"First, the front office staff will set you up an initial evaluation with a Physical Therapist. The therapist will review the patient's history and goals, allowing them to create a treatment plan. They will measure range of motion and check the strength of the patient's shoulder in order to target areas of weakness. Usually, treatment plans involve the arm bike, pulleys, shoulder shrugs, scap squeezes, and bicep curls. As you get stronger, your therapist will program more advanced exercises to improve shoulder flexibility, strength, and decreased pain. Lastly, your treatment would end with a form of modalities such as a cold pack, moist heat, or interferential current (IFC). We are confident that your commitment to your treatment plan will lead you to a place of strength and mobility." - Latasha Nicholas

​Dry Needling is effective for many medical conditions, it is not for everyone or everything, but when used appropriately it has a very high success rate (typically 75% or >) in regards to improving an individual's signs and symptoms. Dry needling involves the use of sterile, stainless steel non-medicated needles to treat conditions such as headaches, trigger points (painful knots in a dysfunctional muscle), tendinitis, tendinosis (chronic tendonitis/tendon injury), scars tissue build up and nerve injuries. In most patients, there is typically little to no discomfort and bleeding is minimal to none, due to the small size of the needles. There can be soreness for 1 to 2 days after the treatment and possibly a natural systemic "high" secondary to the release of endorphins. Relief can be immediate or occur within 1 to 2 days after treatment. Dry needling treatment should be performed by clinicians who are certified and have a minimum of 50 to 100 hours of hands-on experience. For many conditions, there are no disadvantages but there are some areas that are more delicate which is why clinical experience and training are important. For questions regarding dry needling please call us at 901-7561650 or email questions to the smithclinic@yahoo.com

​As humans, we are made to worship. We long to believe in something bigger than ourselves. Many times, this presents itself in our pursuit of money, fame, success, or any other worldly pleasure. We chase after fleeting happiness, temporary pleasure, or even godly desires that have taken the place of the Giver Himself. The awe factor of each of these quickly diminishes as we realize the emptiness that comes with worshiping the created instead of the Creator. This week, may we stand in awe of the Almighty. He exists to be glorified and our hearts long to be filled with life that only He can give. The nature of God demands our worship and in return, our souls are filled as we experience a glimpse into a restored relationship with our Creator. Through Jesus’ death on the cross, we are able to experience true fulfillment due to the righteousness we receive through him.

"Do all things without grumbling or disputing, that you may be blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and twisted generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world, holding fast to the word of life, so that in the day of Christ I may be proud that I did not run in vain or labor in vain. Even if I am to be poured out as a drink offering upon the sacrificial offering of your faith, I am glad and rejoice with you all. Likewise, you also should be glad and rejoice with me." Phil. 2:14-18

Have you ever stopped to think about the impact your attitude can have on the people around you? We have the ability to choose whether we live a life filled with the joy of the Lord or muddle through, dragging everyone down around us. As Christians, we are called to be a light in the darkness. What better way to stand out in the midst of our culture than to be full of joy, even when the world around us is dark as night. Throughout this week, be aware of your attitude and notice the difference that occurs when you radiate God's glory, power, and hope due to the promise you have in Christ.

Patients that have experienced symptoms related to Covid-19 can display varying side effects after recovery. A physical therapist will assess the patient through an evaluation to determine their baseline and limitations following their illness. Following the virus, some limitations you might notice are decreased cardiovascular endurance, excessive fatigue, difficulty with deep breathing, decreased strength, joint pain, and balance. These ailments can translate into difficulty with returning to daily activities. Physical therapists can aid in improving the patient’s limitations and educate the patient to assist with return to their prior level of activity.
We have also seen patients that were not diagnosed with Covid-19 but are de-conditioned following inactivity over the past year. These patients will also benefit from physical therapy to improve restrictions and return to activity.
-Chris Markham, PTPatients that have experienced symptoms related to Covid-19 can display varying side effects after recovery. A physical therapist will assess the patient through an evaluation to determine their baseline and limitations following their illness. Following the virus, some limitations you might notice are decreased cardiovascular endurance, excessive fatigue, difficulty with deep breathing, decreased strength, joint pain, and balance. These ailments can translate into difficulty with returning to daily activities. Physical therapists can aid in improving the patient’s limitations and educate the patient to assist with return to their prior level of activity.
We have also seen patients that were not diagnosed with Covid-19 but are de-conditioned following inactivity over the past year. These patients will also benefit from physical therapy to improve restrictions and return to activity.
-Chris Markham, PT