Athletico Health Resources

Week 2 of November is a straight legged low lunge with an added extension of the foot for a shin stretch. It sounds complicated but I promise it's pretty simple! :) You will need two yoga blocks (or something similarly sturdy) and a blanket for cushion. The contraindications for this stretch are if you have severe knee problems or have trouble getting to the floor, then please do not attempt the stretch. (more…)

Lower extremity strength training is a priority when considering a comprehensive training program for youth hockey players. Most coaches consider dynamic stretching, functional strengthening and plyometric training to be enough. However in a sport where agility and balance are essential it is important to consider how players can improve these components off the ice. (more…)

Hello! Welcome to November’s weekly stretch. This month we will be focusing on our shins. For those of you that have ever experienced shin splints, this month is for you! Our shin and calf muscles connect down into our feet, so these stretches will also help to keep your feet healthy! The first week is a standing shin stretch. You will need a wall for assistance. The only contraindication is if your ankle is injured, please don't do the stretch. (more…)

October is National Physical Therapy Month.

In honor of physical therapy month here are some physical therapy fun facts that you may not have been aware of. Did you know?: (more…)

The home exercise program is the elephant in the room at a lot of physical therapy sessions. A lot of people simply don’t like doing their exercises during their free time. Trust me. I understand the liberating feeling of just going to a clinic dedicated to physical therapy, mentally checking out and being told what to do to improve. While this will work, you won’t be getting the most out of your rehab with this mindset. (more…)

The final stretch in our mini sequence of chair stretching is a forward fold AND a chest opener. I love two for ones! :) The only contraindication for this stretch would be if you have a shoulder injury. I will give you a modification for the shoulder opening part or just don't perform that part of the stretch. You will need a chair for this stretch. If it's a rolling chair please make sure the wheels are locked or you will fall off the chair. (more…)

“Just one more page.”  One minute you're being pulled into a great mystery novel and the next thing...your fingers are tingling.  Shaking out your hand and moving your elbow in and out seem to return your fingers to normal but a few pages later, the tingling returns, especially in the small finger.  Perhaps your first thought is, “Carpal tunnel syndrome.”  A quick Internet search only causes more confusion.  You might have cubital tunnel syndrome. (more…)

Week three of October brings us to a seated twist with a chair. Try to use a chair that does not swivel, otherwise this stretch will be hard to accomplish. You will also need a book or yoga block or something similar in density and size. The only contraindication for this twist is if you have severe sacral issues. (more…)