PHYSIOMOTIVEInjuries we treat
- Ankle sprains and recurring ankle instability
- Muscle strains in the hamstring, calf, groin or quadriceps
- Knee problems such as runner's knee, ligament sprains and meniscus injuries (see knee pain)
- Tendon overload in the Achilles, patellar tendon, elbow or shoulder
- Shoulder pain from throwing, swimming or lifting
- Shin splints, stress-type pain and other overuse injuries from running
- Back pain after lifting or twisting in sport
What to do in the first few days
Protect the injury and avoid pushing through sharp pain, but do not stay completely still either. Gentle movement within comfort helps swelling settle and keeps the joint from stiffening. If you cannot put weight on the leg, the joint looks out of shape, or swelling came on very fast, get it checked before you load it again.
How our rehab works
Rehab is built in stages, and you move to the next stage when your body is ready rather than on a fixed date.
- Settle it: ease pain and swelling and win back range of movement
- Rebuild it: restore strength, balance and control of the injured area and the hips and core that support it
- Load it: add running, jumping, change of direction or throwing in graded steps
- Return to sport: go back when strength, movement quality and confidence are where they need to be
Along the way we use hands-on techniques, dry needling, cupping and kinesio taping where they suit your case, always alongside exercise.
Why rushing back backfires
Pain often fades before the tissue has regained its strength. Going back to full training at that point is a common reason for re-injury. We check the injured side against the other for strength and control, so that your return is based on what the body can do and not only on how it feels.
Keeping injuries away
Many sports injuries come from a sudden jump in training load, poor strength in the hips and trunk, or too little recovery. We give you a short, sport-specific plan covering warm-up, strength work and how to build up training safely.
When to see a doctor first
Physiotherapy is not right for every problem. Get medical attention promptly if you have any of these:
- You cannot take weight on the limb, or the joint looks deformed after a fall or collision
- A "pop" at the time of injury followed by quick swelling or a joint that gives way or locks
- Numbness, pins and needles or a cold, pale limb
- Calf pain, swelling or warmth, especially after a long journey or surgery
- A head injury with headache, vomiting, confusion or drowsiness
Frequently asked questions
Should I rest or keep moving after a sports injury?
Protect it for the first few days and avoid sharp pain, but keep gently moving what you can. Complete rest for long periods tends to slow recovery.
How long before I can play again?
It depends on the tissue and the severity. A mild sprain may take a few weeks, while ligament and tendon injuries can take months. We use strength, movement and confidence checks to judge readiness.
Do you help after ACL or other sports surgery?
Yes, once your surgeon allows rehabilitation. We follow your surgeon's protocol. Please bring the discharge summary and any written instructions.
Do I need a scan?
Not always. A physical assessment comes first. Imaging is advised when there are warning signs or when recovery is not going as expected. Bring any reports you already have.
Can you tape my joint for a match?
Kinesio taping can add comfort and movement feedback for some people. It supports rehab but does not replace strength and control work, and we will tell you if it suits your injury.