https://www.sapphirephysicaltherapy.com/blog daily 0.75 2025-12-01 https://www.sapphirephysicaltherapy.com/blog/from-rehab-to-recovery-a-typical-day-at-sapphire-pt monthly 0.5 2025-11-17 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/b1067085-788a-4e66-88ac-16d3c7da932f/Sunrise.png Blog - From Rehab to Recovery: A Typical Day at Sapphire PT - As the last patient leaves, the clinic quiets down. Therapists finish documentation, review progress notes, and update plans for upcoming sessions. Equipment is cleaned and rooms are reset for the next day. Team members reflect on the day’s wins: patients achieving milestones, improved function, and small daily successes. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/83d497db-7d2d-4296-9d2e-9a69e87aafb2/SHLD.jpeg Blog - From Rehab to Recovery: A Typical Day at Sapphire PT - A patient experiences shoulder pain after a weekend of yard work. Andrew guides strengthening for both large back muscles and small rotator cuff stabilizers. They discuss practical modifications for daily activities and work tasks to reduce strain. Functional movements — reaching, lifting, and carrying — are tailored to the patient’s lifestyle and goals. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/f07d4feb-dfca-43b1-a656-85989817b4d7/FD.jpeg Blog - From Rehab to Recovery: A Typical Day at Sapphire PT - The lights flick on, the front doors open, and the day begins. Our support staff reviews the day’s schedule, checks new patient paperwork, and ensures all therapy rooms, treatment tables, and equipment are ready. Therapists arrive, greet each other, review notes, and get focused and energized to help patients move and feel their best. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/ee9fa951-5549-4a85-ada5-048fbe1a9ec4/HHD.jpeg Blog - From Rehab to Recovery: A Typical Day at Sapphire PT - We begin the day with a patient in for knee rehab progress testing. Ben measures strength using the handheld dynamometer (shown here), range of motion, balance, and functional tasks — like hopping. Using evidence-based assessments, the patient’s tailored plan is updated to reflect progress and outline next steps. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1fa13751-c422-4a6d-a281-456d1a57a561/Jump.jpg Blog - From Rehab to Recovery: A Typical Day at Sapphire PT - An athlete works on return-to-sport training. Agility ladders, cones, dynamic movement drills, plyometrics, and balance tools are used. Cutting, jumping, deceleration, and sport-specific movements are tested. All are done with the goal of bridging the gap from rehab to high-level performance. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/fec1ce29-828d-450b-ad99-b59878d77f52/DN.jpeg Blog - From Rehab to Recovery: A Typical Day at Sapphire PT - Next, a session focuses on spinal pain and mobility. Jesse uses manual therapy techniques, soft-tissue mobilization, joint mobilizations, and integrated dry needling (what’s shown in the photo). Following manual therapy, the patient performs targeted movement drills, stretching, and strengthening exercises. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/f6ea1802-c14b-4d90-bbc1-a311e295d5a4/PF.jpeg Blog - From Rehab to Recovery: A Typical Day at Sapphire PT - A new patient arrives for pelvic floor physical therapy. With Aly, they discuss symptoms, history, and goals in addition to postpartum recovery, leakage, pelvic pain, or core weakness. Full-body screen assesses breathing, hip, core, and pelvic floor strength, and system tolerance to impact. Pelvic floor muscle assessment is performed lying down and in standing to evaluate coordination, tension, and strength. A personalized plan is then created including education, at-home strategies, and initial exercises. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/dcc78b20-6ab0-4b49-b101-c0b6072a5016/Orthotics.jpg Blog - From Rehab to Recovery: A Typical Day at Sapphire PT - A patient arrives for custom foot orthotics. John scans their feet using 3D digital technology (Amfit). Gait, foot posture, and movement patterns are also assessed. Orthotics are fabricated and adjusted on-site. Patient will later try orthotics in shoes; adjustments are then made for fit, comfort, and alignment. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/7171c8b2-334a-4680-a902-25728442d316/Hip.jpeg Blog - From Rehab to Recovery: A Typical Day at Sapphire PT - A patient begins rehab for hip pain. Mobility exercises are provided to improve hip range of motion and feelings of stiffness. Strength training helps the patient regain confidence with day-to-day activities and work toward getting back to hiking. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/25d631f6-8e4a-44b5-ad36-4276fdee4d55/RunningAnalysisPhoto+1.jpg Blog - From Rehab to Recovery: A Typical Day at Sapphire PT A runner comes in for a gait analysis. We set up 2D video cameras and RunScribe sensors to capture multiple angles on the treadmill. John reviews footage frame-by-frame, identifies inefficiencies, provides cues, and re-tests. A customized strength and movement program is created to correct deficits and optimize performance. https://www.sapphirephysicaltherapy.com/blog/4-quad-strengthening-exercises-to-keep-your-legs-strong-this-winter monthly 0.5 2025-11-03 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1d63109d-f974-4964-9f92-302f53ebbc55/Bulgarian+Collage.png Blog - 4 Quad Strengthening Exercises to Keep Your Legs Strong This Winter - How to do it: Stand about two feet in front of a low chair, couch, or bench. Place the top of one foot on the surface behind you. Lower your body until your front thigh is nearly parallel to the floor. Push through the front foot to return to standing. Tip: To find a comfortable distance from the chair, start by sitting on the chair, extending the lead leg out with a slight bend in the knee, then stand resulting in a staggered stance. This will consistently place you at a good distance from the surface. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/717e3b7e-3881-4650-9e98-dffe2d588601/Wall+sit.jpg Blog - 4 Quad Strengthening Exercises to Keep Your Legs Strong This Winter - How to do it: Stand with your back flat against a wall and feet shoulder-width apart. Slide down until your knees are bent to a challenging, but comfortable position. Hold this position while keeping your knees aligned with your toes. Tip: Add a weight on your lap or in your hands to increase the difficulty. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/7506ce0d-d1b9-4f8c-844b-4f10c2e9459e/Step+down+collage.png Blog - 4 Quad Strengthening Exercises to Keep Your Legs Strong This Winter - How to do it: Stand on a step or low box with one foot on the edge and the other hanging off. Slowly lower the hanging foot toward the ground by bending the stance knee. Lightly tap the floor with your toe or heel without resting. Push through the stance leg to return to the starting position. Tip: Use the bottom stair and handrail for balance support. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/2caf6662-42be-4c0f-8aef-c0c4f83340ce/spanish+squat+collage.png Blog - 4 Quad Strengthening Exercises to Keep Your Legs Strong This Winter - How to do it: Anchor a thick resistance band or sturdy strap around knee height to a secure object behind you. Step inside the loop so the band sits behind your knees. Step backward until the band has tension pulling you forward. Squat down while leaning slightly back against the band, keeping your shins vertical and chest tall. Push through your heels to stand tall. Tip: If you don’t have a band available, try using the front of a fixed, padded chair or couch for support. Make sure the object is fixed and won’t move. https://www.sapphirephysicaltherapy.com/blog/lets-talk-about-falling monthly 0.5 2025-09-03 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1756924102768-8TYT40B8753T3BR4F51A/Balance.png Blog - Let’s Talk About Fall(ing)! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1756924114376-CCKHUCGGO732FWGREUA1/Balance+2.png Blog - Let’s Talk About Fall(ing)! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1756924128373-K334W2MREI7PLGLI0LSZ/Balance+3.png Blog - Let’s Talk About Fall(ing)! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1756923906788-T4KQNQGBXDW058X19T4K/Step+up.png Blog - Let’s Talk About Fall(ing)! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1756923916355-HYOIMN077VOOX4Q57DA2/Bridge.png Blog - Let’s Talk About Fall(ing)! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1756923924874-4B5BT3C64N3NGWI0A50C/Squat.png Blog - Let’s Talk About Fall(ing)! https://www.sapphirephysicaltherapy.com/blog/heart-rate-variability-hrv-and-recovery monthly 0.5 2025-09-03 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/0d78b2bc-b680-4dea-a5ea-8690da27e518/Garmin+screen.png Blog - Heart Rate Variability (HRV) and Recovery - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1756921028124-3C79NH9YNV4NE269ZZZM/Ben+Run+photo.jpg Blog - Heart Rate Variability (HRV) and Recovery https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1756921120046-XQ3AAJ28RYLSZE5BKQX7/Aly%2Brun%2Bphoto.png Blog - Heart Rate Variability (HRV) and Recovery https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/c607e0de-7b5e-4b30-b31e-e0c927c4d90f/HRV+photo.png Blog - Heart Rate Variability (HRV) and Recovery - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/0163f805-52d2-4062-b483-173f13b9b8b5/HRV+age.png Blog - Heart Rate Variability (HRV) and Recovery - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.sapphirephysicaltherapy.com/blog/shoulder-pain-in-summer-here39s-why-it-happensand-what-you-can-do-about-it monthly 0.5 2025-09-03 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1752008124753-93AKIKBOIS8216PH48JD/ER.jpg Blog - Shoulder Pain in Summer? Here’s Why It Happens—and What You Can Do About It https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1752008135338-MQOY35VNI4O5FRDMNJNY/IR.jpg Blog - Shoulder Pain in Summer? Here’s Why It Happens—and What You Can Do About It https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1752008149495-UZ33S42KR6BX45OA08N9/ABD.jpg Blog - Shoulder Pain in Summer? Here’s Why It Happens—and What You Can Do About It https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1752008159676-5IRNVHF9JIW3ERFNHY05/rows.jpg Blog - Shoulder Pain in Summer? Here’s Why It Happens—and What You Can Do About It https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/6ec040e6-62d4-41e7-898f-b8f1f61f2797/RTC+Anatomy.jpg Blog - Shoulder Pain in Summer? Here’s Why It Happens—and What You Can Do About It - Make it stand out Image from sciatica.org/other-diagnoses/rotator-cuff-syndrome/ https://www.sapphirephysicaltherapy.com/blog/guidelines-for-physical-activity-its-for-more-than-just-your-muscles--n6hb4 monthly 0.5 2025-11-03 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/d138fe2b-3a1a-4aec-a866-9f3a9e2055d6/Rating-of-Perceived-Exertion-Scale.jpeg Blog - Guidelines for physical activity? It’s for more than just your muscles ... - 3) Perceived Exertion This is your best guess at gauging how hard you are working on a scale of 1-10(4). On this scale, 10 represents your maximum effort and 1 is sitting on the couch. This turns out to be pretty accurate way to determine intensity and doesn’t require any fancy gadgets. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/89caca09-7d4f-4d39-a1d2-874e86643648/microphone.jpg Blog - Guidelines for physical activity? It’s for more than just your muscles ... - 2) Talk Test While exercising, if you can maintain a brief conversation but are unable to sing, you are likely working at a moderate intensity. If you’re carrying on a casual conversation, it is probably time to step up the pace (3). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/78329151-9e04-43e4-94fc-6a7f21dfbd28/heartbeat.jpg Blog - Guidelines for physical activity? It’s for more than just your muscles ... - 1) Heart Rate (HR Monitoring) Using an activity tracker, you can monitor your heart rate during activity to determine intensity. Moderate intensity exercise is typically around 64%-76% of your Max HR. For vigorous activity, shoot for 77%-93% your max HR. A quick way to estimate your max HR is to take 220- your age (3). For example, if you are 40 years old, your estimated max HR would be 180 bpm, give or take a couple. https://www.sapphirephysicaltherapy.com/blog/exercise-and-manual-therapy-to-manage-headaches-cm5bn monthly 0.5 2025-05-05 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/6e490c71-dbad-4341-80ce-c808af9e4fd2/Upper+Cervical+Nods.jpg Blog - Exercise and Manual Therapy to Manage Headaches - Make it stand out Upper Cervical Nods https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1676339880000-Z9406V6G9SGW4QAII72D/Rows+1.png Blog - Exercise and Manual Therapy to Manage Headaches https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1676339945955-DL749V263Q8CMN1M3484/Rows+2.png Blog - Exercise and Manual Therapy to Manage Headaches https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/36856c55-1cf1-4319-b83b-f35018c148e3/Scapular.jpg Blog - Exercise and Manual Therapy to Manage Headaches - Scapular retraction and depression Scapular retraction and depression https://www.sapphirephysicaltherapy.com/blog/strength-training-has-many-forms monthly 0.5 2025-03-17 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1742251523999-9ZXOE6KWBSKDHNELAP44/John+Jump+1.jpg Blog - Strength Training Has Many Forms https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1742251561243-X5WVFKRXER2I1S8TYRHG/John+Jump+2.jpg Blog - Strength Training Has Many Forms https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1742250159885-XEP3W6P9CYQ8DEFOEUVU/Aly+Deadlift.png Blog - Strength Training Has Many Forms https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1742250305275-V4XBRVP1OXLLPCCCIPP6/Magen+Squat.png Blog - Strength Training Has Many Forms https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1724074966261-V1F17K0EJSIM2XBSYKTT/Rut+2.png Blog - Strength Training Has Many Forms - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1733170631740-WI6YKVAAUBI7OF4U47MK/Y+Bal+1.gif Blog - Strength Training Has Many Forms https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1733170652937-WMS81PWZA8ARWORQFFW0/Y+bal+2.gif Blog - Strength Training Has Many Forms https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1733170680125-C9THLY7AOO4ND3JXAZIQ/Y+Bal+3.gif Blog - Strength Training Has Many Forms https://www.sapphirephysicaltherapy.com/blog/insights-from-a-pelvic-floor-physical-therapist-part-1-incontinence monthly 0.5 2025-02-19 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/d6af8133-737b-4f8e-9412-6854d9870bb6/PF+Diagram.jpg Blog - Insights from a Pelvic Floor Physical Therapist - Part 1: Incontinence - Make it stand out Image from www.ic-network.com/pelvic-painconditions/pelvicfloordysfunction/the-pelvic-floor-muscles/ https://www.sapphirephysicaltherapy.com/blog/snowboarding-prehab monthly 0.5 2025-12-01 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1733157723118-OR3OIOW7SBDQ273ZX2J7/Chop+1.png Blog - Snowboarding Prehab https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1733157985028-QEA41V3GHAE824SJCKZQ/Chop+2.png Blog - Snowboarding Prehab https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1733170631740-WI6YKVAAUBI7OF4U47MK/Y+Bal+1.gif Blog - Snowboarding Prehab https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1733170652937-WMS81PWZA8ARWORQFFW0/Y+bal+2.gif Blog - Snowboarding Prehab https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1733170680125-C9THLY7AOO4ND3JXAZIQ/Y+Bal+3.gif Blog - Snowboarding Prehab https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1733169602894-TQNQFUB6OP1XLDYH6KFZ/Ben+Snowboarding.jpg Blog - Snowboarding Prehab https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1733169611482-PMX4FW1WVHVTBURF18JW/Andrew-Kylee+Snowboarding.jpg Blog - Snowboarding Prehab https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1733170302641-KZRO1WNT621VYM6DSLSE/Unilateral+Farmer+Carry.gif Blog - Snowboarding Prehab https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1733170011222-7KHUMFP36BF61YB9HQPJ/Plyo+Push+Up+1.gif Blog - Snowboarding Prehab https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1733170039458-2MKJR3LR02HQC2CIU6T6/Plyo+Push+Up+2.gif Blog - Snowboarding Prehab https://www.sapphirephysicaltherapy.com/blog/what-is-vo-max-and-why-it-matters monthly 0.5 2024-12-02 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/59d008e0-8c3a-4217-8233-186d7878ee98/VO2+Max+Chart.png Blog - What is VO₂ Max and Why It Matters - (Adapted by Peter Attia from ASCM) (Adapted by Peter Attia from ASCM) https://www.sapphirephysicaltherapy.com/blog/is-the-squatty-potty-the-magic-answer-for-constipation monthly 0.5 2024-12-02 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1732893745786-FNIGUJLHB99O019OFMJN/unsplash-image-4Kd3svPFuEI.jpg Blog - Is The Squatty Potty The Magic Answer for Constipation? - There is a strong correlation between dehydration and constipation. (3) That means roughly half of your weight (in pounds) in ounces. If that seems like a lot, start by increasing in small increments - one more glass, one more water bottle, etc. Dietary fiber also helps bulk up your stool and has been found to play a role in stool frequency. (5) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1732893922786-J937MOZW9AI2KUC6CVWH/unsplash-image-mNGaaLeWEp0.jpg Blog - Is The Squatty Potty The Magic Answer for Constipation? - More and more research is supporting the role of exercise in constipation. (6) Due to the variety of exercise interventions, there is no set recommendation. At this time, we are using the same exercise guidelines for general health for rectal health (6): 150 minutes of moderate intensity aerobic exercise PLUS 2 days of strength training! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/77754b7c-3235-4231-999a-288ad0584429/istockphoto-1349363964-612x612.jpg Blog - Is The Squatty Potty The Magic Answer for Constipation? - The rectum is the last 20 cm of your large intestine, while your anal canal, which is between the rectum and anus, is closed off by sphincter muscles. (2) The rectum is naturally at an angle that can create resistance against the passage of stool. (2) When you sit with increased hip flexion (knees closer to your chest) - whether that’s feet on a stool or leaning your trunk forward into the Thinker position - the anorectal angle is increased and aligns the rectum with the anal canal. (3) The rectum is the last 20 cm of your large intestine, while your anal canal, which is between the rectum and anus, is closed off by sphincter muscles. (2) The rectum is naturally at an angle that can create resistance against the passage of stool. (2) When you sit with increased hip flexion (knees closer to your chest) - whether that’s feet on a stool or leaning your trunk forward into the Thinker position - the anorectal angle is increased and aligns the rectum with the anal canal. (3) https://www.sapphirephysicaltherapy.com/blog/how-to-get-to-the-rut-starting-line-injury-free monthly 0.5 2024-12-02 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/d3cbc452-33ba-43d9-bda3-49abe8fd0d94/Rut+2.png Blog - How To Get To The Rut Starting Line Injury Free - Begin hydrating days prior to the event. While recommendations vary based on the individual, aiming for 15.5 cups of fluid for men and 11.5 cups for women is a good benchmark. Check your urine; an easy way to determine if you are adequately hydrated is if your urine is colorless or light yellow. Arrive early, if possible, to better acclimate to the elevation. Drink water or an electrolyte-infused beverage consistently throughout the race; don’t save it all for when you’re thirsty. Attempt to avoid consuming diuretics; this means monitoring alcohol and coffee intake prior to the race! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/c560e726-2d16-4995-8916-42222db4fd37/Rut+Foot.png Blog - How To Get To The Rut Starting Line Injury Free - Do not wear brand new shoes on race day. Wear shoes and socks you have tested on long, technical runs. Shoe and sock choices are a personal thing. John prefers a shoe with an aggressive outsole and medium thickness merino wool socks for breathability and blister reduction. Pre-race foot care. John avoids foot blisters and hot spots by smothering his feet and toes with Vaseline or a similar foot care product before putting his socks on. No blisters = happy feet! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/262aa3fa-2336-47ca-9639-b99452670428/tempImageFuqEo2.jpg Blog - How To Get To The Rut Starting Line Injury Free - For dorsiflexion (the anterior tibialis muscle), you can progress to standing and leaning against a wall or hooking a kettlebell around your toes. For plantarflexion, make sure to complete calf raises in both a bent knee, and straight knee position. This will allow us to target both calf muscles, the soleus and gastric respectively. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/b09f5ef0-c267-41ea-8279-bbee0d5a9877/Untitled+design-6.png Blog - How To Get To The Rut Starting Line Injury Free - Recent studies show the sweet spot of a taper is a 41-60% reduction in volume, without changing training intensity or frequency (2,3). Typically this is done over two weeks, but performing over 3 weeks has also been shown to be effective (2,3). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1a58feff-7dcc-499f-b29e-8e46a851bddb/Rut+Terrain.png Blog - How To Get To The Rut Starting Line Injury Free - His advice: Seek out similar training terrain in the weeks leading up to The Rut. Time on your feet and mileage preparation is one thing, but spending time at altitude on ridge lines, scree, and steep terrain will help you feel more like a mountain goat and less like a fish out of water on race day. Practice both running and hiking on your long, technical climbs. Work on rapid foot turnover and practice eating and drinking while climbing as it is easier to get calories in when you are moving more slowly. Get used to running on loose, steep terrain. Increase your stability with a wide base of support, rapid foot movement, and lean forward not backward as if you are skiing downhill rather than braking. https://www.sapphirephysicaltherapy.com/blog/pooping-public-service-announcement monthly 0.5 2025-07-08 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/9cb1a57b-a94a-4e51-a372-ef9b80528707/unnamed+%2812%29.png Blog - Trail Etiquette Public Service Announcement: Pooping on the Run - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.sapphirephysicaltherapy.com/blog/whats-normal-when-you-urinate monthly 0.5 2024-07-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/90880c40-e98e-48ea-ae0e-fa2db0aebd10/Urination+Diagram+%281%29.jpg Blog - What’s Normal When I Urinate? - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.sapphirephysicaltherapy.com/blog/rotator-cuff monthly 0.5 2024-08-06 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1721420050420-KBDUWMF0BPKY4GY25XRI/image+%2876%29.png Blog - The Rotator Cuff: What is it and its function in the Shoulder https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1721420050363-D71HQJXEFD1A9KIZUH3V/image+%2875%29.png Blog - The Rotator Cuff: What is it and its function in the Shoulder https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1721420001236-T1V672W4FFHPSB8NX1A5/image+%2874%29.png Blog - The Rotator Cuff: What is it and its function in the Shoulder https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1721420001217-2K63GN3AI31KD1INS7S2/image+%2873%29.png Blog - The Rotator Cuff: What is it and its function in the Shoulder https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1721420131965-E50PVDCZKBEV2LK7ZS9C/unnamed+%289%29.png Blog - The Rotator Cuff: What is it and its function in the Shoulder https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1721420131777-U7QQINYPZMSESM6VN22P/unnamed+%288%29.png Blog - The Rotator Cuff: What is it and its function in the Shoulder https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/206d4485-b4e3-4d1a-be2b-9dec84f31711/image+%2871%29.png Blog - The Rotator Cuff: What is it and its function in the Shoulder - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/c0e1ea78-c25c-45d3-8ddf-d1e94b25468e/image+%2872%29.png Blog - The Rotator Cuff: What is it and its function in the Shoulder - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1721420181557-TLZ32B4FXI8SN0XVYVC6/unnamed+%2811%29.png Blog - The Rotator Cuff: What is it and its function in the Shoulder https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1721420181552-001ZCJUEGNEFF1SUGJAY/unnamed+%2810%29.png Blog - The Rotator Cuff: What is it and its function in the Shoulder https://www.sapphirephysicaltherapy.com/blog/hamstring-strains-treatment monthly 0.5 2024-08-06 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1721418762722-J5L4I3396K5M4VXYWX6K/image+%2861%29.png Blog - Hamstring Strains: Treatment and Prevention https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1721418762265-JLTGLH5BWE2Z5QDWPC86/image+%2862%29.png Blog - Hamstring Strains: Treatment and Prevention https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/92542729-4b52-44c4-a6aa-39885337da7a/ben+chart+.+jpg.jpg Blog - Hamstring Strains: Treatment and Prevention - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1721419436136-P8OZ7ZBBNL83EU1JU3ZV/image+%2870%29.png Blog - Hamstring Strains: Treatment and Prevention https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1721419436267-7EIR78M24PXFQJ7CY2CX/image+%2869%29.png Blog - Hamstring Strains: Treatment and Prevention https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1721418596501-H06QQ66UG4SXQDDJE7OZ/image+%2858%29.png Blog - Hamstring Strains: Treatment and Prevention https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1721418601814-EJPCT0AM9EEKEH61G2NC/image+%2859%29.png Blog - Hamstring Strains: Treatment and Prevention https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/ea374819-0ceb-4d2e-bbc0-fc6a450f22bc/image+%2860%29.png Blog - Hamstring Strains: Treatment and Prevention - We can think of the strength and length of our hamstrings in a grid. Hamstrings that are most robust and least likely to sustain a strain are those in the top right of the grid or are “strong and long.” Alternatively, the bottom left corner of the grid has been aptly named the “Quadrant of Doom” as players that fall into this category are most likely to sustain a hamstring strain (3). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1721418933057-1SYQIPH3DSGIZSZ70OXP/image+%2864%29.png Blog - Hamstring Strains: Treatment and Prevention https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1721418933681-VBSJAHIYNQNC6O9D15ZJ/image+%2863%29.png Blog - Hamstring Strains: Treatment and Prevention https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/08c5f821-0b41-4d7d-b947-86c24e5963ba/image+%2857%29.png Blog - Hamstring Strains: Treatment and Prevention - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/5b653f1c-0ee6-4da2-950b-b8ad8fc287a8/image+%2868%29.png Blog - Hamstring Strains: Treatment and Prevention - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1721418998102-JOEZ9K8JO0CIUR6MBKWE/image+%2866%29.png Blog - Hamstring Strains: Treatment and Prevention https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1721419038063-61XB0BW2UMWLTCZOR5VL/image+%2865%29.png Blog - Hamstring Strains: Treatment and Prevention https://www.sapphirephysicaltherapy.com/blog/understanding-and-treating-plantar-fasciitis-pain monthly 0.5 2024-07-19 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/83e5d0d9-61b2-4cb4-a54b-f941859e2fd3/image+%2856%29.png Blog - Understanding and Treating Plantar Fasciitis Pain - Make it stand out Photo: www.semanticscholar.org https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/4800491b-121a-4ae0-aa7c-1708e9bee5b2/image+%2855%29.png Blog - Understanding and Treating Plantar Fasciitis Pain - What it looks like Plantar fasciopathy is a more accurate term to describe heel and arch pain as it includes the inflammatory condition (plantar fasciitis), and degenerative condition (plantar fasciosis) of the plantar fascia. Plantar fasciitis occurs when the thick, fibrous plantar fascia becomes inflamed due to trauma, poor foot strength, repetitive arch strain, or faulty foot-ankle biomechanics. Plantar fasciosis describes the non-inflamed degenerative state of the plantar fascia due to repetitive stress and chronic soreness. https://www.sapphirephysicaltherapy.com/blog/youth-and-movement monthly 0.5 2024-04-26 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/bb17c8a2-8835-4687-abc4-8e04c59baff3/image+%2854%29.png Blog - Youth and Movement: Why it matters to us, and why it matters to you, too - Our After-School Program Sapphire Physical Therapy is starting an after-school program aimed to help the community promote healthy movement habits for the next generation of Missoulians. This class will be tailored to the desires of the community and will emphasize having fun and building confidence by doing things that are physically challenging (appropriately challenging). Would you like to know more? Visit the link below to find out more about the specifics of the class! https://runsignup.com/Race/MT/Missoula/YouthMovementClass Written by Ryan Stemple, MS, SPT3, CSCS https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/15eb5d35-bfbb-42c7-a815-b3abdbfa5435/image+%2852%29.png Blog - Youth and Movement: Why it matters to us, and why it matters to you, too - This worries me, and if I do my job in writing this, it will worry you too. Isaac Asimov (or was it Hal McAllister?) once said “today’s science fiction is tomorrow’s science fact”, and Wall-E is no exception. Video games, cell phones, tablets, TV, and wearable technologies like virtual reality all pull at our kids’ attention, as they are all specifically designed to do so. And with more time spent on screens and indoors, less time is spent physically moving. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/fbdf6a9f-4483-4333-9cd7-933c05300dfe/image+%2853%29.png Blog - Youth and Movement: Why it matters to us, and why it matters to you, too - Intrinsic Musculature Exercises As a matter of fact, it may be the opposite. The same technology discussed earlier, for all its pitfalls, has also allowed each of us to accelerate our learning curves, connect with like-minded individuals outside of our geographic area, and explore alternate viewpoints (and maybe a few Instagram rabbit holes). As a matter of fact, technology is allowing me to reach you right now. My view is that kids increasingly view physical activity as too challenging or don’t recognize how much fun being able to move your body can be. That’s why here at Sapphire we are motivated to do something about it. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/0adfa8c2-7b0b-4118-95e4-702e9b9ddc63/image+%2851%29.png Blog - Youth and Movement: Why it matters to us, and why it matters to you, too - Who remembers the Disney movie Wall-E? An adorable robot, left behind on Earth to clean up the mess made by his creators. A thought-provoking movie on multiple levels, one of which is important to touch on here. We all remember Wall-E and maybe his robot companion Eve, but who remembers the humans on the ship? https://www.sapphirephysicaltherapy.com/blog/forefoot-pain-in-running monthly 0.5 2024-02-29 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/17f2929d-2d7e-49fa-977f-64d1bfc7b139/unnamed+%283%29.png Blog - Forefoot Pain in Running Athletes: Plantar Plate Injuries - Plantar Plate Taping Proper plantar plate taping flattens the associated toe and provides support to promote healing. A physical therapist with foot expertise can provide instruction in effective taping. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/0cf84b96-62cc-4d8f-809c-5cc403824d43/image+%2847%29.png Blog - Forefoot Pain in Running Athletes: Plantar Plate Injuries - Has pain in the ball of your foot or toe stopped you in your tracks? Forefoot pain is a common injury familiar to many running athletes. A sudden increase in running mileage, wearing shoes with poor support or cleats, or frequent hill running on rocky terrain are common causes of forefoot pain. Differentiating between possible forefoot injury diagnoses is crucial. Pain in the metatarsal heads is a common overuse injury, but a plantar plate injury often results in long-term pain and limitation if not treated correctly. Understanding signs of a plantar plate injury and seeking effective treatment early will result in a successful return to running. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/dbaafc69-fd6f-41dd-b427-0ea500ab3152/Foot+2.png Blog - Forefoot Pain in Running Athletes: Plantar Plate Injuries - Plantar Plate Anatomy Pain in the metatarsal head and toe is hard to ignore. While rest will often resolve true metatarsalgia (inflammation of the metatarsal head), a plantar plate injury requires a different approach. The plantar plate connects the metatarsal bone to the toe, providing stability and promoting toe purchase (toe touching the ground). In addition to being painful, a plantar plate injury compromises the function of the associated toe. Taping the involved toe is an effective way to provide symptom relief and proper toe positioning (keeps toe flat to decrease pain and risk of long-term deformity). Additional treatments include strengthening the intrinsic musculature of the foot, a properly placed metatarsal pad, wearing a stiffer-soled shoe, and custom orthotics. A few foot exercise examples and a plantar plate taping example can be found below. Call the foot and ankle experts at Sapphire Physical Therapy to make sure your feet are ready for adventures in 2024. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1708632320842-WFNEZ5RLV2YLORUOXN9X/image+%2850%29.png Blog - Forefoot Pain in Running Athletes: Plantar Plate Injuries - Arch Raise https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1708632315039-7GRO7RM4FQPJM4FEO9SR/unnamed+%284%29.png Blog - Forefoot Pain in Running Athletes: Plantar Plate Injuries - Toe Yoga https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1708632327813-G5C6M3KNSQT5V6JUI899/unnamed+%285%29.png Blog - Forefoot Pain in Running Athletes: Plantar Plate Injuries - Towel Toe Flexion https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1708632331181-ROSK9WWOVWXFCKOW9NYU/unnamed+%286%29.png Blog - Forefoot Pain in Running Athletes: Plantar Plate Injuries - Seated Calf Raise https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/270acb16-a615-4309-935c-9b500c305bbe/image+%2849%29.png Blog - Forefoot Pain in Running Athletes: Plantar Plate Injuries - Intrinsic Musculature Exercises In addition to 26 bones and 33 joints, the bottom of the human foot has four layers of muscles. A strong foot is a happy foot. Foot pain impacts activity level and alters gait. Strengthening the four layers of plantar muscles prepares the foot for a gradual return to activities. https://www.sapphirephysicaltherapy.com/blog/what-is-postural-orthostatic-tachycardia-syndrome monthly 0.5 2024-02-22 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/c584f547-acfe-46d0-b96d-b5bb6414dff0/POTS+2.png Blog - What is Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome? - What are the symptoms? Dizziness, lightheadedness, heat intolerance (i.e., dislikes hot showers), cold and clammy in extremities (even discoloration), headache to migraine, sweaty, decreased exercise tolerance, nausea, excessive racing heart rate, chest pain, brain fog, pre-syncope (pre fainting), syncope episodes, GI distress. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/6a870916-a8d0-434e-b580-7e172072b191/POTS+1.png Blog - What is Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome? - About POTS: Among several important functions, this system helps your blood vessels constrict when you change body positions i.e., sitting to standing. When people with POTS have a postural change, they do not have normal vasoconstriction, creating an orthostatic response with blood not adequately returning to the heart. The result is a rapid heart rate to move blood volume—tachycardia. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/714fef5f-99ba-4c85-bba3-189f9892cdf9/POTS+3.png Blog - What is Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome? - How can PT help POTS treatment? Physical therapy contributes an important piece to the management of POTS. Guided slow progressive exercise is an effective intervention in managing POTS. Beginning work in supine positions to semi recumbent to ideally upright training. Exercise increases circulating blood volume through the body and reduces blood pooling, by having skeletal muscles contract and serve as a pump back up to the heart. The overall goal is to improve tolerance to upright activities of daily living, but also to attenuate skeletal and cardiac muscle wasting, which can just exacerbate symptoms when up right. A guideline often utilized is the Levine Protocol to offer a progression to providers and patients through exercise training tolerance. The protocol is useful but important to remember not every individual will move through/ tolerate the same, so modification as necessary is expected. https://www.sapphirephysicaltherapy.com/blog/the-back-squat monthly 0.5 2024-02-22 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/defb8ae0-1a70-4a8f-befb-fa98dc1c72ec/back+squat+3.png Blog - The Back Squat - Barbell Back Squat Technique First time performing a barbell back squat? Here are the basic techniques to consider: Stand with your feet as wide as your shoulders Middle of the bar placed evenly across your shoulders Toe out position should be whatever is most comfortable for you and your hip anatomy Keep a neutral head and back position with chest upright Hips release backwards as your knees bend forwards Control the descent until knees are bent around 90 degrees (or further if able) Push into the ground to return to your starting position https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1708630665889-1KSN4WDDU1JOPVYL4G68/Back+squat+6.png Blog - The Back Squat - Box Squat (1) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1708630665692-U3GIXZUSY94VTT3X6REF/Back+squat+7.png Blog - The Back Squat - Box Squat (2) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1708630511060-D0Q074GJJO0A98WSFHGI/Back+squat+4.png Blog - The Back Squat - Goblet Squat (1) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1708630511060-RKAFIFBCPEWMN5Q5D49T/Back+squat+5.png Blog - The Back Squat - Goblet Squat (2) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1708629379867-FJU83O12DJ4QNYPW6H3T/back+Squat+1.png Blog - The Back Squat https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1708629379655-HNQ5ACDQI6J19HTT8HCL/Back+Squat+2.png Blog - The Back Squat https://www.sapphirephysicaltherapy.com/blog/cold-weather-running monthly 0.5 2024-02-22 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1699489049388-W91MDVG1XJFQBN8GC2TL/image4.jpg Blog - Cold Weather Running https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1699489151134-A27H97MWZ9WP84LG8X20/image3.jpg Blog - Cold Weather Running https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1699489305863-DLNYNDWMND4QMDP2XZVD/image6.jpg Blog - Cold Weather Running https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1699489051019-WJJPMMSGONRFTKHKEY0U/image5.jpg Blog - Cold Weather Running https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1699489048348-FPUYPJ08EMCC744XRXOZ/image1.jpg Blog - Cold Weather Running https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/8dc18076-fdc5-45a4-b37f-d03d7b050319/image2.jpg Blog - Cold Weather Running - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.sapphirephysicaltherapy.com/blog/running-analysis monthly 0.5 2023-11-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1699487826874-AVLTD5MQLRTFKQOLOTLH/Monitor.png Blog - Sapphire Physical Therapy Provides High Speed 2D Video Running Analysis https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1699488333067-KVWRDGR0L4D7HPIU5VFQ/Monitor%2BWatching.jpg Blog - Sapphire Physical Therapy Provides High Speed 2D Video Running Analysis https://www.sapphirephysicaltherapy.com/blog/why-muscle-strength-and-power-are-important-for-fall-prevention monthly 0.5 2023-11-08 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/3165ed3c-dfdf-4011-a663-63a9bf345a8b/IMG_3997.jpeg Blog - Why Muscle Strength and Power are Important for Fall Prevention - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1699487303584-DDHHZSUWH1NP9RMZ1LAO/IMG_4028.jpeg Blog - Why Muscle Strength and Power are Important for Fall Prevention https://www.sapphirephysicaltherapy.com/blog/jump-rope-aug-2023 monthly 0.5 2023-11-08 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1692050310262-JZR06FBGE29C4EBQIIBA/image+%2838%29.png Blog - How jumping rope can improve your 3km time...and more! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1692050310231-1HRXEOUXLIKK6HZFMCST/image+%2839%29.png Blog - How jumping rope can improve your 3km time...and more! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/e31e8fe6-e6f6-4c1e-bf61-301174bd5c06/image+%2837%29.png Blog - How jumping rope can improve your 3km time...and more! - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1692050244347-HIGAURK36SR9L0C9SJ81/image+%2840%29.png Blog - How jumping rope can improve your 3km time...and more! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1692050244439-1APP2T8YPNC83GV8JQFQ/image+%2841%29.png Blog - How jumping rope can improve your 3km time...and more! https://www.sapphirephysicaltherapy.com/blog/bone-health-aug-2023 monthly 0.5 2023-08-14 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/e3a8e4b6-e165-4413-96b6-29ba86030603/Bone1.png Blog - Improving Bone Health - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1692049487110-PMTQDZGT2H4GP43EVP3T/Bone2.jpg Blog - Improving Bone Health https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1692049487156-9M6VQKT91WDW6VI7EYMB/Bone3.jpg Blog - Improving Bone Health https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1692049487915-A4L9AEYX6XNMP4VJF6RT/Bone4.jpg Blog - Improving Bone Health https://www.sapphirephysicaltherapy.com/blog/sleep-aug-2023 monthly 0.5 2023-08-14 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/b2f463e6-b5a5-413d-9f88-672f55603b8c/image+%2836%29.png Blog - The Role of Sleep in Pain, Rehab, and Performance - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1d8b96d6-8a18-4a24-a961-60a438b0e14e/image+%2834%29.png Blog - The Role of Sleep in Pain, Rehab, and Performance - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/c1df1619-69fc-416f-9dcd-452591fd402e/image+%2835%29.png Blog - The Role of Sleep in Pain, Rehab, and Performance - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.sapphirephysicaltherapy.com/blog/treating-plantar-fasciitis-in-runners monthly 0.5 2023-08-14 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1687533352860-WKVUFBJV4JPPSRJGXNQF/image+%2832%29.png Blog - Understanding and Treating Plantar Fasciitis in Runners - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1687532994225-DDYR8PJNEYMTZWML5SXX/Understanding+and+Treating+Plantar+Fasciitis+in+Runners.png Blog - Understanding and Treating Plantar Fasciitis in Runners - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.sapphirephysicaltherapy.com/blog/groin-strains-management-and-prevention monthly 0.5 2023-06-23 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1684938497856-G1ZD3P38UK056HKPSERS/image+%2823%29.png Blog - Groin Strains: Management and Prevention https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1684938497480-Q94JT387AIEUD69QRODG/image+%2824%29.png Blog - Groin Strains: Management and Prevention https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1684938851994-1UGMH6VVG0CQWOLSNHOH/image+%2829%29.png Blog - Groin Strains: Management and Prevention https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1684938853376-CM21VYP24LGS5VLYTZ9W/image+%2830%29.png Blog - Groin Strains: Management and Prevention https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1684938921462-QAPLL8OFEI9JGMDMDHUQ/image+%2831%29.png Blog - Groin Strains: Management and Prevention - Make it stand out (Photo from Haroy et al, 2018 demonstrating a partner Copenhagen adductor exercise with both a long lever 3A/3B and short lever 2A/2B) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1684938603276-QPAVBG2TDGK0FG8OEJ4S/image+%2825%29.png Blog - Groin Strains: Management and Prevention https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1684938603276-US7XBFI3JTAY98AAF7S2/image+%2826%29.png Blog - Groin Strains: Management and Prevention https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1684938687214-1JT3IYAIKWOEDZ4W0EYX/image+%2827%29.png Blog - Groin Strains: Management and Prevention https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1684938687214-89VK7QXZXE9159IFCF3M/image+%2828%29.png Blog - Groin Strains: Management and Prevention https://www.sapphirephysicaltherapy.com/blog/the-mystery-of-the-chronically-tight-hip-flexors monthly 0.5 2023-05-23 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1684882898068-SN9YLTL3U89BJETQI7DF/image+%289%29.png Blog - The Mystery of the Chronically Tight Hip Flexors https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1684884323607-YL25NHQKBZ605YAYH9Q4/image+%2810%29.png Blog - The Mystery of the Chronically Tight Hip Flexors https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1684882993938-MJ5577WDEX9OJTHA6R15/image+%2811%29.png Blog - The Mystery of the Chronically Tight Hip Flexors https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1684882993793-6J0DDFLXRCZDFDM84T04/image+%2812%29.png Blog - The Mystery of the Chronically Tight Hip Flexors https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1684882818210-Q5994OQLCS3MNSF4F4GI/image+%287%29.png Blog - The Mystery of the Chronically Tight Hip Flexors https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1684882287176-SPQ9U9OYX1MWFY8R14SW/image+%288%29.png Blog - The Mystery of the Chronically Tight Hip Flexors https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1684883284128-K0EJLIVCQPUB4YLDB9EK/image+%2817%29.png Blog - The Mystery of the Chronically Tight Hip Flexors https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1684883283704-EYQBB7A290UPDOTV6NW4/image+%2818%29.png Blog - The Mystery of the Chronically Tight Hip Flexors https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/4eb6cae7-b3db-4ae9-bf15-2722a9ad7653/image+%284%29.jpg Blog - The Mystery of the Chronically Tight Hip Flexors - Spring running miles are ramping up and as the ice melts our strides are opening up as well. There is a very good chance that you have felt or been told, you have “tight hip flexors.” Listening to our body is important, but occasionally sensations through the body can be misinterpreted. Feeling tight or stiff can potentially mean there is a muscle/tendon unit that has less length, but there is also a strong possibility when looking at the hip flexor, the sensation could actually be from limited strength. If you feel like you are continually stretching your chronically tight hip flexor to no resolution the answer may be the following—strengthen the hip flexors. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1684883161490-E8D2MG2KL4UN7IN1DFVS/image+%2815%29.png Blog - The Mystery of the Chronically Tight Hip Flexors https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1684883161685-823BTY8DBPRLAHQOWZU8/image+%2816%29.png Blog - The Mystery of the Chronically Tight Hip Flexors https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1684883451686-YMKJLAUFCB9T2X8NDT2J/image+%2819%29.png Blog - The Mystery of the Chronically Tight Hip Flexors https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1684883451685-XJJ5R5C40I2TB1ZPNW8O/image+%2820%29.png Blog - The Mystery of the Chronically Tight Hip Flexors https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1684882096230-HJWLC05CN9LTXOOH66OB/image+%285%29.png Blog - The Mystery of the Chronically Tight Hip Flexors https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1684882096091-BF4DRA7LJWPHE3OCBSDT/image+%286%29.png Blog - The Mystery of the Chronically Tight Hip Flexors https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1684883079275-L5B274E5B1APRQD6LFW5/image+%2813%29.png Blog - The Mystery of the Chronically Tight Hip Flexors https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1684883078931-DPSE5GIKI2868K6NQXXD/image+%2814%29.png Blog - The Mystery of the Chronically Tight Hip Flexors https://www.sapphirephysicaltherapy.com/blog/staying-active-and-fit-during-middle-age-and-beyond monthly 0.5 2023-02-14 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/c4f71377-bafc-4bf1-83ec-b7b7cea90836/weight+training.png Blog - Staying Active and Fit During Middle-Age and Beyond - CARDIAC CHANGES WITH AGE AND RECOMMENDATIONS - In addition to healthy lifestyle habits (good nutrition, avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol consumption), regular exercise is crucial for a healthy heart, especially as we age. Aerobic exercise improves cardiac function, increases lean body mass, and increases fitness. It is important, however, to consult your physician to determine your cardiac health if you are over forty. Determining your aerobic threshold will allow you to train more effectively for aerobic activities such as running and cycling. Monitor your blood pressure and do not wait for symptoms to consult your physician, especially if you are beginning an exercise routine or sport following an absence. SETTING REALISTIC GOALS AND EXPECTATIONS - The hardest part for some aging active individuals is adjusting the expectations we place on ourselves. When we are young, most of us compare ourselves to others in some way. As we age, a sign of wisdom is the ability to listen to our bodies and adjust our goals accordingly. Find a goal that means something deeply. Find a goal that brings you close to and benefits others in some way. Break your goal down into attainable pieces and be willing to adjust your timeline along the way. Enjoy the journey, as the journey often surpasses the goal itself. If you need assistance with an injury or need a strengthening program aimed at a fitness, adventure, or racing goal, see one of our skilled physical therapists. - By John Fiore, PT https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/647989fe-a29a-454a-8c0d-29b9257b60fb/technical+mountain+running.jpg Blog - Staying Active and Fit During Middle-Age and Beyond - BACKGROUND Ten years ago, I wrote an article titled Running in Your Fifties and Beyond. Ten years later, and hopefully wiser, I will share the latest tips and research to decrease the myth and mystery of how to stay active and fit through your forties, fifties, sixties and beyond. We are fortunate to live in Western Montana. Recreation is literally outside our door year-round! The key to staying active and fit during the fourth decade of life and beyond is to find activities which interest and challenge you physically and mentally. Participate in a variety of sports or activities for overall fitness. Consistency is equally important for life-long fitness and health. Make time in your day for exercise and commit to health and fitness for the long haul. Your body and mind will thank you. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/344bb144-b83a-4634-afc3-4c5537efa68a/muscle+composition.png Blog - Staying Active and Fit During Middle-Age and Beyond - MUSCLE-TENDON CHANGES WITH AGE - As we age, our top end speed and power decline. Sarcopenia is a naturally occurring loss of muscle mass, strength, and function with age. The process begins in the mid-thirties and accelerates for most people in their sixties and seventies (Grosicki et al, 2021). Research shows, however, that a combination of strengthening and aerobic exercise can slow the process of sarcopenia. A recent study looked at the cross-sectional matrix of a seventy-four-year-old sedentary individual and a seventy-year-old triathlete with visible distinctions. Connective tissue changes occur naturally with age as well. In the case of distance runners, these changes are manifested in decreased tendon tensile strength. As tendon tensile strength decreases, running stride length decreases, propulsion (ankle plantarflexion or push-off) decreases, and lower extremity injury risk increases (Willy, Paquette, 2019). RESISTANCE TRAINING FOR MUSCLE, BONE, METABOLISM Resistance training is crucial, especially after the age of thirty-five due to a natural decrease in muscle mass and strength. Resistance training with high loading and low repetitions is needed to build muscle, power, and improve tendon tensile strength as we age. If you want to stay fit, fast, and reduce injury, then follow a resistance training program two to three times per week. Include all major upper and lower extremity muscle groups, and do not forget to strengthen your feet and ankles. EXERCISE MYTHS (RUNNING AND OSTEOARTHRITS, INJURY RISK, TOO OLD TO GET STRONG) Running is not bad for your knees. Current research points to the importance of loading for joint health. Moderate levels of distance running actually have a positive impact on joint cartilage provided adequate recovery takes place after a workout (Lo et al 2018). Running, therefore, is not a predictor of increased osteoarthritis risk, nor is it a predictor of future injury. More accurate predictors of injury include prior injury, prior surgery, training errors, poor sleep habits, and inadequate recovery following a hard physical effort. Heavy resistance training is important as we grow older. It is possible to build muscle mass even into one’s eighties. https://www.sapphirephysicaltherapy.com/blog/osgood-schlatters-keeping-young-athletes-in-sports monthly 0.5 2023-02-14 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/2eed498b-3f79-481f-b49f-1911f33b1885/Exercise+Image.jpg Blog - Osgood-Schlatters: Keeping Young Athletes in Sports - The Quadriceps Isometric: While sitting, kick into a ball/wall for 5-10 seconds as hard as you can without pain. Relax. Repeat this 10 times. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1676329296514-GCDR3BALFKAWXCSLMXQO/Knee+Image.jpg Blog - Osgood-Schlatters: Keeping Young Athletes in Sports https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1676329296883-IP4KJ7QUEKXUCI4YMILH/Kneecap+Image.jpg Blog - Osgood-Schlatters: Keeping Young Athletes in Sports https://www.sapphirephysicaltherapy.com/blog/heres-why-you-keep-getting-injured-according-to-a-physical-therapist monthly 0.5 2023-01-19 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1666718762632-RH8UZ0YC1XGQYBYB426D/IMG-9513.jpg Blog - Here’s Why You Keep Getting Injured, According to a Physical Therapist. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1666718763747-FMTAKT2MJ0MJ8FLK6N6D/IMG-9509.jpg Blog - Here’s Why You Keep Getting Injured, According to a Physical Therapist. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1666718972845-K3KL0U5RZ33QM1B6XKKW/IMG-9497.jpg Blog - Here’s Why You Keep Getting Injured, According to a Physical Therapist. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1666718920457-2XYUTJ2A68X9F1U3S4IY/IMG-9507.jpg Blog - Here’s Why You Keep Getting Injured, According to a Physical Therapist. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1666718915281-ZGL1FXJ6WMGEWX1VQ7IU/IMG-9485.jpg Blog - Here’s Why You Keep Getting Injured, According to a Physical Therapist. https://www.sapphirephysicaltherapy.com/blog/sapphire-physical-therapy-celebrates-twenty-eight-year-anniversary monthly 0.5 2022-10-25 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1603465641263-1I4H2GDABILQTUU65PQL/120575149_10160398427594746_5669164496307125111_n.jpg Blog - Sapphire Physical Therapy Celebrates Twenty-Eight Year Anniversary - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.sapphirephysicaltherapy.com/blog/top-exercises-for-managing-ankle-injuries monthly 0.5 2022-10-03 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1664818768169-4W46KJSR8VWIMPQZB7PN/Photo+6.jpg Blog - Top Exercises for Managing Ankle Injuries https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1664818768267-FGDD4T7IEZBIBU4CD04V/Photo+5.jpg Blog - Top Exercises for Managing Ankle Injuries https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1664818662687-FE47ZLLMH423UP88U7RQ/Photo+2.jpg Blog - Top Exercises for Managing Ankle Injuries https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1664818671289-1X6MKNT70ZU9JP9CJJ8H/Photo+1.jpg Blog - Top Exercises for Managing Ankle Injuries https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1664818869452-7ZTIBU5WAZOWPZGOK6X2/Photo+10.jpg Blog - Top Exercises for Managing Ankle Injuries https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1664818869438-IQAAAJRKD275UEP336VV/Photo+9.jpg Blog - Top Exercises for Managing Ankle Injuries https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1664818814103-VTAMF6N8BJ92OH351IRJ/Photo+8.jpg Blog - Top Exercises for Managing Ankle Injuries https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1664818814097-HD4UTU8L52C57L00M23Z/Photo+7.jpg Blog - Top Exercises for Managing Ankle Injuries https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1664818959371-YKL6UP6HDMNDAE9564M0/Photo+14.jpg Blog - Top Exercises for Managing Ankle Injuries https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1664818959482-U0X3KVZSI6FRND33XA5F/Photo+13.jpg Blog - Top Exercises for Managing Ankle Injuries https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1664818710083-OS1QBXL5ZWKZQRY3B4MZ/Photo+4.jpg Blog - Top Exercises for Managing Ankle Injuries https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1664818710088-RX8XVTA0MKGDYGH9W22B/Photo+3.jpg Blog - Top Exercises for Managing Ankle Injuries https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1664818906878-HUSVAWIK5JR2362S5MIP/Photo+12.jpg Blog - Top Exercises for Managing Ankle Injuries https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1664818906778-PUGA7R98X3OZE04L66FA/Photo+11.jpg Blog - Top Exercises for Managing Ankle Injuries https://www.sapphirephysicaltherapy.com/blog/performance-benefits-of-heat-acclimation-for-athletes monthly 0.5 2022-08-24 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/cb6360c9-d24f-4117-8263-622e39c184c9/2C1BEFFC-DB37-47DE-BC5B-D62104E34D5A+%281%29.jpeg Blog - Performance Benefits of Heat Acclimation for Athletes - Performance Benefits from Heat Acclimation Training: Fluid balance improvements: Acclimated athlete’s sweat glands conserve sodium by secreting sweat with sodium concentrate as low as 10 mmolL-1, compared to unacclimated at around 60 mmolL-1 (1). Thus, an acclimated athlete would have less sodium replenishment during long duration activity. Acquired thermal tolerance Molecular adaptations provide protection & expedite repair from heat stress, ischemia, monocyte toxicity, & UV radiation (3) 23% improvement in time-to exhaustion (3) Studies show overall improvements in: heart rate, core temperature, skin temperature, power output at lactate threshold, increase in plasma volume, greater max cardiac output (1, 2, 3) https://www.sapphirephysicaltherapy.com/blog/understanding-it-band-pain monthly 0.5 2022-07-26 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/b47a09a6-4dfe-432c-9c39-097e09e8b680/shutterstock_723094621.jpg Blog - Understanding &amp; Addressing IT Band Pain - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/ea46796b-5d4f-4a57-b203-f7748e900bc3/running.png Blog - Understanding &amp; Addressing IT Band Pain - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/b0897f34-dc5a-472e-8f1d-a427d1682334/ITBand.png Blog - Understanding &amp; Addressing IT Band Pain - Make it stand out https://www.physio-pedia.com/Iliotibial_Band_Syndrome?utm_source=physiopedia&utm_medium=search&utm_campaign=ongoing_internal https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1658866003616-7ZGX6BQ82HQI9ZCPBRSW/image+%2814%29.png Blog - Understanding &amp; Addressing IT Band Pain https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1658866003767-CGTHPD41Q06NR43VG43K/image+%2813%29.png Blog - Understanding &amp; Addressing IT Band Pain https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1658866007346-27MSWLSWB0P3RFIOSURI/image+%2812%29.png Blog - Understanding &amp; Addressing IT Band Pain https://www.sapphirephysicaltherapy.com/blog/carbon-fiber-shoes monthly 0.5 2022-07-07 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/5e5b1a1e-1d2d-4473-80c8-f2829dda09a1/unnamed+%282%29.png Blog - Carbon Fiber Plated Running Shoes: Are they right for you and your feet? - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/a747b8f9-8ab2-4a54-b464-4741eadacfcb/windlass1.png Blog - Carbon Fiber Plated Running Shoes: Are they right for you and your feet? - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/942d59ba-b2f1-4907-b274-cbc04ec43ed7/windlass.png Blog - Carbon Fiber Plated Running Shoes: Are they right for you and your feet? - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.sapphirephysicaltherapy.com/blog/calf-raises-criterion-for-norm monthly 0.5 2022-08-03 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1653453569481-LT2SZ0UH4MKIV4ZD4JG4/image5.jpg Blog - Calf Raises, Criterion for Norm - Single Leg Calf Raise https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1653453550546-CG6DBS44J3MJCSW32IOO/image4.jpeg Blog - Calf Raises, Criterion for Norm - Single Leg Soleus Raise Bent knee https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1653453551284-K8XRT3Y5ZP41QQI5EDLB/image3.jpeg Blog - Calf Raises, Criterion for Norm - Seated Soleus Raise https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1653453551401-7MIIUMD9RBWXULX2MM8O/image2.jpeg Blog - Calf Raises, Criterion for Norm - Barbell Calf Raise https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1653453551975-XQICL47HGNR4P3CWTID8/image1+%282%29.jpeg Blog - Calf Raises, Criterion for Norm - Calf Raise on Leg Press https://www.sapphirephysicaltherapy.com/blog/knee-oa-to-run-or-not-to-run monthly 0.5 2022-07-07 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/3a70f2e3-4bc7-4c19-85ad-840847b5b0d1/unnamed+%281%29.png Blog - Knee OA: To run or not to run? - Our joints are meant to accept load and ‘lower dose’ (<57 miles/week = higher dose/intensity training) running has promise to be protective against OA (2). In a meta-analysis review by Alentorn-Geli et al. researchers filtered down to 17 studies with a total of 114, 829 people. They found only 3.5% of recreational runners had hip or knee arthritis, for both male and female runners. Individuals in the studies who were sedentary and did not run had a higher rate (10.2%) of hip or knee arthritis (1, 4). Even in people over 50 years old who have positive imaging (very normal as we age) and symptoms of OA have shown benefits to health and knee pain from ‘self-selected’ running (3). They were slower and amount of time ran was lower, but there was no progression of OA damage on joint imaging and even better, often improved pain. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/28e13974-a5db-4888-a178-52be8e07dc1d/2022-04-26+14_20_24-Knee+OA+newsletter+-+Google+Docs.png Blog - Knee OA: To run or not to run? - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/3e876700-e1e2-4127-8368-e86c12820b2c/unnamed.jpg Blog - Knee OA: To run or not to run? - What is Knee Osteoarthritis? What has historically created hesitation around running, is a concern about joint health. Particularly the coveted knees, and avoiding creating or progressing osteoarthritis (OA). Osteoarthritis is the most common joint disease, meaning progressive damage to the cushioning tissue (cartilage) at the end of our bones. OA can result in fluid buildup, abnormal bony growth and loosening and atrophy of muscle/ tendons. This may limit motion and cause pain. Most of us have heard someone express, “running is bad for your knees.” The trouble is this claim, while maybe said out of concern, is missing some truth. https://www.sapphirephysicaltherapy.com/blog/y4yg49v6z4zdlghim94m56dqw5zlzc monthly 0.5 2022-07-07 https://www.sapphirephysicaltherapy.com/blog/returning-to-run-postpartum monthly 0.5 2022-07-07 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/821e0bc2-6af8-449e-92a4-d1144a37f2a0/unnamed.jpg Blog - Returning to Run Postpartum - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.sapphirephysicaltherapy.com/blog/the-windlass-mechanism monthly 0.5 2022-07-07 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1645490889339-5MVU11ALXVRW7MEF62C0/windlass1.png Blog - The Windlass Mechanism &amp; Foot Function https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1645490864993-MSN38KC9D642UCWZQSUF/windlass.png Blog - The Windlass Mechanism &amp; Foot Function https://www.sapphirephysicaltherapy.com/blog/hamstring-strains monthly 0.5 2022-07-07 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1641773072319-05VVVOE66RGQ15128S5P/Photo_4_-_heel_press%5B1%5D.jpg Blog - Hamstring Strains: Reducing Risk &amp; Returning Faster https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1641774248630-FJNP4R0SQ077AYDDQLH0/Photo+11+-+Diver.PNG Blog - Hamstring Strains: Reducing Risk &amp; Returning Faster https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1641774248772-12K3SHP7DTDPE9950L6W/Photo+12+-+SL+airplane+RDL.PNG Blog - Hamstring Strains: Reducing Risk &amp; Returning Faster https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1641774264269-PT2T7353PQUO5ABP1FEW/Photo+13+-+SL+airplane+RDL.PNG Blog - Hamstring Strains: Reducing Risk &amp; Returning Faster https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1641774256890-R2WXWOGPN6TJJU3UG7RW/Photo+14+-+SL+airplane+RDL+with+weight.png Blog - Hamstring Strains: Reducing Risk &amp; Returning Faster https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1641774530976-BP289N230H7ESEWX21OL/Photo+18+-+Nordic+curls.png Blog - Hamstring Strains: Reducing Risk &amp; Returning Faster https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1641773947063-CYGAGV9I4G3NGZZF8704/Photo+6+and+7+-+DL+bridge+isometric+in+lengthened+range.jpg Blog - Hamstring Strains: Reducing Risk &amp; Returning Faster https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1641773907415-PQ5ZEMXUVG93KGOFCSY0/Photo+8+-+SL+bridging+on+ground.jpg Blog - Hamstring Strains: Reducing Risk &amp; Returning Faster https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1641773908347-AUODSSUK07P9BMLW2EDB/Photo+9+DL+bridge+on+chair.jpg Blog - Hamstring Strains: Reducing Risk &amp; Returning Faster https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1641773935253-YO4PIQHNWI9AZSPEDSU2/Photo+10+-+SL+bridging+on+chair.PNG Blog - Hamstring Strains: Reducing Risk &amp; Returning Faster https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1641774420970-AZTOXXI604VLKO37LHE4/Photo+15+-+Slider.png Blog - Hamstring Strains: Reducing Risk &amp; Returning Faster https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1641774420722-6Q0UMI0H0PONNFI9EPPT/Photo+16+-+Slider.png Blog - Hamstring Strains: Reducing Risk &amp; Returning Faster https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1641774470629-0VYLQTBZN3N8A2ADAXWQ/Photo+17+-+Slider.png Blog - Hamstring Strains: Reducing Risk &amp; Returning Faster https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1641771703224-RY5V3OKUEESWA0FBCUJZ/Photo_2_-_prone_hamstring_isometrics%5B1%5D.jpg Blog - Hamstring Strains: Reducing Risk &amp; Returning Faster https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1641771749263-PHXPN32OR412JA9O5UMY/Photo_3_-_prone_hamstring_isometric%5B1%5D.jpg Blog - Hamstring Strains: Reducing Risk &amp; Returning Faster https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1641773149795-5W4HLY431U26GQQJ5YMI/Photo_5_-_DL_bridge_isometric_in_neutral_range%5B1%5D.jpg Blog - Hamstring Strains: Reducing Risk &amp; Returning Faster https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1641773185322-HPXUUDTIS74A8I4AMXSZ/Photo_6_and_7_-_DL_bridge_isometric_in_lengthened_range%5B1%5D.jpg Blog - Hamstring Strains: Reducing Risk &amp; Returning Faster https://www.sapphirephysicaltherapy.com/blog/understanding-bppv monthly 0.5 2022-07-07 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/c8a71796-ae13-4856-b339-012b27145f58/erinIE.jpg Blog - Understanding Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo - Typical Presentation of BPPV: (Von Brevern, 2013) • Brief attacks of vertigo, lasting 10 to 60 seconds • Provoked by head movements • Turning over in bed • Lying down • Tilting head up or down (bending forward) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/b54f2fdd-f123-4d3b-833f-4218caaf8f11/erinear.jpg Blog - Understanding Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo Physical therapy can be helpful with recovering and managing vertigo. Vestibular therapy is value added for patients with peripheral disorders like, an inner ear hypofunction, Meniere’s Disease, Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), and more central disorders like vestibular migraine, persistent postural perceptual dizziness, post-concussion syndrome, and both central and peripheral, age-related dizziness and imbalance. https://www.sapphirephysicaltherapy.com/blog/office-ergonomics-amp-exercise-for-neck-pain-relief monthly 0.5 2022-07-07 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1641769590883-4MANHYULYCDGENRVDQ6J/jesseimage4.png Blog - Office Ergonomics &amp; Exercise For Neck Pain Relief https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1641769591102-DA5IARTV9V5DU4ST3G0E/jesseimage3.png Blog - Office Ergonomics &amp; Exercise For Neck Pain Relief https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1641769591589-6SM14ZSIN5LTR06KGHFR/jesseimage2.png Blog - Office Ergonomics &amp; Exercise For Neck Pain Relief https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1641769591868-C4BHXMMZQ0I5ROGVQ9VC/jesseimages1.png Blog - Office Ergonomics &amp; Exercise For Neck Pain Relief https://www.sapphirephysicaltherapy.com/blog/youve-got-your-back monthly 0.5 2022-07-07 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/7ea0a67f-849b-4d06-999a-39be98fa51fe/erin3.jpg Blog - You’ve Got Your Back! - Make it stand out Use hand to slide a big arch along wall so chest is facing the wall. Hold for several seconds. Then return to start and repeat. Trial 6 reps per side to start. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/593b54e7-e6c1-4ac9-9b5b-a83492099c4f/erin4.jpg Blog - You’ve Got Your Back! - Make it stand out Keep pressing out into the band while rolling foam roll up and back to start. Avoid arching low back. Try a couple sets of 12 reps to start. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/d000c040-6201-4854-a8bb-562856cccd2d/Erin2.jpg Blog - You’ve Got Your Back! - Make it stand out Place foam roller below shoulder blades, hands cradling head then gently fold back. Hold for several seconds then return to start. Can move foam roller farther up spine toward head for different areas of upper back. Avoid overarching the low back. Test out a couple sets of 6 reps to begin. https://www.sapphirephysicaltherapy.com/blog/fall-sapphire-physical-therapy-news-update monthly 0.5 2024-05-13 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1632345123061-A89J6TPRDBT7GTL154PD/1.png Blog - Fall Sapphire Physical Therapy News Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1632345123193-EX21129VPTO9ZNRLQ1N6/2.png Blog - Fall Sapphire Physical Therapy News Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1632345121211-9XVOBEHLB0OUHQKKYO62/4.png Blog - Fall Sapphire Physical Therapy News Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1632345121434-P17ZO82AGBS9R3W9RQ2M/3.png Blog - Fall Sapphire Physical Therapy News Update https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1632345332632-V5YNNER2E264V40VK3SD/5.jpg Blog - Fall Sapphire Physical Therapy News Update - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.sapphirephysicaltherapy.com/blog/improve-foot-function-to-reduce-injury-risk monthly 0.5 2022-07-07 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1633717058511-Z414T8QTSLAR0Q2ROYL4/orthotictable.jpg Blog - Improve Foot Function to Reduce Injury Risk - FOOT SUPPORT: Strong, mobile feet equal healthy feet with adequate support for running. Many of us, however, have feet which are less than ideal either due to genetics (thanks for the bunions Grandma), prior injury, or surgery history. In some cases, therefore, the use of an insole or custom orthotic may be needed to support the foot and ankle. A custom orthotic is a medical device with the goal of placing the foot and ankle in a neutral position. Activity goals, prior injury and medical history is factored into the design of each pair of custom orthotics. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1633718542046-F610YPGYXGGF38NO71TV/foot1.jpg Blog - Improve Foot Function to Reduce Injury Risk Focus on strengthening the medial and lateral ankle: tibialis posterior fibularis musculature become important as well to improve ankle stability and to avoid re-injury. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1632944481644-1JSEKCTR63P270V6ED4I/shutterstock_293549204.jpg Blog - Improve Foot Function to Reduce Injury Risk - FOOT ANATOMY: Understanding the foot and how to avoid a few common foot injuries will enable runners to run with confidence. The human foot contains 26 bones and nearly 100 joint surfaces. In addition, our feet absorb 2.5 to 5.0 times our body weight with each foot strike. The bones of the foot form three distinct structural and functional units. The rear foot is made up of the large calcaneus and talus. The rear foot is designed for weight bearing and articulates with the lower leg bones (tibia, fibula). The mid foot is made up of the navicular, talus, and cuneiform bones. The mid foot has a dual role. It absorbs shock during weight bearing and forms the stability we rely on (the arch) when pushing off to initiate the next step. The fore foot is made up of the five metatarsal bones and 14 bones in our toes (phalanges) and plays a role in terrain adaptation and balance. . https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1633716901129-8SWZAJJWXYM0NF0TZUDW/calf.jpg Blog - Improve Foot Function to Reduce Injury Risk - A progressive calf loading program tailored to your abilities and goals is a great place to start. A 31% reduction in calf muscle strength naturally occurs between the ages of 20 and 60 (DeVita, et al 2016), making lower leg, Achilles, and foot injuries more prevalent in runners over the age of 40. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1633718573363-6CSQOO7JH8F9DH6YG26N/foot2.jpg Blog - Improve Foot Function to Reduce Injury Risk - It is important to have a physical therapist evaluate your unique foot and ankle function: strength range of motion joint mobility tissue tension These elements are assessed and analyzed to create a strengthening-loading program which is specific to you. https://www.sapphirephysicaltherapy.com/blog/mid-to-late-30s-strength-training monthly 0.5 2022-07-07 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1631735655449-Z07IV2FMJUJ466LH3F4T/unnamed.jpg Blog - In Your Mid to Late 30s, or Older? You Need to Be Strength Training. - Make it stand out https://blog.nutrabio.com/2017/08/28/skeletal-muscle-the-difference-between-the-3-fiber-types/ https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1631736043660-FQM8LKBTTCJE5RAHOIKG/image+%281%29.png Blog - In Your Mid to Late 30s, or Older? You Need to Be Strength Training. - Make it stand out https://eliteclubs.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/characteristics-of-the-three-muscle-fiber-types.jpg https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1631736000010-6V8971DUC2TUS3UW4VNW/image+%282%29.png Blog - In Your Mid to Late 30s, or Older? You Need to Be Strength Training. - Make it stand out https://www.cdc.gov/physicalactivity/basics/adults/index.htm https://www.sapphirephysicaltherapy.com/blog/plyometric-training monthly 0.5 2022-07-07 https://www.sapphirephysicaltherapy.com/blog/constipation-tips-and-tricks monthly 0.5 2021-07-08 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1625698489667-K47TTL7CZMOJAAMVWB5U/Untitled+design+%283%29.png Blog - Constipation: Tips and Tricks - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1624906763001-PLIYUO0M7E06PRZCTJZB/Screen+Shot+2021-06-28+at+12.48.07+PM.png Blog - Constipation: Tips and Tricks https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1624906504962-I3FHVBF02W21WD6ZP27Z/Screen+Shot+2021-06-28+at+12.48.36+PM.png Blog - Constipation: Tips and Tricks - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.sapphirephysicaltherapy.com/blog/hot-topic-ice-after-injury monthly 0.5 2022-07-07 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1624320435655-S2BFNCFVFFEPSG56VVAO/Untitled+design.png Blog - Ice after injury? By Bailey Hewitt, PT, DPT https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1624317598878-0YI3MZ1UFDPVJD43MWTU/Screen-Shot-2019-04-25-at-2.58.47-PM.png Blog - Ice after injury? - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.sapphirephysicaltherapy.com/blog/addressing-lateral-hip-pain-in-runners monthly 0.5 2022-07-07 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1620390547035-YKR6LFPO4V5RTKZGATEW/unnamed+%2812%29.png Blog - Addressing lateral hip pain in runners https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1620390547170-UBMSJN6MF3SB5DS4PX4H/unnamed+%2811%29.png Blog - Addressing lateral hip pain in runners https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1620390197134-S5WNTW6ZX3CANZJNFOSF/unnamed+%283%29.png Blog - Addressing lateral hip pain in runners https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1620390766878-OV6ZG3NLJSK9F313PFSG/unnamed+%2820%29.png Blog - Addressing lateral hip pain in runners https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1620390767267-TMHKDRVSRGKZUJBOTI15/unnamed+%2819%29.png Blog - Addressing lateral hip pain in runners https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1620390137604-AXVYP39U5C9PQH6KA03J/unnamed+%282%29.png Blog - Addressing lateral hip pain in runners https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1620390812833-5HEJ27K1JXER0SQ7SKUV/unnamed+%2821%29.png Blog - Addressing lateral hip pain in runners https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1620390473424-P9N2D369RJVYEG5GRFT5/unnamed+%2810%29.png Blog - Addressing lateral hip pain in runners https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1620390473480-6PF1Y4T9U0Q6V7HZ51EE/unnamed+%289%29.png Blog - Addressing lateral hip pain in runners https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1620390284598-VWA8XVAFY2O4R54PZXG1/unnamed+%286%29.png Blog - Addressing lateral hip pain in runners https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1620390284597-ICX2ZK650J66SG90R20C/unnamed+%285%29.png Blog - Addressing lateral hip pain in runners https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1620390285653-8D300FJM65ET9I8USLS7/unnamed+%284%29.png Blog - Addressing lateral hip pain in runners https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1620390703981-L3MAOFQMK4FQ1XGD78B2/unnamed+%2818%29.png Blog - Addressing lateral hip pain in runners https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1620390704006-9RGMDSXMEM0S685KQM1S/unnamed+%2817%29.png Blog - Addressing lateral hip pain in runners https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1620390704837-J8MRNQEPE3K4ARC7Q7WA/unnamed+%2816%29.png Blog - Addressing lateral hip pain in runners https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1620390381537-PJAD5AQDXHFWWY31Q6JF/unnamed+%288%29.png Blog - Addressing lateral hip pain in runners https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1620390381597-BQZERL2FJPQHL5K023FY/unnamed+%287%29.png Blog - Addressing lateral hip pain in runners https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1620390627759-G84CLEZ7TZO6N4UW4OY6/unnamed+%2815%29.png Blog - Addressing lateral hip pain in runners https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1620390627955-A1DPNPLA72688T37VLDD/unnamed+%2814%29.png Blog - Addressing lateral hip pain in runners https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1620390628573-01DESKOUGDZKMNQRYNTH/unnamed+%2813%29.png Blog - Addressing lateral hip pain in runners https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1620390113716-00R8YK06R4UP9C9DW0RF/unnamed+%281%29.png Blog - Addressing lateral hip pain in runners https://www.sapphirephysicaltherapy.com/blog/manual-therapy-pt monthly 0.5 2021-06-10 https://www.sapphirephysicaltherapy.com/blog/return-to-sport-after-acl-injury-cue-chaos monthly 0.5 2023-01-19 https://www.sapphirephysicaltherapy.com/blog/evidence-for-exercise monthly 0.5 2023-01-19 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1615158956329-TD8DTBZBXNS1DFNAC4EY/unnamed+%281%29.jpg Blog - Evidence for Exercise https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1615158956324-UORT6H0B0XAFNC91CKW6/unnamed+%282%29.jpg Blog - Evidence for Exercise https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1615158957966-3LK3BUN6GICZ1JP437JP/unnamed+%283%29.jpg Blog - Evidence for Exercise https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1615158958796-FL20ILBB47WV78A2NGZU/unnamed.jpg Blog - Evidence for Exercise https://www.sapphirephysicaltherapy.com/blog/the-time-to-improve-foot-function-is-now monthly 0.5 2021-06-10 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1614188518324-21SLS3L6D6MUXW5X9MN4/image+%289%29.png Blog - The Time to Improve Foot Function is Now https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1614188517880-K0ZF1X51ZIOYE1TNLONI/image+%288%29.png Blog - The Time to Improve Foot Function is Now https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1614188525004-JZE9T5EIB9NXQLU1B5VN/image+%286%29.png Blog - The Time to Improve Foot Function is Now https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1614188524165-C3KNG8FW3NLL5OD2IGCA/image+%287%29.png Blog - The Time to Improve Foot Function is Now https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1614188530733-AEI8ECR0H97N19B2I5A3/image+%284%29.png Blog - The Time to Improve Foot Function is Now https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1614188538365-VNQLTW2GZJ6102D71R4A/image+%282%29.png Blog - The Time to Improve Foot Function is Now https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1614188531611-70XAOT6T1VTHOLMHWP8R/image+%283%29.png Blog - The Time to Improve Foot Function is Now https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1614188538970-FA9UQ6Y4CI70TA1HUKQ4/image+%281%29.png Blog - The Time to Improve Foot Function is Now https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1614188542603-LSMAMJOQTBX3E107FKZN/image.png Blog - The Time to Improve Foot Function is Now https://www.sapphirephysicaltherapy.com/blog/sapphire-physical-therapy-takes-over-montana-pedorthics-practice monthly 0.5 2023-01-19 https://www.sapphirephysicaltherapy.com/blog/injuredworkers monthly 0.5 2022-07-07 https://www.sapphirephysicaltherapy.com/blog/aclr monthly 0.5 2022-07-07 https://www.sapphirephysicaltherapy.com/blog/fall-ski-specific-training monthly 0.5 2022-07-07 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1603459275369-WB5MKCNA1NIQOVB5QQUC/jski.jpg Blog - Fall Ski Specific Training to Reduce Injury Risk and Increase Enjoyment https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1603459317938-AOX7Z8I72LGRKMU4XXV9/JohnKB.jpg Blog - Fall Ski Specific Training to Reduce Injury Risk and Increase Enjoyment https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1603459361072-E9MRMWFWF0B7ATJUOKGT/snow1.jpg Blog - Fall Ski Specific Training to Reduce Injury Risk and Increase Enjoyment https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1603459318138-I22RKI33NI1OUMYFOH56/johnRDL.jpg Blog - Fall Ski Specific Training to Reduce Injury Risk and Increase Enjoyment https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1603459520185-OCDRMI5AX5T4CT81BLCI/image6.jpg Blog - Fall Ski Specific Training to Reduce Injury Risk and Increase Enjoyment https://www.sapphirephysicaltherapy.com/blog/expanded-space monthly 0.5 2022-07-07 https://www.sapphirephysicaltherapy.com/blog/acl-coper-protocol monthly 0.5 2023-01-19 https://www.sapphirephysicaltherapy.com/blog/pelvichealth monthly 0.5 2023-01-19 https://www.sapphirephysicaltherapy.com/home daily 1.0 2024-08-05 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1593796098337-OS1U6OSATQ9547EAT6L5/shutterstock_1372773569.jpg Home https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1598301011683-CPHWP76MD8SOD4IG0OWT/Rut2018VK%252B%2525283%252529.jpg Home Sapphire Running Analysis https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1596061185068-7Y4QZGSPQPH7KCGS4XVX/photo.png Home https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/4a8f18ce-d4e2-4d82-adb5-20d45fe4b02d/T+SHIRT+GROUP+PHOTO+2.jpg Home https://www.sapphirephysicaltherapy.com/certifications-approaches daily 0.75 2024-11-20 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1619634663654-HNARCHTJG2OOTCXEP4XG/20210428_122759.jpg Certifications & Approaches Therapists at Sapphire are encouraged to pursue their interests in delivering the highest quality of care to their patients. Specialized certifications: Integrated Dry Needling (IDN): John Fiore and Jesse Dupre Orthopaedic Manual Therapy (NAIOMT): Jesse Dupre Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS): Ben Blakely and Andrew Traver LSVT Big: Aly Freitag Institute of Clinical Excellence - Pelvic Level 1 and 2: Aly Freitag https://www.sapphirephysicaltherapy.com/functional-capacity-evaluation daily 0.75 2025-05-14 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1589840029541-X12NZHZXBHZDYEMBS3J9/DSC_0127+%281%29.JPG Functional Capacity Evaluation Our FCEs focus on answering case resolution-relevant questions. In doing this, the evaluator plays a role in matching injured workers to viable, long term vocations. Together our evaluators have successfully completed more than 250 FCEs over the past 20 years. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/dd7e30b8-7491-4bdb-8fa5-c49a47354212/John+New+Headshot.jpg Functional Capacity Evaluation https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/2600b380-26b8-40ef-b448-dc509c2540ca/Jesse+New+Headshot.jpg Functional Capacity Evaluation https://www.sapphirephysicaltherapy.com/new-patient-forms daily 0.75 2024-11-20 https://www.sapphirephysicaltherapy.com/neck-back-injury-rehabilitation daily 0.75 2025-05-14 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1587147728583-6LW0X94PCF6H4O5VUL7D/DSC_0123+%281%29.JPG Neck & Back Rehabilitation Our physical therapists specialize in treating a wide range of neck and back conditions, from muscle strains and herniated discs to chronic pain and post-surgery recovery. Through a combination of targeted exercises, manual therapy, and education, we work to strengthen the muscles that support your spine, improve mobility, and develop confidence in your abilities. Our goal is to help you reduce pain and restore function, so you can enjoy a more active lifestyle. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1615835879494-B03GXLFZFSUYUO7GA23S/shutterstock_736413019.jpg Neck & Back Rehabilitation - Conditions we treat: Disc degeneration/herniation Spinal Stenosis Whiplash related injuries Headaches Spondylolisthesis Thoracic Outlet Syndrome https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/dd7e30b8-7491-4bdb-8fa5-c49a47354212/John+New+Headshot.jpg Neck & Back Rehabilitation https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/2600b380-26b8-40ef-b448-dc509c2540ca/Jesse+New+Headshot.jpg Neck & Back Rehabilitation https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1a032723-1725-49b7-b540-fcd6bc9ec51b/Ben+New+Headshot.jpg Neck & Back Rehabilitation https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/ee4bad03-7af7-46d4-9ea9-8f2367b7d87e/Andrew+New+Headshot.jpg Neck & Back Rehabilitation https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/3963e330-5eb9-487d-86c1-a2fa993f2841/Aly+New+Headshot.jpg Neck & Back Rehabilitation https://www.sapphirephysicaltherapy.com/sports-injury-rehabilitation daily 0.75 2025-05-14 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1605543652745-8P7JGIL20PRGQVF7I2FF/VID_20200830_094415_Moment2.jpg Sports Injury Rehabilitation - Return to Sport We understand the importance of sport-specific strengthening & movement re-training for proper mechanics and coordination for return to sport following a period of injury. We use functional testing and movement analysis to compose an individualized plan for pain-free return to sport with minimized risk of re-injury. Our physical therapy staff includes competitive trail runners, cyclists, nordic and alpine skiers, recreational climbers and post collegiate soccer athlete. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1587146454156-OAS3UHQ0TNVAYICQATZ4/image+%286%29.png Sports Injury Rehabilitation - Specialties Include: Running Nordic & Alpine Skiing Cycling (Road, Mountain, Cyclocross) Soccer Football Baseball Return to Sport https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1609802541277-DAYTJ06UC2ZGOBKOLZY2/shutterstock_736413019.jpg Sports Injury Rehabilitation - Common Injuries Treated: Ankle Sprains Hamstring Strains Groin Strains ACL Tears Tennis Elbow Anterior Knee Pain https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/dd7e30b8-7491-4bdb-8fa5-c49a47354212/John+New+Headshot.jpg Sports Injury Rehabilitation https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/2600b380-26b8-40ef-b448-dc509c2540ca/Jesse+New+Headshot.jpg Sports Injury Rehabilitation https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1a032723-1725-49b7-b540-fcd6bc9ec51b/Ben+New+Headshot.jpg Sports Injury Rehabilitation https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/ee4bad03-7af7-46d4-9ea9-8f2367b7d87e/Andrew+New+Headshot.jpg Sports Injury Rehabilitation https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/3963e330-5eb9-487d-86c1-a2fa993f2841/Aly+New+Headshot.jpg Sports Injury Rehabilitation https://www.sapphirephysicaltherapy.com/telehealth-options daily 0.75 2020-11-16 https://www.sapphirephysicaltherapy.com/workrelated-rehabilitation daily 0.75 2025-05-14 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1588260362348-DLHCSH61RSU1TNZ2DB80/worker-safety-350.jpg Work-Related Rehabilitation Physical conditioning programs are designed based on worker abilities and job analysis to simulate specific job or industry related tasks with a controlled progression to help improve physical tolerances, promote smooth transition back to work, and reduce the risk of re-injury. Comprehensive, individualized treatment plans include manual therapy and exercise to address the injured worker’s needs and to aid in recovery from injury and help expedite return to work. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/dd7e30b8-7491-4bdb-8fa5-c49a47354212/John+New+Headshot.jpg Work-Related Rehabilitation https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/2600b380-26b8-40ef-b448-dc509c2540ca/Jesse+New+Headshot.jpg Work-Related Rehabilitation https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1a032723-1725-49b7-b540-fcd6bc9ec51b/Ben+New+Headshot.jpg Work-Related Rehabilitation https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/ee4bad03-7af7-46d4-9ea9-8f2367b7d87e/Andrew+New+Headshot.jpg Work-Related Rehabilitation https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/3963e330-5eb9-487d-86c1-a2fa993f2841/Aly+New+Headshot.jpg Work-Related Rehabilitation https://www.sapphirephysicaltherapy.com/pre-post-operative-rehabilitation daily 0.75 2025-05-14 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1597265085691-CDGCJVU0VA2XL3D977DO/image-asset.jpeg Pre & Post Operative Rehabilitation - Common Conditions Treated: Joint Replacements and Revisions ACL Reconstruction Knee Arthroscopy Spinal Fusions Laminectomy Rotator Cuff Repair https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/dd7e30b8-7491-4bdb-8fa5-c49a47354212/John+New+Headshot.jpg Pre & Post Operative Rehabilitation https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/2600b380-26b8-40ef-b448-dc509c2540ca/Jesse+New+Headshot.jpg Pre & Post Operative Rehabilitation https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1a032723-1725-49b7-b540-fcd6bc9ec51b/Ben+New+Headshot.jpg Pre & Post Operative Rehabilitation https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/ee4bad03-7af7-46d4-9ea9-8f2367b7d87e/Andrew+New+Headshot.jpg Pre & Post Operative Rehabilitation https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/3963e330-5eb9-487d-86c1-a2fa993f2841/Aly+New+Headshot.jpg Pre & Post Operative Rehabilitation https://www.sapphirephysicaltherapy.com/custom-foot-orthotics daily 0.75 2021-12-13 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1608664043144-URMBIMOL513ZD8KIC0KQ/scanner1.jpg Custom Foot Orthotics https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/67294925-ba06-4305-b0bc-815cb68a3dcc/orthotics+ad.jpg Custom Foot Orthotics https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1608663475605-G9F8QM5DTO8J1Q142COK/Orthotics+Logo.png Custom Foot Orthotics https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1633967568606-KEKG1QG0QWNQXAFIVNL5/orthoticslab.png Custom Foot Orthotics - Sapphire Physical Therapy continues to expand our custom foot orthotic business. John has been focusing on growing the orthotic portion of the business, serving the Missoula, Bitterroot, Mission, and Flathead valleys. As a physical therapist with twenty-eight years of experience and an avid trail runner, skier, and cyclist, John understands the importance of thorough evaluation and accuracy to create the best possible orthotic. John continues to serve Marvin Walchuk’s customers following his retirement. Utilizing Amfit 3D digital scanning software technology, our custom orthotics are accurate and can be modified to address the support and activity demands of the individual regardless of medical comorbidities. Our on-site orthotic state-of-the-art mill and on-site shop ensure orthotic accuracy and fabrication efficiency. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/7408db6c-f1cf-4371-8810-16e99142ca0c/orthotics.jpg Custom Foot Orthotics - Custom insoles and orthotics allow individuals who spend a great deal of time on their feet the support necessary to improve their pain-free activity level. Lifestyle, prior injury history, surgical history, or structural changes may warrant increased foot and ankle support. Amfit technology ensures unparalleled results. Our on-site orthotic mill means your orthotics are ready in a few days, not a few weeks. John’s understanding of foot and ankle anatomy, gait evaluation, and treatment of musculoskeletal injuries compliments his commitment to creating the highest quality custom foot orthotics available. From elite athletes to individuals with chronic pain, John is able to evaluate movement and recommend an orthotic to reduce pain and improve performance. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1608494228865-OFUXYK0UWIWJFP1B7TDZ/Patient%2BWindow%2B%25281%2529.jpg Custom Foot Orthotics https://www.sapphirephysicaltherapy.com/insurance-information daily 0.75 2024-11-20 https://www.sapphirephysicaltherapy.com/runningservices daily 0.75 2025-05-14 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1586807960301-QSCT8JQ150GHO765JV5H/Screen+Shot+2020-04-13+at+1.56.52+PM.png Running Services https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1595532316648-X90TN076KVATE64ZRHK9/20200708_170646.jpg Running Services - Optimizing through Exercise Our therapists are runners themselves. They will design an exercise program specific to your injury, and to build the strength needed to handle the impact forces of running. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/dd7e30b8-7491-4bdb-8fa5-c49a47354212/John+New+Headshot.jpg Running Services https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1a032723-1725-49b7-b540-fcd6bc9ec51b/Ben+New+Headshot.jpg Running Services https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/ee4bad03-7af7-46d4-9ea9-8f2367b7d87e/Andrew+New+Headshot.jpg Running Services https://www.sapphirephysicaltherapy.com/foot-ankle-injury-rehabilitation daily 0.75 2025-05-14 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1587148589679-RYCA78ZO5RPB9K9SUR28/Screen+Shot+2020-04-09+at+3.25.29+PM.png Foot & Ankle Injury Rehabilitation - We understand the crucial role that mobile, and strong feet, ankles, and lower legs play in supporting overall movement and well-being. Whether you’re recovering from a sprain, surgery, or simply looking to enhance your abilities, we focus on strengthening and improving mobility to ensure your lower extremities can withstand the daily demands and impact of activities like walking, running, and sports. We’re here to help you get back on your feet and moving better than ever. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1604946063061-VWUK2XRM9ILO3V71J101/image-asset.jpeg Foot & Ankle Injury Rehabilitation - Common Conditions Treated: Arthritis Plantar Fasciitis Achilles Tendinitis/Tendinopathy Stress Fractures/Bone Stress Injuries Ankle Sprains Shin Splints https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/dd7e30b8-7491-4bdb-8fa5-c49a47354212/John+New+Headshot.jpg Foot & Ankle Injury Rehabilitation https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/2600b380-26b8-40ef-b448-dc509c2540ca/Jesse+New+Headshot.jpg Foot & Ankle Injury Rehabilitation https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1a032723-1725-49b7-b540-fcd6bc9ec51b/Ben+New+Headshot.jpg Foot & Ankle Injury Rehabilitation https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/ee4bad03-7af7-46d4-9ea9-8f2367b7d87e/Andrew+New+Headshot.jpg Foot & Ankle Injury Rehabilitation https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/3963e330-5eb9-487d-86c1-a2fa993f2841/Aly+New+Headshot.jpg Foot & Ankle Injury Rehabilitation https://www.sapphirephysicaltherapy.com/john-fiore-pt daily 0.75 2022-10-25 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/b4b26730-10f2-4888-b156-318e95e94cf8/image11.jpeg John Fiore, PT https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1586467928739-GYGA6QSTBNEXX40IR57F/John-skimo-21.jpg John Fiore, PT https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1632345121434-P17ZO82AGBS9R3W9RQ2M/3.png John Fiore, PT https://www.sapphirephysicaltherapy.com/community-outreach-1 daily 0.75 2020-11-23 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1586806175946-5UIFPOBI9NDBJQB3RPNQ/Rut2019SPTsponsor.jpg Community Outreach https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1605545591955-B4ESL1HU49CFWBPDEEFZ/rwm-website-logo_200.png Community Outreach https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1605545683931-UO43VD7MV1FNXTTP6DP2/runnersedgemt.jpg Community Outreach https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1605544933953-VAWTRHITGNAPJBQE431M/five-valleys-land-trust.jpg Community Outreach https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1591734944284-1M7K34K3V5FOBAN8SIH2/camp-mak-a-dream.jpg Community Outreach https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1591735009137-BC2BRRYAKTQMYVGTGYZ7/download.png Community Outreach https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1605544933953-VAWTRHITGNAPJBQE431M/five-valleys-land-trust.jpg Community Outreach https://www.sapphirephysicaltherapy.com/andrew-traver-pt-dpt-final daily 0.75 2024-09-04 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/85286ba3-4409-49e7-8101-0902586eae53/Andrew+Traver+lifestyle+Fishing+with+Dog.jpg Andrew Traver, PT, DPT https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/b3b6fea6-0d54-415e-8f3b-4d4da7fcc24b/Andrew+Traver+Lifestyle+waterfall.jpeg Andrew Traver, PT, DPT https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/2b1f01d5-b8d0-4ad4-9894-4cf09bcd4a8a/Andrew+Traver+lifestyle+family.jpeg Andrew Traver, PT, DPT https://www.sapphirephysicaltherapy.com/bethany-jakubik daily 0.75 2024-06-06 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/b673cbbc-6dff-4043-b9b9-638863559d91/beth.png Bethany Jakubik - Bethany Jakubik, Physical Therapy Aide Bethany moved to Missoula in 1995 to continue her undergraduate studies as a Resource Conservation major. After Graduation, she explored many different locations in the western US and Mexico before settling into her position at Sapphire PT as a PT Technician/Aide since 2016. She is also a licensed Veterinary technician (LVT) and recently obtained her CCAT (Certified Companion Animal Therapist) through NC State. She is responsible for aiding the DPTs in documentation, operating the running analysis system, ordering supplies/equipment maintenance, assisting with orthotic documentation/equipment, and ensuring SPT is a clean, safe, green environment for everyone. Bethany enjoys everything outdoors and you can find her on the trails in the summer mountain biking and trail running and in winter on the xc ski trails around Missoula with her 2 dogs and partner, Marc. She is on the MT Alpha board of directors which encourages women/girls in the sport of cycling and community outreach among many other efforts. Also, she has volunteered at spay/neuter clinics in the southern US and Mexico. https://www.sapphirephysicaltherapy.com/our-team daily 0.75 2025-05-14 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/3963e330-5eb9-487d-86c1-a2fa993f2841/Aly+New+Headshot.jpg Our Team https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/ee4bad03-7af7-46d4-9ea9-8f2367b7d87e/Andrew+New+Headshot.jpg Our Team https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/dd7e30b8-7491-4bdb-8fa5-c49a47354212/John+New+Headshot.jpg Our Team https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/2600b380-26b8-40ef-b448-dc509c2540ca/Jesse+New+Headshot.jpg Our Team https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1a032723-1725-49b7-b540-fcd6bc9ec51b/Ben+New+Headshot.jpg Our Team https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/9e6d1844-07d1-4bf9-a252-ed2466f41c41/Bethany+New+Headshot.jpg Our Team https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/e69551d6-f146-4fcb-8e74-f28a7c430818/Kaylee+New+Headshot.jpg Our Team https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/e0d4a840-d250-4e77-b87c-6782434e3e10/Aimee+New+Headshot.jpg Our Team https://www.sapphirephysicaltherapy.com/aly-freitag-pt-dpt daily 0.75 2024-06-05 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/4d122fa5-45e9-4746-86c6-b716e3169b74/image0+%282%29.jpeg Aly Freitag, PT, DPT https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1fc4065d-c812-414d-b7c4-bc7b45591221/image1+%282%29.jpg Aly Freitag, PT, DPT https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/7119a5ea-971f-472e-b0ce-a740e603b5f6/DSC03944+%281%29.jpg Aly Freitag, PT, DPT https://www.sapphirephysicaltherapy.com/pay-your-bill-1 daily 0.75 2020-09-15 https://www.sapphirephysicaltherapy.com/what-to-expect daily 0.75 2023-01-19 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1589840029541-X12NZHZXBHZDYEMBS3J9/DSC_0127+%281%29.JPG What to Expect Your first appointment will entail a comprehensive evaluation, goal setting, treatment, education about your condition, and follow-up communication regarding your progress. https://www.sapphirephysicaltherapy.com/contact-us daily 0.75 2024-04-17 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/defb8ae0-1a70-4a8f-befb-fa98dc1c72ec/back+squat+3.png Contact Us https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1684884323607-YL25NHQKBZ605YAYH9Q4/image+%2810%29.png Contact Us https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1676341184769-9L2NAUTLG2CPNIYQCL77/technical+mountain+running.jpg Contact Us https://www.sapphirephysicaltherapy.com/404-home daily 0.75 2020-09-15 https://www.sapphirephysicaltherapy.com/pelvic-floor-health daily 0.75 2025-05-14 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1596743463508-AJ3CAWSSLS0ACJ3NGZVN/shutterstock_648954535.jpg Pelvic Health - Pelvic floor pain and dysfunction occurs in large percentage of women. Incontinence alone affects 60% of women! Physical therapy can help with pelvic pain, bladder and bowel incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, and pain with intercourse. Our pelvic floor specialist, Aly Freitag PT, DPT, will work with you to develop a personalized plan of care to best serve your needs. Don’t let incontinence or pain decrease your quality of life! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1732233295894-84J9U0O4IFEQR8PV9HEL/unsplash-image-mrY3CX8kL0w.jpg Pelvic Health - Conditions we treat: Pre- and Post-Natal Care Postpartum Care of Athletes and Return-to-Sport Training Diastasis Recti Painful Intercourse/Dyspareunia Pelvic Pain Tailbone/Coccyx Pain Urinary Incontinence, Frequency, or Urgency Prolapse Constipation https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/3963e330-5eb9-487d-86c1-a2fa993f2841/Aly+New+Headshot.jpg Pelvic Health https://www.sapphirephysicaltherapy.com/friends-of-sapphire daily 0.75 2024-11-20 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1597258543179-9G6117CNKVTI7K5CKW8Q/AngiMcClure.jpg Friends of Sapphire - Angi McClure, Body401k® Angi is the creator and founder of Body401k®, the body longevity company, and Bamboo Bodies® fitness classes. Her innovative and witty approach to fitness is not your usual bootcamp, weight-loss, tone-up method of movement. Nor is it yoga. Angi incorporates Qigong exercises & massage, neuro-based movement, and internal energy training to influence positive change in the body and mind. She teaches fitness with a balanced ideology of holistic wellness that anyone can relate to and enjoy. Her fun and innovative teaching manner helps get you moving and thinking differently. Angi focuses on smart, safe and balanced movement to keep you moving now and in the future. Her mission is to make people aware of the tools and options for balanced movement, self-care, nutrition, and other lifestyle choices. https://www.sapphirephysicaltherapy.com/strengthandconditioning daily 0.75 2025-05-14 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/7121a7d5-9feb-471e-9de1-13c0e2592709/Mark+Class+Photo.jpg Strength and Conditioning Classes - Our classes are geared toward runners and endurance sports enthusiasts alike as well as those interested in learning to incorporate strength training into their lives. This course consists of heavy resistance & plyometric exercises. This includes pre & post strength testing measures for proven results. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/63aac5a2-deaa-4b84-a66e-cbf13adab3dc/Ghea+Squat.jpg Strength and Conditioning Classes Two guided 8-week strength & conditioning courses that meet twice a week. All are led by physical therapists. Whether you're looking to improve your athletic performance or simply want to boost your daily functional movements, our classes offer personalized instruction and careful attention to technique. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/b61e77e2-4e9a-43cd-ac77-8869d76fb4ec/Strength+Classes+Graph+Fall+2024.jpg Strength and Conditioning Classes - “Sapphire PT’s strength class is such an incredible program! I was able to build strength and confidence in a variety of exercises. I highly recommend this class for anyone that wants to get stronger.” “Strength class at Sapphire PT was incredibly valuable to me! I loved how we tracked our gains throughout the class and it was amazing to see the strength improvements everyone made by the end. The class felt like a very safe and supportive place to improve my strength, and I especially appreciated the way the PTs customized the exercises to be safe for my injuries. As a bonus, I left the class with an improved ability to design my own workouts in the future. Highly recommend it!” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1a032723-1725-49b7-b540-fcd6bc9ec51b/Ben+New+Headshot.jpg Strength and Conditioning Classes https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/ee4bad03-7af7-46d4-9ea9-8f2367b7d87e/Andrew+New+Headshot.jpg Strength and Conditioning Classes https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/3963e330-5eb9-487d-86c1-a2fa993f2841/Aly+New+Headshot.jpg Strength and Conditioning Classes https://www.sapphirephysicaltherapy.com/events daily 0.75 2025-08-19 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ec321c2af33de48734cc929/1607694644871-IC85FNH781UNZSZEGHDR/Aro+Ha_0428.jpg Events https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ec321c2af33de48734cc929/1589847743861-GWVMBPD7Z7WQRQL9IZZ8/Large+JPG-Aro+Ha_0380.jpg Events https://www.sapphirephysicaltherapy.com/return-to-sport-testing daily 0.75 2025-05-14 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/c765bc3e-3c88-4ac8-a5fa-bdcd07907ead/IMG_3988.jpg Return to Sport Testing - Hand-held Dynamometry Dynamometry will give your physical therapist the most objective information regarding your muscular strength. This is especially important for when you are recovering from surgery. We need this objective data when determining if you are strong enough to return to work or sport. Quad strength (demonstrated in picture) is a staple for assessing your ability to return to running or readiness for sport following knee surgery. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/ab70c3a7-4e41-494a-8a3e-d1e186b15ff9/IMG_4015.jpg Return to Sport Testing Y-Balance Test https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/48d61e55-88bc-44ff-81f2-e3325514e92a/IMG_4021.jpg Return to Sport Testing Triple Hop Test https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1615158958796-FL20ILBB47WV78A2NGZU/unnamed.jpg Return to Sport Testing https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1661808712939-2TJOAL488WLTTOTS5IY7/running.jpg Return to Sport Testing https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1661808769783-N4ZEFTHM2ZLIX0JGXU93/unsplash-image-buWcS7G1_28.jpg Return to Sport Testing https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1653453550546-CG6DBS44J3MJCSW32IOO/image4.jpeg Return to Sport Testing https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1a032723-1725-49b7-b540-fcd6bc9ec51b/Ben+New+Headshot.jpg Return to Sport Testing https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/ee4bad03-7af7-46d4-9ea9-8f2367b7d87e/Andrew+New+Headshot.jpg Return to Sport Testing https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/3963e330-5eb9-487d-86c1-a2fa993f2841/Aly+New+Headshot.jpg Return to Sport Testing https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/45126612-d263-4933-add9-f21f8489c30e/4BAEB6D4-C192-4A29-AD75-98A3A0C1CE66_1_105_c.jpeg Return to Sport Testing Pinch Grip Dynamometry https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/b1c622cd-e336-4b45-bb5a-f0d139af31de/IMG_3992.jpg Return to Sport Testing Hip Abduction Dynamometry https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/156b900d-19f0-47cf-be13-b34a894a1079/IMG_4002.jpg Return to Sport Testing Shoulder External Rotation Dynamometry https://www.sapphirephysicaltherapy.com/ben-blakely-pt-dpt daily 0.75 2024-10-23 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/e0e931f4-eb3d-4622-901d-057040f3f370/image2+%283%29.jpeg Ben Blakely, PT, DPT - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/6697ec4a-5268-4c97-a5df-6d2c70c6510e/bb3.jpg Ben Blakely, PT, DPT - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/a1c48c45-1be5-4fde-ab36-19e190dcc18e/IMG_4505.jpg Ben Blakely, PT, DPT - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.sapphirephysicaltherapy.com/dry-needling daily 0.75 2025-05-14 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1665014060990-TYVME8GUG8LO1ZU6PDYX/unsplash-image-QgcdtM9rA5s.jpg Dry Needling - WHAT IS INTEGRATIVE DRY NEEDLING? Integrative dry needling (IDN) is based in part on ancient acupuncture needling methods AND modern neurophysiology and cellular biology to facilitate healing. It consists of the use of thin filament needles to stimulate healing of tissue. The insertion of the needle creates a cascade of input to the spinal cord and brain, signaling the body to activate the self-healing mechanisms to restore tissue healing and body homeostasis. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/dd7e30b8-7491-4bdb-8fa5-c49a47354212/John+New+Headshot.jpg Dry Needling https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/2600b380-26b8-40ef-b448-dc509c2540ca/Jesse+New+Headshot.jpg Dry Needling https://www.sapphirephysicaltherapy.com/contact-thank-you daily 0.75 2024-04-25 https://www.sapphirephysicaltherapy.com/aimee-meinzen daily 0.75 2025-01-20 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/73affcee-9381-4888-bf87-2d59affd53e5/aimee.jpg Aimee - Aimee Meinzen, Admin Assistant Aimee was born and raised in Lolo, MT. She now resides in Stevensville, MT with her significant other, Keith, and their spoiled Frenchton named Moose. She has one daughter and one stepdaughter and three beautiful grandchildren and absolutely loves being a grandma! She has worked in the admin medical field for many years and loves Sapphire PT so much she commutes the Bitterroot 500 on a daily basis. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with family, camping, fishing, hiking, horseback riding, and anything else in the great outdoors. https://www.sapphirephysicaltherapy.com/kaylee-stanke daily 0.75 2025-01-20 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/bed884fc-7c6b-47c8-85d9-ee13ff3eb2d8/Kaylee+Headshot.jpg Kaylee - Kaylee Stanke, Admin Assistant Kaylee was born and raised in Missoula before moving to Portland, Oregon to study criminology. The beautiful mountains and Big Sky called her back in 2014 where she has been working in medical admin ever since. Outside of work, Kaylee has four amazing children that keep her busy. In the summer, you can find her floating the rivers, camping, or playing on the lake. In the winter, you can catch her at a Griz game or cheering on her favorite NFL team. https://www.sapphirephysicaltherapy.com/reviews-1 daily 0.75 2025-10-27 https://www.sapphirephysicaltherapy.com/shockwave-therapy daily 0.75 2026-01-12 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/8a873916-fb17-4113-806a-1999e2aa74a0/Shockwave+-+Diagram.png Shockwave Therapy ESWT is thought to work by sending percussive energy waves through body tissues. ESWT facilitates healing by reducing inflammation & stimulating cell regeneration at the site of pain or injury. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/dd7e30b8-7491-4bdb-8fa5-c49a47354212/John+New+Headshot.jpg Shockwave Therapy https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/2600b380-26b8-40ef-b448-dc509c2540ca/Jesse+New+Headshot.jpg Shockwave Therapy https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/1a032723-1725-49b7-b540-fcd6bc9ec51b/Ben+New+Headshot.jpg Shockwave Therapy https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/ee4bad03-7af7-46d4-9ea9-8f2367b7d87e/Andrew+New+Headshot.jpg Shockwave Therapy https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e7b8a2ca646743d944df127/3963e330-5eb9-487d-86c1-a2fa993f2841/Aly+New+Headshot.jpg Shockwave Therapy