Occupational Therapy Month!
April is Occupational Therapy Month!
What is Occupational Therapy? An Occupational Therapist (OT) is a holistic therapist who uses evidence-based practice to consider patients’ goals regarding independence in work, recreation, activities of daily living, and homemaking. OTs may work in schools, hospitals, outpatient clinics, psychiatric hospitals, home care, and other settings.
An Occupational Therapist working in an orthopedic setting- whether inpatient or outpatient- will see patients with shoulder, elbow, wrist, or hand conditions, as well as post-surgical diagnoses. Physical Therapists typically treat patients with back, neck, hip, knee, or foot conditions and surgeries. There is overlap, as both PTs and OTs may address shoulder conditions, such as rotator cuff repairs.
Currently, a master's degree is required to be a licensed Occupational Therapist. As of 2027, a doctorate will be required as the entry-level Occupational Therapy degree, although the American Occupational Therapy Association maintains that a master's or doctoral degree will be considered entry-level for the foreseeable future. Occupational Therapists have extensive education in anatomy, biology, kinesiology, child development, psychology, neurology, and sociology. Continuing education is required in the area of practice for continued licensure and certification.
Occupational Therapy is a unique profession because it focuses not only on the physical recovery of patients’ conditions but also considers emotional and psychological wellness as essential parts of the recovery process. The goal of orthopedic-based Occupational Therapy is always to promote maximal independence and productivity through treatments, including but not limited to wound care, exercise, manual therapy, pain modalities, functional activities, and encouragement. Patients are encouraged to share their therapy goals and are always integral participants in their recovery.
Occupational Therapy was founded in 1917 as a means of helping wounded soldiers returning from World War I to recover from their injuries and return to productive work and independent functioning at home. Occupational therapists addressed the physical and psychological effects of war in the treatment of veterans. Occupational therapists continue to be employed at Veterans Administration Hospitals and on military bases in the United States and abroad.
At the Mattapoisett Wellness Center, the Occupational Therapist is also a Certified Hand Therapist, board certified in the evaluation, treatment, and custom fabrication of splints for shoulder, elbow, wrist, and hand conditions, injuries, and surgeries. She is also a certified yoga instructor and Reiki Master. With any injury, a patient experiences some degree of loss of function in recreational, work, and home activities. With the loss of previous function, a patient may experience stress, depression, anxiety, isolation, and/ or decreased self-esteem. The Occupational Therapist looks at each injury or condition holistically. OT considers the need for a patient to be fully supported and encouraged to return to their previous level of independence and emotional well-being in all aspects of their lives. In this private practice setting, clients are seen one-on-one for one hour or more in a private office, which is an optimal setting for clients who need to process through all aspects of recovery. The Occupational Therapist uses all of her skills and experience to facilitate optimal recovery and return to all activities.
There is much to celebrate in the Occupational Therapy profession. After 38 years in the field, I would choose this profession all over again. It is always an honor when a patient selects Occupational Therapy to assist in their recovery.
To schedule an appointment for Occupational Therapy at the Mattapoisett Wellness Center, Deb Fraine MS, OTR/L,CHT, can be contacted at 508-951-0908 or by email at info@debfraineot.com. Further information is available on her website www.debfraineot.com.
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Understanding Vaginal Dryness and Painful Sex During Menopause: How Physical Therapy Can Help
As women transition through menopause, many experience a variety of changes in their bodies. One of the most common and often talked-about symptoms is vaginal dryness. The hormonal shifts that occur during this stage of life can lead to a reduction in estrogen, which affects the lubrication and elasticity of the vaginal tissues. While vaginal dryness is a common concern, it is important to understand that not all symptoms of painful intercourse during menopause are due to this factor.
In fact, a significant number of women suffering from discomfort during sex in menopause are often misdiagnosed as having vaginal dryness, when the underlying issue might be something entirely different — tight pelvic floor muscles. Tightness in the pelvic floor can cause a range of symptoms, including a burning or stinging sensation during vaginal penetration. While the discomfort might feel like dryness, it is actually the result of muscle tension, not a lack of lubrication.
So, how can we tell the difference between vaginal dryness and tight pelvic floor muscles? The key is a thorough evaluation of the pelvic region. A physical therapist specializing in pelvic health can perform an internal pelvic exam to determine whether the root cause of your symptoms is related to muscle tension or dryness. This type of evaluation helps identify areas of tightness or dysfunction in the pelvic muscles that may be contributing to discomfort during intercourse.
Once the issue is properly diagnosed, the physical therapist will provide a personalized exercise plan designed to release muscle tension, improve flexibility, and restore proper pelvic function. Techniques may include specific stretching, breathwork, relaxation techniques, and manual therapy to ease tightness and improve blood flow to the area. Over time, these exercises can alleviate pain and discomfort during sex, allowing you to enjoy a more comfortable and fulfilling intimate life.
Taking the Next Step
If you are experiencing vaginal dryness or pain during sex, it’s essential to understand the true cause of your discomfort. Our pelvic floor physical therapist, Dr. Lynne DiPirro, can help you identify whether muscle tightness is the issue, and provide the tools and techniques needed to relieve your symptoms. Don’t suffer in silence—take control of your pelvic health today.
Click the link to book a consult call and start your journey toward pain-free intimacy: https://calendly.com/lynnedipirro/consult-call
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Celebrate Gratitude & Love with a Couple Massage for all that she does for us!
Includes flowers, chocolate, sparkling cider, and aromatherapy.
It's a wonderful way to share quality time with the special mom in your life. Experience a signature massage for two, side by side, in a perfectly tailored room.
Our fully qualified and experienced therapists will craft the ideal relaxing atmosphere for you and your partner.
They will massage away any worries or tension, leaving you feeling rejuvenated and reconnected.
Not limited to romantic couples. Bring your daughter, sister, grandmother or favorite aunt.
Led by Massage Therapists, Jessica C. Dagnello and Kalya DelBonis
Make an Appointment:
https://mattapoisett-wellness-center.square.site/
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Register for this event by going onto THE STUDIO schedule.
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Reiki Circle at The Studio – First Thursday of Every Month!
Ever feel like you just need a reset? Reiki is a gentle, healing energy practice that helps melt away stress, restore balance, and promote overall well-being. Think of it like a river—flowing, clearing, and filling you up with peaceful, radiant energy.
Who is this for?
Reiki practitioners
Newly certified healers
The simply curious (YES, YOU!)
Come as you are, experience the magic, and leave feeling lighter.
All donations go to Boston Children’s Hospital & the Every Child Fund.
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Reiki I Training
with Jenn Risio
About this training:
April 25th 6-8:30p
April 27th 11-2:30p
Over the course of these 2 days you will learn
– The origin and history of Reiki
– Receive a Reiki I Attunement
– Practice the healing art of Reiki
Self-Reiki (first evening) and One on One hand placements (Saturday)
– Learn how to work on others /Partnering for chair and table Reiki)
Reiki taps into the essence of the ‘Universal Life Force’. It facilitates personal healing, deepening your wellness journey, elevating awareness, and guides you to higher consciousness. Whether you’re seeking personal rejuvenation or the skills to assist others, Reiki presents a transformative journey.
WHY LEARN REIKI?
PERSONAL HEALING: Address physical, emotional, and spiritual imbalances.
STRESS REDUCTION: Find tranquility amidst life’s chaos.
EMPOWERMENT: Harness the universal energy for healing and transformation.
HOLISTIC APPROACH: Engage with a practice that integrates body, mind, and spirit.
ENHANCED INTUITION: Deepen your connection to inner wisdom and guidance.
POSITIVE ENERGY: Raise your vibrational frequency and attract positive experiences.
CONNECTION: Feel a deeper bond with the universe and those around you.
Each participant will receive a Reiki I handbook for reference and to take home, as well as a certificate upon completion. No prior experience necessary. EVERYONE IS WELCOME!
The training is guided by Reiki Master Teacher Jennifer Risio.
Having been through many amazing trainings as a Reiki Master Teacher, it is a wonderful journey to discovering self and our life force energy that lies within! We have the power to heal ourselves and assist others!
What you will need:
Wear comfortable clothing.
Bring a journal to write in throughout your journey!
Optional:
-If you have a favorite blanket bring it along.
YTT Trainees Discounted Price: $199
Training: $220
About the Teacher:
Jenn Risio
Jenn has been cultivating her yoga practice for over 25 years, which began in a Cleveland, Ohio, gym in 1997, where she instantly fell in love! Life’s journey and ebbs and flows brought her to a much-needed yearlong immersion of yoga and mindfulness on a path to truth, self-love, forgiveness, compassion, strength, and peace.
She completed her YTT in 2009 at Grace School of Yoga in Jamestown, RI, with her teacher/mentor Judy Mclaine studying the teachings of Sri Dharma Mittra. Her roots as a teacher began in Newport, RI, teaching Power Vinyasa, Restorative, and Vinyasa Flow. Her Vinyasa flow style is an eclectic fusion of so many teachers she has studied with over the years, to honor some: Sri Dharma Mittra, Shiva Rae, Rodney Yee, Colleen Saidman, Elena Brower, Sean Corne, Wade Morrisette, MC YOGI, Kathryn Budig, Janet Stone, Jason Crandall and many more.
Jenn continues to be captivated by the inner peace and love she experiences as a teacher and in her own personal practice. Teaching is her lifelong passion! Her classes are creative and fun. She guides students to find grace and stillness, strength and agility while igniting breath and movement as one. She believes yoga should encircle freedom, grace, and laughter on and off the mat. Jennifer’s classes encompass a powerful flow, emphasizing strength and lightness, allowing the mind to relax and the heart to shine!
In addition, Jenn is the owner of The Studio in Mattapoisett, MA. She is a Reiki Master Teacher (RMT) whose energy healing is sprinkled into ALL her classes! She studied under the tutelage of Reiki Master Teacher Reinette Fournier of Tenth Gate Yoga in Portsmouth, RI, completing her Reiki Master teacher certification in 2015. She now leads Reiki Teacher Training(s) at The Studio in Mattapoisett. Jenn is also a Certified Pilates Instructor (CPI).
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Soul and Spirit
Meditation and Spirit Messages
Join Jackie Duffey, Psychic Medium and owner of The Holistic Swan, a Spiritual wellness center on Cape Cod, for an enlightening evening of meditation and psychic mediumship. Jackie will gently guide everyone through a relaxing meditation. Once in this safe and peaceful space, you will be gently led on a journey through your meditative mind to connect inwards with your own Spirit and the light and power of your soul. When we can recognize and intuitively connect with the Divine energy of our spiritual and soul self, we can access and embody all the natural intuitive guidance we are born with into our daily lives and move along our life path with more flow. Meditation can assist in opening up the pathways to intuition and awareness and help raise up our own energetic vibration, for our mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual well-being.
A demonstration of Psychic Mediumship will follow where Jackie will as guided, connect with the Divine energy that lovingly surrounds us all and those loved ones on the Spirit side of life to bring forth evidential and uplifting message of love and inspiration. If you wish, feel free to bring a personal item or photo of a person or animal you miss who is now in Spirit. Please note not everyone will receive a reading. self in your day-to-day life.