Physical Therapy Blog

Lifts are some of the most visually stunning elements of dance performances, showcasing the trust, strength, and coordination between dancers. Whether performed by a duo in a romantic ballet or a synchronized group in a contemporary number, lifts demand physical and mental precision. However, while breathtaking on stage, lifts also come with significant challenges, and improper execution can lead to injuries. This article will explore the components of successful lifts, the responsibilities of each dancer, common reasons lifts go wrong, how participants can improve, and the role of physical therapy in helping dancers achieve their best.

For young dancers, puberty can be both an exciting and challenging time. As they navigate through physical changes, many dancers find that their bodies no longer respond in the same way they once did. Flexibility may decrease, muscles may feel tighter, and balance can become harder to maintain. These changes, which are a natural part of development, can impact a dancer’s performance and self-esteem. However, with the right knowledge and habits, dancers can endure these shifts and even use them to their advantage. In this article, we'll explore the changes dancers can expect during puberty, how they might affect performance, healthy habits to navigate this period, and how physical therapy can be a valuable resource.

Leaps and jumps are the heart of many dance routines, showcasing a dancer's athleticism, grace, and precision. These movements require a combination of strength, flexibility, coordination, and power, making them some of the most challenging and rewarding aspects of dance. However, without proper preparation and conditioning, these movements can lead to injury and hinder a dancer's performance. In this article, we'll explore the best exercises for dancers to improve their leaps and jumps, the muscle groups involved in these movements, the risks of inadequate preparation, and how physical therapy can play a crucial role in enhancing these skills.

Cortisol, often referred to as the "stress hormone," plays a pivotal role in the body's ability to manage stress and maintain overall health. While its name might imply negativity, cortisol is essential for various bodily functions. Regular physical activity is a great way to maintain healthy cortisol levels - we love helping our clients reduce pain and improve mobility so they can maintain an active, healthy lifestyle. Even if you decide that our services don’t fit your needs, you can still read this article as we explore what cortisol is, its primary purpose, factors that influence its levels, the consequences of elevated cortisol, and strategies to maintain healthy cortisol levels.

Pregnancy is a transformative journey, both physically and emotionally. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle becomes paramount as your body undergoes significant changes to nurture a new life. One key component of this lifestyle is cardiovascular exercise, commonly referred to as cardio. Regular cardio during pregnancy offers many benefits, but safe exercise during pregnancy is critical. A physical therapist can be an excellent resource for learning safe exercise practices and maintaining an active lifestyle as pregnancy progresses. Our women’s health specialists at EW Motion Therapy love helping our pregnant moms do this through customized plans and education on safety considerations. Even if you decide that our services don’t fit your needs, it’s essential to understand the safety considerations and complementary exercises to ensure both mother and baby thrive.

Walking is one of the simplest, most accessible forms of exercise, offering significant physical and mental health benefits. However, regarding the number of steps we should aim for daily, there's a lot of information—and sometimes misinformation—floating around. We always tell our patients at EW Motion Therapy that motion is lotion, and walking is one of the easiest ways for anyone to pursue healthy movement habits. Let's delve into the science behind the recommended step count, explore factors that might adjust these numbers, and share practical tips for integrating more movement into a hectic schedule.

Flexibility, often associated with images of yogis twisting into pretzel-like poses or athletes bending effortlessly, is critical to physical health and wellness. It's not just about achieving impressive stretches; it's a vital component of our daily lives, influencing how we move, our susceptibility to injuries, and our overall physical capabilities. We love helping our clients at EW Motion Therapy increase flexibility, whether they are a gymnast or a grandmother wanting to join her grandkids in their favorite activities. Even if you decide that our services don’t fit your needs, you can still read on as we dive into the science behind flexibility, understand the factors influencing it, and explore ways to enhance it, including the role of physical therapy.

In the world of dance, where every movement is a story told and every performance a testament to human capability, the significance of recovery is monumental. Recovery isn’t just a reprieve; it’s an essential part of a dancer’s routine to maintain health and ensure their career. We always encourage our athletes to prioritize recovery at EW Motion Therapy because not taking time for recovery will slow you down in the long run instead of continuing forward without rest. Even if you choose not to do physical therapy with us, you can still read on as we discuss why recovery is so important for dancers, the recovery aspects they should focus on, and an example of a weekly recovery routine.

Whether you're a ballet lover or a hip-hop enthusiast, conditioning and strength training are non-negotiable for dancing. They are the secret ingredients that can transform a good dancer into a phenomenal one. But what exactly is conditioning and strength training? And how can dancers incorporate these practices into their routines?

Dance is a physically demanding art form that requires strength, flexibility, and endurance. With the rigors of practice and performances, it's no surprise that dancers often face injuries. However, physical therapy can be a game-changer for dancers, helping them prevent injuries, recover, and enhance their performance. Our team at EW Motion Therapy loves helping dancers ensure their bodies can keep up with the demands of their sport. However, even if you decide that our physical therapy isn’t right for you, you can still learn about common dance injuries, how physical therapy can help, and how treatment plans differ for healthy and injured dancers.