Posts by Damien Howell
Gait deviations clustering gait deviations – injury – new data
In a previous blog article, I discussed the question “Is there a gait deviation or cluster of gait deviations which is common across musculoskeletal pain syndromes?” The consensus is currently…
Read MoreChoice of feedback for learning new movements
A common practice when addressing painful musculoskeletal pain syndromes is the symptom modification procedure. This procedure involves identifying the specific movement, posture, and/or activity that reproduces the patient’s symptoms. The…
Read MoreDownhill running – up does not equal down
Running uphill does not equal downhill running. The faster speed of running downhill does not equal the slower speed of running uphill. The rule of thumb expressed in Jack Daniels’…
Read MorePuny Calf Muscles Syndrome
It is time to replace the common belief that stretching exercises should occur before exercise or sporting activity with a newer concept that strengthening exercises for the calf muscles should occur before exercise or sporting activities. During warm up for exercise & sporting activity make a conscious effort to walk with spring in your step. Reactivating & reversing puny calf muscles can prevent injury, increase athletic performance, forestall old person shuffle, & look better.
Read MoreUsing slow-motion video for continuing education & professional development of healthcare provider
If a picture is worth a thousand words what is a slow-motion video worth? A video image of movement can facilitate our innate skill of curiosity the need or…
Read MoreSide Effects Occur During Gait Training
A side effect is a secondary effect, typically undesirable effect of a drug or medical intervention. Any intervention that can produce a therapeutic effect can also produce side effects…
Read MoreClinical Predictive Rules for Management of Plantar Heel Pain
Medical professionals rely on clinical practice guidelines to have better outcomes, lower utilization of care, and lower costs. These guidelines have limited value since they often fail to keep up…
Read MoreMountain Athlete: 2-Dimensional Video Slow-Motion Analysis
I have been asked to present a continuing education webinar to members of the National Strength and Conditioning Association. The theme of the program is Human Performance the “Mountain Athlete”…
Read MorePotential Prevention Strategy for Exercise Associated Muscle Cramps
Exercise associated muscle cramp (EAMC) is a painful, spasmodic, and involuntary contraction of muscle that occurs during or immediately after exercise. The exact mechanism or cause of EAMC still remains…
Read MoreBetter cues & mental practice to improve skillful movements: Are external focus cues better than internal focus cues? It depends
Coaches, athletes, healthcare professionals, verbal cues, use mantras, self-talk, visual imagery, and skill training to improve movement. There are many cognitive strategies commonly used to improve human movement to move…
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