Sara Mikulsky

As the weather warms up, many people trade supportive sneakers for flip-flops, slides, sandals, or going barefoot. While summer footwear may feel lighter and more comfortable, improper shoe support can contribute to foot pain, ankle instability, knee discomfort, hip irritation, and even low back pain. At our physical therapy clinic, we often see an increase in overuse injuries during the summer months — and footwear is frequently part of the problem. Why Summer Shoes Can Caus

A day at the beach doesn’t have to mean lying still for hours (though there’s nothing wrong with that). The sand and shoreline actually create a perfect environment for a low-impact, full-body workout—with the added bonus of fresh air and a change of scenery. From a physical therapy perspective, sand adds natural resistance, challenges balance, and reduces joint stress compared to hard surfaces. That makes it ideal for building strength, improving stability, and engaging musc

Memorial Day weekend marks the unofficial start of summer—and for many families, that means gathering outside for a backyard barbecue. While burgers, chips, and desserts are classic favorites, your holiday menu can also support health, energy, and recovery. From a physical therapy perspective, nutrition plays an important role in muscle health, joint support, inflammation control, and overall wellness. Choosing balanced foods can help you enjoy the day while also fueling an a

Between answering emails, scrolling schedules, texting, and capturing every cute moment, parents spend a lot of time looking down at devices. Add in lifting babies, feeding, and carrying toddlers—and it’s no surprise that neck and shoulder pain are so common. In physical therapy, we’re seeing more cases of “tech neck” in parents: a pattern of forward head posture, rounded shoulders, and muscle strain that can lead to stiffness, headaches, and even tingling into the arms if le

Mother’s Day doesn’t have to revolve around brunch reservations and flowers (though those are always nice). It can also be a chance to celebrate movement, wellness, and time together—things that truly support long-term health. From a physical therapy perspective, the best activities are the ones that feel good, reduce stress, and encourage connection without overdoing it. Here are some thoughtful, healthy, and active ideas to make Mother’s Day both meaningful and body-friendl

Pain has a way of creeping into everyday life—whether it starts as a dull ache in your back, stiffness in your neck, or soreness in your knees after activity. Many people try to push through it or wait for it to go away on its own. But when pain lingers, it’s often your body’s way of signaling that something needs attention. Seeing a physical therapist (PT) early can make a significant difference in how quickly—and how fully—you recover. Pain Is Information, Not Just an Incon

As the weather warms up and we transition into spring, many people become more active—walking more, gardening, running, or simply spending longer hours on their feet. Unfortunately, this sudden increase in activity can lead to foot pain, especially if your muscles aren’t prepared for the added demand. From a physical therapy perspective, the key to preventing foot pain is building strength, improving flexibility, and supporting proper foot mechanics. The good news? Just a few

Shoulder pain is one of the most common issues we see in physical therapy—whether it’s from long hours at a desk, repetitive overhead movements, or weekend projects around the house. The shoulder is a highly mobile joint, which makes it powerful—but also more vulnerable to strain and instability. The good news? A few simple, consistent exercises can go a long way in preventing pain and keeping your shoulders strong, stable, and moving well. Why Shoulder Health Matters Your sh

Gardening is one of the most rewarding ways to stay active, reduce stress, and connect with nature—but it can also take a toll on your body if you’re not careful. As physical therapists, we often see aches and injuries that come from repetitive motions, poor posture, and overuse during yard work. The good news: with a few smart strategies, you can protect your body and keep gardening pain-free all season long. 1. Warm Up Before You Dig In Gardening may not feel like exercise,

Balance is one of the most important (and most overlooked) parts of physical health. It affects everything: Walking on uneven ground Climbing stairs Playing sports Lifting weights Preventing falls And here’s the key: balance declines quietly. Most people don’t notice changes until they feel unstable, trip more often, or lose confidence in movement. The good news? Balance is highly trainable at any age. 🧪 Quick At-Home Balance Assessments Try these simple screens: 1️⃣ Single-