Balance and Wellness Center - Frequently Asked Questions
Consult your physician to receive a diagnosis for any of the conditions discussed here. These questions/answers are for educational purposes only, and should not be considered a medical diagnosis.
Q: I have been referred to physical/occupational therapy. Do I have a choice of where to go?
A: Yes! As a client, you have the ultimate decision of who provides you with appropriate physical therapy. Many newer organizations do not accept all of the insurance plans in the area. Also, many agencies use non-licensed personnel to render care. Therefore, you should have a voice in this decision. At Sports Physical Therapy & Rehab Specialists (SPTRS), all of our treating providers are licensed and have many years of experience. SPTRS is also a preferred provider for most, if not all, of the insurance plans in Kenosha and Racine Counties. Please choose SPTRS for guaranteed quality physical therapy.
Carmelo D. Tenuta, PT • click here to e-mail
Q: I have diabetes and have noted numbness in my feet. What suggestions can you give me?
A: Special care must be given to your feet to protect them when you have numbness (diabetic neuropathy):
- Never walk barefoot.
- Inspect your feet daily. Watch for cracks, blisters, calluses, red areas, signs of injury, or infection and check your toes.
- Inspect your socks daily (looking for drainage or blood).
- Inspect the inside of your shoes before putting them on. Check for cracks, wrinkles, or foreign objects.
- Loosen bed sheets at the bottom of the bed, to prevent pressure on your toes.
- Eat a balanced diet and control your blood sugar.
- Avoid tobacco.
- Exercise.
- Avoid heating pads.
- Wear socks at night if your feet are cold.
- File your toe nails straight across and avoid using scissors or nail clippers.
- Wear socks with shoes that fit correctly. Avoid sandals.
Susan Farley, MPT • click here to e-mail
Q: I am trying to make a lifestyle change, so I have begun working out pretty hard 6 days per week. I now have more aches and pains than ever before. What am I doing wrong?
A: Think of your body as you would your dream home. You are likely to have a professional assist in the design of your home, to discuss possible unforeseen pitfalls and suggestions to enhance current floor plans. During the building process, a strong foundation is needed prior to building the frame, and, if the builders are in a hurry, the home will be a disaster. It will ultimately cost more to repair than it took to build. Stop trying to build your “dream home” in such a short time. Plan, prepare, consult with a professional, and SLOWLY begin to build a healthier lifestyle and body.
Lane LaClair, PT, DPT, CSCS • click here to e-mail
Q: When I roll over in bed or tip my head back in the shower I get the spins. What’s going on?
A: More than likely, you have benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), also known as “top shelf” vertigo. This is a condition that is easily treated once properly identified. BPPV affects the function of the inner ear (the vestibular system). Ear “rocks” (calcium crystals) are normally housed in the gravity center of the inner ear, but can become dislodged and then migrate to the motion sensor of the ear, creating an illusion of movement (vertigo). Fortunately, BPPV can be resolved in 1–2 treatments, and, once the ear rocks are dislodged, you will be symptom free.
Jennifer Montemurro, MPT • click here to e-mail
If you have any general questions or are seeking further information, please do not hesitate to contact any of our providers at any location. We are here to help you.