It's not surprising that Canadians are doing more readying since life in lock-down began. According to BookNet Canada, readership has increased by five percent compared to 2019. And, an even higher percentage of people now consider reading a pastime.
BookNet Canada is an organization that does market research and develops technology and analysis for the book industry. They conducted a survey last October and found that 76 percent of readers said they mostly read "to enjoy or relax" — a 17% increase compared to 2019.
This is all good news on the health front. Science has shown that reading has some amazing health benefits, including helping with depression, relieving stress, and reducing the chances of developing Alzheimer's later in life. For example, in one study, participants read thirty pages of a book and then had an MRI of their brains the next morning. Results showed there was heightened connectivity in the left temporal cortex; the area of the brain that's associated with language and intelligence. Although participants weren't actively reading while in the MRI machine, their brains showed heightened connectivity as if they were. This illustrates how the brain is similar to a muscle which can be strengthened through regular exercise (so if you aren't already in the habit of reading regularly, perhaps science might sway you!)
With the world changing around us so rapidly, it's more important than ever that we make continuous learning a part of our lifestyle. On that note, here are our top picks of Physio blogs to help keep you sharp and keep you growing:
1. Pain Science – painscience.com
Besides the breadth of excellent content on Pain Science, one of the best things about this site is that it's sortable and searchable. This makes it much easier to find what you're after. This site offers insights into incorporating Acupuncture, Massage, and Chiropractic Medicine into the rehabilitation process.
(Blog creator: Paul Ingraham, a Canadian science writer who served as the assistant editor of Science-Based Medicine from 2009-2016)
2. Pediatrics — pinkoatmeal.com
On this site, you'll find a wide variety of articles and downloadable activites (both paid and free) designed to get kids moving. The site is aimed at providing teachers, parents, and physical therapists with lots of information and resources for motor development and physical activity that can be put to use.
(Blog creator: Chanda Jothen, PT, DPT)
3. Orthopaedic Treatment — themanualtherapist.com
This award-winning blog covers a wide variety of subjects, from understanding clinical prediction rules for lumbar manipulation to the importance of providing reassurance to patients. It also offers weekly podcasts, research reviews, videos, and their 'Untold Physio Stories' segment is a collection of real-life cases that are both interesting and informative if you prefer an audio format.
(Blog creator: Dr. Erson Religioso III, DPT, MS, MTC, CertMDT, CFC, CSCS, FMS, FMT, FAAOMPT)
4. Pain Science — mikereinold.com
Mike Reinold shares his extensive experience, advice, and research with fellow PTs on his personal blog. The former head athletic trainer and physiotherapist for The Boston Red Sox has also worked with prestigious organizations like The American Medicine Institute, and Massachusetts General Hospital. To add to his list of accomplishments the sire has won many awards. His posts focus on both the business side of managing a practice, while others discuss evidence-based research and their clinical implications.
5. Practice Operations — hubspot.com
It's not quite a Physio blog, but we decided to add it to the list because we think the content geared towards professional development and the business elements of running a practice is downright useful. Hubspot has changed the way companies from a variety of industries sell and market their services. Check out articles like "How to Create an Effective Customer Journey Map" and "The Ultimate Guide to Training for Customer Service and Support".
There is certainly no shortage of blogs out there on the information superhighway. We've worked to bring together a selection of good blogs that cover topics ranging from treatment best practices to clinic operations. What are some of your favourite blogs? Let us know!
Happy Reading!
