Shoulder Pain and the Rotator Cuff
As a physiotherapist working with Powerhouse Rugby Union FC, one of the most commonly injured areas of the body I see is the shoulder. However, research and clinical experience tells us that it is not just athletes that suffer from shoulder pain, with up to two thirds of the general population experiencing shoulder pain in […]
Complexities of Groin Pain
Chronic groin pathology is most commonly related to sports that involve running, agility and repetitive kicking. In most cases, there is no visible injury. Symptoms can appear suddenly with no obvious cause or can be more gradual in onset. Males are more at risk of developing chronic groin pain with reportedly a twofold higher rate in male compared to female football […]
Kneeling hip flexor stretch
Do you spend most of your day sitting? If you do, this is a great stretch for you! Tightness through the front of the hips can decrease your ability to extend the hip. This can result in lower back, hip, pelvic or hamstring injuries. Key points: Start in a kneeling lunge position with both knees […]
Calf stretch
This is a great stretch for women who wear heels all day! These muscles can impact on your risk of knee and ankle injuries, as well as further up the chain. Key points: These stretches are best performed at the end of the day, or after activity. Make sure both feet are facing forwards and […]
Squat
For most people the squat position is performed multiple times a day, most likely without even noticing! Although this is a difficult movement to master, an effective squat can decrease your risk of a lower back injury and is a great movement to improve lower body strength. Key points: Start in standing. Sit your bottom […]
Aeroplane
Have you got good control of the lower back, pelvis and hip? Test yourself with this this exercise! Good control of these three areas can decrease your risk of lower back, hip and lower limb injury. Key points: Start in standing. Maintaining a natural curve in your lower back and level pelvis, tip forward from […]
Book opener
Have you got neck, lower back or shoulder pain? This exercise can improve mobility of the mid-back, also known as the thoracic spine. Thoracic spine mobility is necessary to allow good shoulder range of motion and unrestricted breathing, as well as avoid overloading of the neck and lower back. Key points: start in side lying […]