Lower Extremity
Knee Arthritis: Does Running Really Make it Worse?
If this question was asked 20 years ago, the quick and common answer would be “YES”. Intuitively, it makes sense that running would increase arthritis. If you consider the contact of the foot on the ground, over and over, for miles and miles, the wear and tear seems probable. Luckily, research continues to find that running does NOT progress knee arthritis. For…
Read MoreFlip Flops: A Good Shoe to Wear?
Um…no. Flip flops are a “flop” when it comes to being supportive and biomechanically sound. However, I will still bust out my flip flops in the summer…to walk short distances. Seriously, flip flops should not be an everyday shoe in the warm weather. I know, I know. They are cute, make a fun sound when we walk,…
Read MorePiriformis Syndrome: It’s Not About the Tennis Ball
Here we go. I believe the common treatment protocol for piriformis syndrome is not addressing the real issue. I understand this may stir some clinical debate, but as a PT who treats the cause of pain and not the area of pain, it doesn’t make sense to just treat the piriformis muscle. Currently, stretching, manual therapy and…
Read MorePilates for Triathletes Run Part I: The Single Leg Squat
Whether you’re the occasional, recreational, or elite runner, there is one common link that should exist between all runners. It is independent of how the foot hits the ground or if the shoe is $50 or $250. It is also independent of age. The common link that should exist with all runners is: a strong, stable and efficient hip-pelvic-core complex. The parts…
Read MoreThe Squat: How Low Should You Go?
The squat is a functional movement essential to transfer our body weight down and back up through space. It allows us to hover near the ground for work in the garden, to sit down into a chair and to get us low enough to grab a pan in a bottom cabinet. It’s a great movement (and exercise) that…
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