in Email Newsletters, Improve, Sports psychology, Tools and technology
In a recent article on the language of pain, physio Karen Litzy reviews how to speak to athletes about their pain. However, how good are physios in understanding a particular athlete’s pain perception and the factors that contribute to it? In today’s newsletter, we begin a series looking at the complex factors that surround pain,... MORE
in Acute injuries, Improve, Prevent
Andrew Hamilton looks at what the scientific research has to say regarding snow sports injury and injury prevention. Skiing and (increasingly) snowboarding are becoming mass-participation sports, enjoyed by participants of all ages and abilities. For example, in North America alone, there are more than 78 million annual visits to ski areas by skiers and snowboarders of... MORE
in Email Newsletters, Improve, Knee injuries, Tools and technology
As Karen Litzy explains in her recent article, pain is a complex phenomenon. For a time, it was considered the fourth vital sign. However, it’s an unreliable symptom. Unlike blood pressure or pulse, pain is subjective. It’s expression and perception differs among genders, cultures, socioeconomic status, race, current emotions, and just about every other aspect... MORE
in Improve, Sports psychology
Pain and sport often go hand in hand. Physio Karen Litzy explains the best way to communicate with athletes about their pain experience. Athletes are told to push through the pain, grin and bear, suck it up, or take one for the team. There are times when this might be appropriate, but for the most... MORE
in Email Newsletters, Power development, Strength
Running injuries to the knees and ankles often occur as a result of gluteal weakness. Without stability at the pelvis, the lower body bears the brunt of the forces of running in ways they weren’t designed to do. Therefore, strengthening the gluts is usually a priority for injured runners. Which exercises are the best to... MORE
in Prevent, Tools and technology
With the competitive season looming, Andrew Hamilton examines the current best thinking on vaccination for athletes, and makes recommendations for sports clinicians. Without doubt, vaccination is one of the greatest triumphs of modern medicine. Many serious diseases that used to routinely maim or kill large numbers of people are no longer a threat. More than that,... MORE
in Email Newsletters, Improve, Musculoskeletal injuries
In the second part of our series on the aging runner, we look at running-related injuries and how to treat them. Masters runners report more injuries, more often, than younger runners(1). These aches and pains are likely to occur in the muscles and tendons of the posterior chain – hamstrings, plantar flexors, and Achilles... MORE
in Improve, Nutrition, Tools and technology
When pain and injury strike, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are the ‘go to’ medication for athletes. But given the potential downsides of NSAIDs, are there alternatives? Andrew Hamilton looks at recent research on natural plant compounds that may be able to combat inflammation, accelerate recovery and reduce stiffness. The problem with NSAIDs Regardless of the cause... MORE
in Other, Tools and technology
Kay Robinson uses her extensive experience to provide an insight into the challenges and requirements of travelling with a high-performance team, and provides practical strategies to maximize performance outcomes. There are many demands, challenges, and amazing opportunities that come as a traveling physiotherapist, whether you are heading to the Olympics or travelling with a youth team on their... MORE
in Email Newsletters, Improve
The New Year often brings resolutions to be more active. Runners who gather renewed resolve to hit the trail may register for an upcoming race to inspire their training. Statistics show that the age of those participating in races is increasing dramatically. From 1980 – 2000, the New York City Marathon showed an almost 200%... MORE