Greetings! My name is Halle Stephenson, and I am Thrive OT’s capstone student. I am currently pursuing my Doctorate of Occupational Therapy at Creighton University with plans to graduate this May! While I am originally from southeast South Dakota, Omaha has been my beloved second home for over 5 years. In my free time, I enjoy shopping, golfing, working out, playing pickleball, and working on puzzles. It has been a pleasure meeting and treating many clients thus far, and I look forward to the relationships I will continue to build during my capstone experience.

For this blog, I want to discuss a tool that is often underutilized, despite being free, easy, and effective: breathwork.

What is breathwork? Breathwork is the use of controlled inhalation and exhalation to promote oxygen and carbon dioxide exchange for every cell in our body. Beyond the exchange of gases, breathwork directly impacts the autonomic nervous system, cardiovascular system, respiratory system, lymphatic system, endocrine system, and digestive system. The immediate benefits of breathwork include relaxation, decreased heart rate and blood pressure, and enhanced mood. In the long term, regular practice can improve stress resilience, heart rate variability, neuroplasticity, anxiety and depression, cognitive performance, pressure management, and emotional regulation (Balban et al., 2023; Fincham et al., 2023). One of my favorite things about breathwork is that it is free and can be used anywhere, at any time.

Since breathwork is such a versatile tool, the best way to use it is by stacking it with habits you already have. You might try a few rounds of breathwork while making coffee in the morning, during your shower, or before eating lunch. While it’s incredibly effective as a rescue tool when you feel stressed or overwhelmed, practicing it during calm moments helps build long-term resilience. The key is that you incorporate it into your routine when you feel it is most beneficial for you.

In my own life, I enjoy practicing breathwork before I exercise to help eliminate distractions and connect my mind and my body. I also find it helpful before exams, important meetings, and when I am stuck in traffic. For me, controlled breathing helps bring me back to a regulated state, allowing me to process my thoughts and emotions.

There are many types of breathwork, but below I will review a few of my favorites.

Box Breathing 

1. Breathe in for four seconds
2. Hold for four seconds
3. Exhale for four seconds
4. Hold again for four seconds
5. Repeat for 5 minutes

Cyclic Sighing

1. Slowly breathe in through your nose
2. Take a second, shorter inhale
3. Very slowly exhale through your mouth until all of the air is gone
4. Repeat for 5 minutes

Diaphragmatic Breathing (or Belly Breathing) 

1. Sitting in a chair or lying on your back, place one hand on your chest, one hand on your abdomen
2. Slowly breathe in through your nose, while your ribs expand in all directions and your belly moves out against your hand
3. Slowly exhale through your mouth, while your ribs and belly return to a neutral position
4. Repeat for 5 minutes

Breathwork is a powerful tool that can have a profound impact on your physical, emotional, and spiritual health. If you have questions or want to learn how to use specific techniques for your unique health goals, be sure to ask your occupational therapist here at Thrive!

References: 

Balban, M. Y., Neri, E., Kautz, M. M., Zeitzer, J. M., Spiegel, D., & Huberman, A. D. (2023). Brief structured respiration practices enhance mood and reduce physiological arousal. Cell Reports Medicine, 4(1), 100895. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.xcrm.2022.100895

Fincham, G. W., Strauss, C., Montero-Marin, J., & Cavanagh, K. (2023). Effect of breathwork on stress and mental health: A meta-analysis of randomised-controlled trials. Scientific Reports, 13(1), 432. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-022-27247-y

Thank You!

I’m personally writing to you to share a life update. To start, I want to make sure that I adequately convey my overwhelming appreciation for your support over the past eight years. Do not worry – Thrive OT Harlan, Omaha and Gretna are stronger than ever with plans to continue serving these communities for years to come. In fact, we are introducing local Harlan team members who recently joined us. Now, please indulge me for a moment as we relive the growth of Thrive OT.

The Journey 

What a journey it has been! And continues to be. Beginning as a fleeting dream while driving in my car, to late nights putting pen to paper drafting business plans and vision statements, to the courage of seeing an idea come to life as each trusting client walked through my door… Thrive OT has grown leaps and bounds. 

From October 2017 to October 2022, I was a one-woman show. Many of you remember these days! If there was a hat to wear getting my new business startup off the ground, I wore it. After a full day treating clients, I often spent my evenings driving within a 1-2 hour radius of Harlan to present at any event that would have me; I remember seeing attendees’ eyes light up with hope as they connected the dots for their personal health. I am still passionate about sharing occupational therapy’s unique role in pelvic health and beyond, and “presenter” has become a title I proudly wear. 

How beautiful it is to watch something you so carefully, and fearfully, plant grow bit by bit, while showering it with love, respect, and a whole bunch of grit. 

In the fall of 2022, I got a wild hair (this isn’t shocking to those who know me well). Instead of taking the week off for a family trip as I had originally pencilled into my calendar, I decided to spend my week devoid of patient care, inundating myself with everything needed to hire a fellow occupational therapist team member. Insert Marissa! After a phone call where I shared my desire to help more people by expanding our team, Marissa enthusiastically said “I’m interested. What do we need to do?” Since then, she shows up with the same “What do we need to do” attitude regarding my many business ideas and future forecasting, and I’m confident this venture will be no different. 

For the next three years, we vigorously worked to bring Thrive OT’s vision and mission to life in new places. We happily watered our flagship Harlan location, while planting new seeds elsewhere. It felt as if I was starting my business all over: late nights, fear of failure, enthusiasm for what could be, and a persistently personal vulnerability. Oh, how it has been worth it.

Through the hard times, we leaned into our core values to guide us. I am continually committed to protecting and supporting our team and clients by upholding these core values, my favorite of which are passion and integrity. 

At Thrive OT we embody the power of reciprocity and prioritize respect for everyone in our orbit. This has allowed us to attract a large team of wonderful practitioners and support staff, while serving blossoming caseloads who trust our vision and mission. Our amazing team has grown to 13 employees and counting. Wow! 

A Day in the Life 

As the business changes, so too does my role.  My days are ever-evolving and often unpredictable. I desperately miss connecting with my clients, yet I relish in the exhilarating, albeit painful, ebb and flow of entrepreneurship. I’ve learned to lean into the discomfort, and my skills are put to the test with each hardship. Every win we celebrate together developed on the heels of unseen failures and persistence. 

I often joke that each day hundreds of baseballs are thrown my direction, and I need to know which one to hit to ensure our continued success. I now have the pleasure of mentoring our team so they, too, can hit one out of the park. During my doctoral program, I learned about servant leadership. I promised myself I would implement these qualities if Thrive OT ever expanded. Now, we proudly offer a supportive place of employment, where our committed team has the space to challenge themselves personally and professionally. I am fiercely protective of our work culture and our team members who lead with kindness and respect. 

With some of my prior responsibilities currently upheld by leaders on our team, I am committed to seeking new opportunities for our company, while ensuring the train continues down the track. My husband once described me as tenacious. “Where do you come up with these things?” he often asks me as I enthusiastically share yet another idea. 

He’s not wrong – I am wired for progress. I feel an immense amount of gratitude to be in this position, to experience the pressure of pushing boundaries while embarking on adventures in unchartered territory.

The Future 

The following reveal may not be news to some of you. If this is the first you are hearing of it, I hope you imagine us sitting in my office, sharing our life goals and updates, and possibly shedding a tear together. 

My husband and I feel called to move closer to my hometown in Kansas and purchased land for a homestead. I have not lived near my old stomping grounds in 20+ years. With us raising our kids without grandparents nearby for many years, and my sister growing her sweet family, we feel a deep ache to return home.  

After leaning into our hearts’ desires and praying for direction, many gifts unfolded; one such gift was locating two wonderful occupational therapists near Harlan, an undertaking I have been pursuing for nearly three years! 

I appreciate your grace with our balancing act of navigating personal timelines and providing our valued clients with transparency. 

Takeaway 

How wonderfully life unfolds when you relinquish control, find peace in the discomfort, and persevere during moments of fear and uncertainty. In the spring of 2026, the aforementioned changes will take root. While we are heartbroken to leave a community we saw our family residing in for years to come, we find ourselves smiling through the tears and gazing at the opportunities that lie ahead. 

My mind sees the future like artwork, dancing in front of me, coming to life one challenge at a time. I am eager to bring Thrive OT to Kansas, to serve family, friends and communities neighboring my core childhood memories. 

For the foreseeable future, we are excited to pursue RV life as a family while visiting all Thrive OT locations, an endeavor our family has grown accustomed to over the past few years while opening and supporting our Omaha and Gretna clinics. 

Logistics 

Our Harlan team is committed to providing quality services and upholding our core values. In addition to our stellar occupational therapists who currently serve Harlan, we are also integrating our recently hired and local occupational therapists, Andrea and Hayli, so please help them feel welcome. I have seen firsthand how much love they have for this community. My mission has always been to provide exceptional health and wellness services, and I am confident our team will continue to champion this calling. 

This Is Not Goodbye! 

Please be on the lookout for future emails detailing a fun Thrive OT event in February 2026. I will be attending, along with Marissa, Andrea, and Hayli. We all look forward to seeing you there. 

Thank you for trusting me and our Thrive OT family. 

Warmly, 

Erica Stevens 

Hello everyone! It’s Maddie again! As my capstone experience comes to a close, I thought it would be the perfect opportunity to reflect on what I’ve learned at Thrive OT and tell you just how unique and special it is!

One thing that truly stands out about Thrive OT is the name itself. Here at Thrive, our occupational therapists are genuinely passionate about helping you do just that—thrive! Occupational therapy focuses on helping people return to activities that add meaning to their lives. The therapists at Thrive not only assist you with this but also aim to ensure you’re living life to its fullest potential. They’re experts in assessing your physical, mental, spiritual, and emotional health, crafting your treatment plan to meet your unique needs. Their mission is simple: they want YOU to thrive, using their skills and expertise to help you achieve your goals and enjoy the activities you love.

If you’re new to our community or just need a little refresher on our wide range of services, let me take a moment to give you a sneak peek into what we offer. At Thrive OT, we wholeheartedly believe in a holistic approach to occupational therapy, emphasizing not just physical rehabilitation, but overall health and wellness as well. Our clients are truly the heartbeat of our practice, and our mission is centered on empowering each individual to engage fully in their daily activities—without pain or discomfort. Think of us as your dedicated partners in wellness, equipped with knowledge, empathy, and innovative tools to support you in achieving a lifetime of feeling fantastic!

We proudly serve a diverse clientele, offering a range of specialized services tailored to meet various needs. This includes myofascial therapy to relieve tightness, lymphatic drainage to boost detoxification, pelvic floor therapy for bowel or bladder issues, and comprehensive prenatal and postpartum care focusing on the well-being of both mother and baby. We also emphasize essential aspects, such as improving posture to prevent discomfort, enhancing core stability for functional movement, breathing techniques for relaxation and stress relief, gut health strategies for optimal digestion, and overall wellness practices to empower you to live your best life. With our highly skilled occupational therapists by your side, we are committed to uncovering and addressing the unique challenges that may be holding you back from enjoying your daily life.

Building meaningful, supportive relationships with our clients is at the heart of our philosophy. Here at Thrive OT, our exceptional therapists bring a wealth of knowledge, compassion, and diverse interests to every session, ensuring we can tailor our approach to your specific needs and goals. We see you as more than just a client; you are a valued member of our thriving community, and we truly look forward to helping you regain independence in what matters most to you—whether that’s playing with your children, partaking in your hobbies, or simply feeling comfortable in your daily activities.

Remember, no question is too silly or insignificant! We wholeheartedly welcome any questions or concerns you might have; they are essential in shaping your therapeutic journey. Our main goal is to help you overcome any challenges you may encounter, so you can continue doing what you love and find joy in every day.

We can’t wait to embark on this incredible journey with you, guiding you toward a more fulfilling and comfortable life filled with positivity and wellness!

It’s Maddie here, Thrive’s Capstone student, and today I want to dive into a topic that affects so many of us—posture and positioning. Did you know that low back pain affects more than 80% of adults? Whether it’s from sitting at your desk, lifting your child, or even just walking around, back pain can be a real nuisance. A big part of the problem could stem from how we position our pelvis. 

Many of us struggle with maintaining correct posture. Often, we find ourselves slouching or bending forward while working on our computers, reading a book, or even responding to a quick text. This forward lean can directly impact the alignment of your pelvis. If your pelvis isn’t properly aligned with your spine, it can lead to pain and discomfort in your lower back. 

Here at Thrive, we take pride in being experts in pelvic function and posture. We recognize the critical connection between maintaining good posture and the alignment of your pelvis. And guess what? There are simple ways to correct poor posture and reduce the stress and pain that it might be inflicting on your pelvic region! One effective strategy I’d like to introduce you to is the “pelvic tilt.” This maneuver can realign your spine with your pelvis, which can enhance your daily functioning whether you’re standing, sitting, or strolling around. Plus, practicing pelvic tilts can help repair and reinforce your core muscles, which can potentially alleviate low back pain or sciatic discomfort. 

First, let’s get a clear picture of what proper posture and a pelvic tilt look like so we can visualize ourselves making positive changes. Anterior pelvic tilt is when your bottom sticks out, your shoulders are pushed back too far, and your chest is jutting forward. Here, your pelvis rotates forward, causing the back of the pelvis to rise. You might think of this as “sticking out” your bottom, which creates an exaggerated curve in your spine and can lead to tight hips and a stiff lower back. This also often indicates poor strength in your glutes and abdominal muscles.   

On the flip side, we have posterior pelvic tilt. This is when your chest leans forward and down, resulting in a hump at the top of your back. People may present with a more slouched posture. In this position, the pelvis rotates upward, and the back part of the pelvis is tucked below. This leads to a flat lower back, stiff glutes and legs, and weak hips and low back muscles. Individuals with this tilt may feel stiff or experience pain in their hips, which can make walking comfortably a bit challenging. 

Now, you might be wondering how to correct this. Let’s practice a pelvic tilt!  

1. Lay on the floor and bend your knees.
2. Keep your palms facing the floor and position your arms close to your body.
3. There should be a bit of space between your back and the floor—this is normal.
4. Take a deep breath in, and as you breathe out, activate your abdominal muscles so that your tailbone tilts upward, reducing the space between your lower back and the floor.
5. Inhale, then return your spine and pelvis to the starting position.
6. Repeat this sequence five times.

You can also practice this in a standing or sitting position! 

Taking care of our posture is so vital not only for our physical comfort but also for our overall health. Start incorporating pelvic tilts into your routine, and you may notice a significant difference in how you feel—both in and out of the office!

 References:

Asher, A. (2024, October 10). How to do a pelvic tilt. Verywell Health. https://www.verywellhealth.com/pelvic-tilt-exercise-for-your-lower-back-296802

 Richardson, J. (n.d.). How to do pelvic tilt exercise and why you should. Chicago Pelvic. https://www.chicagopelvic.com/blog/pelvic-tilt-exercise-back-pain-core-strength-guide#:~:text=What%20Muscles%20Do%20Pelvic%20Tilts,in%20pelvic%20control%20and%20stability.

Hello everyone! It’s Maddie, Thrive’s occupational therapy capstone student. I hope you enjoyed my previous posts about grounding techniques and stimulating the vagus nerve. Today, I want to explore a topic that has significant implications for our overall health: hormones—specifically, estrogen and progesterone.

Hormones are crucial in regulating various bodily functions, including mood, metabolism, and reproductive health. Estrogen and progesterone are two key hormones that greatly influence our well-being. Let’s take a closer look at their functions, importance, and ways to maintain balanced levels for optimal health.

Estrogen: The Female Vitality Hormone

Estrogen is essential for sexual and reproductive health, with levels fluctuating throughout the menstrual cycle. It typically peaks just before ovulation, signaling the body to prepare for potential conception. Estrogen is vital during puberty as it contributes to the development of secondary sexual characteristics.

As women approach menopause, however, estrogen levels decline significantly. This decline can lead to various symptoms, including hot flashes, mood swings, and vaginal dryness. It’s important to note that elevated estrogen levels may indicate underlying health conditions such as endometriosis or uterine fibroids, while low levels can signal ovarian insufficiency or menopause.

Estrogen is primarily produced by the ovaries and is also generated by the adrenal glands and placenta during pregnancy.

In addition to its role in reproduction, estrogen also serves several other important functions:

• Cholesterol Management: Helps regulate cholesterol levels.
• Blood Sugar Regulation: Plays a role in maintaining stable blood sugar.
• Bone Health: Supports the strength and density of bones.

Tips for Maintaining Healthy Estrogen Levels

To keep your estrogen levels in check, consider the following lifestyle tips:

• Prioritize Sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night.
• Manage Stress: Incorporate stress-reducing practices like yoga, meditation, or deep breathing.
• Stay Active: Engage in regular physical activity to promote hormonal balance.
• Limit Alcohol: Excessive alcohol can disrupt hormone production.
• Eat a Balanced Diet: Focus on whole foods, including plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats.

Progesterone: The Pregnancy Hormone

Progesterone plays a crucial role in the menstrual cycle and pregnancy. After ovulation, the corpus luteum forms and produces progesterone, which thickens the uterine lining, preparing it for the possible implantation of a fertilized egg. If conception occurs, progesterone levels rise to support the pregnancy, eventually transitioning to production by the placenta. Conversely, if fertilization does not happen, progesterone levels drop, leading to menstruation.

This hormone is also important for mood regulation, thyroid health, and lactation. Low progesterone levels can result in a range of issues, including irregular periods, fertility challenges, mood swings, and sleep disturbances.

Boosting Progesterone Levels Naturally

If you’re looking to support healthy progesterone production, consider integrating more of the following foods into your diet:

• Vitamin B: Carrots and spinach
• Vitamin C: Citrus fruits and broccoli
• Magnesium: Nuts and seeds
• Zinc: Chickpeas and eggs

Understanding estrogen and progesterone is key to navigating female health throughout various life stages. By focusing on lifestyle choices that promote hormonal balance and eating a nutritious diet, you can support your overall well-being and reproductive health.

Remember, if you suspect any hormonal imbalances, it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice and care.

References:

Cleveland Clinic. (2022, February 8). Estrogen. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/body/22353-estrogen 

Cleveland Clinic. (2022, December 29). Progesterone. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/body/24562-progesterone 

Hey everyone! It’s Maddie again, Thrive’s occupational therapy capstone student. I hope you enjoyed my last post about grounding techniques. Today, I want to dive deeper into the realm of mindfulness and relaxation by discussing something that might be unfamiliar to some of you: the vagus nerve.

If you’re like many people, you’ve probably experienced feelings of anxiety and uncertainty at some point. Whether it’s due to school pressure, career worries, family dynamics, or life’s unexpected twists and turns, it can be overwhelming. This is why I felt motivated to write this blog post—a little resource to help you regain some control over your nervous system and find that inner peace we all crave.

So, what exactly is the vagus nerve? It’s a crucial part of our parasympathetic nervous system, often referred to as the “rest and digest” system. When stimulated, it can help calm the mind and body, reducing stress and anxiety. Here are a few simple yet effective strategies to help you stimulate your vagus nerve:

1. Deep Breathing: Focus on deep, diaphragmatic breathing. Inhale deeply through your nose for a count of four, hold for four, then exhale through your mouth for a count of six. Repeat this several times to help activate your vagus nerve and promote relaxation.
2. Vocalization: Engaging your voice can be surprisingly effective! Try humming, singing, or even chanting. These activities can stimulate the vagus nerve and help soothe your nervous system.
3. Cold Exposure: Splashing cold water on your face or taking a cold shower can provide a shock to your system that helps activate the vagus nerve. Just a few seconds can make a noticeable difference!
4. Meditation and Mindfulness: Practicing mindfulness meditation can help connect you with your body and calm the mind. Take a moment to focus on your breath or observe your thoughts without judgment.
5. Yoga and Physical Movement: Gentle movements like yoga or tai chi can help regulate your body and activate the vagus nerve. Incorporating stretches and mindful movements can promote a sense of calm and well-being.

Remember, you are not alone in your experiences, and there are tools available to help navigate these difficult times. As you explore these vagus nerve stimulation techniques, I hope they provide you with some relief and a sense of control over your stress.

As always, I’m here to share insights and strategies that can help on your journey to wellness. Let’s embrace these practices together and take steps toward enhancing our well-being.

Until next time, take care!

— Maddie

References:

Cleveland Clinic. (2022, March 10). 5 ways to stimulate your vagus nerve. https://health.clevelandclinic.org/vagus-nerve-stimulation

Hauser, R. (n.d.). How you can repair your vagus nerves. Caring Medical Florida. https://caringmedical.com/can-repair-vagus-nerves/

Jakubiec, C. (2024, July 8). 10 ways to stimulate your vagus nerve (+ why it’s important). Anchored In Health. https://drcindyjakubiec.com/10-ways-to-stimulate-your-vagus-nerve-why-its-important/

Paturel, A. (2024, March 21). Bolster your brain by stimulating the vagus nerve. Cedars Sinai. https://www.cedars-sinai.org/blog/stimulating-the-vagus-nerve.html#:~:text=Take%20a%20breath.,of%20your%20surroundings%20and%20breathe.

Schwartz, A. (n.d.). The vagus nerve and eye movements: Tools for trauma recovery. https://drarielleschwartz.com/the-vagus-nerve-and-eye-movements-tools-for-trauma-recovery-dr-arielle-schwartz/#:~:text=The%20vagus%20nerve%20and%20eye%20movements%20are%20interconnected.,far%2Doff%20in%20the%20distance.

Schwartz, A. (n.d.). Vagus nerve yoga. https://drarielleschwartz.com/vagus-nerve-yoga-dr-arielle-schwartz/#

Somatopia. (2023, August 27). Reset your nervous system: Somatic tools for vagal tone. https://www.somatopia.com/blog/reset-your-nervous-system-somatic-tools-for-vagal-tone#:~:text=Various%20somatic%20practices%20naturally%20strengthen,vagal%20control%20of%20the%20heart.

Hi there! My name is Maddie Hubka, and I am a third-year occupational therapy student at the University of Nebraska Medical Center. Currently, I am in the final semester of my program, where I am completing my capstone experience at Thrive OT. In conjunction with this clinical experience, I am developing educational resources aimed at informing students, therapists, and the public about holistic women’s health and wellness. The objective of these blog posts is to share information that I have acquired throughout my capstone experience. I intend to educate the public in order to promote optimal health and wellness.

As a graduate student, it’s common to experience significant stress due to the demands of academic work, professional responsibilities, and personal obligations. Many individuals can relate to feelings of anxiety and uncertainty about the future, which may stem from concerns about upcoming exams, career prospects, or external circumstances that feel beyond one’s control. In light of these challenges, I decided to create this blog post as a resource for others navigating similar experiences. Throughout my capstone journey, I discovered a tool that has proven beneficial for my relaxation and overall wellness. I hope that sharing these insights and strategies can aid others in managing stress and enhancing their well-being.

Some of my happiest memories are from childhood with my younger brothers, growing up in the countryside. One joyful experience we share is running outside barefoot, which evokes strong feelings of nostalgia and peace. The sensation of cool grass between the toes while playing outdoors fosters a sense of calmness and connectedness to the earth. This practice, often referred to as “grounding” or “earthing,” has been studied for its potential benefits, including reducing stress, improving mood, and enhancing overall well-being.

Engaging with the natural environment in this way can offer a deeper appreciation for our surroundings. Grounding, also known as “earthing”, is a practice that involves reconnecting with the Earth’s natural electrical energy. People who practice grounding often report feeling healthier, more energetic, and in better spirits, along with a significant reduction in pain.

Benefits of grounding:

• positive physical and mental well-being
• reduced inflammation
• lowered stress levels
• alleviated pain
• improved blood circulation
• enhanced energy
• better sleep quality
• overall sense of well-being

The Earth has long been recognized as a vital power source for electrical industries, and its benefits extend to our health as well. However, modern lifestyles—characterized by wearing shoes and spending time in high-rise buildings—can distance us from direct contact with the ground. This separation may result in imbalances in our bodies and a diminished sense of connection to nature.

Engaging in grounding is simple and accessible. To practice grounding, one can step outside and walk barefoot, allowing the sensations of various natural surfaces—be it grass, soil, gravel, stone, or sand—to connect with the feet. Each surface provides a distinct experience while facilitating the grounding process. Similar to how sunlight delivers vital vitamin D, the ground serves as an excellent source of energy.

Grounding can be practiced for any duration, depending on individual preferences. For those unable to access outdoor spaces, grounding mats or devices are available for use indoors, making it possible to benefit from this practice at home or in the office. For more information about grounding or grounding mats, please consult your therapist at Thrive OT. You can also use the link below for our recommendations on our favorite grounding materials.

Hooga Grounding Materials: Visit this link.

Hooga Code: Thrive12

References:

Meningoz, W., Latz, T. T., Ely, R. A., Kamei, C., Melvin, G., & Sinatra, D. (2020). Integrative and lifestyle medicine strategies should include earthing (grounding): Review of research evidence and clinical observations. Elsevier, 16(3), 152-160. 10.1016/j.explore.2019.10.005

My name is Julia Anderson and I am a third-year occupational therapy student at Creighton University. In this last semester of school, I am diving deep in the role of occupational therapy in topics such as maternal, pelvic, and women’s health. I am completing part of my time here at Thrive OT to gain further knowledge on these topics and gain more hands on experience. These blog pieces are reflections of what I have learned so far and would love to share with all of you.

For most of my life I though an injury was done healing once the wound was closed, or stitches removed. It was not until my clinical rotation at a Burn ICU that I truly learned healing continues past scar formation. Throughout my time there, I learned scar management, healing timelines, and the important steps of caring for scars.

The scar information I am sharing includes C-section, post operative, wound, and burn scars.

The process of wound healing and scarring lasts months up to years. Scar tissue is thick and lays down in a variety of directions, different than how other tissue lays. Many factors impact how our bodies scar. This includes genetics, hydration, sleep, nutrition, and activity level. Specifically, hydration, sleep, and vitamin rich nutrition aids in wound healing.

So, you may notice scars becoming thicker and changing color a few months after the wound or incision. This is due to scar tissue formation increasing during this timeframe. During this time, scars can cause discomfort, fascial restrictions, adhesions, and pain. If you are not already, this is an essential time to receive occupational therapy services for scar management.

What do we do at Thrive OT to address scars?

• Manual techniques: Scar tissue mobilization softens the tissue and allows the scar and surrounding areas to move with more ease. This will reduce adhesions and fascial restrictions occurring from scars. This will help you have more range of motion and less of a pulling sensation.
• Desensitization: Nerve recovery is also correlated with scar formation. Scars may start as itchy and then either become numb or hypersensitive. We can help with sensory recovery so you can wear clothes comfortably and decrease pain.
• Compression: If appropriate for your scar and location, compression can help manage scars. Compression helps to flatten and soften scar tissue. It is necessary for a therapist to assist with finding the right size, fit, and compression in the garment.
• Other Tips: Moisture is a crucial part at supporting tissue healing and improving scar tissue mobility. Our therapists can determine when this is right for you and guide through when and how to moisturize.

Additionally, at Thrive OT we are here to address scarring at any stage, whether it’s a month or 2 years old. It is commonly said that scars a fully formed at 1 year, but we can still address mobility and adhesions no matter the age of the scar.

Lastly, at Thrive OT we provide holistic care. We will look at all aspects of your health that may have been impacted by scarring. This includes mental health, internal physical wellbeing, posture, breathing, etc… We will treat the whole you while being scar informed.

Resources:

American Society for Surgery of the Hand. (2016) Scar Treatment. Handcare the upper Extremity Expert. https://www.assh.org/handcare/condition/scar-treatment

Darby, I., & Desmouliere, A. (2020). Scar formation: Cellular mechanisms. Textbook on Scar Management: State of the Art Management and Emerging Technologies (Ch 3). Springer. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK586083/

St. George’s University Hospitals. (2020). Scars and Scar Massage. https://www.stgeorges.nhs.uk/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Scar-scar-massage.pdf