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In today’s special blog on improving your balance, I will share with you some very powerful principles and strategies you can use. Some will work over time, and others almost instantly. This blog will show you how to actually fight back against balance problems for no cost whatsoever, other than your time. Most people who read this are shocked to discover that there is a definite way to gain life-altering improvement and education regarding your balance without needing a referral from a doctor or speaking one word to your insurance company. So, my challenge to you as you read to this: as you are gaining the knowledge I am going to share, please take some time every day to try out at least one of these 100% natural strategies. It won't take long, and most of them won’t cost you anything but a few minutes of your time. I think you'll be pleasantly surprised by how much better and healthier you will feel for doing so. Why Balance Is Crucial Let’s get started with today’s discussion on balance and falls. Balance is one of those things you might not realize the importance of until you start to lose it. For most of us, balance declines as we get older. For some seniors and elders, poor balance and falling can result from medical issues beyond their control. However, for the majority of people, it is simply a matter of losing strength and losing the natural ability to move the way you did when you were younger. If you don’t think this is a serious issue, consider that falls are the leading cause of death from injury among people aged 65 and older. It only takes one fall to take you off your feet for weeks or months—or possibly to remove your independence entirely. Key Statistic:  The biggest predictor of future falls is having already fallen once. If you or a loved one has fallen once, they are very likely to fall a second, third, or more times. Addressing balance issues early is critical. C-auses of Balance Problems What causes balance problems? There are many causes, and they can be short-term or long-term: Inner Ear Issues:  Infections or a history of ear problems can affect balance. Head Injury:  Previous head injuries can lead to balance difficulties. Medication Interactions:  Always check your medications and discuss potential side effects with your physician. Blood Pressure Issues:  Both high and low blood pressure can cause dizziness, which impacts balance. Neurological Conditions:  Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, cerebral palsy, and past strokes. Arthritis and Joint Problems:  These can limit mobility and disrupt balance. Multifactorial Disequilibrium:  This term describes multiple reasons contributing to balance problems, often seen in older adults. If activity levels decrease as you age, your fall risk increases. A sedentary lifestyle leads to weaker muscles and poorer coordination, compounding balance issues. This is the most seen reason for balance problems. See this video to learn why: https://www.youtube.com/shorts/-gltZ_ZM7B0 Assessment and Solutions Balance problems are not usually difficult to assess. While some clinicians believe extensive testing is required, a specially trained physical therapist can often use conservative techniques to pinpoint the problem and, more importantly, the solution. Doctors may prescribe medications such as Antivert or Meclizine to manage dizziness. However, these are not solutions; they mask symptoms without addressing the root cause. The number one thing you can do to improve your balance—and yes, it absolutely can improve—is to work with a specialist physical therapist experienced in this type of care. Prevention Tips Stay Active:  Regular exercise, such as walking or stationary cycling, improves strength and endurance. Engage in a Balance Program:  A program run by a specialist physical therapist can target specific weaknesses. Practice Safe Exercises at Home: Standing March:  March in place for 20-30 seconds. Three-Way Kicks:  Stand on one leg and kick in different directions. Side-Stepping:  Walk sideways along a wall for support. One-Leg Stand:  Balance on one leg for up to 30 seconds. Sit-to-Stand:  Rise from a chair without using your arms. Test Your Balance:  Use the Five-Time Sit-to-Stand Test : Stand up and sit down five times as quickly as possible. If it takes longer than 13 seconds, you’re at higher risk of falling and should consider professional help. Take the Next Step Achieva Rehabilitation specializes in treating people with high fall risk and helping them regain independence. Call us at 1-888-929-7677 , schedule a free phone consultation, or arrange a discovery visit at www.achievarehab.com . For more information, check out our blog on Balance and Fall Prevention . https://www.achievarehab.com/blog Remember, balance problems are not a natural part of aging—you can absolutely do something about it! 1-888-929-7677

As we age, maintaining balance becomes increasingly crucial for preserving independence and preventing falls. Identifying early signs of balance deterioration allows for timely intervention and improved quality of life. Subtle Indicators of Balance Decline One key indicator is a newfound hesitation or caution during daily activities that previously posed no challenge. For instance, if you begin to feel uneasy while walking on grass, navigating inclines or declines, or climbing stairs—tasks that were once routine—it may signal a decline in balance. Such apprehension suggests that your body's stability mechanisms are not functioning optimally. Understanding the Causes It's important to note that balance issues are not an inevitable part of aging but often result from changes in activity levels. A more sedentary lifestyle can lead to muscle weakness and decreased coordination, contributing to balance problems. According to the National Institute on Aging, symptoms of balance disorders include dizziness, vertigo, and a feeling of unsteadiness. National Institute on Aging Proactive Steps to Improve Balance The encouraging news is that early intervention can prevent and even reverse balance issues. Engaging in regular physical activity, particularly exercises focusing on strength and balance, is highly beneficial. The Mayo Clinic suggests that balance retraining exercises, also known as vestibular rehabilitation, can help individuals adapt and maintain physical activity levels. Mayo Clinic Incorporating practices like tai chi and yoga can also enhance balance and coordination. A recent article highlights that these ancient practices not only reduce lower back pain but also improve posture and flexibility, contributing to better balance. The Times & The Sunday Times Take Action Today If you notice any signs of balance decline, it's essential to consult with a healthcare professional. Early assessment and intervention can help identify underlying causes and tailor a program to address specific needs. Physical therapists can design personalized exercises to strengthen muscles and improve stability, reducing the risk of falls. For more personalized advice and resources, visit our website at www.achievarehab.com . Our team of experts is dedicated to helping you achieve your rehabilitation goals and enhance your well-being. Additionally, explore our blog on Balance and Fall Prevention https://www.achievarehab.com/blog  for further insights into maintaining stability and preventing falls. 888-929-7677 https://youtube.com/shorts/IwfEeH8poqI?si=0I96oDgTSGp7U44F

Vertigo is often misunderstood, even within the healthcare community. By definition, vertigo is the false sensation of movement, where an individual feels as though they or their surroundings are moving when, in reality, they are stationary. This sensation is commonly accompanied by involuntary eye movements known as nystagmus, characterized by the eyes shifting rapidly from side to side. A relatable example is the dizziness experienced after spinning around rapidly and then suddenly stopping—the environment seems to continue spinning, which mirrors the experience of vertigo. Common Causes of Vertigo One prevalent cause of vertigo is Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV). BPPV occurs when tiny calcium carbonate crystals, known as canaliths, become dislodged and migrate into the semicircular canals of the inner ear. This displacement disrupts normal fluid movement within the canals, sending false signals to the brain about your body's position and leading to the sensation of spinning or dizziness. BPPV is notably the most common vestibular disorder across all age groups. Effective Treatment Options The good news is that BPPV can be effectively treated, often with rapid results, through specific physical therapy maneuvers. One such technique is the Epley maneuver, a series of head and body movements designed to guide the dislodged crystals back to their proper location in the inner ear, thereby alleviating symptoms. Physical therapists trained in vestibular rehabilitation can perform these maneuvers safely and teach patients how to manage their symptoms. According to the Cleveland Clinic, these physical therapy exercises are highly effective in treating BPPV. The Role of Physical Therapy Physical therapists play a crucial role in diagnosing and treating vertigo, particularly BPPV. They conduct thorough evaluations to confirm the presence of BPPV and then implement appropriate repositioning maneuvers. Additionally, they may provide vestibular rehabilitation exercises aimed at improving balance and reducing dizziness. These exercises help train the brain to compensate for inner ear issues, enhancing stability and reducing the risk of falls. Take the Next Step If you're experiencing symptoms of vertigo, it's essential to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan. Physical therapy offers effective solutions that can significantly improve your quality of life. For more personalized advice and resources, visit our website at www.achievarehab.com . Our team of experts is dedicated to helping you achieve your rehabilitation goals and enhance your well-being. Additionally, explore our blog at https://www.achievarehab.com/blog  for further insights into maintaining stability and preventing falls and vertigo. https://youtube.com/shorts/cnaBccaGtTs?si=wrgJQNiW3gv4gt7T

As wobbly toddlers, we diligently worked to improve our balance and propel ourselves forward efficiently. Through activities like skipping, climbing trees, and doing somersaults, we honed our coordination and stability. However, as adults, many of us have shifted to more sedentary lifestyles, spending significant time sitting during commutes, at desks, or on couches. This decrease in spontaneous movement leads to weakened leg and lower back muscles, adversely affecting our balance. The Impact of a Sedentary Lifestyle on Balance A sedentary lifestyle has been linked to various health issues, including diminished balance and increased fall risk. Studies indicate that prolonged inactivity can lead to muscle weakness and joint stiffness, compromising stability. According to research, high levels of sedentary behavior are unfavorably associated with physical health-related quality of life in adults. Canadian Science Publishing Benefits of Physical Activity for Balance Engaging in regular physical activity is crucial for maintaining and improving balance, especially as we age. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) highlights that physical activity can reduce the risk of falls by enhancing strength and coordination. CDC Moreover, a study analyzing nearly 8,000 older adults found that balance and functional exercises reduce the rate of falls by 24%. Tufts University School of Medicine Incorporating Balance Exercises into Daily Life To counteract the effects of a sedentary lifestyle, consider integrating the following activities into your routine: Tai Chi and Yoga:  These practices improve balance, flexibility, and strength. Standing on One Foot:  Simple exercises like standing on one leg can enhance stability. Heel-to-Toe Walk:  Walking in a straight line, placing the heel of one foot directly in front of the toes of the other, can improve coordination. Consistent practice of these exercises can lead to significant improvements in balance and a reduction in fall risk. Achieva Rehabilitation: Your Partner in Balance Improvement At Achieva Rehabilitation, we understand the importance of maintaining balance and mobility as you age. Our in-home physical therapy programs are tailored to address individual needs, focusing on strengthening the lower back and legs, enhancing flexibility, and improving overall balance. By bringing therapy directly to your home, we make it convenient and effective for you to regain confidence in your movements. For more personalized advice and resources, visit our website at www.achievarehab.com . Our team of experts is dedicated to helping you achieve your rehabilitation goals and improve your quality of life. Additionally, explore our blog page on Balance and Fall Prevention for further insights into enhancing stability and independence. https://www.achievarehab.com/blog www.achievarehab.com 888-929-7677

Exercise is a cornerstone in managing Parkinson's disease, offering numerous benefits that can significantly enhance quality of life. Regular physical activity helps maintain mobility, balance, and overall well-being, counteracting many of the motor symptoms associated with the condition. Benefits of Exercise in Parkinson's Disease Improved Mobility:  Engaging in regular exercise can help maintain and even improve mobility by enhancing muscle strength and flexibility. This is crucial in combating the slowed movements characteristic of Parkinson's. Enhanced Balance and Coordination:  Balance exercises can reduce the risk of falls by improving stability and coordination, addressing common challenges faced by individuals with Parkinson's. Mood and Cognitive Benefits:  Physical activity has been shown to alleviate depression and anxiety, common non-motor symptoms of Parkinson's, and may also enhance cognitive function. Recommended Types of Exercise Aerobic Activities:  Exercises such as walking, swimming, or cycling increase heart rate and improve overall fitness. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise per week. Strength Training:  Incorporate resistance exercises to build muscle strength, which supports better posture and daily functioning. Perform strength training sessions 2-3 times per week. Flexibility Exercises:  Stretching routines enhance flexibility and reduce muscle stiffness, aiding in smoother movements. Include stretching exercises in your daily routine. Balance and Coordination Exercises:  Practices like tai chi or yoga improve balance and coordination, reducing the risk of falls. Engage in balance exercises at least 2-3 times per week. Getting Started Safely Before beginning any exercise program, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional or physical therapist to develop a regimen tailored to your abilities and needs. They can provide guidance on appropriate exercises and ensure that you perform them safely. Stay Consistent Consistency is key to reaping the benefits of exercise. Find activities you enjoy to help maintain regular participation, and consider joining group classes or finding an exercise partner for motivation and support. For more personalized advice and resources on managing Parkinson's disease through exercise, visit our website at www.achievarehab.com . Our team of experts is dedicated to helping you achieve your rehabilitation goals and improve your quality of life. Additionally, explore our blog HERE  for further insights into enhancing mobility and independence.

Arthritis is a prevalent condition among older adults, often leading to balance issues that increase the risk of falls. Understanding how arthritis contributes to these balance problems is essential for developing effective management strategies. Impact of Arthritis on Balance Joint Stiffness and Pain:  Arthritis causes inflammation in the joints, leading to stiffness and pain. This discomfort can alter gait and posture, making it challenging to maintain balance. Muscle Weakness:  Chronic pain and reduced mobility from arthritis can result in muscle weakness, particularly in the lower extremities. Weakened muscles are less effective at stabilizing the body, increasing the risk of falls. Reduced Range of Motion:  Arthritis can limit the range of motion in joints, affecting the ability to perform movements necessary for maintaining balance. Strategies to Improve Balance Physical Therapy:  Engaging in physical therapy can help strengthen muscles, improve joint mobility, and enhance balance. A physical therapist can design a personalized exercise program tailored to individual needs. Assistive Devices:  Using devices such as canes or walkers can provide additional support and stability during movement. Lifestyle Modifications:  Maintaining a healthy weight, managing arthritis symptoms, and creating a safe home environment can reduce fall risk. Maintaining mobility is crucial for seniors, and physical therapy offers effective strategies to enhance walking abilities. Understanding Age-Related Changes in Gait As we age, factors such as muscle weakness, joint stiffness, and balance issues can lead to a decline in walking efficiency. These changes may increase the risk of falls and reduce independence. Benefits of Physical Therapy for Walking Strength Enhancement:  Targeted exercises can build muscle strength, supporting better posture and movement. Improved Flexibility:  Stretching routines help maintain joint range of motion, facilitating smoother strides. Balance Training:  Specific interventions can enhance stability, reducing the likelihood of falls. Gait Re-education:  Therapists can assess and correct walking patterns to promote safer and more efficient mobility. Getting Started with Physical Therapy Consulting a licensed physical therapist is the first step toward improving your walking abilities. They will develop a personalized program tailored to your needs and goals. Stay Active and Informed Regular physical activity, combined with professional guidance, can significantly enhance your quality of life. Remember, it's never too late to take steps toward better mobility. For more personalized advice and resources, visit our website at www.achievarehab.com . Our team of experts is dedicated to helping you achieve your rehabilitation goals and improve your quality of life. Additionally, explore another blog by Joel HERE  for further insights into enhancing mobility and independence.

Freezing gait is a common and frustrating symptom for many people living with Parkinson’s disease. It can feel as though your feet are glued to the floor, refusing to move no matter how much you try. Meanwhile, the rest of your body may still be in motion, creating a disconcerting disconnect. Fortunately, there are practical strategies to address this issue, empowering you to regain control of your movements. Understanding Freezing Gait Freezing gait often occurs unexpectedly, disrupting your ability to walk smoothly. It may happen when navigating tight spaces, approaching doorways, or turning. The exact cause lies in the way Parkinson’s disease affects the brain’s motor control systems, making it difficult to initiate or continue movement. This symptom is more than just inconvenient; it can increase the risk of falls and injuries. However, with a better understanding of how to manage freezing, you can minimize its impact on your daily life. The Reset-and-March Technique One of the most effective ways to manage freezing gait is to stop and reset. Here’s how: Pause:  When you feel your feet "freeze," stop walking. Take a moment to pause, allowing your central nervous system to recalibrate. This simple step is critical to breaking the freezing cycle. Reset Your Focus:  After a brief pause—about 5 to 10 seconds—shift your mental focus to a new movement pattern. March Instead of Step:  Think about marching rather than stepping. Visualize lifting your knees up high with each step. This movement engages the larger muscles in your hips, which are more effective at breaking through the freeze. Why Does This Work? Marching changes the focus of your movement. Instead of trying to push your feet forward, which may feel impossible, you redirect the effort to your knees and hips. This shift activates different neural pathways, helping you regain momentum and overcome the freezing episode. Additional Tips for Managing Freezing Gait External Cues:  Use visual or auditory cues, like stepping over a line on the floor or walking to the beat of a metronome or music. These cues can provide a rhythm or target to focus on, making movement initiation easier. Environment Management:  Simplify spaces where freezing is most likely to occur. Declutter walkways and avoid tight turns whenever possible. Practice Regularly:  Work with a physical therapist to practice techniques like the reset-and-march approach in a safe, controlled environment. Consistent practice can improve your confidence and reduce freezing episodes over time. Seeking Support Freezing gait can be challenging, but it doesn’t have to control your life. By understanding the mechanics behind it and using strategies like pausing, resetting, and marching, you can take meaningful steps toward managing this symptom. If you or a loved one is struggling with freezing gait or other Parkinson’s-related challenges, consider reaching out to a physical therapist with expertise in Parkinson’s disease. They can provide personalized strategies and exercises tailored to your specific needs, helping you maintain independence and improve your quality of life. Remember, you don’t have to navigate Parkinson’s disease alone—support is always available.

A great thing to do if you are early on in your Parkinson's disease journey is to track your abilities. This will allow you to have a reference as time goes on to determine if you need more of one thing or another. For example, if you are able to walk for 2 miles today, write that down on today's date and compare it in 6 months to a year. Take a picture of what your posture looks like when you're just standing in a normal posture and compare that 6 months to a year down the road. Look at your walking stride length and take a picture or a video of how your stride is coming along. Assess your balance by taking a picture of you possibly standing with your feet together or maybe trying to stand on one foot. These references can tell you later on, in comparison, if you need some intervention to improve. If you have Parkinson's Disease, you don't have to let it win. You can live well with Parkinson's Disease. The following is a review and recollection of a patient with PD that was able to do so with our In-Home PT Program: "I have participated at other physical therapy facilities using their fancy machines. Achieva is different. They use what you have in your home so that you can function in your everyday life. You will not find anyone with more knowledge, compassion, or perseverance to help their patients achieve their goals more than Achieva Rehabilitation." This was a case that was pretty challenging. We did it all within the comfort of the patient's home and had amazing success. You see, because it is one-on-one for 60 minutes, it's just the therapist and the patient, and there's nothing more valuable than that. You just don't get that anywhere else. Always here and always available to help: www.achievarehab.com 1-888-929-7677 Another Blog about PD: https://www.achievarehab.com/single-post/thaw-out-the-freezing-of-parkinson-s-disease-learn-how-to-keep-your-feet-moving

One common issue we observe in people with Parkinson's disease is a shortened stride length. As the disease progresses, steps become increasingly shorter rather than maintaining a normal length. This happens because the brain of someone with Parkinson's disease has a distorted awareness of stride length. For example, if I take a step that is about two feet long, someone with Parkinson's may perceive that step as four feet long. Since the brain interprets the step as too long, it automatically reduces the stride length. Over time, even short steps are perceived as excessively long, leading the brain to shorten them further. This cycle continues, resulting in progressively smaller steps. Fortunately, there are strategies to address this issue. Feel free to reach out to us for guidance and support. Furthermore, a common question we receive is, "How can I work on my freezing gait if I have Parkinson's disease?" Freezing gait is the experience where, while walking with Parkinson's disease, your feet feel stuck or frozen to the floor. You may be telling your feet to move, but they simply don't respond, even as the rest of your body continues to move forward or sideways. When this happens, I always recommend stopping for at least 5 to 10 seconds. This pause allows your central nervous system to reset. After that, your next step is to march through the process. Instead of focusing on stepping, think of marching by lifting your knees rather than your feet. This action engages the larger muscles in your hips to help with the stepping motion, which often breaks the freezing cycle. Remember, stopping briefly to reset is crucial for this technique to work effectively. For more Parkinson's Disease related support and free advice, please go to our website: www.achievarehab.com Call or text: 1-888-929-7677 Related Blog: https://www.achievarehab.com/single-post/transforming-lives-with-achieva-rehabilitation-a-case-study-parkinson-s-disease

Hello! I'm Joel J. Digris, the owner of Achieva Rehabilitation's In-Home Physical Therapy Program. Our mission is to bring high-quality physical therapy services directly to your doorstep, eliminating the need for you to travel to a clinic. You might be wondering how a business without a physical address operates and serves its community effectively. Let me explain. The Convenience and Benefits of In-Home Physical Therapy In-home physical therapy, also known as mobile physical therapy, is a service-oriented business model. Instead of you coming to us, we come to you. This approach offers several advantages: Convenience:  No need to worry about transportation or navigating unfamiliar places. We bring all the necessary equipment to your home. Personalized Care:  One-on-one sessions in the comfort of your own home ensure that you receive personalized attention tailored to your specific needs and goals. Comfort:  Being treated in a familiar environment can reduce anxiety and make the therapy process more enjoyable and effective. Accessibility:  For those with mobility issues or who find it challenging to leave their homes, in-home therapy ensures that everyone has access to the care they need. Our Coverage Area Although we don't have a physical clinic, our team of dedicated therapists travels extensively to provide services throughout our coverage area. Our reach is based on our Google My Business map, which helps us connect with clients across various locations. By focusing on a broad service area, we aim to make high-quality physical therapy accessible to more people. Areas We Serve Our therapists travel across a wide region to provide exceptional care. The Google My Business map shows our extensive coverage area, which includes but is not limited to: Hazleton, PA Kingston, PA Lansford, PA Mahanoy City, PA Minersville, PA Orwigsburg, PA Pottsville, PA Schuylkill Haven, PA Shenandoah, PA Tamaqua, PA Tower City, PA Weatherly, PA Whitehall, PA Wilkes-Barre, PA Frackville, PA Drums, PA We cover all areas in between these locations, ensuring comprehensive service throughout the region. No matter where you are within our service area, we are committed to bringing the highest quality physical therapy services right to your home. Ready to Get Started? If you or a loved one could benefit from in-home physical therapy, contact us today. We're here to help you regain your mobility, improve your health, and enhance your quality of life, all from the comfort of your own home. Thank you for considering Achieva Rehabilitation. We look forward to working with you. Stay well, Joel J. DigrisOwner, Achieva Rehabilitation In-Home Physical Therapy Program www.achievarehab.com info@achievarehab.com 888-929-7677 http://www.youtube.com/@achievarehabilitation6370 Click HERE  for more info about the Achieva Rehabilitation In-Home Physical Therapy Program

Hello! I’m Joel J. Digris, a physical therapist with Achieva Rehabilitation’s In-Home Physical Therapy Program. As we age, our risk of falling increases, and falls can lead to serious injuries. Did you know that one in four Americans aged 65+ falls each year? And, unfortunately, falls are the leading cause of fatal and non-fatal injuries among older adults. At Achieva Rehabilitation, we are committed to helping you stay safe, mobile, and independent. To determine if you might be at risk of falling, I’ve prepared a short questionnaire. Answering these questions can help you identify potential balance and fall risk issues that may need to be addressed with physical therapy. Fall Risk and Poor Balance Questionnaire Have you fallen in the past year? Yes No Do you feel unsteady when standing or walking? Yes No Do you worry about falling? Yes No Do you need to use your hands to rise from a chair? Yes No Do you use a cane, walker, or any assistive device for walking? Yes No Do you have trouble stepping up onto a curb or climbing stairs? Yes No Do you often need to hold onto furniture or walls for balance? Yes No Do you feel dizzy or lightheaded when standing up from a sitting or lying position? Yes No Have you noticed a decrease in your ability to engage in activities you enjoy due to balance or mobility issues? Yes No Do you have a fear of falling that limits your daily activities? Yes No Interpreting Your Results If you answered “Yes” to three or more of these questions, you might be at a higher risk of falling and could benefit from a physical therapy evaluation. Here are some standard tests that support the identification of high fall risk: Timed Up and Go (TUG) Test:  Measures the time it takes to rise from a chair, walk 10 feet, return, and sit down. A time greater than 12 seconds suggests a high fall risk. Berg Balance Scale:  Assesses your ability to perform various activities such as standing on one foot or reaching forward. A score below 45 out of 56 indicates a higher risk of falling. Five Times Sit to Stand Test:  Measures the time it takes to stand up and sit down five times. A time greater than 15 seconds is associated with a higher fall risk. Next Steps If you find that you are at risk, don’t wait until a fall occurs. Our in-home physical therapy program can provide you with personalized exercises and interventions designed to improve your balance, strength, and confidence. At Achieva Rehabilitation, we work one-on-one with you, with no distractions, to help you regain your mobility and enjoy life to the fullest. Stay safe and take care, Joel J. Digris, Physical Therapist Achieva Rehabilitation's In-Home Physical Therapy Program www.achievarehab.com info@achievarehab.com 888-929-7677 http://www.youtube.com/@achievarehabilitation6370 Click HERE  for more info about the Achieva Rehabilitation In-Home Physical Therapy Program

What a scary thing...shortness of breath. It's something that most of us avoid but it's also something that most of us don't understand well. So, I ask "Is shortness of breath good or bad? Or both?" The answer is both and I hope you can understand it much better after reading. If you have shortness of breath that persists when you are resting, it may be a concern. Sometimes it can be caused by chronic respiratory issues such as COPD or emphysema but if it's new, it certainly is a concern. The second way that shortness of breath can be concerning is if it comes along with other types of symptoms. You might end up having a cluster of symptoms that together are often the body's response and the body's way of telling you that you probably need some attention. If you get short of breath and that shortness of breath does not go away with rest and you also have something like sweating or dizziness or nausea or pain or more profound weakness, or vision changes, if any of those symptoms kind of come along together with your shortness of breath and they stick with you, I would probably encourage you to think about contacting your doctor or 911 if you feel that those situations are severe. In that circumstance, these are concerns for your health at that particular moment. That's the bad. But, there is a good side that we like to use to make people better. Shortness of breath during exercise that goes away after you rest for several minutes is actually what we want to see you experience. Whatever it might be that is physical activity, if that physical activity brings along shortness of breath, don't be afraid of it if it comes along by itself and it's not met with those other types of symptoms. If the shortness of breath is alone by itself, you can use that to work your muscles to become more efficient, and your life will start to improve. As you do that on a regular basis, you will move better, you will move easier, and you'll actually become less short of breath over time with the same amount of activity because your muscles are learning how to efficiently use that oxygen. They are adapting and that's how exercise works...your system adapts so you can move better, feel better, live better. A marathon trainer does not roll out of bed on day one and run 26 miles. They might start with a mile, then build to two, three, five, seven, ten, thirteen, and so on. Along that path, their muscles are relearning to use oxygen much more efficiently. In the same way, we encourage you to be more active to the point of shortness of breath that you can still have a conversation through. What I mean by that is that you exercise to increase your heart rate and your breath rate but you are still able to talk with a friend who is with you or you can exercise and talk on the phone without much of a challenge. That's a good way to measure if you are doing worthwhile exercise as an older adult and something to embrace and not fear. Do that regularly every day, maybe a couple of times per day, and you will see your ability to tolerate it for a longer period of time. You will be able to walk further, get up and down the stairs easier, get out of a chair easier, and enjoy time with your family and friends much easier. Your shortness of breath will actually be less. A complicated topic hopefully made easier to understand. Don't fear shortness of breath...embrace it to make yourself better. Hard things make you better! My company is here to help guide you if that makes you nervous...our guided program in your home is led by a licensed physical therapist. We all have decades of experience with older adults and making them move as well as they have in many years and in the end, moving better is a key to happiness. www.achievarehab.com info@achievarehab.com 888-929-7677 https://www.youtube.com/@achievarehabilitation6370 Click HERE  for more info about the Achieva Rehabilitation In-Home Physical Therapy Program