Uncategorized

Different Types of Physiotherapy

Physiotherapy, also known as physical therapy, is a healthcare profession that focuses on the assessment, treatment, and prevention of physical dysfunction and pain. There are several different types of physiotherapy, including:

  1. Orthopedic physiotherapy: This type of physiotherapy focuses on the treatment of musculoskeletal injuries, including fractures, sprains, strains, and joint injuries.
  2. Neurological physiotherapy: Neurological physiotherapy focuses on the rehabilitation of patients with neurological conditions such as stroke, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, and spinal cord injuries.
  3. Cardiovascular and pulmonary physiotherapy: This type of physiotherapy is designed to help patients recover from heart and lung conditions, such as heart attacks, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and asthma.
  4. Pediatric physiotherapy: Pediatric physiotherapy is designed to help children with physical disabilities, developmental delays, and other conditions that affect their physical abilities.
  5. Geriatric physiotherapy: Geriatric physiotherapy is designed to help elderly patients recover from injuries and age-related physical changes, such as osteoporosis, arthritis, and balance problems.
  6. Sports physiotherapy: This type of physiotherapy is focused on the treatment of sports-related injuries, including sprains, strains, and joint injuries. Sports physiotherapy may also involve injury prevention and performance enhancement.
  7. Women’s health physiotherapy: Women’s health physiotherapy is focused on the treatment of conditions that affect women, such as pelvic pain, incontinence, and postpartum recovery.

There are several different types of physiotherapy that focus on the treatment of specific conditions or populations. A physiotherapist will use their knowledge and expertise to design a treatment plan that is tailored to each patient’s individual needs.

If you require physiotherapy for any sports or orthopedic injury, contact the Durham Orthopedic and Sports Injury Clinic at 905-428-7800 and get on the road to a quick recovery.

two lacrosse sticks
Uncategorized

Common Lacrosse Injuries

Lacrosse is a high-intensity sport that requires a lot of physical effort, which can lead to injuries. Some of the common lacrosse injuries that players may experience include:

  1. Ankle sprains: Ankle sprains are one of the most common lacrosse injuries. They occur when the ankle is twisted or turned in an awkward position, causing damage to the ligaments. To prevent ankle sprains, players should wear supportive shoes with good ankle support and perform ankle strengthening exercises.
  2. Knee injuries: Knee injuries can range from minor to severe and can include ligament sprains, cartilage damage, and meniscus tears. Players can prevent knee injuries by wearing knee pads and performing strengthening exercises to improve the stability of the knee joint.
  3. Concussions: Concussions are a serious head injury that can occur when a player is hit in the head or experiences a sudden jolt or impact. Players can prevent concussions by wearing a properly fitted helmet and avoiding dangerous plays.
  4. Shoulder injuries: Shoulder injuries are common in lacrosse due to the repetitive overhead motion required in throwing and catching. Players can prevent shoulder injuries by performing exercises to strengthen the muscles around the shoulder joint and wearing shoulder pads.
  5. Hand and finger injuries: Hand and finger injuries can occur when a player is hit with the ball or stick. To prevent these injuries, players should wear gloves with good padding and grip and should practice proper stick-handling techniques.

Lacrosse is a fun and exciting sport, but it can also be physically demanding and lead to injuries. Players can reduce their risk of injury by wearing appropriate protective gear, performing strengthening exercises, and practicing safe techniques.

If you have been injured and are looking to start physiotherapy. Contact the professionals at the Durham Orthopedic Clinic at 905-428-7800 and start your road to recovery today! 

Uncategorized

What is Chronic Pain

Chronic pain is defined by pain that lasts for 3 months or longer. It often leads to physical decline, decrease in functional ability to perform daily tasks and often, depression and anxiety.  

Chronic pain can be there all the time or may come and go. It can happen anywhere in the body and continues long after your tissues have recovered from an injury. It can become a disease in itself, of the central nervous system. 

Physiotherapy can play an important role in managing chronic pain through:

Patient Education

By helping in the understanding of chronic pain, physiotherapy can help clients use pain management strategies to manage their pain and help educate on pain relieving techniques.

Exercise Therapy

Often, due to the severity of the pain, clients with chronic pain avoid exercise due to fear of aggravating their symptoms. Physiotherapy can help people with chronic pain start an exercise program with exercises that cause minimal increase in their symptoms. This will help them become mobile again and improve their function with activities of daily living.

Manual Therapy and Soft Tissue Treatment 

Due to reduced movement, joints and muscles in a person with chronic pain will become stiff, irritable and tight. The physiotherapist will use manual therapy techniques and soft tissue mobilization techniques to increase movement and decrease pain. 

Posture Re-education

A physiotherapist will help improve abnormal movement patterns and postures that will aggravate pain.  

Acupuncture

Many studies have found that acupuncture is effective in helping treat chronic pain especially in the neck, back and with headaches. By settling down the pain, the client with chronic pain is better able to work on increasing their strength and flexibility with the prescribed exercises and is also better able to tolerate the treatments.

By using a combination of the above treatments, clients are better able to start controlling their pain and resume normal activities with physiotherapy. Individuals can be empowered to gain back control of their life.

If you have chronic pain, give Durham Orthopedic & Sports Injury Clinic a call at 905-428-7800 and start your road to recovery. 

Uncategorized

Benefits of Massage Therapy

If you are new to Massage Therapy, you may think of its’ relaxing effects after a stress filled day, a shoulder rub when you have a headache, having your feet rubbed after prolonged standing or walking, or seeing athletes receiving a massage from trainers.  You may not realize the many other beneficial effects of Massage Therapy.

These include:

1. Reducing musculature pain

2. Improved mobility

3. Aids in recovery after surgery or injury

4. Helps improve sleep

5. Reduces stress and anxiety

6. Helps reduce discomfort and pain associated with everyday occupational stresses.

Massage therapy services are not covered by OHIP, however, many extended health benefit plans cover parts or all of the services provided by an RMT.  Massage therapy treatments may also be reimbursed by automobile insurance companies if injuries are due to a motor vehicle accident.  In the case of workplace injuries, WSIB will occasionally cover RMT treatments for its clients.

If you are seeking Massage Therapy, call the Durham Orthopedic & Sports Injury Clinic to see one of our knowledgeable professionals at 905-428-7800 to help get you on the road to recovery.

Call Us Today

Person getting physiotherapy
Uncategorized

Benefits of Physiotherapy

Physiotherapy, also known as physical therapy, is a healthcare profession that focuses on the assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and management of physical impairments, disabilities, and pain. 

Physiotherapy can provide several benefits for injury recovery, including:

  1. Pain relief: Physiotherapy can help to reduce pain and discomfort caused by an injury. Techniques such as myofascial release,  joint mobilization, and correction of muscle imbalances can help to reduce pain and promote healing.
  2. Improved mobility: Physiotherapy can help to improve the range of motion and flexibility of the affected area, which is essential for injury recovery. This can be achieved through strengthening and stretching exercises and manual therapy techniques.
  3. Strengthening: Physiotherapy can help to improve the strength of the affected area, which is important for injury recovery and preventing future injury. This can be achieved through specific exercises and resistance training.
  4. Improved healing: Physiotherapy can help to improve circulation and reduce swelling, which can speed up the healing process.
  5. Prevention of complications: Physiotherapy can help to reduce the risk of developing complications associated with injury, such as chronic pain and limited mobility.
  6. Return to normal activity: Physiotherapy can help to get you back to your normal activities as soon as possible, by improving function, reducing pain, and increasing mobility.

It is important to seek professional help from a physiotherapist to design a rehabilitation program tailored to your specific needs and injury.

If you have been injured and are looking to start physiotherapy. Contact the professionals at the Durham Orthopedic Clinic at 905-428-7800 and start your road to recovery today! 

Uncategorized

Workout Tips for Beginners

With the new year started, many people have decided it’s time to start a new workout routine. Some important exercise tips for beginners include:

  1. Start with a proper warm-up: A proper warm-up is essential to prepare your body for the workout and to prevent injury. A good warm-up can include light cardio, such as jogging in place or fast walking, and dynamic stretching exercises.
  2. Set realistic goals: Setting realistic and attainable goals will help you stay motivated and on track. Start with small, achievable goals and work your way up to more challenging ones.
  3. Choose exercises that you enjoy: The key to a successful workout routine is to choose exercises that you enjoy. This will make it easier to stick to your routine and to achieve your goals.
  4. Incorporate a variety of exercises: To achieve overall fitness, it’s important to incorporate a variety of exercises that target different muscle groups and improve different aspects of fitness.
  5. Start with low-impact exercises: If you’re new to exercising, it’s best to start with low-impact exercises that are easy on the joints. Examples include walking, cycling, swimming or yoga.
  6. Focus on proper form: Proper form is important to avoid injury and to get the most out of your workout. Make sure to learn the correct form for each exercise before you start.
  7. Be consistent: Consistency is key when it comes to seeing results. Try to work out at least 3 times a week, and gradually increase the frequency and intensity of your workouts as you become more comfortable.
  8. Get enough rest and recovery: While it’s important to stay active and consistent, it’s also important to give your body enough rest and recovery time. Make sure to take rest days and listen to your body when it needs to rest.

If you have experienced a work out  injury or any other sports injury, call us at the Durham Orthopedic and Sports Injury Clinic, 905-428-7800, to have one of our physiotherapists get you on the path to recovery.

Uncategorized

Most Common Hockey Injuries

Hockey is a high-impact sport that can lead to a variety of injuries. Some of the most common injuries that occur in hockey players include:

Knee Sprain/ Ligament tears

Injury to the medial collateral ligament(MCL) is a common knee injury with hockey. Anterior Cruciate Ligament(ACL) strain and meniscus tears are less common than other sports but do still occur with hockey.

Groin Sprain

Groin injuries are one of the top two most common hockey injuries. They can occur with overstriding or from a sudden forceful start or stop while skating.

Shoulder Separation/Dislocation

Injuries to the AC joint and clavicle( collar bone) are common shoulder injuries with hockey due to the frequent checking and hitting against boards. Broken collar bones and shoulder separations are often the result of direct contact with other players, the ice or the boards.

Ankle Sprains

Ankle sprains can occur with directional changes while skating. Advancements in skate design have reduced the number of ankle injuries with hockey.

Concussions

Concussions are one of the most common hockey injuries suffered by hockey players and occur when the players strike another player or the ice with their head. Most concussions do not involve loss of consciousness but common symptoms may be dizziness, inability to focus, headaches and emotional irritability. 

Dental injuries and Facial Lacerations

Many feel the most common hockey injury is lacerations to the head and face.Although mandatory helmets and face masks help protect the player, there are still many opportunities to be hit in the face by a puck, a hockey stick or another player.

It is important for hockey players to wear proper protective gear, including helmets, mouthguard, and padding, in order to reduce their risk of injury. Additionally, players should warm up properly before games and practices and follow proper training and conditioning protocols to help prevent injuries.

If you have experienced a hockey injury or any other sports injury, call us at the Durham Orthopedic and Sports Injury Clinic, 905-428-7800, to have one of our physiotherapists get you on the path to recovery.

Uncategorized

Exercising in the Cold

Exercising in the cold can be an enjoyable and refreshing experience, but it is important to take certain precautions to stay safe and comfortable. 

  1. Dress appropriately.  Wear layers of clothing to help regulate your body temperature and protect yourself from the cold. Choose materials that are moisture-wicking and breathable to help keep you dry and comfortable.
  2. Warm up properly. It is important to warm up your muscles before exercising in the cold to help prevent injury. Start with some light stretches and gradually increase your intensity as you get warmer.
  3. Protect your hands and feet.  These areas of your body are most susceptible to the cold, so it is important to wear gloves and warm socks to protect them.
  4. Stay hydrated. It is easy to become dehydrated in the cold, so it is important to drink plenty of fluids before and after your workout.
  5. Pay attention to the weather. Before you head out for your workout, check the weather forecast and plan your route accordingly. Avoid exercising in extreme cold or hazardous conditions, such as blizzards or icy roads.
  6. Listen to your body. If you start to feel cold or uncomfortable, it is important to listen to your body and take a break if necessary. It is better to take a brief break and warm up than to push yourself too hard and risk injury.

If you are in need of physiotherapy call the Durham Orthopedic and Sports Injury Clinic to see one of our knowledgeable professionals at 905-428-7800 to get you on the road to recovery.

Person snowboarding
Uncategorized

Skiing and Snowboarding Injuries

With the cold weather here and snowfall on the horizon, people coast to coast are getting ready to partake in their favourite winter activities. Skiing and snowboarding, although a lot of fun, are both high-impact sports that can put a lot of stress on the joints, particularly the knees. 

Knee injuries can occur when the knee is twisted or turned awkwardly, or when a snowboarder falls and lands on their knee. These types of injuries can be very painful and can take a long time to heal, so, it’s important for snowboarders to take steps to protect their knees.

To reduce the risk of knee injuries, snowboarders should warm up before hitting the slopes. This can help to loosen the muscles and prepare the body for the physical demands of snowboarding. Strengthening exercises such as squats, jumping squats, lunges and jumping lunges help with strengthening the muscles around the knee and help decrease the incidence of injury.  Wearing protective gear, such as knee pads, can also help to cushion the knee and reduce the impact of a fall.

Another common snowboarding injury is a wrist injury. These injuries can occur when a snowboarder falls and tries to break their fall with their hands. The impact of the fall can cause the wrist to twist or turn awkwardly, leading to a sprain or a fracture.

To reduce the risk of wrist injuries, snowboarders should wear wrist guards. These devices are designed to protect the wrist and reduce the impact of a fall. Wrist guards are relatively inexpensive and can be easily purchased at most sporting goods stores.

In addition to knee and wrist injuries, snowboarders should also be aware of the potential for head injuries. Snowboarding can be a high-speed sport, and falls can be very dangerous if a snowboarder hits their head. To protect against head injuries, snowboarders should always wear a helmet.

Overall, snowboarding can be a lot of fun, but it’s important for snowboarders to take steps to protect themselves and reduce the risk of injuries. By warming up properly,strengthening their leg muscles, wearing protective gear, and being aware of their own limitations, snowboarders can enjoy the sport safely.

If you are in need of physiotherapy call the Durham Orthopedic and Sports Injury Clinic to see one of our knowledgeable professionals at 905-428-7800 to get you on the road to recovery.

Uncategorized

How to Stay Motivated During the Winter Months

With the clocks turned back and the colder weather settling in it can be hard to keep up with our exercise and workout routines. Here are some ways to make sure you stay motivated this winter. 

Create Goals

Creating goals is one of the easiest ways we can keep ourselves motivated, especially during the colder darker months of the year. The best way to set goals for yourself is using the SMART technique. By using the SMART technique you can easily track and mark your goals and progress.

Specific
Measurable 
Attainable 
Relevant
Time bound

Join a Group Workout or Exercise Program 

Joining a sports team, exercise group or workout group is a great way to keep yourself motivated and moving during the winter. Group exercises can help you find support within a community of like minded individuals. It is easier to lean on a person for support when we have common interests and like minded goals. 

It is also a great way to hold yourself accountable. It is very easy to say “I’ll exercise tomorrow” when you are working out or exercising by yourself. When you are in a group exercise class or a team there are people depending on us to show up. 

Exercise Early

Starting your morning with your workout or exercise routine is a great way to stay motivated in the winter months. With the sun setting so early in the day, it can be hard to exercise after work. Setting an alarm to get an early start in the day is a great way to boost your mood, increase your productivity and stay healthy. 

Maximize Sunlight 

This ties into exercising early. It is no secret that our bodies need sunlight and vitamin d. Sunlight helps our bodies;

  • Improve sleep
  • Fight Depression
  • Reduce Stress 
  • Regulate Immune System 

 Celebrate Victories 

Celebrating Victories no matter how big or small is also a great way to help us stay motivated, whether you have just started an exercise or workout regime or have been working at one for a while. Studies have shown that celebrating your victories can help reduce stress, help you have a more optimistic lookout and help you be less stressed. 

If you are in need of physiotherapy for a neck injury, call the Durham Orthopedic and Sports Injury Clinic to see one of our knowledgeable professionals at 905-428-7800 to get you on the road to recovery.

Call Us Today