Moving into Fall

After a hot, dry end to summer we are finally moving in to autumn.  The leaves are beginning to change colors, the mornings are getting cooler, and the days are getting shorter.  One of the many reasons I love living in Charlottesville is the abundance of outdoor recreational opportunities in and around town.  Whether it’s biking, boating, grilling or gardening, fall is a great time to be outdoors.  But for me personally, the number one outdoor activity this time of year has got to be hiking.

If you’ve haven’t had the opportunity to get out and do some walking in central Virginia, I strongly encourage you to give it a shot.  The weather is perfect for a stroll, and options are available for every fitness level and personality.  For a quick jaunt in town, it’s hard to beat the scenic walk on the Rivanna Trail starting at Riverview Park, or the shaded boardwalk of the Monticello Trail.  If you’re looking for something a little more rugged, the Appalachian Trail runs through Shenandoah National Park and is easily accessible less than 30 minutes outside of Charlottesville via Interstate 64 West.

Depending on how your summer has gone, you may be in tip-top shape and ready to hit the trails, or your body may need a bit of a tune up prior to setting out on your next adventure.  If pain or weakness is slowing you down or keeping you from getting out and walking, physical therapy could be the answer.

All five physical therapists at Move Better Physical Therapy are doctorate educated, board certified specialists in orthopedics.  This means that we are uniquely qualified to assess your musculoskeletal health and assist you in getting back on the trail.  Whether it’s knee pain, hip pain, ankle instability, patellar tracking problems, hamstring tendonitis, plantar fasciitis, lumbar pain or general gait and balance difficulties, we can create a customized treatment plan to decrease pain and increase function.  The preceding list is just a small sample of diagnoses that we are able to treat with our patient centric, evidence-based approach.

During your first visit your therapist will extensively discuss your current issues and any past medical problems you have experienced.  He or she will then perform a thorough examination and assessment of your muscles, joints, balance, mobility, and pain.  From there you will be educated about your condition and given a series of home exercises to perform.  Depending on your condition and your individual needs, your therapist may treat you with manual therapy as well, and you will discuss a treatment plan that meets your needs and works towards your goals.

If pain or weakness is preventing you from enjoying all of the walking and hiking options that Charlottesville has to offer, give us a call.  We will be happy to work with you and your physician to get you moving better and let you make the most of fall in Charlottesville.

Tom Stith, DPT, OCS