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The Best Physiotherapy Exercises for ACL Rehab

Tearing your ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) is one of the most challenging knee injuries especially if you’re active or play sports. Whether you’ve had surgery or are going the non-operative route, physiotherapy plays a vital role in your recovery. In this blog, we’ll walk you through the best physiotherapy exercises for ACL rehab, broken down by phase, to help you return to full function safely and confidently.

Why ACL Rehab Matters

The ACL is key to knee stability. Without proper rehab, you’re at risk of long-term weakness, instability, and re-injury. A structured physiotherapy plan strengthens the surrounding muscles, restores your range of motion, and improves coordination, especially important for athletes and active individuals.

Phase 1: Early Recovery (Weeks 1–3)

Goals: Reduce swelling, regain basic mobility, and activate key muscles.

Top Exercises:

  • Heel Slides: Help restore range of motion without putting stress on the knee.
  • Quad Sets: Gently wake up the quadriceps, which often shut down after injury.
  • Straight Leg Raises: Build strength without bending the knee too much.
  • Ankle Pumps: Improve circulation and reduce swelling.

Tip: Ice and elevation are your best friends during this phase.

Phase 2: Strength Building (Weeks 3–6)

Goals: Improve muscle strength, balance, and flexibility.

Top Exercises:

  • Mini Squats (with support if needed): Activate glutes and quads in a controlled way.
  • Bridges: Strengthen hamstrings, glutes, and core.
  • Step-Ups: Use a small step to start re-training functional movement.
  • Resistance Band Leg Presses: Provide controlled strengthening without joint impact.

Tip: Focus on slow, controlled movements and avoid compensating with your hips or back.

Phase 3: Functional Movement (Weeks 6–12)

Goals: Return to normal walking, jogging, and light sport-specific drills.

Top Exercises:

  • Lunges (static and walking): Strengthen the entire lower limb chain.
  • Balance Exercises on a Bosu Ball: Improve proprioception and stability.
  • Side-Stepping with Band Resistance: Target the hip abductors for lateral support.
  • Single-Leg Deadlifts: Rebuild strength, balance, and hamstring control.

Tip: Start incorporating light agility drills only under physiotherapist supervision.

Phase 4: Return to Sport (3–6+ Months)

Goals: Regain full strength, coordination, and confidence.

Top Exercises:

  • Plyometric Drills (Jumping, bounding): Train explosive power and landing control.
  • Agility Ladder Workouts: Build speed and reaction time.
  • Sport-Specific Drills: Practice movements you’ll use in your sport.
  • Single-Leg Hops: Test knee stability and readiness for dynamic activity.

When to See a Physiotherapist

Every ACL injury is different. Seeing a licensed physiotherapist ensures your rehab plan is safe, progressive, and tailored to your specific needs.

Rehabbing an ACL injury isn’t just about healing. It’s about coming back stronger, smarter, and more resilient. These physiotherapy exercises are essential building blocks, but consistent guidance and proper technique make all the difference. Stick with the process, trust your physio, and you’ll be back on your feet in no time. If you have injured your ACL and are looking to start physiotherapy, contact the professionals at Durham Orthopedic Clinic. 

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Massage Therapy for Stress Relief: How It Works and Why It Helps

In today’s fast paced world, stress can feel like a constant companion. Whether it’s work pressure, family responsibilities, or simply the demands of daily life, many of us are carrying more stress than we realize. Massage Therapy is one of the most effective and natural ways to manage that stress.

What Does Stress Do to the Body?

Stress isn’t just psychological, it impacts your body in powerful ways. It can:

  • Tighten muscles
  • Disrupt sleep
  • Increase blood pressure
  • Weaken the immune system
  • Cause headaches, fatigue, and anxiety

Over time, chronic stress can contribute to more serious conditions like heart disease and depression.

How Massage Therapy Helps

Massage therapy offers a safe, noninvasive way to reduce stress and rebalance your body. It does this in a few ways.

1. Reduces Muscle Tension

Stress often shows up physically as tight shoulders, a stiff neck, or lower back pain. Massage therapy targets these areas, helping muscles release built up tension and improving overall mobility.

2. Promotes Relaxation

Massage activates the parasympathetic nervous system, your body’s “rest and digest” mode. This slows your heart rate, lowers blood pressure, and signals the body to relax.

3. Boosts Mood

Massage stimulates the release of feel-good hormones like serotonin and dopamine, while reducing cortisol, the stress hormone. Many clients leave a session feeling calmer, lighter, and more balanced.

4. Improves Sleep

By easing physical tension and calming the nervous system, massage can improve sleep quality, a vital component of stress recovery.

5. Encourages Mind Body Awareness

Taking an hour for yourself, focusing on your body, and being present can all contribute to a greater sense of control and well-being, something we often lose during stressful periods.

Best Massage Techniques for Stress Relief

Some techniques are particularly effective for stress:

  • Swedish massage: Gentle, flowing strokes to promote relaxation
  • Deep tissue massage: Targets deeper layers of muscle to relieve chronic tension
  • Head, neck, and shoulder massage: Ideal for desk workers and tension headaches
  • Aromatherapy massage: Combines essential oils with massage for enhanced calming effects

How Often Should You Get a Massage?

For stress relief, consistency matters. Even one massage per month can make a difference, but weekly or biweekly sessions are ideal during high-stress periods.

Book Your Massage Therapy Today

If stress is affecting your body or your quality of life, massage therapy might be the reset you need. At Durham Orthopedic and Sports Injury Clinic, our registered massage therapists tailor each session to your needs, helping you relax, restore, and feel like yourself again.

Contact us today to schedule your appointment.

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Pulled Groin Muscle? Here’s How Physiotherapy Can Help

A pulled groin, also known as a groin strain is a common injury, especially among athletes who play sports like soccer, hockey, or tennis. It occurs when the inner thigh muscles (called adductors) are overstretched or torn. While painful and inconvenient, a pulled groin can heal well with the right physiotherapy plan.

If you’re dealing with groin pain, our team at Durham Orthopedic & Sports Injury Clinic is here to help.

What Are the Signs of a Pulled Groin?

  • Sharp pain in the inner thigh
  • Swelling or bruising
  • Difficulty walking or changing directions quickly
  • Weakness in the leg

Early treatment is essential to avoid long-term complications and re-injury.

Phase 1: Immediate Care (0–3 Days After Injury)

In the first 72 hours after a groin strain, the goal is to reduce inflammation and pain.

  • Rest: Avoid sports or movements that make it worse.
  • Ice: Apply cold packs for 15–20 minutes, 3–5 times per day.
  • Compression: Consider a groin wrap for support.
  • Elevation: If possible, keep the leg elevated to reduce swelling.
  • Important: Don’t stretch the muscle during this stage. It could worsen the tear.

Phase 2: Gentle Movement & Pain-Free Strength (Days 4–10)

After the initial inflammation has reduced, physiotherapy focuses on gentle activation of the groin muscles.

  • Isometric Exercises: Lying down and gently pressing your knees together.
  • Mobility Work: Pain-free leg slides and basic movements to restore motion.
  • Modalities: Laser therapy or ultrasound may be used to promote healing.

Phase 3: Strength & Stability (Weeks 2–3)

Once pain is under control, it’s time to rebuild strength and prevent future injuries.

  • Resistance Exercises: Bands and bodyweight movements to strengthen the inner thigh.
  • Core Strengthening: Planks, bridges, and pelvic control work to support the hip and groin.
  • Gentle Stretching: Adductor and hip flexor stretches, guided by a physiotherapist.

Phase 4: Functional & Sport-Specific Training (Weeks 3–6+)

As healing progresses, we’ll get you back to full strength with dynamic training.

  • Lateral Lunges & Step-Ups: Great for regaining control and mobility.
  • Agility Drills: Side shuffles, ladder work, and directional changes (introduced gradually).
  • Sport Re-integration: Tailored to your sport, under professional supervision.

When to See a Physiotherapist

You should consult a physiotherapist if:

  • Pain lasts more than 7–10 days
  • You’re limping or can’t bear weight
  • You’re an athlete and want a safe return to sport

At Durham Orthopedic & Sports Injury Clinic, we treat sports injuries like groin strains with personalized rehab programs. Whether you’re an athlete or just want to move pain-free again, our team is here to support your recovery from start to finish. Contact us today to book your appointment!

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Dealing with Tendonitis: Treatment and Prevention for Athletes

If you’re an athlete, you’ve probably heard of tendonitis. Whether you’re a runner, tennis player, or just someone who loves to stay active, tendonitis can sideline you and keep you from performing at your best. At Durham Orthopedic & Sports Injury Clinic, we understand how frustrating it can be to deal with tendonitis, and we want to help you get back to what you love.

What is Tendonitis?

Tendonitis occurs when a tendon (the tissue that connects your muscles to bones) becomes irritated or inflamed. It usually happens when you overuse or strain a tendon, especially in areas that get a lot of use during sports – like the shoulder, elbow, knee, or achilles. You may notice pain, swelling, or stiffness in the affected area.

Some common types of tendonitis in athletes include:

  • Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis)
  • Golfer’s Elbow (Medial Epicondylitis)
  • Achilles Tendonitis
  • Patellar Tendonitis (Jumper’s Knee)
  • Rotator Cuff Tendonitis

Why Does Tendonitis Happen?

Tendonitis occurs because of repetitive movements – things like throwing, running, or jumping. It can also occur if your form is off or you push yourself too hard without proper recovery. Other common causes include:

  • Overuse: from doing the same movement repeatedly
  • Bad technique: when exercising or playing sports
  • Jumping into intense training: too quickly
  • Not getting enough rest: between workouts or activities

How Can Physiotherapy Help?

If you’re dealing with tendonitis, physiotherapy is one of the best ways to treat it and get you back in the game faster. At Durham Orthopedic & Sports Injury Clinic, we use a variety of techniques to help with recovery:

1. Rest and Ice

First things first you have to give your tendon some time to heal. Rest and ice therapy help reduce swelling and manage pain. Ice your injury for 15-20 minutes a few times a day during the first 48 hours after you notice symptoms.

2. Stretching and Strengthening Exercises

Once the pain starts to calm down, it’s time to focus on rehabilitation. We design custom programs that combine stretching to improve flexibility and strengthening exercises to support the muscles around the tendon. This helps prevent future injuries and speeds up the healing process.

3. Manual Therapy

We also use hands on treatments like manual therapy or myofascial release to help relax tight muscles and improve circulation in the affected area. This can reduce pain and stiffness, helping you recover more quickly.

4. Eccentric Strengthening

This method targets strengthening exercises where you lengthen the tendon while it’s under load. It’s effective for tendonitis and helps the tendon better handle stress.

5. Ultrasound Therapy

Ultrasound therapy uses sound waves to promote healing in the tendon. It helps improve blood flow, which is key to getting that tendon back to normal.

6. Bracing and Support

Sometimes we’ll recommend using braces or supports to take some pressure off the tendon, giving it the stability it needs to heal.

How to Prevent Tendonitis

The best way to deal with tendonitis is to not get it in the first place. Here are a few tips to help you avoid it:

1. Warm-Up and Cool Down

A proper warm-up gets your muscles ready for action, while cooling down helps reduce tightness and keeps your muscles and tendons flexible.

2. Make Sure Your Technique Is On Point

Bad form can lead to injury. Whether you’re lifting weights or running, proper technique is key. If you’re unsure about your form, consider getting a coach or physiotherapist to help you fine tune it.

3. Gradually Increase Your Intensity

Don’t jump into intense training too quickly. Gradually increase your workout intensity so your tendons have time to adjust.

4. Cross-Train

Mix up your routine. Doing different activities reduces the strain on any one tendon and gives it time to recover.

5. Rest and Recover

Rest is crucial. Don’t skip your rest days or skimp on sleep. Giving your body time to recover is one of the best ways to prevent tendonitis.

When Should You Seek Physiotherapy?

If you have persistent pain, swelling, or stiffness in a tendon, it’s best to get treatment sooner rather than later. The earlier you address tendonitis, the easier it is to manage and recover from. At Durham Orthopedic & Sports Injury Clinic, we’re here to help you recover quickly and safely so you can get back to your sport without the risk of long term injury. Contact us today! 

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Top 5 Signs Your Hip Flexor Might Be Injured

If you’re feeling a sharp pain in the front of your hip or struggling with mobility after a workout, you might be dealing with a hip flexor injury. These types of injuries are common among athletes, runners, and even people who sit for long periods. At Durham Orthopedic & Sports Injury Clinic, we see this type of injury more often than you might think and early intervention is key to a full recovery.

So how do you know if your hip flexor is injured? Here are the top 5 signs to watch for.

1. Pain in the Front of the Hip or Groin

A hip flexor injury often presents as sharp, stabbing pain or a deep ache at the front of your hip or in the groin area. The pain might get worse when you lift your knee, walk uphill, or stretch your leg behind you.

 Common in: Runners, cyclists, and people who sit for extended periods.

2. Difficulty Walking, Running, or Climbing Stairs

If walking feels awkward, or you notice tightness and pulling when lifting your leg, your hip flexor might be strained or injured. Climbing stairs, running, or even standing from a seated position can aggravate the injury.

Pro tip: Pain with movement is one of the earliest signs that a muscle imbalance or strain may be developing.

3. Weakness or a “Giving Out” Sensation

Injured hip flexors can cause your leg to feel weak or unstable, especially when lifting your knee or balancing on one leg. You may feel like your hip is about to give out under pressure.

Warning sign: This could indicate a moderate to severe strain, and professional evaluation is recommended.

4. Swelling, Bruising, or Tenderness to the Touch

In some cases, you may notice swelling or bruising around the hip, groin, or upper thigh. The area might also feel warm and tender, especially after activity.

 At Durham Orthopedic Sports & Injury Clinic, we often use manual therapy and targeted modalities to reduce inflammation and accelerate healing.

5. Discomfort After Sitting or Driving

Do you feel stiff or sore after sitting for long periods or driving? Tight hip flexors can become even more aggravated in a seated position, making it harder to move once you stand.

This is especially common for office workers, truck drivers, and anyone with a sedentary lifestyle.

What to Do Next: Early Care = Faster Recovery

If any of these symptoms sound familiar, it’s time to take action. Ignoring hip flexor pain can lead to longer recovery times and increase your risk of re-injury.

At Durham Orthopedic & Sports Injury Clinic, we offer: 

 – In-depth orthopedic assessments
– Custom rehab programs tailored to your activity level
– Advanced therapies like manual therapy, dry needling, and mobility training
– Education and support for injury prevention

Contact the professionals at Durham Orthopedic & Sports Injury Clinic to book your appointment today! 

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How Rainy Weather Affects Joint Pain

Ever notice your joints aching more when it’s about to rain? You’re not alone. Many people with arthritis or past injuries swear they can predict the weather just by how their body feels. But is there actually science behind this, or is it just a long-standing myth? If you struggle with joint pain, you might be wondering why rainy days seem to make things worse. Let’s break it down and go over some ways to keep your joints happy, no matter the weather.

Does Rain Really Affect Joint Pain?

The short answer? Well, sort of….Studies suggest that drops in barometric pressure, combined with increased humidity and cooler temperatures, can impact joint pain. When the air pressure decreases, tissues inside the joints expand slightly, leading to discomfort, stiffness, and even inflammation. This is especially true for people dealing with arthritis, bursitis, or lingering injuries.

Common Myths About Rain and Joint Pain

Myth #1: Rain Causes Arthritis
Rain itself doesn’t cause arthritis, but it can definitely make existing symptoms feel worse. The real issue is the drop in barometric pressure, which can affect the fluid and tissues around your joints.

Myth #2: Everyone Feels More Pain in the Rain
Not necessarily. Some people are more sensitive to weather changes than others. Factors like overall joint health, inflammation levels, and past injuries all play a role in whether or not you feel more pain when it rains.

Myth #3: You Should Avoid Activity in Wet Weather
It might be tempting to curl up on the couch, but movement is key. Gentle stretching, yoga, and low-impact exercises can actually help loosen stiff joints and improve circulation, keeping discomfort at bay.

Tips to Manage Joint Pain on Rainy Days

1. Stay Warm
Cold, damp weather can make joints feel even stiffer. Layer up, use a heating pad, or take a warm bath to keep your muscles and joints relaxed.

2. Keep Moving
Staying active—even if it’s just light stretching or indoor walking—can help maintain flexibility and prevent stiffness.

3. Eat for Joint Health
Anti-inflammatory foods like leafy greens, fatty fish, and nuts can help reduce inflammation naturally. On the flip side, processed foods can make inflammation worse.

4. Choose the Right Footwear
Wet sidewalks and slippery surfaces can increase fall risks. Wear shoes with good support and grip to protect your joints and stay safe.

5. See a Physiotherapist
If weather-related joint pain is affecting your daily life, a physiotherapist can help with targeted exercises, manual therapy, and personalized pain management strategies.

Get Relief from Joint Pain in Durham

At Durham Orthopedic & Sports Injury Clinic, we help people manage joint pain with physiotherapy and massage therapy. Whether it’s arthritis, an old injury, or general stiffness, we’re here to help. Contact us today to book an assessment and start your road to recovery. 

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How Physiotherapy Can Help With Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain, affecting athletes, runners, and individuals who spend long hours on their feet. If left untreated, it can significantly impact mobility and quality of life. At Durham Orthopedic and Sports Injury Clinic, our physiotherapists specialize in treating plantar fasciitis, helping patients recover faster and prevent future flare-ups.

What is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis occurs when the plantar fascia—a thick band of tissue connecting your heel to your toes becomes inflamed. This inflammation often results from excessive strain, improper footwear, or biomechanical issues such as flat feet or high arches.

Common Symptoms:

  • Sharp or stabbing heel pain, especially in the morning or after long periods of rest
  • Pain that worsens after prolonged standing or physical activity
  • Swelling and tenderness around the heel

How Physiotherapy Helps in Plantar Fasciitis Recovery

Physiotherapy plays a crucial role in reducing pain, restoring mobility, and preventing recurrence. At Durham Orthopedic and Sports Injury Clinic, we use evidence-based treatments to accelerate healing.

1. Stretching and Strengthening Exercises

Targeted exercises help improve flexibility and strength in the plantar fascia, Achilles tendon, and surrounding muscles.

  • Calf Stretches: Loosening tight calf muscles reduces strain on the plantar fascia.
  • Toe Stretching: Helps relieve tension in the arch of the foot.
  • Towel Curls & Marble Pickups: Strengthen the intrinsic foot muscles to support proper biomechanics.

2. Manual Therapy and Soft Tissue Release

Hands-on techniques, such as massage therapy and myofascial release, improve circulation and reduce muscle tightness, promoting faster healing.

3. Ultrasound Therapy

This advanced treatment stimulates tissue repair and reduces inflammation, making it an excellent option for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis.

4. Custom Orthotics and Footwear Advice

Wearing proper footwear with adequate arch support and cushioning is essential for recovery. Our physiotherapists can recommend custom orthotics tailored to your foot structure.

5. Taping and Bracing

Kinesiology taping or night splints can provide additional support, helping to alleviate pain and improve foot alignment.

6. Gait Analysis and Biomechanical Assessment

A thorough assessment helps identify any abnormal walking patterns or posture issues contributing to plantar fasciitis. Correcting these imbalances prevents future injuries.

When to Seek Physiotherapy for Plantar Fasciitis

If you’ve been experiencing persistent heel pain that isn’t improving with rest, ice, or over the counter pain relief, it’s time to consult a physiotherapist. Early intervention leads to better outcomes and a quicker return to normal activities.

Book an Appointment at Durham Orthopedic and Sports Injury Clinic

At Durham Orthopedic and Sports Injury Clinic, we provide personalized physiotherapy treatments to help you recover from plantar fasciitis effectively. Contact us today and start your road to recovery!

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How Physiotherapy Can Help You Stay Active & Injury Free

The first day of Spring is here and with warmer weather comes the urge to get outside, be more active, and enjoy sports, gardening, and outdoor workouts. However, transitioning from a winter of reduced activity to an active spring can increase the risk of injuries. At Durham Orthopedic & Sports Injury Clinic in Pickering, our physiotherapists are here to help you stay active, prevent injuries, and recover quickly if discomfort arises.

Common Spring Injuries & How Physiotherapy Helps

1. Running Injuries

Many people take advantage of spring to start running or increase their mileage. Unfortunately, conditions like shin splints, plantar fasciitis, and runner’s knee can develop. Our physiotherapists provide strengthening exercises, and customized treatment plans to keep you pain free.

2. Gardening Related Strains

Yard work and gardening can lead to back pain, knee discomfort, and wrist strain due to prolonged bending, lifting, and repetitive motions. Physiotherapy can improve flexibility, posture, and core strength to prevent these issues.

3. Cycling & Hiking Injuries

Spring is a great time to hit the trails, but cycling and hiking can strain the lower back, knees, and ankles. Our clinic offers mobility exercises and injury prevention techniques to ensure a pain free experience.

4. Spring Sports Injuries

Sports like golf, tennis, and soccer require proper conditioning to avoid strains and sprains. We provide sport specific rehabilitation programs to enhance performance and reduce injury risk.

Tips to Stay Injury-Free This Spring

  • Warm Up & Cool Down: Dynamic stretching before and after activities improves flexibility and reduces stiffness.
  • Gradually Increase Activity Levels: Avoid sudden increases in intensity to prevent overuse injuries.
  • Use Proper Technique: Whether running, gardening, or playing sports, proper form is key.
  • Listen to Your Body: If you experience pain, don’t ignore it, early physiotherapy intervention can prevent long-term issues.

Book an Appointment at Durham Orthopedic & Sports Injury Clinic

If you’re dealing with pain or want to enhance your mobility this spring. Contact the professional physiotherapists at Durham Orthopedic & Sports Injury Clinic, we provide personalized care to help you recover, strengthen, and move better.

Side view mature Caucasian man sitting on living room sofa holding his painful shoulder
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How to Manage Shoulder Arthritis with Physiotherapy

Shoulder arthritis can significantly impact your daily life, making simple tasks like reaching overhead, lifting objects, or even sleeping difficult. If you’re experiencing shoulder pain and stiffness, physiotherapy can be an effective treatment to help manage symptoms, improve mobility, and restore function. At Durham Orthopedic Clinic and Sports Injury Clinic, we offer personalized physiotherapy programs to help you regain movement and reduce discomfort.

What is Shoulder Arthritis?

Shoulder arthritis occurs when the cartilage in the shoulder joint wears down, leading to pain, inflammation, and reduced range of motion. The most common types of shoulder arthritis include:

  • Osteoarthritis (OA) – A degenerative joint disease caused by wear and tear.
  • Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) – An autoimmune condition that affects the joint lining.
  • Post-Traumatic Arthritis – Arthritis developing after an injury or fracture.

Symptoms of Shoulder Arthritis

Common signs of shoulder arthritis include:

  • Persistent pain, especially with movement
  • Stiffness and reduced range of motion
  • Clicking or grinding sounds in the joint
  • Weakness in the arm and shoulder
  • Swelling and tenderness around the joint

How Physiotherapy Helps Manage Shoulder Arthritis

Physiotherapy plays a crucial role in reducing shoulder pain and improving function. At Durham Orthopedic and Sports Injury Clinic, our expert physiotherapists create customized treatment plans to help you:

1. Improve Shoulder Mobility

Gentle range of motion exercises help maintain flexibility and prevent stiffness. Passive stretching techniques can also assist in loosening tight shoulder muscles and joints.


2. Strengthen Shoulder Muscles

Strengthening the muscles around the shoulder, particularly the rotator cuff and scapular muscles, helps support the joint and reduces strain. Our physiotherapists will guide you through safe and effective exercises.

3. Reduce Pain & Inflammation

Physiotherapy use treatments such as manual therapy and  ultrasound therapy and acupuncture.

4. Improve Posture & Joint Alignment

Poor posture can contribute to shoulder arthritis symptoms. Our therapists provide postural correction exercises and ergonomic advice to reduce strain on the shoulder joint.

Best Physiotherapy Exercises for Shoulder Arthritis

Here are some safe and effective exercises commonly recommended for shoulder arthritis:

  1. Pendulum Swings – Helps maintain mobility with gentle circular movements.
  2. Wall Crawls – Strengthens the shoulder muscles and improves range of motion.
  3. External and Internal Rotations – Enhances rotator cuff strength.
  4. Scapular Retractions – Supports better posture and reduces strain on the shoulder.

Our Approach

At Durham Orthopedic Clinic and Sports Injury Clinic, we provide expert physiotherapy services tailored to your unique needs. Our team is dedicated to helping patients in Pickering, Ajax, Whitby, and the Durham Region manage shoulder arthritis effectively with evidence-based treatments.

Book Your Physiotherapy Appointment Today!

If you’re struggling with shoulder arthritis, physiotherapy can help you regain function and improve your quality of life. Contact Durham Orthopedic Clinic today at 905-428-7800 to schedule an appointment with our expert physiotherapists and start your road to recovery today!

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Understanding ACL Injuries: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is one of the key ligaments in the knee that provides stability and control during movement. ACL injuries are common, particularly among athletes involved in high impact sports such as soccer, basketball, and football. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options can help in better managing and preventing this injury.

What Causes an ACL Injury?

ACL injuries typically occur due to sudden stops, rapid changes in direction, incorrect landings from jumps, or direct impact to the knee. Some common risk factors include:

  • Sports Activities. High-impact sports that involve cutting, pivoting, or sudden deceleration increase the risk.
  • Improper Technique.  Poor biomechanics while jumping or running can lead to increased strain on the ACL.
  • Muscle Imbalance.  Weak hamstrings and quadriceps can contribute to knee instability.
  • Gender Differences. Research suggests that female athletes may be at a higher risk due to differences in anatomy and biomechanics.

Signs and Symptoms of an ACL Tear

An ACL injury can present with the following symptoms:

  • A popping sensation in the knee at the time of injury.
  • Immediate pain and swelling, which may worsen within hours.
  • Instability or a feeling that the knee is giving way, especially during movement.
  • Reduced range of motion and difficulty bearing weight on the affected leg.

Diagnosis and Treatment Options

If an ACL injury is suspected, a healthcare provider will perform a physical examination and may recommend imaging tests such as an MRI to confirm the diagnosis.

Non Surgical Treatment

For mild sprains or partial tears, conservative treatments may be effective, including:

  • Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation (RICE) to reduce swelling and pain.
  • Physical Therapy to strengthen surrounding muscles and restore function.
  • Bracing to support the knee and prevent further injury.

Surgical Treatment

In cases of complete ACL tears or for active individuals who require knee stability for sports or daily activities, ACL reconstruction surgery may be recommended. This procedure involves replacing the torn ligament with a graft taken from the patient’s own tissue (autograft) or a donor (allograft). Post-surgical rehabilitation is crucial to regain strength, mobility, and function.

Prevention Strategies

While ACL injuries cannot always be avoided, certain strategies can reduce the risk:

  • Strength Training. Strengthening the quadriceps, hamstrings, and core muscles improves knee stability.
  • Proper Technique.  Learning correct landing and cutting techniques helps in distributing force evenly across the knee.
  • Stretching and Flexibility Exercises. Ensuring proper warm-up and stretching can enhance muscle coordination and reduce strain on the ACL.
  • Wearing Appropriate Footwear.  Using proper shoes with good traction can prevent slips and missteps.

ACL injuries can be challenging, but with early diagnosis, proper treatment, and rehabilitation, individuals can make a full recovery and return to their normal activities. At Durham Orthopedic Clinic and Sports Injury Clinic, our team of physiotherapists provide personalized care and advanced treatment options to help patients regain mobility and strength. If you’ve experienced a knee injury or need expert guidance on ACL prevention and recovery, contact us today for an appointment.