OCS Physical Therapy Newsletter
March 2021
More than Madness happening in March!
National Women's History Month
Women's History Month and Physical Therapy
Mary McMillan (the mother of Physical Therapy) was a well educated woman in the early 1900's that brought physical therapy techniques from Europe to the United States. She was the first US Army "Reconstruction Aide" and later founded the national organization of the American Physical Therapy Association. Check out her amazing life story in the link below (some great images as well).
Lynda Woodruff (former Tar Heel professor) brought diversity to light in the profession of physical therapy. Lynda was the "first" throughout her life. In her early education, college education, and professional career, Lynda overcame adversity and opened doors for other to follow. Check out her legacy at APTA.org in the link below.
National Cerebral Palsy Month
Physical Therapist Erin is taking it to the hoop for cerebral Palsy awareness
Cerebral palsy (CP) affects muscle tone, movement, and motor skills. CP is caused by abnormal brain development or damage to the developing brain that affects a child's ability to control his or her muscles. Movements can be unpredictable; muscles can be stiff or tight and sometimes children can have shaky movements or tremors. CP can be very mild such as weakness in one arm or it can be more severe where there is almost complete lack of movement. CP affects each student differently but the physical therapist at your school can help ensure access to the student’s educational environment. Some may need specialized equipment where others may just need a little extra time maneuvering through the school environment. Our job as a team is to ensure a safe and pleasant learning environment for each and every child.
If you have any questions about students with Cerebral Palsy, please contact the physical therapist assigned to your school. (Click the PT icon at the bottom of this newsletter for your assigned PT's contact information)
Helpful Links to better understand our friends with Cerebral Palsy
National Nutrition Month
Physical Therapist Carrie takes point on the Importance of Proper Nutrition for Kids
Proper nutrition is important at every age but especially in young children as they grow and develop. Your child needs proper nutrition to grow up healthy and strong and to avoid certain health conditions such as:
- diabetes
- heart disease
- high blood pressure
Healthful eating has also shown to:
- stabilize energy
- improve mindset
- level-out mood swings
- help prevent mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, and ADHD
Teaching your kids about nutrition also helps establish a foundation for healthy eating habits that they can apply throughout their life. The “Dietary Guidelines for Americans” recommends that children and adults eat a diet consisting of lean proteins, a variety of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat dairy products. Limiting “added” and “refined” sugars, refined grains, sodium, trans fat, saturated fat, and food low in nutrients that your children consume is also important (we’re talking about YOU, Cheese Puffs 😉).
Similarly, making sure they drink enough water and maintain proper hydration is also a key element to good health and development. While there is not a specific recommendation for the amount of water needed, they do recommend giving children water throughout the day…and not just when they are thirsty!
There are many ways to develop and support healthy eating habits in children. Getting them involved in your food choices, modeling a good diet, making small shifts to healthier foods, and making mealtime and overall nutrition a priority in your household are all good options. Start early and continue to build a foundation of good eating habits and proper nutrition in your household. It’s good for the whole family!
Helpful Links to support proper nutrition and healthy habits
We still need a little Madness!
Physical Therapist Pati provides a slam dunk snack for March Madness!
When I want a tasty and nutritious snack one of the first things I think of is homemade hummus. Hummus is a very popular middle Eastern dip and spread. I spread it on pita bread, dip veggies in it or put it in sandwiches. It is super easy to make, inexpensive AND it has some great health benefits.
- Packed with plant-based protein
- 3.5-ounce serving has approximately 8 grams of protein and less than 175 calories.
- High in fiber which can improve digestive health.
- Contains hearth health ingredients that may reduce heart disease risk.
- Great for those with intolerances. It is naturally gluten, nut and dairy free.
Here’s one of my favorite recipes for you to try.
Physical Therapists...
- Pursue best practices to ensure students receive highly effective care specific to their needs,
- Endeavor to see students become as independent as possible by maximizing their abilities and strengths,
- Empower students in seeking ways to participate in lifelong education, vocation, and community activities to the best of the student's abilities.
OCS Phyical Therapy
Email: roger.hammel@onslow.k12.nc.us
Website: https://www.onslow.k12.nc.us/Page/40842
Phone: 910-787-1544