Potter Physical Therapy LLC

10/27/2025

Topical creams for pain management are applied directly to the skin over painful areas to provide localized relief without the systemic side effects of oral medications. These creams often contain active ingredients such as menthol, camphor, capsaicin, lidocaine, or anti-inflammatory agents like diclofenac. They work by reducing inflammation, numbing the area, or altering pain signal transmission in the nerves. Topical pain creams are commonly used for conditions such as muscle soreness, joint pain, arthritis, tendonitis, or minor sports injuries. Because they act locally, they are a good option for individuals who want to avoid gastrointestinal or systemic side effects that can occur with oral pain relievers. Regular and proper application as directed can help improve comfort, mobility, and overall quality of life.

When it comes to managing pain, physical therapy is often a cornerstone of recovery. But for many patients, therapy sessions can be challenging due to ongoing discomfort, inflammation, or muscle soreness. One valuable tool that can help bridge this gap is the use of topical creams. These products pr...

09/23/2025

Heat and cold can both be helpful for pain relief, but they work best in different situations. Cold therapy is ideal for recent injuries, swelling, or sharp pain because it helps reduce inflammation and numb discomfort. Heat therapy, on the other hand, is ideal for ongoing stiffness, sore muscles, or tight joints since it increases blood flow and relaxes tissues. Because everyone’s condition is unique, your physical therapist can guide you on when to use heat or cold and how to get the most benefit from each.

One of the most pressing questions in the realm of physical therapy is: “Should I use heat or ice for my pain?” The answer lies in understanding that both therapies can be effective when applied at the right time. Knowing when to use heat versus cold can significantly impact your recovery speed ...

08/25/2025

The most effective exercise program for postmenopausal women should include a balanced combination of strengthening, stretching, cardiovascular, and balance training exercises. Strengthening exercises, such as weight training or resistance band work, help maintain muscle mass and protect against bone loss, reducing the risk of osteoporosis. Stretching improves flexibility and joint mobility, which can ease stiffness and support daily activities. Cardiovascular exercise promotes heart health, boosts metabolism, and aids in weight management, while balance training helps prevent falls, a major concern as bone density decreases with age. Together, these components create a well-rounded program that supports long-term health, independence, and overall quality of life. Physical therapists are uniquely qualified to design individualized exercise recommendations based on each person’s medical history, current health status, and functional needs, ensuring that the program is both safe and effective.

The most effective exercise program for postmenopausal women should include a balanced combination of strengthening, stretching, cardiovascular, and balance training exercises. Strengthening exercises, such as weight training or resistance band work, help maintain muscle mass and protect against bon...

08/06/2025

I am incredibly proud to have earned the EDS ECHO Finding Functional Foundations certification, an advanced training program focused on treating patients with hypermobility spectrum disorders and Ehlers-Danlos Syndromes. This achievement reflects my deep commitment to providing specialized, evidence-informed care for this often underserved population. It is a meaningful addition to my years of experience as a physical therapist and reinforces my dedication to lifelong learning and clinical excellence. This certification not only enhances my clinical skills but also allows me to better support patients in managing their complex conditions with confidence and compassion.

08/05/2025

Muscle toning is essential for older women as it helps maintain strength, balance, and mobility, which is critical in preventing falls and preserving independence. Regular resistance exercises using light weights, resistance bands, or body weight can improve muscle definition, support bone health, and boost metabolism. Even low-impact routines performed consistently can make a significant difference in overall health and quality of life.

Muscle toning is essential for older women to maintain strength, balance, and overall health as they age. Light resistance exercises help preserve lean muscle mass, support bone density, and improve joint stability, reducing the risk of falls and injuries. Toning also enhances posture, metabolism, a...

07/29/2025

At our clinic, we offer high-quality, individualized physical therapy specifically designed for patients with hypermobility, focusing on joint stabilization, enhancing neuromuscular control, and alleviating pain. With extensive experience managing complex hypermobility-related conditions, including Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (hEDS), our approach emphasizes gentle yet progressive strengthening, proprioceptive training, and postural retraining to support joint integrity without exacerbating symptoms. We also incorporate manual therapy and patient education to empower individuals with tools for self-management, addressing not just the physical challenges but also the fatigue, instability, and fear of movement that often accompany hypermobility.

Hypermobility is a condition that affects many individuals, often without them even realizing it. If you or someone you know has been diagnosed with joint hypermobility syndrome, it is essential to understand how physical therapy can be a game-changer in managing pain and enhancing joint stability.....

07/18/2025

Pelvic floor rehabilitation is a vital component of postpartum recovery, as it helps restore strength, function, and coordination to muscles that are often weakened or overstretched during pregnancy and childbirth. These muscles play a crucial role in regulating bladder and bowel function, sexual function, and maintaining core stability. Without proper rehabilitation, postpartum individuals may experience issues such as urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, and persistent pelvic pain. Early and targeted physical therapy can not only alleviate these symptoms but also support overall physical and emotional well-being, empowering new mothers to regain confidence and return to daily activities safely.

Bringing a new life into the world is a remarkable experience, yet it also presents various challenges, especially for new mothers. One vital but often overlooked aspect of postpartum recovery is pelvic floor rehabilitation. This important practice not only restores physical wellness but also improv...

07/02/2025

Maintaining healthy bones requires a balanced approach that includes regular exercise, a nutrient-rich diet, smart supplementation, and the guidance of physical therapy. Weight-bearing and resistance exercises—like walking, strength training, or yoga—stimulate bone growth and improve density. A diet rich in calcium (from dairy, leafy greens, or fortified foods) and vitamin D (from sunlight, fatty fish, or eggs) supports bone strength, while supplements can help fill any nutritional gaps. Physical therapy plays a key role by designing personalized exercise programs that safely build strength, improve balance, and reduce the risk of fractures, especially for those recovering from injury or managing bone-related conditions like osteoporosis

Bone health is an essential aspect of overall well-being, particularly as we age. With conditions like osteoporosis and osteopenia becoming increasingly common, understanding how to strengthen and maintain healthy bones is more crucial than ever. This comprehensive guide will explore the definitions...

06/24/2025

CBD, or cannabidiol, is a natural compound taken from the h**p plant that is gaining widespread attention for its potential health benefits. Unlike THC, CBD is non-psychoactive, meaning it doesn’t cause a “high,” making it a safe and appealing option for many people seeking natural relief. Research and user experiences suggest that CBD may help reduce pain, inflammation, anxiety, and stress, while also improving sleep and supporting overall bodily balance. It works by interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which plays a key role in regulating functions such as mood, immune response, and pain perception. Available in oils, capsules, gummies, and topicals, CBD is used by people of all ages as a gentle, plant-based way to support physical and emotional wellness

The quest for effective pain relief is a journey that many people undertake, and in recent years, CBD (cannabidiol) has emerged as a powerful player in this arena. Unlike THC, CBD doesn’t produce a high, but it interacts with the body's endocannabinoid system (ECS) in remarkable ways that can impr...

06/10/2025

The secrets behind proper breathing

In the world of exercise, we often hear about the importance of proper techniques, fueling our bodies with the right nutrition, and developing a robust workout routine. However, there’s one element that often gets overlooked, yet is crucial to achieving optimal exercise outcomes: breathing!

In this blog post, we’ll explore the powerful role of physical therapy in exercise outcomes and how combining it with effective breathing techniques can lead to better performance, faster recovery, and fewer injuries

Proper breathing is essential for lung health and overall well-being. Many people breathe shallowly, limiting oxygen intake and increasing stress. Breathing exercises improve lung capacity, reduce anxiety, enhance oxygen flow, and support respiratory health. Techniques like diaphragmatic breathing,....

05/30/2025

Discover how poor posture can contribute to TMJ dysfunction and what you can do to prevent it. Your posture impacts more than your back! Read more here: https://wix.to/yRv83V9

Maintaining good posture is essential for overall health, yet many people overlook its significance. Poor posture, particularly slouching and forward head position, can have significant effects on various systems in the body. One area that is often neglected is the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). Res...

05/19/2025

Have you ever felt dizzy or lightheaded when standing up after lying down? This could be a sign of Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS). This condition causes a rapid heart rate when you stand, along with several other symptoms that can significantly impact daily life. In this blog post, we will explore what POTS is, detail its common symptoms, and offer practical management strategies to help you cope effectively.

Have you ever felt dizzy or lightheaded when standing up after lying down? This could be a sign of Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS). This condition causes a rapid heart rate when you stand, along with several other symptoms that can significantly impact daily life. In this blog post,...