Physical Therapy Blog

Gestational diabetes is a condition that can affect women during pregnancy, characterized by high blood sugar levels that are first diagnosed during pregnancy. Unlike other types of diabetes, gestational diabetes is not caused by a lack of insulin, but rather by hormonal changes during pregnancy that can make insulin less effective—a condition known as insulin resistance. Understanding this condition, its causes, risk factors, and how to manage it effectively, particularly through exercise, is vital for the health of both mother and baby. Our women’s health team at EW Motion Therapy can create customized exercise programs that are safe during pregnancy and can help keep you active. You may decide that our services don’t fit your needs, but you can still read on to learn about gestational diabetes, how exercise can help reduce your risk of developing the condition, and how physical therapy can be a valuable intervention to keep your exercises safe and effective.

CrossFit, a high-intensity fitness regimen that encompasses elements from various sports and types of exercise, has surged in popularity worldwide. It appeals to those seeking a dynamic and challenging workout, promising improvements in strength, endurance, and overall physical fitness. However, the very nature of CrossFit - involving complex movements performed at high intensities - can expose athletes to the risk of injury. This is where physical therapy comes into play, serving as a crucial resource for not only rehabilitation but also for injury prevention and performance enhancement. We love helping our athletes in all these areas at EW Motion Therapy - our team considers it a privilege to serve as encouragers and allies in their fitness journey. Even if you decide that our services don’t fit your needs, you can read on as we explore why CrossFit athletes may need physical therapy, identify the most common injuries within this community, and discuss how physical therapy treatment plans are uniquely tailored to support the CrossFit athlete's journey back to their peak condition.

Dancing is not just an art; it's a highly physical activity that demands strength, flexibility, and endurance. Whether you are a ballet dancer, a hip-hop enthusiast, or a contemporary performer, stretching should be an integral part of your routine. We love helping our dancers at EW Motion Therapy incorporate stretches in their routine, and we tailor specific stretches for their type of dance and their goals. You may decide that our services don’t fit your needs, but you can still read this guide as we explore the best stretches for dancers, emphasizing why stretching is crucial and how it can vary based on the dancer's level and dance style.

We all had a teacher in school who, for some reason, seemed determined to make their class the opposite of an enjoyable experience. Whether they meant to or not, you could not wait to be done with their class, and you likely still remember the negative impact on your mental health from that semester. Now, picture a gymnast or competitive cheerleader trying to improve in their sport and stay healthy with a coach who acts like that teacher. Doesn’t sound fun anymore, right?

Dance, in its many forms, transcends mere movement to embody expression, emotion, and storytelling. Among the many styles, ballet and contemporary dance stand out, each with unique flavor, techniques, and demands on its practitioners. We love working with ballet and contemporary dancers at EW Motion Therapy, addressing their unique needs and goals through sport-specific programming. Whether you decide that our physical therapy is right for you, you can still read on as we delve into ballet and contemporary dance, exploring the distinct training regimens, requisite skills, and approaches to enhancing performance and preventing injury in each discipline. Whether you're a dancer, an enthusiast, or simply curious, understanding these differences can deepen your appreciation for the art and athleticism of dance.

Living with a limp can pose unique challenges to staying active, but it doesn't mean you have to give up on leading a healthy and fulfilling lifestyle. Understanding the underlying causes of a limp, how to adapt your exercise routine, and the crucial role of physical therapy can empower you to stay active and maintain your well-being. This guide aims to provide you with the knowledge and tools needed to navigate the complexities of staying active with a limp, ensuring that you make well-informed decisions for your health.

In an era where health and wellness are at the forefront of our minds, supplements have become an integral part of many people’s daily routines. Whether you take vitamin C, probiotics for gut health, or drink a protein shake, supplements are pervasive and highly visible, as many influencers are paid to promote their favorites. But with a wealth of information comes the inherent risk of some of it being false or not reliable. How do you know which supplement companies you can trust? How can you tell the difference between a trustworthy, scientifically proven product and the rest of the fads? And ultimately, how do you pick the supplements that you actually need?

Recovering from a musculoskeletal injury can be challenging for anyone who loves to stay active. It's a period marked by frustration, as the limitations imposed by injury directly conflict with your fitness goals. However, it's crucial to understand that staying active during recovery, when done correctly, not only aids in healing but also maintains your fitness levels. We love helping our patients at EW Motion Therapy stay active during recovery, and our team can tailor treatment plans specifically to your injury and needs. Even if you decide that our physical therapy isn’t right for you, you can still read on as we explore how to adapt your fitness routine safely, the risks of not adjusting your workouts, and the pivotal role physical therapy plays in your recovery journey.

Protein is a crucial component of every cell in the body, playing a vital role in various bodily functions, including cell repair, muscle growth, and immune system support. However, the amount of protein one needs can change significantly as they age due to various factors. Understanding these changes and adjusting your diet accordingly can help maintain health, strength, and vitality throughout your life. This guide will explore how protein needs evolve with age, factors influencing these needs, and resources to help you determine the right amount of protein for you.

Competitive cheerleading is a dynamic and demanding sport that requires not just physical strength and agility but also a strong mental game. It's an activity that combines elements of gymnastics, dance, and teamwork, all choreographed to create an enthralling performance. In such a high-stakes environment, setting realistic goals is paramount. It helps athletes focus their efforts, improve performance, and maintain motivation. In this guide, we delve into the process of goal-setting for competitive cheerleaders, providing insights on establishing achievable objectives, preparing both mentally and physically before competitions, and revisiting goals post-competition.