Patient Education

Increase your mobility with stretch, self myofascial release and various other techniques geared toward helping you maintain your physical health and ultimately increase your quality of life. Below is a library of resources that you can utilize without ever leaving the comfort of your home. If you have any difficulty viewing our resources please give us a call today at (727) 398-3999.

Stretch Technique Videos

Self Myofascial Release Videos

myofascial release videos link icon — Videos

Ice vs. Heat

When speaking about Ice V.S. Heat we like to use the analogy that Ice V.S. Heat is much like a warm-up before a work out. Before a workout you want to warm up the body to reduce you risk of injury. By warming the body it increases blood flow to the muscles. The “warm” in this example is equivalent to “heat”. When you apply heat to your body, it increases blood flow to that area. Where as ice has the complete opposite effect and slows the blood flow.

During an acute onset and/or exacerbatory period, when pain and inflammation are of concern, ice should be applied to the area. This will cause the body to slow the blood flow the inflamed portion, thus reducing inflammation and pain.

After you progress from the acute phase of care, Dr. Butch might recommend contrast therapy. Contrast Therapy allows you to utilize both heat and ice in your recovery process. Rule of thumb: Always apply the heat first then ice directly afterwards.