Even we’re guilty of overdoing it or going for a tempo run instead of taking a rest day. Maybe you need some guidance on an injury, or maybe you’re skeptical of how movement can heal. Either way, hear from Eric Otero (PT, DPT, OCS, ATC, CSCS), owner of Pinnacle Movement and Performance in Delray Beach. Eric kindly answered our nagging questions about recovery, movement, habits, and activity trends in South Florida.
What kinds of injuries are you seeing most often these days?
We typically see all kinds of musculoskeletal and orthopedic-related issues ranging from low back pain from either gardening, working out, or playing with kids to sprained ankles playing soccer, nagging Achilles tendon issues from running, etc. We also treat some neurological conditions associated with Parkinson’s, multiple sclerosis, and cerebral palsy.
Have you noticed a shift in why people are coming to PT?
The people who normally come to us are active, motivated people who actually want to get better or are looking for long-term solutions versus quick fixes that traditional medicine can lead with, such as injections, pills, or even surgeries. When people speak with us, they know they are in good hands with an actual clinic that will take their time and listen to the patient and not feel like they are in a mill being with two to three patients at a time and never really working with the Doctor of Physical Therapy. It is one-on-one with every single patient with no exception, we put the CARE back in healthcare, and people resonate with that.
Do you think more people are training like athletes now — even if they’re not competing?
I believe people are much more health-conscious and are really open to training for life. When we ask people about their low back pain, a follow-up question we ask is, “What is your low back pain preventing you from doing?” That is their bottom line and why they will put in the work to get better because it affects something meaningful to them; whether is it picking up their newborn or kids from the floor, playing in the rec league they may be a part of, or simply shutting them down from their daily walks … people want to get better so they are training for a better quality of life! We can see how quickly pickleball or Padel has blown up with people really getting out there and enjoying the sport for its health benefits from a cardio/workout standpoint, as well as enjoying the community aspect of it.
Is that changing how you approach treatment?
We have not changed our philosophy since we were established in 2018. If anything, it has solidified us being on the right track of putting our patients first! As Doctors of Physical Therapy, we hold ourselves to the highest of standards. It is time to raise the bar and receive the quality service you deserve by working one-on-one with a Doctor of Physical Therapy who can give you the attention needed to achieve your goals. Our goal at PMP is to provide a long-term solution to what is keeping you from the things you enjoy the most. We enter into a commitment to you, the patient. By providing care in this manner, we can thoroughly determine the best approach to help fulfill your needs and get you moving better and feeling better.
Hybrid training is everywhere — does it come with a higher injury risk?
There are really many factors when considering correlations to a type of training and the risk to the patient. Bottom line, Movement is Medicine! However, I believe when you consider someone who is new to that type of training, who does not have a solid fitness background, they can be susceptible to overuse issues, which we commonly see. I believe if they progressively ease into it, it is actually not only safe but extremely beneficial for them. Also, having great coaches that monitor and watch or correct form in these training environments is key! We work with many gyms and coaches around the community to keep people active in a safe, fun, and conducive manner!
How about running? Are you seeing more running-related injuries?
We are seeing an increase in more running-related injuries primarily because of the surge in local run clubs and events. Pickleball is huge — what’s the most common issue from that crowd? The most common injuries outside of direct trauma from falls on court are tennis elbow, shoulder issues (rotator cuff strains or shoulder impingements), or knee-related injuries such as MCL sprains or meniscus issues.
Are recovery tools like cold plunges actually helping — or just trendy?
Cold plunges can be great for many reasons and not just trendy! They can help reduce inflammation or soreness, boost your mood by upregulating dopamine, kick start your central nervous system and improve your mental clarity, enhance blood circulation post-plunge as your body tries to get back to homeostasis, and the list really goes on. Bottom line, we are big fans!
What’s your take on people trying to “hack” recovery?
People are always looking for the latest and greatest recovery hacks, but keeping it super simple is where everyone’s main focus should be. Exercise regularly, get consistent and quality sleep, and focus on proper nutrition. Just focus on these three alone, and you are already ahead of the game!
How much of your job now is education versus treatment?
Education is really our most important tool in our toolbox! Yes, we can dry needle, perform cupping, active release therapy, etc., but if we do not educate our people on what is causing their issue and direct them on how they can help themselves, we missed the big picture. What we tell our patients is that they are the captains of their bodies and we are simply co-pilots to help direct them on how to get to their goal of being pain-free and getting back to the activities they enjoy most.
Is social media helping or hurting how people manage their bodies?
Both, really. Social media provides some baseline information, but people may not understand that everyone’s body is different and there is no cookie-cutter approach that will “fix” everyone’s issues. More so, people should dig deeper as to where they are getting their information from to make sure it is a valid resource or professional, versus someone who simply has more followers.
What’s one thing active people in South Florida should be doing but aren’t?
Being proactive with their healthcare. Too often, we have people coming in mentioning issues that have been going on for months or years! The longer you let your body get accustomed to pain or dysfunction, the harder it can be to treat. We encourage our people to not sweep discomfort or pain, which are messages our bodies are giving us, under the carpet and let it pile up. A general rule of thumb we encourage our people to follow is, if it has been bothering you for more than two weeks, it is time to get it checked out. It will save you both time and money in the long haul.
And what’s one thing they should probably stop doing?
Waiting until the issue really does impact their day-to-day or recreational activities. We give our people a
game plan to modify or work around issues versus the typical “just rest it.” Patients need more of an understanding of what their plan of care looks like from start to finish so they can avoid rushing back into things when they may not be ready. Are you optimistic about where fitness culture is heading? We are very optimistic about where fitness culture is heading! Just from the local increase in run clubs, wellness events, etc., there has been a boom in health-focused individuals that has created fun and empowering communities.
What’s your top advice for staying pain-free and active long-term?
Keep moving! Movement is really the best medicine we have control over. If you are in pain and need guidance, see a provider who listens and can educate or empower you on how you can control your own situation!
@pinnaclemp
2855 S. Congress Ave. STE C, Delray Beach
