Patient Evidence
An editorial in the International Journal of Athletic Therapy & Training discusses three sources of evidence-based practice: the therapist’s experience, scientifically proven practice, and, used less frequently, patient evidence. The authors argue for closer collaboration between athletic therapists and patients to ensure that factors unique to the patient, their environment, and their social setting are…
fNIRS and Concussion
Researchers at the University of Calgary are using Near-Infrared Spectroscopy (fNIRS) to monitor the impact of concussions. The non-invasive and portable device measures the changes in blood oxygen levels as a marker of brain function. Results show these patterns change after concussion. Ongoing research will examine the connection between symptoms and abnormalities in the brain…
Running Recovery
People often take a break from racing or competing at certain points in the year. While it’s important to have these breaks to recover, we often also want to retain our fitness. For running, what changes can you make to your mileage to keep your endurance while still letting your body recover?
Periodization: Planned Peaks and Targeted Training
Periodization is a systematic approach to training that involves varying training variables, like volume and intensity, over time. The objective of this planning is for the athlete to reach his or her peak at a specific, pre-determined time, while optimizing recovery to avoid overtraining and injury. Periodization is based on Hans Selye’s theory of biological…
Rolling out the benefits of Foam Rollers
Foam rollers have become pretty mainstream over the last few years. Athletes swear by this piece of equipment to help keep muscles loose and limber, and to help in muscle recovery and increased performance. Every day fitness goers are also picking up this piece of equipment to help ease muscle soreness. So what is it…
Being Smart about Concussions
Concussion continues to be a very hot topic in sport these days. In fact, the Governor General spent a full day in December 2016 hosting a conference with former professional athletes, Olympic and Paralympic athletes, the medical community, and the sport community at large, discussing concussions in sport and how we can do better for…
Need to Know Facts about Concussions
A concussion is a common head injury, also known as a Mild Traumatic Brain Injury (MTBI). It is an injury that is caused by the brain being shaken around inside the skull after a direct blow to the head, or a sudden jerking of the head or neck when the body is hit. There is…
Highlights: Consensus statement on concussion in sport – the 5th International Conference on Concussion in Sport
Concussion is one of those topics in sport that has been increasing in prevalence over the last few years. It is most likely that concussion injuries have existed for a long time, however, the awareness of their symptoms, presentation and management have been largely hidden from the mainstream. High profile athletes who have shared their…
Sport Injury – Healing the Mind and Body
Most athletes, competitive through recreational, experience injury in their sport at some time. There are many practitioners out there who can help heal the physical symptoms of the injury from the family doctor to the physical therapist. But dealing with the physical side of injury is only half the battle. What we cannot forget to address…
“You Are What You Eat” – Fueling up for Competition
Knowing what to eat and when to eat for sports can seem like a science. Don’t let all the information out there leave you frazzled and hungry. For the everyday athlete a little preparation can make it very simple! The phrase “you are what you eat” is true. Nutrition can play a key role in…