How to Keep Your Spine Healthy

Discover how FYZICAL Therapy & Balance Centers can help Minnesota seniors improve balance, mobility and confidence with six Twin Cities locations.For many Minnesota seniors, independence is measured in everyday moments: walking confidently to the mailbox, shopping for groceries, getting together with friends, climbing the stairs, gardening, or simply moving around the house without worrying about falling.When balance begins to change, those ordinary activities can suddenly feel more difficult. A person may start reaching for furniture when walking across a room, avoiding stairs, turning down activities, or feeling nervous when navigating snow and ice.But balance problems should not automatically be accepted as a normal part of getting older. In many cases, physical therapy and specialized balance training can help older adults improve strength, stability, mobility and confidence.FYZICAL Therapy & Balance Centers focuses on physical therapy as well as balance, gait, fall-prevention and vestibular rehabilitation. FYZICAL's balance programs evaluate factors that can contribute to instability and develop individualized treatment plans designed to help people move more safely and confidently. FyzicalFor Twin Cities-area families, FYZICAL has convenient locations in White Bear Lake, Edina, Woodbury, Inver Grove Heights, Apple Valley and Lakeville.Why Does Balance Sometimes Change With Age?Good balance is more complicated than simply having strong legs.The body relies on information from several systems working together, including vision, the inner ear, muscles, joints, nerves and the brain. FYZICAL explains that gait and balance are closely connected and that problems involving strength, posture, reflexes or sensory systems can affect the way someone walks and feels while moving. FyzicalThat's one reason balance problems can look different from person to person.One person may experience dizziness when standing up or turning quickly. Another may notice that walking on uneven ground has become difficult. Someone else may feel fine inside the house but become uncomfortable walking through a parking lot or across Minnesota's snowy or icy sidewalks.These changes deserve attentionespecially when they begin interfering with normal activities.Watch for the Early Signs of Balance ProblemsA fall isn't necessarily the first indication that something has changed.Earlier warning signs can include feeling unsteady when walking, frequently grabbing walls or furniture for support, difficulty getting up from a chair, trouble navigating stairs, dizziness or vertigo, taking shorter or slower steps, or becoming increasingly afraid of falling.Sometimes the biggest change is behavioral.A person who once enjoyed shopping, attending church, visiting friends or going for walks may gradually stop participating because they don't feel confident on their feet.That loss of confidence can affect much more than mobility. It can begin to affect independence and quality of life.How Balance Therapy Can HelpBalance therapy begins by determining why someone is having difficulty.A physical therapist may evaluate walking patterns, strength, posture, flexibility, coordination and balance. When dizziness or vertigo is involved, the vestibular system may also need to be evaluated.FYZICAL's balance and gait programs can include assessment and evaluation, gait training, balance retraining, fall-prevention strategies, functional training and vestibular rehabilitation. Treatment depends on the individual's condition and goals, and services can vary by location. FyzicalThe goal isn't simply to perform exercises in a clinic.The larger goal is helping people function better in everyday life.That might mean being able to walk across the yard, get out of a chair more easily, navigate a busy store, attend a grandchild's event, travel, or simply feel more secure moving around the house.Strength and Balance Work TogetherMuscle strength plays an important role in stability.Weakness in the legs, hips and core can make recovering from a stumble more difficult. Physical therapy can incorporate exercises designed to improve strength, flexibility, posture and coordination while also addressing walking patterns.Balance exercises may progress as a person's abilities improve.For someone who has become fearful of falling, being able to practice in a supervised environment can also help rebuild confidence.The FYZICAL locations in White Bear Lake, Edina and Woodbury, for example, emphasize balance and vestibular-focused physical therapy in addition to orthopedic rehabilitation. The Inver Grove Heights and Apple Valley locations similarly offer balance, gait and fall-risk services. Dizziness and Vertigo Can Affect Balance TooNot every balance problem originates with muscle weakness.The vestibular system, located in the inner ear, helps the brain understand where the head and body are positioned in space. When that system isn't functioning properly, a person may experience dizziness, vertigo, motion sensitivity or unsteadiness.Vestibular rehabilitation is a specialized form of therapy intended to address these types of problems. Depending on the underlying condition, therapy may include balance retraining and exercises that help improve coordination between vision, movement and the vestibular system. FyzicalFor an older adult who has been limiting activities because of dizziness or fear of falling, identifying the source of the problem can be an important first step.Staying Independent Means Staying EngagedOne of the most important benefits of better mobility isn't measured in repetitions or test scores.It's measured in life.It's having the confidence to meet a friend for lunch.It's walking into a grandchild's school concert.It's continuing to live in the home you love.It's feeling comfortable going to the grocery store or taking the dog for a walk.And in Minnesota, it can mean feeling better prepared for the additional challenges that winter weather brings.Maintaining independence isn't about doing everything exactly as you did decades ago. It's about preserving the ability and confidence to continue doing the things that matter to you.Don't Wait for a Fall to Address Your BalanceSomeone doesn't have to experience a serious fall before talking with a healthcare professional about balance.If you or a family member has noticed increasing unsteadiness, dizziness, changes in walking, difficulty with stairs, or fear of falling, consider discussing those changes with a physician or physical therapist.Early attention may help identify areas that can be strengthened or improved.FYZICAL's approach emphasizes assessment and individualized treatment rather than assuming every balance problem has the same cause. FyzicalFind a FYZICAL Location Near YouMinnesota seniors and their families can connect with FYZICAL Therapy & Balance Centers in:White Bear Lake 2680 County Rd E East - (651) 504-2212Edina 5227 W 73rd Street -  952-207-2997Woodbury 670 Commerce Drive #130 -  (651) 501-2010Inver Grove Heights 7751 Amana Trail #300 -  651-842-8100Apple Valley 15083 Flagstaff Avenue #A - 612-246-6900   Lakeville 17761 Kenwood Trail - 952-236-0415Contact the location most convenient for you to learn about available physical therapy, balance, gait, vestibular and fall-prevention services. Because FYZICAL locations are independently operated, specific services may vary by clinic. FyzicalBetter balance can mean more than steadier steps. It can mean greater confidence, greater freedom and more opportunities to remain active and independent.

Understanding Hand, Wrist, & Elbow Conditions: When to Seek Orthopaedic CareOur hands, wrists, and elbows play a vital role in nearly every daily activity, from preparing meals and carrying groceries to gardening, typing, and enjoying favorite hobbies. Because we rely on these joints and muscles so often, pain or injury can quickly interfere with everyday life and limit independence.Many hand, wrist, and elbow conditions develop gradually through repetitive use, while others occur suddenly due to an injury or accident. Understanding the most common causes of pain can help you recognize symptoms early and seek the right treatment before the condition worsens.Why Hand, Wrist, and Elbow Pain Shouldnt Be IgnoredPersistent discomfort in the upper extremities is more than just an inconvenience. Left untreated, certain conditions can lead to decreased strength, reduced mobility, chronic pain, and difficulty performing everyday tasks.An evaluation by an orthopaedic specialist can identify the underlying cause and determine whether conservative treatment or a more advanced approach is appropriate.Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: A Common Cause of Hand NumbnessCarpal tunnel syndrome occurs when the median nerve, one of the major nerves supplying the hand, becomes compressed as it travels through a narrow passage in the wrist called the carpal tunnel.Common symptoms include:       Tingling or numbness in the fingers       Burning sensations       Hand weakness       Difficulty gripping objects       Symptoms that often worsen at nightRepetitive hand movements, certain medical conditions, and wrist anatomy can all contribute to the development of carpal tunnel syndrome.When diagnosed early, treatment may include wrist splints, anti-inflammatory medications, activity modifications, or other non-surgical therapies. More advanced cases may require surgery to relieve pressure on the nerve and restore function.Tennis Elbow Can Affect More Than AthletesDespite its name, tennis elbow frequently affects individuals who have never played tennis.Also known as lateral epicondylitis, this condition develops when repetitive gripping, lifting, or twisting motions place excessive stress on the tendons that attach to the outside of the elbow.Symptoms often include:       Pain on the outer part of the elbow       Weak grip strength       Pain when lifting objects       Discomfort during repetitive arm movementsMany patients improve with conservative treatment such as rest, physical therapy, activity modification, and anti-inflammatory medications. When symptoms persist despite non-surgical treatment, additional interventions or surgery may be considered.Ganglion Cysts: Understanding Wrist LumpsGanglion cysts are noncancerous, fluid-filled sacs that most commonly develop around the wrist, although they may also appear in the hands, ankles, or feet.While the exact cause remains unknown, they occur most frequently in adults between the ages of 15 and 40 and are also seen more often in individuals who place repetitive stress on their wrists.Depending on the size and symptoms, treatment options may include:       Observation if the cyst is painless       Temporary immobilization       Aspiration to drain the fluid       Surgical removal if the cyst repeatedly returns or causes ongoing discomfortMany ganglion cysts are harmless, but evaluation by a specialist helps determine the best course of treatment.Arthritis of the Hand and WristArthritis develops when the cartilage that cushions joints gradually wears away, leading to inflammation and pain.In the hands and wrists, arthritis may cause:       Joint stiffness       Swelling       Pain during movement       Decreased range of motion       Tenderness       Warmth around affected jointsTreatment focuses on reducing pain, maintaining joint function, and slowing progression whenever possible.Depending on the severity of arthritis, treatment may include:       Anti-inflammatory medications       Activity modification       Splinting       Physical or occupational therapy       Joint injections       Surgical treatment when conservative measures no longer provide reliefEarly management often helps patients maintain better long-term hand function.Overuse Injuries and Repetitive Motion DisordersOne of the most frequent reasons people develop hand, wrist, or elbow pain is repetitive use.Activities such as typing, gardening, construction work, weightlifting, racquet sports, golf, and repetitive lifting can gradually strain muscles, tendons, and ligaments. Falls or direct trauma may also result in fractures, sprains, or dislocations.Symptoms may include:       Persistent pain       Swelling       Tenderness       Stiffness       Reduced mobility       Weakness during everyday activitiesMany overuse injuries respond well to conservative treatment using rest, ice, anti-inflammatory medication, bracing, and physical therapy. If symptoms continue or structural damage is identified, surgical treatment may become the best option.Personalized Treatment for Every PatientEvery hand, wrist, and elbow condition is different, which is why individualized care is so important.Orthopaedic specialists begin with a thorough evaluation that may include a physical examination, diagnostic imaging, and a discussion of your lifestyle and activity level. From there, they develop a personalized treatment plan designed to relieve pain, restore movement, and help you safely return to your normal routine.Whenever possible, treatment begins with non-surgical options. However, when surgery is necessary, fellowship-trained specialists utilize advanced techniques focused on restoring function and improving long-term outcomes.Fellowship-Trained Specialists You Can TrustFor more than 40 years, patients across the Alabama Gulf Coast have trusted The Orthopaedic Group, P.C. for comprehensive orthopaedic care.Their fellowship-trained physicians specialize in diagnosing and treating conditions affecting the hand, wrist, elbow, spine, shoulder, hip, knee, foot, and ankle. The Hand & Elbow Center includes surgeons with advanced fellowship training in hand surgery, microvascular surgery, and upper extremity surgery, allowing patients to receive highly specialized care tailored to their individual needs.Whether youre experiencing numbness, stiffness, chronic pain, or an injury affecting your hand, wrist, or elbow, seeking evaluation early can often lead to more treatment options and better outcomes.Dont Let Hand or Elbow Pain Limit Your LifestylePain in the hand, wrist, or elbow doesnt have to become part of everyday life. Early diagnosis and expert treatment can help restore mobility, reduce discomfort, and allow you to return to the activities you enjoy most.If persistent pain, weakness, or limited motion is interfering with your daily routine, consulting a fellowship-trained orthopaedic specialist is an important first step toward recovery.Contact The Orthopaedic Group for more information.

BOULDER, Colo. (June 2026)  Frasier, a nonprofit senior living community, has awarded $101,900 in grants to five local organizations that provide essential services for older adults in Boulder County. The funding, distributed through the Frasier Community Resource Fund, will support projects addressing food insecurity, housing instability and healthcare access for underserved seniors. Since the endowments inception in 2021, Frasier has awarded nearly $500,000 to 27 community agencies. The grantmaking process is led by Seniors for Seniors, a 10-member resident-led advisory team at Frasier that establishes funding criteria, reviews applications and visits agencies to learn about their impact. This year we received many more proposals than in the past. The change reflects the growing demand on nonprofit organizations and government agencies that provide support for underserved people of all kinds, including seniors, stated Frasier resident Marjorie McIntosh, chair of Seniors for Seniors. The 2026 grant recipients include:Boulder Housing Partners: The $17,450 grant will be used to upgrade and replace equipment in Golden Wests kitchen and also purchase and install emergency generators and battery storage systems at 6 affordable senior housing complexes.Circle of Care: The $25,000 grant will assist a program that brings disadvantaged seniors to concerts, using tickets donated by event organizers. For seniors with disabilities, the organization has an ADA Accessible van to transport them to concerts; this grant will pay for an ADA trained driver, insurance, fuel, and maintenance.Community Food Share: The $17,450 grant will support food purchasing for a program that delivers food to homebound seniors, helping to bridge the gaps in CFSs existing funding month-to-month. It will provide reliable access to quality protein along with seasonally fresh and organic vegetables from local farmsPresbyterian Manor: The $17,000 grant will help combat food insecurity of Presbyterian Manor residents by subsidizing the cost of three hot meals per week. The funds will partially replace lost funding from Boulder County and allow the continuation of their partnership with Community Table Kitchen, a program of Bridge House. TRU Community Care: The $25,000 grant will allow TRU to purchase 25 new GrandPad units for seniors with the greatest need. These easy-to-use devices bring personalized medical care to homebound seniors on Medicaid and lessen their social isolation. Joan Raderman, Founder and Program Director for Circle of Care added Our Culture Bus is now able to happenSeniors for Senior is providing the oxygen, and when you match the oxygen with passionate people who want to make a change, magic happens! The Seniors for Seniors program oversees the $2.1 million endowment, created to strengthen support for Boulder Countys aging population. McIntosh closed with, Frasier is part of the Boulder County community, and our values include a commitment to those around us. The Community Resource Program is one way we put that commitment into practice. The Seniors for Seniors team is grateful to be able to assist some of the nonprofits that are working so valiantly to help seniors in need. ###About FrasierAs a Life Plan community, Frasier is an independent, nonprofit, purpose-driven, senior living community dedicated to helping seniors enjoy vibrant and fulfilling lives since 1960. Located in Boulder, CO, the 20-acre campus features independent living, assisted living, memory support, long-term care, skilled nursing, rehabilitation services, a wellness center, and care for nearly 500 residents.    About Seniors for SeniorsSeniors for Seniors is a resident-led advisory team at Frasier responsible for stewarding the Frasier Community Resource Endowment, originally established at $2.1 million. Since 2021, the team has awarded 27, one-year grants, ranging from $5,000 to $42,0000 to eight nonprofit organizations and six city/county agencies that serve older adults in Boulder County. Through an annual application and review process, Seniors for Seniors carefully evaluate submissions and distributes funding to support impactful, community-based senior services.