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Categories Exercise, Resources, Walking Author marketing

Physical Therapy Promotes an Active Lifestyle in Coastal Virginia 


Living in the scenic coastal areas of Virginia provides many opportunities to engage in outdoor activities like pickleball, kayaking, beach walks, and golf. But what if physical limitations are keeping you from thoroughly enjoying these hobbies? This is where physical therapy can make all the difference. Physical therapy promotes an active lifestyle, and blogs by the Therapy Network team that provide physical therapy tips for outdoor hobbies are always popular. In this blog, we combined some of our top tips for hobbies enjoyed in the Hampton Roads region.





Physical Therapy Promotes Daily Lifestyle & Hobby Enjoyment





We often take our physical abilities for granted until they are compromised. Struggles with mobility, balance, or strength can hinder us from enjoying our favorite activities. But with physical therapy, you can improve these aspects and return to your active lifestyle more quickly than expected.





Man running on beach




Did You Know you do NOT need a physician's referral to start your physical therapy journey? Thanks to Virginia's Direct Access law, you can directly consult with our licensed physical therapists at The Therapy Network. Keep reading for information and a link to book your first appointment. 





Whether you enjoy pickleball, kayaking, golf, or just walking on the beach…Physical therapy promotes an active lifestyle, and The Therapy Network is here to provide services and tips.





5 Ways to Improve Your Pickleball Game with Physical Therapy 





Pickleball is increasingly popular, but like any sport, it comes with the risk of injury. Physical Therapy promotes an active lifestyle by rehabilitating you post-injury and helping you prevent future injuries. Here are some ways physical therapy can boost your pickleball game:









1. Injury Prevention: Therapists can identify weaknesses that might lead you to common pickleball injuries.





2. Strength and Conditioning: Target specific muscle groups used in pickleball to improve your game.





3. Flexibility and Range of Motion: Therapists will recommend exercises to keep your joints agile.





4. Balance and Coordination: Improve your footwork and reaction time on the court.





5. Injury Management: If you're already recovering from an injury, tailored physical therapy can speed up your recovery.





Visit our free information library and read about physical therapy's benefits for pickleball players.





Walking on the Beach in Coastal Virginia 





There's no better feeling than walking along the Virginia Beach Boardwalk or the soft sands of a secluded beach. Physical Therapy promotes an active lifestyle that makes this simple joy accessible. Follow these tips when embarking on a beach walk:





1. Start Slow: Sandy terrains are challenging. Start with short distances.





2. Wear Appropriate Footwear: Opt for sturdy sandals or shoes that offer support.





3. Walk at Low Tide: It's easier and better for your body alignment.





"The benefits of walking are numerous, but they're best-enjoyed pain-free. Physical therapy can help ensure that you can walk as far and as long as you want, whenever you want.”—American Physical Therapy Association.  





If walking on the beach becomes painful, The Therapy Network can help diagnose the issue and offer a solution. Read our full blog, “When Walking on the Beach is Painful.”









Before teeing off in any scenic golf courses across Norfolk, Virginia Beach, or Chesapeake, consider how physical therapy can help improve your game and reduce your pain.





golfer with back pain




1. Injury Evaluation and Treatment: Therapists can pinpoint the causes of your discomfort and create a treatment plan.





2. Pre-Golf Warm-Up: Learn about essential stretches and exercises.





3. Muscle and Mobility: Improve your swing and reduce the chance of injuries.





4. Injury Prevention Plan: A preventive approach can save you from long-term issues.





If you are a golfer, consider reading our blog with additional tips. Book your session at The Therapy Network to help you get the most out of your golf rounds.





Enjoy Kayaking in Coastal Virginia with the Help of Physical Therapy





Kayaking is a fantastic way to explore the waters of coastal Virginia, but preparing your body for the rigorous paddling is crucial.





Kayaking In Virginia Beach, VA
Kayaking in Virginia Beach, VA




1. Shoulder Strength: Enhance the muscle strength needed for effective paddling.





2. Elbow and Wrist Care: Physical therapy can prevent overuse injuries.





3. Muscle Imbalance: Target stabilizing muscles to avoid injury.





4. Core Fitness: A strong core is essential for kayaking.





If you enjoy paddle sports, read our latest blog about the benefits of physical therapy for kayakers. (Need link to latest blog here)





How Can The Therapy Network Help?





Physical Therapy promotes an active lifestyle that keeps you in shape and prevents injuries, ensuring you can continue enjoying all the outdoor activities that coastal Virginia offers. You do not need a physician's referral to start your journey to recovery or fitness. One is near your home or workplace, with six locations in the Hampton Roads area. 





Book an appointment today and continue enjoying all your favorite hobbies in Virginia. 


Categories Exercise, Resources, Sports Medicine Author marketing

Can Physical Therapy Help Your Pickleball Game?


Are you playing pickleball? Did you know it is the fastest-growing sport in Hampton Roads, Virginia? Did you know that Physical Therapy can be a huge help to your Pickleball Game? Not only is it popular in coastal Virginia, but it is becoming a nationwide trend. Here is a current statistic:





“USA Pickleball reported its membership, which reached 70,000 players in February 2023, increased by 30% in 2022. The growth prompted the Sports & Fitness Industry Association to name pickleball the fastest-growing sport in America for the third straight year."  -Pickleball Portal





With so many playing pickleball in your community, you may be wondering how physical therapy can help your pickleball game.





The Demands of Pickleball





Pickleball is fun, social and can be played in many locations in our communities. But the sport can also be physically demanding. Pickleball is a full-body and muscle workout. As an example, here are the muscle groups that will be engaged as you play the sport: 






  1. Lower Body: The lower body is crucial in generating power, speed, and agility during pickleball movements. Muscles include quadriceps, hamstrings, glutes, calves, and hip muscles.




  2. Core Muscles: The core provides stability and transfers power between the upper and lower body. The core also helps with balance and agility—two key roles while playing pickleball. Muscles in your core that will be engaged for pickleball include abdominals, lower back muscles, and stabilizing muscles.




  3. Upper Body: The upper body muscles are involved in hitting shots, particularly the serve and volleys. Muscles needed include shoulder muscles (deltoids and rotator cuff), biceps, triceps, and forearm muscles.





Find out how dry needling can help relieve sore and injured muscles





pickleball player at net




Suppose you are already experiencing discomfort within any of these muscle groups or feel sore and fatigued just reading this list. In that case, you can already see how physical therapy can help your pickleball game.





Remember that the intensity and demands on specific muscle groups may vary depending on your playing style, technique, and individual factors. A Therapy Network physical therapist can assess your needs and develop a tailored training plan.





5 Ways to Improve Your Pickleball Game with Physical Therapy









Physical therapy can indeed be beneficial to training for pickleball. TTN therapists are experts in assessing and improving movement patterns, strength, and flexibility. They can provide guidance and exercises and help you prepare for the physical demands of pickleball. A therapist can enhance your performance while reducing the risk of injury. Here is how physical therapy can help your pickleball game: 






  1. Injury Prevention: Physical therapists can evaluate your movement and identify potential areas of weakness and imbalance. At The Therapy Network, we will develop a customized exercise program to address those issues and reduce the risk of pickleball injuries.




  2. Strength and Conditioning: Pickleball involves quick movements, agility, and physical power. Physical therapists can design strengthening exercises to target the muscle groups involved in pickleball. Your therapist will create an exercise plan to enhance your game performance.




  3. Flexibility and Range of Motion: To prevent injury, flexibility and range of motion are essential for pickleball players. A therapist can provide stretching exercises and techniques to improve flexibility and joint mobility.




  4. Balance and Coordination: Pickleball requires good balance and coordination. A TTN therapist can help you improve stability and coordination on the pickleball court.




  5. Injury Management: If you have a prior injury or are recovering from a pickleball-related injury, a Therapy Network therapist can develop a rehabilitation plan tailored to your needs. Your therapist will promote healing, help you regain strength, and safely return to playing pickleball.





Find out how PT can improve your daily life!





If you are playing pickleball or considering the sport, it is time to schedule an appointment with a therapist at The Therapy Network in coastal Virginia.






Schedule Your Appointment









No Physicians’ Referral or Prescription Needed in Virginia





You have learned how physical therapy can help your pickleball game, but did you know you do not need a physician's referral to visit The Therapy Network? You can schedule an appointment today if you are ready to meet with a physical therapist and improve your pickleball game.





If you live in the Hampton Roads region of Virginia, there is a location of The Therapy Network near your neighborhood or place of employment. If pickleball is your new favorite activity, schedule an appointment today!