We all enjoyed another great speaker who presented information we can all relate to. Dr. Leigh Dannhausen, D.P.T., and Brandon Lee, P.T. (son of former Arcadia Rotarian Dennis Lee) operate The Physical Edge Physical Therapy and Fitness Center at 253 No. Santa Anita Ave., Arcadia. The Physical Edge has operated for ten years at that location and been voted the best fitness center in the San Gabriel Valley for the last five consecutive years. Leigh says that many of her patients suffer from back pain due to poor posture, stress, over excursion, or any number of ailments. Brandon demonstrated several stretch routines we could adopt to help relieve some pain each morning. First the neck stretch from left to right and again from right to left, then the shoulder roll (back not forward). After each hour or so at a computer desk we should stand straight with tall posture, trying to stretch your shoulder blades, then stretch our peck muscles in the corner of the room with hands held high. These are simple stress relievers that could help with posture as well.

Carpel Tunnel is brought on by typing with raised wrists or wrists pointing down and not level to the keyboard. The elbows and knees should be in a forty-five degree position with wrists ending parallel to the desk. Wrist cushions on the keyboard are okay but better posture is the key to preventing this condition.

There were many questions for our speaker but one was asked about dealing with arthritis. Leigh said the trick to dealing with arthritis is motion. Keeping the joints lubricated by activities such as swimming (the best exercise of all) will help. Supplements will help delay and deter the deterioration of cartilage, and vitamin E or Glucosamine will help. Our core strength is very important to maintain so build our awareness of how to work to strengthen it. Yoga is very intense and great in moderation, just don’t over do it. Flexibility is the key; always stretch your quads and hamstrings before exercising. You can also do front planks and side planks as part of your work out routine, sit-ups are not as good.

For you golfers out there suffering from back pain, knee pain or hip pain, The Physical Edge can help with a Golf Rehab program led by Dr. Leigh Dannhausen, D.P.T. especially designed for your needs. Parting shot: Admittedly not a nutritionist, Leigh reminded us to try to eat simple food, and protein, nuts and food from the ground. It just might help us stay fit a little longer.

(Pat Dolphin)