bit.ly/3HK71Ef

09/05/2025

79-year old JoAnn Hanes needed right hip surgery in April of last year. Post surgery, she was unable to walk, had no strength and was limited in performing daily tasks.

At first, JoAnn tried in-home physical and occupational therapy, but it didn't take. It was then suggested she try going to rehabilitation two times per week. That's when she started seeing Physical Therapist Samantha Maniago at our Hazelwood, Missouri center.

When she first began her journey, JoAnn wasn't necessarily in pain, but she was still very weak. Samantha compiled an individualized treatment plan for JoAnn and as sessions went by, her strength began to increase.

After over seven months of physical therapy, JoAnn can now walk without the fear of falling. She's still restricted, but is feeling much better.

"Samantha has been my hero," said JoAnn. "She was so patient, kind and thoughtful and came up with great ideas. She never gave up on me and she made the difference."

Check out the photos to see a timeline of JoAnn's progression!

09/03/2025

Injured? Physical rehabilitation isn't the end. It's the upgrade.

Read our latest blog to learn how to supercharge your recovery.

You’re an athlete and, suddenly, you’re injured. Play it right, and your rehabilitation can turn into a competitive advantage.