Unlock the secrets to impeccable posture and peak physical performance with our latest episode featuring Kristen Schuyten, a veteran physical therapist from Michigan Medicine. Kristen's extensive experience with athletes— ranging from athletes and performers — offers a comprehensive look at the critical role of posture in injury prevention and optimal function. Whether you're a fitness professional or a strength coach, Kristen's insights will prove invaluable.
Gain a deeper understanding of the natural curves of the spine and why maintaining alignment is essential for overall body health. We discuss the modern-day culprits of poor posture, such as prolonged computer use and weight gain, and how these factors lead to muscle imbalances and spinal issues. Kristen provides practical advice on addressing tightness in the front body and weakness in the back to ensure balanced musculature and prevent injuries during workouts.
Finally, navigate the landscape of postural improvements and clinical pathology with expert guidance. Learn how to distinguish between issues that can be managed through standard exercise interventions and those requiring professional medical attention. Kristen emphasizes the importance of warm-up and cool-down routines, offering practical tips and resources to integrate into your daily regimen. This episode is packed with actionable advice and strategies to help you or your clients achieve and maintain optimal posture for superior performance and health.
Our Guest: Kristen Schuyten, PT, DPT, MS, SCS, CSCS
Dr. Kristen Schuyten is a Physical Therapy Clinical Specialist and Performing Arts Rehabilitation Program Coordinator at MedSport Domino’s Farms and a Physical Therapist with the School of Music, Theatre and Dance Wellness Initiative. She holds her Board Certification in Sports through the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties and is a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist through the NSCA.
Dr. Schuyten received her undergraduate education from University of Michigan, and her Master’s and Doctorate in Physical Therapy from Central Michigan University. She performs staff training in the evaluation, screening and treatment of Performing Arts patients and coordinates and performs on-site triaging, backstage treatment services for the School of Music, Theatre and Dance (SMTD). She has collaborated in the creation of return to dance post-operative protocol, gymnastic, instrumentalist, post-concussion return and figure skating injury risk screening for these specialized patient populations. For over a decade, she has coordinated injury risk screening for the UM SMTD including analysis of individual screenings and customized exercise prescription.
Dr. Schuyten volunteers with the US Figure Skating Team USA, serving on their medical as Team Physiotherapist and supporting the team supported the team in Olympic and World Championship events. Through US Figure Skating and Michigan Medicine collaborations, she has served as a Co-Chief Medical Officer for 2019 National Figure and Synchronized Skating Championships.
Dr. Schuyten has presented at multiple national and international conferences on injury risk screening and performing arts medicine for the American Physical Therapy Association, International Association of Dance Medicine and Science, Performing Arts Medical Association, Music Teachers National Association and National Conference on Keyboard Pedagogy. Dr. Schuyten lectures at the University of Michigan through the Dance Department and other colleges and universities on Performing Arts Rehabilitation. She has also performed research and is published regarding post-concussive return to performance and return to learn progressions for the performing arts university student.