From the Houston Chronicle: Cash-strapped states look to cut from Medicaid

States from Rhode Island to California are being forced to curtail Medicaid, the government health insurance program for the poor, as they struggle to cope with the deteriorating economy.

With revenues falling at the same time that more people are losing their jobs and private health coverage, states already have pared their programs and many are looking at deeper cuts for the coming year. Already, 19 states and the District of Columbia have lowered payments to hospitals and nursing homes, eliminated coverage for some treatments and forced some recipients out of the insurance program completely... Click here to read the rest of this article.

Pats on the Back, from November-December 2008 Soundwaves

Congratulations to the following PTs, who completed APTA’s recently developed Advanced Clinical Instructor Education and Credentialing Program on November 8 at the College of St. Catherine: CHRISTI ANDERSON, PAUL BREYEN, MEG ERLANDSON, AARATHI GANGADHARAN, ANN HOFFMAN, MARYSUE INGMAN, SHARON KIMBLE, SONJA MCGILL, DONNA MEDLER, RICK MEWES, MICHELLE PERAULT-BOUGHTON, and HEATHER VANDERWEIDE.  Kudos to you for your leadership in and dedication to clinical teaching!

Thank you to JULIE McDONALD, PTA for organizing the Second Annual PTA Leadership Seminar, held in Maplewood on November 8, 2008. Thanks for your dedication to making this happen for our future PTA leaders!

Thank you to new External Community Relations Committee Chair BROOKE DARST RICE, PT. This committee was formerly known as the Public Relations Committee. Brooke brings a PR background to the table and we are thankful she is sharing her expertise with MN APTA!

Many thanks to KRISTINE GREER, PT and KATIE GRIFFITH, PT, for their leadership in what was another successful Bear Tracks 5K/10K Run/Walk, held on November 1, 2008 in White Bear Lake. Thank you, also, to the many BEAR TRACKS WORKGROUP MEMBERS and VOLUNTEERS who helped plan, set up, and execute the Run/Walk for the 258 participants. Thank you so much for your community outreach!

Thank you to outgoing CE Chair LAURA FRANCO, PT, who has led the CE Subcommittee for the past two years.  She has overseen the successful execution of 22 MN APTA CE courses, on subjects as diverse as pediatrics, geriatrics, orthopedics, and neurologic.  Thank you for your professional dedication in leading this group over the past two years.

Thanks to new CE Co-Chairs HILLIARI OLSON, PT and REBECCA VOGSLAND, PT, who will begin leading the CE Subcommittee in January 2009. Thank you for leading!

Thank you to Fall Conference Lead BART HANSON, PT, Conference Subcommittee Chair LYNNE FARRELL, PT, and CONFERENCE SUBCOMMITTEE MEMBERS for planning and implementing a very successful Fall Conference on October 10-11 in Rochester.   We had 200 attendees, which may be a record!  What a great way to network and learn at the same time!  Thanks for your hard work on this very successful conference.

Thank you to new Quality Improvement Education and Training Workgroup Lead DEBBIE HANKA, PT, who will lead a group of volunteers who will canvas the state to bring us seminars on professionalism and quality practice.  Watch for course opportunities near you, or call the MN APTA chapter office to let us know if you would like to help bring a course to your area!

Thank you to Quality Improvement Coordinator DEB MADANAYAKE, PT and to the 27 PTs trained (or re-trained) in Peer Review this fall. Deb is helping MN APTA's Professional Practice Division reorganize how we do peer and professional practice reviews.  Wow! 

Thanks to TREVOR CARLSON, PT and to MEMBERS OF THE RESEARCH COMMITTEE for organizing eleven Fall Conference poster presentations.  What a great way to read about research being performed in Minnesota and to have an opportunity to ask questions of the researchers.  This is professionalism in action!

Many thanks to new Health Care Reform Workgroup Lead KATIE BLOYER, SPT, who will help this workgroup take an active role in advocating on behalf of physical therapy in Minnesota. Thanks Katie for jumping in with both feet!

Thank you to ERIN SIMUNDS, PT, who has agreed to lead a yet-to-be-named workgroup that will do strategic planning and advocacy that will more strongly link us to the disability community, both in pubic policy arena and the reimbursement arena.  Thanks for helping us with the STG and LTG!

Thanks to new Website Watcher NICK SCHNEIDER, SPT--Website Watchers like Nick will help MN APTA committees and workgroups improve their webpages by monitoring the MN APTA website for out-of-date content and new opportunities in communication. Contact the MN APTA chapter office if YOU want to be a Website Watcher, too!

Pats on the Back, from September-October 2008 Soundwaves

Thank you to the 35 Board of Directors Members, Committee Chairs, and Workgroup Leads who met at the Coordinating Council Meeting September 23 to discuss the implementation of MN APTA's strategic plan. Moving forward as a professional association doesn't just 'happen'--it takes dialogue, communication, and hard work. Thank you for taking time out of your busy schedules! A special thank you to BROOKE DARST RICE, PT and CRYSTAL MAURER-MARKFORT, PT, who stepped up as New Professionals (those PTs/PTAs with 0-5 years practice experience) in attending the Coordinating Council Meeting.

Thank you to DEBRA SELLHEIM, PT and BECKY OLSON-KELLOGG, PT, who finished their terms on the MN APTA Board of Directors in June 2008. Their active involvement with chapter activities helped build the work of the chapter committees for which they served as liaisons.

Much thanks to ANN RYAN, PT, who again led the Minnesota State Fair Workgroup this year. Ann's leadership, enthusiasm, and attention to detail helped make the event a great success!

Thank you to MARYSUE INGMAN, PT, who provided assistance regarding health and wellness issues to the Consumer Access Bill Workgroup as it prepared for this fall's Direct Access Seminars.

Thank you to MN APTA's new Committee and Workgroup Chairs: BROOKE DARST RICE, PT (Public Relations Committee), LIZ SCHORN, PT (Chiropractic Workgroup), JACI SAMES, PT (Athletic Training Workgroup), and DEBBIE HANKA, PT (QI Education and Training Workgroup). By dividing the chapter's work, we make it more manageable--thank you for taking the lead in these groups!

Thank you to KATIE BLOYER, SPT, ANNE REDMON, SPT, and BRITTNEY JOHNSON, SPT, who served on the Consumer Access Bill Workgroup and are now helping plan and implement this fall's Direct Access Seminars.

Sept. 19, 2008

< Back to top

From ABC 7 San Francisco: Therapist revolutionizes cancer recovery

If you or anyone you know is at risk for developing breast cancer then you'll want to pay close attention to our next story. A San Francisco physical therapist is revolutionizing recovery from breast cancer surgery. She's become so good at it, that doctors and surgeons are now taking note.

Some people will tell you physical therapist Julie Wong is a miracle worker. Client Debbie Calgaro is one of them. During Calgaro's mastectomy in April, some of her abdominal muscles were removed to be used for breast reconstruction. Click here to view the video clip.

Sept. 7, 2008

< Back to top

CHERI WARE, PT and DONNA LAAKSO, PT of North Country Peak Performance in Bemidji were featured in a September 7 Bemidji Pioneer article titled "Bemidji Women's Expo proves to be a big hit;" Cheri and Donna discussed using the Wii Fit system as a balance tool at the Expo and in their everday practice.

Sept. 2008

< Back to top

< Back to top

Pats on the Back, from July-August 2008 Soundwaves

Congrats to KRIS COYLE, PT, who received the 2008 Integrated Clinical Education Faculty Award from the DPT Program at the College of St. Catherine on June 19.   Kris was selected for this honor by the St. Kate’s DPT Class of 2010 on the basis of her outstanding contributions as clinical faculty during the first-year students’ part-time clinical education experiences in acute care at the University of Minnesota Fairview this past academic year.  Thanks, Kris, for being a leader and role model for DPT students! 

JESSICA SOLBERG, PTA, is a 2008 recipient of Recognition of Advanced Proficiency for the Physical Therapist Assistant in musculoskeletal physical therapy.  Jessica is faculty assistant to the DPT and PTA programs at the College of St. Catherine in Minneapolis.  Thanks, Jessica, for all that you do for our profession!

Congratulations to IN TOUCH PHYSICAL THERAPY of Owatonna for meeting APTA’s Facility Challenge—In Touch has 100% APTA membership among all PT and PTA staff!

Congratulations to the MAYO SCHOOL OF HEALTH SCIENCES for their excellent fundraising efforts—Mayo received an honorable mention in the 20th Marquette Challenge. 

Congratulations to KATRINA BEACK, PTA, of Foley.  Katrina received the Advance Proficiency for the Physical Therapist Assistant Award from the American Physical Therapy Association.  This award is designed to acknowledge a physical therapist assistant for the achievement of an advanced level of proficiency within a specified area of physical therapy: Musculoskeletal; Neuromuscular, Integumentary and Cardiovascular and Pulmonary.  Katrina was recognized for the musculoskeletal area.

< Back to top

From PT Magazine: Peering into the future
Featuring Linda Farrell, PT, MA (MN APTA member since 1990)

Peer checks. At Lake Superior College in Duluth, Minnesota, second-year SPTAs are paired with first-year SPTAs. Each pair is joined by an SPT from a neighboring school, and the resulting trios (supervised by PTs and PTAs) work together as teams in the school's onsite physical therapy clinic. "What we have found," says instructor LINDA FARRELL, PT, MA, "is that when the first- and second-year PTA students initially build a relationship in this way, they are much more likely to forge a strong mentor-mentee bond and form friendships outside of class."

"I often have student mentors serve as peer checkers," Farrell says. "For example, I'll give second-year students a score sheet and have them assess first-years' competence on tasks such as tilt table use." Click here to read the entire article.

June 2008

< Back to top

Pats on the Back, from May-June 2008 Soundwaves:

PAUL NIEMUTH, PT, ATC, has been appointed to the Minnesota Athletic Trainer Advisory Council.  MN APTA had written a letter of recommendation on his behalf. Congratulations Paul—with your expertise and education, you will do a great job!

BARBARA BAUM, PT, MS, has been reappointed as the physical therapist representative on DOLI’s MSRB. Thanks for renewing your appointment with this board!

ROBIN PETERSON, PT, has been reappointed as a physical therapist alternate on the Medical Services Review Board. Thanks for representing the professional and for all of your years of service!

GAIL SMIDA, PT, and ROBIN PETERSON, PT, presented to the 4th District Minnesota Nurses Association on January 29.  They were asked to present information on how to keep nurses safe and fit in their work.  Thanks to Gail and Robin for presenting this and for doing your part to help build relationships with other health care organizations.

LOIS FULTON, SPT, received the Mary McMillan Scholarship Award—Professional Education Level.  Lois attends the College of Saint Catherine. Congratulations, Lois!

LYNDSEY VANDENBERG, SPT, received the Mary McMillan Scholarship Award—Professional Education Level.  Lyndsey attends the Mayo Clinic School of Health Sciences. Congratulations, Lyndsey!

MARTHA SWANSON, SPTA, received the Mary McMillan Scholarship Award—Physical Therapist Assistant Level.  Martha attends the College of St. Catherine.  Congratulations, Martha!

HEIDI DUNFEE, PT, received the Signe Brunnström Award for Excellence in Clinical Teaching.  This award acknowledges individuals who have made significant contributions to clinical education through excellence in teaching, serving as a role model in clinical teaching, and who have demonstrated expertise in at least one area of practice.  Congratulations, Heidi—we appreciate all of the hard work and dedication that you put toward our profession!

< Back to top

MN APTA Announces 2008 MN APTA Award Winners!

Marilyn Woods Long Term Service Award: JUDY TAPLIN, PT

Corrinne Ellingham Outstanding Service Award: BECKY OLSON-KELLOGG, PT

Friend of Physical Therapy: US Rep. Jim Ramstad, MN 3rd Congressional District

Outstanding PT and PTA Students: KATHLEEN BLUM, SPTA (St. Catherine); GAIL CANNON, SPTA (Lake Superior); LORI GLASER, SPTA (Anoka Ramsey); AMANDA LAMPI, SPT (St. Scholastica); BROOKE DARST RICE, SPT (UMN); LYNDSEY VANDENBERG, SPT (Mayo); RACHEL VOHS, SPT (St. Catherine)

< Back to top

Pats on the Back, from March-April 2008 Soundwaves:

Thank you to HEIDI DUNFEE, PT, for volunteering as Secretary of the APTA Education Section. Thanks, Heidi, for all that you do for our profession!

CHERYL ANDERSON, PT, and KRIS GJERDE, PT, presented Stand Up and Be Strong! A Community-Based Program For Powerful Aging at the APTA Combined Sections Meeting (CSM) in Nashville in February.  Thanks, Kris and Cheryl—you did a wonderful job!

DEBRA SELLHEIM, PT, and MARY WEDDLE, PT, presented Teachers Talk Less—Students Learn More: Tutorials as a Portal to Thinking Like a Vision 2020 Practitioner at CSM in Nashville.  Great job!

KAYLA PLEGGENKUHLE, PT, was on the “Lori and Julia” show on FM 107.1, on February 7. She provided the correct information on how to perform Kegel Exercises.  What a great opportunity to highlight PT in an area not too many people think about!  Thanks, Gayla!

< Back to top

From Physical Therapy: Gaze control and foot kinematics during stair climbing: Characteristics leading to fall risk in progressive supranuclear palsy
Authors include RICK DI FABIO, PT (APTA member since 2005)

Di Fabio, R., Zampieri, C., Tuite, P. (2008). Gaze control and foot kinematics during stair climbing: Characteristics leading to fall risk in progressive supranuclear palsy. Physical Therapy 88(2), 240-250.

Abstract: Background and Purpose: Does gaze control influence lower-extremity motor coordination in people with neurological deficits? The purpose of this study was to determine whether foot kinematics during stair climbing are influenced by gaze shifts prior to stair step initiation. Subjects and Methods: Twelve subjects with gaze palsy (mild versus severe) secondary to progressive supranuclear palsy were evaluated during a stair-climbing task in a cross-sectional study of mechanisms influencing eye-foot coordination. Infrared oculography and electromagnetic tracking sensors measured eye and foot kinematics, respectively. The primary outcome measures were vertical gaze fixation scores, foot lift asymmetries, and sagittal-plane foot trajectories. Results: The subjects with severe gaze palsy had significantly lower lag foot lift relative to lead foot lift than those with a mild form of gaze palsy. The lag foot trajectory for the subjects with severe gaze palsy tended to be low, with a heading toward contact with the edge of the stair. Subjects with severe gaze palsy were 28 times more likely to experience "fixation intrusion" (high vertical gaze fixation score) during an attempted shift of gaze downward than those with mild ocular motor deficits (odds ratio [OR]=28.3, 95% confidence interval [CI]=6.4–124.8). Subjects with severe gaze shift deficits also were 4 times more likely to have lower lag foot lift with respect to lead foot lift than those with mild ocular motor dysfunction (OR=4.0, 95% CI=1.7–9.7). Discussion and Conclusion: The small number of subjects and the variation in symptom profiles make the generalization of findings preliminary. Deficits in gaze control may influence stepping behaviors and increase the risk of trips or falls during stair climbing. Neural and kinematic hypotheses are discussed as possible contributing mechanisms.

< Back to top

From PT Magazine: Employee Incentives: A delicate balance
Featuring Paul Treinen, PT (MN APTA member since 1987)

PAUL TREINEN, PT, of Big Stone Therapies in Ortonville, Minnesota, started an incentive program for his 100 employees in 2004. He explains, "I wanted to improve employee morale and at the same time maybe improve our bottom line. But I wanted to make sure I slept well at night and didn't compromise patient care." Click here to read the entire article.

< Back to top

From PT Magazine: Addressing a critical need in veteran affairs
Featuring Jeffrey Newman, PT (MN APTA member since 1976)

In October 2007, APTA member JEFFREY NEWMAN, PT, testified before the House Veterans Affairs Committee's Subcommittee on Health, which had gathered to scrutinize the VA's problems recruiting and retaining professionals in the various health care disciplines and the competition it faces from the private sector. Newman, Federal Affairs Liaison to APTA's Federal Section and chief of the physical therapy department at the Minneapolis VA Medical Center, recapped the problem and made several recommendations to the committee. Click here to read the entire article.

< Back to top

Pats on the Back, from January-February 2008 Soundwaves:

Thanks to EVA NORMAN, PT, for arranging and leading meetings with Senators Coleman and Klobuchar; and to KATHLEEN PICARD, PT, KATIE BLOYER, SPT, CRAIG JOHNSON, PT, MARK NETZINGER, PT, ALANA HOWEY, PT and JUDY HAWLEY, PT, who went to either or both of the meetings.  Both senators signed on to the Repeal the Cap bill right after these meetings!

Thanks to MARGOT MILLER, PT, who has agreed to be our chapter representative to an OSHA Region 5 workgroup led by APTA.  Thanks, Margot.

Thanks to PAULA LUDEWIG, PT, who is an associate editor for JOSPT.  Thank you for your work in making this an excellent publication!

Thanks to CORT CIEMINSKI, PT, WARD GLASOE, PT, JENA OGSTON, PT, who served as manuscript reviewers for JOSPT for 2007.  Thanks!

Thanks to RACHEL KATSKEE, PTA, for leading the Toys for Tots Workgroup this year.  The workgroup brought dozens of toys to the KARE-11 studios and were seen on the 10 PM news on December 14, 2007.  Thank, Rachel!

< Back to top

From the Journal of Dance Medicine & Science: The relationship between ankle sprain and ankle tendinitis in ballet dancers
Authors include MARJORIE MOORE, PT (MN APTA member since 1986)

Ritter, S., Moore, M. (2008). The relationship between ankle sprain and ankle tendinitis in ballet dancers. Journal of Dance Medicine & Science, 12(1), 23-31.

Abstract: The lateral ligament complex of the ankle is the most frequently injured structure in the body. Although most simple ankle sprains do not result in long-term disability, a significant number do not completely resolve, leading to residual symptoms that may persist for years. The most commonly reported symptoms, particularly among athletes, include instability, re-injury, and tendinitis. Ballet dancers are a combination of artist and high-performance athlete; consequently, they are subjected to the same types of injuries as other athletes, including lateral ankle sprains and their sequelae. Furthermore, ballet dancers perform in unusual positions such as en pointe, which places the ankle in extreme plantar flexion, requiring stabilization by surrounding muscles. Dancers' extraordinary performance demands place them at risk for other ankle injuries as well, including inflammation of several tendons, especially the peroneals...

< Back to top

From GeriNotes (APTA Geriatric Section): Pharmacology case report: Fibromyalgia Syndrome
By SARA KYLANDER-JOHNSON, PT (MN APTA member since 1995)

Kylander-Johnson, S. (2008). Pharmacology case report: Fibromyalgia Syndrome. GeriNotes 15(2), 23.

< Back to top

From Orthopedic PT Practice Magazine (APTA Orthopedic Section): Shoulder Mobility in String Musicians
Authors include TERRY BUISMAN, PT (MN APTA member since 1992), LINSEY HAMILTON, PT, DPT (MN APTA member since 2003)

Buisman, T., Hamilton, L., Rasser, R., Horvath, J. (2008). Orthopedic PT Practice Magazine 20(1), 21-24. (Note: You must be an APTA Ortho Section Member to see this page)

Abstract: Background: String musicians partake in repetitive midrange activity of the shoulder on the bowing arm which may put them at risk for shoulder dysfunction. Objective: The purpose of this study is to assess the glenohumeral capsular mobility in string musicians and to describe selfmobilization techniques to restore capsular mobility. Methods: Thirty one professional string musicians underwent measurement of bilateral shoulder range of motion and neural mobility. Data were analyzed for differences between right and left as well as between musicians with and without prior or current right upper extremity dysfunction. Results: A significant decline in combined extension/internal rotation was noted in the bowing arm for all participating musicians. Additionally, an increase in right radial nerve mobility was documented in musicians with right upper extremity dysfunction as compared to the left. Conclusion: With 35% of string musicians in this study reporting pain in the bowing arm, further research to investigate the effects of a restorative program for shoulder mobility in this population is warranted.

< Back to top

From the Journal of Dance Medicine & Science: Golgi tendon organs: Neuroscience update with relevance to stretching and proprioception in dancers
By MARJORIE MOORE, PT (MN APTA member since 1986)

Moore, M. (2007). Golgi tendon organs: Neuroscience update with relevance to stretching and proprioception in dancers. Journal of Dance Medicine & Science 11(3), 85-92.

Abstract: This article reviews the neuroscience of the Golgi tendon organ, a type of muscle sensory receptor. The intent is also to update and correct erroneous notions regarding its functional significance, particularly related to its involvement in reflexes, proprioception, and stretching techniques used in dance training. Historical research about the function of the Golgi tendon organ (GTO) has led to four erroneous views: 1. The GTO serves a protective function by responding only to muscle tension at the extreme end-range of motion; 2. Sensations from GTOs do not reach the cerebral cortex and therefore serve no role in conscious proprioception and kinesthesia; 3. The GTO and its reflex circuit (autogenic inhibition) prevent its muscle from contracting by "turning it off"; and 4. During contract-relax stretching, the GTO autogenic inhibition reflex circuit is responsible for the muscle relaxation phase and the accompanying increased range of motion. Recent research has shown that these early views are inaccurate. There is new evidence regarding the role of the GTO. 1. A GTO responds to even weak active contractions throughout the range of motion, although GTOs are much less sensitive to passive tension than to active tension. 2. GTO sensations probably do reach the cerebral cortex, buried in the fissure between the motor and sensory cortex "strips." This information allows dancers to know where their limbs are in space. GTOs also provide unconscious proprioception, via the cerebellum, which helps dancers to learn new motor skills and improve execution of movements. 3. The GTO and its reflex (autogenic inhibition) reduce, but do not shut off, the excitability of the motor neuron and its innervated muscle. The ultimate reflex effect depends on the sum of multiple other inputs on the motor neuron. GTO input may reduce muscle activity, but does not "turn it off." 4. During contract-relax stretching, the GTO autogenic reflex creates inhibition that lasts only as long as...

< Back to top

Pats on the Back, from November-December 2007 Soundwaves:

Thanks to THANA ROSS, PT, and ANN RYAN, PT, who each visited Senator Klobuchar’s office during family trips to Washington DC in October/November, and spoke with a legislative assistant about the therapy cap and the physician fee schedule.  Thanks to Ann and Thana for advocating on behalf of our profession.

Thanks to MALCOLM MACAULAY, PT and WARD GLASOE, PT, for presentations made at North Central Arthritis Foundation’s Fall CARE Conference on October 6.  Malcolm’s presentation was titled “Orthopedics: Prevention, Replacement and Treatments,” and Ward was on a panel that presented “Let’s Talk Research.”  Thank you for representing our profession.

Thanks to JONI PURRINGTON, PT, and JONATHAN REYNOLDS, PT, for exhibiting at the Springboard for the Arts' Health Fair for Artists on November 3.  Joan did falls prevention screening and handed out general information about physical therapy—who we are and what we do.  Jonathan promoted his practice, which includes treating artists in vocal and instrumental music and dance, as well as sculptors and painters.

Thanks to SARAH NOONAN, PT, who hosted an open house and falls prevention screening at an Emerald Crest Facility on October 15 (through her private practice, Health Esteem Services Inc.), in conjunction with National PT Month.  Thanks for getting the word out abut physical therapy!

Thanks to CINDY FINKE, PT, who hosted a National PT Month open house at her private practice, Minnesota Sport and Spine Rehab Clinic, on October 24.  Good food and good conversation was had by all!

< Back to top

Pats on the Back, from September-October 2007 Soundwaves:

Thanks to STEPHANIE VANDOVER, PT, for coordinating MN APTA’s campaign fundraisers.  MN APTA has held fundraisers for Senator Linda Berglin, and Representatives Paul Thissen, Erin Murphy, Tom Huntley, Brad Finstad, and Julie Bunn.  Thank you to the many, many members who have given individual donations to these campaigns.  It is critically important that we financially support the campaigns of legislators who support us!

Thanks to MARGOT MILLER, PT, who was a valuable resource for MN APTA’s State Fair handout titled “Physical Therapist Tips for Handheld Users,” as well as associated training materials.  Thanks, Margot, for sharing your expertise!

Thanks to the 17 corporate and individual sponsors who donated between $100 and $500 to support the MN APTA booth at the Minnesota State Fair!  Donations helped pay for professional APTA polo shirts for volunteers, pencils and fans to hand out to booth visitors, and other supplies to help keep the MN APTA booth well-stocked!  Thanks to: Bethesda Rehabilitation Hospital, BODYWORKS Physical Therapy, Capernaum Physical Therapy, DSI Work Solutions, Excel Physical Therapy, Fairview Rehab Services, Ham Lake Physical Therapy, In Touch Physical Therapy, Institute for Athletic Medicine, MultiCenter Physical Therapy, Jon Nordrum, PT, Northern Star Therapy, Regions Rehabilitation Institute, Ridgeview Rehab Specialties, Saint Mary's Duluth Clinic, Sister Kenny Rehabilitation Institute, and Soderberg Physical Therapy.  Thank you for your financial partnership!

Thanks to the 120 PTs, PTAs, and PT/PTA students who volunteered at our booth at the MN State Fair—what a great turnout, and what enthusiastic volunteers!  Thank you for helping tell the public who we are and what we do!

Thanks to DOUG MERZ, PT, who successfully completed his second Minnesota Border to Border Triathlon (B2B).  Together with his three teammates from The Marsh- A Center for Balance and Fitness, Doug completed the four-day, 530 mile relay-style race on July 28.  The B2B is a unique and grueling competition starting in Luverne in the southwest corner of the state, and ending in Crane Lake, near the Canadian border.  The team concept and having to develop strategies to maximize team potential is what makes the race unique.  Despite the smell of the van on day 4, Doug plans on entering the B2B again in the future.

< Back to top

From Volunteers Insurance Service Connections: Fitness screening for older drivers
By CHERYL ANDERSON, PT (MN APTA member since 1977)

Driving is an important activity of daily living for many older Americans. Having and keeping a driver’s license is a quality-of-life indicator for many, and often enhances self-esteem.

However, there is no doubt that older drivers do present a public health safety issue. Car crashes are the second leading cause of injury-related deaths (falls are first) among adults aged 65 to 74 (Centers For Disease Control, 1999). Due to frailty, older drivers have a higher fatality rate per mile driven than any other age group except for drivers under 25 (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 2005). Click here to read this issue in PDF form.

< Back to top

From the American Journal of Sports Medicine: Differences in 3-dimensional shoulder kinematics between persons with multidirectional instability and asymptomatic controls
By JENA OGSTON, PT (MN APTA member since 1994) and PAULA LUDEWIG, PT (MN APTA member since 1985)

Ogston, J., Ludewig, P. (2007) Differences in 3-dimensional shoulder kinematics between persons with multidirectional instability and asymptomatic controls. American Journal of Sports Medicine 35, 1631-1370.

Abstract: Background: Evidence that persons with multidirectional instability (MDI) of the shoulder have abnormal shoulder kinematics is limited. A kinematic description of scapulothoracic and glenohumeral motion can assist both conservative and surgical rehabilitative programs. Hypothesis: Persons with MDI of the shoulder demonstrate increased anterior and inferior glenohumeral translation and decreased scapular upward rotation and increased scapular internal rotation compared with age-matched and gender-matched asymptomatic controls. Study Design: Controlled laboratory study. Methods: Sixty-two subjects were recruited from an outpatient orthopaedic clinic. Subjects with MDI were matched according to age, gender, and hand dominance to asymptomatic controls. An electromagnetic motion capture system evaluated the 3-dimensional position of the trunk, scapula, and humerus during frontal and scapular plane elevation. A repeated measures analysis of variance evaluated joint positions and glenohumeral translations during 4 phases of elevation (0°–30°, 31°–60°, 61°–90°, and 91°–120°). Results: When averaged across the 4 phases of elevation, persons with MDI demonstrated a significant decrease in scapular upward rotation in scapular plane abduction (8°, P = .006) and abduction (5.8°, P = .016) and increased internal rotation during scapular plane abduction (12.2°, P = .03). Alterations in glenohumeral translations in the MDI group did not reach statistical significance (P = .54–.71). Conclusion: Abnormal scapular kinematics are seen in the MDI shoulder, highlighting the importance of incorporating scapular positioning and stability exercises during rehabilitation. Additional study is warranted concerning the efficacy of various rehabilitation programs, and also both surgical and nonsurgical interventions in this population.

< Back to top

Pats on the Back, from July-August 2007 Soundwaves:

Thanks to JOAN BOHMERT, PT, who just finished her term on the APTA Board of Directors (BOD).  We cannot calculate the number of hours you put into your work on the BOD, but we know it was huge!  Our profession has advanced so much during your tenure on the BOD.  Thank you so much for your service to our profession.

Thanks to Nominating Committee Members CARLA TOCKO, PT and JASON HELLING, PT, and to 2007 Nominating Chair LINDA FARRELL, PT, for slating the 2007 MN APTA ballot.  There is a tremendous amount of work that goes into this activity, and they did an extraordinary job.  Thanks!

Thanks to the Consumer Access Bill (CAB) Workgroup, who oversaw the direct access legislation this year: SARAH WALKER, PT (workgroup lead); JOAN BOHMERT, PT (issue lead); LAURA GILCHRIST, PT (research lead); CRAIG JOHNSON, PT (BOD liaison); CARINA LOWRY, PT (recorder); RANDY MORRIS (lobbyist); EVA NORMAN, PT (grassroots coordinator); KATHLEEN PICARD, PT (communications lead); SARAH PSICK (lobbyist); KATHRYN BLOYER, SPT; ALANA HOWEY, PT; JON NORDRUM, PT; SUSAN PRIEM, PT; ANN RYAN, PT; STEPHANIE VANDOVER, PT; DANIEL WOLFE, PT; KRIS GJERDE, PT (staff); and JUDY HAWLEY, PT (staff).  Also, for all your efforts this year, thank you to all of the prime contacts, key contacts, students, hearing attendees, and those who contacted their legislators. We have momentum to carry on!

Thanks to JAN HALEY, PTA, who staffed the physical therapy booth at the American Parkinson’s Disease Association Spring Conference on April 28, 2007.  The booth was a four-hour opportunity to share who we are and what we do.  Thanks, Jan!

Thanks to JUDY TAPLIN, PT, who won Bethesda Rehabilitation Hospital’s 2007 Volunteer of the Year Award, as chosen by her volunteer peers.  Judy volunteers at MN APTA once a week as well, and we couldn’t be more proud of her.

Congratulations to SARA BRYAN, PT, Outgoing Conference Committee Co-chair and current Conference Committee member, and her husband upon the birth of their first son, Maxwell!  Mother, father, and baby are doing well. 

BARBARA BAUM, PT, spoke about “The Aging Workforce and Implications for Workplace Safety” on Fairview’s On Call radio program on WCCO on July 8, 2007.  You can listen to the interview by visiting the WCCO website.  Thanks for keeping PT in the public eye! 

DEIDRE LINDSTROM, PT, was featured in the May 16 Swift County Monitor News after winning MN APTA’s Outstanding Student Award.  Way to shine, Deidre!

MARGO FURCHT, PT, was featured in the June 25 Cook County Star article “Physical therapist competes for a cause.”  Margo has been fundraising and training to compete in this summer’s Sawtooth Mountain Challenge Bike & Trail Run as a representative of the National Arthritis Foundation’s Joints in Motion Training Team.

KATHLEEN PICARD, PT, wrote an article for the February 2007 issue of Minnesota Physician titled “Management of soft tissue injuries: Helping patients stay active while they heal.”  Good information and good press for physical therapy!

< Back to top

From PT Magazine: Support lines
By KELLY WITTNEBEL, PTA (MN APTA member since 1994)

Many things motivate physical therapist assistants (PTAs) to grow in the profession and reach their full potential, but making those things happen is so much easier when your employers-in my case, two outstanding physical therapists (PTs)-steadfastly support you and encourage you to use and develop your education and skills in ways that are beneficial to patients and personally rewarding as well. Click here to read the entire article.

< Back to top

From the Minneapolis Star-Tribune: Health + Fitness: Staying up to par
Featuring Jeremiah Hales, PT (MN APTA member since 1999)

JEREMIAH HALES, PT knows that the phone call is coming, and he almost can predict what the caller will say: "With summer finally here, I grabbed my golf clubs for the first time since last September and went out to play. By the time I reached the 16th hole, I was exhausted, my hamstrings were on fire, my shoulder seized up and I might have displaced my hip." The good news is that Hales and his fellow physical therapists at Body Balance for Performance probably can fix... Click here to download article (for a fee) from the Star-Tribune archives.

< Back to top

MN APTA Announces 2007 MN APTA Award Winners!

Marilyn Woods Long Term Service Award: MARILYN WOODS, PT

Corrinne Ellingham Outstanding Service Award: DAN WOLFE, PT

Friend of Physical Therapy: Andy Moore, TheraTech, Inc.

Outstanding PT and PTA Students: MEAGAN BINENSTOCK, SPT (UMN); AMBER DANIELSON, SPTA (Anoka Ramsey); RACHEL KATSKEE, SPTA (St. Catherine); DEIDRE LINDSTROM, SPT (St. Catherine); REBECCA NETH, SPT (Mayo)

< Back to top

From the Minneapolis Star Tribune: Elder Bush has hip replaced at Mayo

Hours after attending Gerald Ford's funeral, former President George H.W. Bush underwent surgery to replace his right hip, the Mayo Clinic announced Thursday, a day after the procedure was performed.

< Back to top

From College of St. Catherine Alumni Newsletter SCAN: Transforming the PT curriculum
by CORT CIEMINSKI, PT, College of St. Catherine DPT Program Director (MN APTA member since 1986)

In my time here at the College I have now seen 13 graduating classes of physical therapy (PT) students. I often wondered to myself if they were prepared enough for the fast-paced changes that await them in the world of modern health care. Whil ethe Master of Physical Therapy (MPT) program started at the College in 1991, it was in the late 1990s that the MPT faculty began to explore the possibility of moving to a clinical doctorate degree. Click here to read the entire article in PDF form.

< Back to top

MN APTA Physical Therapist Rides from Mpls to Texas!

ANNEMIEK SISTERMANS, PT (MN APTA member since 1996) is celebrating five years of being cancer-free by riding from Minneapolis to Austin, TX to participate in the Lance Armstrong Challenge. Read about her journey at her blog or at WCCO.com!

< Back to top

MN APTA Announces 2006 MN APTA Award Winners!

Outstanding Physical Therapist Assistant: LAURA KLATT, PT

Friend of Physical Therapy: Don Sheffield

Outstanding PT and PTA Students: KAT AHRENS, SPT (St. Scholastica); ASHLEY BUSCH, SPTA (Anoka Ramsey); DAVID ENNEKING, SPT (St. Catherine); JASON LUNDEN, SPT (UMN); MARY PUDER, SPTA (St. Catherine)

< Back to top

From Money Magazine and CNNMoney.com: Don't let pain get in your way

The truth hurts. What's the No. 1 cause of disability in the U.S.? It's not heart disease (despite the 1.2 million heart attacks that will show up in the E.R. this year). Nor is it addiction (despite the 1.1 million people in drug and alcohol rehab). The answer: chronic pain, affecting 50 million Americans.

The truth is also expensive. Chronic pain reduces your productivity at work (to the collective tune of more than $60 billion a year) and may force you to take time off (25% of all sick days are related in one way or another to pain complaints), not to mention the crimp it puts in your tennis game. But while the recent disappearance of popular prescription painkillers like Vioxx and Bextra from the market has made some aspects of pain management more challenging, the following low-cost, alternative approaches may prove even more effective in the long run. Click here to read the entire article.

< Back to top

Workers Comp. Reimbursement Methodology Change

The mechanism for reimbursement in the Minnesota Workers Comp system has changed as of October 1, 2005. Read more...

< Back to top

New Listserv!

APTA has created a Cross-Cultural and International Listserv! Click here for details

< Back to top

JAN HALEY, PT, wins APTA 2005 Outstanding PTA Award

Jan has always been highly thought of and respected within APTA and amongst her peers and coworkers. Jan inspires patients, students and co-workers to achieve their optimal potential either as a patient or a professional. Please join us in congratulating Jan on this award. She was honored at the APTA National Conference in Boston on June 5, 2005.

< Back to top

MICHAEL BORICH, SPT, wins APTA 2005 Mary McMillian Scholarship Award

The American Physical Therapy Association is proud to announce that Micheal Borich, University of Minnesota class of 2005, has been awarded the Mary McMillian Scholarship Award at the Physical therapist professional education level. The purpose of the Mary McMillian Scholarship Award is to acknowledge and honor outstanding physical therapy students. The scholarship program contributes to the growth of physical therapy as a profession by recognizing individuals with superior capabilities. It is based on (1) superior scholastic performance, (2) past productivity, (3) evidence of potential contribution to physical therapy. The award included recognition at the National APTA Conference in June 2005.