Welcome! “The PT Handbook” is a physical therapy newsletter discussing all things physical therapy/sports medicine. This newsletter is an extension of our philosophy at “Art of PT Performance Physical Therapy” where our patient population includes athletes and active individuals.
This handbook will provide practical PT tips and dive into hot topics surrounding the sports rehab world. If you have questions about the field of physical therapy or need to schedule an appointment (virtual/in person), tell us your story with the link below!
Dr. Gerry Robles PT, DPT
Founder, Art of PT Performance Physical Therapy - Athlete-level care for every active body
PT Handbook Conversation: The Biggest Mistake Active People and Exercise Enthusiasts Make
Well, this might not be the #1 thing but it’s something that comes up quite often. As a doctor of physical therapy, I see many clinical patterns in different patients. This is a big one so don’t ignore it. And it’s been coming up a lot lately in my practice. So let’s dive in…. 😁
The biggest mistake I’ve seen lately isn’t bad form or lack of motivation.
It’s ignoring early warning signs from your body.
Most injuries don’t come out of nowhere.
Warning signs means see a physical therapist if unsure…
Most injuries don’t come out of nowhere. They usually start as:
-Tightness
-Stiffness
-Mild pain that that lingers and you feel it most days
Instead of adjusting, people push through it.
That’s often paired with doing more…..harder workouts, more volume, more intensity….without supporting the basics.
Sidenote- Fueling training matters. Consistent workouts require adequate protein and smart use of things like pre-workout to support energy and focus. As a “Legion Supplements” ambassador, I like their products because they’re fully transparent with ingredients and dosages. If you’re looking for a clean protein or pre-workout, you can check out Legion HERE. I personally use their protein and pre-workout 🙂 .
Recover smart and don’t ignore early warning signs of injury….
At first, pushing through the warning signs works. Until it doesn’t….
By the time someone comes into the clinic, the issue has usually been building for weeks or months. Then it just finally crossed the line.
Here’s the reframe I give patients:
Pain and stiffness are feedback, listen to it.
And remember, recovery is where adaptation actually happens. Sleep, hydration, and key micronutrients all matter….especially when training volume or intensity goes up.
As also a Thorne supplements ambassador, I trust their vitamins and minerals complexes. They are trusted by professional sports leagues such as the UFC for their athletes. I personally use their multi-vitamin to cover all my micronutrient bases. Look for the multi-vitamin on the Thorne site HERE.
Listening early doesn’t mean stopping training.
It means making small adjustments so you can stay active long term.
See a physical therapist if you’re unsure about pain you’re feeling…
If your goal is to lift, train, or compete for years, not just weeks, the smartest move isn’t doing more.
It’s paying attention sooner. It’s also training smarter not harder.
So if you’re seeing warning signs, go see a physical therapist if unsure, or just book a call with me.
Struggling with nagging pain? Or know someone that does need help? Forward this newsletter to them🙂
Book with me using the link below and I can help!
Ok so the podcast has been on hiatus for a bit, it was the new year and I was on vacation. But I will continue it soon, I promise. STAY TUNED! And subscribe if you haven’t on YouTube HERE.
Some links in this newsletter are affiliate links. I only recommend products I personally use or trust as a PT. If you purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I am a Thorne/Legion supplements ambassador and trust their products.
Need help with aches or pains? Book below:
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Peace,
Dr. Gerry Robles PT, DPT
Founder, Art of PT Performance Physical Therapy - Athlete-level care for every active body