Author: Brittany Hutchings
Physical Therapy vs Rest: When Movement Is Better
Posted by: Reform Physical Therapy in Patient Education on December 26, 2025
When pain or injury shows up, many people assume rest is the best solution. Taking it easy can feel like the safest option, especially when movement hurts. While rest does play an important role in healing, too much rest can actually slow recovery. Understanding the difference between physical therapy vs rest can help you make… Read More
Signs You May Benefit from Physical Therapy
Posted by: Reform Physical Therapy in Patient Education on December 24, 2025
Many people live with pain or movement issues longer than they should because they are unsure if they would benefit from physical therapy. Discomfort can slowly become part of daily life, making it hard to recognize when something is no longer normal. Over time, this can affect how you move, work, exercise, and rest. Over… Read More
What Happens During Your First Physical Therapy Visit?
Posted by: Reform Physical Therapy in Patient Education on December 22, 2025
Starting your first physical therapy visit can feel overwhelming if you are not sure what to expect. Many patients ask the same question before their appointment: What happens during a physical therapy evaluation? A physical therapy evaluation is the first step in understanding your pain, movement, and goals. It allows your physical therapist to create… Read More
Do I Need a Referral for Physical Therapy in Maine?
Posted by: Reform Physical Therapy in Patient Education on December 20, 2025
Many people hesitate to start physical therapy because they are unsure if they need a referral from a doctor. One of the most common questions we hear is, “Do I need a referral for physical therapy in Maine?” The answer is often simpler than expected. In Maine, many patients can begin physical therapy without seeing… Read More
Winter Joint Pain: Why It Gets Worse and How Physical Therapy Helps
Posted by: Reform Physical Therapy in Winter Wellness on December 18, 2025
Many people notice winter joint pain becomes worse during the colder months. Cold temperatures, slippery conditions, and spending more time indoors can all increase stiffness and discomfort in the joints. Pain in the knees, hips, shoulders, and back is especially common in winter. Winter joint pain can make everyday activities feel harder than usual. Simple… Read More
How to Prevent Slips and Falls on Ice This Winter
Posted by: Reform Physical Therapy in Balance and falls, Injury Prevention on December 15, 2025
Winter in Maine often means snow, ice, and slippery surfaces. Even short walks outside can increase the risk of falling. Slips and falls on ice are one of the most common causes of winter injuries, especially for adults and older individuals. The good news is that many winter falls can be prevented. With simple changes… Read More
The Kennebunk Guide to Feeling Better: Why More Locals Are Choosing Reform Physical Therapy
Posted by: Reform Physical Therapy in Kennebunk Physical Therapy, Physical Therapy on December 8, 2025
Living with pain can make even simple days feel harder. When your back is stiff getting out of bed, your knee aches on the stairs, or your shoulder stops you from lifting or reaching, normal routines suddenly take more effort. For many people in Kennebunk, finding effective physical therapy in Kennebunk can be the first… Read More
Why Your Back Hurts More After Shoveling (And How to Prevent It Next Time)
Posted by: Reform Physical Therapy in Back Pain, Seasonal Tips, Winter Wellness on December 6, 2025
Winter back pain is one of the most common issues people deal with during Maine’s snow season. Many people feel fine when they start shoveling, but soreness, stiffness, and sharp pain often hit later that day or even the next morning. This happens for reasons that go far beyond “overdoing it.” The cold affects your… Read More
The Hidden Way Cold Weather Impacts Joint Fluid — And How to Protect Your Knees This Winter
Posted by: Reform Physical Therapy in Joint Health, Knee Pain, Seasonal Tips, Winter Wellness on December 4, 2025
Winter knee pain is extremely common in Maine, especially once temperatures start to drop. Many people notice more stiffness, soreness, or swelling throughout the season, but most don’t understand the real reason behind it. Much of this discomfort comes from the way cold weather changes the fluid inside your joints. This post breaks down the… Read More
How Stress Affects Pain Levels During the Holidays
Posted by: Reform Physical Therapy in Healthy Movement, Holiday Wellness, Pain Management, Reform PT Education on December 2, 2025
The holiday season is meant to feel joyful, but it often brings extra pressure that can impact both your body and your mood. Many people don’t realize that stress affects pain holidays by increasing muscle tension, changing how your nervous system reacts, and making everyday aches feel more intense. As schedules fill up and routines… Read More