What We Treat
Sports Injury
“How to return to sport quickly whilst significantly reducing the risk of re-injury.”
Sports injuries are a tough part of being active, often leaving people not just in pain, but feeling down too. Whether it’s a twisted ankle or a more serious injury like a torn ligament, they disrupt training routines and can crush hopes of success. Dealing with these injuries isn’t just about physical discomfort – it’s also about handling the emotions that come with setbacks. Frustration, disappointment, and a sense of loss are common feelings. But in facing these challenges, there’s a chance to grow stronger and succeed. This page looks at sports injuries, recognizing the pain they cause both physically and emotionally, and offering support to those going through tough times in their athletic journey.
What are the different types sports injury and how are these caused?
Sports injuries can broadly be categorized into three main types: acute, subacute, and chronic. Acute injuries typically occur suddenly during physical activity, often as a result of a direct blow, fall, or sudden twist. Common examples include sprained ankles, muscle strains, and fractures. Subacute injuries develop over a period of time, usually due to overuse or repetitive stress on a particular part of the body. Conditions such as tendonitis and stress fractures fall into this category. Chronic injuries are long-term conditions that result from repeated trauma or overuse without proper recovery. These injuries, like tennis elbow or runner’s knee, often develop gradually and can persist for an extended period. Regardless of the type, sports injuries can stem from various factors such as inadequate activity preparation, poor technique, biomechanical imbalances, insufficient rest, and training errors. Understanding the different types of injuries and their causes is crucial for effective prevention and management in sports.
Common misconceptions surrounding sports injuries
Common misconceptions surrounding sports injuries often stem from myths perpetuated by well-meaning individuals or misinformation. One prevalent misconception is the belief that pushing through pain is a sign of toughness and dedication. In reality, ignoring pain signals can exacerbate injuries and prolong recovery time. Another misconception is that only high-impact sports lead to injuries, overlooking the fact that overuse injuries can occur in any activity with repetitive movements. Additionally, there’s a misconception that stretching before exercise prevents injuries, when in fact, dynamic warm-ups and movement specific drills are more effective preventive measures. Lastly, the idea that young athletes are less prone to injury due to their flexibility and resilience is misleading, as improper training and growth-related factors can increase their susceptibility. Understanding and dispelling these misconceptions is essential for promoting safe and effective sports participation.
How can RISE help me?
RISE Physiotherapy’s state-of-the-art clinic offers comprehensive solutions for managing and resolving sports injuries effectively. Their multidisciplinary approach combines cutting-edge techniques with personalised care to address the specific needs of each individual. Through thorough assessments, our chartered physiotherapists create tailored treatment plans that may include manual therapy, therapeutic exercises, and modalities such as shockwave therapy. Advanced technologies like motion analysis and biomechanical assessments help pinpoint underlying issues contributing to injuries, enabling targeted interventions for optimal recovery. What sets RISE apart is the expertise of our physios, who have extensive experience working within professional sports. This firsthand knowledge of rehabilitating elite-level athletes ensures that treatment strategies are not only evidence-based but also refined through practical experience in high-performance settings. RISE also emphasises the importance of understanding your condition, empowering patients with knowledge about injury prevention strategies and self-management techniques to foster long-term wellness. By fostering a collaborative environment and prioritising evidence-based practices, RISE strives to facilitate speedy recovery and restore athletes to peak performance safely and effectively.
How can I improve my back pain?
Here are some things you can do to help with recovery from an acute sports injury:
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Protect and Manage. Immediately following the injury, it’s crucial to rest the affected area to prevent further damage. Closely manage and control weight or strain on the injured area in the early stages – listen to your body. This can help reduce pain, swelling, and manage inflammation. You could use a cold pack or ice wrapped in a cloth for about 15 minutes every few hours during the first 48 hours post-injury.
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Compression and Elevation. Applying compression to the injured area with a bandage or compression sleeve can help minimize swelling and provide support. Elevating the injured limb above the level of the heart can also aid in reducing swelling and promoting blood flow back to the heart. Keeping the injured area elevated, especially when resting, can help alleviate pain and accelerate healing.
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Seek Medical Attention. While minor acute injuries can often be managed at home with rest and self-care measures, it’s essential to seek medical attention for more severe injuries or if symptoms worsen over time. A healthcare professional, such as a physiotherapist, can provide a proper diagnosis, recommend appropriate treatment, and offer guidance on rehabilitation exercises to facilitate recovery. Prompt medical evaluation can help prevent complications and ensure a safe and effective recovery process.
Here are some things you can do to help with recovery with a subacute sports injury:
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Modify Activity. While rest is often needed for acute injuries, subacute injuries often benefit from modified activity rather than complete rest. It’s crucial to avoid activities that exacerbate pain or discomfort in the injured area. Instead, consider alternative forms of exercise that put less strain on the affected body part, such as swimming or stationary cycling. Gradually reintroduce activities as pain subsides and strength improves.
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Seek Guidance. If an acute injury is not settling and you are finding it difficult to overcome this can be a very difficult experience. In having a detailed assessment you can be guided on timescales for injury, expectations and given the support you need to make sure you are able to progress towards recovery.
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Progressive Rehabilitation. Engaging in a structured rehabilitation program is vital for restoring function and preventing re-injury in subacute sports injuries. Work closely with a physiotherapist to develop a personalised rehabilitation plan that includes targeted exercises to improve strength, flexibility, and proprioception. Gradually progress the intensity and duration of exercises as tolerance improves, ensuring a safe and effective return to sport or activity.
Here are some things you can do to help with recovery with a chronic sports injury:
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Address Underlying Factors. Chronic sports injuries often develop due to underlying biomechanical imbalances, overuse patterns, or inadequate recovery practices. Identifying and addressing these contributing factors is essential for long-term management and prevention of recurrence. Work with a physiotherapist to assess and address any biomechanical deficiencies through corrective exercises, orthotics, or modifications to training techniques.
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Selective Training. Incorporating diverse training activities into your routine can help reduce strain on the injured area while maintaining overall fitness and conditioning. Choose low-impact exercises that target different muscle groups and movement patterns to minimize stress on the affected body part. Activities such as swimming, yoga, or cycling can provide cardiovascular benefits without exacerbating symptoms of chronic injuries.
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Manage Pain and Inflammation. Chronic sports injuries often involve persistent pain and inflammation, which can hinder recovery and performance. Implementing strategies to manage pain and inflammation, such as regular icing, anti-inflammatory medications, or alternative therapies, like massage therapy, can provide relief and support the healing process. It’s essential to work with a healthcare professional to develop a comprehensive pain management plan tailored to your specific needs and preferences.
