Athletico Health Resources

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…)

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…)

A prostatectomy is a surgical procedure to remove the prostate gland. There are two types of procedures: a simple prostatectomy and a radical prostatectomy. A simple prostatectomy is the removal of the prostate and a radical prostatectomy is the removal of the prostate and surrounding tissues. While you will receive post-operative instructions from your physician, here are some answers to frequently asked questions (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…)

One factor that athletic trainers and physical therapists look at when assessing knee injury risk is the reliance someone has between 3 groups of muscles – the quadriceps (quads), glutes, and hamstrings. Here’s a quick rundown of what these muscle groups all do: (more…)

Help Beyond Medications

Prostatitis is described as either an infection or an inflammation present in the prostate.  It can affect men of all ages. The primary symptom of prostatitis is repeated urinary tract infections (UTIs), however, more symptoms can be present. (more…)

Today’s blog post is written by guest blogger, Ryan Mertz, PT, DPT, CSCS. Ryan is also the Team Physical Therapist for the Chicago Cubs.

Much has remained constant in the game of professional baseball over the last 100 years, such as the distance from the pitching rubber to the plate, but significantly more has changed. Players are bigger, faster and stronger. Spectators know the speed and break of every pitch and that a ballpark hotdog costs an arm and a leg. With the progression of the game through technology, research and physical development standards, much of the lessons learned at the pro level have now trickled down into amateur baseball. (more…)

The theory of “no pain, no gain” is a popular saying and belief that I address in the physical therapy setting on a daily basis. Some people believe that in order to improve pain, strength, or flexibility, pain must be involved. Many attend therapy with the impression that physical therapy will hurt immensely and will nickname their soon-to-be physical therapist the “physical torturer”. Some come to their first session with fear and some come with the attitude of “hurt me so I can get better!” These are the individuals who are often surprised and/or relieved when I say that the goal is to relieve the pain, not to create it.  Of course, there are times when I have to create some pain to help a patient get better, but for the majority of patients, I am looking to find a way to increase mobility and strength without pushing through pain. (more…)