Did you know May is National Bike Month? It was established in 1956 as a way to celebrate the benefits of biking and encourage others to give biking a try. As physical therapists, we use bicycles in several ways, and they play a part in many of our treatment plans. As pediatric therapists, we use different types of bicycles to not only help with physical fitness, strength and motor learning, but to allow the child to participate with other children. We may have to adapt those bicycles to the child's needs. As orthopedic/sports physical therapists, we need to learn the different parts of a bicycle, the ergonomics and to be able to treat the possible overuse injuries that may arise. We may also use them to assist with strength and ROM. As geriatric therapists, we typically use recumbent bicycles to assist with strength and endurance.
Learn more about the bike and this area of sport today by viewing a new course by our expert presenter, Erik Moen, PT: Argument and Rationale for Physical Therapy Treatment of Bicycle-Related Injuries. This course discusses overuse injuries related to bicycle usage, PT evaluation and treatment of the bicyclist and equipment needed to treat.
In addition to National Bike Month, May is also Physical Fitness and Sports Month. According to the Department of Health and Human Services, children can improve strength, bone and heart health with being physical active. Physical fitness is not just for the young. Decreased risk for heart disease, type 2 diabetes and some cancers are benefits of physical fitness for adults. Physical fitness has also shown decrease in falls and improvement in cognitive ability in older adults. Be sure to check out our sport related courses in the library - there are more than 60 courses to choose from!
Finally if you missed out on our virtual conference, you are now able to view the recorded webinars!
Hope everyone has a great May!
Calista Kelly, PT, DPT, Cert. MDT