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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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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THE ROLE OF PT IN HOLISTIC HEALTH REGIMENS

Written By: Katelyn Goodhart, PT, DPT, Clinical Coordinator When contemplating physical therapy, many tend to focus solely on aspects of "physical health," a natural association given the name. In my clinical experience, I frequently encounter patients who perceive physical therapy as the primary means of improving their well-being. While physical therapy undoubtedly offers valuable benefits and interventions, its effectiveness can be enhanced by considering other dimensions of health. In the realm of injury rehabilitation and pain management, a more comprehensive approach is essential for a better outcome. The World Health…

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RED-S and Postpartum Return to Running

Written By: Corinne Howe, PT, DPT What is RED-S? RED-S, or Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport, results in impaired functions such as metabolic rate, menstrual function, bone health, immunity, protein synthesis, and cardiovascular health. This condition arises when an individual’s caloric intake does not meet the energy demands of daily activities and exercise habits. Key Symptoms of RED-S in Postpartum Women The energy demands of postpartum women differ significantly from those at other life stages. Factors to consider include daily activity energy demands, breastfeeding status, sleep quality, and exercise-related energy…

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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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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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A Guide to Asymmetrical Posture & Movement

Written by: Chris RoosaGood Posture Good posture has many important benefits, including making you appear younger, taller,  and even more confident - but there is more to “perfect” posture than how others perceive you. Good posture has lifelong health benefits that can dramatically improve your quality of life, and even help you live longer! This article will give you insights on the difference between static and dynamic posture, and steps you can take today to optimize your personal posture for better health, improved performance, and a fully optimized physique. Posture…

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Feeling Unsteady or Worried about Falling?

Dr. Rebecca Spiker, DPT, ATC Many people know the phrase “if you don’t use it, you lose it” when it comes to strength training. But did you know that the same phrase also applies to your balance?  I have found that many people are scared to train their balance because they are fearful of losing their balance and falling. However, if we are not practicing the situations that make us unsteady (in a safe manner), we are only going to become more unsteady and fearful of falling. Our bodies will…

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The Longest Drive

Tips for driving with low back pain By Maria Nasralla, PT, DPT, COMT Are you experiencing a recent onset of low back pain but are set to go on a very long weekend trip? You were excited to get out of town, but now dread sitting in the car? Sitting and driving is one of those activities that are hard to avoid, but depending on what is causing the back pain, can also make it so much worse. There are some adjustments that you can make proactively if you are…

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Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause (GSM)

What is Genitourinary syndrome of menopause? Genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM) is a new term that describes various menopausal symptoms and signs including not only genital symptoms, and sexual symptoms, but also urinary symptoms. The terms vulvovaginal atrophy and atrophic vaginitis, which were generally used until recently, had a limitation because they did not cover the full spectrum of symptoms and did not imply that the symptoms are related to a decreased estrogen level in menopause.  -Ref: Journal of Menopausal Medicine What causes Genitourinary syndrome of menopause? A lack of…

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