Rotator cuff tears are common shoulder injuries. They can occur during sport activities, with any strenuous upper-extremity activity, or with falls or trauma. Tears can also be degenerative, occurring over time. Partial vs Complete Tears A partial tear is when one of the muscles that makes up your rotator cuff is worn or damaged. A […]

  Plantar fasciitis (PLAN-tur fas-e-I-tis) is one of the most common causes of heel pain. Plantar fasciitis affects people of all ages, both athletes and nonathletes. Foot anatomy The foot is made up of: 26 bones 30 joints more than 100 muscles, tendons, and ligaments These structures work together to provide support, balance, and mobility. […]

ACL Injury Risk ACL injuries are common in sports such as basketball, soccer, football, and many other sports. ACL injuries can lead to future problems for young athletes.  Besides the possibility of having to set out an entire season due to surgery and rehabilitation, ACL injuries can impact scholarship opportunities, athletic performance, academic performance, and […]

Intervertebral Discs The intervertebral discs are localized in between all the vertebrae except for the atlanto–axial and sacral vertebrae. The intervertebral discs function to allow movement of the spine, absorb shock and transmit loads through the vertebral column.    The intervertebral discs undergo wear and tear over time, no matter what we do. What is Degenerative […]

If you have surgery coming up, you probably have a long list of things to prepare before your operation.  One important thing to add to your list is scheduling an appointment at Physical Therapy Innovations’ Prehab Physical Therapy Program! Did you know that participating in physical therapy before you have knee surgery can have a positive effect on […]

  Overtraining Syndrome is a medical condition which occurs when the athlete’s stress load (exercise) becomes excessive without allowing appropriate recovery periods. Rather than positive adaptations from training, maladaptation occurs resulting in a decline in performance. Causes of Overtraining: Inadequate recovery between training sessions High intensity training over the body’s ability to adapt and recover […]

Functional Hallux Limitus (FHL) “Stiff Big Toe” Running and walking require a sufficient amount of big toe motion.  Do you have great toe motion? The first toe, also known as the great or big toe, plays a crucial role in balance and locomotion. As you push off your big toe comes up (extends). The extension […]

It seems that most people understand the benefits of performing single leg strength and stability drills. In particular, Single-Leg Roman Deadlifts (SL RDLs) are very popular with physical therapists, athletic trainers, personal trainers, as well as gym goers. This exercise is popular for targeting the hamstrings, the gluteal muscles, the gastrocs and ankle stabilizers and […]

 Physical Therapy Innovations’ Training Can Help You Return to Sport Have you had an orthopedic injury/surgery such as a knee, shoulder, elbow, or ankle injury?  Did you attend traditional physical therapy, but are not 100% after discharge?  Did your physical therapist provide you with sport specific training to prepare you for return to your sport(s)? […]

What is the Thoracic Spine? The thoracic spine makes up the middle portion of your spine.  It is responsible for most of your spinal rotation and bending. The ribs and a number of skeletal muscles attach to the thoracic spine to provide stability for your back. Mobility in your thoracic spine is essential for proper […]