Understanding Shin Splints in Running, Gymnastics and Sports Shin splints are one of the most common injuries seen in athletes, particularly those involved in high-impact sports like running, gymnastics and basketball. While they often start as a minor ache, shin splints can quickly progress to impacting performance and turning into a stress fracture if not READ MORE
Author: Dr. Charles Baldi PT, DPT
Mobile doctor of physical therapy in Montgomery County, PA.
Labrum, Rotator Cuff…or Neck?
Signs of Referred Shoulder Pain If I had a nickel for every time I fixed someone’s shoulder pain in just two visits after they’d seen multiple clinicians for over a year with no improvement, I’d have 10 cents. But still—twice? That’s wild. And in both cases, the same mistake had been made: they were being READ MORE
Preventing and Managing Lower Back Pain in Gymnastics and Sports
Lower back pain is a common issue among gymnasts, cheerleaders, and athletes who perform repeated lifting, leaning, and twisting. Movements that require spinal hyperextension such as back handsprings and walkovers, and skills that place a lot of force through the spine such as landings and rebounds place significant stress on the lower back. Understanding how READ MORE
Preventing and Treating Knee Injuries in Gymnastics and Sports
Knee injuries are a major concern for gymnasts, cheerleaders, and athletes involved in high-impact sports. The constant jumping, landing, and rapid changes in direction put immense strain on the knees, increasing the risk of conditions like ACL injuries, patellar tendonitis, and patellofemoral pain syndrome. Understanding how to prevent and manage knee injuries is essential for READ MORE
Preventing and Managing Wrist and Elbow Pain in Gymnastics and Sports
Wrist and elbow pain are common issues for gymnasts, cheerleaders, and other athletes who rely on upper body strength for weight-bearing skills. From handstands to vaulting and tumbling, the repeated impact and strain on these joints can lead to discomfort and injury. Understanding how to prevent and manage wrist and elbow pain is essential for READ MORE
Preventing and Recovering from Ankle Sprains in Gymnastics and Sports
Ankle sprains are one of the most common injuries among gymnasts, cheerleaders, and athletes who engage in high-impact movements. Whether landing a tumbling pass, dismounting from the beam, or making a quick pivot in a game, the ankle is a common weak point for injury. Understanding how to prevent and properly treat an ankle sprain READ MORE
The Secret to Staying Injury-Free: A Sports PT’s Guide for Athletes
For gymnasts, cheerleaders, and athletes of all levels, performance is everything. Whether you’re striving for a flawless floor routine, perfecting a tumbling pass, or pushing your limits in competition, your body is your greatest tool. But with high-level training comes the risk of injury—and that’s where smart injury prevention strategies come into play. As a READ MORE
Understanding Overuse Injuries in Gymnastics and Sports
Gymnastics and high-impact sports require repetitive movements that push athletes to their limits. While this dedication is essential for success, it can also lead to overuse injuries. Joint pain and tendinitis are among the most common issues affecting gymnasts, cheerleaders, and other athletes. Understanding how these injuries develop—and how to prevent them—can keep you performing READ MORE
Back Self Treatment: Exploring Good Posture
Sit up straight! Stop slouching! We’ve all heard it. We’ve all ignored it. Most people recognize that good posture is important. Most people also want good posture. They want it so badly that they are constantly looking for ideas to make good posture easier. The problem? Good posture is HARD! How hard it is? It’s READ MORE
Self Treatment Series: Tracking Pain by Writing Down Baseline Symptoms
The best way to track improvement (or lack of improvement and worsening) with self treatment or clinician based treatment is to accurately record your baseline symptoms. Why bother with baseline symptoms? Baseline symptoms essentially tell us what we are starting with. Later you will revisit your baseline symptoms to determine whether there is any change. READ MORE