Athletes and fitness enthusiasts alike know that recovery is just as important as training. Enter Normatec lower body compression therapy—a game-changing tool designed to help your body recover faster, reduce soreness, and improve performance.

What is Normatec Compression? Normatec compression therapy uses dynamic air compression to massage your legs, and hips. The system consists of boots that wrap around your legs and a control unit that inflates and deflates the chambers, simulating the natural muscle pump of your body. This helps flush out metabolic waste, reduce swelling, and improve circulation.
How Does it Work? Normatec’s patented Pulse Technology mimics the body’s natural processes by applying sequential, pulsing compression to your legs and lower body. This rhythmic massage increases blood flow, delivers oxygen to muscles, and accelerates the removal of lactic acid, which can cause soreness. It’s especially beneficial after high-intensity workouts or long endurance activities.
Key Benefits

1. Faster Recovery: By improving circulation and reducing inflammation, Normatec helps your muscles recover more quickly from intense exercise or injury.
2. Reduced Soreness: Compression therapy helps to alleviate muscle stiffness and soreness, allowing you to feel fresh and ready for your next workout.
3. Enhanced Performance: Regular use of Normatec can improve muscle flexibility and range of motion, contributing to better athletic performance.
4. Injury Prevention: By promoting better blood flow and reducing muscle fatigue, Normatec can help prevent overuse injuries that often occur in sports.

Who Can Benefit? Whether you’re a professional athlete, a weekend warrior, or someone simply looking to improve recovery, Normatec lower body compression can make a noticeable difference. It’s especially popular among runners, cyclists, weightlifters, and anyone who experiences soreness or stiffness in their legs after exercise. Even those with sedentary jobs or circulatory issues find relief from swelling and discomfort with Normatec.

How to Use Normatec with Us. Most sessions last between 15-30 minutes, depending on your needs. You can add it to your stretch session, or come in just for the compression. It’s the perfect recovery tool to use post-workout, after a long day on your feet, or even during travel.

​Normatec lower body compression is a powerful tool for anyone looking to recover faster, reduce soreness, and enhance overall performance. Whether you’re training for a marathon or just trying to keep up with your fitness routine, incorporating Normatec into your recovery can take your performance to the next level. Give your legs the recovery they deserve and experience the benefits for yourself!

In the world of sports and fitness, the focus often centers around training intensity, endurance, and skill development. While these elements are undeniably crucial, one key aspect that sometimes doesn't get the attention it deserves is recovery. Proper recovery treatment is not just about feeling better after a workout; it plays a vital role in reducing the risk of sports injuries and ensuring long-term athletic performance. Let's delve into why recovery treatment is so essential for athletes and active individuals.
1. Muscle Repair and Growth When you engage in physical activity, especially intense or prolonged exercise, your muscles experience microscopic tears. These tears are a natural part of muscle growth and strength development. However, without adequate recovery, these tears can accumulate, leading to overuse injuries. Recovery treatments like rest, massage, and proper nutrition provide the necessary conditions for muscles to repair and grow stronger, reducing the risk of injury.
2. Reduced Muscle Soreness and Fatigue Delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) is a common experience after intense workouts. While some level of soreness is normal, excessive or prolonged soreness can hinder your ability to train effectively. Recovery techniques such as stretching, foam rolling, and ice baths help reduce muscle soreness and fatigue, allowing you to return to your training regimen more quickly and safely.
3. Improved Flexibility and Range of Motion Stiff and tight muscles are more prone to injuries. Incorporating stretching and mobility exercises into your recovery routine can improve flexibility and range of motion. This not only enhances performance but also helps in preventing strains, sprains, and other injuries that can result from restricted movement.
4. Enhanced Blood Flow and Circulation Effective recovery treatments like massage, compression therapy, and active recovery exercises boost blood flow and circulation. Improved circulation helps deliver oxygen and essential nutrients to tired muscles while removing metabolic waste products. This accelerates the healing process and reduces the risk of inflammation and injury.
5. Mental Relaxation and Stress Reduction Athletic performance is as much mental as it is physical. High levels of physical exertion can lead to mental fatigue and stress, which in turn can affect your focus and decision-making abilities. Recovery treatments such as yoga, meditation, and adequate sleep help alleviate mental stress, promoting a calm and focused mind that is less prone to making mistakes that could lead to injuries.
6. Injury Prevention and Longevity Regular recovery practices contribute significantly to injury prevention. By ensuring that your muscles, joints, and connective tissues are well-maintained, you reduce the likelihood of acute injuries and chronic conditions. Consistent recovery helps in maintaining the structural integrity of your body, allowing you to pursue athletic activities for many years without undue risk.
7. Optimal Performance Ultimately, recovery is about optimizing performance. An athlete who prioritizes recovery can train harder, perform better, and achieve their goals more efficiently. Overtraining without adequate recovery leads to diminished returns and increased injury risk, whereas balanced training and recovery maximize your potential and keep you on a path to continuous improvement.
Key Recovery Treatments To fully harness the benefits of recovery, consider incorporating the following treatments into your routine:

• Rest and Sleep: Ensure you get sufficient sleep and rest days to allow your body to recover naturally.
• Stretching and Mobility Exercises: Regularly stretch and perform exercises that enhance your flexibility.
• Massage Therapy: Utilize professional massages or self-massage tools like foam rollers to relieve muscle tension.
• Hydration and Nutrition: Maintain proper hydration and consume a balanced diet to support muscle repair and overall health.
• Compression Therapy: Use compression garments or devices to improve blood flow and reduce muscle swelling.
• Active Recovery: Engage in low-intensity activities like walking or swimming to promote blood circulation without straining your muscles.

Recovery treatment is not a luxury but a necessity for anyone serious about sports and fitness. By prioritizing recovery, you not only enhance your immediate performance but also ensure long-term athletic health and resilience. Incorporating effective recovery strategies into your routine can make a significant difference in reducing sports injuries and sustaining a high level of performance over time. So, the next time you plan your training schedule, remember to allocate ample time for recovery—it’s an investment in your athletic future.

What is Diagnostic MSK Ultrasound? Diagnostic MSK Ultrasound is a non-invasive imaging technique that uses high-frequency sound waves to produce detailed images of muscles, tendons, ligaments, joints, and other soft tissues. Unlike MRI, which uses powerful magnets and radio waves, ultrasound technology relies on sound waves, making it a safer and more accessible option for many patients.

How Does It Work?

1. Sound Wave Transmission: A small handheld device called a transducer emits high-frequency sound waves into the body.
2. Echo Reception: These sound waves bounce off tissues and are captured by the transducer.
3. Image Formation: A computer processes the sound wave data to create real-time images displayed on a monitor.
4. Dynamic Assessment: Because the ultrasound provides real-time imaging, clinicians can observe the movement of muscles and joints, enhancing the assessment of functional and dynamic conditions.

Advantages of Diagnostic MSK Ultrasound

1. Real-Time Imaging: Allows for dynamic assessments, making it ideal for evaluating movement-related conditions.
2. Non-Invasive and Safe: No radiation exposure, making it safer for repeated use.
3. Immediate Results: Provides instant feedback, which is beneficial for immediate diagnosis and treatment planning.
4. Portable and Accessible: Equipment is portable and can be used in various settings, including clinics and bedside evaluations.
5. Cost-Effective: Significantly less expensive than MRI.

Cost-Saving BenefitsOne of the most compelling advantages of Diagnostic MSK Ultrasound is its potential to save thousands of dollars by replacing MRI imaging in many scenarios. Here’s how:

1. Lower Procedure Costs: An MRI scan can cost anywhere from $1,000 to $4,000, depending on the body part and facility. In contrast, an MSK ultrasound typically costs between $100 and $500.
2. Reduced Wait Times: MRI machines are often in high demand, leading to long wait times. Ultrasound equipment is more widely available and can often be scheduled much sooner.
3. Decreased Need for Multiple Appointments: The real-time imaging capability of ultrasound allows for immediate assessment and diagnosis, potentially reducing the need for follow-up appointments and additional testing.
4. Fewer Ancillary Costs: MRI procedures often involve additional costs such as sedation, contrast agents, and specialized radiologist fees. Ultrasound generally does not require these extras.
5. Avoidance of Unnecessary Imaging: In many cases, MSK ultrasound can provide sufficient diagnostic information, eliminating the need for a more expensive MRI.

When is Diagnostic MSK Ultrasound Appropriate?While MRI remains essential for certain conditions, MSK ultrasound is highly effective for diagnosing a wide range of musculoskeletal issues, including:

• Tendonitis and tendinopathies
• Ligament sprains and tears
• Muscle strains and tears
• Joint effusions
• Bursitis
• Nerve entrapments

ConclusionDiagnostic MSK Ultrasound is a powerful tool in the evaluation and management of musculoskeletal conditions. Its real-time imaging capabilities, safety, accessibility, and cost-effectiveness make it a valuable alternative to MRI in many cases. By opting for MSK ultrasound when appropriate, patients and healthcare providers can save thousands of dollars while still receiving accurate and timely diagnoses. As technology continues to advance, the role of ultrasound in musculoskeletal imaging is poised to expand, offering even greater benefits to patients and the healthcare system as a whole.
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If you’re experiencing musculoskeletal pain or dysfunction, consider discussing the option of Diagnostic MSK Ultrasound with Dr. Ray. It might be the cost-effective, efficient solution you need.

The Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) credential, offered by the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA), is valuable for physical therapists because:

1. Enhanced Expertise: Provides advanced knowledge in strength training and conditioning, improving rehabilitation outcomes.
2. Holistic Care: Facilitates a comprehensive approach to patient care, addressing overall fitness and injury prevention.
3. Professional Growth: Demonstrates commitment to continuing education and enhances career opportunities.
4. Collaboration: Enables effective teamwork with fitness and sports professionals.
5. Performance Improvement: Helps design programs that enhance athletic performance and aid recovery.

​Diagnostic musculoskeletal (MSK) ultrasound is a non-invasive imaging technique used to visualize muscles, tendons, ligaments, joints, and soft tissues in real-time. It helps diagnose a variety of conditions, such as tears, strains, inflammation, and other musculoskeletal disorders. The procedure is safe, quick, and effective, providing detailed images that aid in accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.

Do you find yourself leaking urine during activities like coughing, sneezing, or exercising? Are you experiencing unexpected leaks on your way to the bathroom or struggling to make it in time? Does it feel like your bladder is dictating your every move, leaving you constantly searching for a restroom? Are nighttime trips to the bathroom disrupting your sleep, or are you encountering difficulties starting the flow or experiencing bladder pains?
You don't have to suffer anymore. Our Pelvic PT team is here to provide the support and solutions you need to reclaim control over your bladder health. Say goodbye to discomfort and inconvenience—let us help you live your life with confidence and ease.

Don't have any issues?? Here are some bladder tips to keep it that way!

Stay Hydrated with Water: Drinking an adequate amount of water is essential for overall bladder health. Proper hydration helps flush out toxins and bacteria that can contribute to bladder issues. Aim to drink half your body weight in oz of water per day, or adjust based on individual needs and activity levels.

Practice Healthy Bathroom Habits: Establishing regular and healthy bathroom habits can contribute to bladder health. Avoid holding in urine for extended periods. Additionally, take your time, and fully emptying your bladder during each bathroom visit.

Maintain a Balanced Diet: Consuming a well-balanced diet with adequate fiber can help prevent constipation, which can contribute to bladder issues. Certain irritants, such as caffeine, alcohol, and acidic foods, may exacerbate bladder symptoms, pay attention to your body's reactions and consider minimizing these triggers if you experience bladder sensitivity.​

In today's world, where personal safety can often feel uncertain, empowering oneself with the knowledge of self-defense is more crucial than ever, especially for women. The unfortunate reality is that women face a disproportionate risk of physical violence and harassment. In such a landscape, the ability to defend oneself becomes not just a skill but a necessity.

Here are a few compelling reasons why every woman should consider learning self-defense:

1. Personal Safety: Knowing self-defense techniques provides women with the means to protect themselves in potentially dangerous situations. Whether it's a late-night walk home, a solo travel adventure, or even just navigating everyday spaces, having the confidence to defend oneself can make all the difference.
2. Confidence Boost: Learning self-defense isn't just about physical techniques; it's also about mental strength and confidence. Knowing that you have the ability to protect yourself can boost self-esteem and empower you to assert boundaries in various aspects of life.
3. Prevention and Awareness: Self-defense training often includes lessons on situational awareness and risk assessment. Women who undergo such training become more attuned to their surroundings, recognizing potential threats before they escalate. This proactive approach can help prevent dangerous situations from occurring in the first place.
4. Breaking Stereotypes: Traditionally, women have been portrayed as the weaker sex, perpetuating the notion that they are easy targets for violence. Learning self-defense challenges these stereotypes, demonstrating that women are capable of defending themselves and refusing to be victims.
5. Community and Support: Participating in self-defense classes can foster a sense of community among women. Sharing experiences, learning together, and supporting one another in the journey towards empowerment creates a supportive network that extends beyond the classroom.

In recognition of the importance of women's safety and empowerment, initiatives offering self-defense classes specifically tailored to women have gained popularity. These classes not only teach practical techniques but also create a safe space for women to learn and grow together.
Ultimately, self-defense is about more than just physical prowess; it's about reclaiming control over one's own safety and autonomy. Every woman deserves to feel empowered and capable of protecting herself. By investing in self-defense training, women equip themselves with invaluable skills that can have a profound impact on their lives.

So, let's take a stand, empower ourselves, and make personal safety a priority. Join us on June 22nd 9am for our Class!

Belle, a highly skilled Licensed Massage Therapist and certified Medical Massage Practitioner, is committed to guiding individuals towards realizing their ultimate bodywork aspirations. With a profound dedication to her craft, she goes beyond mere technique, delving into a personalized journey with each client to unlock their fullest potential and achieve holistic well-being. Known for Hip Flexor Release, Craniosacral Therapy and Trauma Massage.

Michelle, boasts an illustrious career spanning over 18 years. Her wealth of experience encompasses a diverse clientele, ranging from professional athletes to the elderly, where she discovered a profound affinity for the medical aspect of massage therapy. Throughout her extensive journey, Michelle has emerged as a specialist in aiding individuals on the path to recovery from injuries and overworked muscles. Known for managing Headaches, Neck and Shoulder pain, Craniosacral Therapy and Deep Tissue.

Robert, brings an impressive 9 years of massage therapy experience to our team. Roberto's passion lies in addressing body dysfunction, and he has undergone advanced training in both head and neck as well as lower body techniques. Whether you're an athlete or someone grappling with tension, Roberto is dedicated to helping you experience a profound sense of well-being. Your journey to feeling better starts here with Roberto's expertise. Known for helping reset your body with Sports Massage, Cupping and Deep Tissue.

Benefits of Stretch Therapy:
Increased Flexibility: Assisted stretching enhances flexibility and range of motion, aiding in daily movements and sports performance.
Reduced Muscle Tension: It alleviates tightness, promoting relaxation and reducing soreness.
Enhanced Relaxation and Stress Reduction: It induces relaxation, releases endorphins, and reduces stress levels.
Improved Circulation: Assisted stretching enhances blood flow, aiding in muscle recovery and overall muscle health.
Mind-Body Connection: Assisted stretching promotes mindfulness, reducing stress and fostering well-being.

1. Vestibular Rehabilitation: Vestibular rehabilitation is a specialized form of physical therapy designed to address problems with the vestibular system, which is responsible for maintaining balance and spatial orientation. Our PTs conduct a thorough assessment to identify specific vestibular deficits and develop a personalized treatment plan.
2. Canalith Repositioning Maneuvers: Certain types of vertigo, such as benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), are caused by displaced calcium carbonate crystals (otoconia) in the inner ear. PT may involve canalith repositioning maneuvers, such as the Epley maneuver or the Semont maneuver, to reposition these crystals and alleviate symptoms.
3. Balance Training: Balance exercises are a key component of physical therapy for vertigo. These exercises help improve proprioception (awareness of body position) and strengthen muscles involved in maintaining balance. Balance training may include activities such as standing on unstable surfaces, walking on a balance beam, or performing specific movements to challenge equilibrium.
4. Gaze Stabilization Exercises: Vertigo can disrupt visual stability, leading to symptoms such as nystagmus (involuntary eye movements) and difficulty focusing. Gaze stabilization exercises involve training the eyes to maintain focus on a target while the head is moving, which helps reduce dizziness and improve visual function.
5. Habituation Exercises: Habituation exercises aim to desensitize the vestibular system to movements or positions that provoke vertigo symptoms. By gradually exposing patients to these triggers in a controlled manner, habituation exercises can reduce sensitivity and improve tolerance to vertigo-inducing stimuli.
6. Education and Lifestyle Modifications: Physical therapists provide education about vertigo triggers, strategies to minimize symptoms, and lifestyle modifications to promote recovery. This may include advice on proper body mechanics, posture, dietary considerations, and modifications to daily activities to reduce the risk of exacerbating vertigo.
7. Home Exercise Program: A comprehensive physical therapy program often includes a home exercise program to reinforce the gains made during therapy sessions and promote long-term management of vertigo symptoms. Patients are taught specific exercises and techniques to perform independently to maintain vestibular function and prevent recurrence of symptoms.

Overall, physical therapy is an effective and non-invasive approach to managing vertigo, helping patients regain their balance, reduce dizziness, and improve their quality of life. It's important for individuals experiencing vertigo to consult with a healthcare professional, such as a physical therapist or an otolaryngologist, to receive an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment recommendations tailored to their specific needs.

Have you ever experienced Vertigo? Tell us your story

​Diastasis recti is a condition characterized by the separation of the rectus abdominis muscles, which are the muscles that run vertically down the front of your abdomen. Normally, these muscles are joined together by connective tissue at the midline of the body. However, during pregnancy or due to other factors such as obesity, improper lifting techniques, or certain exercises, the connective tissue between the rectus abdominis muscles may become stretched and weakened, leading to a separation of the muscles.
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Diastasis recti is common during and after pregnancy, as the growing uterus can put pressure on the abdominal muscles and cause them to separate. It can also occur in men and women who are overweight or engage in activities that place excessive strain on the abdominal muscles.
Some common symptoms of diastasis recti include:

1. A bulge or ridge in the middle of the abdomen, especially when engaging the abdominal muscles.
2. Lower back pain.
3. Weakness or instability in the core muscles.
4. Digestive issues or urinary incontinence in severe cases.

Physical therapy (PT) can be very helpful in managing diastasis recti. Here's how PT can help:

1. Targeted exercises: our team designs a customized exercise program to strengthen the deep core muscles, including the transverse abdominis, pelvic floor muscles, and obliques. These exercises focus on improving the stability and support of the abdominal area, helping to reduce the separation between the rectus abdominis muscles.
2. Proper body mechanics: PT can teach proper body mechanics and lifting techniques to prevent further strain on the abdominal muscles. This is particularly important during activities such as lifting heavy objects or during exercise routines.
3. Breathing techniques: Learning proper breathing techniques can help improve the function of the deep core muscles and provide better support to the abdominal area. Diaphragmatic breathing, in particular, can help engage the transverse abdominis muscles and promote better core stability.
4. Manual therapy: In some cases, manual therapy techniques such as massage or myofascial release may be used to address tightness or restrictions in the abdominal muscles and surrounding tissues. This can help improve flexibility and reduce discomfort associated with diastasis recti.
5. Education and lifestyle modifications: PT can provide education about lifestyle modifications that can support the healing process, such as avoiding activities that exacerbate the condition and maintaining proper posture throughout the day.
6. Visceral Manipulation: external treatment of the bowels over the abdominal tissue can significantly improve the separation in as few as 2-4  sessions. 

Overall, physical therapy plays a crucial role in the management of diastasis recti by addressing muscle imbalances, promoting proper alignment and movement patterns, and facilitating the healing process of the abdominal muscles. It's important to consult with a healthcare professional, such as a physical therapist or physician, for an accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plan.