Keenan Dung, DPT
Education
- Creighton University – 2023 (DPT)
- University of the Pacific – 2020 (B.S. in Exercise Science)
Focus
- Sports Rehabilitation
- Orthopedic Rehabilitation
Pain Management, Injury Prevention, and Accelerated Recovery
Powerlifting, a strength sport that requires technical skill, endurance, and sheer force, can often push athletes to their physical limits. This sometimes results in pain, injuries, or prolonged recovery times. Physical therapy provides powerlifters with a multi-faceted approach to manage pain, prevent injuries, and accelerate recovery, thus contributing significantly to their performance in the sport.
Powerlifting Pain Management
One of the primary benefits of physical therapy is pain management. Powerlifting often involves heavy loads, which, if lifted incorrectly or without the appropriate level of strength, can cause acute or chronic pain.
We use various modalities to relieve pain, including manual therapy, electrotherapy, therapeutic exercises, and heat and cold therapies. Manual therapy might include soft tissue mobilization or specific joint movements to improve mobility and function. These techniques can address muscle imbalances, improve alignment, and reduce discomfort.
We also educate you on proper movement mechanics and lifting techniques. This education can prevent the recurrence of pain and contribute to a safer and more efficient lifting routine.
Injury Prevention From Powerlifting
A critical aspect of physical therapy in powerlifting is injury prevention. Therapists conduct thorough assessments to identify potential weaknesses, imbalances, or areas of inflexibility that may predispose an athlete to injuries.
From this evaluation, we can develop a personalized program that includes strengthening exercises, flexibility training, and proprioceptive exercises, which can enhance your resilience and resistance to injury. You will also learn appropriate warm-up and cool-down routines to minimize muscle strain and post-workout stiffness.
Powerlifting Recovery Optimization
Physical therapy plays a key role in recovery, whether from intense training sessions or injuries. Various therapy techniques can promote faster healing by enhancing blood flow, reducing inflammation, and boosting the body’s natural healing process.
In the case of an injury, physical therapy is vital in guiding you back to your sport safely. We monitor progress and gradually reintroduce lifting to ensure the your body is ready for the stress.
Physical therapists also address the importance of rest and recovery in a powerlifter’s routine. They provide advice on sleep, nutrition, and stress management, all of which can impact recovery and overall performance.
Enhance Your Powerlifting Performance
Physical therapy can enhance your powerlifting performance, not just help with pain or injury. We can help optimize your body mechanics and improve the efficiency of your powerlifting movements. We can also provide strategies for improving mobility and flexibility, which are crucial for maintaining proper lifting form and achieving a full range of motion.