Stretching is an important aspect of fitness and health. There are other types of stretches than the basic static stretching. In a previous post, I talk about static stretching (check it out here) and how long to hold that stretch for. Static stretching is described as a stretch you hold for a certain length of […]
Diastasis Recti
Diastasis Recti is a very common ailment of pregnant women. Exercises to help fix are simple and can be done without equipment. What is Diastasis Recti? Diastasis Recti is the separation of the abdominal wall at the Rectus Abdominus. The muscles of the left and right side have widened making a space your fingers could […]
Trigger Point Release
Trigger Point Release (TPR) is the final form of soft tissue work performed manually I will discuss in this series. What are Trigger Points? Trigger points are spots in the muscle fibers or “knots” that are sore and cause the increased pain we feel. TPR is the process of applying pressure to or rubbing the […]
Cupping
Another type of soft tissue manual therapy I will discuss is cupping. Cupping has been around for thousands of years in ancient Egypt, China, and middle Eastern countries. In that version of cupping, glass cups are more commonly used and a lit substance under the cup to induce the suction of the skin. It was […]
Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization
A Physical Therapist can do many different types of manual therapy (see here for the different types). But a specific type is call soft tissue mobilization or other types of soft tissue work. There are numerous types of these including: STM (soft tissue mobilization) or massage IASTM (instrument assisted soft tissue mobilization) with the use […]
The 3 I’s of Exercise
Did you know there are 3 different types of strengthening exercises also known as the 3 I’s of exercise? Most people only know about one and only perform that one when training. But as a physical therapist, I will have patients perform all 3. These exercises are named Isometric, Isotonic, and Isokinetic. Isotonic The most […]
Adhesive Capsulitis
Adhesive capsulitis, also known as frozen shoulder, is a condition that can be very debilitating. With frozen shoulder, the ligaments and tendons that make up the capsule of the shoulder joint, begin to tighten and adhere in the joint. This process is painful and leads to decreased motion of the shoulder. It is also an […]
Neck Pain Prevention
Neck pain is another very common complaint I get working as a Physical Therapist. Neck pain is one of the most prevalent injuries in the clinics. It is also an injury that can be easily prevented. Neck and back pain are some of the most prevalent injuries in the clinics. Neck pain has similar and […]
Nerve Stretches
Nerves are an important part of our bodies and they need to be able to move without restriction. They are also the reason we move our muscles and breathe. Unlike our muscles that are very elastic, nerves are not, but they do need to stretch slightly as to not become torn with movement. Nerve Damage […]
How to Start Running
Getting started running can be difficult if you have never done it before but do not become discouraged against trying it out. Running is an amazing exercise activity and is great for your heart health. Not only is it a good way to help you get in shape, but it is also free. It does […]