Upper Extremity
Rotator Cuff: “The Core” of the Shoulder
When was the last time you thought: “I think I’ll go to the gym and work on my rotator cuff.” We should think this way, but we don’t. One of the main culprits of shoulder pain is a lazy rotator cuff. We don’t see it, so we forget about it. However, this group of muscles is active…
Read MoreCarpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS): Patient follow-up at 6 months
One of the first blog posts I wrote was: Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS): Is surgery the only option? I was treating a patient at the time who was told by several people that surgery was her only option. She decided to give physical therapy a shot; one last-ditch effort before surgery. Since that time, several of you have…
Read MorePilates for Triathletes Swim Part II: Swimmer’s Shoulder
As promised, the triathlete series continues. Last month, Swim Part I was posted, emphasizing the importance of scapular stabilization for latissimus dorsi power. The post highlighted how Pilates is highly effective at training scapular awareness, stabilization and strength. This post will concentrate on the role of the rotator cuff and abdominals during the freestyle stroke. And, once again, how Pilates…
Read MorePilates for Triathletes Swim Part I: Move from the Back
This is the first post in a series entitled: Pilates for Triathletes: Swim, Bike, Run. Over the years, I have treated many triathletes and have found Pilates to be an effective cross-training tool for endurance athletes. Why? Pilates is a low impact, endurance-based strength and flexibility workout that teaches the athlete how to efficiently engage one part of…
Read MoreCarpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS): Surgery The Only Option?
Carpal tunnel syndrome is a common diagnosis and most people, medical and non-medical, think surgery is the only option for optimal recovery. Although surgery is sometimes the most appropriate intervention, it surely is not the only option. See, I have a hunch. If more people initially sought physical therapy treatment for CTS when their symptoms…
Read More