expert type icon EXPERT

Cristina R. Garcia

Occupational Medicine

<p>Cristina R. Garcia practices occupational therapy in Oxnard, CA. She works with older adults in a senior living community to improve quality of life through activities of daily living, group exercise classes, and healthy aging lectures. Cristina takes a holistic approach by examining how the person, environment, and activity are interconnected in promoting or hindering health and wellness.&nbsp;</p>
6 years Experience
Cristina R. Garcia
  • Oxnard, CA
  • USC
  • Accepting new patients

When can I walk normally after hip replacement?

Hi there, this is dependent on a number of factors. I'd highly recommend working with physical therapy if you haven't already. They will also be able to give you a better estimate READ MORE
Hi there, this is dependent on a number of factors. I'd highly recommend working with physical therapy if you haven't already. They will also be able to give you a better estimate following your evaluation.

What is the treatment for an ankle sprain?

Hi, sorry about the ankle. I'd start with RICE: Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevate. This should hopefully ease your symptoms; if it doesn't start to improve after a few days I'd see READ MORE
Hi, sorry about the ankle. I'd start with RICE: Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevate. This should hopefully ease your symptoms; if it doesn't start to improve after a few days I'd see a doctor. Hope this helps!

How long does it take to recover from a leg injury?

Hi there, this will depend on a number of factors. Can you tell me a little more about yourself and your condition? Thanks!

What helps with a swollen ankle?

Hi, sorry about the ankle. I'd start with RICE: Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevate. This should hopefully ease your symptoms; if it doesn't start to improve after a few days I'd see READ MORE
Hi, sorry about the ankle. I'd start with RICE: Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevate. This should hopefully ease your symptoms; if it doesn't start to improve after a few days I'd see a doctor. Hope this helps!

Can I drink alcohol with heart palpitations?

I'd recommend taking a break from drinking alcohol and consulting with your medical provider.

Can you help me with my wrist pain?

Can you pin point what triggered the rest pain? Have you tried anything to manage the pain at this point? I'd like some more information please.

What type of treatment is best for shoulder blade pain?

Do you know what is causing this pain?

When should you stop wearing an ankle brace?

I'd consult with your therapist. You may want to start conservatively and wean off it when walking on smooth and flat surfaces but continue to wear the brace if you will be walking READ MORE
I'd consult with your therapist. You may want to start conservatively and wean off it when walking on smooth and flat surfaces but continue to wear the brace if you will be walking on more uneven terrain until you're fully healed.

What type of treatment is best for hip pain?

Do you know what triggered this pain? Is it new or something you've always dealt with? Does anything you do make it better or worse?

What type of brace do you get after knee surgery?

This will depend on the knee surgery, I'd recommend consulting with your therapist (PT ideally).

Is walking good for knee arthritis?

Being active is important but don't overdo it if you have arthritis. Listen to your body and don't push it.

Can a chiropractor straighten my spine?

Regular chiropractic adjustments can help with spine health and alignment.

Should I heat or ice my ankle?

If you just injured your ankle do RICE: Rest, Ice, Compress, Elevate.

Should I massage my ankle?

If you have a swollen ankle I'd do RICE: Rest, Ice, Compress, and Elevate.

How can I quickly fix my shoulder pain?

It will depend on what it is you're dealing with--do you know the root of your pain?

How can I fix a tennis elbow?

I would consult with an occupational therapist. They could give you manual therapy and exercises once you're out of the acute phase. The first step is to rest the affected arm; READ MORE
I would consult with an occupational therapist. They could give you manual therapy and exercises once you're out of the acute phase. The first step is to rest the affected arm; you may even benefit from a brace.

Can physical therapy help back pain?

Yes, therapy can teach you positioning, stretches, and exercises to prevent and manage back pain.

Can nerve damage be repaired with surgery?

Yes, it's not uncommon to treat nerve damage with surgery coupled by occupational therapy.

What kind of cream can you use for hip pain?

What kind of pain are you experiencing? Some people find relief with over-the-counter creams such as Bengay, Tiger Balm, and Icy Hot.