Scripps Health - All News for Physical Rehabilitation

Identifying Sports Injuries That Can Cause Brain Damage

2011-12-15T14:59:42-08:00

In a High School lacrosse game, Tommy Mallon took a helmet-to-helmet hit that left him with a severe concussion and a neck broken in three places. Scripps is working with local schools – and patients like Tommy – to help young athletes through Impact Testing, which assesses potential neurological damage.

Learn more about how Scripps is transforming medicine.

Scripps Returns Teacher to Head of Class

2011-06-27T10:43:42-07:00

Imagine suffering a head injury so severe, you couldn’t find your way to familiar places or follow a simple recipe. Then imagine being told by doctors that your injury had healed and you were fine.

This was reality for Ticia Bracher, a 46-year-old special education teacher from La Mesa, Calif. In May 2006 she fell and hit her head after tripping over a cord in her classroom. Bracher immediately began experiencing problems with memory, thought processing and judgment.

“It wasn’t just a matter of misplacing my car keys,” Bracher says. “I couldn’t multi-task, I couldn’t perform my job, I couldn’t drive a car safely. I once tried to get out of a moving vehicle at 65 miles an hour.”

After months of frustrating doctor appointments, Bracher was referred to Scripps neurologist Dr. Michael Lobatz. Recognizing that Bracher was experiencing the effects of a traumatic brain injury, Dr. Lobatz recommended she undergo intensive therapy at the brain injury day treatment program at Scripps Memorial Hospital Encinitas.

Bracher participated diligently in the program for six months. Her team of therapists included Laura Coca, a licensed speech therapist, who taught her strategies for improving short-term memory, processing speed and concentration.

“My goal was to make sure Ticia became independent again, because she was relying on her loved ones to remember things for her,” Coca says. “Ticia needed to re-learn how to depend on herself. And because she is so motivated and driven, she has done just that.”

Today, Bracher says her life has come full circle. Shortly before her brain injury, she was voted as teacher of the year at Spring Valley Middle School. But she spent the next several years working 16-hour days just to keep up with classroom demands, feeling like she was short-changing her students because she couldn’t function at her usual level.

Then in February 2011, after completing therapy at Scripps and starting a new job at La Mesa Middle School, Bracher was nominated as that school’s teacher of the year.

“You can’t imagine what it feels like to have someone give you your life back,” Bracher says. “I feel like Laura and the rest of the Scripps rehab team took apart my damaged brain, fixed it, and then put it back together, piece by piece.”

Bracher and Coca were honored during the San Diego Padres pregame ceremonies June 27 at Petco Park.

Scripps has been the official health care provider to the Padres since 1981. To find a Scripps physician, call 1-800-SCRIPPS.

The Savvy Patient - Shoulder Can Be Ground Zero for Pain

2011-03-15T11:27:06-07:00

In this week’s installment of The San Diego Union-Tribune’s “Savvy Patient” column, Scripps Health provides insight on dealing with shoulder pain.

In the United States, nearly 1.5 million people a year visit an emergency department for shoulder problems, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The shoulder is one of the most common regions where patients suffer pain. Pinpointing the precise source of shoulder pain is important, because pain felt in the shoulder joint may be from a shoulder problem or may stem from another issue, such as nerve irritation in the neck.

Various treatment options such as nonoperative therapy, cortisone injections and surgery are available.

Read the full article for more: Shoulder can be ground zero for pain

Media Contact: Steve Carpowich
Phone: 858-678-7183
E-mail: carpowich.stephen@scrippshealth.org

Scripps Tips – March 2011

2011-03-04T11:28:42-08:00

Tips to Reduce the Severity and Frequency of Headaches
When it comes to the rate of chronic headaches in the United States, studies have shown that roughly 45 million Americans suffer from them each year, representing a prevalence that is roughly one out of every six people. For those who suffer from tension headaches, cluster headaches or migraines, there are effective evidence-based treatment options. From dietary supplements and prescription medications to lifestyle and diet changes, doctors Robert Bonakdar and Christy Jackson will discuss relief options during a free lecture on Tuesday, March 8, at 7 p.m. at the Scripps Center for Integrative Medicine. For more information or to book Drs. Bonakdar or Jackson as a guest, contact Rachel Lichterman at 858-678-7348 or lichterman.rachel@scrippshealth.org.

Scripps Enlists USS Midway in Fight Against Cancer; ‘In Concert for Cancer’ Jazz Fundraiser Set for March 11
A contemporary jazz concert to benefit research efforts at Scripps Cancer Center is set for Friday, March 11, from 6:30 p.m. to 10 p.m., aboard the USS Midway Museum. Open to the general public, the inaugural “In Concert for Cancer” fundraising concert will feature a lineup of six world-renowned jazz recording artists: Guitarist Richard Smith, keyboardist Gregg Karukas, and saxophonists Jeff Kashiwa, Steve Cole, Mindi Abair and Kim Waters. Organizers hope to eventually expand this event to other U.S. cities to help in the fight against cancer. Several of those involved in the concert have been affected by cancer and understand firsthand the healing power that music can provide. To learn more about this special event or to arrange an interview, please contact Steve Carpowich at 858-678-7183, or carpowich.stephen@scrippshealth.org.

National Experts to Share Latest Advances in Brain Injury Rehab
March 18-19 at Scripps Conference in Carlsbad
Approximately 1.7 million people suffer traumatic brain injuries in the United States annually, with direct and indirect cost estimated at $60 billion a year. Most of these cases are concussions or other relatively mild brain injuries, in which patients can often overcome cognitive impairments with the proper treatment and rehabilitation. Hundreds of the nation’s leading brain injury experts will gather at a special conference hosted by the Scripps Encinitas Rehab Center March 18-19, to discuss the latest research advances in the field – and how they can be translated into better care for brain-injured patients. Dr. Michael Lobatz, medical director of the Scripps Encinitas Rehab Center, is available to share his perspective on this important public health issue. To arrange an interview, please contact Steve Carpowich at carpowich.stephen@scrippshealth.org or 858-678-7183.

Parents Turn Grief into Lifesaving Events for Teens
Rhina Paredes, a registered nurse at Scripps Green Hospital, had no idea her athletic 15-year-old son Eric had an undetected heart condition until he unexpectedly passed away from sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) in July 2009. To help prevent SCA in school age children, Paredes and her family established the Eric Paredes Save a Life Foundation. One of its priorities is providing free cardiac screenings to San Diego students. To date, the Foundation has screened more than 1,000 adolescents – and 30 were identified with heart anomalies. The next cardiac screening event will take place at Ramona High School on March 20. For more information about this program, contact Lisa Ohmstede at 858-626-7142 or ohmstede.lisa@scrippshealth.org.

Are MRIs Safe for Patients with Pacemakers and ICDs?
Traditionally patients with pacemakers, which generate electrical impulses to treat irregular heart beats, have had to forgo MRI scans because of the risk of the machines’ radiowaves interfering with the heart devices. As many as 200,000 U.S. pacemaker patients opt out of MRI scans every year even though the scans play a critical role in making a wide range of health diagnoses. However, Dr. Robert Russo, a cardiologist at Scripps Health, is leading the way to determine if MRIs are safe for select patients with implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs) and pacemakers – even going so far as getting Medicare to change its reimbursement for clinical trials in this case. For more information about this story and Dr. Russo’s “Magnasafe” study, contact Lisa Ohmstede at 858-626-7142 or ohmstede.lisa@scrippshealth.org.

Caring for Loved Ones with Dementia
For family members and friends caring for a loved one with dementia, the challenges can seem overwhelming. Feelings such as frustration, guilt and sadness can take an emotional toll, while practical concerns such as how to afford the cost of care create additional stress. Once family members begin to notice that something is not right with their loved one’s behavior, they often don’t know what to do or where to turn for help. Scripps Health offers a series of seminars to address many of the medical, psychological and financial concerns caregivers have and also provides information about valuable community resources. For more information about this program, contact Lisa Ohmstede at 858-626-7142 or ohmstede.lisa@scrippshealth.org.

Scripps Cares for Hit and Run Patient

2011-01-24T14:39:48-08:00

While riding his bike with a friend, Heath Bernstein was struck by a hit and run driver in Carlsbad, California. Suffering multiple broken bones, Bernstein was brought to Scripps Memorial Hospital La Jolla for care. Soon, he will be transferred to Scripps Memorial Hospital Encinitas where he will receive rehabilitation further treatment for his injuries.

Media Contact: Lisa Ohmstede
Phone: 858-626-7142
E-mail: ohmstede.lisa@scrippshealth.org

San Diego Woman Proves Life Can Be Rewarding After Stroke

2010-12-20T09:28:21-08:00

Surprising as it may sound, San Diego resident Betty Santohigashi says surviving a devastating stroke has led her down a path she wouldn’t change, given the opportunity. Despite the hurdles she has faced during her journey toward recovery, she says the incredible self-discovery she’s gained along the way has allowed her to appreciate life in new, profound ways.

It was an ordinary July day in 2005 when Betty, a 54-year-old business litigation attorney and surfing enthusiast, suddenly lost all control of her left hand and arm while sewing. The abrupt loss of function alarmed her enough that she asked her daughter to call 911. Within minutes she was in an ambulance en route to Scripps Memorial Hospital La Jolla where she was diagnosed with a hemorrhagic stroke and underwent an emergency craniotomy. Although Betty’s life was saved, the stroke left her completely paralyzed on the left side of her body.

One step at a time

After five weeks in the intensive care unit, Betty was transferred to the rehabilitation center at Scripps Memorial Hospital Encinitas where she would spend the next five weeks participating in rigorous daily therapy designed to help her regain strength and mobility and re-learn basic skills.

Following her stay in the rehabilitation center’s inpatient unit Betty was discharged to their day treatment program, where for five months she continued her daily therapy on an outpatient basis. And in the years since completing the day treatment program, Betty has maintained therapy for three to six hours a day through a combination of home care and outpatient physical therapy.

“When I was admitted to the rehabilitation center I didn’t know if I would ever walk again,” says Betty. “But with the help of my therapy team, within weeks I was able to take my first steps. At that moment I knew that while I still had a long road ahead of me, I could overcome my paralysis if I worked hard.”

Betty has remained intensely focused on her recovery ever since, a quality to which her Scripps physical therapist, Jon Kern, attributes her remarkable progress.

“Betty’s biggest attributes are her positive attitude and her ability to persist despite challenges,” says Jon. “Rather than giving up when she encounters a set-back, she tries twice as hard and does so without complaining.”

Boundless potential

During sessions with Jon three days a week, Betty participates in exercises such as stretching, walking drills and balance drills. The customized regimen is designed to help her regain and maintain coordination, control and movement of the left side of her body including her foot, ankle, knee, hip and arm.

Betty says her therapy has gradually allowed her to become less dependent on assistive devices to get around.

“I no longer require a knee brace, and I only use a walker or power wheelchair when I’m outside of the house,” Betty says. “At home I force myself to walk unassisted, and in addition to grooming and dressing myself and other activities of daily living, I can help with light housework.”

Betty’s achievements since her stroke have not been limited by physical impairment. In 2009, under the pseudonym Billie Joe Waters, she published a book called “Islands of Calm in the Chaos: Thoughts on Recovery from Brain Injury and Stroke” about her experience as a stroke survivor. And in September 2010, Betty surfed for the first time since her stroke. Through a nonprofit organization called the Life Rolls On Foundation, Betty was able to hit the waves in La Jolla with the aid of an adaptive surfboard—an experience she intends to repeat.

In her free time Betty is also involved with the San Diego Brain Injury Foundation and takes classes on topics such as memory strategies and cognitive communication with other stroke and brain injury survivors through the Acquired Brain Injury program at San Diego Mesa College.

Giving thanks

In addition to her fellow Mesa College students, who she describes as a supportive family, and her own husband and daughter, Betty credits the staff from the Scripps Encinitas rehabilitation center for helping her come so far.

“Before I had my stroke, I’d never heard of stroke rehabilitation and didn’t know such a thing existed,” says Betty. “Today I can’t begin to imagine what my life would be like if I hadn’t received rehabilitation. Jon and the other staff I’ve worked with at Scripps have been a tremendous asset.

“It’s hard to find people who are that dedicated to their patients’ welfare, and who come up with such creative ways to make the therapy feel fun,” adds Betty. “Even though Jon pushes me, I actually look forward to my appointments!”

For more information about the stroke rehabilitation program at Scripps Memorial Hospital Encinitas, call 760-633-6507.

Scripps Doctor Talks About Concussion and Youth Sports

2010-07-22T14:11:06-07:00

Dr. Michael Lobatz spoke with San Diego CW6 News about the importance of knowing the signs and symptoms of concussion, especially for youth athletes.

Dr. Lobatz is medical director of the Rehabilitation Center and Brain Injury Program at Scripps Memorial Hospital Encinitas. The center offers rehabilitation for concussion injuries, as well as baseline testing for athletes who will be at risk for such injuries.

Dr. Tomer Anbar Discusses Chronic Pain Program on KUSI News

2009-12-14T15:36:34-08:00

Tomer Anbar, PhD, medical director of the Chronic Pain Rehabilitation Program, was recently interviewed by KUSI News regarding chronic pain and the holiday season. Dr. Anbar discussed the many forms that chronic pain can take and the importance of asking your physician to refer you to such a program.

Duration: 00:38:19.5

Physical Therapy Offers Help for Urinary Incontinence

2008-12-29T12:16:56-08:00

Urinary incontinence, or involuntary loss of bladder control, isn’t something that just happens to older patients. In fact, the condition affects men and women both old and young. According to the National Association for Continence (NAFC), more than 25 million Americans experience urinary incontinence, which can leave them feeling ashamed, socially isolated, and depressed.

Urinary incontinence is not a disease; rather it is a symptom. In many cases, urinary incontinence is due to weak muscles in the pelvic floor, which help support the bladder to hold urine in until you can get to a bathroom. The pelvic floor is a combination of muscles, ligaments and connective tissues that support the pelvic organs, including the bladder, vagina, uterus, prostate and rectum. These muscles may be weakened by a number of factors, including pregnancy, childbirth, surgery, heavy lifting, effects of aging, obesity, and chronic medical and neurologic conditions. If the pelvic floor muscles are weak, the bladder may not be adequately supported, and urinary incontinence can result.

In addition to urinary incontinence, other symptoms of pelvic floor disorders include:

Difficulty sitting
Pain with sexual intercourse
Lower back & abdominal pain
Rectal and vaginal pain

A recent study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that pelvic floor disorders affect up to one-quarter of American women. Fortunately, new research has shown that physical therapy treatment can help resolve symptoms of urinary incontinence in women. A 2008 study published in the Annals of Internal Medicine reported that pelvic floor muscle training, in conjunction with bladder training, helped treat the symptoms of urinary incontinence in women. The study, which included 96 randomized controlled trials from 1990 through 2007, concluded that pelvic floor muscle training and bladder training resolved urinary incontinence in women more effectively than other treatments, including drug therapy, medical devices, estrogen therapy and others.

As a result, the American Physical Therapy Association’s (APTA) Section on Women’s Health is urging women who experience pelvic floor disorders to consider examination and treatment from a physical therapist. According to APTA, proper preventive measures, along with examination and treatment by a physical therapist who has completed specialized training to address pelvic floor muscle dysfunctions, can help patients manage, if not alleviate, this often debilitating condition.

The most effective weapon in the fight against pelvic floor disorders are Kegel contractions, or exercises that involve contracting, holding, and releasing the pelvic floor muscles. Once patients have correctly identified these muscles, a physical therapist will train them how to enhance pelvic floor muscle function and how to incorporate the exercises into functional activities. Pelvic floor exercises can be done easily throughout the day and in different positions to enhance strength development. For those with very weak muscles, the exercises are best performed while lying down.

Physical therapists can also offer tips on lifestyle changes that will help make the bladder less irritable, such as avoiding common bladder irritants, retraining the bladder and lifting, moving, and exercising correctly.

At Scripps Memorial Hospital La Jolla, our pelvic floor physical therapy team has completed extensive training to treat all pelvic floor conditions. Our therapists utilize a variety of techniques as well as education to ensure each patient’s needs are addressed. All pelvic floor treatments are conducted one-on-one in a private setting.

If you experience urinary incontinence or believe you have a pelvic floor disorder, make an appointment with your physician. He or she can refer you to a physical therapist for treatment.

By Natalie Herback, DPT, CLT, physical therapist with Scripps Memorial Hospital La Jolla and a member of the APTA Section on Women’s Health. Join Natalie at a free public seminar on treatment options for urological conditions on Jan. 22, 2009, at 6 p.m. at Scripps Memorial Hospital La Jolla in the Noble Room of the Schaetzel Center. To register, call 1-800-SCRIPPS.

Media Contact: Lisa Ohmstede
Phone: 858-626-7142
Email: ohmstede.lisa@scrippshealth.org