The word acupuncture comes from the Latin word for needle (acus) and it means “puncturing of bodily tissue for the relief of pain”. Physiotherapy use of acupuncture in the form of dry needling is often confused with the Eastern medicine practice of acupuncture. While Chinese acupuncture is based on healing through correcting the energy flow …
Weight training is a demanding activity that calls for concentration, commitment and overall health and fitness. Although it is not a high-impact sport like rugby or football, injuries are still likely to occur if you don’t use the correct technique, if you employ poor posture while training or if you overstrain the muscles. These reasons …
The game of tennis is one that requires endurance, flexibility and good overall fitness. Many people become injured while playing tennis either from a sudden impact or from overuse of muscles and joints. Beginners are very likely to suffer injury as are those who take up tennis for the first time later in life. Some …
Soccer injuries cover a wide array of complaints and can involve every part of the body. From concussions (head trauma) to plantar fasciitis (foot pain at the bottom of the heel), soccer players are prone to them all. Some of the most common soccer injuries are: ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) tears Knee pain, swelling and …
On the surface, it would appear that swimming injuries are rare compared to that of other sports. After all, swimming is touted to be one of the best and safest forms of exercise. The fact is that injuries do occur among novices as well as competitive swimmers. The main areas that are injured while swimming …
Because of the nature of the sport, running injuries can be frequent and sometimes frustratingly disabling for prolonged periods. Many running injuries result from wearing improper footwear, overtraining, employing a poor running technique, and not warming up or cooling down properly. To avoid running injuries, athletes should pay attention to the above factors as well …
Netball is a game that calls for fast movements, lots of jumping and throwing and quick changes in direction. As a result, injuries of the foot and knee are very common. Being physically fit is not enough. Athletes should practise good jumping and landing techniques as well as warming up thoroughly and cooling down after …
Martial arts in its different forms carry with it the risk of injury, ranging from mild to severe. Seasoned martial arts performers stand a higher chance of sustaining a more serious injury due to the competitive nature of the sport. Amateurs are more likely to suffer contusions, sprains and strains. Before beginning martial arts or …
Field hockey is a tough sport requiring skill, fitness and the ability to make quick changes in direction. As a result, field hockey has a high percentage of soft tissue injuries. Some common field hockey injuries are: ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) rupture The ACL is an important ligament as it helps to stabilise the knee. …
The joy of cycling comes from a love of fresh air, good exercise and enjoyment of the sights along the road. Unfortunately, after a cycling injury, the pleasure of getting on a bike and enjoying the freedom of the ride can be overtaken by pain and discomfort. The good news is that physiotherapists are up …
