Muscular
I think key elements in ACL post-rehab (after being cleared from the medical professional) would include exercise regressions/progressions and loading. Individuals are generally advised to engage in strength training approximately 6-8 months after surgery (Augustsson, 2013). I believe that regressions are an important component at such a point. If, for example, I wanted to work…
Strength training is an integral component to ACL rehab, as it enhances the stability of the joint, as well as resistance to fatigue. What is unclear, however, is when strength training (i.e., >80% 1 repetition maximum) can be implemented (Augustsson, 2013). Augustsson (2013) noted that physical therapists generally begin strength training 5-6 months post-surgery. As…
In my last 2 posts, I presented information on enhancing knee stability through improving motor control and strength of the hips. I also reviewed correlations between ankle stiffness and patellofemoral pain. In the following paragraphs, I would like to cover other complications of stiff ankles, and interventions used to improve ankle range of motion, as…
In my last post, I spoke about the need to incorporate single leg training to enhance the stability of the hip and knee musculature. In the following paragraphs, I would like to explore how distal joints and tissues may influence knee stability, as well as their implications on patellofemoral pain syndrome. Most injuries from extracurricular…
Most activities that individuals experience occur predominantly on one leg such as walking, climbing stairs, and changing direction (McCurdy, O’Kelley, Kutz, Langford, Ernest, & Torres, 2010). Considering this to be true, it would stand to reason exercise professionals acknowledge this when considering specificity of training. Pertinent questions should arise from this: if we are generally…
Valgus collapse, also known as genu valgum, can be defined as the excessive femoral adduction and internal rotation of the knees (Bliven, 2014). This condition can be seen during activities such as walking, squatting and jumping. Its etiology is thought to emanate from weak hip muscles, and is also associated with patellofemoral pain (Bolga, Malone,…
Despite the etiology of a dysfunctional piriformis, pain and muscle tenderness is a condition often associated with this deep hip muscle. If a muscle has trigger points, it will exhibit aberrant motor function, restricted range, pain and fatigue (Celik & Yeldan, 2011). Considering this information, proceeding directly to strength training and movement re-education might not…
The low back is a region often exposed to angles, loads, and sub-optimal movement patterns that lead to disc degeneration and pain. In previous posts, I shared the steps that I take to slowly rebuild my client’s movement patterns (i.e., teaching a deadlift to lift objects) followed by stabilization and endurance exercises to build capacity…
Low back pain is prevalent in more than 60% of the North American population (University of Maryland Medical Center, 2014). 85% of this number is of unknown etiology (McGill, 2007). Thus, low back pain is a common problem that many people have, including my clients. As a kinesiologist working in a post-rehabilitation setting, my job…
During the past several weeks, we have examined hyperkyphosis, its variations, and limitations placed upon individuals with the condition. We have also considered different interventions used to slow, or even reverse, hyperkyphosis. Katzman, Wanek, Shepherd and Sellmeyer (2010) provided methods of measuring hyperkyphosis. However, I would like to provide simpler methods of measurement. In a…