It’s no secret that we are big proponents of lifting heavy things on a regular basis.
Strength training improves:
At our physical therapy Wichita clinic, strength isn’t optional. It’s foundational.
And when it comes to foundational movements, one lift stands above the rest:
The squat doesn’t get any more real-world than this.
You squat every day: getting off the couch, picking something up, getting in and out of a car, using the restroom.
It’s simply getting up and down around your environment.
But somewhere along the way, the squat became… complicated.
Barbell.
Kettlebell.
Sandbag.
Bodyweight.
Back squat.
Front squat.
Hack squat.
Trunk upright.
Trunk forward.
Eyes up.
Eyes down.
Barefoot only.
Flat shoes only.
The internet would have you believe there is one perfect way to squat, and that if you’re not doing it that way, you’re wrong.
That’s simply not true.
You and I are built differently.
We have different:
So why would one universal rule apply to all of us?
This is where performance physical therapy matters.
At Natural Wellness Physiotherapy, we assess the individual in front of us, not a generic model from a textbook or a fitness influencer’s reel.
And when science supports individualized approaches, we use it.
A recent study looked at one simple question:
What happens when you elevate your heels during a squat?
The findings were clear:
For many lifters, especially those newer to weight lifting, elevating the heels can immediately improve squat mechanics and comfort.
This is particularly helpful for individuals who:
In these cases, placing small plates (like 10-pound plates) under the heels can be a simple, effective solution.
No dogma required.
Social media tends to reward extremes.
But at the best physical therapy Wichita clinic (yes, we’re proud of that reputation), we prioritize results over rigidity.
If barefoot squatting works well for you, great.
If heel elevation improves your depth, stability, and confidence, also great.
The goal isn’t to win an internet debate.
The goal is to:
If squats hurt…
If depth feels impossible…
If you’ve been told to “just stop lifting”…
If you’re unsure how to progress safely…
That’s where performance physical therapy comes in.
At Natural Wellness Physiotherapy, we help lifters in Wichita, Andover, and Derby:
We don’t believe in pulling you away from the barbell.
We believe in helping you get back under it safely.
If you’re looking for physical therapy Wichita athletes trust, especially when it comes to weight lifting and performance training, our team is here to help.
Strength is not the enemy.
Avoiding it is.
Ready to squat deeper and lift heavier with confidence?
Schedule a visit with our performance physical therapy team today.