Helpful Tools🛠️

Hey there!

Every now again I post on my social media some helpful tools that can help those with MS live feeling more empowered! But, I realized that not everyone may see them since not everyone is on social media! I wanted to take this week's email as an opportunity to share them with you all here. Some you may have heard of already, and some may be new to you & can help in day to day life!🧡

1. The Dictus Band - This is an AFO alternative; an ankle brace used to help reduce your foot drop by lifting up your toes when walking. This will help reduce scuffing of the toes that could potentially lead to increased tripping/falling.

2. "Under Desk" Peddler Bike - I love to use this on TOP of the desk with clients! It serves as a great way to get in cardio exercise, as well as strengthening upper body, and core! Plus this can be done during a time such as watching TV so it is not intruding on your time for other daily tasks.

3. Theragun - If you have spastic or tight muscles, this one is for you! The Theragun is a great tool to help massage, and release tension in your muscles; especially for those who may not have someone who can help with with massaging the areas. And some models come with different acupressure tips for variations of massage. My favorite muscle groups to use this for is the thighs, calfs, and glutes!

4. Leg Lifter - This tool is excellent for days when your muscles are not cooperating, or the fatigue is just too intense! You can use this in a variety of situations such as getting into/out of a car or bed, getting cozy on the couch, or even as an aid in stretching your leg muscles. The length of the lifter is flexible, but sturdy, and the different level hand grasps make it easy to get the perfect hold on the tool.

5. Car cane - Falling backwards into the car can be a real hazard! With the car cane, you can place it in the latch of the door so that you can support yourself as you ease down onto the car seat. This is great for those who have trouble with balance, and/or leg strength. Having control over this motion can prevent possible injury such as hitting your head on the doorframe, or missing the seat entirely.

6. Roll Recovery - If the Theragun isn't quite your speed, this is another great tool that can help reduce muscle tightness specifically for your leg muscles! 

7. Foam Roller - A foam roller is another excellent tool for aiding in the release of tight muscles or spasticity! And what's nice about this tool is that it can be used for many muscle groups all over the body!

8. Naboso Kinesis Board - One the latest tools from Naboso, this board helps aid with foot stimulation, and helps to improve balance by providing a single leg platform. You can always lightly hold on to a surface to start if balancing on one foot feels too unstable! Be sure to use code: DRGRETCHEN10 for 10% off

9. Knee Pillow - Many people struggle with knee kissing, so this pillow is great to help prevent the knees from turning inward when sitting down! Simply place the pillow between your thigh area, down toward the knees, before sitting! Use code: GRETCHENHAWLEY for 10% off

I hope that you have found some NEW products in this bunch that I shared today! Please always remember {{first_name}}, that you are worth the little bit "extra" if it means greater safety! 🧡

Best,

Dr. Gretchen, PT

P.S.

1. Connect with me on YouTube - Subscribe to my Dr. Gretchen YouTube page where you will be able to find MS specific exercises, research updates, guest speakers, and MORE!

2. Join The MSing Link Community - The MSing Link is my online MS wellness program where you'll find video demonstrations and explanations of MS-specific exercises for strengthening, walking, balance, and flexibility. There are also videos for activity-specific movements such as getting into/out of bed or a car, standing up from the ground, sitting down with more control, stair climbing, etc. Since this program focuses on the whole person and not just exercise, we have monthly live guest speakers (ie: neurologists, podiatrists, nutritionists, etc.) and research updates.

3. Work with me privately - I offer wellness consults via Zoom. This is an opportunity for you to share your story with MS and your goals. I'm able to educate you on MS-specific exercises for walking, general mobility, transfers, and day-to-day activities (ie: getting into/out of a car, stair climbing, etc.). You can schedule a one-time call or you can schedule recurring calls - your choice. Oftentimes, people will schedule one of these calls prior to joining The MSing Link and/or one call every couple of months. Schedule here