Newly published research has shown that the experience of feeling “stiff” does not reflect actual biomechanical back stiffness (Stanton et al., 2017). This perception of stiffness that we sometimes experience may actually be a protective sensitivity produced by our bodies to reduce movement or potential injury. Any pain, discomfort or “stiffness” we experience at any […]
Read More“Do I need a scan?” Diagnostic imaging is a fantastic and commonly utilised tool in healthcare. Imaging allows clinicians to get detailed pictures of structures in our body to make or confirm a diagnosis, or to rule out serious pathology. There are many forms of imaging currently available (X-Ray, US, MRI, CT scan, PET, […]
Read MoreITB Tightness & Lateral Knee Pain A far too common mistake made by physiotherapists & health professionals alike is to blame all lateral knee pain on a tight ITB (illiotibial band), with the solution being: get on a foam roller and roll the crap out of it. I see far too many athletes, and […]
Read MoreRecovery from Sport and Physical Activity Athletes, both at local and elite levels, put lots of time and effort into recovery from their sport or activity of choice. There are many common recovery modalities used at all levels of performance, including but not limited to: -Compression -Foam rollers -Ice baths […]
Read MoreShoulder pain is in the top 3 most common reasons why people present to physiotherapists, and rotator cuff issues make up a large majority of these. It is always important that clinicians take an evidence-based approach to patient care, and thankfully the shoulder is an area that has been thoroughly researched. Common conservative interventions given […]
Read MoreMany runners stay away from the gym, but are missing out on huge benefits… A recent systematic review (Balsalobre-Fernández et al., 2016) showed that strength training significantly improves running economy in middle and long distance runners. This means faster running and less injuries! It is recommended to: *Include 2-4 lower body resistance exercises (e.g. squats, […]
Read MoreLooking for an easy but effective method of recovery after exercise? Try a pair of skins, or any similar compression garment. A recently published review of the literature found compression garments to be effective in recovery from resistance exercise, as well as from endurance exercise – improving the restoration of both strength and […]
Read MoreSELF-MYOFASCIAL RELEASE Self-myofascial release (SMR) refers to using some form of foam roller/PVC pipe/spikey ball/lacrosse ball to roll out/massage/release tight/painful/restricted muscles and tissues in order to decrease pain and improve mobility. However the thought process behind SMR and the mechanisms of action is poorly understood. The name in itself implies something that is anatomically inaccurate. […]
Read MorePHYSIO vs OSTEO vs CHIRO vs MYO Always a common question… what is the difference between physiotherapists, chiropractors, osteopaths and myotherapists? The reality is, lines are blurred, and all 4 professions specialise in helping people with lots of the same conditions. Generally speaking, myotherapists may have a bias towards a range of […]
Read MorePAIN IS NOT DIRECTLY CORRELATED TO TISSUE DAMAGE Tissue damage can occur without having a pain experience… 🔹Ever noticed a bruise and can’t recall how you go it? Likewise, severe pain can exist despite only minor tissue damage… 🔸Paper cut = very small injury but bloody painful! Pain is influenced […]
Read More