Physical Therapy Blog

Receiving a diagnosis of Parkinson's disease can come as a shock, especially when it’s completely unexpected. Stacy Rowland and her husband, Mike, experienced this firsthand in 2014. What started as a small tremor in Mike’s finger turned into a Parkinson’s diagnosis after a brief movement assessment at a doctor's appointment. As Stacy has learned over the years of caring for her husband, no Parkinson’s caregiver faces the disease alone. Understanding how Parkinson’s progresses, adapting to its challenges, and finding the proper support can significantly impact quality of life for everyone involved. Stacy’s story is one of resilience, joy, and finding purpose amidst a scary diagnosis - we can all learn from her approach to life’s challenges.

Knee pain is a common condition that affects individuals across all demographics, often limiting the ability to perform daily activities or participate in physical exercise and sport. Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (PFPS) is one of the leading causes of knee pain, impacting approximately 22.7% of the general population. This condition does not discriminate—affecting everyone from an elite marathoner to a parent trying to squat to play with their toddler on the floor. Women are twice as likely as men to experience PFPS, and 1 in 14 adolescents will encounter this condition during their development. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for PFPS is crucial for effective management and long-term relief.

Tight hip flexors are a common issue that can affect your comfort, mobility, and overall health. If you’ve ever experienced stiffness or discomfort in the front of your hips, you might be dealing with hip flexor tightness. Understanding why your hip flexors may be tight and what you can do about it is essential for maintaining healthy movement and preventing further complications.

Running is one of the most accessible forms of exercise, but it comes in many forms, each with its own benefits and challenges. Among the most popular are road running and trail running. Both provide excellent cardiovascular workouts, build strength and endurance, and offer a chance to enjoy the outdoors. However, they differ significantly in their demands, equipment, and appeal. In this article, we’ll compare road running and trail running, delve into the pros and cons of each, discuss variations in equipment, and provide tips for getting started with both.

Wellness coaching has gained popularity as more people seek professional guidance to improve their overall health, achieve fitness goals, or cultivate a more balanced lifestyle. However, one question often arises: How much does wellness coaching cost? Understanding the average cost, the factors that influence pricing, and why investing in wellness coaching can be worth it will help you decide whether it fits your needs and budget. Additionally, we’ll share strategies for saving money while still benefiting from expert guidance.

Office work often involves long hours of sitting, repetitive movements, and a sedentary lifestyle that can take a toll on both physical and mental health. As more people become aware of the importance of maintaining wellness in the workplace, Pilates has emerged as a powerful tool to counteract the physical strain and stress of office life. This low-impact exercise method, focusing on core strength, flexibility, and posture, is particularly suited for individuals tied to a desk.

Osteoarthritis is a chronic condition that affects millions of individuals worldwide, characterized by the gradual breakdown of cartilage in the joints. This wear and tear often lead to pain, stiffness, and decreased mobility, making it a challenging condition to navigate. For those seeking a low-impact way to improve joint health and overall well-being, Pilates offers an excellent solution. This article will explore the symptoms of osteoarthritis, the benefits of Pilates, how it can be modified for safety, and how it complements a broader osteoarthritis treatment plan.

Maintaining good posture is essential for overall health, yet it’s something many of us struggle with due to long hours at a desk, sedentary lifestyles, or repetitive activities. Posture-correcting devices have become a popular solution for those looking to alleviate discomfort and retrain their muscles. This article will explore different types of posture-correcting devices, their benefits, product recommendations, and when they might not be appropriate. We’ll also discuss other effective methods, including physical therapy, to support long-term postural health.

You all know Nick Saban, widely considered to be one of the greatest football coaches of all time. Throughout his career, he has won seven national titles, the most of any coach in college football history. He is truly a living legend, but you might not know that his career could have taken a different path. Saban grew up playing football in a small mining town in West Virginia, and in college, he was a defensive back at Kent State University. He knew he wanted to get into coaching, but when the head coach position at Kent State opened up after the 1987 season, he was passed over in favor of someone else.

Good posture isn’t just about standing tall—it’s a vital component of overall health and wellbeing. Poor posture can lead to discomfort, pain, and even long-term health complications. Thankfully, physical therapy provides a targeted approach to assess, treat, and improve posture. This article will explore what “healthy” posture looks like, common causes of poor posture, why posture matters, how physical therapists evaluate and treat posture, and strategies you can use at home to maintain good posture.