I have to admit that, until recently, my exposure to physical therapists, occupational therapists, functional trainers, and the like in the human world has been limited. But those that I have encountered during my personal journey to help dogs live a better, more mobile and pain free life have really impacted me, and in a positive way.
It started with a personal trainer, specializing in functional training, teaching me that form is everything. Change position an inch here, adjust the angle here, and wow, what a huge difference in the "efficiency" of the movement. Perform the reps with the proper form to get the desired results, don't just rush through it. The goal is not just to complete the set, but to train the targeted muscles. Don't overlook the smaller muscles, those that contribute to function more than looks. Be careful as the body fatigues. Watch for compensation. Maintain balance.
Then I met a physical therapist, specializing in orthorpedics and sports medicine. What an amazing discovery I made about myself- hypermobile joints! Apparently I "bend" more than most, a sort of human Gumby if you will. The lesson learned is that genetics play a role and excessive movement in a joint can be just as bad as restricted movement. Strengthen, strengthen, strengthen to support and protect those joints!
I have met a series of physical therapists, hand therapists, and other such human professionals since. Each one has taught me something. Animal Physical Rehabilitation is an evolving field and for it to grow, we must not overlook the contributions of those trained to work on humans. Its a partnership, a collaboration of learning. So, thanks to those who have taught me something, and I look forward to learning more!
It started with a personal trainer, specializing in functional training, teaching me that form is everything. Change position an inch here, adjust the angle here, and wow, what a huge difference in the "efficiency" of the movement. Perform the reps with the proper form to get the desired results, don't just rush through it. The goal is not just to complete the set, but to train the targeted muscles. Don't overlook the smaller muscles, those that contribute to function more than looks. Be careful as the body fatigues. Watch for compensation. Maintain balance.
Then I met a physical therapist, specializing in orthorpedics and sports medicine. What an amazing discovery I made about myself- hypermobile joints! Apparently I "bend" more than most, a sort of human Gumby if you will. The lesson learned is that genetics play a role and excessive movement in a joint can be just as bad as restricted movement. Strengthen, strengthen, strengthen to support and protect those joints!
I have met a series of physical therapists, hand therapists, and other such human professionals since. Each one has taught me something. Animal Physical Rehabilitation is an evolving field and for it to grow, we must not overlook the contributions of those trained to work on humans. Its a partnership, a collaboration of learning. So, thanks to those who have taught me something, and I look forward to learning more!
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