Osteopathy and Sports: What you Need to Know
For many people, of varying ages and occupations, sport is a way of life. Whether you thrive on competing in individual pursuits or simply enjoy the participation of a team game, sporting activities are a great way to keep fit, make friends and enjoy your spare time. The reality of sporting participation for some, however, is the moan of minor injuries and afflictions often caused by not warming up properly, over exertion or simply a mistimed manoeuvre.
Whatever the reason, osteopathy may present a practical solution to the discomfort felt after taking part in sports activities.
Not only can an osteopath help by treating the injuries that have been sustained but they may also be able to improve the individual’s overall sporting performance.
Common sporting complaints that we see at an osteopathic practice may include:
- Tennis elbow
- Tendinitis
- Achilles injuries
- Muscle spasms
- General aches and pains
As sporting enthusiasts get older they may notice that they have reduced joint flexibility and this can contribute to the above complaints, however, it is not just older individuals who need to be wary of sporting injuries. Young people are especially vulnerable when playing sports as their bodies are still growing and developing and putting exceptional physical demands on their limbs and muscles during this time can lead to problems.
An osteopath can help to treat the aches and pains that are part and parcel of sporting participation, in patients of all ages, by restoring movement and improving performance. Treatment will involve a variety of techniques that aim to:
- Restore structural balance
- Improve joint mobility
- Improve muscle tone
- Reduce soft tissue restrictions
In addition to the physical treatment, an osteopath can also provide advice to the patient to reduce pain and discomfort in the future. This may include advising them to warm up and warm down sufficiently before and after exercise, drink plenty of water during exercise and build activity up slowly after an injury.
By talking to the individual to get a better understanding of what sports they take part in and why, the osteopath will not only be able to provide advice for preventative care but will also be better placed to deliver effective treatment.
Fiona Passey and Partners are a team of highly skilled professional healthcare practitioners, including osteopaths, who aim to treat the cause of the problem, not just the symptoms. To find out more about what their osteopaths can help please visit the Fiona Passey and Partners website.