April is Occupational Therapy Month

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Every day, occupational therapists empower individuals to overcome challenges and reclaim their independence. This Occupational Therapy Month, we celebrate the incredible work of occupational therapists (OTs) and certified occupational therapist assistants (COTAs) across the country who inspire hope and change lives. From regaining movement after surgery to rebuilding strength after a major medical event, the impact of occupational therapy is undeniable.

At Tx:Team, our occupational therapy clinicians are dedicated to helping people achieve their personal and functional goals, no matter the obstacles. Their expertise, compassion, and patient-centered approach make a profound difference in the lives of those they serve.

For one patient, recovering from thumb joint replacement surgery seemed daunting after two weeks in a cast left their hand stiff and immobile. With guidance from Josh Eppinger, OTR/L, at Frederick Health Physical Therapy and Sports Rehab Aspen Ridge, they progressed through each recovery stage, gaining confidence as they regained movement. This patient shared, “Josh pushed me in a good way. He knew what I should be able to do and kept me goal oriented. I did what he asked and trusted in the process, and I was very happy. I was pleasantly surprised by how caring Josh was. I did not feel like it was a factory-type therapy like I have been at.” Through dedicated therapy and prescribed exercises at home, they regained full mobility, returning to work on their farm pain-free.

For others, occupational therapy provides a path to reclaim independence after life-changing medical events. Following brain surgery, a patient working with Erin Winters, OTR/L, at Putnam County Hospital struggled with left-sided weakness and difficulty walking. Initially hesitant, they were surprised by how much simple exercises could improve their strength and mobility. “I put myself into a box and avoided doing things I might fail at, but my therapists figured out where I was at and how hard I needed to be pushed.” With repetition and patience, they noticed significant progress when they could take their dogs for walks again and regained the independence they feared losing.

Stories like these highlight the life-changing impact of occupational therapy. At Tx:Team, our OTs and COTAs work every day to help individuals regain function, build confidence, and achieve their goals. Whether it’s recovering from surgery, adapting to a new way of life, or regaining strength, our therapists are committed to guiding patients every step of the way.

This Occupational Therapy Month, we celebrate the dedication and expertise of our OTs and COTAs and the resilience of the patients they support. Together, we are truly inspiring hope and changing lives.

Tx:Team Announces Sale of Senior Living Division to FOX Rehabilitation

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We are pleased to announce that FOX Rehabilitation (“FOX”), the nation’s leading provider of Geriatric House Calls™, has acquired the senior living division of Tx:Team in Alabama, Georgia, South Carolina, and Tennessee. As part of this transition, over 50 of our associates will be joining FOX, a company known for its dedication to patient-centered care and clinical excellence.

“We have known FOX Rehabilitation for many years, and we have tremendous respect for them and their approach to working with seniors,” said Scott Benedict, CEO of Tx:Team. “It was clear from our earliest conversations that they were the right partner for this transaction.”

Carroll Nelligan, COO of Tx:Team, adds, “Caring for seniors has been part of our DNA since Tx:Team was founded in 1983.  Our success has always been rooted in attracting and developing therapists who are clinically talented and fiercely dedicated to improving the lives of their patients. We are excited about the opportunities that FOX Rehabilitation will provide for these wonderful clinicians and the seniors they will continue to care for every day.”

Looking ahead, Tx:Team remains focused on expanding our employer-based clinics and hospital partnerships.  While we continue to evolve, one thing remains constant: our people are the heart of everything we do. This commitment to patient-centered care has been our foundation since 1983, and it will continue to drive our success in the years to come.

More information on FOX Rehab: https://foxrehab.org/press/fox-rehabilitation-acquires-div-of-txteam/

The Importance of Rehabilitation in the Cancer Journey

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Cancer arrives like a sudden storm, altering the landscape of life in an instant. It does not come quietly. It disrupts, demands, and leaves no one untouched. Yet even in its wake, there is a path forward. Rehabilitation is the bridge between what was and what can be, guiding patients toward renewed strength, movement, and hope.

At Tx:Team, we have felt the weight of this journey in a deeply personal way. Two of our own leaders have walked this path and their experiences serve as a reminder that the impact of this disease extends far beyond the individual. It reaches families, friends, and entire communities. Their resilience deepens our commitment to compassionate, comprehensive care.

Everyone remembers the day they were told, “You have cancer.” Once those words are spoken, life changes in an instant. Cancer patients undergo a variety of treatments, including surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy. While these treatments all share the same goal of achieving remission, they also come with significant side effects. Some of these effects are temporary, while others linger even after the celebratory ringing of the bell. As one survivor shared, “No one really tells you about the long-lasting side effects. You are so focused on the immediate treatment plan and fighting this disease that you really don’t think about what comes after.”

The side effects of cancer treatments—fatigue, loss of strength, mobility challenges, cognitive difficulties, and issues with speech or swallowing—can persist long after treatment ends. This is where physical, occupational, and speech therapists collaborate as a unified team. Each therapist brings their expertise to create a personalized, holistic rehabilitation plan, nurturing the body, mind, and spirit. Together, they offer a comprehensive approach to recovery, helping patients reclaim their strength, independence, and quality of life.

In the face of cancer’s challenges, rehabilitation offers a vital path to recovery. It is a journey of resilience, supported by skilled professionals who understand the full scope of healing. At Tx:Team, we are honored to be part of that journey, walking alongside cancer survivors as they reclaim their strength and embrace the future with hope.

Tx:Team Launches Cancer Care Program

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Tx:Team is proud to announce the launch of our Cancer Care Program, designed to support individuals at every stage of their cancer journey—from diagnosis and treatment to survivorship.

Cancer occurs when abnormal cells in the body grow uncontrollably, forming tumors. While some tumors are benign, others can be malignant, spreading to different parts of the body and causing significant harm. There are over 100 types of cancer, including lung, colon, and breast cancer. Although life-saving treatments are crucial, they often come with challenging side effects such as pain, weakness, reduced mobility, speech difficulties, and swallowing problems. These hurdles can make daily tasks overwhelming. That’s where physical, occupational, and speech therapy play a crucial role, enhancing recovery and improving quality of life.

Tx:Team created a program for everyone because cancer knows no boundaries. It can touch any life, at any age, at any time. Every journey is unique, and we focus on what matters most to you. Whether it’s returning to hobbies, cherishing time with loved ones, or finding joy in daily life, we’re here to empower you with the tools and support to make it possible.

Our expert team of physical therapists, occupational therapists, and speech-language pathologists collaborate to address a wide range of needs:

  • Physical Therapy: Focuses on reducing cancer-related fatigue, restoring strength, improving balance, and rebuilding endurance to help patients regain mobility and energy.
  • Occupational Therapy: Assists with managing side effects like neuropathy, joint pain, and lymphedema, teaching techniques for energy conservation and helping patients regain independence in daily activities.
  • Speech Therapy: Supports those facing speech, cognitive, or swallowing difficulties due to cancer or its treatment, offering strategies to maintain communication and nutrition.
  • Lymphedema Therapy: Provides specialized care, including manual lymph drainage, compression therapy, and self-management education to reduce swelling and discomfort.

Our Cancer Care Program offers skilled support throughout all phases of treatment:

  • Preventive: Pre-surgical evaluations, functional assessments, exercise prescriptions, and bioimpedance screenings to prevent lymphedema.
  • Restorative: Therapeutic exercises, neuromuscular re-education, manual therapy, and cognitive rehabilitation to restore function and improve daily living.
  • Supportive: Pain management, patient education, and guidance to manage treatment side effects, with seamless collaboration with the healthcare team.
  • Palliative: Focused on enhancing comfort, managing pain, and improving quality of life.

At the heart of Tx:Team’s Cancer Care Program is a simple belief: recovery isn’t just about surviving—it’s about reclaiming your life. We are dedicated to walking alongside our patients, helping them rediscover strength, confidence, and purpose.

New Year Fitness Goals

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“New Year, New Me”  – Does this sound familiar? The start of a new year is often a time for people to want a fresh start. For some, it may be a fresh start with healthier habits, being more responsible with money, or working to become a better person. Many people welcome the new year as a time to start fresh with a new fitness routine. Whether it be going for a daily walk, trying out a new class at the gym, or starting your marathon training, here are a few tips to help you succeed with your New Year’s fitness resolutions.

  • Start slow. If you are trying a new activity, ease into it to avoid excessive soreness or injury.
  • Make it a habit. Schedule time in your day for exercise when it is convenient for you and put it on your calendar. They say it takes 21 days to form a habit, so don’t give up too soon!
  • Fuel your body. Adequate sleep, healthy diet, and drinking plenty of water are important for effective workouts.
  • Have fun! Choosing an activity you enjoy will help you stick with it. Try a dance class, listening to your favorite music at the gym, or going for a walk/run on a trail with good scenery.
  • Rest is just as important as the work. Our bodies need rest days to recover from exercise, especially if you are performing a new activity or exercising for the first time in a while. Don’t feel guilty if your body needs a rest day – or – scale back your program and try going for a light walk or performing a gentle stretching or yoga routine if you feel you need a break.
  • Buddy up! Grab a friend to try a new class at the gym, ask your spouse to exercise with you, or take your dog for a walk! The buddy system helps us stay accountable.
  • Listen to your body. If you are feeling sore or tired, you may be over doing it and need a little rest or a modification to your program. If you are experiencing any pain – reach out to your Physical Therapist for advice.

Whatever your New Year’s Resolution may be, give yourself some grace and remember to strive for progress not perfection. There is no ‘one size fits all’ program so do what feels best to you and be proud of yourself for taking steps to become a healthier YOU. Now, get up and move your body in a way that feels good!

Sara Sermershein is a Physical Therapist in the Employer Based Setting for Tx:Team.  She has worked in outpatient Physical Therapy for the last six (6) years treating patients of all ages and various orthopedic conditions. She holds certifications in dry needling as well as vestibular and concussion rehab. 

Bundle Up and Stay Busy: The Importance of Staying Engaged in Winter

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As winter sets in, it’s easy to retreat indoors and let routines slip, but staying mentally and socially engaged during the colder months is just as important as physical activity. Keeping your mind sharp and connected can boost cognitive health, reduce stress, and prevent the isolation and seasonal blues that come with shorter days.

For older adults, winter can present additional challenges. The cold weather and reduced social interaction may lead to physical or cognitive decline. Watch for signs of isolation, depression, or a decrease in physical activity, as these can affect overall well-being. Occupational and speech therapy can help older adults stay engaged, maintain independence, and address any changes in their physical or cognitive abilities during the winter months.

Create a Daily Routine

Establishing a daily schedule, even if it’s flexible, can help maintain focus and provide structure during long, dark days. Include time for activities that challenge your mind like the ones listed below.

Explore a New Hobby and Stimulate Your Mind

Take up a new skill or hobby, such as crafting, painting, or playing a musical instrument, and incorporate brain-training activities like crossword puzzles, Sudoku, or memory games. Engaging in both creative and cognitive exercises helps keep your mind sharp and provides therapeutic benefits to support your mental well-being.

Read or Learn Something New

Whether it’s a book, an online course, or an educational podcast, keeping your mind engaged with new information can enhance cognitive function and mental health.

Stay Social

Regularly interact with friends, family, or peers, whether through video calls, in-person meetings, or group chats. Social interaction boosts mood, reduces feelings of loneliness, and helps maintain mental health.

Practice Mindfulness and Meditation

Spend time focusing on the present moment through deep breathing exercises or meditation. These practices help reduce stress and improve mental clarity.

Volunteer or Help Others

Engaging in acts of kindness or volunteering can boost mood and give you a sense of purpose. Helping others provides social connection and can help alleviate feelings of isolation.

Staying active in mind and spirit throughout the winter season is key to maintaining a positive and resilient outlook. These simple steps can help you navigate the colder months with energy, clarity, and a renewed sense of well-being. If you or a loved one are experiencing challenges in maintaining cognitive or physical health this winter, consider exploring the benefits of occupational and speech therapy. Our blogs on debunking myths on occupational therapy and speech therapy are a great starting point to learn about the vast treatments of conditions that OTs and SLPs complete acress the lifespan.

Ask an Expert: How Do I Prevent Hurting My Back When Shoveling Snow?

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Question: How do I prevent hurting my low back when shoveling snow?

Answer: There are several things we can do to prevent low back injury when shoveling. Preparation is key! If you look outside and see snow falling, check the local weather. If it is going to be a prolonged event, you should plan to go out and shovel in phases to decrease the workload. Remember, wet snow is heavy snow.

If you do not own an ergonomic shovel, get one now. This allows you to hold the shovel properly with on hand at the top of the handle and another closer to the shovel blade if you have to lift the snow. Whenever possible, push the snow vs lifting shovels full of snow. If you must lift the shovel, bend at the knees and hips while avoiding the dreaded BLT! This means do not perform the combination of bending/lifting/twisting.

Once again, prevention is key! If you have a history of your back giving you pain with shoveling, go to physical therapy before you are injured. We can perform an assessment and determine where the underlying issues are. We will address strength deficits and provide instruction in core stabilization and proper lifting techniques. Then you can say…LET IT SNOW!

Jennie Gaskill, PTA is an experienced and dedicated physical therapist assistant at Frederick Health Physical Therapy and Sports Rehab in Mt. Airy, Maryland. She earned her Associate’s degree in Physical Therapy Assistant from Carroll Community College and has developed a passion for orthopedics, manual therapy, and sports rehabilitation. Jennie’s passion for helping patients reach their full potential has made her a truly invaluable member of Tx:Team for the past 8 years.

Winter Wellness: Simple Ways to Keep Moving in the Cold

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When the temperature drops, it can be tempting to stay bundled up indoors, but staying active during winter is essential for both your physical and mental well-being. Regular activity boosts your immune system, improves circulation, and helps prevent the stiffness and weight gain that can occur during colder months. Exercise also combats seasonal blues by releasing mood-enhancing endorphins, keeping your spirits high even on the darkest days.

Dress for Success

Wear layers to stay warm, starting with moisture-wicking fabrics close to your skin. Add an insulating layer, and finish with a wind- and water-resistant outer layer. Don’t forget gloves, a hat, and warm socks!

Try Indoor Workouts

Take advantage of indoor activities like yoga, pilates, or strength training. Many online classes and apps make it easy to stay active from the comfort of home.

Embrace Winter Sports

Activities like skiing, snowshoeing, or ice skating can be fun and effective ways to exercise in winter.

Go for a Walk

Walking outdoors, even in colder weather, is an excellent low-impact workout. Stick to cleared pathways, and use shoes with good traction to prevent slips.

Make It Social

Partner up with friends or family for outdoor adventures or group fitness classes. Accountability and companionship can make staying active more enjoyable.

Focus on Everyday Movement

Stay active by incorporating movement into your daily routine, such as taking the stairs, stretching during TV breaks, or doing chores.

By staying active during winter, you’ll not only maintain your physical health but also emerge stronger and more energized when spring arrives! If you are facing challenges that make physical movement difficult, discover how physical therapy can help you overcome these obstacles and achieve your fitness goals. Read our blog on the Transformative Power of Physical Therapy and Fitness to learn how working with a physical therapist can empower your journey to better health.

Ask an Expert: How Can an Occupational Therapist Help Me with CMC Thumb Arthritis?

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Q: What is CMC thumb arthritis?

A: Thumb CMC joint arthritis (also known as basilar joint arthritis, osteoarthritis) is a “wear and tear” injury between a wrist bone and the base of the first thumb bone. Over time, the cartilage wears down and destruction of the bone surfaces occurs. Common symptoms include joint pain that increases with use, swelling, decreased motion, and stiffness. The injury is also more common in women and primarily affects individuals over 45 years old.

Q: How can an occupational therapist help me?

A: There are a variety of ways an occupational therapist can help with this injury. The first thing that can be done is fabrication of a custom splint for the patient to wear each day. By wearing a splint, it will decrease the amount of force on the joint, therefore, decreasing the “wear and tear”. The therapist will also provide exercises which can strengthen the muscles around the thumb to decrease the pain. And finally, the therapist will educate the patient on a variety of adaptive techniques/adaptive equipment that can be used to decrease pain of the involved structures.

 

Josh Eppinger, MOT, OTR/L is an occupational therapist and Certified Hand Therapist at Frederick Health Physical Therapy and Sports Rehab: Aspen Ridge in Frederick, Maryland. He received his Bachelor of Arts in Human Performance and Health and Master of Occupational Therapy from the West Virginia University School of Medicine. Josh’s professional interests include orthopedic injuries to the hand and upper extremity splinting.

The Value of Physical Therapy in Osteoarthritis of the Knee

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Osteoarthritis of the knee is the most common type of osteoarthritis, or OA, in the United States. According to the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA), nearly 12.4 million Americans ages 65 or older suffer from symptoms of knee OA, including morning stiffness, pain during or after activity, discomfort after sitting, knee popping or grinding, swelling, and joint tenderness.

Physical therapy is a proven, effective treatment for knee OA. The goal of treatment is to reduce pain, get you moving again, and help you enjoy life’s little pleasures — whether that’s a walk in the park or dancing at a family gathering.

The APTA’s 2023 report highlighted the cost-effectiveness of treating knee osteoarthritis with physical therapy. They used quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) to measure both how long someone lives and their quality of life, making it easier to compare treatments like reducing pain or improving mobility. On average, physical therapy for knee osteoarthritis provides a net benefit of nearly $14,000 per episode of care, including all the hidden costs of your time, pain, missed life events, and the dollars paid for services. Compared to steroid injections, patients who received physical therapy had a 0.07 higher QALY, with only a slight increase in medical costs.

Physical therapy offers patients valuable benefits, including knowledge to help reduce the risk of opioid addiction and cost savings by avoiding invasive steroid injections and surgeries. Additionally, it provides long-term advantages such as improved mobility, balance, strength, and flexibility. These enhancements contribute to better overall health and a lower risk of developing conditions that may require additional healthcare services in the future.

Your physical therapist can refer you to an orthopedic surgeon to discuss your options for dealing with knee OA. If you choose surgery after consulting with healthcare professionals, physical therapy plays a crucial role in both preparation and recovery, as noted by the APTA. Pre-surgery physical therapy (“prehab”) helps improve strength and flexibility, setting you up for a smoother recovery. After surgery, your physical therapist will create a personalized program based on your condition and goals to help restore function and mobility.

If you’re dealing with knee OA, give physical therapy a try. It’s an investment in getting back to the things you love without pain.