Pre-hab, or pre-rehabilitation, is a program that helps patients prepare you for an upcoming surgery or reduce the risk of injury in your time of post-op . With the guidance of a therapist here at Spirit Winds, you can make important plans for the following areas: Exercise therapy : A series of exercises that can help improve strength, flexibility, and balance  Physical therapy : Learn targeted exercises and stretches to help prevent injuries or speed up recovery  Lifestyle c

When it comes to exercising most of us want to get it done and move on with our day. The same goes for physical therapy. The number one excuse why patients haven’t done their exercises is that they didn’t have time. So, if we’re all concerned about not having enough time then why not just cut out the rest periods? Rest and recovery are two very important parts of any fitness program—whether it be for personal fitness or a physical therapy program. Here are some consideration

Many of us cross our legs unconsciously during the day. One research reported that 45% of women and 21% of men cross their legs nearly all the time. There are also many ways to cross legs. We can cross our legs at the knees or cross at our ankles. But is crossing our legs actually bad for us? Let’s explore some of the thoughts behind the theories proposed for not crossing your legs. 1. Increases Blood Pressure : There have been at least seven studies performed that show

Avoiding the Pains of Travel Do you have travel plans this summer? Airport travel can be extremely stressful psychologically and physically on the body. Here are some tips to navigate the strains of being stuck in an airport while waiting for your flight to board. In the airport: Walk. If you have a long-layover, try walking more than sitting. Using fit bits or my personal favorite, “Map My Run” application, which measures not only running, but other activities such as

Some years ago, I was asked by a quite accomplished massage therapist, “How are you able to feel what you do with your hands?” My answer was very simple; “Because no one told me I couldn’t.” I admit that perhaps I had selective listening and did not hear any of the messages of “You can’t”. This message has guided me well in my practice of physical therapy with clients. The same message works with the goals and intentions we set for ourselves. When working with patients, I

If you feel intimidated by the thought of going to the doctor’s office, then you are not alone. Many consider a visit to their physician as an activity they would least want to do. However, in pursuit of wellness, a trip to the doctor is often a must. Therefore, to make the best use of your time, here are some tips for navigating a more successful visit and to ensuring that you receive the best care. First, be clear and concise in communicating your reasons for yo

Is Your Knee Being Victimized? Do you suffer from knee pains? Structural strains and damage in your knee are often caused by problems stemming from your back, foot and ankle. Your knee, by virtue of its location, often compensates for restrictions and imbalances in joints occurring above and below it. Pes planus or fallen arches of your feet cause your knees to roll inwards, thus placing additional strain on the medial (or middle) aspect of the knee. This can lead to increa

Cross-training is a sports term. It describes training parts of your body differently from the one you’ve been focusing on. An example is a runner who cross-trains by lifting weights to build strength in the upper chest and back. Personally, I’ve noticed how much stronger a dancer I am from integrating kickboxing into my weekly exercise routine; and vice versa, my kickboxing is also improved by integrating the techniques I learn from dance. You don’t need to be an athlete to

One... Two... THREE-PEAT! Thank you so much to our community of amazing clients and outstanding service team. San Luis Obispo's most loved physical therapy clinic has earned the badge of 'Best of SLO' for three years running. It makes sense that we would continue the tradition, seeing that our loyal and new clients absolutely love our brilliant new space on Laurel Lane in San Luis Obispo. If you haven't stopped by, we would love to see you! There are new classes and event

I am often questioned about which seat cushion, pillow, or shoe insert is best. There are so many wonderful as well as gimmicky products out there. Often it is difficult to promote one specific product as there are many other variables to consider. Products are typically molded with a person’s height, size, shape, and weight in mind. Since we come in all different shapes and sizes, our body types and our structural imbalances will influence how we will “mold” to for example