Intra-abdominal pressure is the pressure within the abdominal cavity created by the interaction between the abdominal wall and organs. This pressure changes with breathing and the resistance from the abdominal wall. When you are lifting an object or even lifting a limb, you increase intra-abdominal pressure.
Read MOREAs a McKenzie certified physical therapist, I work with a lot of patients experiencing neck and back pain, often exacerbated by postures held for long periods at the computer. One of the first things we address is postural correction. Sit in a relaxed posture, then pull your head up and back and chest up so you’re in an overcorrected posture, then back off about 10%.
Read MOREPelvic floor dysfunction is a prevalent health concern that can impact people of all genders and ages. While there are several approaches to address this issue, one emerging practice that takes pelvic health to a new level is called Low Pressure Fitness (LPF). As a pelvic floor physical therapist, I will often implement LPF into my plans of care...
Read MOREMany people who give birth are ‘cleared’ at either 6 or 8 weeks by their medical provider. However, there is often a lot of confusion about what exactly someone is cleared for at that early postpartum checkup. Many people have questions about when they can resume exercising and often interpret that 6 or 8 week checkup as the green light to start their pre-partum exercise routine.
Read MOREErectile dysfunction (ED) may occur anytime after the age of 20. By age 40, the prevalence increases by 10% each decade. ED can be caused organically such as vascular and neuro dysfunctions, post surgical, post trauma, hormones, and medications. ED can also be due to psychological dysfunction, age, pain-related, activities, situational, and behavior.
Read MOREThe winter holidays are a special time of year for many. They are filled with family get-togethers, delicious treats, and heart-warming traditions. For as sweet and jolly as this time of year can be, it can also be a sneaky pelvic floor saboteur! Watch out for the following things around the holidays so you can be prepared to keep your pelvic floor happy...
Read MOREPosture has always been a hot topic of conversation in the physical therapy world. When I mention that I’m a PT, people often ask about their posture and what exercises will make it better. To be honest, this is a loaded question. There’s no one simple answer. If you asked 10 physical therapists, you’d probably get 10 different answers.
Read MOREAs November arrives, we all know the holiday season is just around the corner, whether we are prepared for it or not! With the holidays come various stressors, late-night festivities, indulgent eating, and perhaps a bit too much drinking. All of these can leave us feeling less than our best. By implementing some straightforward practices, you can keep your gut in top shape and truly savor this special time of year!
Read MOREVaginal flatulence, queefing, or farting from your vagina. These are all the same thing and can take you by surprise when you're moving through a yoga class. So what is vaginal flatulence? Is it actually gas like what passes through your rectum? Short answer: vaginal flatulence is when air that is trapped in the vagina is released. It is not created by digestion but rather by air that gets trapped as we move through space.
Read MOREFecal incontinence is often considered a taboo topic, even though it is a condition that affects millions of people worldwide. This topic can be a source of embarrassment, social isolation, and decreased quality of life. But fear not. For in this blog, we are going to explore the concept of balloon training for fecal incontinence and sprinkle in a little humor, because sometimes laughter really is the best medicine.
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