Stretching and exercising is a great way to get the body moving again although when in pain it can cause some unwanted aches and pains!
There is no right or wrong when it comes to mobilising joints when they are stiff but when an acute condition arises rest is usually best!
Stretching when in pain can actually hinder recovery and strain the muscles associated with the issue at hand! The goal when stretching is to help prevent things from getting tight to begin with although when there is a muscle strain pulling it into lengthened positions can damage the muscle.
Exercise on the otherhand can be great when done for mobility only during acute pain. Usually walking or swimming can help mobilise areas of concern given muscles the ability to function without them getting weak and tight throughout the recovery process. Exercise in strenuous matters should be limited as compressive forces or jolting exercises can cause damage to the area of concern.
If you are currently struggling to move and and unable to walk it is probably best to see a professional before engaging in any physical types of activity especially if you are immobile.
The goal with both exercise and stretching when in pain is to comfortably move areas that are in pain without causing more discomfort. There are many variations and exercises to do depending on the condition and this can be tailored into a rehab plan when you see one of our healthcare professionals.
If you are currently suffering from any aches or pains our team of chiropractors and Remedial Massage Therapists are experienced in musculoskeletal injuries and have the ability to point you in the right direction with exercise and stretching activities!
For more on what to expect on your first chiropractic visit or to find out more about our team of chiropractors at our Broadmeadows, Westmeadows or Fawkner Chiropractic locations you can click on the links provided. You can always contact us or book online @ https://themelbournechiropractor.com.au/book-now
Pains and weakness on the outside of your elbow? You may be suffering from Tennis elbow. Tennis elbow is found commonly in individuals who use repeated arm and wrist movements such as baristas, painters, bar tenders, office workers and racquet sports players.
Tennis elbow is an overuse injury caused by repetitive strain of the muscles controlling backward wrist and finger movements. This repeated strain causes degeneration of the tendon and subsequent pain.
Tennis elbow has long been known as ‘Lateral Epicondylitis’. However this indicates inflammation of the tendon. Studies now indicate that it is not an inflammatory condition but a degenerative one.
Symptoms Include!
Pain localised to the outside of the Elbow (especially on the bone).
Tennis elbow affects approximately 1-3 % of people every year. Although it can affect anyone, people over 40 are most at risk. Funnily enough tennis players only make up only 5-10% of the patient population despite the name
If left untreated, it can take between 6 months and 2 years to get better. In some cases it may not get better without the need of physical therapy or surgery
Here are some exercises that may help speed up your recovery of tennis elbow
Eccentric Wrist Extension
Eccentric Supination
Soft tissue Muscle Mobilisation
Forearm Extensor Stretch
Remember to consult a health care professional before commencing these exercises
Plantar fasciitis is a common foot complaint that affects a persons heel. Symptoms involve a stabbing pain/stiffness at the heel or sole of the foot. Pain is generally worse first thing in the morning and after exercise but not during it. Pain can also be triggered by long periods of standing or getting up from long periods of sitting
Plantar fasciitis is a condition in which the plantar fascia is affected. The plantar fascia is a connective tissue that runs under the foot and serves the purpose of supporting the arch and acting as a shock absorber to weight bearing activities
Plantar fasciitis occurs due to overload on the tissue, leading to degeneration and subsequent pain. 
Those at greatest risk are individuals over the age of 40, athletic individuals [particularly runners], obese/overweight individuals and those with structural foot issues [flat feet/high arches’]
Treatment involves rest, ice, load management, medications and physical therapy. Physical therapy will primarily look at strengthening up the intrinsic and extrinsic muscles of the feet and lower leg. Insoles may also help however surgery is rarely required and often a last resort
Here are some exercises that may help speed up your recovery process
