Sara Mikulsky

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-