ICE OR HEAT?
Acute injury (New Injury) Ice 20 Minutes on / 20 minutes off
To control swelling, pain and muscle spasm
Sub acute injury (Not so new injury) - Heat 20 minutes on / 40 minutes off
To increase blood flow and to decrease pain and spasm
Chronic injury (Old injury) - Heat 20 minutes on / 40 minutes off
To increase blood flow and to decrease pain and spasm
HOME CARE: Follow Home Care and/or exercise program as prescribed.
POSTURE: Always be mindful of your posture. Avoid slouching when driving, working, or watching television. Proper posture will not feel natural until it becomes natural.
SLEEP:
FIRST RULE: Do not sacrifice a good nights sleep trying to maintain a certain position. We will try to modify your positioning.
If possible, avoid sleeping on your stomach. Ideally sleep on your back or side.
"When on your back, lie flat with a pillow under your head and neck along with a pillow under your knees.
If necessary we will make a recommendation to modify your sleep position to minimize your pain. Do not lay on the couch.
DO NOT SLEEP WITH MORE THAN ONE PILLOW UNDER YOUR HEAD!
When on your side, support your head and neck so that your spine is in a straight line. Place a pillow between your knees to keep your pelvis from rotating. Do not use a regular foam pillow. A Chiro-flow water pillow is best for head and neck support, as you are able to adjust the firmness of the pillow to your comfort
DO"NOT LAY ON THE COUCH WITH YOUR HEAD PROPPED ON THE ARM REST!
LIFTING
• In most cases, DO NOT do any excessive lifting (over 15-20lbs) during the initial phase of care.
• When you do lift, always bend from the knees and not from the back, keeping your back straight at all times.
• Hold the weight close to your body as you carry it.
Our goal is to get you well and back to doing the things you enjoy. Help us help you by following the above instructions.
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