| Helpful Hints For ST'rs |
| I learned many helpful tips at the GREAT NSTA symposium in MN and wanted to share some to help us cope with our lives. From Jean Pierre Bleton (Physical Therapist) 1. Try to turn your head away from the side of the torticollis so you are stretching those muscles-in other words,don't keep your head in the position that it wants to assume with the ST but practice turning to the opposite side. 2. Don't wear a surgical collar. 3. Try to keep your shoulders relaxed-doing deep breathing exercises helps. 4. Move slowly and think about your movements trying to keep them as smooth as possible.. 5. Don't stay at home avoiding other people and becoming a recluse which contributes to depression. 6. Don't carry a bag on the shoulder at the side corresponding to the head rotation. 7. When seating in a arm chair,sit comfortably with your head resting on the back and arms on the arm rests. 8. Maintain a corrected head position when watching TV or reading. 9. Lie comfortably on your bed, removing all pillows except a small flat one. If spasms increase when lying, lie in the prone position (tummy down), and turn your head toward the corrected side. 10. Talk with a physical therapist about specific exercises for your type of head rotation. 11. When on the phone, hold the earpiece to the ear opposite your ST. 12. Arrange your desk to help you keep a corrected head position and ask people to sit on that side. This is difficult at first but will become easier. 12. Keep fit by exercising-swimming, walking, yoga. 13. In the car, avoid holding your head, and sit keeping the torso straight. MORE TO COME! VISIT AGAIN! HINTS FOR FILING SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY |