Patrick Donovan, Author at Heather Lane Physical Therapy

‘Why Movement Matters’ during National Physical Therapy Month

The physical therapy profession is incorrectly characterized under the generalized label “rehabilitation.” Denver physical therapist Patrick Donovan is eager to create a wider narrative – one that focuses on physical therapy’s overall ability to change lives by helping people move better. “When it comes down to it, physical therapy is all about making experiences come […]

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Pools offer both fitness, relief for older adults

Exercise, Health content, Uncategorized / Patrick Donovan

While drinking plenty of water is critical to life, health and healing, simply submerging your body in water (i.e., a pool) opens up opportunities for relief and fitness for those who otherwise may have difficulty exercising. This is especially important for aging adults and those with chronic conditions, said Denver physical therapist Patrick Donovan. “When

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weight lifting strength training program

Aging Right: The Undiscovered Benefits of Lifting Weights

Exercise, Health content, knowledge, Uncategorized / Patrick Donovan

Many older adults have weak muscles – due to lack of activity, hospitalization, surgery, or a fall. This can cause problems with walking, balance, and everyday activities. The risk of falls increases consistently as we become weaker. Strength training can combat many of these downfalls of aging, but it most be prescribed properly. The problem

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To Be Hydrated Or Dehydrated? That Is The Question.

Health content, knowledge, Prevention / Patrick Donovan

The Hydration Issue We often underestimate the important role of hydration in our daily lives. As infants, water comprises 75% of our body weight. This percentage reduces to 55% in the elderly population. No matter your age, water is essential for cellular homeostasis and life. During my time in Haiti, I learned that not enough

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Improve Your Balance, Improve Your Life

Arthritis, Balance, knowledge, Prevention / Patrick Donovan

Balance As A Vital Sign Our annual doctor’s check-up is comprehensive – blood pressure, weight, cholesterol levels – are often measured to determine your health profile. But how is your balance measured? Your ability to maintain balance under various situations should also be considered in your health profile. Unfortunately, one out of three older people

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I Tore My Meniscus. Now How Do I Fix It?

knee, Treatment, Uncategorized / Patrick Donovan

What is a Meniscus Anyways? Meniscus lesions account for almost one quarter of all knee injuries. Whether it’s an acute trauma or repetitive chronic degeneration we ask the menisci to cushion the knee. Your menisci mainly function to distribute stress across the knee during weight bearing activity. Injuries to this cartilage impair your ability to

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It’s Not Too Late to Fix Your Bunions

ankle, foot, Treatment / Patrick Donovan

What is a Bunion? A frequent cause of disability from foot pain is the bunion. A bunion typically appears as A bony bump that forms on the base of the big toe. They affect some 35% of women over the age of 65. If left untreated and allowed to progress to its eventual end stage,

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The Best Exercise Approach for Women’s Bone Health

Exercise, Health content, knowledge / Patrick Donovan

The lifetime risk of osteoporotic fractures is very high for women, ranging from 40% to 50%. We found the best exercise prescription to prevent the progression of bone loss, osteoporosis, and fracture in aging females. We break down a comprehensive 2017 study to explain which types of exercise promote excellent bone quality.

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3 Treatment Videos For Your Hunchback Posture

1 Comment / back, knowledge, Prevention, Treatment / Patrick Donovan

What Is “Kyphosis”? The spine is separated into three different regions – cervical, thoracic, and lumbar. Each region has it’s own natural curve. Kyphosis occurs naturally in the middle portion of the spine – the thoracic – and includes your ribs and chest plate. What Can I do About My Hyperkyphosis? Age-related hyperkyphosis is an

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Start the Conversation About Chronic Disease Management

Health content, knowledge, Prevention / Patrick Donovan

Start the Conversation About Your Medication Management “Freedom of choice” is a typical value in the US. So when my health care provider prescribes me a chronic disease medication for, say, high blood pressure, do I yield the rest of my life to a medication? No! This article is about the difficult conversation, asking your

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Author name: Patrick Donovan