Treatments

Soft tissue injuries are identified by conventional physiotherapy assessment and the scanner is skilfully used to confirm clinical findings of swelling, soft tissue damage and joint capsule pathology. It is used routinely to determine levels of recovery from treatment to treatment, ensuring techniques are effective and that structures injured are healing appropriately.

The ‘real time’ capability of ultrasound allows for dynamic evaluation of joints, muscles and tendons. This is valuable to the physiotherapist and patient as they obtain a visual appreciation of the behaviour of soft tissue structures as they move dynamically.

This particular technique is graded in force of amplitude depending on the severity, irritability and nature of the complaint and is commonly effective when treating the knee, hip, frozen shoulder, twisted ankle, sprained wrist, and fractures to the hand or foot. Other treatments that complement this technique effectively are Myofascial Releases, Muscle Energy Techniques, Fascia Tool Release techniques and Acupuncture.

Following the procedure it is often considered good practice to address the issues that may have contributed to the problem initially. Trauma is commonly the cause, however poor biomechanics or deviated movement patterns are likely to be the main contributing factor to spinal joint dysfunction and pain.

Muscles that present clinically in this way can alter joint positions which, in turn, may cause reduced range of movement, lack of mobility and/or pain. MET is used by applying pressure with the hands at specific points of the muscle itself followed by an active movement made by the patient through a specified range of movement. The results of this technique are often instant and remarkable. Used in conjunction with other modalities and movement dysfunction rehabilitation, this process can correct both acute and chronic pathology with incredible effect.

Some clinicians have claimed it does nothing of the sort, however George knows many players he has applied it to that claim to feeling much more confident wearing it around an injury than not. On the course he gained a thorough understanding of how, why and where to apply tape as an adjunct to treatment of injury. Clinically, it has been a valuable tool in the treatment process of muscle strains and Movement Dysfunction Rehabilitation.

Muscles that present clinically in this way can alter joint positions which, in turn, may cause reduced range of movement, lack of mobility and/or pain. MET is used by applying pressure with the hands at specific points of the muscle itself followed by an active movement made by the patient through a specified range of movement. The results of this technique are often instant and remarkable. Used in conjunction with other modalities and movement dysfunction rehabilitation, this process can correct both acute and chronic pathology with incredible effect.

He uses it to recognise movement patterns that are key to normalising function and to identify when the patterns that cause functional limitations and asymmetries are visible. Once abnormal patterns have been identified they are addressed with corrective exercises to restore movement patterns. The advantage of video feedback is that it allows George to highlight to the patient exactly where their problems lie and how they can correct them.

Trigger points are most commonly known as ‘knots’ in the muscle but are actually taut bands of muscle fibres in skeletal muscle that feel tight when touched. Acupuncture is widely used in Sports Medicine to reduce tone in skeletal muscles and to normalise high tone which in turn causes muscle pain. Electro- Acupuncture is also used by some Sports Physicians when treating trigger points or ‘knots’. Small metal clips are attached to the needles after being placed in specific points recognised by the Clinician. An electric current is then passed through the metal needles. It is thought that the current increases the effectiveness of the treatment for this condition.

The Pilates method takes the body through exercises beginning on a mat and progresses to a mechanical reformer. The aim of the process is to create synergy between muscles that protect the spine and muscles that produce movement to the rest of the body. By identifying and correcting dysfunction between postural and mobilising muscles, pain in the lower back, neck, ribs, shoulders, hips, knees and ankles is treated effectively. The focus of the process is on stretching, co-ordination, strengthening, breathing and general body awareness throughout activities of daily living.

Pilates is not only utilised in the clinic to treat injury, but also as a method of injury prevention and to promote general well-being for healthy individuals and as a training aid with athletes to improve performance levels.

George believes working with clients on a one-to-one basis in a calm, relaxed environment has benefited each patient far more than group sessions and therefore only takes sessions in this way at his practice.

Maintenance massage: regular massage can be vital to improve or maintain sports performance and tissue recovery for those who compete on a regular basis with the primary aim of maintaining and restoring muscle flexibility and strength.

Pre-event massage: this is specific to the athlete and the activity levels expected. The primary aim is to target muscles and fascia by stimulating the neuromuscular systems with the use of an invigorating medium pressured technique.

Post-event massage: differs from techniques used pre-event with the aim being to reduce the build up of metabolites in soft tissues and aid the body’s natural healing process, reducing recovery time and the risk of injury.

Rebound Cartilage

The Rebound Cartilage is a protective functional solution designed to support regeneration of the knee cartilage from diagnosis through to the post-surgical healing phase. It assists in the compliance of the rehabilitation protocol for cartilage repair procedures such as Microfracture.

Unloader One
In the field of osteoarthritis knee bracing for many years, the Unloader One has been redesigned to provide numerous benefits to both the clinician and patient, specifically improve ease of use, improved comfort.

As ever, the brace combines a streamlined, flexible single upright with Dual Dynamic Force Straps to generate a highly effective unloading force for arthritis to the inside or outside of the knee joint. A ratcheting Dynamic Force Control System empowers the patient to manage the therapeutic effects of the brace whilst liners coated with Ossur Sensil Silcone Technology prevents slipping.

CTi
The constant development and improvement of this classic design is why CTI remains the top choice of athletes and leading clinical specialists around the world.

The CTi Custom is generally used for high levels of support where comfort and strength are not compromised by weight and bulkiness. It can also offer greater advantages for accurate fitting where leg shape abnormalities present a problem. Used for a variety of activities including running, football, skiing, triathlon, cycling, orienteering and many more.