Is Weight Lifting with a Rounded Back Safe? In recent years, there has been an increasing debate in strength and conditioning circles about the safety of lifting with a rounded or flexed lower back. Traditionally, strength and rehab experts have advocated for maintaining a neutral spine position during lifts, arguing that it reduces the risk of injury. But as more...

The Sleeper Stretch The sleeper stretch is a frequently debated mobility exercise among rehab providers. Some prescribe it regularly, while others criticize it as a potentially dangerous stretch that mimics the Hawkins-Kennedy impingement test position. In my experience teaching physical therapy continuing education courses, those who dislike the sleeper stretch are often either not performing it correctly or using it...

Testosterone Replacement Therapy and Tendinopathies Recently, more men have started using Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT). Once rarely discussed, TRT is now common, and many medical offices and telehealth providers offer it. While this article won’t focus on who should consider this treatment or its efficacy, this article will discuss one of the common side effects seen clinically: Testosterone Replacement Therapy...

The Best Jefferson Curl Variations Learn about the different variations of the Jefferson curl exercise and their benefits in this video from Dr. Zach Long. These Jefferson Curl variations are great for improving spinal flexion stiffness and for rebuilding strength & control for individuals rehabbing flexion-intolerant low back pain. Standard Jefferson Curl The Standard Jefferson Curl exercise is a powerful...

Review of Titan Fitness Back Hyperextension Machine Shopping for a back extension machine? In this video, I will share my experience using the Titan back hyperextension V2 machine in my physical therapy clinic. Titan Hyperextension Affiliate Link: http://titan-fitness.pxf.io/NkvmjO Titan Back Hyperextension Assembly and Portability Having utilized the Titan Fitness back hyperextension machine in my physical therapy clinic for the past...

Knee valgus collapse is a common issue in squats that can lead to injuries and pain. In this video, Dr. Zach Long will discuss the causes of knee valgus with squats and solutions for this problem. Understanding Knee Valgus Collapse Knee valgus collapse is a common issue that many individuals experience, especially during squats. This movement pattern, where the knees...

Blood flow restriction (BFR) is a technique used in strength & conditioning and rehab to achieve performance benefits at low loads or intensities of exercise. In this video, we will discuss the criteria for choosing the best BFR device and recommend some top options. Related Articles: The Science of BFR Training Application of BFR Is BFR Safe? Criteria for Choosing...

The deadlift is one of the best exercises for improving whole-body strength. Hamstrings, glutes, spinal erectors, traps, and grip strength all in one! But for many athletes, every deadlift workout leaves them with an aching back or, worse, makes them avoid the movement altogether. This video will cover the most common technique issues to address if you are trying to...

I get this question a LOT! Having back pain and getting an MRI that finds a disc herniation can be a frightening experience. And not a day goes by that I don’t answer the question of, “is it safe for me to do X exercise with a disc herniation?” Or, “what are the best exercises with a disc herniation?” The...