Physical Therapy

More than just Physical Therapy At North Tahoe Physical Therapy, we offer a unique combination of Myofascial Release, Hands-on soft tissue mobilization, skeletal mobilizations, Pilates- based exercises, Education and Self Management. Our therapists are highly trained, experienced professionals. We provide a strong interaction between you, your doctor and your physical therapist.  North Tahoe Physical Therapy uses a 1-on-1 approach to Physical therapy with exceptional customer service. We treat you as a whole person, not just your injury. Each client obtains a thorough explanation of their condition. Your physician receives timely reports regarding your progress. We empower you to become active partners in your recovery and health maintenance. Our personalized approach results in your wellness and satisfaction. Click here for client testimonials. The cornerstone of our approach is Myofascial Release. Find out more about Myofascial Release

Our Treatment Philosophy Our treatment philosophy is based on the pelvis, the base of the spine.  We believe the pelvis is the foundation of the body.  This foundation must be level for the head and neck to sit properly and for the legs to hit the ground evenly.  When a client comes to us with “low back pain”, we begin by assessing the pelvis for symmetry.  If the pelvis is rotated or if the trunk is shortened on one side, the surrounding soft tissues will attempt to stabilize the system.  This may lead to muscle spasms, pain, or tension of the nerves and the discs which sit atop the pelvis. Additionally, the spine may rotate and side bend in response to the un-level base below.  Consequently, the head which sits atop the spine will be un-level. Our bodies are smart.  If our spine is rotated, we naturally adjust our head to have our eyes level. This may lead to issues of muscle spasms, muscle tension, TMJ/jaw disorders and headaches. So, for a person who comes to NTPT complaining of TMJ, headache or neck pain, our treatment starts at the pelvis. Like a house if the foundation is not level, the roof will crack and the windows won’t easily slide open or close. Therefore, it only makes sense to balance the pelvis, which is the foundation of the body. Self empowerment A maintenance program of Home exercises, education about how to avoid aggravating your condition, and awareness of how you can help yourself are important components of your care. North Tahoe Physical therapy, we empower you to be an active participant in your health and wellness. You may spend 1-3 hours a week with our team of therapists at North Tahoe Physical Therapy. There are 168 hours in a week. What are you doing the other 165 hours? Get well • Orthopedics • Sports Injury Care • Back and Neck care • Incontinence/Pelvic Floor Dysfunction • TMJ/Migraines/Headaches Stay Well • Myofascial Release therapy • Massage • Personal training • Medically Supervised gym • PILATES • Classes and workshops Address the Symptoms, look elsewhere for the Cause At North Tahoe Physical Therapy, we treat the cause of your problems. Our evaluation is a full body assessment. We look for Pelvic imbalances, fascial pulls, and postural abnormalities. We then determine how these deficits may have created your symptoms. For example, neck or jaw problems may arise from an unlevel pelvis. Knee issues may be due to a pelvis imbalance. If we only treated the symptomatic jaw without leveling the pelvis, the issues will return because the problem has not been corrected. By treating the cause, we are able to address and decrease the symptoms.

About Us

Our Mission Our highly skilled team at North Tahoe Physical Therapy is focused on helping you to achieve your optimal state of health through exceptional therapy, education and personalized treatment programs designed to return you to the lifestyle that you desire. Our Staff Jane O’Brien, MSPT Advanced Myofascial Release Practitioner Women’s Health Therapist Jane is the owner and director of North Tahoe Physical Therapy. She received her Master of Science Degree from Boston University in 1992. She has over 15 years experience in treatment of orthopedics, women’s health, and pain. Jane has extensively trained in manual therapies such as Myofascial release, Craniosacral therapy, and spinal and joint mobilizations, dynamic stabilization exercises and strength and conditioning. Since 2000, Jane has been an instructor for John Barnes’ Myofascial Release Seminars. While living in Sedona, Jane trained and worked with Barnes at his clinic.  She presents several workshops annually on the Myofascial Release technique. Jane is currently in pursuit of the Certificate of Achievement in Pelvic Physical Therapy (CAPP). This honor is granted to physical therapists that have completed the required training and testing through the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) Section on Women’s Health. The CAPP demonstrates dedication and advanced training in the field of Women’s Health. She expects to complete her studies and receive the CAPP in Spring 2009. Memberships: APTA-American Physical Therapy Association, Section on Women’s Health AAUW- American Association of University Women Hobbies: Belly dancing, skiing, hiking, rollerblading, Brian Hrindo, MT Brian graduated from Bowling Green State University in northwestern Ohio with a Bachelor of Education in Kinesiology, where he studied Early Childhood Development and Effective Movement in Athletes. He has been practicing as a Massage Therapist since graduating from the Utah College of Massage Therapy. Brian specializes in injury massage, Russian Sports Massage, Craniosacral Therapy, and Deep Tissue Massage. He has trained under John F. Barnes, international lecturer and authority on Myofascial Release, and has become a highly skilled Myofascial Release practitioner. In his spare time, Brian enjoys relaxing on his boat on Lake Tahoe, skiing, mountain biking, and rafting the rivers of the Wild West. Rebecca L. Deal, MPT Rebecca received her Master of Science degree from California State University, Long Beach in 2005. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science and a minor in Nutrition from the University of California, Davis. She believes in helping people by educating and empowering them to take responsibility for their health.In her spare time, she enjoys snowboarding, snowshoeing, and hiking the Tahoe trails with her dog.

Our Location 889 Alder Ave., Suite 105 Incline Village, NV 89451 775-831-6600 office 775-831-6697 fax We are located on the ground floor of the Lakeside Medical and Professional Building, across the street from the hospital. Our History North Tahoe Physical Therapy was established in the 1980’s in Incline Village, NV. by Claudia Dill, PT. Ten years later, Thom Werner, PT, bought North Tahoe Physical Therapy and operated the clinic for 14 years. In 2003, Jane O’Brien, MSPT, became the 3rd owner of North Tahoe Physical Therapy. Jane O’Brien, MSPT, director and owner of North Tahoe Physical Therapy, says, “Many people think of physical therapy as exercise and hot packs. We want to change that perception. We believe that a hands-on, intuitive approach combined with movement is the key to healing and restoration of function. Our staff has dedicated many years learning to use our hands as tools for healing.”

Physical Therapy Hows & Whys

Is Physical Therapy a good way to get started on an exercise program if you have been inactive for a long period of time or is a personal trainer a better option?

It is always best to consult with your doctor before beginning an exercise after prolonged inactivity. Your doctor will perform a complete physical and determine if you will be at risk or if you are safe to begin an exercise program. If the MD gives you the “Go Ahead”, physical therapy is your best option for proceeding.

The PT will evaluate your body before developing an exercise program. Tests may include an assessment of muscle strength in your arms, legs and core. He or she will assess your flexibility, your ligamentous stability, your range of motion in your joints, your endurance level, and your current fitness level. The PT will measure our blood pressure and your heart rate at rest and determine an appropriate activity level for your exercise program. He or she can tailor the program towards your specific fitness goals, for example, weight loss, improved endurance, strength gains, toning or others you may have in mind. If you wish, the PT can also measure your body fat level and develop a plan to reduce that level.

One benefit of beginning a fitness program with a PT is that you are being medically monitored. As you proceed with your fitness program, the PT will assess your heart rate and blood pressure before, during and after activity. Your exercises will be adjusted accordingly. If you have any previous injuries, alert the PT so that area can be protected in your program to prevent a flare up. Additionally, the PT can add exercise to your program to rehabilitate the injured area.

One last advantage of a fitness program which is performed under the direction of a Physical Therapist is the price. A medically guided program may be covered under your health insurance. This means that you may only need to pay for your copayment or coinsurance. If, however, you do not have insurance, many Physical Therapists provide personal training to their clients. The cost may be slightly higher than the fee a personal trainer may charge (about $10-$20 on average). But, the Physical Therapist is a medical professional who has either a Masters or a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree and is trained in the biomechanics of the body, muscle structure and function, injuries and rehab, anatomy and physiology, orthopedics, and strengthening and conditioning.
North Tahoe Physical Therapy works with many clients for reconditioning programs both through insurance and on a cash payment basis. We also offer personal training and Pilates exercise programs.

-Jane O’Brien, MSPT

Pelvic Floor Dysfunction and Physical Therapy

North Tahoe Physical Therapy June 11, 2008

The term pelvic floor refers to the sling of muscles, ligaments, and fascia which spans from the front of the pelvis at the pubic bone to the posterior pelvis at the tail bone. The purpose of the musculature is to support the pelvic organs (uterus, colon, and bladder), allow for control of the outlets (urethra and rectum) and provide tone for sensation for the sexual functions. It is important for this area to have proper muscle tone. Excess tone of the muscles can cause difficulty sitting, pain during intercourse, hip and low back pain or retention. Diminished tone may lead to incontinence, organ prolapse and possibly decreased sexual response.
Commonly, people associate pelvic floor dysfunction with incontinence. However, there are a myriad of diagnoses that fall under this category such as overactive bladder, pelvic pain, prolapsed uterus, painful periods (dysmenorrhea), interstitial cystitis, coccyx pain, painful intercourse, and many others. Symptoms may limit a man or woman’s ability to perform daily activities, cause a change in exercise habits and create embarrassment. Problems in this area are often not discussed with medical professionals and therefore, go untreated.

Many physical therapists have specialized training that can benefit men and women with issues of the pelvic floor. These therapists utilize every aspect of their physical therapy training to evaluate patients and to provide intervention to overcome these dysfunctions. Treatments may consist of a combination of many techniques. Exercises such as “Kegels,” which are geared for this area, greatly enhance muscle function when performed properly. Relaxation techniques may be utilized to assist with decreasing tone and pain. Manual techniques, such as Myofascial Release and soft tissue massage are often used to relieve tension. Biofeedback is used to increase awareness of proper muscle recruitment or to quiet overactive muscles. Electrical stimulation may be used to recruit and train pelvic floor musculature or to relieve pain. Joint mobilizations are often utilized to restore pelvic alignment and motion. In addition, patient education can assist with prevention of dysfunction.

Physical therapy for the pelvic floor dysfunction is relatively new and not widely known by many medical professionals in the USA. There are only a handful of Physical Therapists who are trained in Pelvic Floor therapy in Northern Nevada. But, Pelvic Floor Dysfunction is common. Just consider the number of commercials from the pharmaceutical industry promoting drugs aimed at treatment of these issues. Numerous surgeries are advocated as an answer for many pelvic floor issues. Many are unsuccessful. Physical Therapy can provide tremendous relief for Healthcare consumers who want to take control of their symptoms and overcome them without the use of longterm drugs or surgeries.

When choosing a physical therapist for treatment of a pelvic floor dysfunction, it is important to inquire of their training, experience and outcomes with this area to ascertain if they are qualified to treat this area. The Section on Women’s Health of the American Physical Therapy Association offers training and mentoring leading to a certificate program called the Certificate of Achievement in Pelvic Physical Therapy (CAPP). Approximately 150 PT’s have received the CAPP to date. To find a Physical Therapist who is trained to work with Pelvic Floor Dysfunction, one can contact the Section on Women’s Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. The web site is http://www.womenshealthapta.org/. The website provides articles and resources for consumers to learn more. One can also log onto www.northtahoept.com for further information and treatment options.
Jane O’Brien, MSPT is a physical therapist at North Tahoe Physical Therapy who provides services for the pelvic floor, orthopedics and pain. She is a candidate for the CAPP expecting to complete her certificate in summer 2008.

-Jane O’Brien, MSPT

Personalized Hands-On Physical Therapy

More than just Physical Therapy

At North Tahoe Physical Therapy, we offer a unique combination of Myofascial Release, Hands-on soft tissue mobilization, skeletal mobilizations, Pilates- based exercises, Education and Self Management.
Our therapists are highly trained, experienced professionals. We provide a strong interaction between you, your doctor and your physical therapist.  North Tahoe Physical Therapy uses a 1-on-1 approach to Physical therapy with exceptional customer service. We treat you as a whole person, not just your injury.

Each client obtains a thorough explanation of their condition. Your physician receives timely reports regarding your progress. We empower you to become active partners in your recovery and health maintenance. Our personalized approach results in your wellness and satisfaction. Click here for client testimonials.

The cornerstone of our approach is Myofascial Release.

Our Treatment Philosophy

At North Tahoe Physical Therapy, our treatment philosophy is based on the pelvis, the base of the spine.  We believe the pelvis is the foundation of the body.  This foundation must be level for the head and neck to sit properly and for the legs to hit the ground evenly.  When a client comes to us with “low back pain”, we begin by assessing the pelvis for symmetry.  If the pelvis is rotated or if the trunk is shortened on one side, the surrounding soft tissues will attempt to stabilize the system.  This may lead to muscle spasms, pain, or tension of the nerves and the discs which sit atop the pelvis. Additionally, the spine may rotate and side bend in response to the un-level base below.  Consequently, the head which sits atop the spine will be un-level.

Our bodies are smart.  If our spine is rotated, we naturally adjust our head to have our eyes level. This may lead to issues of muscle spasms, muscle tension, TMJ/jaw disorders and headaches. So, for a person who comes to NTPT complaining of TMJ, headache or neck pain, our treatment starts at the pelvis.

Like a house if the foundation is not level, the roof will crack and the windows won’t easily slide open or close. Therefore, it only makes sense to balance the pelvis, which is the foundation of the body.

Self empowerment
You may spend 1-3 hours a week with our team of therapists at North Tahoe Physical Therapy. There are 168 hours in a week. What are you doing the other 165 hours? A maintenance program of Home exercises, education about how to avoid aggravating your condition, and awareness of how you can help yourself are important components of your care. North Tahoe Physical therapy, we empower you to be an active participant in your health and wellness.

Get well
• Orthopedics
• Sports Injury Care
• Back and Neck care
• Incontinence/Pelvic Floor Dysfunction
• TMJ/Migraines/Headaches

Stay Well
• Myofascial Release therapy
• Massage
• Personal training
• Medically Supervised gym
• PILATES
• Classes and workshops

Address the Symptoms, look elsewhere for the Cause
At North Tahoe Physical Therapy, we treat the cause of your problems. Our evaluation is a full body assessment. We look for Pelvic imbalances, fascial pulls, and postural abnormalities. We then determine how these deficits may have created your symptoms. For example, neck or jaw problems may arise from an unlevel pelvis. Knee issues may be due to a pelvis imbalance. If we only treated the symptomatic jaw without leveling the pelvis, the issues will return because the problem has not been corrected. By treating the cause, we are able to address and decrease the symptoms.