As August approaches, many student athletes are preparing for fall sports tryouts. Whether it’s soccer, field hockey, football, volleyball, cross country, or cheer, the transition back into practices and conditioning can place significant stress on the body — especially after a summer with inconsistent activity.

School’s out for the summer, which means many families are packing their bags and heading out on vacation. Whether you’re taking a long road trip, hopping on a flight, or spending hours in the car visiting family and friends, summer travel often brings excitement — and unfortunately, neck and shoulder pain too.

In honor of May being Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) and Hypermobility Spectrum Disorder (HSD) Awareness Month, we want to take time to highlight these important—and often misunderstood—conditions.

March is finally here, and if you’re like us at Opal Physical Therapy, you’re more than ready for spring.

After a long Maryland winter filled with cold weather, ice, snow, and more time spent indoors, the arrival of spring brings something we’ve all been waiting for: warmer weather, fresh air, and the chance to get outside and move again.

February is Heart Health Month—a time to focus on habits that support a healthier heart at every stage of life. While many people associate heart health with cardiology or cardiac rehab, physical therapy plays an important role in improving overall heart health, especially for adults dealing with deconditioning, chronic conditions, or age-related changes.

Pickleball’s fast pace requires more than quick reflexes—it takes strength, balance, and resilience. At Opal Physical Therapy, we’re using the ANCORE system to help players boost performance and prevent injury.

When you begin physical therapy, your therapist not only provides in-clinic treatments but also assigns a home exercise program (HEP) tailored to your needs. It’s tempting to view this as optional or less important than your therapy sessions, but the truth is, your HEP is a vital part of your recovery process.

If you're dealing with chronic pain, muscle tightness, or nagging injuries, you've likely tried a variety of treatments to find relief. One option that's popular in physical therapy is dry needling. But what exactly is dry needling, and why should you consider it as part of your recovery plan?

Artificial intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing healthcare, and physical therapy is no exception. From enhancing treatment plans to improving patient outcomes, AI is set to play a significant role in shaping the future of physical therapy. Here's how AI can benefit both therapists and patients.