Understanding the importance of proper hydration plays a key role in in safety of the football-playing athlete
Learn what causes common cycling pains in the knees, back, neck, hands, and feet, plus expert bike fit and physical therapy tips to ride pain-free.
Find out if you need a referral for physical therapy, how direct access works, and how to start treatment sooner without seeing a doctor first.
Learn when a torn labrum needs surgery and when physical therapy is enough, plus symptoms, recovery, and how to choose the right treatment.
Learn why your knees crack during squats, when joint noises are normal, and when physical therapy may help relieve discomfort.
Rock Valley Physical has again been selected to provide sports medicine coverage for the 2026 IAHSAA Class 3A and Class 4A boys state baseball finals. The tournaments, set for Monday-Friday, July 20-24, will be held at the 5,300-seat Veterans Memorial Stadium, at Cedar Rapids, Iowa, the home of the Class A Midwest League’s Cedar Rapids Kernels, the High A affiliate of the Minnesota Twins. Rock Valley’s Jason Viel, Director of Athletic Training Services, MS, LAT, ATC (Pleasant Valley High School); Blake Anderson, LAT, ATC (Rockridge (Il.) High School); Tyler Beauchamp, LAT, ATC, PTA, FMT (Davenport Central High School); and Jess Rummery MS, LAT, ATC (Bettendorf High School) will be on site to cover quarterfinal, semi-final and final-round action of the tournament. “This is such a great opportunity for Rock Valley to be the premier sports medicine providers for the 3A/4A 2026 IAHSAA State Baseball Tournament,’’ said Rock Valley Physical Therapy’s Misti Thompson, LAT, ATC (Xavier High School, Cedar Rapids). “We were able to cover this event in 2024 and are excited for the opportunity to return and offer our services. With Rock Valley expanding across Iowa and even to neighboring states this allows us to amplify our mission of Making Better Lives while still being to impact traveling teams since we likely have clinics in most of the areas that teams are traveling from allowing continuity of care if needed through our direct access.’’ By: Johnny Marx, Rock Valley Storyteller
Isaac Daniels is Rock Valley Physical Therapy’s first Stephen Kaschke Memorial Scholarship recipient
Not only did his day entail catching up with friends, but Daniels learned he was the recipient of the first Stephen Kaschke Memorial Scholarship, a $2,500 award to a Rock Valley Physical Therapy employee pursuing a degree in physical therapy.
“What makes these communities special is they show up for one another,’’ Marcks said. “From school events and activities to local fundraisers, people from multiple towns come together with a shared sense of pride. Those connections go beyond the clinic. You see your patients out in the community, across towns, building
Keep Your Hands Celebration Ready! The Fourth of July often involves activities that challenge fine motor skills. Consider these tips to support independence, safety, and participation: Food Preparation & Picnics: Use non-slip mats to stabilize bowls, plates, or cutting boards Choose lightweight utensils and cups when possible Open food containers before gatherings if twisting lids is difficult Take breaks during prolonged food preparation to prevent hand fatigue Grilling & Outdoor Activities: Use grilling tools with larger, easy-to-grip handles Wear heat-resistant gloves that fit properly and allow for a secure grasp Keep frequently used items within easy reach to reduce unnecessary carrying and handling Patriotic Crafts & Decorations: Use adaptive scissors or spring-loaded scissors if hand strength is limited Try larger markers, crayons, or paintbrushes for improved grasp and control Stabilize materials with clips or tape when decorating Complete projects in shorter sessions to avoid fatigue Games & Recreation: Select balls, bean bags, or game pieces that are easy to grasp Use two hands when carrying heavier items Modify game rules as needed to encourage participation and success Focus on enjoyment rather than speed or competition Firework & Sparkler Safety: Avoid sparklers if grip strength, coordination, sensation, or reaction time is impaired Use glow sticks, LED wands, or other festive alternatives when appropriate Maintain a safe distance from fireworks and leave handling to capable adults Keep hands dry and free from lotions or oils when handling any outdoor equipment Energy Conservation: Pace activities throughout the day Alternate between fine motor tasks and less demanding activities Schedule rest breaks before fatigue affects performance and safety Stay hydrated, especially during outdoor celebrations Participation is the goal. Simple adaptations, planning ahead, and using appropriate tools can help individuals maintain independence and enjoy holiday traditions safely and successfully. Happy Fourth of July from your Occupational Therapy team! By: Kelly Jeffers-Gray, MOT, OTR/L, CLT