09/16/2024
Did Cavemen Need Physical Therapy?
Ever wonder if our ancient ancestors ever needed physical therapy? Probably not. Why? Their way of life was basically an ongoing workout. They didn't spend hours hunched over desks or glued to screens. Instead, they were active, mobile, and constantly moving in ways that naturally strengthened their bodies.
Our prehistoric ancestors weren't hitting the gym, but they were climbing, lifting, running, crouching—doing all sorts of movements that we now know are great for building functional strength. Their day-to-day life forced them into a variety of postures and positions that kept them strong, mobile, and (for the most part) pain-free.
Why Cavemen Didn't Need Physical Therapy
Because of this constant movement and variability, they likely avoided the repetitive strain and postural issues we face today. Cavemen didn't spend all day sitting, and if they did, they were probably sitting in deep squats or other active positions that kept their muscles engaged. No need for ergonomic chairs or standing desks here!
In contrast, modern life often forces us into static positions that we don't move from for hours on end. I don't believe there is a 'bad posture', but when we spend 8 hours (or more) a day in one position, our bodies might tell us about it—whether we're sitting in front of a computer, driving long distances, or spending too much time on the couch.
Training Ourselves for the Modern World
In a way, we can learn a lot from our ancient ancestors. Our bodies thrive when they're challenged by different movements and positions. Today, we tend to get stuck in the same positions or train in a similar fashion, which can lead to muscle imbalances, stiffness, and, eventually, pain. But that doesn't mean we're doomed!
Just like cavemen and cavewomen, we can train our bodies to stay strong and balanced. Incorporating a variety of movements into your routine—like strength training, stretching, and mobility exercises—is key to building resilience and preventing injury. Movement variability is crucial here. It's not just about doing the same exercise over and over again, but about challenging your body in different ways to ensure all your muscles and joints get the attention they need.
But if you are dealing with pain…
If those nagging pains just won't go away, or you feel like you need a little extra help, that's where we come in. Suppose you're dealing with pain, numbness, or stiffness that just won't go away. In that case, physical therapy can be a game-changer, Mindful Motion Physical Therapy can help you implement these strategies to not only reduce your pain but make you more resilient for the future.
Don't wait until things get worse—let's get started on getting you back to moving like a caveman (minus the loincloth, unless that's your thing).
