West Texas Rehab

The Power of Early Intervention: Why Speech Therapy Can’t Wait

Posted on by Suzanne Click

The Power of Early Intervention: Why Speech Therapy Can’t Wait
 Celebrating Better Speech and Hearing Month – May

Every child deserves the chance to express themselves clearly, confidently, and fully. Yet, for many, speech and language challenges can create barriers in communication that affect learning, relationships, and emotional well-being. That’s where early speech therapy intervention becomes a powerful tool—and during May, Better Speech and Hearing Month, it’s the perfect time to raise awareness about its critical role.

Why Early Intervention Matters

Speech and language skills begin developing from the moment a child is born. By the time they reach preschool, these skills form the foundation for literacy, learning, and social interaction. Delays or difficulties in communication—whether with articulation, language comprehension, fluency, or voice—can have lasting impacts if not addressed early.

Here’s why early intervention is so essential:

1. The Brain Is More Adaptable at a Young Age

Neuroplasticity—the brain’s ability to change and adapt—is at its peak during early childhood. This means young children are better able to learn new speech and language patterns, making therapy more effective when started early.

2. Reduces the Risk of Academic Struggles

Children with untreated speech and language disorders often face challenges with reading, writing, and classroom participation. Early support can bridge those gaps and prepare them for school success.

3. Boosts Social and Emotional Development

Clear communication helps children build friendships and navigate their world with confidence. Without it, they may feel frustrated, isolated, or misunderstood. Early therapy empowers them to connect with others in meaningful ways.

4. Increases Long-Term Independence

The earlier a child begins therapy, the more likely they are to reach communication milestones that support greater independence in school, work, and daily life.

May Is Better Speech and Hearing Month

Every May, we celebrate Better Speech and Hearing Month, a national campaign led by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) to promote understanding about communication disorders and the importance of early treatment. It’s a time to educate families, caregivers, educators, and healthcare professionals about how speech-language pathologists (SLPs) and audiologists can make a profound difference.

This year’s theme encourages us all to be proactive—whether that means getting a hearing screening, scheduling a developmental evaluation for your child, or simply starting a conversation about speech therapy with someone who may benefit from it.

What You Can Do

  • Watch for signs. Trust your instincts. If your child isn’t meeting speech milestones or struggles to be understood, talk to a pediatrician or SLP.
  • Act early. Don’t wait for your child to “grow out of it.” Early help leads to better outcomes.
  • Share awareness. Use this month to spread the word about the importance of speech and hearing health.

Speech therapy is more than correcting sounds—it’s about opening the doors to expression, confidence, and connection. By prioritizing early intervention and recognizing May as Better Speech and Hearing Month, we can give every child the voice they deserve.

If you have questions or concerns about  your child’s speech or language development, reach out to our Pediatric Therapy Departments in San Angelo (325-223-6300) or Abilene (325-793-3400).   

Understanding the Role of a Pediatric Occupational Therapist: Celebrating Occupational Therapy Month in April

Posted on by Suzanne Click

Understanding the Role of a Pediatric Occupational Therapist: Celebrating Occupational Therapy Month in April

April is a special time to celebrate the impact of Occupational Therapy (OT), and it’s the perfect moment to shine a light on one of its vital branches: pediatric occupational therapy. With April being Occupational Therapy Month, it’s important to recognize the invaluable work that pediatric occupational therapists (OTs) do to help children develop the skills they need to thrive in daily life.

What is Pediatric Occupational Therapy?

Pediatric occupational therapy focuses on helping children of all ages develop the fine motor, cognitive, social, and sensory skills necessary for everyday activities. While many people associate occupational therapy with adults recovering from injuries or surgeries, pediatric OTs specialize in supporting children who may be facing challenges in their development, whether due to medical conditions, disabilities, or developmental delays.

The goal of pediatric occupational therapy is to promote independence, safety, and confidence, both at home and in school. A pediatric OT works with children, families, and teachers to develop personalized treatment plans that help kids learn essential skills for self-care, play, schoolwork, and social interaction.

What Does a Pediatric Occupational Therapist Do?

A pediatric OT’s role can be quite diverse, depending on the needs of each child. Here are some key areas they focus on:

1. Fine Motor Skills Development

Pediatric OTs help children develop the small muscle movements necessary for tasks like writing, tying shoes, and using utensils. They work with kids on hand-eye coordination, hand strength, and finger dexterity to ensure they can complete these important tasks independently.

2. Sensory Integration

Many children experience sensory processing challenges, meaning they may have difficulty processing certain sensory stimuli like sounds, textures, or lights. Pediatric OTs use specific strategies and activities to help kids regulate their sensory responses, helping them feel more comfortable in their environments.

3. Self-Care and Daily Activities

Pediatric OTs teach children how to take care of themselves, including dressing, feeding, grooming, and toileting. The goal is to help children develop the independence to perform these tasks on their own and feel confident in doing so.

4. Cognitive and Social Skills

OTs work on cognitive skills like problem-solving, planning, and attention. They also focus on helping children with social skills, including taking turns, communicating effectively, and managing emotions. This area of therapy can be particularly important for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) or attention-related challenges.

5. School Readiness

Many children benefit from occupational therapy to help with school-related tasks, including sitting still, maintaining focus, writing, and using tools like scissors. OTs work closely with teachers and parents to ensure that a child’s learning environment is supportive and that they can participate fully in school activities.

Pediatric occupational therapists play an essential role in helping children build the skills they need to live full, independent lives. From improving fine motor skills to helping children navigate sensory challenges, their work ensures that children can engage in the activities that are important for their growth and development. During Occupational Therapy Month, take a moment to appreciate the incredible work these professionals do and the positive impact they have on the lives of children and families. Whether it’s through therapy sessions, community outreach, or awareness campaigns, pediatric occupational therapists are dedicated to helping kids thrive—today and in the future.

Empowering Communication for Deaf and Hard of Hearing Kids

Posted on by Brilyn Daniels

At West Texas Rehab Center, we understand that communication is a vital part of every child’s development. For children who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing (D/HH), Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs) play a crucial role in fostering language, speech, and social skills. Our team of experienced SLPs is dedicated to providing specialized therapy tailored to meet the unique needs of each child, ensuring they reach their full communication potential.

Comprehensive Speech-Language Therapy for D/HH Children

Our SLPs are trained to support children with varying hearing abilities, whether they use hearing aids, cochlear implants, or communicate primarily through sign language. We are proud to have an SLP on staff who can provide therapy using sign language, offering a more inclusive approach for children who rely on signed communication.

Speech Development

  • Assist children in producing clear and understandable speech sounds, regardless of their hearing ability.
  • Use visual aids to support proper mouth, lip, and tongue positioning for improved speech production.

Language Development

  • Enhance vocabulary, grammar, and sentence structure using spoken language, sign language, or augmentative communication.
  • Support comprehension of abstract language concepts such as idioms, reasoning, and conversation skills.

Auditory Training

  • Help children improve their ability to recognize and interpret sounds in their environment and in speech.
  • Strengthen listening skills, even in noisy settings, to better process spoken language.

Social Communication Skills

  • Teach children effective communication techniques, including turn-taking, conversation skills, and nonverbal cues like body language.
  • Guide children in navigating social interactions in school, peer groups, and other social settings.

Language Processing

  • Support children in understanding and responding to both verbal and nonverbal communication cues.
  • Enhance auditory comprehension and expressive language skills affected by hearing loss.

Cognitive-Communication Skills

  • Improve memory, attention, and problem-solving abilities that are essential for communication and learning.
  • Provide strategies to help children organize their thoughts and express themselves clearly.

Cochlear Implant and Hearing Aid Support

  • Offer guidance on maximizing the benefits of hearing technology for speech and language development.
  • Adjust therapy plans as hearing technology evolves to ensure continuous progress.

Reading and Writing Skills

  • Foster literacy development, including phonological awareness, reading comprehension, and writing proficiency.
  • Support academic success by integrating literacy into speech and language therapy.

Family Support and Education

We believe that family involvement is key to a child’s communication success. Our SLPs provide:

  • Parent and caregiver education on strategies to enhance communication at home, such as using visual cues and creating a language-rich environment.
  • Guidance on advocating for a child’s communication needs in school and community settings.
  • Resources tailored to each family’s preferred communication method and lifestyle.

Why Choose West Texas Rehab Center?

When selecting a Speech-Language Pathologist for your child, it is important to consider their experience, communication mode, and dedication. At WTRC, we pride ourselves on:

  • Experience: Our SLPs have over 30 years of combined experience working with children who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing.
  • Versatility: We offer therapy in various communication modalities, including spoken language, sign language, and total communication.
  • Compassion: Our therapists are patient, understanding, and passionate about fostering communication development in every child.

At West Texas Rehab Center, we are committed to supporting the Deaf and Hard of Hearing community with expert therapy services. Our dedicated SLPs are here to help your child grow, communicate, and thrive. If you are looking for a speech therapist for your child, we are ready to provide the specialized care they deserve.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact West Texas Rehab Center today. Let’s work together to empower your child’s communication journey!

To find out more information contact our Speech Therapy department in San Angelo or Abilene visit, https://westtexasrehab.org/services/pediatric/#speech-language-pathology

The Importance of Balance After a Concussion: Awareness and Recovery During Brain Injury Awareness Month

Posted on by Suzanne Click

March marks Brain Injury Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about brain injuries, their impacts, and the crucial role recovery plays in improving the lives of those affected. Concussions, one of the most common types of brain injury, often have long-lasting effects, especially when it comes to balance and coordination.

In this blog, we’ll discuss the common balance concerns after a concussion and why understanding and addressing them is so important. Whether you’re recovering from a concussion yourself or supporting someone through the process, knowing what to expect and how to manage balance issues can help make recovery more manageable.

What is a Concussion and How Does it Affect Balance?

A concussion is a type of mild traumatic brain injury (TBI) typically caused by a blow to the head or body that shakes the brain inside the skull. Though often considered a “mild” injury, concussions can lead to significant disruptions in brain function and have a variety of physical, cognitive, and emotional effects.

One of the most challenging and common symptoms following a concussion is difficulty with balance. The brain’s ability to maintain physical stability involves a complex system that includes the inner ear (vestibular system), the visual system, and sensory inputs from muscles and joints. A concussion can disrupt this system, causing issues such as:

  • Dizziness and Vertigo: These feelings can occur when the brain struggles to process signals from the inner ear and other balance-related systems.
  • Impaired Coordination: Tasks requiring fine motor skills or maintaining physical equilibrium, such as walking or standing, may become more difficult.
  • Sensitivity to Movement: Even slight head movements or changes in position can cause symptoms to worsen, leaving individuals feeling off-balance or disoriented.

Why Balance Concerns Matter

Balance issues after a concussion are not just an inconvenience – they can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life. Simple activities like walking, driving, or exercising become more dangerous when balance is compromised. These difficulties can also contribute to anxiety or a sense of vulnerability, leading to a cycle where individuals avoid physical activity, which, in turn, can delay recovery.

Furthermore, improper or inadequate treatment of balance concerns can lead to persistent symptoms, a condition known as post-concussion syndrome. It’s essential to recognize these symptoms early and seek appropriate care to avoid long-term difficulties.

How to Manage Balance Issues After a Concussion

While the effects of a concussion can be challenging, there are several strategies for managing balance issues during recovery:

  1. Rest and Recovery: The brain needs time to heal, so it’s vital to avoid activities that strain the brain and exacerbate symptoms, such as sports or strenuous physical activity. Rest is key to allowing the brain to recover and regain its normal function.
  2. Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy (VRT): This specialized form of physical therapy helps individuals regain balance and coordination after a concussion. VRT includes exercises designed to retrain the brain and improve its ability to process signals from the balance systems. A trained therapist will tailor a program to meet individual needs, gradually increasing the intensity as symptoms improve.
  3. Gradual Return to Activity: Once balance issues begin to improve, a step-by-step approach to reintroducing physical activity is critical. Engaging in low-impact activities like walking or light stretching, and slowly progressing to more intense exercises, can help rebuild physical strength and confidence.
  4. Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Balance disturbances can lead to feelings of anxiety, which may make symptoms worse. Practicing mindfulness, meditation, and relaxation exercises can help manage stress and reduce the emotional impact of recovery.
  5. Seek Support from Healthcare Professionals: If balance problems persist or worsen, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider. A concussion specialist, neurologist, or physical therapist can offer more personalized treatment options to address ongoing balance concerns.

Brain Injury Awareness Month: A Time for Advocacy

As we observe Brain Injury Awareness Month this March, it’s a perfect time to educate ourselves and others about the impact of concussions and other brain injuries on balance and overall health. Raising awareness about the importance of proper care and rehabilitation helps reduce stigma, encourages individuals to seek help when necessary, and ensures that recovery efforts are taken seriously.

For anyone recovering from a concussion, remember that balance issues are common and treatable. With the right guidance and support, it’s possible to regain balance, confidence, and a return to daily life.

Conclusion

Balance issues after a concussion are often one of the most challenging and misunderstood aspects of recovery. Whether you or someone you know is struggling with post-concussion balance problems, it’s important to recognize these symptoms and seek the necessary treatment and support. Brain Injury Awareness Month serves as a reminder that concussion recovery requires patience, care, and proper guidance from healthcare professionals. Through education and awareness, we can ensure that individuals living with brain injuries get the care they need to live fulfilling lives.

Remember, balance is key—both physically and mentally—in the recovery journey.

FMI about Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy contact our Adult Therapy Department at 325-223-6304 in San Angelo or 325-793-3400 in Abilene. 

Four Benefits of Dry Needling

Posted on by arollwitz

Dry Needling is a therapeutic treatment in which a trained, certified therapist inserts a small, sterile, microfilament needle directly into a myofascial trigger point in the muscle.  This helps release muscle tension and pain, boosts blood flow, diminishes inflammation, and prompts a healing response.

Read on for the top four benefits of dry needling:

Get fast pain relief

Most people associate trigger points with knotted muscles in their shoulder, upper back, and neck.  But these “knots” can arise in any part of your body
and be associated with many conditions, from low back and sciatica to headaches and overuse injuries. Your pain improves as the knot relaxes and blood flow improves. Better circulation means that painful, acidic wastes get carried away while your muscles receive the oxygen and nutrients they need to heal.

Regain your range of motion

Few things stop you from moving like tight, painful muscles.  If you have multiple trigger points, you may experience severely limited mobility.  And when you’re not active, your muscles weaken and lose mass. Our physical and occupational therapists include dry needling in your comprehensive therapy program to restore your range of motion and rebuild your strength.  Clinically, we see improved muscle length, flexibility, strength and a corresponding decrease in pain with our patients following dry needling treatments.  Therapy further helps retrain your muscles, and this helps to prevent future trigger points.

Accelerate your recovery

Whether you suffered an injury or had surgery, moving your body is the best way to promote healing and speed up your recovery. Physical or Occupational therapy will set you up with an individualized plan specific to your recovery and adding dry needling to this therapy plan can accelerate the healing process.

Improve chronic pain conditions

Dry needling is a non-medicated treatment that goes a long way toward easing chronic pain conditions such as myofascial pain syndrome, migraines, and fibromyalgia. Dry needling improves nerve communication and activates the release of your body’s natural pain relievers. Many chronic pain conditions can be successfully treated in conjunction with other therapies such as stretching, strengthening, and re-educating muscle movement patterns.

Many patients experience an immediate reduction in local and widespread pain after one dry needling session.  Others may need several sessions to achieve optimum pain relief.  Your treatment plan depends on the severity and number of trigger points.

For more information about dry needling services offered at West Texas Rehabilitation Center, please contact our Adult Therapy departments at San Angelo (325-223-6300) or Abilene (325-793-3400).

Key Benefits of Aquatic Therapy

Posted on by Suzanne Click

Aquatic therapy is a form of physical therapy that takes place in a pool or other water environment. It is often used in conjunction with land-based therapies for the treatment, management, and recovery of various conditions. Water’s buoyant, soothing properties offer less resistance, making it ideal for patients with pain and difficulty performing certain exercises.

What Is Aquatic Therapy?

Aquatic therapy is more than swimming laps in the pool. It is a safe and effective form of physical therapy utilizing evidence-based techniques to help patients move and feel better.

As with any physical therapy plan, aquatic therapy takes place under the supervision of a licensed physical therapist and follows a custom treatment plan based on the patient’s physical abilities and goals.

Aquatic physical therapy is recommended instead of or in conjunction with traditional physical therapy for patients whose symptoms and abilities necessitate a gentle, supportive exercise environment.

Aquatic therapy:

Lowers Fall Risk
Some patients who have issues with balance and stability may not be good candidates for land-based physical therapy.

Helps With Balance and Coordination
Aquatic therapy helps patients improve coordination and balance to reduce their risk of falls outside of the pool. Water slows down movement and stops falls, giving patients time to regain their posture if they get off balance.

Reduces Stress on Joints and Bones
Water reduces nearly 90% of body weight, when the patient is immersed to the neck. That buoyancy reduces the load on weight-bearing muscles, bones, and joints. This is ideal for anyone with a musculoskeletal condition or injury that would make landing on a hard surface unsafe or painful.

Builds Muscle Strength and Endurance
Because water is denser than air, it takes more effort to perform the same exercise in water than on land. This allows patients to increase muscle strength as they push against the water in a low-impact environment that will not stress vulnerable bones and tissues.

Increases Aerobic Capacity
Exercise increases aerobic capacity and breathing which is good for overall health. Aerobic exercise can reduce the risk of coronary artery disease and help to maintain a healthy blood pressure. This is good for patients who need aerobic activity but have pain and mobility issues that make land-based exercise challenging.

Improves Joint Flexibility
Water is conducive for greater range of motion in otherwise stiff joints. Warm water relaxes muscles which offloads tension from joints, allowing them to move more comfortably. Movement is medicine for individuals with arthritis and other joint conditions, making aquatic therapy a viable option for safe and gentle exercise.

Reduces Swelling
Hydrostatic pressure is pressure exerted by any type of fluid in a confined space. During aquatic physical therapy, water exerts hydrostatic pressure on the body. That pressure increases circulation and reduces swelling which in turn reduces joint stiffness and increases mobility.

Technology-Free Holiday Shopping Guide for Kids

Posted on by arollwitz

This guide is meant to help you and the little ones in your life unplug for the Holidays by filling those carts with battery-free gifts. This list is a starting point to get ideas flowing and doesn’t include all the wonderful possibilities out there. Technology-Free Holiday Shopping Guide for Kids

Important questions to ask yourself when standing in the toy aisle: 

1: Is it age appropriate? Read on for more:

Most kid toys will be helpfully labeled with an age range (or at least a minimum age). Keep in mind also the individual skills the child has.  If your recipient has developmental delays, you may need to shop in a younger category to better fit their needs and interests.  

2: Can it be played with in more than one way?

A toy’s versatility will foster imagination and problem solving. Not to mention provide hours of play possibilities.

3: Is it durable? 

Kids are hard on their toys. Will it survive the beatings?

Gift Ideas by Age

All ages: These items will work well for any age, just tailor them to meet the interests and developmental level of the intended recipient.

  • Books (fabric books for babies, board books for toddlers, fun, illustrated books for the early readers and chapter books for your older kids)
  • Balls (soft, easy to hold balls for babies/toddlers and sport specific ones for your older kids)
  • Clothes
  • “Experiences” like movie tickets, Zoo passes or park/library trips

0-6 months: Most stores keep baby registries open for months after the due date, so this can be a great place to check if parents are still needing supplies for their older infant, as well as nursery color schemes, and what items were already purchased.  New parents are always in need of consumable necessities too, like diapers and wipes.

  • Blankets
  • Floortime mirror
  • Teethers 
  • Rattles 
  • Essentials like diapers & wipes
  • High chair
  • Babysit for parents to have a date

6-12 months: This age group is on the move! There is a tremendous transformation as babies transition from infants to toddlers. They are gaining mobility through crawling, cruising and walking and are eager to explore their environments. They are also starting to eat purees and table foods and being weaned from the bottle. Older babies put everything in their mouths as they cut teeth, so make sure there are no choking hazards like loose buttons or small parts.

  • Shape sorters
  • Blocks
  • Stacking blocks
  • Balls
  • Ride-on or push toys 
  • Sippy cups
  • Tableware & utensils
  • Teethers

1 year: This age is refining their new mobility skills and developing early language and play skills.  They enjoy dumping items and putting things into containers, and are becoming more independent in self-feeding.

  • Pedal-free ride on toys (ones that are propelled by pushing against the ground)
  • Large crayons (finger crayons, wide diameter and triangle) 
  • Chunky cars
  • Ball poppers
  • Bubbles
  • Tableware sets
  • Stuffed animals
  • Pretend play sets (ie kitchen sets, toolbench, etc)
  • Bath toys

2-3 years: Preschoolers are refining their fine motor and eye-hand coordination skills. Movement is still really important for them and they’ll enjoy spending time outside. They are also starting to show more attention for tabletop activities like coloring and simple crafts.

  • Form Board puzzles (these have pieces that fit into a solid backing for the puzzle)
  • Indoor tent
  • Playground equipment (T-ball sets, swings, slides, etc)
  • Art supplies
  • Pretend play sets (ie kitchen sets, toolbench, etc)
  • Blocks
  • Megablocks (the giant legos)
  • Playdough and tools
  • Tricycle
  • Sidewalk chalk

4-5 years: Pre-K and Kinder years will have a spike in imagination and role playing. Kids this age enjoy pretend play as their favorite characters or community members like police officers and doctors. 

  • Puzzles
  • Dress-up costumes & accessories 
  • Dolls/action figures
  • Construction toys like legos and connector sets 
  • Markers, paint sets
  • Gross motor games
  • Scooters and bikes

6-8 years: Emerging readers, this age group is ready for turn-taking games and tabletop activities. 

  • Legos
  • Activity books
  • Science kits 
  • Craft kits
  • Board & card games (simple classics like Candy Land or Go Fish for your new readers, more advanced games for the older kids)

8-10 years: Older elementary school kids are more competent readers and are continuing to build their problem-solving and social skills.  Encourage their independence with items that will put their brains to work.  This is also the age when sleepovers to friends and family houses may begin, so think about the gear they might need for overnights. 

  • Board & card games 
  • Journals
  • Brain teaser games
  • Joke books
  • Suitcase/duffle bag 
  • Sleeping bag

November is National Hospice and Palliative Care Year

Posted on by arollwitz

November marks National Hospice and Palliative Care Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness and celebrating the compassionate care that hospice and palliative services provide for individuals and families facing serious illnesses. This month serves as a reminder of the profound impact these services have on enhancing quality of life, managing symptomkdjsnfakdfoffering holistic support to both patients and their loved ones.

Understanding Hospice and Palliative Care

The main focus is on quality of life, providing comfort, dignity, and support. Though often mentioned together, they address different needs:

  • Hospice Care is a specialized type of care for those with a terminal illness, typically when life expectancy is six months or less. It focuses on managing symptoms, reducing discomfort, and supporting emotional and spiritual needs.
  • Palliative Care, on the other hand, is broader in scope and can be provided at any stage of a serious illness. It is focused on relief from symptoms, pain, and stress, aiming to improve the quality of life regardless of the patient’s prognosis.

Why National Hospice and Palliative Care Month Matters

This month brings national attention to these vital services that are often misunderstood. Misconceptions surrounding hospice and palliative care can lead to hesitation or even avoidance when it comes to seeking support. By understanding the benefits and scope of these services, families and patients can make more informed choices about their care options. Hospice and palliative care provide a compassionate approach that allows patients to live fully, with dignity, even during challenging times.

The Benefits

Enhanced Quality of Life: Care teams work with patients to reduce pain and manage symptoms, creating a more comfortable experience.

  • Family and Caregiver Support: Care teams offer emotional and practical support to family members, helping them navigate difficult decisions and providing respite.
  • Personalized, Holistic Care: These services take a patient-centered approach, addressing not only physical symptoms but also emotional, social, and spiritual needs.
  • Empowerment and Choice: Patients and families are empowered to make decisions that align with their values and goals, bringing a sense of control in an uncertain time.

October is National Protect Your Hearing Month

Posted on by Suzanne Click

Did you know that sounds that are too loud for too long can damage your hearing permanently? The louder the noise, the faster it can damage your hearing. This October, during National Protect Your Hearing Month, the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD) encourages everyone to learn about noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) and steps you can take to prevent it.

Very loud noise, such as using firearms, can cause you to lose your hearing almost instantly. You can damage your hearing in less than 15 minutes at loud sporting events or concerts or when listening to music through headphones at high volume. If the noise is not as loud but lasts a long time, such as when using noisy yard or farm equipment, hearing damage can build more slowly.

NIHL can happen to anyone at any age. Up to 24 percent of American adults under age 70 may have hearing loss due to noise exposure in one or both ears. Other studies have suggested that 13 to 18 percent of U.S. teens have signs of possible hearing loss from noise.

When sounds are too loud for too long, tiny bundles of hair-like structures that sit on top of hair cells in the inner ear are damaged. When hair cells are damaged, they cannot respond to sound, causing NIHL. In humans, hair cells cannot be fixed or replaced, so the hearing loss is permanent. Because NIHL can build slowly over time, you might not notice the early signs of hearing loss.

The good news is that you can take steps to protect your hearing:

  • Lower the volume. Know which noises can cause damage: those at or above 85 decibels. If you use headphones or earbuds, keep the volume low.
  • Move away from the noise. If you cannot lower the volume, put some distance between you and the source.
  • Wear hearing protectors, such as earplugs or earmuffs, when you’re involved in a noisy activity, whether it’s mowing the lawn, using power tools, playing loud music, or attending a concert or loud sporting event. Activity-specific earplugs and earmuffs are available online and at hardware, sporting goods, and other stores.
  • Protect the ears of children who are too young to protect their own.
  • Tell family, friends, and colleagues about noise hazards.

In September, we celebrate National Rehabilitation Awareness Week

Posted on by arollwitz

During the month of September and especially National Rehabilitation Awareness Week, we celebrate the rehabilitation professionals who all work together to make a difference in the lives of others. Therapists truly are some of the most highly caring and sensitive individuals who genuinely enjoy helping people. So, we want to say, “A BIG Thank You!” for the compassion, patience, and understanding you exhibit with your patients.

Did You Know?

The first ever National Rehabilitation Awareness Week was started in 1976, with a small campaign by Allied Service in Scranton, Pennsylvania. Fast forward 40+ years, the campaign has grown into a national awareness initiative dedicated to the caring professionals who help patients achieve their goals every day!

In honor of National Rehabilitation Awareness Week, we dug up some fun facts about the fields of therapy:

Physical Therapy Fun Facts

  • According to Forbes, physical therapy ranks among the top 10 “happiest jobs” in America.
  • Many of today’s physical therapy techniques date back thousands of years. The first use of massage and hydrotherapy goes as far back as 460 BC.
  • Physical therapy as a profession actually started during World War I as there was a need to take care of injured soldiers, and the first PTs during WWI were called “reconstruction aides”.
  • Physical therapy began as a female-only profession. The initial physical therapy professional organization was called the American Women’s Physical Therapy Association and had 274 members.
  • In 1922, the American Women’s Physical Therapy Association changed their name to the American Physiotherapy Association. Then in the 1940’s, the organization changed its name once again to the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA), whose members today include over 100,000 therapists in the U.S. alone.
  • The demand for physical therapy increased in the late 1960s and 1970s. Schools could not graduate PTs fast enough during this time, so the career of physical therapy assistant was created.

Occupational Therapy Fun Facts

  • Occupational therapy techniques date back farther than PT. In 100 BC, a Greek physician named Asclepiades used OT techniques to treat mental illness.
  • In 1917, the occupational therapy profession was founded by three men and three women.
  • Like PTs, OTs treated injured soldiers in World War I and World War II.
  • Today, over 30% of occupational therapists work in the pediatric field, but OTs did not actually work with children until the mid-20th century.
  • In 1975, public schools began employing thousands of OTs to help disabled children.
  • The American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) celebrated their 100-year anniversary in 2017. Their founding name was the National Society for the Promotion of Occupational Therapy. Today, membership includes over 65,000 occupational therapists, occupational therapy assistants, and students.

Speech Therapy Fun Facts 

  • The speech language pathology profession began in the 18th century in England.
  • Many World War II soldiers suffered brain injuries and had resulting aphasia. Thus, the need for speech rehabilitation services attracted large numbers of men and women to the profession of speech therapy.
  • The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) began in 1925 at a meeting of the National Association of Teachers of Speech in New York City.
  • Since the establishment of the American Academy of Speech Correction in 1925, the association has changed its name four times, and formally became known as the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association in 1978.
  • Today, ASHA membership includes over 218,000 speech therapists.

This article was written by Jami Cooley

To learn more about the services provided by West Texas Rehab, go to https://westtexasrehab.org/services/