Physiotherapy is the most effective modality for managing musculoskeletal conditions. Your physiotherapist will help in all stages of healing, from acute to functional training.
In acute stages, the main goal is to control pain and swelling. Then progressing to improve muscle strength, motor control and finally improve function.
It can be used following acute injuries, for chronic conditions, before and after surgery.
Using best practice and a wide range of techniques we guarantee to tailor the best treatment to help you achieving your goals.
Knee
Knee pain can come with several facets. Anterior knee pain (from the patellar tendon, or PFP), medial or lateral pain (from meniscus or collateral ligaments), behind the knee (from the calf muscles, popliteal or a bakers cyst). It can be either traumatic or non-traumatic, increase with going up or down stairs, standing for too long, running, walking, etc. Several structures can get irritated and be a source of symptoms, and they would have different time frames for recovery and would require different treatment approach. A physio would perform a clinical assessment that together with the history, help to identify the structure responsible for the symptoms and guide treatment. Imaging is not always needed, as the clinical assessment, most times, is quite sufficient to understand what is going on and direct the best treatment options. If imaging is required, a physio can refer on for an X-ray or MRI, saving an unnecessary trip to the GP. A combination of manual therapy and exercise (20-80%) would best comprise an evidence based and best practice treatment for knee pain.
ACL injury (surgical or non-surgical interventions)
ACL tear is a serious injury, that can lead to prolonged knee impairments. A complete ACL tear can be treated with or without surgical reconstruction. ACL reconstruction (ACLR) is very much used as a primary intervention, to reconstruct the ligament; however, recent studies have shown that some subgroup of individuals can recover from an ACL tear without surgical intervention and still get back to playing in an elite level of sports. Full knee mobility, with no swelling and good quadriceps strength is key whether you will have surgery or not. A good pre op quads and knee condition can improve outcomes following surgery and facilitate return to sport. ACL physio consists of improving knee mobility, reduce pain and exercises to improve leg strength (hip, thigh and calves) as well as to recover knee stability. A progressive program will work from light non- weightbearing exercises to agility drills and sprints on the field. A full recovery from surgery to return to play will take anywhere from 9-14 months of intense exercise and transition to a safe return to sport. After 9 months of ACLR, for every month return to sport is delayed, a further ~ 30% reduction in reinjury is expected. Physio will be hard, will be lengthy, but if it wasn’t, would it even be worth it? Earn it, it will be a long journey, but you can count with us.
Anterior knee pain, often linked to conditions such as patellar tendinopathy or patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFP), is a common issue that can significantly affect mobility and quality of life. This type of pain typically arises from overuse or injury and can manifest during activities like climbing stairs, running, or prolonged standing.
Effective management of anterior knee pain involves a thorough clinical assessment to identify the underlying causes. Treatment options may include targeted physiotherapy exercises to strengthen the surrounding muscles, improve knee stability, and reduce pain. In some cases, imaging studies may not be necessary, as a skilled physiotherapist can often determine the best course of action through a detailed physical examination.
ACL Injury Rehabilitation
Rehabilitation following an Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) injury is crucial for athletes and individuals aiming to return to their previous activity levels. The rehabilitation process typically focuses on restoring knee mobility, reducing pain, and strengthening the muscles around the knee, including the hips and calves.
Research indicates that a well-structured physiotherapy program can significantly enhance recovery outcomes. For instance, studies show that individuals who engage in a comprehensive rehabilitation regimen post-ACL reconstruction may experience a reduced risk of reinjury, with a 30% decrease in reinjury rates for each month delayed in returning to sports after surgery.
Importance of Tailored Physiotherapy Treatments
Every individual’s recovery journey is unique, and tailored physiotherapy treatments are essential for effective rehabilitation. Personalized treatment plans take into account the specific injury, the patient's lifestyle, and their recovery goals, ensuring that each session addresses their unique needs.
For example, a customized approach may include a mix of manual therapy, exercise prescription, and modalities such as dry needling or soft tissue release. This individualized strategy not only enhances the effectiveness of the treatment but also motivates patients to adhere to their rehabilitation protocols, ultimately leading to better outcomes.
Complementary Physiotherapy Techniques
Complementary techniques in physiotherapy can play a vital role in enhancing recovery from musculoskeletal injuries. These methods, which include dry needling, soft tissue release, and exercise prescription, are designed to alleviate pain and improve function.
For instance, dry needling targets trigger points in muscles to relieve tension and promote healing, while soft tissue release techniques help improve blood flow and flexibility. Incorporating these techniques into a comprehensive treatment plan can accelerate recovery and enhance the overall effectiveness of physiotherapy interventions.
