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| What is functional rehabilitation? It is a strategy involving evaluation and performance of rehabilitation exercises that mimic real life. With this a patient will be able to return to their work, activities of daily living, or competition sooner and with better mechanics to improve performance and prevent future episodes of pain. Methods used in functional rehab include:
Tissue sparing techniques- to prevent further injury
- to prevent aggravation of your condition
Spinal stabilization- reduce the strain placed on the spinal joints through effective bracing and muscular support (core strength)
- improved athletic performance through effective power transfer and a decrease in wasted movements
Training proper movement patterns- decrease strain placed on joints and connective tissues including the interveterbral disc
- reduce the risk of future aggravations
- get you back to work (& play) faster
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| Hip HingeThe top photo displays poor use of the hip hinge. By failing to bend at the hip joint the patient is forced to flex his low back to accomplish the desired movement. This places significant pressure on the intervertebral disc. The lower picture shows proper use of the hip hinge which allows the patient to maintain a neutral spine position. Our patients are taught this movement pattern as a tissue sparing technique. This will allow them to prevent further aggravation of their condition and re-injury. |
 
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Squat with PhysioballThis squat is performed with the physioball to train proper use of the hip-hinge and encourage neutral spine mechanics. A weighted ball is added to train a more complex and functional movement, while increasing leg and core strength. |
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| LungeA lunge is trained utilizing neutral spine mechanics. The patient is then challeneged by adding weights and arm movements to the exercise. This creates a strong, balanced, and functional movement pattern. |
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Lunge with stability disc This patient has perfected the basic lunge and has been moved on to a more challenging lunge that involves training stability and balance in the movement by stepping onto a stability disc. |
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| Abdominal Curl-UpAbdominal activation and strength is required for stabilizing of the low back. This abdominal curl-up performed on the physioball supports the natural curve of the low back while challenging the core muscles. |
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Star ExerciseThe star exercise trains a complex movement pattern that involves turning the hips to generate power and limit rotation in the spine. The exercise also trains balance, core strength, and leg strength. 'Grooving' this pattern can improve athletic performance as well as preventing future injury to the low back. This movement pattern can be utilized in daily activities such as sweeping or shoveling, as well as athletics such as tennis, golf, baseball, and boxing. |
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| KinesiotapingKinesiotaping is a unique form of taping that encourages tissue healing while not limiting movement or athletic performance. The tape is applied along injured muscles or across joints to encourage lymphatic drainage, increase tissue sensation, and speed recovery. |
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Dead Bug ChallengeLeft:The dead bug challenge is shown using the arms, while Dr. VanVorst checks for abdominal muscle activation with his other hand.Middle: The dead bug challenge is shown using the arms and legs. They will be pushed in opposite directions requiring crossed strength through the abominal region connecting the upper and lower body. Right: A pole or dowel can be held by the patient, it can be used to add rotational force to the exericse. |
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