Edward Han
Sticks and stones might break bones, but what causes general aches
and pains?
It is a question that too many people don't know the answer to,
according to Laura Stewart, who is the founder, president and chief
therapist of Wellspring Therapy. As a result, Wellspring is hosting a
series of free seminars starting July 13 that are designed to educate
the community on the most common hand, back, joint and other
problems.
"Patients who come in here have had pains for years, and only go
to a doctor when they absolutely can't do anything else," said
Stewart, a certified hand therapist who has been an occupational
therapist for nearly 20 years. "We're putting on the seminars to give
back to the community and teach them how to prevent the most common
hand and back issues."
The first seminar, "Is this Carpal Tunnel, Tendinitis, or
Arthritis?" aims to teach people about the symptoms of common hand
problems, what they can do at home to alleviate those problems, the
basic principles of ergonomics and joint protection techniques, and
step-by-step prevention strategies.
"The people here are great and really helpful," said Charles
Ribera, 26, who has been going to Wellspring since February to treat
a broken finger. "If I were to ever get injured again, I'd come back
here."
This is the first time Wellspring has put on seminars of this
sort, which Stewart hopes will keep patients from waiting until it is
too late to seek help.
"The satisfaction of patients getting better and back on their
feet, along with the challenge of learning new technology and therapy
techniques makes coming to work fun," she said.
The seminars are on the second Tuesday of every month at 7 p.m. at
500 W. Glenoaks Blvd. To make a reservation, call 637-2127.
