The Murph workout is one of the toughest routines in CrossFit®. It includes a one-mile run, 100 pull-ups, 200 push-ups, 300 squats, and another one-mile run, often completed while wearing a weighted vest. The workout combines endurance, strength, and high intensity. Because it involves so much repeated effort and eccentric muscle loading, athletes often experience
Muscle stiffness refers to increased resistance of muscle tissue to deformation or stretch, often associated with pain and functional limitation. Patients with chronic LBP show higher stiffness in spinal muscles compared to healthy individuals, suggesting that reducing stiffness is a clinically meaningful target. Importantly, about 85% of LBP cases are classified as non-specific, with no
What is EDS/HSD? Ehlers–Danlos Syndromes (EDS) and Hypermobility Spectrum Disorders (HSD) are inherited conditions that affect the body’s connective tissues. People with these conditions often have very flexible joints, stretchy skin, and fragile tissues. They may also experience widespread pain, joint instability, fatigue, and other symptoms like digestive issues or dizziness. Why Fascia Matters in
Tendon and ligament injuries are among the most common musculoskeletal problems you will encounter as a therapist. They occur across all ages, activity levels, and occupations, and can leave lasting or even permanent deficits in movement and quality of life. Despite the impact, treatment options for tendon and ligament injuries have not advanced significantly in
Massage therapy—and even simple physical touch—has been shown to trigger measurable changes in the body and nervous system. Beyond its well-known applications in musculoskeletal pain relief, massage is increasingly being explored in mental health contexts, including generalized anxiety disorder, schizophrenia, and anorexia nervosa. Despite growing evidence of its benefits, the exact mechanisms remain only partially
Degenerative lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS) is one of the most common and disabling spinal conditions seen in secondary care, affecting roughly one in three patients referred to specialist spine services. Its hallmark is lower extremity pain, yet the distribution of pain is often highly variable, making diagnosis and treatment planning a challenge. The “textbook” descriptions—central
Chronic pain is a frequent and debilitating symptom in individuals living with Parkinson’s disease, affecting between 40 to 80 percent of patients. This pain significantly interferes with daily activities, reduces quality of life, and places strain on social and professional participation. Despite its prevalence, chronic pain in Parkinson’s disease remains challenging to manage. This has
Sleep disturbances are increasingly common in modern society, with a large proportion of individuals—particularly young adults and workers—reporting poor sleep quality. Massage therapy has long been recognized for its relaxing effects, but how it impacts sleep and brain activity during the day is still being explored. A randomized controlled trial from Greece offers compelling evidence
Chest pain is commonly linked to cardiac issues like myocardial ischemia, but in many cases—up to 70%—it turns out to be noncardiac chest pain (NCCP). NCCP mimics the symptoms of angina but lacks evidence of heart disease upon examination. While gastrointestinal causes like reflux are well-known contributors, musculoskeletal sources—especially those involving the myofascial system—are often
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a complex autoimmune disease that can cause widespread inflammation, joint pain, fatigue, and musculoskeletal dysfunction. A clinical trial from Spain explored how myofascial release therapy and proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) can improve physical function and reduce pain and fatigue in patients with SLE. The findings offer promising directions for physiotherapists