Lower back pain and golfers

golfResearch suggests that the incidence of insidious low back pain (LBP) in golfers may occur as a result of factors such as cumulative load from high volume swing practice; lateral shearing forces created on the downswing by trunk side flexion and trunk rotation; an over-rotation of the trunk on the backswing, and /or core muscle dysfunction, to name a few.

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Hydration in sport

physiotherapy - hydrationHydration in sport is vital to replace the loss of fluid that our body perspires, which controls our body temperature as we utilize energy. If we do not replace this fluid we overheat and dehydrate, which may lead to a decrease in performance and an increased risk of injury.

To minimize dehydration, athletes need to drink enough in exercise to match their sweat loss. Read more

Shin splints

Shin splintsShin splints, also known as medial tibial stress syndrome, is a term for pain on the front inside part of the lower leg. Shin splints involves inflamed muscle, tendons, and the thin layer of tissue that covers the bone.

Shin splints happen over a period of time when constant pounding and stress are placed on the bones , muscles and joints of the lower leg. The result is irritation and inflammation, both of which cause pain.

Factors that may contribute to to shin splints may include: Read more

Factors predisposing athletes to groin pain

physio-groin-painGroin pain is one of the most frustrating injuries for athletes in terms of lost time from sport.

Research indicates several risk factors that may contribute to the development of groin pain and predispose an athlete to these injuries. Some are more strongly supported than others in systematic review of the literature.

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Trigger points

physio-trigger-pointsTrigger points are described as a tender spot in a tight band of muscle, that is painful on palpation or touch. They are commonly called “knots” and may cause pain locally, may refer pain to a different area of the body or may limit range of motion. They are caused by overactivity in a muscle, which may be a result of the likes of poor posture, muscle imbalances, overuse in sport or daily activities, or stress. Read more

Tips for healthy computer use

physio-tips-computer-posturePoor posture whilst sitting at the computer can cause pain in the back, neck and shoulders. Here is some helpful tips for healthy computer use.

1. Always sit in an adjustable comfortable office chair, pull the chair in close to the desk and adjust the height of the seat so that your elbows, hips and knees are bent at approximately 90 degrees. Your feet should rest flat on the floor or on a footrest if needed.

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