The following instructions will ensure that you do not aggravate your
condition between treatments and are designed to speed your recovery. The
success of your treatment program depends as much upon you and your
participation as it does upon the therapist's skills. Doing your part
ensures the quickest recovery. Your program was designed to optimize your
recovery in the quickest possible time and it important that you keep your
scheduled appointments. If you have any questions, ask your therapist.
1. Do not sit down more than you have to, and if you do, get up frequently and move about.
2. If given a back pillow, use it every time in the car, at work, and at home that you have to sit.
3. Maintain a slight hollow in your low back at all times.
4. Avoid lifting anything over 15 pounds until instructed otherwise.
5. When watching T.V. lie on the floor on your stomach or on the sofa stretched out. Change position frequently.
6. When in bed, lie in any position that is comfortable for your back. Two pillows under your knees if you are lying on your back works well.
7. Avoid unnecessary driving in the car.
8. Walk little and often. If walking increases your pain, refrain from doing so and talk to your therapist.
9. Do not touch your toes. This is a banned exercise.
10. Do the stretch exercises prescribed by your therapist little and often.
11. Do not cough or sneeze in a sitting or bent over position. Brace your back with your hands.
12. Do nothing that increases back pain or induces any pain, numbness, or tingling in either leg.
13. Conscientiously do the stretch exercises prescribed by your therapist.
The Classical Free-Reed, Inc. staff gratefully acknowledges
volunteer Terry Knight who assisted in the production of this
article.
Born in New Zealand in 1942 of Italian parents, he grew up in a musical
family in which his grandfather played accordion. Mr. Bonica played
drums, percussion, flugelhorn, bugle and string bass before turning to the
accordion at age 15. He taught himself by ear and learned the Chopin
"Minute Waltz" by listening to a recording by Charles Magnante.
After some time, he realized the limitations of playing only by ear, so he
taught himself how to read music so he could enter competitions. He won
the New Zealand Championship several years in the duet, trio and quartet
divisions. He won second place at the New Zealand Open in 1978 in the solo
division.
Mr. Bonica emigrated to the United States in 1980 to teach spinal
specialists and continue his practice of spinal therapy. He has recorded
four CDs of Italian and European folk music utilizing a MIDI orchestra
ensemble. Other activities include writing and publishing (he was editor
and publisher for Accordion World magazine from 1989 until 1994),
sailing and photography.
Part Seven: The
Great Accordion Myth!
Is Lighter Really
Better?
by John Bonica, L.P.T.,
N.Z.R.P.
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