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PTPN has given its annual ACE Award for Achievement in Clinical Excellence to a Colorado member, Joanna Goldin, PT.
Joanna, owner of Sport and Spine Physical Therapy, with offices in Brighton, Centennial, Englewood and Littleton, developed the “Moving Through Cancer” program in collaboration with colleague Mary Sundland, RN, CES, a cancer and exercise specialist. The program customizes fitness and wellness plans for people going through any stage of cancer treatment.
“We wanted to reach out to those coping with cancer because they can receive tremendous benefits from physical therapy before, during or after their cancer treatments,” said Joanna. “Recent studies confirm that exercise helps cancer patients build energy levels, fight fatigue, regain range of motion and functional strength, and enhance immune function.”
In designing the procedures and protocols for the program, Joanna and Mary did extensive research on exercise for cancer patients and also consulted with an oncologist and plastic surgeon to develop a safe and effective exercise program. Joanna says that in addition to requiring patients to have a prescription from their physician to participate in the program, the clinic stays in contact with the physician to ensure therapy treatment is within the boundaries set for the patient.
“Moving Through Cancer,” which includes assessments and guidance by licensed PTs, medical exercise specialists and registered dieticians, is a two-tiered wellness program. In the first tier, exercises are closely supervised based on the patient’s lab values and fatigue levels. During the second tier, more independence is given and small group exercise programs are encouraged.
The clinic uses Pilates equipment, as well as standard treadmills, and includes both aerobic exercises and resistance training. Patients may also receive dietary management, at-home or travel care education, scar tissue release, lymphedema drainage and massage therapy. The clinic also offers a scholarship program for cancer patients who are experiencing financial hardship.
“We decided to honor Joanna and Mary for their outstanding efforts to provide cancer patients with a rehabilitation and wellness program that enables them to live their lives as fully as possible,” said PTPN Director of Quality Assurance Mitch Kaye, PT.
The PTPN ACE Award was created to recognize and encourage PTPN providers’ groundbreaking clinical success in the fields of physical, occupational and speech therapy. The winner was selected by a judging committee made up of PTPN member therapists. The award includes a cash prize, a free online clinical education course and media publicity.
To request the protocol for this award-winning program, click here.
Past Winners
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