Issue link: https://blog.providence.org/i/1518206
Middle-of-the-night insomniacs—those who wake too early and spend hours frustratingly unable to sleep—are discovering cell phone apps that are remarkably effective at helping them relax and fall asleep within minutes. From guided mediations and instrumental music to stories told in soothing voices, many are finding these apps can quell a racing or anxious mind and allow them to quickly return to sleep. "Sleep is individualized, so while music might be calming to one person, it can have the opposite effect on someone else," explains Jason Tse, OTD, OTR/L, whose training and practice as an occupational therapist within Providence St. Jude's neuro and cancer rehabilitation programs frequently involves helping patients overcome sleep issues. "Put your phone on 'bedtime mode' and 'do not disturb,' and see what helps you." Hundreds of apps exist, including "Calm," which was recently named best sleep app by the Sleep Foundation. The low-cost app offers numerous options, from mindfulness and stretching to breathing exercises and an extensive library of relaxing stories. It also offers music using the unique frequencies of binaural beats and theta waves, which have a calming effect on the brain. Bedtime stories that work FA L L I N G S L E E P M A D E E A S Y Pelvic health therapy: It belongs on the to-do list of every new mom Pregnancy and birth take a toll on a woman's body, and sometimes along with a new bundle of joy come one or more pelvic floor issues. Some try to live with their symptoms, not seeking treatment until years after they 've given birth, when the seemingly small problems—a "little" pain or leaking—have grown into larger, more serious issues. Fortunately, the misconception that everything works differently after kids and it's OK to spend years buying incontinence products is changing. "Today, new moms have done their research, know their symptoms are treatable and aren't waiting for a doctor to suggest pelvic floor therapy: They 're asking for a referral," says Denise Diener, PT, DPT, who specializes in pelvic health at the Providence St. Jude Centers for Rehabilitation. For pregnant women, therapy focuses on resolving low-back or pelvic pain and preparing the pelvic muscles for a successful delivery. After birth, the priority is returning strength and function to a weakened or injured pelvic floor, helping women more quickly and fully heal. "Almost every mom can benefit," explains Denise, "and many will be surprised by just how much it will contribute to their well-being." Most insurance plans require a physician referral. Call 714-578-8720 ext. 4410 to make an appointment.