Osteopathy is a safe and natural approach to healthcare and recovery from injury. In many respects it is the ideal treatment for most sports injuries because it is concerned, essentially, with the way in which the whole body functions.
Two examples illustrate an Osteopath's ability not only to treat 'difficult' musculoskeletal problems but also to understand, diagnose and treat the body as a whole (including areas separate, but related to the symptomatic area). These features can make all the difference in recovery and return to fitness.
- A man in his late fifties, running at senior club level had a recurrent
history of calf injuries in his right leg. After being assessed by a variety
of therapists, he consulted an Osteopath who discovered the onset of the
problem was a change in occupation two years previously. His new job required
a lot of standing and examination revealed that he tended to stand with
his right leg slightly bent. As a result, the calf muscle had started
to shorten on that side. Osteopathy enabled him to stand more symmetrically,
thus reducing the tension in the right calf. An improved stretching routine
was then prescribed and a recovery from the injury (so far non-recurring)
was rapidly achieved.
- A forty year old woman who played badminton and tennis at County level had a six month history of severe 'tennis elbow' pain. She was concerned that her injury was worsening and she knew a number of people who had been forced to give up their sports due to similar problems. Her Osteopath discovered the problem was that her spine allowed very little rotation and her shoulder muscles (especially the 'rotator cuff') were very tight. She improved very well with treatment to her neck (where the nerve for the elbow arises from) and elbow. Importantly her shoulder and upper back mobility was treated and substantialy increased. This approach reduced the demands on her elbow and she not only returned to pain free racquet sports but also found her increased mobility meant she ended up having the most powerful smash shots she had ever had.
If you are taking up a new sporting activity, whether it is aerobics or football, seek the advice of a coach, trainer or instructor. You can then plan your programme so that it develops in parallel with your body's ability to cope.
Make sure you 'warm up' (and stretch) beforehand and 'warm down' and stretch afterwards. This is often not done well. If you are not sure, ask an expert!
If you become injured and you are in any doubt of the severity of the injury seek urgent medical advice.
Otherwise, remember PRICED - especially relevant for arm and leg injuries:
Prevention
Because it is always better to avoid any injuries by preparing adequately.
Rest
To prevent further injury (although your osteopath may recommend carefully
controlled movement even in the acute phase of an n injury).
Ice
Ice the injured area (not too cold : don't freeze it!). Heat may be appropriate
later on.
Compress
Compress the area (so that swelling is minimised).
Elevate
Elevate the injury (if it's a limb) to aid 'drainage'.
Diagnosis
It is much easier to know what to do with your injury if you understand
what damage has occurred.
Strapping or taping to protect an injury should be applied by an experienced
person who understands the injury..
