Sara Mikulsky

Stand-up paddle boarding (SUP) has become one of the most popular summer activities because it combines balance, strength, endurance, and time outdoors. While paddle boarding is generally considered low impact, it still places demands on the shoulders, core, hips, knees, and lower back. Without proper strength and stability, paddlers may experience: Shoulder strain Low back pain Hip tightness Balance issues Muscle fatigue Overuse injuries At our physical therapy clinic, we of

The Fourth of July is often filled with cookouts, barbecues, desserts, and festive gatherings with family and friends. While enjoying holiday foods is part of the celebration, it’s also possible to make choices that support your overall health, energy levels, and recovery — without sacrificing flavor. At our physical therapy clinic, we know that nutrition plays an important role in how the body feels and functions. Healthy eating can help support: Muscle recovery Joint health

Father’s Day is a time to celebrate the dads, grandfathers, husbands, and father figures in our lives. While gifts are always appreciated, some of the best memories are made through shared experiences and quality time together. From a physical therapy perspective, Father’s Day can also be a great opportunity to encourage healthy movement, outdoor activity, and overall wellness. The good news is that staying active doesn’t have to mean intense exercise. Simple recreational act

Summer is one of the best times of year to stay active. Longer days and warmer weather make it easier to walk, hike, bike, swim, garden, and participate in outdoor fitness activities. However, exercising in the heat also places additional stress on the body and can increase the risk of dehydration, fatigue, overheating, and injury if precautions are not taken. At our physical therapy clinic, we encourage people to stay active year-round while exercising safely and intelligent

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