This Week in PT News, January 30th

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Physical Therapy is Key to Improved ICU Outcomes

While many researchers already know that rest is not always the best medicine, a new Johns Hopkins study reveals that initiating physical therapy early in the treatment process for Intensive Care Unit (ICU) patients benefits both patients and healthcare facilities. How? Well, a structured approach to quality improvement processes leads to sustainable improvement in patient outcomes and reduced hospital costs. Read more about this study here.

Changes in Body Weight Linked to Increased Risk of Fracture in Women

According to a new study led by Dr. Carolyn J. Crandal, both weight loss and weight gain may increase a postmenopausal woman’s chance of suffering a fracture. The results of the study contradict prior research suggesting that weight gain in this particular population actually reduces the incidence of fractures. In fact, “Weight gain was associated with a 10% increase in the risk of upper-limb fractures and an 18% increase in lower-limb fractures, compared with stable weight,” Crandal said. Those at a heightened risk of fracture should participate in an exercise program or #GetPT.

Source: Emily Roberts, WebPT.com