A Whole Body Approach: A Global Community Weighs In
Posted on May 18, 2012 by Julie Wiebe in Blog
I am excited to share a series of great conversations that have occurred in the social media sphere via an extravaganza of tweets, blogs, commentaries, Facebook posts, and Linked-In discussions. The conversation participants, we like to refer to ourselves as the #pelvicmafia, are a global group of Musculoskeletal practitioners that integrate the pelvic floor into [...]
Lions, Tigers, High Heels…Oh My!
Posted on May 03, 2012 by Julie Wiebe in Blog
A recent NY Times Well Blog discussed the dangers of high heels based on an Australian study that compared the differences in foot muscle and tendon activation patterns in frequent vs infrequent high heel wearers while walking barefoot. The study found that frequent high heel wearers (40+ hours/week) retained a barefoot walking pattern that mimicked how [...]
To Kegel or Not to Kegel? Is that the Right Question?
Posted on Jan 05, 2012 by Julie Wiebe in Blog
Kegels have been getting the run around lately, with folks in both camps-the Kegel-ers and No Kegel-ers staunchly pulling for their views.
I am in a different camp….the “let’s-see-the-Kegel-for-what-it-is-(an early rehab tool, if done correctly)-and-then-let’s-take-the-next-step” camp. Kumbaya!
In short, a Kegel strengthens the pelvic floor by performing an isolated, isometric hold of the pelvic floor. Isometrics, referred [...]
The Junkless Trunk: And Not in A Good Way
Posted on Sep 06, 2011 by Julie Wiebe in Blog
I get my sweat on twice a week with a park workout that I love – brisk walking, plyometrics and strengthening. Just me, the dog, a resistance tube, birds chirping, flowers blooming, sun shining and (cue nails scratching a chalkboard) the local stroller fitness class.
Head and Shoulders, Knees and Toes…and Pelvic Floor (Re-post)
Posted on Jan 20, 2011 by Julie Wiebe in Blog
My Father-in-law’s favorite joke is to lift his arm only to shoulder level and say “Hey doc! I can only lift my arm this high.” Then as he raises his arm to straight overhead, he says “But I used to be able to lift it this high.”
After ruling out the need for a psyche consult, [...]
Core Conversations: The Anticipatory vs Reactive Core
Posted on Oct 13, 2010 by Julie Wiebe in Blog
Our current definition of the Core is well…ill-defined. I know I have beaten this drum before, but in magazine articles, blogs, internet resources, even research articles, different muscles are included in the “Core” depending on who you read. I even hesitate to use the word because it means something different to each rehab practitioner, and fitness professional (or client) I talk with. Each of us thinks we are doing “Core” work with our patients and clients, but how can we be sure if our starting definitions are so vastly different.
What Goes Down Must Come Up
Posted on Jul 16, 2010 by Julie Wiebe in Blog
Pelvic organ prolapse and associated pelvic floor disorders used to be associated with the aging woman. Unfortunately, these diagnoses are now becoming more common with young women who exercise regularly. Jogging is a common culprit, creating a repetitive impact on a weakened pelvic floor which contributes to descent of the poorly supported pelvic organs. So what is an endorphin junkie who can’t quit the “kick’ they get from a good run to do about their heavy, painful sagging insides?
I Got 99 Problems, but my Core Ain’t One
Posted on May 24, 2010 by Julie Wiebe in Blog
Hello. My name is Julie, and I’ve got a problem. I’m addicted to the Core.
But not the watered down Core as defined by so many health magazines, TV informercials and fitness blogs. You know, the Core that has anywhere between 12 and 29 muscles that you’re supposed to “engage” simultaneously with exercise or a Core Blaster for only 3 payments of $29.99. And I am not addicted to the Core that is focused only on abdominals. Has that flattened your tummy, yet?
5 Things You Should Know About Your Core Exercise Program
Posted on Mar 18, 2010 by Julie Wiebe in Blog
Each evening after I put my kids to bed, I spend time searching the web for research, articles and blogs pertinent to women’s health and fitness. As my kids drift peacefully off to dreamland, I get more and more agitated at the misinformation that is being promoted on the web, particularly as it relates to [...]
How Strong is Your Core?
Posted on Feb 05, 2010 by Julie Wiebe in Blog
These days, books, DVD’s, gyms and the web all promote Core strengthening programs.”Engage your Core” is a common instruction given with the demonstration of an exercise. But how do you know if your Core is actually engaging? Take our quiz and find out.
1. Does your belly pooch out while you are doing crunches?
If a bulge [...]

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