Physical Therapy Blog

The diaphragm is one of the most essential yet often overlooked muscles in the human body. While many are familiar with muscles like the biceps or quadriceps due to their role in movement, the diaphragm works tirelessly behind the scenes to support one of our most vital functions: breathing. In this article, we’ll explore what the diaphragm is, its role in the body—including its connection to the pelvic floor—and practical tips to ensure it functions properly.

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a complex hormonal condition that affects many aspects of health, including reproductive, metabolic, and musculoskeletal systems, as well as psychosocial and mental health. While PCOS is primarily managed through endocrinology, physical therapy can play a valuable role in alleviating musculoskeletal symptoms and improving quality of life. In this article, we’ll explore what PCOS is, the symptoms associated with the condition, how physical therapy can help, and how it fits into a broader PCOS treatment plan. With this information, you can decide whether physical therapy is a treatment option you’d like to explore further.

Receiving an osteoporosis diagnosis can feel overwhelming and even scary, but it’s also an opportunity to take proactive steps toward better bone health. In many cases, your favorite activities are still within reach - understanding the condition and taking the right actions can help mitigate its effects and improve your quality of life. This guide covers how osteoporosis is diagnosed, the practical steps to take after a diagnosis, ways to build a support system, and the initial treatment options to consider, including physical therapy.

Baseball is a sport that demands a unique combination of explosive power, precision, endurance, and resilience. Whether you’re a pitcher firing fastballs, a shortstop making quick plays, or an outfielder chasing down fly balls, strength training is a cornerstone of athletic performance and injury prevention. In this article, we’ll explore why strength training is essential for baseball players, the position-specific benefits, how to structure a sport-specific strength program for different phases of the season, and how professional guidance from physical therapy or personal training can elevate your game.

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.

The off-season is a crucial time for baseball players to rebuild, recharge, and refine their skills in preparation for the next season. It’s an opportunity to address any lingering issues, improve overall fitness, and develop key skills that might have been overlooked during the competitive season. Effective off-season training involves a balance of strength and conditioning, flexibility and mobility, skill development, and essential rest and recovery. In this article, we’ll discuss these components in depth, with a focus on how training should vary based on the player’s experience and how training shifts from the beginning of the off-season to later stages. We’ll also touch on how physical therapy can be instrumental in supporting an athlete’s health and performance.

Agility is a cornerstone of athletic performance in tennis. Defined as the ability to move quickly and change direction with precision, agility allows tennis players to react to their opponent’s shots, position themselves effectively on the court, and execute powerful strokes. Whether you’re a recreational player or competing at a professional level, agility is critical for success in this dynamic sport. This article explores how agility impacts performance, the consequences of lacking it, strategies to improve it, and how working with a personal trainer or physical therapist can enhance your game.

Golf is a sport that celebrates precision, control, and finesse rather than brute strength. For many aging golfers, the game offers not only a competitive outlet but also an opportunity for relaxation and camaraderie. However, as the body ages, maintaining the physical fitness needed for optimal performance on the golf course becomes increasingly challenging. By focusing on targeted exercises and incorporating professional guidance, you can ensure your game stays sharp for years to come.

Spinal nerve compression can lead to persistent pain, numbness, tingling, and muscle weakness, significantly impacting daily activities and quality of life. Fortunately, a range of treatment options exists to relieve symptoms and promote recovery. Physical therapy, in particular, offers a non-invasive and effective approach to managing nerve compression by improving strength, flexibility, and function.

Spinal nerve compression, often referred to as a pinched nerve, occurs when surrounding tissues place excessive pressure on a spinal nerve root. This pressure disrupts the normal function of the nerve, leading to pain, numbness, and other uncomfortable symptoms. While some cases of nerve compression are mild and may resolve on their own, others can lead to chronic discomfort, significantly impacting daily activities. Thankfully, a range of treatment options, including physical therapy, can help alleviate symptoms and restore function. We enjoy helping our patients with nerve compression at EW Motion Therapy reduce pain and improve mobility so they can return to their favorite activities. Even if you decide that our services don’t fit your needs, you can still read on to learn more about the causes of spinal nerve compression and how it affects daily life.