And important reminder (warning, long)

[Cycling Sister]

Selkie,

Lack of muscle firing and muscle imbalances can contribute to functional scoliosis, muscle compensation and chronic pain if left untreated. As a massage therapist, I treat the effects of it all the time. Unfortunately, not all PTs and massage therapists are trained in dealing with neurological issues that can develop from lack of proper firing, pelvic stabilization, somatic and movement therapies. You were fortunate to find a PT who was trained in muscle firing testing and treatment.

[ny biker]

So how do you know if your glutes aren't firing?

[Selkie]

The Running Times article has a self-test that you can do to see if your glutes are firing. For me, I could tell by the difference in muscle tone/strength or lack thereof between my right and left glutes. I didn't connect the dots between it and the foot issue, however. High hamstring tendonitis was also a symptom of it (completely resolved itself now, thank goodness).