Health Blog Category: Physical Therapy
Service, Sacrifice, and Support: How We Help Veterans Heal
Independence Day is a time to celebrate our country, our freedom, and the incredible sacrifice made by the brave men and women who have served in our armed forces. While we gather with family, enjoy fireworks, and reflect on our nation’s values, it’s important to remember that many veterans return home from service with lasting physical and psychological challenges.
Sadly, not all veterans receive the care and support they need after serving. In honor of Independence Day, we want to highlight how our clinics in Midland, Freeland, and Saginaw, MI, are committed to helping veterans heal and thrive.
Read full blogBlue Collar Summer: Caring for Your Body When You Work Hard
Blue collar work takes a toll on the body—especially in the summer months!
These jobs are known for their physical demands, hands-on tasks, and hard work. But with that physical labor comes added wear and tear on the muscles, ligaments, joints, and body as a whole. While manual labor presents challenges year-round, summer adds an entirely new layer of risk.
Learn how physical labor affects the body, the most common injuries we see in blue collar workers, and how to treat and prevent them.
Read full blogWhy Physical Therapy Is So Important Post-Op
Have you ever wondered why physical therapy is such a crucial part of the recovery process after surgery—especially for procedures like hip or knee replacements? You might think, “If I got a new joint, shouldn’t everything be good to go?” The answer is no! Post-op PT is so essential to healing!
Physical therapy bridges the gap between surgery and returning to your everyday life, pain-free and fully functional.
Read full blogThe Importance of Foot Health: How To Prevent Foot Pain
A staggering 75% of Americans experience foot pain or related problems at some point in their lives. While the severity can vary, one thing is clear: foot pain can be debilitating, disrupting your daily life and routines. Not many people realize the importance of foot health!
In this blog, we’ll explore some of the most common causes of foot pain, simple tips to reduce discomfort, and natural, effective treatments to help you get back on your feet—literally.
Read full blogKeeping Your Independence As You Age- Mobility & Flexibility
Have you ever thought, “I want to live as long as humanly possible,” or “I want to be independent when I get older—I don’t want to rely on a nursing home or daily aid”? You’re not alone. Many people have these thoughts from time to time. No one wants to give up their freedom and independence as they age.
What you may not realize is that there are factors directly linked to long-term independence and quality of life.
Read full blogNaturally Treating Chronic Pain
Have you been dealing with pain that just won’t go away? Chronic pain is a widespread condition, affecting nearly 20% of adults at some point in their lives. While many people turn to pain medications for relief, these solutions are often short-term. Once the medication wears off, the pain returns—leading to a frustrating cycle that doesn’t truly solve the problem. Don’t get stuck in the endless pain-medication loop. In this blog, we’ll break down what chronic pain is, what causes it, and how you can treat it naturally and effectively.
Read full blogStaying Active With Arthritis (Without Causing Joint Pain)
Arthritis is a very common condition characterized by joint pain, stiffness, and inflammation. In fact, 1 in 5 Americans has arthritis, making it one of the leading causes of disability in the United States. Although it’s a painful and widespread condition, there are safe, natural, and effective ways to manage symptoms, reduce flare-ups, and improve daily function. Keep reading to learn about home remedies and professional treatments that may help you or someone you love find relief.
Read full blogImprove Your Golf Swing With These Tools…
Improve Your Golf Swing
It’s summer, which means it’s golf season! Whether you love hitting the greens on weekends or are gearing up for that big outing, there’s always room to improve your game. Want to drive the ball farther, sharpen your swing, and lower your score? We’ve got the tools to help you do just that.
TPI Golf Analysis
One of the most powerful tools for golfers is the TPI Golf Analysis.
Read full blogNot Sure What to Do After an Injury? Try a Free Injury Screen!
Have you ever been injured and weren’t sure what to do about it? Maybe you tweaked your shoulder, twisted your ankle, or pulled a muscle—and you were left wondering if it was serious or just something that would go away on its own. Consider getting an injury screen!
Thanks to a Michigan law called Direct Access, you can now see a physical therapist without a doctor’s referral for 21 days or 10 visits, whichever comes first.
Read full blogUnderstanding Dry Needling: Trigger Points Physical Therapy Treatment
Dry needling is a procedure that can be performed by licensed physical therapists in Michigan as part of a treatment plan to reduce pain, improve mobility, and relieve muscle tension. While often confused with acupuncture, dry needling is not the same. Acupuncture is rooted in traditional Chinese medicine. Whereas dry needling is based on modern Western medicine and focuses on targeting trigger points and muscle dysfunctions.
Read full blogUnderstanding Movement Patterns and Proper Progressions
To progress in your rehabilitation or fitness journey, it’s essential to understand why certain exercises are performed and what might be preventing you from reaching the next level. There are four primary functional exercise positions: lying on your stomach or back (prone or supine- meaning laying face up or face down), quadruped (on hands and knees), kneeling, and standing. The saying, “You need to crawl before you walk,” holds true!
Read full blogUnderstanding Low Back Pain in Golfers
Low back pain is one of the most common complaints among amateur golfers and can be such a confusing, frustrating, and debilitating issue to deal with, not only on the course but in day to day life. Back pain can occur from a multitude of factors including, but not limited to, poor golf swing mechanics, muscle imbalances, and range of motion deficits. These issues can lead to increased demand and stress being placed throughout the back and most commonly into the low back.
Read full blogNaturally Treating Shin Splints
What are Shin Splints?
Shin splints (medial tibial stress syndrome) are a common sports injury, especially in runners, volleyball players, and other athletes that run and jump frequently. This pain is usually felt along the inside edge of the tibia, more commonly known as your shin. Shin splints occur when the muscles and tendons around the bone are overworked, which can happen with increased activity levels, sudden changes in training intensity/frequency, improper footwear, or running/jumping on hard surfaces.
Read full blogThe Three R’s: Enhancing Recovery Through PT & Chiro
Physical therapy and chiropractic care play a vital role in improving pain, mobility, and strength. When combined, these treatments can accelerate the recovery process. A successful rehabilitation journey relies on the three R’s: Reset, Reinforce, and Reload. Working with the right medical team and understanding how your body moves can significantly enhance your quality of life.
Reset: The Foundation of Recovery
The Reset phase is the most crucial step in the recovery process.
Read full blogACL Surgery and Rehab
Let’s talk about anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction surgery. This is a very common injury that occurs when there are excessive forces placed on the knee joint. This is commonly seen as a non contact injury where the individual twists on a planted foot, has a hyperextension of the knee, or stops suddenly with a change of direction (seen with soccer, basketball, football). This can also be a contact injury where there is a direct blow to the knee or a falling injury where the individual lands in a way that places excessive force on the knee.
Read full blogDirect Access Physical Therapy
Before we dive into what direct access physical therapy is, let’s first define the profession of physical therapy (PT) itself.
So… what is PT? The dictionary defines PT as follows:
“Physical therapy, also known as physiotherapy, is a healthcare profession, as well as the care provided by physical therapists who promote, maintain, or restore health through patient education, physical intervention, disease prevention, and health promotion.”
That all sounds great, but what does it really mean?
Read full blogThe NEW Concussion Protocol- Physical Therapy, Active Recovery, and MORE!
Millions of people in the United States suffer from concussions each year! Despite being a well-known and common injury, many people still don’t know the safest and most effective way to recover. Follow along as we discuss concussions, the outdated method of treatment, and the new and improved concussion protocol to achieve the best recovery outcomes.
What Is A Concussion?
A concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury that occurs when the brain moves rapidly inside the skull.
Read full blogPhysical Therapy for Concussions: A Key to Faster Recovery
Concussions are a serious yet often overlooked injury that can have long-lasting effects if not properly managed. Whether from a sports-related impact, a workplace accident, or a fall, a concussion can disrupt daily life, causing headaches, dizziness, brain fog, and balance issues. Fortunately, physical therapy for concussions plays a crucial role in recovery, helping patients restore function, alleviate symptoms, and regain their quality of life.
Understanding Concussions and Their Impact
A concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury (TBI) that affects brain function.
Read full blogPhysical Therapy for Tennis Elbow
Tennis elbow, also known as lateral epicondylitis, is a common condition that affects not just athletes but anyone who performs repetitive arm motions. It occurs when the tendons in the elbow become overloaded, leading to pain and tenderness on the outside of the elbow. Physical therapy offers a proven, non-invasive approach to managing and relieving tennis elbow, helping you regain strength and functionality.
What Causes Tennis Elbow?
Tennis elbow is primarily caused by repetitive motion, often involving the wrist and arm.
Read full blogThe Winning Formula: Why Elite Athletes Rely on Teams of Care Providers
When it comes to achieving peak performance, elite athletes understand that success isn’t just about training harder or pushing limits. Behind every medal, championship, and record-breaking performance is a dedicated team of care providers working together to keep these athletes in top form. Chiropractors, massage therapists, physical therapists, and other specialists join forces to ensure athletes recover quickly, prevent injuries, and optimize their performance.
But here’s the thing—you don’t have to be a professional athlete to benefit from the same collaborative approach to care.
Read full blogPhysical Therapy for Shoulder Injuries
Shoulder injuries are a common challenge, affecting everyone from athletes engaged in overhead sports to individuals performing everyday tasks like shoveling snow during the winter months. Whether you’re dealing with a rotator cuff injury, shoulder impingement, or general stiffness and pain, physical therapy offers effective, non-invasive solutions to restore mobility and reduce discomfort.
Common Causes of Shoulder Injuries
- Overhead Sports: Activities such as baseball, tennis, swimming, and volleyball place significant stress on the shoulder’s muscles and joints.
Benefits of Chiropractic Care and Physical Therapy Together
When it comes to managing pain, recovering from injuries, or improving overall mobility, finding the most effective treatment is crucial. Two powerhouse therapies—chiropractic care and physical therapy—work exceptionally well together, offering a comprehensive approach to health. By combined care with these two services, you can achieve faster, longer-lasting results and experience holistic healing without surgery or medication.
Why Get Combined Chiropractic and Physical Therapy Care?
Read full blogPhysical Therapy for Knee Pain and Injuries
Knee pain and injuries are common complaints that affect people of all ages. From active athletes to those simply experiencing the wear and tear of daily life, knee injuries can happen to anyone. Whether it’s from sports, accidents, or age-related degeneration, knee pain can severely impact your quality of life. Fortunately, physical therapy for knee pain offers a non-invasive, effective treatment option that helps individuals recover, regain mobility, and prevent future injuries.
Read full blogHow Combining Chiropractic Care and Physical Therapy Can Provide Long-Lasting Relief
When it comes to managing chronic pain, two of the most effective treatments—chiropractic care and physical therapy—are often used separately. However, research shows that when combining chiropractic care and physical therapy, patients experience even greater relief, faster recovery, and longer-lasting results. Whether you’re dealing with chronic back pain, neck pain, or other persistent discomfort, using chiropractic care and physical therapy together can offer a powerful, holistic approach to healing.
Read full blogDry Needling: A Key to Relieving Muscle Pain and Enhancing Mobility in Physical Therapy
Dry needling is a therapeutic technique that has gained popularity in the field of physical therapy. Despite its name, dry needling does not involve any medication or injections; instead, it uses fine, sterile needles to treat myofascial pain and dysfunction. Learn how dry needling can help with muscle pain and improve range of motion!
Read full blogWorkplace Injuries and Discomfort: How Physical Therapy Can Help
Workplace discomfort and injuries are common issues that can significantly impact productivity and quality of life. Whether it’s from long hours at a desk, repetitive motions, or improper ergonomics, many workers experience pain and strain that can lead to chronic conditions. Physical therapy offers a proactive approach to managing and alleviating these problems. In this blog, we explore how physical therapy can help address workplace-related discomfort and injuries by providing personalized treatments, exercises, and ergonomic advice. Discover how you can prevent further issues and enhance your overall well-being through targeted physical therapy interventions.
Read full blogStay Active This Summer with Midland and Freeland Sports Rehab
Stay moving this summer by staying healthy, active, and injury free! At Midland Sports Rehab and Freeland Sports Rehab, our comprehensive services are designed to keep you on your feet this summer season. Don’t let pain or discomfort hold your back from enjoying all that summer has to offer.
Read full blogStrike 3: Physical Therapy for Overhead Athletes
Throwing a baseball, swinging a tennis racket, and even hitting a volleyball can all cause strain on the shoulder, elbow and wrist. These “overhead” sports can be extremely damaging in the long run, causing rotator cuff, labrum, or even elbow pain and injuries. Learn how Physical Therapy can help treat and prevent overhead injuries.
Read full blogSwing for the Fences: The Power of Physical Therapy for Baseball and Softball
Overhead sports such as baseball and softball are commonly associated with shoulder and back injuries. One tool to prevent injuries (and treat them in the event of an injury) is Physical Therapy. Personalized treatment plans can not only prevent injuries by identifying areas of weakness and imbalance, but they also can help athletes fully recover following an injury. Learn how PT is a valuable supplement for baseball and softball athletes.
Read full blogHow Tennis Players Can Resolve and Prevent Ankle Sprains
Tennis is a fast paced game which requires cutting, changing direction, and quick decision making. These movements are closely correlated to sprained ankles. Learn how to treat and prevent ankle sprains with Physical Therapy.
Read full blogHarmony in Healing: The Synergy of Massage Therapy and Physical Therapy
Learn how physical therapy and massage therapy are a dynamic duo. Improve healing, muscle health, and physical health by utilizing both therapies in harmony.
Read full blogPhysical Therapy Can Help Young Athletes Recover From Concussions
Ever wonder if there is anything you can do to help with your concussion? Learn how Physical Therapy is a great recovery tool for concussions.
Read full blogFrom Pain to Gains- How Physical Therapy Can Help You Return to Sports
Whether you’re a weekend warrior or an aspiring professional athlete, physical therapy plays a crucial role in your journey back to the playing field.
Read full blogWhy Getting Treated Often is Important
What’s so bad about longevity? Consistency, sustainability and longevity are concepts we praise in any other category except health. In fact, many tie Lebron James’s accomplishments and statistics to “Longevity” and refuse to attribute them to the GOAT argument. But because of said Longevity the argument continues and we are all here for it!
Read full blogAre You An Athlete Living With Hip, Knee, and Leg Pain?
Your hips, knees, and lower legs are tough because they have to be for your game! However, we’re all still human, and unfortunately, injuries do happen.
The hips and knees are your largest joints, supporting your body’s weight. They work in close coordination, giving us the mobility we need. Conditions such as arthritis, aging, and sports injuries can all cause problems, and before you know it, pain symptoms can flare up.
If you’re experiencing hip, knee, or leg pain, call Midland Sports Rehab and Freeland Sports Rehab to schedule a closer look.
Read full blogAre You Wearing the Proper Footwear During Squats?
Those of us concerned about maintaining a high level of fitness, from weekend warriors to professional athletes, rely on a solid set of core muscles to stabilize the body and allow us to perform at our best. Athletes are attempting to enhance their form to complete this essential activity better.
One of the essential workouts for core strength is the squat! According to renowned strength coach Mark Rippetoe, the squat is an exercise that stimulates those core muscles.
Read full blogWelcome to a More Comfortable Life: Lessen Your Hip and Knee Pain With Physical Therapy
The Natural, Long-Lasting Solution to Chronic Pain
As two of the largest joints in the human body, your hips and knees play a huge role in supporting your body’s weight and guaranteeing mobility. However, as many Americans know, pain in the hips and knees is remarkably common.
In fact, according to a study by the Centers for Disease Control, 50% of all adults reporting joint pain have issues with their knees and hips.
Read full blogAchy Joints Can be a Thing of the Past with Physical Therapy
Pain Relief is Right Around the Corner!
Do you wake up feeling rigid and aching in the morning? You may think, “Did I sleep wrong on my neck? Do I have to upgrade my mattress? ” It’s only natural for us to feel a little off from time to time when our day begins! However, if you notice that you are regularly waking up in pain, it may be time to go to a physical therapist.
Read full blogRely On the Pain-Relieving Properties of Physical Therapy- Before and After Surgery
Are You Looking to Improve the Results of Your Surgery? “Prehab” PT Can Help
Practicing with a physical therapist before your operation– sometimes referred to as “prehab,” — can help you mentally and physically prepare your body for the stress of undergoing a major surgery, and is a very wise decision for your health.
Most people know that physical therapy is commonly used as a tool for rehabilitation after surgery or major strain to the body.
Read full blog3 Ways Physical Therapy Can Provide Pain Relief- Without the Use of Opioids
Have You Been Looking for a Drug-Free, Natural Solution to Chronic Pain?
Do you feel anxious or unnerved by the idea of relying solely on drugs for pain management for the foreseeable future? If so, those worries and fears are completely valid, especially if the drugs in question are opioids. After trying NSAIDs or steroids without feeling relief, many individuals with chronic pain can feel that they have no choice but to turn to more powerful opioids.
Read full blogHave You Heard of Pre-Hab? Chances Are, You Could Benefit!
Everything You Need to Know About Pre-Hab
It’s no secret that undergoing physical therapy after an injury or surgery will help you heal faster. But what if there was a way to avoid injury and prevent surgical intervention in the first place? Pre-hab or preventive rehabilitation allows patients to heal better following surgery, speed up the healing process and, in many cases, avoid injury in the first place. Contact our office today to meet with a physical therapist.
Read full blogAre You Waking up in Pain? Your Mattress Might Be the Reason Why
Your Sleeping Situation Impacts Your Health More Than You Might Think
Imagine gently waking up after 8 hours of sleep. You should feel rested and ready to start your day, right? But when you move to sit up you are suddenly struck with an intense backache.
Pain in your shoulders and neck quickly follows as you move and is soon accompanied by a dull ache in your hips and legs when you stand.
Read full blogDitch the Drugs Today and Say Yes to Physical Therapy Instead!
Living with Pain? Medication Isn’t Always the Answer!
It seems like every time you turn on the tv, there’s another report about the opioid crisis in the country. There’s a legitimate reason to panic. In 2016 alone, 116 people died every day from overdoses of opioid-related medications. About 11,5 million Americans used prescription painkillers in some way, losing an estimated $504 million in economic costs.
Some researchers also feel that many people who would otherwise be willing to work are sidelined because a drug test would fail.
Read full blog