Sports Injuries

Richard and Janine have extensive experience over many years in the rehabilitation of sports injuries

Knee examinationWith our membership of the Sports Physiotherapy Group we keep up to date with the latest treatment and research related to the rehabilitation of sports injuries. Since graduating Richard has completed the Level 2 Advanced APA Sports Physiotherapy course and Janine has completed many courses related to sports physiotherapy.

Common Sporting Injuries We See

  • Tendonitis - achilles, rotator cuff, tennis elbow.
  • Ligament tears - ankle, anterior cruciate, collateral knee ligaments.
  • Dislocations - shoulder, elbow.
  • Muscle tears - hamstrings, calf, corks.
  • Sporting back, neck.
  • Shin splints, overuse injuries, repetitive strain.
  • Biomechanical problems.
  • Joint problems - patello-femoral, articular cartilage damage, meniscus damage.

Treatment Aims to:

  • Speed up the rate of tissue healing.
  • Return you to sport quickly and safely.
  • Improve your posture and resolve muscle imbalance.
  • Increase your flexibility.
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  • Improve your muscle strength and control.
  • Enhance your sporting performance.

Diagnostic Ultrasound

Our diagnostic ultrasound machine can be used to monitor the healing of damaged soft tissues. This gives us information on the extent of injury and expected time of recovery. When necessary we will refer you to a radiologist for diagnostic assessment.

Prevention

Once you get better you want to know your pain is unlikely to recur.

We will address any biomechanical factors that may have contributed to your problem and get you set on a maintenance program of exercises.

Heat or Ice?

It can be confusing to know when to apply heat or cold to an injury. It is important to know the difference as applying either at the wrong time can make an injury worse.

When to Apply Ice

Ice reduces blood flow, pain and cell metabolism. Ice is therefore used immediately after an injury and for the next 36 to 48 hours to reduce swelling and cell death. Ice can be used at any time as an analgesic. Apply ice wrapped in a damp towel for 10-20 minutes with a 20-30 minute rest between applications.

When Not to Apply Ice

Ice also causes stiffening of the tissues. Therefore do not use ice prior to activity. Get advice before using ice if stiffness is a significant problem, for example, after joint replacement surgery.

When to Apply Heat

Heat improves blood flow, increases cell metabolism and promotes elasticity. Heat also reduces pain. Heat can therefore be used as an analgesic and to reduce stiffness. Use heat for painful, stiff joints. Heat can be used 48 hours after an injury to promote healing. Application times of 20 to 30 minutes are recommended.

When Not to Apply Heat

Do not apply heat in the first 48 hours of a traumatic injury as it will increase swelling and cell death. Do not apply heat where a clot or thrombosis is suspected.

If an injury persists see us at Austens Physiotherapy for professional advice.