Athletico Health Resources

Congratulations! You have been selected to run in a Marathon. Now what? Whether you signed up for fun or in hopes to set a personal best, you have now committed yourself to 26.2 miles of fun! (more…)

Editor’s note: The following blog was originally posted on Triathlon & Multisport Magazine. You can follow them on Twitter @trimultimag. Travis Orth is a Physical Therapist at Athletico Willowbrook.

Triathlon is a sport that rewards hard work. And while we can all strive to be the best we can be, 99.9 per cent of us will never enjoy the view from the top step of the podium at a major endurance race. Why is this may have something to do with our genetics. Dr. Travis Orth sheds some light on recent research into a number of genes that may affect endurance performance. (more…)

Summer offers an opportunity for a break from the norm, but it shocks me how many of the athletes I work with use the opportunity to do more of the same. They play more of the same sports they play all year. They spend more time exercising in the same old ways they always have and go at the same pace they have all year long. Here are a few ideas to help shake up your routine and help you become a healthier, better-rounded athlete. (more…)

Use these tips to safely return to postpartum running!

*Note this blog is based on blogger’s experience as a new Mom as well as her professional opinion as a physical therapist.

As a new Mom and runner, I was excited and anxious to get back to running. I knew I was in no physical shape to compete after giving birth to my son but I was anxious to use running as an outlet to have some “Mommy” time alone. I can vividly remember my first run.  I knew it was not going to be pretty and only set my goal to complete two miles. Little did I know that that was a lofty goal!  I made it half way and was ready for a walking “break.” Since my first run postpartum, I have gradually increased my mileage.  Below are some tips that I would like to share that have helped me get back out on the road (and treadmill)! (more…)

Today’s blog post is written by guest blogger Sean Hassett, PT, DPT at Athletico Andersonville

You just ran 12 miles, but this was not your typical 12 mile run. This was 12 miles of running up and down hills, climbing up and over walls, hanging on for dear life at some point, jumping over logs, carrying logs, plunging in for a deep cold ice bath, and of course getting really muddy. You have just completed a Mud Run and Obstacle Race. Congratulations!

At the end of the race such as Tough Mudder, you have received your headband, your T-shirt saying you survived, and had your celebratory beer (21 and older) with your fellow racers, now what? It is time to start the recovery process as this is not your normal race. (more…)

The rotator cuff is responsible for allowing your shoulder to move in multiple directions. The rotator cuff is responsible for internally, externally, and abducting the shoulder on the humerus or major bone that forms the arm. These muscles play a major role in moving the entire complex of the shoulder. (more…)

Today’s blog post is written by guest blogger Jennifer Short, PT at Athletico Garfield Ridge/Midway

Congratulations! You are registered for a Marathon, but now what? Running 26.2 miles at once seems daunting but with a plan and dedication you can accomplish this goal. Here are 5 tips to get you off and running on the right foot: (more…)

What Is Adhesive Capsulitis (Frozen Shoulder)?

Adhesive Capsulitis or frozen shoulder involves a thickening and tightening of the shoulder tissues. Research is still being done on why it may occur and what is actually occurring within a freezing joint.  Some studies have shown that a small injury may create an inflammatory response in some individuals that triggers the stiffening of the tissues surrounding the joint. Frozen shoulder occurs more in women between the ages of 45 and 65 years old, and those who have Diabetes or Thyroid problems appear to have an increased chance of having frozen shoulder. (more…)