The Physio Diary

Introduction In our previous post , we explored how certain play activities can lead to injuries in children. Today, we're sharing a hands-on guide to help you care for a child living with Erb’s Palsy—especially when it’s present from birth. This post will empower you with simple but important steps to support your child’s recovery from home; and even after Physiotherapy visits.  Materials Needed Safe baby toys (rattles, soft balls) Journal or notepad to track progress Understanding Erb’s Palsy Erb’s Palsy is caused by injury to the brachial plexus, a bundle of nerves near the neck and shoulder. It usually affects one arm, resulting in: Weakness or paralysis of the arm Poor grip on one side Limited shoulder or elbow movement Steps to Care for Your Child Step 1: Observe Carefully Pay close attention to them during sleep, play, and feeding times. Watch for: One arm hanging limply or held still Avoidance of using one arm Limited finger movement Use a journal to note daily ...

Introduction Every child deserves to be loved and played with–especially those energetic toddlers who love being swung around. They cling to your hands, begging you to spin them, their faces lit up with laughter and smiles that warm your heart and make you want to keep going. But what if I told you that this playful act could quickly shift from laughter to an unexpected twist? Take a comfortable seat and read on to learn more. Explaining the Possible Injury There’s an often overlooked risk when playing with children between the ages of 1 day and 3 years. Can you picture that moment when you. grab their wrists or hands and spin them around? While it may seem fun, beneath the giggles lies a hidden danger that could lead to serious injury–for the child, and sometimes even for you. During this motion, their arms and armpits are being stretched unnaturally. Beneath those tiny armpits lie delicate structures, including the brachial plexus–a network of nerves that control movement and sensati...

Introduction Hypertension—often called the silent killer—must be controlled to prevent complications like stroke. However, if you or someone you know has survived a stroke, today's post offers simple, home-based exercises that may aid in recovery. Please note: stroke rehabilitation is person-specific, and these exercises might not be suitable for everyone. Materials Needed A comfortable chair A comfortable bed A soft foam or small ball Exercises by Body Part Face Facial muscles are often affected after a stroke, especially on one side. Exercises must be done with gentleness and care. Assisted Smile: Use your hand to lift the corner of the mouth on the affected side into a smile. Hold for 10–15 seconds. Repeat 5 times. Puffed Cheeks: Fill your mouth with air and try to hold it for 10–15 seconds. Repeat 5–10 times. Facial Massage: Lightly apply white powder to the affected side and gently massage to activate the facial muscles. Proceed with caution to avoid damage to deli...

Introduction Last week, we introduced the world of stroke and how it can suddenly affect the human body. Did you take the time to check your blood pressure and document the readings? If you're unsure how to do that, refer back to our previous post for guidance. Today, we're taking things a step further by exploring the physical signs that often follow a stroke. How Can You Physically Tell Someone Has Survived a Stroke? Individuals who survive a stroke are referred to as stroke survivors. While survival is a major victory, many of these individuals experience visible physical changes. Remember from last week: a stroke occurs when a blood vessel in the brain is either blocked (ischemic) or ruptured (hemorrhagic), disrupting the blood flow. One major result of this disruption is paralysis—a weakness or loss of movement—usually on the opposite side of the body from where the brain was affected. For instance, if the stroke occurred in the left hemisphere of the brain, th...

Introduction In the previous post , we explored how the silent killer—stroke—can suddenly strike, often with devastating consequences. One of its major risk factors is high blood pressure (hypertension). Gone are the days when we had to wait for hospital visits to check our blood pressure. With the right tools and some guidance, you can monitor it effectively from the comfort of your home. Let’s walk through exactly how to do that. Materials Needed A digital blood pressure monitor (upper arm cuff preferred) A pen and notebook or notepad app A comfortable chair and a table What to Note Before Measurement Sit upright in a chair with your back supported and feet flat on the floor. Rest quietly for 10–15 minutes before the measurement. This helps avoid inaccurate readings caused by recent activity. Avoid caffeine or smoking for at least 30 minutes before checking. These can temporarily elevate your blood pressure. Positioning is key: Place the cuff on your bare upper arm, about...

Introduction In a world where many live in survival mode, it’s especially tragic when the silent killer strikes—unannounced, unexpected, and life-altering. While not everyone dies from its blow, it often leaves behind a permanent reminder: daily medications, impaired movement, and an altered quality of life. Let’s talk about this silent but powerful enemy that affects 12.2 million people globally and takes the lives of 6.6 million every year—stroke. Understanding Stroke Medically, stroke is defined as the interruption or reduction of blood flow to the brain. But here’s a simpler way to look at it: Imagine a water pipe in your home that’s been around for over 20 years. Some days, water rushes through it with more force than usual, causing it to stretch. Over time and use, on one of such occasions, water can flow through it with force and it'll eventually burst. That’s similar to a haemorrhagic stroke—when a blood vessel in the brain ruptures due to intense pressure. On the flip side...

Introduction If you've ever had a cold, catarrh, or asthma, you know how hard it can be to breathe when your chest feels full of mucus. But did you know that the way you lie down or sit can make a big difference in how easily mucus comes out or whether you start coughing? Your body position plays a big role in helping your lungs drain mucus—and that’s really important for people with asthma or blocked airways. In this post, we’ll show you simple positions you can try at home to help your chest feel clearer. Materials Needed A few pillows or a wedge A stopwatch or phone timer Tissue or a towel Positions to Help Clear Mucus (Postural Drainage) Note: Even though you can try this at home, it’s best to check with your physiotherapist or contact The Physio Diary if you’re unsure. Assume these positions for 10-15 minutes. Upper Lungs (Top of the Chest) When to try this: When your chest feels tight high up (near the collarbone), especially after lying down a long time or if you...

Introduction It is a common belief—especially among non-physiotherapists—that physiotherapists only deal with bones and joints. While efforts are ongoing to change this notion, today's post on The Physio Diary introduces you to another vital service a physiotherapist can provide: helping individuals with asthma. Yes, you read that right — ASTHMA . Understanding Asthma You’ve probably heard of asthma but may not fully understand what happens in the body. Let’s break it down. In a person without asthma , the airways (tubes that carry air in and out of the lungs) are wide open, allowing air to flow freely. These airways normally produce a thin layer of mucus that helps trap dust, germs, and other particles. Tiny hairs called cilia then move the mucus upward and out of the lungs. Now, let’s contrast that with someone who has asthma. During an asthma attack , the person may experience tightness in the chest, wheezing, coughing, or shortness of breath . These symptoms are cau...

Introduction Did you know that the way you stand can affect your energy, mood, and long-term health? Good posture isn’t just about looking confident—it’s about keeping your muscles, joints, and spine in harmony. How to Stand Properly: Step-by-Step Feet First Stand with feet hip-width apart Distribute your weight evenly across both feet Avoid leaning on one leg or tilting your hips Soften the Knees Keep your knees relaxed, not locked A slight bend reduces joint stress Straight Spine (Not Stiff) Stand tall but stay relaxed Lift your chin gently Avoid slouching or over-arching your lower back Align Your Head Keep your ears aligned with your shoulders Avoid jutting your chin forward (no “turtle neck”) Look straight ahead—not down at your phone! A Note from Us: Yes, these may sound like a lot of “steps.” But really, it’s just body awareness. Small corrections, over time, lead to lasting habits. Your joints will thank you later. Just observe, correct, repeat. Why Does Standing Pr...