Read more about the article The Road to Recovery: How Physical Therapy Guides Overhead Athletes Back to the Game

The Road to Recovery: How Physical Therapy Guides Overhead Athletes Back to the Game

By Pat Griffin, PT, DPT, SCSOverhead athletes - throwers, pitchers, spikers, and racquet athletes - frequently encounter injuries stemming from repetitive motions, overuse, and the high-impact nature of their sports. Participating in overhead sports can leave these athletes vulnerable to injuries disruptive to their performance - particularly concerning the shoulders and arms.  In the journey of any injured overhead athlete returning to the field or court, physical therapy emerges as pivotal and essential. It’s necessary to understand the role of physical therapy in rehabilitating overhead athletes, by offering insights into…

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Read more about the article Importance of Plyometric and Multi-Planar Training for Field Sport Athletes

Importance of Plyometric and Multi-Planar Training for Field Sport Athletes

Written By: Jacob Myers, PT, DPT, CSCS When designing a fitness routine or strength & conditioning program, many athletes and trainers emphasize the importance of training “functional movement patterns.” These patterns refer to the global movements we commonly perform in daily life, and therefore, it is crucial to develop strength and endurance in these areas. The primary functional movement patterns include: Horizontal & Vertical Pushing: Examples include bench press, push-ups, and military press. Horizontal & Vertical Pulling: Exercises like rows and pull-ups. Squat: A staple movement such as the barbell…

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Read more about the article Importance of Verbiage Used for Athletes Returning to Sports

Importance of Verbiage Used for Athletes Returning to Sports

Written By: Taylor Hensh, PT, DPT, CSCS Multidisciplinary Approach to Athlete Rehabilitation Rehabilitating athletes effectively requires a multidisciplinary approach, involving collaboration among physical therapists, athletic trainers, physicians, nutritionists, and mental health professionals. This comprehensive strategy ensures that all aspects of the athlete’s recovery are addressed, promoting optimal healing and performance (Brennan et al., 2017). Consistent terminology across the care team enhances trust, understanding, and accountability throughout the rehabilitation process (Cook & Finch, 2014). Individualized Return to Sport Progression Returning to sport after an injury is not a one-size-fits-all process; it…

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Read more about the article Postpartum Exercise: A Gradual and Safe Return to Fitness

Postpartum Exercise: A Gradual and Safe Return to Fitness

Written By: Dr. Alissa Klein, PT, DPT As a Doctor of Physical Therapy, I understand the importance of a well-structured and gentle return to exercise postpartum. A gradual return to exercise is safe and healthy for your postpartum body; these exercises are meant to help you get back to the activities you love as well as train for the physical work of lifting and carrying your new bundle of joy as they grow. Returning to physical activity looks different for every new parent. Progress through these stages at your own…

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Read more about the article Get a Grip! Understanding the Link Between Grip Strength and Longevity

Get a Grip! Understanding the Link Between Grip Strength and Longevity

Written By: Emily Garguilo, PT, DPT Did you know that one of the most accurate physical indicators of a person's longevity is their grip strength? At first glance, this might seem like an unlikely predictor. However, in this blog, we will delve into the question on everyone's mind: why? The Importance of Strength Training Across the Lifespan Recent evidence has overwhelmingly highlighted the importance of strength training throughout a person’s lifespan. For instance, if you aspire to get up and down from the floor independently to play with your grandchildren…

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Read more about the article Tips and Tricks to Prevent Injuries in Pickleball

Tips and Tricks to Prevent Injuries in Pickleball

Written By: Dr. Allison Funk, PT, DPT, ATC Pickleball is a sport that combines skills from badminton, ping pong and tennis that can be played on indoor and outdoor courts. Participants are often attracted to pickleball as it is a great form of low-impact exercise that promotes socialization and competitiveness for all ages. But before you grab a paddle, it's worth knowing how to keep yourself injury-free on the court. As much fun as pickleball is, it does come with some risks, especially for those over 60. Injuries like sprains,…

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Read more about the article Importance of Plyometric Training for Runners and Return to Run

Importance of Plyometric Training for Runners and Return to Run

Coming back from a running injury and want to get back to logging your normal mileage? Many runners at some point in their running journey have experienced an injury that can alter their activity. This can be frustrating as these injuries can hinder runners from training for a race or maintaining their weekly mileage.  As a means of trying to return to running seamlessly, consider plyometric training before returning to run. Incorporating plyometrics can be a great way to bridge the preparation of running. Think of running as an extension…

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Read more about the article Importance of Strength Training for the Young Female Athlete

Importance of Strength Training for the Young Female Athlete

Written by: Allison Scheller, PT, DPT Physical therapy can help when you are injured, but we can also help prevent injuries, especially when it comes to young female athletes. Female athletes are more susceptible to injuries, such as ACL injuries, ankle sprains, and concussions. They also are at risk for developing female athlete triad. It is important to screen these athletes for strength imbalances that may cause these individuals to be more at risk for developing these injuries. Some other contributing factors to increased injury rate includes: Wider pelvis- which…

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Read more about the article Lower Back Training for Lifters with Back Pain

Lower Back Training for Lifters with Back Pain

By: Ryan Bibeau, PT, DPT, CSCS, Clinical Athlete Powerlifting Coach Many gym-goers, especially powerlifters and olympic weightlifters, hit low back pain at some point. For a lot of them it's a frustrating stretch, and they struggle to find anything that actually manages the pain and gets them back to lifting. Most rehab and accessory plans lean on core stability drills like bird dogs and dead bugs. Those earn their place, but there's another area worth adding: isolated low back training. Why Isolated Low Back Training Works If you're dealing with…

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Read more about the article Rock Climbing Technique Basics

Rock Climbing Technique Basics

If you are new to rock climbing and have started your journey by yourself in a gym, then you have probably heard other climbers discussing different types of holds and techniques. If you are confused or unsure of what they are talking about, then this is a great place to start. In this post we will talk through some common terms in regards to technique and how you interact with a wall, however this will not be an exhaustive list by any means as there are many climbing specific words,…

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