My kids say my wife and I are hard to shop for. They don’t want to get me “just another piece of sports memorabilia” for our clinic walls, and they don’t want to get my wife “just another book” for her extensive fiction collection. But I think I’m pretty easily satisfied, gift-wise. In fact, here’s a list of physical therapist-approved gifts that I think are both thoughtful and useful – perfect for that hard-to-buy-for person on your list:

• Reusable ice/heat pack – Temperature therapy is crucial in pain management, and a reusable pack that can be thrown in the microwave or freezer (depending on your needs) makes it just that much easier. Exercise caution, however, as you can easily get burns from packs that are either too hot or too cold.
• Therapy bands – If you’ve been in physical therapy before, you’re already familiar with the stretchy, colorful bands used in our rehabilitative programs. They come in a variety of resistance levels and are extremely portable for on-the-go strengthening.
• Exercise ball – Available in a range of sizes, an exercise ball is an excellent tool for building core strength. Bonus: Use it as a substitute for an office chair to improve your posture.
• Stretching by Bob Anderson and Jean Anderson (by Shelter Publications) – Properly stretched muscles are more able to function to their full capacity without risk of injury. If there were a stretching bible, this would be it. I own several copies myself!
• Good-quality athletic shoes – With the exception of maybe yoga and swimming (or unless you’re a barefoot running advocate), nearly every physical pastime requires comfortable, supportive shoes. Whether you’re a golfer, walker, or gym rat, having the appropriate shoes makes it that much easier to live an active life.

It’s better to give than to receive, so instead of giving video games or DVD’s, consider some of these physical therapist-approved gifts and help your loved ones start 2011 on an active note. Have a safe and happy holiday, and keep moving, my friends!

– Alan