From: the_dojang-owner@hpwsrt.cup.hp.com To: the_dojang-digest@hpwsrt.cup.hp.com Subject: The_Dojang-Digest V6 #374 Reply-To: the_dojang@hpwsrt.cup.hp.com Errors-To: the_dojang-owner@hpwsrt.cup.hp.com Precedence: The_Dojang-Digest Fri, 30 July 1999 Vol 06 : Num 374 In this issue: the_dojang: RE: Korean Tigers the_dojang: Re: Tae Bo/Kickboxing Classes the_dojang: Tae-Bo the_dojang: Re: physiology the_dojang: Shoulder status the_dojang: Re: TaeBo the_dojang: . ......................................................................... The_Dojang, serving the Internet since June 1994. ~725 members strong! Copyright 1994-99: Ray Terry, California Taekwondo, Martial Arts Resource Replying to this message will NOT unsubscribe you. To unsubscribe, send "unsubscribe the_dojang-digest" (no quotes) in the body of an e-mail (top line, left justified) addressed to majordomo@hpwsrt.cup.hp.com To send e-mail to this list use the_dojang@hpwsrt.cup.hp.com See the Korean Martial Arts (KMA) FAQ and online search the last two years worth of digest issues at http://www.MartialArtsResource.com Pil Seung! Ray Terry, PO Box 110841, Campbell, CA 95011 KMA@MartialArtsResource.com ---------------------------------------------------------------------- From: "Atchinson, Kerry M" Date: Fri, 30 Jul 1999 10:12:59 -0500 Subject: the_dojang: RE: Korean Tigers Going to see the Korean Tigers this evening... I had to miss them the last time they were in town, so I'm as eager as a 5-year old on his birthday. Some of my classmates got to go to a KT seminar last night and have been telling me about it. Talk about turning green with envy! Will be back at the keyboard Monday, probably wearing a new Korean Tigers t-shirt, and will gush all about it..... Kerry kerry.atchinson@wichita.boeing.com P.S. ohboyohboyohboyohboyohboyohboyohboyohboyohboy....... =P ------------------------------ From: Daniel Parker Date: Fri, 30 Jul 1999 10:11:57 -0600 Subject: the_dojang: Re: Tae Bo/Kickboxing Classes I think that the Tae Bo/ Kickboxing class craze is a positive develpoment primarily because it is an extremely challenging workout that is an excellent overall body conditioner. This gives many participants both the confidence in themselves and the physical capability of dealing with an attacker or attackers out of the dojang. Except for high-level competitors, the vast majority of martial artists really only posess a marginal level of physical conditioning and an exagerated level of confidence in techniques that they have never trained in outside of the dojang environment with its convenient no-slip surfaces, controlled climate, sturdy doboks which can be grabbed in the same manner time after time, and adequate space to execute techniques with textbook precision. On a snow-covered winter's evening in the confines of a stairwell in an icy parking garage, a realistsic self-defence scenerio, physical conditioning and confidence will go a lot farther in helping one stay alive than flawless martial techniqe. I also feel that when one goes to sign up for a Tae Bo/Kickboxing class that they seek out a facility with competent instructors who are both certified by an organization such as the American College of Sports Medicine as an Exercise Leader or Health Fitness Instructor and have recieved training to teach these types of classes. This will help to cut down on injuries. Students also need to take responsibility for their own health and participate in these classes at an appropriate level of intensity, commensurate with their current level of physical fitness and skill. If they don't follow these guidelines, they will probably get injured. But is this the fault of the Tae Bo/ Kickboxing class or their own? I beleive most of the fault should lie with the student. Finally, to those school owners who feel that their business is being threatened by these programs, I am sorry. It is difficult to see ones dreams and income be adversely affected by competitors, but that is the nature of business in a modern industrialized society. You need to offer what your potential clients want, and if that is Tae Bo/Kickboxing classes, then so be it. If you are unqualified to teach these classes and don't want to learn how too, or refuse to do so based upon presonal convictions that's fine as well. But if your bottom line suffers, you have only yourself to blame and not Tae Bo/Kickboxing. This is the first time that I have written in to the dojang digest, and I sincerely hope that I have not offended anyone in my debut correspondence. That is not my intent. This is just a topic which interests me and I thought I would stir the pot a bit. Cordially, Daniel ------------------------------ From: Ken Ashworth Date: Fri, 30 Jul 1999 11:19:46 -0500 Subject: the_dojang: Tae-Bo I just recently started my TKD journey at the age of 40. I have my first belt test in 3 weeks. I have been going to class 3 nights per week since June 2. If it weren't for the Tae-Bo videos introducing me to punching and kicking I don't know if I would have discovered martial arts. I did the Tae-Bo tapes along with my wife and two boys (5 and 6) for 2 months before starting the TKD class. We had a blast doing the workouts together. I have to admit that seeing "The Matrix" is what put me over. I saw it 3 times the week before I found a TKD class. Ken Ashworth Houston, TX ------------------------------ From: "Darlene" Date: Fri, 30 Jul 1999 11:56:28 -0700 Subject: the_dojang: Re: physiology Laura wrote: > [snip] I would rather see a qualified martial artist who has not only earned a reputable black belt but who has also trained as a fitness professional teaching this course. I would like to see all martial arts instructors train in physiology and kinesiology for that matter. [snip]< I would strongly agree with this point. My TKD instructor (4th dan) frequently refers to various muscles (by their proper names and locations) and has ongoing discussions with us (especially during warm-ups) about the use and misuse of those muscles, possible injuries, and how to avoid them. When we do a partner wall-stretch, he frequently walks by and stops to remind us to turn our hip, straighten our knee, position our foot correctly, etc. My instructor also has some back problems, primarily associated with his work (he is a small-town contractor and does much of the building/concrete pouring/hauling by himself. Because of this, he often brings in new exercises designed to strengthen the back. I don't know the extent of my instructor's physiological and anatomical training, but his information coordinates accurately with the information I use in teaching basic health to my public school students. I have found this aspect of my instructor's skills to be an important part of my TKD training. Darlene Port Hadlock, WA ------------------------------ From: Ray Terry Date: Fri, 30 Jul 1999 12:13:40 -0700 (PDT) Subject: the_dojang: Shoulder status It has now been just over a week since my rotator cuff surgery. Thanks to all that sent me their best wishes. Attached is a summary of rotator cuff problems and treatments, for those that requested more info. Me? I can use my right hand/wrist/elbow, but my upper arm must remain in close to my side. I can only raise my arm about 1 inch to the side or about 2 inches to the front. Ray Terry rterry@best.com - --------------------------------------------------------------------------- What is the rotator cuff? The rotator cuff is a set of 4 muscles that motor the shoulder joint. These muscles originate from the shoulder blade (or scapula) and turn into fibrous tendons as they approach the outer aspect of the shoulder. These 4 tendons surround the front, top, and back of the shoulder joint. A lubricating tissue (or bursa) lies on the surface of the rotator cuff tendons. The tendons and bursa normally glide smoothly between the bone at the tip of the shoulder (called the acromion) and the top of the upper arm bone (the humerus.) When the rotator cuff muscles contract, they pull on the rotator cuff tendons, allowing the shoulder to move through the wide range of motion which we enjoy during daily and recreational activities. How is the rotator cuff injured? The rotator cuff may be injured by one dramatic trauma, such as falling on an outstretched arm, or it may be injured by repetitive overhand activity. Either form of injury can lead to swelling of the rotator cuff tendon and its bursa known as impingement syndrome. Either injury may also result in a complete tearing of the rotator cuff tendon from the humerus bone, known as a rotator cuff tear. What is impingement syndrome? When the rotator cuff tendons and the overlying bursa become swollen and inflamed it produces impingement syndrome. There are many factors that make someone more likely to have impingement. The most common is the size, shape and thickness of the outer edge of the scapula bone (the acromion.) The acromion may have a bony spur on its front edge which points down towards the rotator cuff tendon. With repetitive forward elevation and overhead activity, the rotator cuff and bursa may impact on this spur and become chronically irritated. Repetitive activities which involve forward elevation of the arm may put a patient at higher risk for impingement syndrome. How is impingement syndrome diagnosed? Impingement syndrome results in pain with overhead activity such as lifting a coat into a closet, placing items onto a shelf or even throwing a ball. Frequently the pain is worse at night and often interrupts sleep. If a patient has severe impingement pain, they may also develop some weakness in the arm but they most often are able to lift the arm overhead. Impingement syndrome is best diagnosed by a physical examination by the orthopedist. Special impingement tests can suggest impingement syndrome. Plain X-rays of the shoulder may show the presence of a bony spur; an MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) may be obtained to further identify inflammation of the bursa and the rotator cuff, and to rule out a full tear of the rotator cuff. How is impingement syndrome treated? Treatment begins with a period of rest from overhead activity, ice, anti-inflammatory medications (such as Motrin or Advil) and an exercise program. The exercise program may be self-directed or done with a physical therapist. Often a cortisone injection into the bursal space above the rotator cuff tendon is helpful to relieve swelling, inflammation and night pain. Is surgery necessary for impingement syndrome? If impingement symptoms continue in spite of the above steps and the patient is unable to carry out his or her work, recreational activities, and daily chores, and has difficulty with sleeping, then surgery is warranted. An arthroscope can be used to treat impingement syndrome. The arthroscope is introduced into the shoulder joint and visualizes the surfaces of the bones, the shoulder ligaments and the undersurface of the rotator cuff. The arthroscope allows confirmation that the rotator cuff is intact and, if this is the case, the arthroscope can then be introduced into the bursal space just above the rotator cuff. With the aid of a small arthroscopic shaver, the chronically thickened, inflamed bursa can be removed; with the use of a burr any bone spurs can be removed to allow the rotator cuff to glide smoothly and freely through the bursal space without impinging on the undersurface of the acromion bone. This procedure takes about 60 minutes and is done on an outpatient basis (without an overnight stay in the hospital.) How is the shoulder cared for after arthroscopy? A bulky dressing is applied to the shoulder area and a sling is provided for support of the arm. The patient is encouraged to wean himself or herself from the sling within the first 24 hours and to use the arm for non-vigorous activities. The dressing is removed after 48 hours. Some bruising and swelling may be present. The patient will see 2-3 small incisions, each with a stitch. Patients return for a follow up visit in 7-10 days and the stitches are removed at that time. An exercise program with a physical therapist is often started to help gain full range of motion and restore strength to the rotator cuff. How long is the recovery after shoulder arthroscopy? Patients may return to work within several days, but if their job requires heavy lifting or climbing return may be delayed several weeks. Full recovery and return to pre-injury athletic activities occurs in 8-12 weeks after shoulder arthroscopy. >>> What is a rotator cuff tear? <<< The rotator cuff tendons can be torn with a fall on the outstretched arm which causes the rotator cuff to be pinched between the upper arm bone (humerus) and the shoulder blade (acromion). The rotator cuff can also be torn by chronic impingement of the tendon on an acromial spur. The spur progressively breaks down the rotator cuff and may finally lead to a full thickness tear. How is a rotator cuff tear diagnosed? Patients with a rotator cuff tear often show symptoms similar to chronic impingement (pain with overhead activity and night pain.) However, patients with a rotator cuff tear often have significant weakness in their arm and may be completely unable to lift their arm away from their side. A rotator cuff tear is best diagnosed by a physical examination by an orthopedist. An MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) may be obtained to confirm a full thickness rotator cuff tear. How is a rotator cuff tear treated? A full thickness rotator cuff tear often results in significant disability in the arm. If the pain and weakness seriously interfere with work, recreational activities and sleep patterns, then surgery is necessary. The rotator cuff tear does not heal on its own. An arthroscope is used to view the shoulder joint and document any injury to the surfaces of the shoulder bones and also to confirm the presence, size and position of the rotator cuff tear. The arthroscope may also be used to remove any bone spurs which are present in the shoulder area. Current techniques for repair of a rotator cuff tear require approximately a 3 inch incision over the outer aspect of the shoulder. Through this incision the rotator cuff tears are identified and the torn edges reattached to the humerus bone with stitches and metal clamps. This procedure takes about 2 hours under a general anesthesia and may be done on an outpatient basis. How is the shoulder cared for after rotator cuff repair? A sterile dressing is applied to the shoulder joint and the arm is placed in a shoulder immobilizer (a sling with a strap that extends around the waist). Patients are encouraged to use their hand, wrist, and elbow but active elevation of the arm away from the body is not allowed. The dressing is removed 48 hours later. Some bruising and swelling may be present. The patient will see a 3 inch incision and 1 or 2 arthroscopy incisions. The patient returns for a follow-up visit in 7-10 days and the stitches are removed. A formal exercise program is then started with a physical therapist. How long is the recovery period after rotator cuff repair? It requires approximately 4-6 weeks for the rotator cuff tendon to heal down into the bone. During that time if active motion of the shoulder is carried out, the rotator cuff may be pulled away from its repair site. Patients begin a formal physical therapy program at approximately 10-14 days from surgery. For the first 4-6 weeks, patients are allowed to actively move their hand, wrist and elbow. Shoulder motion, however, is purely passive during that initial period. This passive motion is carried out by the physical therapist or by the patient with the assistance of the opposite arm. At 4-6 weeks the rotator cuff tendon has healed enough to the bone that active assisted and active range of motion may be started. Strengthening of the rotator cuff muscles begins at about 8 weeks from surgery and continues for 2-3 months. ------------------------------ From: Actatkd@aol.com Date: Fri, 30 Jul 1999 16:53:00 EDT Subject: the_dojang: Re: TaeBo In a message dated 7/30/99, 11:00:12 AM, the_dojang@hpwsrt.cup.hp.com writes: << Aerobic kickboxing is not pretending to be a substitute for traditional martial arts. >> I'm afraid I would disagree. Many of the advertisements for TaeBo, Aerobic Kickboxing etc. mention the fact that they are teaching students to defend themselves. Your class may be different, but I don't think that the majority of instructors out there are teaching much of anything about how to actually hit or kick another human being. I tend to beleive that a little knowledge can be a dangerous thing. Jason Swanson 3rd Dan TKD Lincoln, NE ------------------------------ From: Ray Terry Date: Fri, 30 Jul 1999 16:04:10 -0700 (PDT) Subject: the_dojang: . ------------------------------ End of The_Dojang-Digest V6 #374 ******************************** Support the USTU by joining today! US Taekwondo Union, 1 Olympic Plaza, Ste 405, Colorado Spgs, CO 80909 719-578-4632 FAX 719-578-4642 ustutkd1@aol.com http://www.ustu.com --------------------------------------------------------------------- To unsubscribe from this digest, the_dojang-digest, send the command: unsubscribe the_dojang-digest -or- unsubscribe the_dojang-digest your.old@address in the BODY of an email (top line, left justified) addressed to majordomo@hpwsrt.cup.hp.com. Old digest issues are available via ftp://ftp.martialartsresource.com, in pub/the_dojang/digests. All digest files have the suffix '.txt' Copyright 1994-99: Ray Terry, Martial Arts Resource, California Taekwondo Standard disclaimers apply.