While it’s expected that most older people tend to slow down with age, the notion that seniors and soon-to-be seniors should trade in exercise and their active lifestyles for bingo and rocking chairs is definitely antiquated, says Philadelphia physical therapist Chris McKenzie. And yet, when it comes to exercise for the 55-and-older population, plenty of … Read more
Finding a workout routine that fits your personality is one of the key ways to achieve optimal results, says Philadelphia physical therapist Chris McKenzie. And, that holds particularly true for introverts – those who may be uneasy about joining a gym or a fitness class due to crowds of people, loud music, or the seemingly … Read more
Digging out boxes of holiday decorations, hauling packages to and from the car, hiding gifts away on the higher shelves at the back of your closet … the Holiday Season certainly requires its fair share of bending, lifting and reaching. This, coupled with the cooler weather, makes December the ideal time for a refresher on … Read more
To the 43 million Americans who have low bone density, putting them at high risk of osteoporosis, Philadelphia physical therapist Chris McKenzie has an important message: exercise is good medicine. But not just any exercise – weight-bearing, muscle-strengthening exercise. “As people get older, bone density certainly becomes an issue for many people, which can lead … Read more
While the profession of physical therapy is often characterized under the generalized label “rehabilitation,” Philadelphia physical therapist Chris McKenzie 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 experiences. … Read more
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 Philadelphia physical therapist Chris McKenzie. “When … Read more
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), high school athletes account for about 2 million injuries and around a half-million doctor visits each year. But few of these injuries, says Philadelphia physical therapist Chris McKenzie, are as costly to a student-athlete and his or her family that a torn ACL. “An ACL … Read more
It turns out our furry friends have more to offer us than companionship and unconditional love. According to Philadelphia physical therapist Chris McKenzie, multiple studies show that dog owners are generally healthier and more likely to meet national fitness benchmarks than non-owners. How likely? According to the American Heart Association, dog owners are 54 percent … Read more
Shoulder pain in older adults often appears suddenly, as if caused by a sudden trauma or injury. But for many, says Philadelphia physical therapist Chris McKenzie, shoulder injuries are often the result of musculoskeletal conditions directly associated with aging and, more specifically, weakening posture. “Some people may think ‘I slept on it wrong’ or ‘I … Read more
With child obesity still an epidemic in the U.S. and reams of research showing both the immediate and long-term benefits of youth exercise, it’s the duty of parents today to make movement and activity a part of kids’ lifestyles, says Philadelphia physical therapist Chris McKenzie. And the first step in teaching kids to be active, … Read more
