A big part of my physical therapy (Round 1, 2 and 3) has been core strengthening. The core includes the gluteus maximus, a k a butt; abdominal muscles; hip flexors and abductors; and the illotibial band on the outside of the leg. Runners are notoriously weak in this area. But I’ve learned that a strong core will improve my alignment and make me less prone to injury after I resume running.
My PT exercises have included plenty of stackable steps, resistance bands and weights. But, in my opinion, nothing bests the BOSU ball – that funny-looking half ball that you see at the gym but aren’t sure how to use (at least I wasn’t). In case you’re not sure what I’m talking about, this is what it looks like:
BOSU stands for “Both Sides Utilized,” or “Both Sides Up” and it can turn ordinary exercise into more dynamic ones. My physical therapist, Michael Q. Cerrullo, of Optimum Orthopedics in Montclair, N.J., graciously agreed to demonstrate three core exercises on the BOSU in a video I produced. Enjoy!
Hello! I am amazed at your physical therapy! I had lap hip for FAI CAM in 2008. I had small rough irregularities on the right fem head causing the rest of the story which you know. I had recurrent symptoms 2 yrs later and all the imaging revealed no fem head abnormalities.. I recently began a new onset of symptoms, again on the right side. Xray today revealed a large spur on the femoral head. (same symptoms as 2 and 4 yrs ago) Do you know of anyone who has had lap surgery to the same hip? I’m trying to gather some info to see if it’s even possible (anything is possible I suppose) to remove the spur? I see a specialist near Boston, however, I saw just a local ortho doc today who is, well, just a jerk.. I basically wanted the xray. He’s recommending (get this) two more weeks of Aleve, and if no relief (which there will NOT be, we both know this) he’s recommending a cortisone shot. So frustrating.. And this ortho guy seems bewildered that my pain is mostlly while sitting.. really. ROM very limited, and internal rotation excrutiating.. Again, regarding your PT, unbelievable!! Great great great! Nothing near what I had 4 yrs ago.. ANy information you may have I would appreciate.. And Great to see you’re off and running.. slowly but surely.. Thank you! Mary Hurley-Holyoke, MA
Hi Mary!
Thanks for reading my blog — and for commenting. I am sorry to hear about your hip pain and bone spur problem. I guess that’s my biggest fear: that they might eventually come back and cause additional labrum tears. I am scheduled to see my surgeon, Dr. Struan Coleman of HSS, next week and will be sure to ask him about this. Sounds like you need to get a second opinion. Good luck, and let us know how you’re doing.
Vivian