Experience Manual Therapy at Polarity Physiotherapy Center

When my father first had a heart attack almost a decade ago, his cardiologist referred him to undergo physical therapy, to help him stand straight and restore some strength in his muscles.

I was the one who accompanied him to the Physical Therapy Dept where he was made to do some exercises to improve his posture and his right side body weakness. After a month or two of regular visits, he said he felt relieved of the pain and felt very much improved.

Shortly after that, I also experienced neck pain and back pain due to stress at work. My doctor likewise advised me to get some PT sessions for about 2 weeks. As far as I can remember, they used an ultrasound machine (not the one for pregnant women of course). It is a small portable machine and ultrasound is applied using the head of an ultrasound probe that is placed in direct contact with your skin via a transmission coupling gel. It did relieve the pain but it took me months to heal.

Then I heard about Polarity Physiotherapy Center last month from some friends, and I was intrigued about their myofascial release therapy  treatment. I quickly made an appointment as I was eager to try it out.

For those who regularly read my blog or my facebook posts, Im sort of obsessed with spa and massage treatments or anything that could relieve my constant back and neck pain.

Polarity Physiotherapy Center was easy enough to find as it is just along Examiner Street and a couple of blocks from Quezon Avenue.

The center exudes a very “homey” vibe since it was really a converted house and for me its definitely a lot better and less intimidating than say going to a clinic or smelling that “hospital scent.” At least you don’t get the feeling that you have some unknown sickness which the doctor is just to eager to surprise you with.

The place is calming and relaxing but not too relaxing like a “Spa” with their aromatherapy and misty interiors which I also like. The place looks professional and serious but not too daunting—Its really more like a small hotel than medical facility.

We were greeted by Ms Anna, the receptionist and I was introduced to my therapist Hazel.  
Hazel is a Physical Therapy graduate from UST. which gave me the feeling that I was really in good hands.

She first took us on a tour of the facility. There was a rehabilitation room complete with all the equipment you need for strengthening exercises like weights, a stationary bike and some seats for stretching and mobility exercises.

There was also a separate area, with complete gym equipment for those who are training or want to join some zumba or yoga workshops. Polarity just opened recently so all the equipment are relatively new and the amenities from the floor to the locker room are very clean and well maintained.

Before being evaluated, I was asked to sign a standard patient information waiver, which is nothing to be alarmed about. Hazel then led me to the individual treatment rooms. The first thing I noticed was that there was no device or gadgets inside just a bed and a small table. This was because they promote Manual Therapy instead of those usually used in hospitals.

Hazel asked me a series of questions to assess my neck and back and a bit of my medical history. She explained to me that the pain coming from my back has to do with sitting up for hours, and wrong posture. The assessment is very important to gauge your pain levels and determine which part of your body needs treatment.

My therapist Ms. Hazel Cuevas

Hazel then started to manipulate my back using the Myofascial Release Therapy technique. The technique focuses on pain believed to arise from myofascial tissues — the tough membranes that wrap, connect and support your muscles. Which she, locates the myofascial areas that feel stiff and fixed instead of elastic and movable under light manual pressure. These areas, though not always near what feels like the source of pain, are thought to restrict muscle and joint movements, which contributes to widespread muscle pain, she told me.

She did the myofascial release for back and neck. The scapular retraction exercises and stretching of neck and shoulders. The treatment lasted for almost an hour and I immediately felt that my muscles were more relaxed.

It was definitely more “relieving” than a spa massage.

Framed Photo snapshots such as these, hang inside the isle of the treatment room, if you like any of them, you can approach the receptionist. As these are for sale.

Polarity is an advanced manual physiotherapy and myosfacial release center located in #47 Examiner St. Quezon City.  It is a premiere Physical Rehabilitation, Functional training and Wellness facility that caters to all clients who need relief from pain, recovery from injury, improvement of physical condition or beginning a new and healthy lifestyle.

If you are:

>Tired of being in pain from a physical condition or injury
>Tired of long lines at the hospital or waiting in other physical rehabilitation facilities
>Looking for a place to start
 conditioning your body without feeling intimidated in gyms and other exercise facilities
>Looking for specialized training programs that are based on your health goals and physical fitness      level
>If you want to experience the new and emerging techniques of manual therapy and new approaches that work to get you better, faster.
>The Polarity Physiotherapy team consists of well- trained, skilled and PRC- licensed Physical Therapists from outstanding Physical Therapy Programs in the country. They have specialized training in the facets of physical rehabilitation through exercise, manual therapy, muscle and fascia manipulation, muscle release techniques, functional exercise and training, and specific conditioning.

The services they offer are:

1. Myofascial Release (MFR) – an effective hands-on therapy which can directly change and improve health of the fascia. The purpose of MFR is to break down scar tissue, relax the muscle and ‘myofascia’ and restore good posture.

– MFR techniques focus on relaxing the deep tissue of the body providing lasting and effective relief to the patient.
– It uses slow and sometimes deep pressure to restore the proper health of the fascia.

2. Physiotherapy – a science-based profession and takes a ‘whole person’ approach to health and well being, which includes the patient’s general lifestyle. At the core is the patient’s involvement in their own care, through education, awareness, empowerment and participation in their treatment.


Polarity Physiotherapy Center is located in #47 Examiner St. Quezon City.
+63977 692-1380
+63943 658-4890
(02) 799-2700

email: info@polaritywellnesscenter.com

Watch "Journeys with Martin Nievera" on May 24

On May 24  2016, a special concert billed, “Journeys with Martin Nievera” will be staged at the Samsung Hall of SM Aura Premier, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City.

The country’s best crooner and all-around good guy—Concert King MARTIN NIEVERA—lends his voice in a one-of-a-kind benefit concert for the EPCALM Adult Leukemia Foundation of the Philippines.

Now on its 11th year, EPCALM is the only non-profit organization in the country focused on extending timely, personalized, practical and family-oriented support for patients journeying through leukemia, as well as their families. It works through networks of committed partners and volunteers to extend spiritual, medical and financial services and resources.

“Journeys…” is all about you and me giving hope to our sick sisters and brothers—as they journey toward wholeness—healthier, happier. However different our individual journeys may be, let Martin’s distinct brand of music get you through life’s challenges, through his songs of inspiration, healing, triumph, and hope.

As Martin, an honorary EPCALM Board Member, said: “I sing; you save.”

EPCALM receives requests for assistance every single day. Concert proceeds will go to the EPCALM Hope Fund, launched on 1 April 2016, to sustain the various EPCALM services and ministries, and raise the much-needed financial resources to make a holistic difference in the lives of adult leukemia patients and their families.

Tickets are now available in all SM Cinemas and SM Supermalls. For inquiries and reservations, please call SM Tickets at Tel. No. 470.2222. For online ticket purchases, visit smtickets.com/events/view/4431.

Political whodunit “Magtanggol” champions the welfare of abused OFWs

Investment banker Jojo Dispo doesn’t consider his initial foray into scripting and producing a movie a gamble. “Magtanggol,” the first offering of Felix and Bert Film Productions, is an undertaking fueled by passion and compassion.

Tom Rodriguez

Directed by Sigfreid Barros Sanchez and conceptualized by Jojo Dispo, “Magtanggol” tackles the issue of abuses committed against Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) by their employers. “I’ve traveled to a lot of places with high concentration of OFWs,” Dispo discloses. “I’ve talked to many ambassadors around the world about them, have had first hand exposure with many OFWs. I’ve heard their stories. I want to help.”

“Magtanggol” dares to ask the question “Sino ang bayani ng mga bagong bayani?”

 It zeroes in on Senator Juan Magtanggol, a member of the powerful Magtanggol political clan, who is one day thrust into the limelight for being a suspect for the spate of killings of international employers of Filipino OFWs victimized by abuse. Tom Rodriguez who plays Senator Juan

Magtanggol considers “Magtanggol,” his first venture in the political thriller genre, an eye-opener. “I didn’t realize the gravity of violence committed against our kababayans who only want to improve the plight of their respective families. Leaving your family behind to work overseas is already painful.”

Tom relishes working on this indie project. “Ibinalot ‘yung pelikula sa isang masayang panoorin na kuwento pero nakatago rin doon ‘yung larawan ng totoong sinasapit minsan ng mga kapatid nating OFWs,” shares the Kapuso leading man. “The production people and the director, grabe! Pinag-iisipan nila lahat ng shots. I’ve learned so much from all the other projects I’ve done in the past. I’m learning so much more just being here. How they compose the shots. How they color and light the scenes. There is a reason behind everything.”

Seasoned actress Dina Bonnevie who plays the second wife of the Magtanggol patriarch (played by Joonee Gamboa) says that the movie is call to action.  “It is very timely in light of the upcoming elections. If you have discontent over the way the government is running the counry, then you have to speak up.”

Playing a very challenging role is emerging young actor Ejay Falcon. “It is an honor for me na makasama sa project na ito.”

“Magtanggol” also stars Yam Concepcion, Kim Domingo, Albie Casino, and Denise Laurel.

Like everyone who experiences hardships, OFWs need all the help and assistance they can get. One way of doing that is by watching “Magtanggol” when it opens on May 18 in theaters nationwide because whatever the movie earns sue will be used to fund projects to promote the welfare of OFWs.
In our own little way, we too can become heroes.

MAGTANGGOL (2 Hours 23 Min. ) Tom Rodriguez, Ejay Falcon, Denise Laurel, Yam Concepcion, Kim Domingo, Albie Casino, Dina Bonnevie, Joonee Gamboa, William Martinez, Ricky Davao, Giselle Sanchez, Epy Quizon, Mavi Lozano

TAGLINE:
Ano ba ang meron sa apelyido ng isang tao at kinakailangan mong pangalagaan at ingatan ito? Ano bang meron sa pangalang ipinamana sa iyo at kailangan mong iwasan na mabahiran ito ng kahit na ano? Minsan tuloy, iniisip ko, ang apelyido ba ay isang regalo o isa bang sumpa ito?"

SYNOPSIS:

For decades, the Magtanggol family have been a name to reckoned with in Philippine politics. Since Spanish period, their name have been very synonymous to the words “revolutionary”, “heroes”, “nationalistic”and “fighter of rights”. They keep this reputation intact althroughout history, leaving it unblemished and free from any controversy. But when the young politician of the family, SENATOR JUANCHO MAGTANGGOL (a popular Senator being groomed for presidency in the coming elections) was thrust into the limelight for being a suspect at the spate of killings of international employers of Filipino OFWs who were victimized by abuse, the family, headed by its patriarch ex-Senator JUAN MAGTANGGOL, SR., is shaken to its core as media tries to scrutinize every inch and detail of the family’s secrets. As time runs out on them and the Magtanggol family reputation on line, they need to act fast or lose everything that their family has long worked for for years. They are up against a topnotch lawyer/congresswoman, ATTY. SUSAN DEL ROSARIO, who heads the inquiry on the issue and who was once the object of affection of both JUANCHO and ANTON when they were younger. Will the lawyer prove the family’s guilt or will love go in the way of seeking justice? In a society where there is no sure protection for our Overseas Filipino Workers, will justice be forever blinded, deafened, and crippled?

 JUANCH MAGTANGGOL
The once happy-go-lucky eldest son of ex-Senator Juan Magtanggol who was thrust into the limelight to follow his father’s footsteps after an accident almost cost the life of his brother who was being groomed to be the next politician. Champion of OFW rights. More likely to solve issues the legal way than in a revolutionary fashion. He is now the complete opposite of the man he used to be in his younger years. A married man who still carried a flame for the one who got away. The most likely-presidential candidate of the opposition in the coming elections. Is thrust into controversy after a spate of killings that involved employers of abused OFWS he is fighting for. Portrays himself as a champion of the masses but is really having a hard time trying to be one.

ANTON MAGTANGGOL
The younger Magtanggol sibling who is wheelchair-bound and has somewhat of a disfigured face after an accident that almost cost him his life. Has a patch on one of his eyes after he lost it in the accident and has a hard time talking and expressing himself. Was once a law student before the accident and a known student activist. Has a penchant for being a wide-reader and has a long collection of books and magazines inside his room. Always goes along to his brother’s travels as his brother feels he is indebted to Anton after the accident.

"Be in control and be Asthmalaya" GSK Commemorates World Asthma Day

I remember a classmate of mine in elementary school who had an asthma attack.  She had seizure episodes and difficulty of breathing. Then her nailbeds turned into blue. This incident happened inside the classroom, and we all panicked. I did not know what triggered the attack for I was young then. She was absent during the week, when she came back she looked sick and helpless. I remember her until now,  I wanted to know if she still lives or has  controlled her asthma ever since. That is why I am afraid of contacting the disease.

I used to work to in a hospital before. When I had allergy attacks, I frequented  Dr. Nanette Tiu's clinic. I still do up to this day. She is an Allergologist and a Pulmonology Pediatrician at Chinese General Hospital. I consider her a friend, I had a note tucked into my wallet, and I still remember it by heart. This is applicable to both asthmatic and have allergy to mites and dust. This works for me during those years, I know it will, for you too.

Use allergy-proof covers on pillows and mattresses, (when you shop, ask the saleslady for this.) Do not allow pets in bedroom or on furniture. Remove carpets and stuffed toys from bedrooms. Avoid areas where people smoke. Avoid harsh cleaning products and chemicals. Reduce stress. Pay attention to air quality. Exercise indoors. Take control of your seasonal allergies. Make sure people around you know you have asthma.

According to the Global Asthma Report, an estimated 300 million people worldwide are affected by asthma.¹ In the Philippines, approximately 11 Million or 1 out 10 Filipinos are suffering from this debilitating disease.² This incurable disease burdens patients with a sense of imprisonment and constant restraint preventing them to live their lives to the fullest.

ALL ABOUT ASTHMA
“Asthma is a recurring inflammatory disorder in the airways of breathing, which undergoes variable expiratory flow and reversible bronchoconstrictions. In people with asthma, the airways are chronically inflamed. Certain triggers can make the inflammation worse and cause a narrowing of the airways”, shares Dr. Melvin Pasay, a pulmonologist and Medical Affairs Manager of GSK.

Common symptoms include constant wheezing, breathlessness, chest tightness, and coughing often late at night or early in the morning. Asthma can be triggered by dust, changes in weather (often cold), animals (pet hair in particular), exercise, tobacco smoke and stress.

Dr. Gio Barangan GSK Medical Director

The cause of asthma is unknown. However as shared by Philippine Society of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology Inc. (PSAAI) President, Dr. Carmela Kasala, several predisposing factors to consider include genetic history (personal history or first degree relative) with asthma, allergic rhinitis, eczema; weight and smoking history. “While there is also no known cure for asthma, this serious chronic disease can be controlled and effectively treated. By establishing a strong partnership between a patient and his doctor, results showed that asthma can be controlled” shares Dr. Kasala.

Dr Melvin Pasay GSK Medical Affairs Manager

Dr Carmela Kasala Pres of Phil Society of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology Inc (PSAAI)

BURDEN OF HAVING ASTHMA
In the Asia Pacific, including the Philippines, a study showed that activity limitation caused by asthma has been quite prevalent. A mean of 44.7% of respondents reported that normal physical activity was compromised, and 37.9% believed that their choice of job or career was limited. A total of 52.7% of respondents said that sports and recreation were affected, and 37.6% believed their lifestyle was restricted while almost 50% reported sleep disturbances.³

Bing Salandanan GSK Group Product Manager

“A lot of asthma patients have resigned and became ‘prisoners’ to their condition. Many seem to have created imaginary cages and locking themselves up with lifestyle restrictions. They are assuming that frequent symptoms, exacerbations and lifestyle limitations are inevitable
consequences of having asthma – unaware that their condition can be controlled,” observes Dr. Pasay.


What is alarming is that 98 percent of Filipino asthma patients remain uncontrolled or only partly controlled.⁴

“This means that asthma patients will only use medication when they have attacks believing that as long as there are no attacks they will be okay. As such, they believe that it is enough that they have available medicines to be taken on an as-needed basis,” shares Dr. Sylvia Yang, World Asthma Day committee chair of Philippine College of Chest Physicians (PCCP).

Regular visits and consultations with doctors likewise became less as children grew up and had lesser asthma attacks. Most are relying on peers, family and even online resources to provide limited information and possibly, sub-optimal treatment for their condition. This makes patients underestimate their condition leading to poor asthma control.

Cost of treatment is also a main consideration for compliance, but the truth is uncontrolled asthma can lead to higher odds of hospitalization and emergency room visits and become more expensive due to direct medical cost like hospitalization or medications and indirect cost like time lost from work, overall productivity or even premature death.

WORLD ASTHMA DAY
In celebration of World Asthma Day, an annual event organized by the “Global Initiative for Asthma” (GINA) to improve asthma awareness and care around the world, GSK Philippines unveils “ASTHMAlaya Ka Ba Talaga? campaign, a disease awareness initiative that also seeks to encourage asthma patients, to be more proactive in consulting their doctors on how they can achieve asthma control.asthmalaya (1)

So how do you know if you need asthma control? It’s easy, if you are an asthma patient who experiences daytime asthma symptoms (coughing or wheezing) more than twice a week, wakes up at night due to asthma, uses an asthma reliever more than twice a week or have any activity limitations due to asthma, you may have uncontrolled asthma and need to immediately consult your doctor.

The celebration was participated by advocates from Philippine College of Chest Physicians (PCCP) and the Philippine Society of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology Inc. (PSAAI) who are one with the advocacy of furthering awareness and urgency among patients to consult their doctors for proper asthma control.
As Dr. Pasay profoundly put it, “Our message is clear; “You don’t have to serve a life sentence of limitations because of Asthma, be in control and be ASTHMALAYA!”

For more updates, visit https://www.facebook.com/winagainstasthma/, or for more in-depth information, you can check out GSK’s website. https://health.gsk.ph

References:
1) The Global Asthma Report 2014. Auckland, New Zealand: Global Asthma Network, 2014.
2) Varona, LL., et. al. Prevalence of Asthma Among Filipino Adults Based on the Nutrition and Health Survey (NNHeS). PJIM Vol 52 Num 4, Oct-Dec 2014
3) Lai, E. A. (2003). Asthma Control in the Asia Pacific Region: The Asthma Insights and Reality in Asia-Pacific Study. J Allergy Clin Immunol , 265.
4) Wong, GWK, et. al. Pediatric asthma control in Asia: Phase 2 of the Asthma Insights and Reality in Asia-Pacific (AIRIAP 2) survey. Allergy 68 (2013) 524-530

Banana Peel brings ‘Summer in the City: Island Getaway’

For most people, summer is the highlight of the year. It’s the perfect time to break from the daily hustle and bustle of life, and experience new adventures.Luckily, for those who haven’t found the time for their summer getaway, Banana Peel brings the island to the metro on Saturday, May 7, 2016, from 10am to 10pm at the Trinoma Activity Center.

‘Summer in the City: Island Getaway’ is Banana Peel’s summer treat for its loyal followers. “We understand how busy each of us can get these days. We can easily get so caught up in the never-ending demands of work and school, and we end up missing out on that much deserved break. This is why we are bringing the summer island adventure experience to our customers,” enthused Paul Ng, CEO of The Neat, Inc.’s Banana Peel flip flops. “Customers can count on an entire day of island experience,” added Ng. 

The day-long event is packed with activities enjoyed in the islands. The ‘Chill Coast’ area offers tropical pampering experiences like the isle’s nail polish, hair-braiding, face painting, and massage.The ‘Wild Trek’ brings the island’s adventure thrill, where guests get to enjoy a 7-meter high wall-climbing inflatable, a giant Eagle’s Nest Kerplunk, Temple Run arcade game, and other action-packed activities. At the ‘Snack Valley’, guests can eat and fuel up with the island treats prepared by sponsors, as they enjoy one activity after another.

Banana Peel customers can get one event pass to the Summer in the City: Island Getaway by presenting a Php300 single-receipt purchase of Banana Peel products during the event.  This pass will serve as a ticket for five to an island getaway on Saturday, May 7, 2016, at the Trinoma Activity Center.
“The first Summer in the City in 2015 yielded such a positive response from our customers. This event is a way for us to celebrate the importance of spending time with family and friends,” said Ng. “We are looking forward to another exciting and fun-filled day with Summer in the City: Island getaway.” 

Banana Peel Summer in the City: Island getaway is made even more exciting through the partnerships with: Beach Hut, Fruitas, De Original Jamaican Patties,MoguMogu, McDonalds, Wilkins, Kettle Corn, Facial Plus, Lay Bare, Nail It, Leslie’sCheezy, Clover and Nacho, Owl Coffee, Bissin, PAL Mabuhay Miles, Cose, Unilever, and Contigo.

More information on Banana Peel is available at www.bananapeel.net. Follow Banana Peel on Facebook at Bananapeelflipflops, on Instagram at Bananapeelofcl.

“I joined the Thank A Mom Movement at Century City Mall”

“Motherhood is a choice you make everyday, to put someone else's happiness and well-being ahead of your own, to teach the hard lessons, to do the right thing even when you're not sure what the right thing is...and to forgive yourself, over and over again, for doing everything wrong.” 

― Donna Ball, At Home on Ladybug Farm

Growing up, I was never a "mama's girl" nor was I close to my tatay, maybe it was the reason I didn't turn to them during my angst-ridden teen years.  

I kept up my frustration and anger all to myself preferring to be "alone" and solving problems myself. And if I got into some trouble that would irk them both, I got punishment from those, it was either getting "grounded" on weekends or "mapapalo". 

I often got hurt hit by a flying tsinelas, slapped by a belt, a cloth hanger, cane, and if i really did something terrible--masasakit na salita--which was far more painful.

They were never my friends during my growing up years, but I think that actually helped me become stronger. Like most teens at that time, Siguro sensitive lang yata talaga ako noon.  I would always be grateful because they are my parents and that I should love them for that. 

Until, a personal problem came up, 6 years ago.   I remember  texting my mother and telling her my side of story. I never received any negative comments from her, except pure love and support. I cried and called her up just to tell her na "Thank you for listening nay. Wala akong kaibigan, pasensya na if madrama ako".  

Naiiyak tuloy ako habang sinusulat ko to. Hindi kami naging close ng nanay ko nung bata pa ako, because she was busy defending me from my father's wrath. I admit matigas talaga ulo ko before. I would always get what I wanted which led me into trouble. 

Di ko na appreciate yung time na naging close sana kmi ng nanay ko nung bata pa ako. Ngayon lang talaga.  Sya ang naging takbuhan ko kapag wala ako pera, kapag naolats ako sa lovelife, kapag may mga decision akong palpak. Nanay ko lang andyan, di nagsasawa umintindi at magmahal sa ken. Kahit ilang beses ako magkamali, lagi nyang sinasabi, habang may buhay may pag asa. Na kapag nadapa, bangon ule. 

I started to appreciate my nanay during my problematic years,and  up to this day, nagsisisi ako bakit di kami ganun naging ka close nung bata pa ako. Sana naging maganda ngayon ang buhay ko. Pero sabi nga niya, habang buhay may pagasa.  I can't thank her enough for her support and empathy. 

My mother is the strongest person Ive  met. She never took "No" for an answer, she always found a way to make both ends meet. She cooks the best "mechado" and "adobong pusit" which my siblings and kids love. She's the one who thought me  what I have to eat. She always told me how beautiful I am and still look young for my age, which of course I believe..hahaha.  

She told me, she was thankful for bringing me up "tough and always ready for the storm" whatever that is. I guess, I got my strength of character from her. Sayang lang di ko namana yung pagiging matiisin nya. 

Hindi ko nga alam kung anu ibbgay ko sa kanya this mother's day. Baka siguro fitflops or Havaianas kase favorite nya yun eh. Pero sabi nya basta magkasama lang daw kami ay okay na. Nanay ko talaga madrama hahaha yun ang namana ko sa kanya. 

Thank you Nay, I am praying for your good health long life and wisdom. 

Running out of ways to say Thanks? Century City Mall will help you with that Thank-You’s to your mom with a bit of surprise along the way. Here’s how.

Mechanics:

1.Like the Century City Mall Facebook Page.

2.Share the THANK-A-MOM-MOVEMENT POSTER

3.Write a dedication to your mom at https://www.facebook.com/CenturyCityMall/app/269862423359705/ from May2-8, 2016. Fill out the sign-up form accurately and completely.cmall

4.Wait for a voucher that will be sent to your email. Bring a copy of the voucher at the THANK-A-MOM booth located at the ground floor of the mall to pick up your prize. Prizes may only be claimed from May 2-8,2016

5.Visit www.centurycitymall.com.ph for complete terms and conditions.

Win up to 10,000 worth of Gift Certificates, Movie passes Discount Coupons and more…Make Yo’ Momma Proud This Mother Day and Go, Surprise her! #ThankAMomMovement @CenturyCityMall