Dr. Christopher Hughes is a member of our Advisory Panel which helps NZ Manufacturing innovative and create better MediCordz® resistance cords and products that help patients recovering from accidents, surgery or torn muscles “Bounce Back with Resistance.” We spoke to him about his experience in the field of Physical Therapy and how he integrates resistance-training exercises into his practice.
Position:Rank Professor, Slippery Rock University
Areas of Research: Shoulder Pathology and Kinesiology of Therapeutic Exercise
Areas of Teaching:Clinical Education, Biomechanics and Orthopedics
1. Your degrees all touch on both physical health and exercise. What were your beginnings in these fields?
My interest in health and exercise originated early, while I was playing Pop Warner football. I really liked sports, and more so the athleticism and necessary training and conditioning that accompanied it. Weight training as a freshman in high school really became a pivotal point for me to choose the field of exercise science, and ultimately Physical Therapy. I remember being one of the first to join the National Strength and Conditioning Association back in 1978. Back then it was just a newsletter, but their mission was clear: to bridge the gap between science and exercise. I am proud to say I am still a member. Academically, I’ve had great mentors at Springfield College in Massachusetts (B.S., M.S.). and The University of Virginia (Ph.D.).
2. What draws you to physical therapy?
The ability to not only determine and assess a physical problem but also to treat it. Both aspects can be a challenge and very few people are good at doing both. The breadth and evolving nature of the field have made it a lifelong profession. Also, it’s fulfilling to know that you can help someone get over an injury and improve the quality of their life.
3. Have you always been athletic? Do you have a special interest in any particular sport?
I was very active as a kid, so much so that I would probably be labeled as hyperactive by today’s standards! I was constantly in motion. My favorite sport was football. Honestly, I probably owe it all to watching NFL films. When they slowed things down on film you really got to see the true rigors of the game set to motivating narration and music. This really gave me an appreciation of how the body moved and how fascinating it is to watch controlled movement, strength, power, and speed.
4. Have you used our MediCordz® in your work with physical therapy? How so?
Yes. They provide a nice gradation of tension and you can get really creative with MediCordz®.
The neck harness is great for creating multiple angles of resistance and matches up well with the geometry and movement of the cervical spine and thoracic region. Because MediCordz® can offer significant resistance, it is also ideal for improving patient strength beyond the rehabilitation period.
5. Why did you decide to join NZ Manufacturing’s advisory board?
Product development and new technologies have always been an interest of mine. Bridging the gap between clinician needs and manufacturing of relevant products is so needed right now. It’s exciting to be a part of creating tools that are productive for the clinician and ultimately enhance patient care.
Let us know about other Resistance Exercise topics you’d like to hear about from our Advisory Panel or give us your feedback on our resistance exercise products here.
