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6 Ways A Vestibular Physical Therapist Can Help You Put Falls in the Past

Posted on by Peter Batz, PT, DPT, OCS, CMTPT, AIB-VRC
A National Council of Aging (NCOA) study found that one out of four Americans over 65 falls each year. However, falls do not only occur in older adults. A recent study found that 48% of young adults have fallen at least once in their lives, followed by 25% falling more than once and 10% reporting an injury from a fall, most commonly from participating in sports or walking across males and females2. While some of these falls may not be avoidable, many are. (more…)

Understanding Lower Extremity Injuries in Cheerleaders and Gymnasts

Posted on by Ashley R. Kelley, PT, Cert DN, AIB-VRC
Cheerleading and gymnastics are incredibly demanding sports requiring strength, flexibility, and precision. Yet, they also carry a significant risk of injury, particularly in the lower extremities. The prevalence of lower extremity injuries in cheerleading and gymnastics worldwide has increased significantly over the last decade as both sports have evolved1,2. One study, including 6-to-17-year-old gymnasts, found that the lower extremity was the most affected site of injury (60.5%), with the ankle/foot and knee joints accounting for 49% and 27% of injuries, respectively. This study also found that 10-to-12-year-olds and 13-to-17-year-olds were at greater risk for lower extremity injury due to increased growth rates compared to 6-to-9-year-olds2. (more…)

The Sub concussive Blow: How Minor Head Impacts Affect Us

Posted on by Kimberly Smith, PT, DPT, VRT
If you follow the NFL, you followed Tua Tagovailoa’s big hit this season, his history of concussions, and his alarming on-field reactions. This is not considered a typical response to a concussion. Many football players (from youth to professional) can play an entire season without sustaining an injury severe enough to be pulled from the game. Many of these athletes, especially a position like a quarterback, may experience what is called repetitive sub-concussive blows or hits to the head. This refers to a head impact that does not necessarily meet the specific clinical criteria to be a diagnosed concussion but still delivers a force to the brain that should be taken seriously. Some of these impacts can happen by direct contact of helmet to helmet, helmet to the ground, or helmet contact with another person or body. Unlike a traditional concussion, these blows don’t usually produce any immediate symptoms such as dizziness, headaches, or confusion. Symptoms may go mostly unnoticed, but in the medical world, we are becoming more focused on the effects of these impacts. (more…)

Mindful Movement for 2025: Prioritizing Health and Wellness

Posted on by Zachary Vandenberg, DPT
As we continue into the year, many of us are motivated to reach our health goals and embrace a more active lifestyle. However, with this renewed energy comes the risk of overexertion, injury, or losing sight of the importance of intentional, sustainable movement. Mindful movement is practice that combines physical activity with mental awareness, offering benefits for both body and mind. Whether new to exercise or looking to refresh your routine, mindful movement practices like mindful walking, beginner yoga, and balance exercises can set the foundation for a healthier, more fulfilling 2025. (more…)

3 Fall Prevention Tips That Are Winter-Proof

Posted on by Kathleen Habschmidt PT, DPT
Winter weather can turn even the most confident walkers into cautious shufflers. Snow and ice make every step feel like a potential slip-and-slide, but don’t let winter keep you inside. Here are three fall prevention tips to help you glide through winter safely (and not on the ice). (more…)

Surviving the Wintertime Brrrs: Tips on Cold Weather Running

Posted on by Melissa S. Walker, PT, CLT
It is much easier to get out the door on that mid-week run on a sunny, mild spring day, but winter running is not as simple. How many layers should I wear? Should I wear gloves or mittens? How do I protect my head and face? Will it be dark before I’m done? What type of shoes should I wear? Have they plowed my route? How do I warm up? What’s a safe temperature? Do I need to take hydration with me? Here’s how I try to answer these questions while preparing to run outside in the winter. (more…)

How Important Are Ergonomics? (Plus 3 Signs You Could Improve Your Posture)

Posted on by Kathleen Habschmidt PT, DPT
Many of us spend hours each day staring at a screen, slouched in a seat, and hunched over a desk, all of which can lead to poor posture and discomfort. Ergonomics is the science of designing your workspace, tools, and tasks to fit your body’s needs. When applied correctly, ergonomics can prevent discomfort, reduce injury risk, and improve your overall work well-being. But how do you know if your posture needs adjusting? Here are three signs that it’s time to make some adjustments. (more…)

What Does Physical Therapy Look Like After A Knee Replacement?

Posted on by Peter Batz, PT, DPT, OCS, CMTPT, AIB-VRC
Are you planning on having a knee replacement? Did you recently just have one? Knee replacements are one of the most common types of replacement surgeries. Many patients experience a lot of uncertainty around the recovery process post-surgery. In this blog, we’ll dive deeper into the recovery journey so you can be prepared to head into your procedure. (more…)
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