The Hidden Battle: Common Injuries in Combat Sports and the Vital Role of Physiotherapy

The Hidden Battle: Common Injuries in Combat Sports and the Vital Role of Physiotherapy

Common Injuries in Combat Sports:

1. Musculoskeletal Injuries

Musculoskeletal injuries are the most prevalent injuries in combat sports. According to research by

the American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine, strains and sprains account for

approximately 32% of MMA injuries (AOSSM, 2024). These injuries typically result from the

explosive, multidirectional movements required in combat, especially during takedowns and

transitions. Knee ligament tears and ankle sprains occur frequently due to pivoting and kicking

motions. These injuries can significantly impact an athlete’s mobility and stability, making early

intervention crucial (AOSSM, 2024). Hip injuries are increasingly recognised among combat sports

athletes, particularly due to the dynamic movements involved in these disciplines. Common hip

injuries include Labral Tears, Femeroacetabular Impingement (FAI) and Hip Flexor Strains.

The hand is one of the most commonly injured areas in mixed martial arts (MMA), primarily due to

repetitive striking. A study analysing 408 MMA fights, reported an upper limb injury rate of 9.9 per

100 athletic exposures, with the hand being the most frequently injured location (6.61 per 100

exposures). Specific injuries include carpometacarpal (CMC) instability, boxer’s knuckle, and skier’s

thumb. These conditions often result from repetitive stress and impact during training and

competition (Fares et al., 2022).

Shoulder injuries are prevalent among combat sports athletes, particularly due to the demands of

striking and grappling. Rotator cuff tears and labral tears are common shoulder injuries in these

athletes, often resulting from repetitive overhead movements and direct trauma.

2. Fractures and Dislocations

Fractures, especially to the hands and wrists, are common due to frequent striking. Dislocations,

particularly of the shoulder and elbow, are often associated with submission holds and throws

(AOSSM, 2024).

3. Concussions and Head Trauma

Head injuries remain a critical concern in combat sports. Concussions can result from both direct

head strikes and whiplash-type movements. Over time, recurrent concussions may lead to chronic

traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), a progressive neurological disorder (Torres, 2018).

 

The Role of Physiotherapy in Combat Sports

Physiotherapy plays a crucial role in injury management and improving performance for combat

sports athletes.

1. Injury Assessment and Rehabilitation

Physiotherapists conduct detailed assessments and develop personalised rehabilitation plans. These

often include exercises to improve joint stability, mobility, and strength—critical for recovering

from injuries such as ACL tears or rotator cuff strains (AOSSM, 2024).

2. Manual Therapy Techniques

Manual therapy, including joint mobilisations, myofascial release, and soft tissue manipulation, can

significantly reduce pain and facilitate recovery. Trifecta Therapeutics (2023) reports that hands-on

techniques are especially effective in managing joint and soft tissue dysfunctions.

3. Neuromuscular Re-education

This approach focuses on retraining the body to use correct movement patterns, which can prevent

reinjury and enhance athletic performance. It’s especially relevant for post surgical rehabilitation of

the lower limbs, where impaired biomechanics often lead to recurring issues (Kaur & Singh, 2017).

4. Preventive Strategies/ Education

Physiotherapists also educate athletes on injury prevention, emphasising proper warm-up,

stretching, and strength training.

 

Conclusion

Combat sports athletes face a high risk of various injuries due to the physical intensity and

unpredictability of competition. Physiotherapy plays a pivotal role not just in injury recovery, but in

building resilience, enhancing performance, and extending athletic careers. A well-rounded

physiotherapy program should be considered an essential part of every combat athlete’s training

regimen.

 

References
American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine (AOSSM), 2024. Mixed Martial Arts: Injury
Patterns, Trends, and Misconceptions. [online] Available at: https://www.sportsmed.org/
membership/sports-medicine-update/summer-2024/mixed-martial-arts-injury-patterns-trends-and-
misconceptions [Accessed 14 Apr. 2025].
Fares, M. Y., Baydoun, H., Elhassan, B., & Abboud, J. A. (2023). Upper limb injuries in mixed
martial arts. The Physician and sportsmedicine, 51(5), 434–441. https://doi.org/
10.1080/00913847.2022.2123257
Kaur, R. and Singh, J., 2017. Physiotherapy and martial arts. ResearchGate. [online] Available at:
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/319112469_Physiotherapy_and_martial_arts [Accessed
14 Apr. 2025].Torres, R., 2018. Mixed Martial Arts and the Risk of Concussion. Orlando Orthopaedic Center. [pdf]
Available at: https://www.orlandoortho.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Torres-Mixede-Martial-
Arts-min.pdf [Accessed 14 Apr. 2025].
Trifecta Therapeutics, 2023. 5 Ways Physical Therapy Can Knock Out Injuries in Combat Athletes.
[online] Available at: https://www.trifectatherapeutics.com/blog/rehab-for-the-combat-athlete-5-
ways-pt-can-ko-injuries [Accessed 14 Apr. 2025].

Welcoming the New Year: Prioritizing Your Health a Multi-disciplinary Approach

Welcoming the New Year: Prioritizing Your Health a Multi-disciplinary Approach

The New Year is here—a fresh opportunity to focus on health, set goals, and build habits that enhance your overall well-being. While resolutions often center on fitness or diet, a holistic approach involving allied health professionals can provide lasting benefits. This multidisciplinary field includes physiotherapists, podiatrists, chiropractors, exercise physiologists, dietitians, psychologists, occupational therapists, and more, all working collaboratively to improve your quality of life.

Why Allied Health?

Allied health professionals specialize in preventing, managing, and treating a variety of physical and mental health concerns. Whether you’re recovering from an injury, managing a chronic condition, or seeking ways to optimize your health, these experts can help. Beginning the year with a thorough assessment allows you to address any overlooked areas and create sustainable, personalized strategies to achieve your goals.

Setting Realistic and Sustainable Goals

New Year’s resolutions often falter due to unrealistic expectations. By consulting allied health professionals, you can set attainable goals and receive expert guidance to help you stay on track. For example:

  • Physiotherapists can create exercise programs to address injuries, build strength, or enhance mobility.
  • Podiatrists can assess foot mechanics and recommend orthotics or footwear for new sports or fitness routines.
  • Dietitians can provide meal plans tailored to your lifestyle, ensuring sustainable and nutritious choices.
  • Chiropractors can address spinal alignment and posture to improve function, alleviate pain, and enhance overall health.
  • Exercise Physiologists can guide you in developing safe and effective fitness routines, particularly if you’re new to exercise or managing chronic conditions like arthritis, diabetes, or heart disease.

With their expertise, your goals become actionable and achievable, reducing frustration and increasing long-term adherence.

The Importance of Preventative Health

A cornerstone of allied health is prevention. Regular visits to allied health professionals can help identify and address potential issues before they escalate. Examples include:

  • Chiropractic care to prevent postural issues and spinal strain from desk jobs or repetitive activities.
  • Exercise physiology to reduce the risk of injury when starting a new fitness program or transitioning to higher-intensity training.
  • Podiatry to prevent foot problems such as plantar fasciitis or bunions, especially if your routine involves prolonged standing or running.
  • Physiotherapy to address muscle imbalances or joint stiffness before they lead to chronic pain or injuries.

Preventative care not only helps you feel your best today but also safeguards your long-term health.

Holistic Health: Building Your Team

Achieving optimal health often requires a collaborative approach. By assembling a team of allied health professionals, you can address all aspects of your well-being: physical, mental, and emotional. For instance, pairing chiropractic care with physiotherapy may improve posture and mobility, while dietetic advice combined with exercise physiology ensures your body is fueled and conditioned for your goals.

Starting the Year Right

The New Year isn’t just about resolutions; it’s about commitment to your well-being. Whether you aim to recover from injury, manage a chronic condition, enhance athletic performance, or simply feel your best, allied health professionals are here to guide you. Their expertise ensures your approach is safe, effective, and tailored to your unique needs.

This year, let your health take center stage. Consult an allied health professional to craft a plan that empowers you to thrive—not just in January, but all year long. Together, you can build a healthier, more vibrant you. Here’s to a year of well-being and success!

4 Ways to Prevent “Tech Neck”

The short answer is yes. A chiropractor can help neck pain. Neck pain one of the most common presentations at The Wellness Place.

4 Ways to Prevent “Tech Neck”

Text neck is a repetitive stress injury of the neck
from having your head in a forward position for an extended period. This often happens due to
texting or staring at a phone and is prevalent in today’s society.


According to a recent orthopedic review, “text neck directly affects the spine while flexing the
head forward at varying degrees: when the head tilts forward 15 degrees, the force on the neck
surge to 27 pounds, at 30 degrees 40 pounds, at 45 degrees 49 pounds and at 60 degrees 60
pounds.”

That sounds stressful, doesn’t it? Check out our top tips below for preventing this
painful condition.


Raise your phone
Move your phone closer to eye level to prevent your head from tilting excessively forward,
limiting extra stress on your neck.


Take frequent breaks
Spend time away from your phone—or any type of head-forward task. You can set up screen
time limits on your phone for specific apps if needed.


Correct your posture
When using your phone or other e-device, ensure a good posture. Sit up straight with your chin
slightly tucked and your shoulders pulled back. This will help align your body in a more neutral
position.


Exercise regularly
Exercising regularly can create a robust and flexible spine that can better handle the extra
stress. Research indicates that teenagers active in team sports or endurance sports are less
likely to have neck pain.


Keep these tips in mind to stay healthy. And remember, we’re here to help when you’re feeling
uncomfortable.

Call our office if you suffer from neck pain due to text neck (or any other
reason). We can provide customized treatment to get you back on track quickly!

Why not book an appointment online and get a professional medical assessment and the right whiplash treatment plan, today?

Striding into Summer: A Sports Podiatrist’s Guide to Getting into Running Safely

Striding into Summer: A Sports Podiatrist's Guide to Getting into Running Safely

As the summer sun graces us with its warmth and vitality, many individuals feel the call to embrace a more active lifestyle. For those considering taking up running as their chosen form of exercise, it’s crucial to approach this endeavor with care, especially when it comes to foot health. In this blog post, we’ll explore the key aspects of getting into running from a sports podiatry perspective, ensuring that your summer stride is not only enjoyable but also safe and sustainable.

Choosing the Right Footwear:

One of the first steps towards a successful running journey is investing in the right pair of running shoes. Sports podiatrists emphasize the importance of proper footwear to support the unique biomechanics of each individual’s feet. Visit a specialty running store where knowledgeable staff can analyze your gait and recommend shoes that provide the right combination of support, cushioning, and stability. Ill-fitting shoes can lead to a myriad of foot issues, from blisters to more serious conditions like plantar fasciitis.

Some of our current favourite running shoes are the Brooks Glycerin GTS 21, Saucony Endorphin Speed 4 and the Altra Fwd Via.

Gradual Progression:

In the enthusiasm of starting a new fitness routine, it’s easy to overexert oneself. Sports podiatrists stress the significance of a gradual approach to prevent injuries. Begin with a mix of walking and jogging, allowing your body, especially your feet, to adapt to the new stress. This progressive method reduces the risk of overuse injuries such as stress fractures or tendonitis, common pitfalls for newcomers to running.

Proper Warm-Up and Cool Down:

Prior to hitting the pavement, it’s essential to warm up your muscles and joints. Dynamic stretches like leg swings and hip circles can enhance flexibility and reduce the likelihood of strain. After your run, perform static stretches to improve flexibility and aid in muscle recovery. A sports podiatrist can recommend specific stretches targeting the muscles and tendons in your feet, ankles, and lower legs.

Listen to Your Body:

Sports podiatrists often advocate for a mindful approach to running. Pay attention to any discomfort, pain, or changes in your gait. Addressing minor discomfort early can prevent it from developing into a more serious injury. If you experience persistent pain, it’s advisable to consult with a sports podiatrist who can assess your condition and provide tailored advice.

Cross-Training for Foot Health:

Running can place repetitive stress on certain muscles and joints, potentially leading to imbalances and injuries. To mitigate these risks, incorporate cross-training activities into your fitness routine. Swimming, cycling, or strength training can help strengthen supporting muscles and give your feet a break from the impact of running.

Foot Care Routine:

Maintaining proper foot hygiene is paramount for runners. Regularly inspect your feet for blisters, calluses, or any signs of irritation. Keep your toenails trimmed and invest in moisture-wicking socks to prevent fungal infections. If you notice any abnormalities or persistent issues, consult with a sports podiatrist for personalized guidance.

Conclusion:

Embarking on a running journey this summer can be a fulfilling and invigorating experience when approached with care and consideration for your foot health. By choosing the right footwear, progressing gradually, warming up and cooling down effectively, listening to your body, cross-training wisely, and maintaining a dedicated foot care routine, you can ensure that your summer stride is both enjoyable and sustainable. For personalized advice and guidance, don’t hesitate to consult with a sports podiatrist who can support you on your path to becoming a happy and healthy runner. 

 

Why Do I Get Swollen Feet And Ankles?

Why Do I Get Swollen Feet And Ankles?

Swollen feet and ankles can be commonly associated with either oedema or an inflammatory response to injury or infection. Standing for too long or consuming excess salt through your diet can also cause excess fluid retention.

Pregnancy can cause the feet and ankles to swell due to hormonal changes, and increased pressure on veins due to extra weight in the uterus.

Acute (short term) and Chronic (long term) injuries can cause an inflammatory reaction, with an increased blood flow to the injured site. Common injuries such as ankle sprains, Achilles tendon tears, broken bones, and underlying conditions such as Diabetes, Gout, and heart failure can all cause swelling in the lower limb, foot, and ankle.

As Podiatrists we take a through history and perform a detailed assessment to determine the cause of your foot and ankle swelling.  We provide a progressive treatment plan specific to you.

The Wellness Place Bassendean Chiropractic Care And Pregnancy

Embracing Pregnancy: Your Chiropractic Guide to a Happy Pelvis

Hey there, soon-to-be moms! Pregnancy is a magical ride, but it does come with its set of changes, especially in the pelvis. If you’re a chiropractic patient, understanding these shifts is key. Today, we’re going to explore how your Sacroiliac (SI) joints and some hormonal magic play a starring role in this journey and why a bit of chiropractic care can make it all a smoother ride.


Meet Your Backbone: Sacroiliac (SI) Joints

Picture this: your SI joints, hanging out at the base of your spine between your hips, are like the unsung heroes of stability, supporting the weight of your trunk. Ladies, your naturally wider pelvis is built for the miracle of childbirth, thanks to these joints and the awesome team of muscles and ligaments backing them up.


Hormones Take Center Stage: Progesterone and Relaxin

Around weeks 10-12 of your pregnancy, cue the hormonal symphony featuring progesterone and relaxin. These rockstars help your body get stretchy, allowing your ligaments and smooth muscles to accommodate that adorable little human growing inside you. Cool, right? But here’s the twist – all this hormonal buzz makes your SI joints a bit more mobile, shaking up their stability compared to your pre-pregnancy days.


Muscles Get a Wake-Up Call: Adapting to the New Normal

Now, as those SI joints start grooving, your belly, glutes, and pelvic floor muscles get the memo: it’s time to step up their game for stability during your everyday moves. Enter chiropractors specializing in pregnancy care. They’re like your personal pregnancy support team, checking out how your pelvis moves, keeping tabs on muscle tension, and making sure everything stays on the stable side.


Everyday Woes: Dealing with Pelvic Changes

Let’s talk real stuff – the increased mobility of your SI joints might bring some not-so-fun conditions like pelvic girdle pain, lower backache, and other discomforts. But fear not! Chiropractors are on it, watching over you throughout your pregnancy journey, providing relief, and helping you navigate these changes like the superhero you are.


Power to You: Chiropractic Care for a Happy Pregnancy

To wrap it up, getting chiropractic care during pregnancy is like giving your pelvis a little extra love. Your chiropractor checks in on your pelvic party, managing the hormonal rollercoaster, stability challenges, and muscle demands. It’s all about making sure you cruise through pregnancy with comfort and confidence, ready for the incredible adventure of motherhood. You’ve got this!

FAQs:

Q1: How does pregnancy affect the stability of the SI joints?

  • During pregnancy, hormones like progesterone and relaxin increase the movement of the SI joints, potentially making them less stable than before.

Q2: Can chiropractic care help with common pregnancy-related pains?

  • Yes, chiropractors specializing in pregnancy care can assess and address conditions such as pelvic girdle pain, lower back pain, and others.

Q3: How often should I visit a chiropractor during pregnancy?

  • Regular check-ins, especially during the different trimesters, can provide ongoing relief and proactive guidance on managing pelvic changes.

Q4: Are there specific exercises to strengthen the pelvis during pregnancy?

  • Yes, chiropractors can recommend tailored exercises to strengthen the pelvis, contributing to a more comfortable pregnancy experience.

If you are going through pregnancy at the minute and want to know how one of our Chiropractors can help you out, give us a call on (08)93793838 or book an appointment here

Can a Chiropractor Help with Whiplash?

The short answer is yes. A chiropractor can help treat whiplash. Whiplash injuries are one of the most common presentations at The Wellness Place.

What is a whiplash injury?

A chiropractor can help treat a whiplash injury
A chiropractor can help treat a whiplash injury

A whiplash injury occurs when a force is applied to the neck involving a sudden forwards and backwards whipping movement such as during a car accident. This is commonly termed an acceleration-deceleration injury.

You may be surprised to know that a whiplash injury may also result from a blow to the head (such as sporting games) or from the head hitting the ground (such as falling from height or swings).

This causes damage to multiple structures in the neck resulting in pain and inflammation and associated with restricted movement due to muscle spasms around the neck as well as facet joints in the neck (the joints at the back of your neck) being jammed and inflamed. Ligaments, discs and nerves in your neck are equally affected and can contribute to your pain and disability.

Pain and dysfunction associated with whiplash injuries may last from a few weeks to months or even years. The pain can be quite difficult to pinpoint and not necessarily related to the speed of the collision but rather the person’s response just before and at the time of injury.

In addition to this, the person’s previous history, age, gender and general health can have direct and indirect influence on their presentation.

Why a whiplash injury assessment is the first step to successful recovery

While there are many whiplash treatment suggestions, your chiropractor will first conduct a thorough history to determine the mode of the injury. The direction of the collision (if a motor vehicle accident was the cause), your history, your presentation and your restricted movements. Nervous system involvement or muscle spasms need to be all assessed and taken into consideration.

Your muscular system is usually one of the first systems affected when you suffer from a whiplash injury. That is why muscle spasms leading to restriction of movement is a common presentation associated with whiplash.

Nervous system involvement usually is an indicative of the extent of damage with patients presenting with pins and needles, numbness or referred pain not to mention other unusual symptoms such as balance, vertigo or vision disturbances.

Following this, your chiropractor conducts a through neurological test and orthopaedic assessment. This at times can be difficult due to the degree of pain a patient can present with, however it is still quite important to determine the true cause of your pain.

Your chiropractor will then advise the best mode of action and therapy you need. In the initial phase, treatment is directed at reducing pain through gentle stretches, ice or heat and physiological therapeutics (including TENS therapy, Interferential electrical stimulation and ultrasound therapy). As your pain starts to subside, the chiropractor aims to improve the mobility of your neck by utilising gentle stretching, mobilisation and soft tissue therapy.

You may be referred for therapeutic massage to assist with your chiropractic treatment. Chiropractic adjustments can be utilised as your tolerance improves to correct faulty movement patterns.

How does a chiropractor treat whiplash?

Different chiropractic whiplash treatments are used by different health professionals. The type of technique utilised is usually determined by the patient’s presentation and preference.

Spinal manipulation techniques are found to be very effective at addressing the neck pain stemming from the spinal joints and are often a primary whiplash treatment option. Other manual therapy methods such as spinal decompression and traction and mobilisation are all shown to be highly effective ways to treat injured soft tissues.

Some chiropractors may use instrument assisted therapy such as an Activator instrument which has been received well by patients who prefer a gentle approach to their chiropractic care especially when they are so inflamed. Some chiropractors may perform gentle repeated strokes to the neck muscles in order to improve abnormal motion and excessive tension in the region.

Therapeutic massage aims to alleviate muscle tension. Chiropractic treatments can be complemented by an effective soft tissue therapy resulting in muscle relaxation. This can assist the patient’s speed of recovery.

Advice to address your poor posture can be invaluable when dealing with whiplash injury presentations.

FAQs about chiropractic treatment for whiplash injuries

What are some common whiplash symptoms?

While some patients may experience immediate aches and pain and associated symptoms such as shoulder pain, headaches, neck pain, or muscle pain, you may be surprised to know that many patients can experience pain in days and weeks after the accident. Pins and needles, numbness, referred pain to the face, jaw or arms as well as absurd neurological signs and symptoms such as blurred vision or vertigo have been reported. Some studies also have shown patients can experience dramatic symptomatology years after an accident. It is extremely important that you get checked even if you do not experience any pain or symptoms immediately after an accident as unfortunately, in many cases your symptoms may appear weeks or months later.

What is the best whiplash treatment?

A thorough examination determines what the best treatment for your condition may be. Depending on the extent of your injury, you may find yourself having muscles, joints, ligaments, muscles or other associated structures injured. Each of these require a delicate and specific approach and treatment plan.

You may require some imaging to be performed to ascertain the extent of your damage as well as your pre-existing condition. Depending on your presentation and assuming that there is no contraindication to conservative therapies, your Chiropractor and/or physiotherapist can guide you who would be best suited for your condition.

At The Wellness Place, we believe in a patient-centric environment. This means that your practitioner would unbiasedly inform you if another discipline can assist you better for your presentation and the stage of your care.

How long does whiplash take to heal?

Your pre-existing condition and your history as well as the extent of your injury and the damage you have sustained, would collectively determine how long it would take to heal. We usually find our patients responding really well to care within the first week or two. In this initial phase, the practitioner would mainly focus on reducing your pain and inflammation. This means that you would experience less symptomatology as well as enjoy better range of motion, sleep and functionality.

What is the fastest way to recover from whiplash?

Early intervention is crucial when it comes to managing whiplash. In most cases, the longer a patient delays presenting to care, the more the chance of their presentation getting more chronic and harder to treat.

As previously stated, many patients can experience none to very minor symptoms post an accident. However, In our experience the very same patient can present with complex and difficult presentation a few weeks later. This is the reason we recommend the early intervention to be a necessary aspect of your care plan.

Appropriate care plan with a thorough and detailed approach to your condition would have you back to normal in no time!

How do I realign my neck after whiplash?

Your chiropractor may recommend undertaking some X-ray studies post your accident. This allows your chiropractor to provide you with a more definitive diagnosis of your condition and ensure chiropractic care is a suitable therapy of choice.

Chiropractic adjustments in conjunction with therapeutic massage has been shown to be one of the most effective whiplash treatments. While some patients may prefer physiotherapy or occupational therapy treatment plans, your health professional would guide you what the best discipline would be for your condition and presentation.

Should I see a chiro or a physio for whiplash treatment?

At the Wellness Place, we operate on a patient centric mandate. We promise to provide our patients with a thorough assessment to allow your health professional advise you on the best approach to care.

In our experience, patients would simply like to see results and are open to honest and educated recommendations. We always offer the patient most suitable care for their presentation.

Occasionally, some patients have a preference of seeing a physio or chiro. All our practitioners are highly qualified, experienced and undertaken advanced and post graduate training. This means that we will be able to assist you in reaching your goals regardless of who you choose to see.

Why not book an appointment online and get a professional medical assessment and the right whiplash treatment plan, today?

Reformer Pilates and Mat Pilates at The Wellness Place

Main Benefits of Pilates

The primary benefits of Pilates are core muscle strengthening and posture correction. Here are some specific benefits you may experience:

  • Increased strength, muscular control, flexibility, and mobility
  • Improved posture and balanced muscles
  • Improved joint health and bone density
  • improved balance
  • Rehabilitation for back pain and extremity pain
  • Improved pelvic health
  • Decreased pregnancy-related pain and strengthened core postpartum

Postnatal Classes Offered

One of the best ways to help your body return to its pre-pregnancy state is through Pilates. Some of the benefits include strengthening the pelvic floor, abdominal. low back muscles and leg and arm strength. Helping new mums regain their fitness and energy levels and help build the strength to carry bub!

Issues that Pilates can help with:

post and pre-natal conditions, lower back pain, poor posture, neck, shoulder and Upper back pain, extremity injuries, balance issues.

Pilates strengthens the body to prevent recurring issues from coming back.

How to Prepare

Please dress in comfortable workout clothes and bring a drink bottle. The Wellness Place provides mats, however you are more than welcome to bring your own mat if you prefer. For your first class, you will need to arrive 15 minutes early to fill out additional paperwork. This will also allow time for you to chat with your instructor if you have any additional questions.

Your instructor will provide detailed instruction for all movements as well as individualised modifications if required. The most important element is that you are having fun. The next day you might feel muscles that you have never felt before.

How Are Yoga and Pilates Different?

While yoga and Pilates are both fantastic forms of exercise, there are some primary differences. Pilates focuses on increasing core strength and endurance and improving posture. Yoga focuses on stress reduction, meditation, and flexibility.

One-on-One Clinical Pilates

We are pleased to offer one-on-one clinical Pilates which is a form of physical exercise that focuses on posture, core stability, balance, control, strength, flexibility, and breathing. This type of Pilates is more custom-tailored to treat your symptoms than regular Pilates. With the one-on-one classes, you get the individual attention that’s more based on your specific needs and goals.

 

Whether you’re seeking to increase muscle strength, improve flexibility or just boost your overall wellbeing, you should consider Pilates at our practice. Pilates connects the mind and body through precise movements and physical control. Each movement is designed to lengthen, strengthen, and stretch muscle groups through non-impact movements.

Pilates is suitable for almost all demographics including teenagers, athletes, pregnant women, and the elderly. If you’re new to Pilates there’s nothing to feel nervous about. The most important thing is to have fun!

When Should I See a Physio for Knee Pain?

Should I see a physio for pain in my knee?

Whether it’s a recent knee injury or a nagging pain that just won’t go away, you’ve decided to seek help. You’re probably wondering, ‘Should I see a doctor or a physio for my knee pain?’

The answer depends on your symptoms. While physiotherapists can treat a variety of knee injuries and reduce pain successfully, there are situations in which you should contact a doctor.

When should I see a doctor instead?

Some symptoms require immediate medical attention since they could be signs of a serious underlying condition, such as infection, a blood clot, a broken bone, or an injury that requires surgery. You should seek out a doctor’s care at the emergency department if:

  • Your pain is unbearable
  • Your knee looks misshapen or extremely swollen
  • Your knee or its surrounding tissue is hot or red
  • You have a fever

Also, you should consider making an appointment with an orthopaedic doctor if your knee will not bear weight, if it feels locked or incapable of movement, or if it shifts or gives way when you put weight on it – in this case, you may require knee surgery. Some conditions such as knee osteoarthritis that can’t be managed with regular exercise, a healthy diet, or equipment may require surgery.

Otherwise, a good physio can usually handle most types of pain of the knee joint and surrounding muscles and prescribe exercises and other interventions that can help you heal – and even prevent future knee trouble.

What can a physio do for my knee pain?

A Physiotherapist can assess and diagnose the cause of your knee pain and then provide you with a custom treatment plan that will relieve your pain and help you recover more quickly. Many of the exercises your physio prescribes for you will eventually help to strengthen the muscles surrounding your knee, giving your knee joint added support.

Dry needling and manual therapy may also be recommended.

Activity modification to help reduce pain e.g. if your diagnosis is runner’s knee, swapping it out for low impact exercise like cycling or swimming will help your knees and muscles recover faster.

Injuries such as patellar tendinopathy (patellar tendonitis or tendinitis) otherwise known as Jumper’s knee may benefit from cryotherapy and rest, but may also require specific biomechanics or strength training intervention.

If you’re dealing with knee pain that has given rise to chronic inflammation, your physio might recommend that you work with a nutritionist, massage therapist, or chiropractor to reduce the inflammation through a holistic approach.

In addition, physiotherapy is often an essential ingredient in your recovery from serious knee injuries. So, if you’re seeing an orthopaedic physician for a serious injury, your doctor will likely refer you to a physiotherapist at some point in the treatment process.

However, you don’t need to obtain a referral from a doctor to make an appointment with a physio. Physiotherapists have the qualifications to diagnose and treat most conditions that cause knee problems so long as the condition is treatable by physical means.

Physio treating a paitent for knee pain

Can I do physiotherapy for knee pain at home?

While treatments themselves occur inside the physio’s own facilities, your therapist will likely assign you some exercises that you can do at home to speed your recovery.

First, you’ll perform each exercise under your physio’s supervision to make sure you’re doing them correctly. Then, when you’ve mastered these exercises, you can perform them at home as your physiotherapist directs.

Exercise and other treatment options to treat pain affecting the knee cap, cartilage, muscles and ligaments will vary based on the condition causing the pain. Some of the best physio exercises for knee problems include:

  • Hamstring stretches
  • Calf stretches
  • Isometric quadriceps contractions
  • Straight leg raises
  • Calf raises
  • Low-impact aerobics
  • Postural correction exercises
  • Bridges
  • Knee extensions with resistance bands
  • Leg side raises with resistance bands

When you combine physiotherapy with home exercises, a healing diet (excess weight is a leading contributor), stress reduction, and other natural treatments, you’ll have a better chance of knocking your knee pain and muscle soreness out for good.

At The Wellness Place, we have a broad range of holistic therapies that treat the whole body. For professional medical advice, get in touch with our Perth-based team in Bassendean today.