Case Studies
The following examples explain how the Movement is Therapy™ program is helping individuals improve their quality of life and make the most of every move.
Back Pain
CLIENT: 35 year old female with genetic lower back pain
SITUATION: Client has a herniated disc in the low back area; has tried exercise previously but experienced pain due to flare ups.
ACTION: Met twice per week for six weeks. Performed functional screens and tests to avoid damaging/exacerbating activity and formulated workout plan. Evaluation determined that it was necessary to avoid all flexion moves. Client was taught exercises to engage the glutes, which would decrease the overuse of hips. She also learned proper stretching for hips and the IT bands. Instruction also focused on proper standing and seated alignment, as well as spinal stability exercises, and was assigned as part of her regular homework. Multidimensional core exercises that avoided hollowing and were also included in her program.
OUTCOME: At the end of the six week program, client was able to recognize and correct the bad postural habits that were causing her back pain. By removing the flexion exercises, a contributing influence for the flare-ups, client is now more likely to remain pain-free, progress with exercise program and gain strength. Client has gained CONTROL over her challenging problem and continues to improve.
Learn – Move – Live!
Senior
CLIENT: 78 year old moderately active female
SITUATION: Client has Osteoporosis as well as movement limitation due to a steel rod in her right leg. Client is relatively consistent with cardiovascular activities, but seeks guidance for safe incorporation of resistance training, including core exercises, in her routine.
ACTION: Met once a week for six weeks. During the first three weeks, introduced simple standing and seated exercises to correct postural deviations in head position; taught proper arm movement (from the back), as well as basic core exercises. By the 4th week, functional strength exercises were introduced including overhead press (standing and seated position), bicep curls and triceps kickbacks, back extension exercises, and modified squats using a chair. These exercises were performed with light, 2-3 lb. weights.
OUTCOME: Upon completion of the six week program, client was able to properly execute moves, had increased core strength, and improved postural alignment. Most importantly, she now knows how and what exercises to do, and is actively improving her situation and health with movement.
Learn – Move – Live!
Elbow and Forearm Pain
CLIENT: 50 year old female relatively inactive due to pain
SITUATION: Chronic tendinitis — constant pain in elbow and forearm; overall weakness in arm.
ACTION: Met once a week for six weeks. Introduced postural alignment exercises to correct her forward head position; introduced exercises teaching proper arm movement as well as leg movement to reinforce alignment. Focused on core exercises to teach her how to initiate moves correctly and how not to overuse shoulders and forearm. Assigned simple “homework” and added one new exercise each week.
OUTCOME: Pain in her arm has diminished. Client understands root of the pain/problem and continues to work on strengthening back muscles and core to prevent reoccurrence. She is also able to perform many tasks that she previously could not do and actually LIKES to move!
Learn – Move – Live!
Torn Meniscus
CLIENT: 48 year old male, runner
SITUATION: Small tear in meniscus of left knee; slight pain; surgery not yet necessary and goal is to prevent having to have it.
ACTION: Met weekly for the Movement is Therapy™ six week educational fitness program. Introduced corrective exercises for knee/foot alignment (left side not tracking properly). Taught core and pelvic stability exercises to reinforce proper leg position. Introduced specific stretches to open hip area and lengthen hamstrings and quadriceps. Assigned simple “homework” and added one new exercise each week.
OUTCOME: Client understands how to retrain muscles to correct weakness on left side and how to stretch properly. Client is still running and continues to practice Movement is Therapy™ program exercises.
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