Ankle sprains are the most common traumatic injuries among rock climbers (Jones et al, 2016) and are one of the most common injuries in the lower quarter affecting with an estimated 2 million cases occurring each year in the U.S. These injuries most commonly occur when landing from falling or jumping off a boulder. Manual...
The World of Hangboard Somewhere along your jaunt down the nice wandering cobble set path of life you were unexpectedly jabbed by the climbing bug, its infectious poison penetrating all the way into your soul, leaving your mind consumed with the indomitable desire to get vertical. The only way you have found to cull the...
Introduction Climbing is a physically demanding and exhilarating sport that requires a combination of strength, balance, coordination, and flexibility. Unfortunately, when injuries to the shoulder occur some elements of good shoulder function tend to be negatively impacted. With any good Physical Therapy program, the compromised elements are found and targeted with exercise to restore function....
A common question we discuss in our Boulder Physical Therapy and Lafayette Physical Therapy clinics regards Kegels. First and foremost, Kegels are not always appropriate and are definitely not always enough in treating pelvic floor dysfunctions! Gone are the days of doing only Kegels on a table in a room. For all the reasons Kegels...
Bringing a new life into the world is an incredible journey that transforms us in profound ways. However, the postpartum period often brings its own set of challenges, especially for those eager to return to an active lifestyle or sports. Fortunately, more research is being done and evidence is emerging. The article “Maximizing Recovery in...
By John Crawley, PT, DPT, OCS Hurt shoulder, what is it? As athletes that use their arms to complete a wide range of movement patterns to ascend rock climbing walls, they are susceptible to developing shoulder related injuries. If you are finding it difficult to determine the exact cause of your shoulder pain, you are...
By: John Crawley, PT, DPT, OCS Competitive youth climbing is a rapidly growing sport. With the large increase in indoor climbing gyms has come a significant increase in access to the sport of rock climbing. Many of these gyms have recreational and competitive youth programs that have led to a much larger exposure to the...
An acromioclavicular (AC) joint sprain, common among cyclists after a fall, occurs when the ligaments connecting the collarbone to the shoulder blade are stretched or torn. Depending on the severity, this injury can range from mild discomfort to severe pain, affecting your ability to ride. For minor sprains, you can continue cycling by adjusting your...
ACL injuries are one of the most devastating injuries for any athlete. Athletes often experience the sudden loss of identity, as well as, their daily and athletic function. They face a long, challenging recovery, including Physical Therapy, after surgery. The 9 month post operative period before their return to competitive sport is challenging and requires...
By: John Crawley, PT, DPT, OCS Plyometrics are a type of exercise that involve explosive, high-intensity movements and are often used in sports training and rehabilitation programs for many types of overhead athletes, but not often enough for rock climbers. They can be an effective way to improve muscle power, speed, and coordination, and can...
