Spondylolysis, a stress fracture in the lumbar vertebra known as the pars interarticularis, is a significant concern for adolescent athletes. This injury, often referred to as a pars defect or pars fracture, is prevalent among young athletes engaged in sports that involve repetitive lumbar spine motions. Early identification and treatment are crucial to prevent the progression of this condition and to ensure the athlete’s long-term spinal health.

Strength training is a cornerstone of fitness, and for many, the primary goal is to get stronger. A common belief is that simply adding more weight to your exercises will naturally increase strength. While this holds some truth, the relationship between adding weight and gaining strength is more nuanced. In this article, we’ll explore whether adding weight in the gym truly increases strength, delve into the principle of progressive overload, discuss the various factors that influence strength gains, and explain how physical therapy can be a valuable tool in your journey to becoming stronger.

Parkinson's disease is a progressive neurological disorder that affects movement and often includes motor and non-motor symptoms. Identifying early warning signs is crucial for timely diagnosis and intervention, which can significantly enhance the quality of life for those affected. While Parkinson’s can feel scary, the condition can be managed with a healthy lifestyle, physical therapy being an important part of any treatment plan. We have many LSVT Big-certified physical therapists at EW Motion Therapy, and they love helping our Parkinson’s patients improve their balance so they can move independently and safely. Even if you decide that our services don’t fit your needs, it’s important to be aware of the motor and neurological symptoms of Parkinson's, the benefits of early diagnosis, and the steps caregivers should take if they suspect a loved one might have the disease.

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.

In today's fast-paced world, maintaining a healthy lifestyle has become more critical than ever. Fitness trackers have emerged as essential tools for those seeking to monitor and improve their physical health, offering real-time data, personalized insights, and motivation. With a variety of options available, choosing the right fitness tracker can be a daunting task. Our physical therapists and personal trainers at EW Motion Therapy use a variety of fitness trackers and can provide recommendations based on your goals. Even if you decide that our services don’t fit your needs, it’s important to understand the general benefits of fitness trackers and the unique features of these popular devices so you can make an informed decision.

Golf is a sport that demands precision, balance, and a strong connection between mind and body. While much focus is often placed on the shoulders, arms, and core, the role of the hips in a golfer's performance is paramount. The hips are not just passive participants in your swing; they are the engine that drives your power, stability, and overall ability to play the game effectively. Physical therapy is often an excellent treatment option to help golfers get their hips ready to play - we love helping our golfers at EW Motion Therapy play for a lifetime. You may decide that our golf program doesn’t fit your needs, but understanding the importance of hip health can significantly enhance your performance on the course and prevent debilitating injuries that could sideline you for weeks or even months.

Dry needling has become a popular therapeutic technique in physical therapy, but a common question many potential patients have is, "Does dry needling hurt?" This is a valid concern, as the idea of needles can understandably create anxiety. Pain is indeed subjective, and everyone’s experience with dry needling can differ. However, understanding what to expect can help reduce some of this anxiety. Your physical therapist will do their best to make sure that you are comfortable throughout the entire procedure and will answer all questions you have. We prioritize patient education at EW Motion Therapy, especially when a patient is interested in dry needling. We pull from our own experience in this article, as we explore how people have described the sensation of dry needling, compare it to the pain of an injection, and discuss how physical therapists can prepare and educate patients for the procedure.

Pregnancy often comes with its own set of challenges. One such challenge that many pregnant women face is sciatica, which can present with various symptoms, sometimes including lower back pain. While sciatica is not uncommon, you can usually continue your favorite activities pain-free with a little modification. This is where physical therapy comes in - your therapist can tailor a treatment plan to help relieve sciatic pain that is safe for both you and your baby. We consider it a privilege to help our pregnant clients at EW Motion Therapy continue their favorite activities throughout pregnancy while managing pain and limitations. You may decide that our program doesn’t fit your needs, but you can still read on as we provide an overview of sciatica and explain why it is common during pregnancy. We will highlight the symptoms to watch out for, discuss general treatment options, and delve into how physical therapy can be a crucial component in managing and relieving sciatic pain.

Nutrition labels are an essential tool for anyone looking to make informed food choices. Understanding how to read these labels can help you make healthier decisions and avoid ingredients that might be detrimental to your health. If you have specific health goals in mind, a professional nutrition expert might be a great resource for you - our nutrition coaches at EW Motion Therapy love helping our clients create healthy habits and learn more about their health. You may decide that our services don’t fit your needs, but you can still read this article as we explore the history and purpose of nutrition labels, break down their essential components, highlight the most critical aspects to pay attention to, identify red-flag ingredients, and provide tips on selecting the healthiest foods.

Running is unique in the sports world for a few reasons. The only equipment you need for the sport is shoes, and there aren’t special rules you have to follow. But every runner loves the rush of seeing their dedication pay off with a new PR, better mile time, or winning a race, and they know that to improve in the sport, you have to push your body and mind to their limits.