Health Resources

Can Dry Needling Help Sciatica Pain?

Posted on April 10, 2023 by Peter Batz, PT, DPT, OCS, CMTPT, AIB-VRC

You or somebody you know has probably had an episode of low back pain that radiates into one or both legs. This is commonly referred to as sciatica. The sciatic nerve travels from the low back through the hips, glutes, and down into your lower leg. These symptoms are usually caused by disc involvement at a specific segment of the spine applying pressure to the nerve or a tight muscle a bit farther down the line, compressing the nerve. (more…)

Beginner Workout Plan You Can Take To The Gym

Posted on April 7, 2023 by Peter Batz, PT, DPT, OCS, CMTPT, AIB-VRC

Getting into the gym that first time can be pretty intimidating. Especially with that guy screaming in the corner as he deadlifts 400 lbs. Below, we’ll go over a plan you can bring into the gym on your first week and progress independently when you feel comfortable. If you experience any pain while exercising, stop and seek help from a physician or a physical therapist. (more…)

Occupational Therapy Or Hand Therapy? How To Decide Which Is Best For You

Posted on April 5, 2023 by Janet Apgar, OTR/L, CHT, CMTPT/DN, AIB-VRC, ASTYM-cert

Occupational Therapy

When you think of Occupational Therapy, do you think "work”? Many do! But that is too narrow. Occupational Therapy focuses on returning the student, client, or patient to daily tasks they need/want to do throughout their life. These functional tasks are labeled “occupations” and include feeding, dressing, bathing, house and yard chores, meal preparation, school work, driving, caregiving, recreation, and work too! This list is not exhaustive, and the different “occupations” importance varies with age, injury/illness, and individual goals. For example, in pediatrics, an Occupational Therapist obviously will not work on driving skills with a preschooler. Occupational Therapists evaluate and collaborate with the individual to implement a customized treatment plan and re-evaluate with functional outcome measures to assess progress toward the individual's goals. (more…)

Should Gymnasts Lift Weights?

Posted on April 3, 2023 by Tara Hackney, PT, DPT, OCS, KTTP

Gymnasts are strong, and they have to be to do their amazing tumbling passes, hang and spin on the bars, and perform their routines on beam or pommel horse. Weight lifting is a common way that many athletes build strength. However, in the gymnastics world, weight lifting has mixed reactions. Historically, many gymnastic coaches and athletes have discouraged weight lifting routines as they may “bulk” up the athlete. Gymnasts need to maintain certain agility and flexibility to perform their skills and be able to fly through the air. The question becomes, “can a gymnast lift weights for strengthening purposes without causing harm?” (more…)

How to Rock Your Cheerleading Tryouts

Posted on March 31, 2023 by Ashley Parrinello, PTA

Cheerleading has become one of the fastest-growing sports, and it is no surprise why! Cheerleading has evolved into an activity involving gymnastics, stunts, jumps, and dance jam-packed into a three-minute routine, while most times simultaneously cheering for your school. We hope these tips help you feel more prepared for your big day! (more…)

5 Tips For Better Sleeping Throughout Pregnancy

Posted on March 30, 2023 by Chelsea Silva, PT, DPT

Being well-rested and getting enough sleep are vital in a healthy pregnancy. Your body is building a baby, which takes a lot of energy! Although sleeping is important during this time, there are many obstacles to getting good sleep when pregnant. With pregnancy comes body aches and pains, leg cramps, the extra weight that can lead to shortness of breath, and insomnia due to changing hormones. Here are 5 tips for prioritizing sleep, despite these hurdles. (more…)

Is Dry Needling a Fad?

Posted on March 29, 2023 by Brian Whittington, PT, DPT, CMTPT

Dry needling is a treatment technique that uses a thin needle to treat underlying muscular trigger points and/or areas of tissue tenderness. This technique can be used to treat patients with musculoskeletal issues, including neck pain, low back pain, sciatica, muscle strains, IT band syndrome, plantar fasciitis, fibromyalgia, and many more. (more…)

What is the Cold Plunge Trend?

Posted on March 28, 2023 by Tara Hackney, PT, DPT, OCS, KTTP

Recently seen all over various social media is the cold plunge trend. A cold plunge is where a person immerses themselves in cold or icy water for a certain length of time for various health benefits. The trend has sparked a lot of viewers to try this technique themselves, but we want to make sure you know the pros and cons and focus on performing this trend safely should you decide to try it out. (more…)