Month: April 2025

CALCIFIC TENDINOPATHY OF THE SHOULDER

Posted on by Dr Dharam

Introduction

Calcific tendinopathy of the shoulder is a painful condition characterized by calcium deposits within the rotator cuff tendons, most commonly affecting the supraspinatus tendon. Our specialty at Elite Physiotherapy & Sports Injury Centre is offering thorough, scientifically supported physiotherapy treatments that are customized to meet the needs of each patient. ​

Causes and Mechanism of Injury

Although the precise etiology of calcific tendinopathy is still unknown, several elements are involved in its development:​

  • Degenerative Changes: Tendons may degenerate as a result of age-related wear and tear, increasing their vulnerability to calcium deposition.​
  • Repetitive Overuse: Overhead sports and jobs that require a lot of shoulder motions can make people more susceptible.​
  • Reduced Blood Supply: Healing may be impeded and calcification may be encouraged by decreased blood supply to the tendons.​
  • Metabolic Disorders: A higher frequency of calcific tendinopathy has been linked to conditions such as diabetes and thyroid issues.

The condition progresses through three stages:​

  1. Formative Phase: The tendon starts to accumulate calcium deposits.​
  2. Resting Phase: There may not be many symptoms and the deposits stay steady.​
  3. Resorptive Phase: Inflammation and severe pain result from the body’s attempt to reabsorb the calcium.​

Clinical Features

Patients with calcific tendinopathy often present with:​

  • Shoulder Pain: Usually restricted to the side or front of the shoulder, this pain gets worse as you move.​
  • Reduced Range of Motion: Having trouble raising the arm, particularly above the head.​
  • Night Pain: Pain that disrupts sleep, especially when lying on the affected side, may be a sign of an underlying issue.​
  • Muscle Weakness: Pain and inactivity cause the shoulder muscles to lose strength.​

Diagnostic Approach at Elite Physiotherapy

At Elite Physiotherapy & Sports Injury Centre, we employ a thorough assessment protocol:​

  • Detailed History and Physical Examination: Understanding the onset, course, and nature of symptoms.​
  • Functional Assessment: Functional assessment involves evaluating shoulder strength, movement patterns, and functional limitations.​
  • Special Physiotherapy Tests: Clinicians use specific tests to distinguish rotator cuff involvement from other shoulder disorders.​
  • Imaging Referrals: In order to verify the existence and magnitude of calcific deposits, we occasionally work with imaging centers to arrange for ultrasound or MRI.​

Comprehensive Physiotherapy Management

We design our physiotherapy interventions to alleviate pain, restore function, and prevent recurrence:​

Manual Therapy

Hands-on techniques to improve joint mobility, reduce muscle tension, and enhance circulation in the affected area.​

Therapeutic Exercises

Customized exercise programs focusing on:​

  • Range of Motion: Gentle stretching to improve flexibility.​
  • Strengthening: Targeted exercises for the rotator cuff and scapular stabilizers.​
  • Neuromuscular Control: Enhancing coordination and movement patterns.​

High-End Modalities

We incorporate advanced technologies to optimize healing:​

  • Shock Wave Therapy: Non-invasive treatment that promotes reabsorption of calcium deposits and reduces pain.​
  • Capacitive Resistive Electric Transfer (CRET) Therapy: Enhances tissue healing through deep thermal effects.​
  • Super Inductive System: Utilizes high-intensity electromagnetic fields to stimulate tissue repair and pain relief.​
  • High-Intensity Class 4 Laser Therapy: Accelerates cellular regeneration and reduces inflammation.​
  • Hydrotherapy: Water-based exercises that minimize joint stress while improving mobility and strength.​
  • Cryotherapy: Application of cold therapy to reduce acute inflammation and pain.​

We select each modality based on individual assessment to ensure safety and effectiveness.​

Personalized Care at Elite Physiotherapy

Our approach is patient-centric, emphasizing:​

  • Individualized Treatment Plans: Tailored to the specific needs and goals of each patient.​
  • Education and Empowerment: Providing knowledge about the condition and self-management strategies.​
  • Ongoing Support: Regular follow-ups to monitor progress and adjust treatment as needed.​

By integrating advanced physiotherapy techniques with personalized care, we aim to achieve optimal outcomes for our patients.​

Conclusion

Shoulder calcific tendinopathy can have a major effect on day-to-day functioning and quality of life. Our thorough evaluation and state-of-the-art treatment methods at Elite Physiotherapy & Sports Injury Centre provide efficient ways to manage this illness. For a customized rehabilitation program, we encourage you to speak with our knowledgeable staff if you’re dealing with shoulder pain or dysfunction. ​

Frozen Shoulder | Adhesive Capsulitis

Posted on by Dr Dharam

Introduction

Frozen shoulder, also known as Adhesive capsulitis, is a debilitating condition that causes pain and stiffness in the shoulder joint. At Elite Physiotherapy and Sports Injury Centre, our specialty is delivering individualized, evidence-based physiotherapy treatments to restore mobility and reduce discomfort related to this illness. ​

Causes and Mechanisms

The thickening and tightening of the connective tissue around the shoulder joint, which limits movement, is usually the cause of frozen shoulder. Although the precise explanation is yet unknown, several factors could be involved:​

  • Prolonged immobilization: After an injury or surgery.​
  • Systemic conditions: These include heart disease, diabetes, and thyroid issues.​
  • Gender and age: More prevalent among people between 40 and 60, especially women.​

Clinical Features

Symptoms typically appear gradually in patients and continue through three stages:​

  1. Freezing Stage: Limited range of motion due to chronic pain that gets worse with movement.​
  2. Frozen Stage: Although there may be less pain, the shoulder stiffens and becomes extremely limited in movement.​
  3. Thawing Stage: Progressive increase in mobility.​

Common signs and symptoms include:​

  • Dull or aching pain in the shoulder and upper arm.​
  • Difficulty doing ordinary tasks like reaching overhead or dressing.​
  • Soreness in the shoulders that interferes with sleep.​

Diagnosis at Elite Physiotherapy

At Elite Physiotherapy, our thorough evaluation consists of:​

  • Comprehensive medical history: To determine possible causes.​
  • Physical examination: Measuring range of motion, both active and passive.​
  • Specialized tests: To assess shoulder mobility and pinpoint particular limits, use the Apley Scratch Test, for example.​

These assessments allow us to create a customized treatment program that meets each patient’s particular requirements.

Physiotherapy Management at Elite Physiotherapy

Our strategy combines manual therapy, focused exercises, and cutting-edge modalities to restore function and lessen pain.​

Manual Therapy

Our skilled physiotherapists use the following methods to ease muscle tension and increase joint mobility:​

  • Joint mobilizations to enhance range of motion.​
  • Soft tissue massage to alleviate muscle tightness.​

Therapeutic Exercises

The purpose of personalized fitness regimens is to:

  • Boost your strength and flexibility.​
  • Increase the stability of your shoulders.​
  • Encourage the functional motions required for day-to-day tasks.​

Exercises are gradually modified to fit the patient’s tolerance and degree of recuperation.​

Postural Education

We offer advice on how to keep your posture correct to lessen shoulder joint stress and avoid more issues.​

Advanced Modalities at Elite Physiotherapy

To augment traditional physiotherapy, we offer state-of-the-art modalities:​

Shock Wave Therapy

Uses acoustic waves to promote healing, lessen discomfort, and increase shoulder mobility.​

Capacitive and Resistive Electric Transfer (CRET) Therapy, or TECAR or TRF Therapy

increases circulation and encourages tissue regeneration by delivering radiofrequency energy to deep tissues.​

Super Inductive System (SIS)

Helps with pain management and functional recovery by stimulating muscles and neurons with high-intensity electromagnetic fields.​

Class 4 High-Intensity Laser Therapy

Reduces inflammation, eases discomfort, and speeds up the healing process by penetrating deeply into tissues.​

Hydrotherapy

Include warm-water pool workouts that ease joint stress and promote smooth movement.​

Cryotherapy

Uses cold treatment, which is particularly helpful in the early stages of frozen shoulder, to reduce inflammation and numb pain.​

Why Choose Elite Physiotherapy?

At Elite Physiotherapy and Sports Injury Centre, we are committed to providing:​

  • Personalized care: Treatment programs created to fit each patient’s needs.​
  • Experienced professionals: A group of licensed physiotherapists with knowledge of how to treat frozen shoulder.​
  • Advanced technology: Having access to state-of-the-art techniques that improve the effectiveness of treatment.​
  • Comprehensive services: Including home visits, in-clinic sessions, and telerehabilitation choices.​

Conclusion

Although frozen shoulder can have a major negative influence on quality of life, healing is possible with prompt and effective physiotherapy therapies. We at Elite Physiotherapy are committed to helping you at every stage of your recovery process so that you can resume moving without pain. ​

LIPU Therapy: Low Intensity Pulsed Ulrasound Therapy

Posted on by Dr Dharam

Introduction to LIPU: A Modern Therapeutic Approach

Low-intensity pulsed Ultrasound (LIPU) is an innovative, noninvasive therapy that utilizes sound waves to stimulate tissue repair and regeneration. We at Elite Physiotherapy & Sports Injury Centre incorporate LIPU into our cutting-edge treatment plans to improve our patients’ recovery. ​

Understanding the Mechanism of LIPU

To promote healing, LIPU works by providing low-intensity ultrasound waves in pulses that interact with bodily tissues. Among the principal mechanisms are:​

  • Mechanical Stimulation: By causing tiny vibrations in tissues, ultrasound waves increase cellular activity and aid in healing.​
  • Thermal Effects: Although small, the targeted area’s blood flow and metabolic activity may be enhanced by the minor temperature increase.​
  • Cavitation: Microbubble creation can promote tissue regeneration and cellular activity.​

All of these processes work together to promote better tissue function, decreased inflammation, and quicker recovery.​

How LIPU Works?

Ultrasound waves are delivered by LIPU at intervals that result in tiny mechanical stress. This tension encourages:

  • Angiogenesis (formation of new blood vessels)
  • Increased production of proteins
  • Deposition of calcium in bone
  • Cell proliferation and differentiation

leads supported by research indicate that LIPU promotes stem cell activity and boosts the synthesis of growth factors like VEGF (Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor), which leads in a quicker and more efficient recovery.

Clinical Applications of LIPU in Physiotherapy

1. Enhancing Bone Healing

It has been demonstrated that Low Intensity Pulsed Ultrasound speeds up the healing of new fractures. Even in patients with risk factors like smoking, clinical studies show that regular 20-minute sessions can considerably shorten the recovery period. ​

2. Tendon and Ligament Repair

LIPU therapy is beneficial for tendon injuries, which are common in athletes. According to research, Low Intensity Pulsed Ultrasound enhances the structural integrity of regenerating tendons and encourages the creation of collagen. ​

3. Post-Surgical Rehabilitation

Low Intensity Pulsed Ultrasound facilitates the integration of grafts and speeds up healing following treatments such as ACL restoration. It promotes improved healing by increasing cellular activity and blood flow at the tendon-bone junction. ​

4. Soft Tissue Injuries

By lowering inflammation and encouraging tissue regeneration, Low Intensity Pulsed Ultrasound helps cure ligament sprains and muscle strains, allowing for a quicker return to activity.​

Advantages of LIPU Therapy at Elite Physiotherapy

  • Non-Invasive Treatment: LIPU provides a painless substitute for surgery.​
  • Accelerated Recovery: Patients recover more quickly, which enables them to resume sports and regular activities sooner.​
  • Personalized Care: To ensure the best results, our therapists customize LIPU procedures to meet the needs of each patient.​
  • Complementary Therapy: For all-encompassing care, LIPU easily combines with other forms of physiotherapy.​

Common Conditions Treated with Low Intensity Pulsed Ultrasound

  1. Stress fractures: Speeds bone healing
  2. Tendinitis: Promotes collagen regeneration
  3. Post-operative pain: Reduces inflammation
  4. Ligament injuries: Enhances repair and recovery
  5. Osteoarthritis: Improves function and reduces pain

Integrating LIPU into Your Rehabilitation Plan

We use Low Intensity Pulsed Ultrasound in our treatment plans at Elite Physiotherapy & Sports Injury Centre for several conditions, such as:​

  • Bone injuries and fractures​
  • Ligament injuries and tendinitis​
  • Post-operative rehabilitation​
  • Long-term musculoskeletal disorders​

Our skilled physiotherapists evaluate each case to decide whether Low Intensity Pulsed Ultrasound is appropriate, guaranteeing individualized and successful treatment plans.​

Conclusion

An important development in physiotherapy is Low Intensity Pulsed Ultrasound, which provides a non-invasive, practical, and efficient way to encourage tissue recovery. At Elite Physiotherapy & Sports Injury Centre, we’re dedicated to using these cutting-edge treatments to improve patients’ recuperation and general health.​

Experience the benefits of LIPU therapy. Contact us to schedule your consultation today.

IT Band Syndrome : Lateral Knee Pain

Posted on by Dr Dharam

Introduction

Iliotibial Band Syndrome (ITBS) is a prevalent overuse injury among athletes, particularly runners and cyclists. It commonly impairs performance and day-to-day activities by presenting as pain on the outside of the knee. Our expertise in identifying and treating ITBS at Elite Physiotherapy and Sports Injury Centre guarantees a quick and efficient return to activities. ​

Understanding the Iliotibial Band

The iliotibial (IT) band is a thick band of fascia extending from the hip’s lateral aspect down to the outer part of the knee. It plays a crucial role in stabilizing the knee during movement. When this band becomes tight or inflamed, it can lead to ITBS.​

Causes of IT Band Syndrome

Iliotibial Band Syndrome develops as a result of several factors: ​

  • Training Errors: The IT band may be strained by abrupt increases in training time or intensity, insufficient rest, and inadequate warm-up exercises. ​
  • Biomechanical Problems: Poor running mechanics, excessive foot pronation, and variations in leg length can all put more strain on the IT band. ​
  • Muscle Imbalances: Improper leg alignment can exacerbate IT band friction if there is weakness in the hip abductors, gluteal muscles, and core. ​

Repetitive knee flexion and extension usually result in ITBS because the IT band rubs against the lateral femoral epicondyle. Particularly when running or cycling, this friction causes irritation and inflammation. ​

Signs and Symptoms

Individuals with Iliotibial Band Syndrome may experience:​

  • Lateral Knee Pain: A searing or sharp pain on the outside of the knee that usually gets worse when you move.​
  • Tenderness: Sensitivity, especially close to the knee, along the IT band.​
  • Swelling: Localized swelling on the outside of the knee.​
  • Pain with Movement: Uncomfortable when doing things like climbing stairs or sitting for extended periods of time.​
  • Audible Sounds: During movement, the outside of the knee may snap or pop.​

Diagnostic Approach at Elite Physiotherapy

At Elite Physiotherapy and Sports Injury Centre, we employ a comprehensive assessment to diagnose ITBS:​

Physical Examination

  • Posture and Gait Analysis: Analyzing alignment and movement patterns to spot irregularities.​
  • Palpation: Evaluating the IT band’s softness.​
  • Range of Motion Tests: Assessing ankle, knee, and hip joint mobility and flexibility.​

Functional Assessment

  • Activity Simulation: Keeping an eye on mechanics when cycling or jogging in order to spot problematic trends.​
  • Strength testing: Involves determining how strong the quadriceps, gluteal muscles, and hip abductors are.​

Special Physiotherapy Tests

Physiotherapy Management at Elite Physiotherapy

Our tailored approach focuses on alleviating symptoms, addressing underlying causes, and preventing recurrence:​

Pain Management

  • Cryotherapy: Using ice packs to decrease inflammation and numb pain.​
  • Electrotherapy: Pain management through the use of techniques such as transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS).​

Manual Therapy

  • Soft Tissue Mobilization: To relieve tension, deep tissue massage is used to target the gluteal muscles, tensor fasciae latae (TFL), and IT band.​
  • Myofascial Release: Resolving trigger points in the IT band and surrounding muscles.​
  • Joint Mobilization: Improving hip, knee, and ankle joint alignment and mobility.​

Stretching Activities

Improving flexibility in the IT band and surrounding muscles:​

  • Standing IT Band Stretch: Lean sideways and cross one leg behind the other to perform a standing IT band stretch that stretches the outer thigh.​
  • Seated Glute Stretch: Stretching the glutes while seated involves placing one ankle over the other knee and applying light pressure to the elevated knee.​

Strengthening Exercises

Building strength to correct muscle imbalances:​

  • Clamshells: Bend your knees while lying on your side, then open and close your top knee in a clamshell motion.​
  • Lateral Band Walks: Using a resistance band over your ankles, perform lateral band walks while keeping the band taut.​
  • Single-Leg Deadlifts: Lower your torso while extending the other leg behind you while maintaining balance on one leg and hunching at the hips.​
  • Step-Ups: Focus on controlled motions as you step onto a platform with one leg and raise the other leg.​

Biomechanical Correction

  • Gait Retraining: Using techniques to improve walking or running patterns is known as gait retraining.​
  • Footwear Assessment: Making recommendations for suitable footwear or orthotics to correct foot mechanics.​

Advanced Modalities

Incorporating state-of-the-art technologies to enhance recovery:​

  • Shock Wave Therapy: Encourages the IT band to recover by using acoustic waves.​
  • The Super Inductive System: uses electromagnetic fields to provide pain alleviation and deep tissue repair.​
  • High-Intensity Class 4 Laser Therapy: Uses concentrated light energy to speed up tissue repair and lessen inflammation.​
  • Hydrotherapy: Lessens joint impact while enabling movement-based recovery
  • Taping: Using kinesiology taping to relieve tension and promote biomechanics

Why Choose Elite Physiotherapy for IT Band Syndrome?

We offer a holistic and science-backed approach to musculoskeletal injuries at Elite Physiotherapy and Sports Injury Center. Our combination of clinical expertise, world-class facilities, and individualized attention ensures unmatched outcomes for every patient.

We are proud to provide:

  • One-on-one physiotherapy sessions
  • Customized exercise prescriptions
  • High-end electro-modalities and manual therapy techniques
  • Sports-specific rehabilitation programs
  • Guided return-to-sport protocols

Book Your Appointment Today

Don’t let lateral knee pain limit your lifestyle or sports performance. Early intervention ensures faster recovery and prevents long-term issues.

Visit our website at elitephysiotherapy or call us to book a consultation with our expert physiotherapists.

Let us help you move pain-free, perform better, and prevent injury -the Elite way.

PLANTAR FASCIITIS

Posted on by Dr Dharam

Introduction

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain, affecting athletes and non-athletes alike. Our innovative physiotherapy treatments for plantar fasciitis at Elite Physiotherapy & Sports Injury Centre guarantee a quick and efficient recovery. A thorough explanation of plantar fasciitis, including its causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and state-of-the-art physiotherapy treatment, is given in this article.

What is Plantar Fasciitis?

The inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs from the heel bone to the toes, is known as plantar fasciitis. It is essential for maintaining the arch of the foot and absorbing shock when moving. Pain and stiffness are caused by tiny tears that form when this fascia is overstressed.

Causes of Plantar Fasciitis

Excessive strain and stress on the plantar fascia causes inflammation and microtears, which is known as plantar fasciitis. Typical reasons include:

  • Overuse Injury: Repetitive stress from sprinting, jumping, or extended standing can result in overuse injuries.
  • Poor Foot Biomechanics: High arches, flat feet, or inappropriate running or walking patterns.
  • Inappropriate Footwear: Wearing shoes with insufficient cushioning or arch support is considered inappropriate footwear.
  • Obesity: Excess weight puts undue strain on the plantar fascia.
  • Tight Calf Muscles: The heel is under more stress when ankle mobility is restricted.
  • Sudden Increase in Activity: Increasing training intensity quickly without the necessary conditioning.

Excessive loading of the plantar fascia leads to degenerative changes rather than acute inflammation. Chronic pain and stiffness are caused by microtears that form at the fascia’s attachment to the calcaneus (heel bone). The fascia thickens and fibroses as a result of this tension over time, losing its flexibility and functionality.

Signs, Symptoms, and Clinical Features

  • Heel Pain (First-Step Pain): Severe heel pain, particularly in the morning or after extended periods of inactivity.
  • Localized Tenderness: Palpable pain near the medial calcaneal tubercle.
  • Activity-Aggravated Pain: Prolonged standing, running, or walking exacerbates pain.
  • Foot stiffness: The arch of the foot becomes less flexible, particularly after inactivity.
  • Pain Reduction with Rest: When you take a break, your symptoms go away, but when you move, they come back.
  • Swelling: In rare instances, there may be mild heel edema.

Diagnosis of Plantar Fasciitis at Elite Physiotherapy & Sports Injury Centre

To properly diagnose plantar fasciitis, we at Elite Physiotherapy & Sports Injury Centre perform thorough physical and functional evaluations. We assess foot mechanics, muscular imbalances, and pain sources using specific physiotherapy exams.

Physical and Functional Assessment

1. Observation and Palpation

  • Look for any indications of an irregular weight distribution, foot arch height, and swelling.
  • To determine whether the medial calcaneal tubercle is painful, palpate it.

2. Special Physiotherapy Tests

  • The Windlass Test – Involves dorsiflexing the big toe to assess the tightness of the plantar fascia.
  • The heel raise test – Detects weakness and soreness when performing single-leg heel raises.
  • The Navicular Drop Test – Evaluates arch stability and foot pronation.

3. Gait and Biomechanical Analysis

  • Examining running and walking patterns to identify irregularities in foot action.
  • recognizing compensatory motions that could exacerbate discomfort.

4. Range of Motion and Strength Testing

  • Evaluating calf muscle stiffness, foot arch flexibility, and ankle dorsiflexion.
  • Assessing the strength of the intrinsic foot muscles.

Advanced Physiotherapy Management of Plantar Fasciitis

At Elite Physiotherapy & Sports Injury Centre, we utilize cutting-edge physiotherapy treatments to ensure rapid and effective recovery. Our treatment approach focuses on reducing pain, improving biomechanics, and restoring foot function.

1. Pain Management Techniques

  • Shockwave therapy – Decreases chronic pain, promotes healing, and breaks down scar tissue.
  • High-Intensity Class 4 Laser Therapy – Encourages tissue regeneration and reduces inflammation.
  • Super Inductive System (SIS) – Deep tissue stimulation is provided by the Super Inductive System (SIS) to enhance neuromuscular function and lessen discomfort.
  • Cryotherapy – Cold therapy, or cryotherapy, is used to lessen acute pain and inflammation.

2. Manual Therapy

  • Myofascial Release: Specific manual procedures to alleviate calf muscle and plantar fascia strain.
  • Deep Tissue Massage: Reduces lower leg and foot trigger points.
  • Joint Mobilization: Enhances movement patterns by increasing ankle and foot mobility through joint mobilization.

3. Therapeutic Exercises

Stretching Exercises

  • Plantar Fascia Stretch – Pulling the toes toward the shin to release tension is known as a plantar fascia stretch.
  • Calf Stretching – To lessen the strain on the fascia, stretch the gastrocnemius and soleus muscles.

Strengthening Exercises

  • Intrinsic Foot Muscle Strengthening: Arch lifts, toe curls, and towel scrunches are exercises that strengthen the muscles of the feet.
  • Calf Raises: Increasing the strength of the lower leg and foot muscles.
  • Resisted Ankle Movements: To increase foot stability, use resistance bands.

Balance and Proprioception Training

  • Single Leg Balance Exercise: Improve arch control and foot stability
  • Wobble board training: Training on a wobble board increases foot strength and coordination

4. High-End Electrotherapy and Modalities

  • CRET Therapy (Capacitive-Resistive Energy Transfer Therapy) – Enhances deep tissue healing and reduces inflammation.
  • Hydrotherapy – Water-based exercises to reduce weight-bearing stress on the foot.
  • Ultrasound Therapy – Provides deep tissue healing and improves circulation.

5. Footwear Modification and Orthotics

  • Custom Orthotics – Provides arch support and redistributes pressure evenly.
  • Footwear Advice – Guidance on selecting shoes with proper cushioning and arch support.

6. Kinesiology Taping

  • Supportive Taping Techniques – Reduces stress on the plantar fascia and improves foot mechanics.
  • Dynamic Taping – Provides proprioceptive feedback to enhance foot function.

Why Choose Elite Physiotherapy & Sports Injury Centre for Plantar Fasciitis Treatment?

At Elite Physiotherapy & Sports Injury Centre, we provide:

  • Expert Physiotherapists specializing in sports injury rehabilitation.
  • State-of-the-art technology for advanced pain relief and healing.
  • Personalized treatment plans tailored to individual needs.
  • Holistic approach integrating manual therapy, exercises, and high-end modalities.
  • Fast recovery and long-term pain relief with advanced physiotherapy techniques.

Conclusion

Plantar fasciitis can be debilitating, but with the right physiotherapy treatment, recovery is possible. At Elite Physiotherapy & Sports Injury Centre, we use the latest evidence-based techniques, high-end modalities, and expert physiotherapy care to ensure optimal healing. If you’re experiencing heel pain, don’t let it affect your daily activities. Book an appointment today and take the first step towards a pain-free life!

TURF TOE | TOE INJURY

Posted on by Dr Dharam

Introduction

Turf toe is a significant concern for athletes, particularly those engaged in sports requiring sudden acceleration, deceleration, or directional changes. The diagnosis and treatment of turf toe is our specialty at Elite Physiotherapy and Sports Injury Centre, guaranteeing a quick and secure return to optimal performance. ​

Understanding Turf Toe

Turf toe refers to a sprain of the metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint of the big toe. Usually, this injury happens when the toe is forcefully twisted upward, causing the soft tissues and ligaments around it to stretch or rip. ​

Causes and Mechanism of Injury

The primary cause of turf toe is hyperextension of the big toe, often resulting from:​

  • Sports Activities: Because artificial grass has less traction, playing sports on it might cause the foot to slip backward while the toe stays planted. ​
  • Inappropriate Footwear: The danger might be increased by wearing shoes with flexible soles or inadequate support. ​
  • Repetitive Stress: The disorder may be exacerbated by constant push-off motions, which are typical during running and leaping. ​

Signs and Symptoms

Individuals with turf toe may experience:​

  • Pain and Tenderness are located at the base of the big toe, intensifying during movement.​
  • Swelling and Bruising: Visible around the MTP joint.​
  • Limited Joint Movement: Difficulty in bending or straightening the toe.​
  • Instability: A sensation of looseness in the toe joint.

Diagnostic Methods

At Elite Physiotherapy and Sports Injury Centre, our diagnostic approach includes:​

  • Clinical evaluation: Entails reviewing the patient’s medical history and performing a physical examination to detect limitations in the range of motion, edema, and soreness. ​
  • Functional assessment: Involves tracking weight-bearing and walking patterns to identify any irregularities. ​
  • Special Physiotherapy Tests: Making use of certain evaluations to assess the MTP joint’s and the surrounding structures’ integrity. ​
  • Imaging Studies: Making a referral for MRI or X-rays when required to evaluate soft tissue injury or rule out fractures. ​

Advanced Physiotherapy Management

Our centre offers a comprehensive, individualized treatment plan focusing on:​

Initial Care

  • Rest and Activity Modification: Helping patients cut back on activities that make their symptoms worse. ​
  • Cryotherapy: Using ice packs to relieve pain and inflammation. ​
  • Compression and Elevation: To reduce swelling, apply bandages and raise the foot.

Therapeutic Modalities

  • Shock Wave Therapy: Using acoustic waves to promote healing and reduce pain. ​
  • High-Intensity Class 4 Laser Therapy: This method reduces inflammation and promotes cellular healing by penetrating tissues with laser light. ​
  • Super Inductive System (SIS): Using electromagnetic fields to improve neuromuscular function and reduce pain. ​
  • Hydrotherapy: Performing regulated aquatic activities to increase mobility without putting undue strain on the toe.

Manual Therapy

  • Joint mobilization: It is the process of restoring normal joint mechanics with mild movements. ​
  • Soft Tissue Manipulation: Applying pressure to the surrounding muscles and ligaments to ease stress and increase blood flow.

Exercise Rehabilitation

  • Range of Motion Exercises: Using motions to preserve and improve joint flexibility. ​
  • Strengthening exercises: Targeting the lower leg and foot muscles to improve MTP joint support. ​
  • Proprioceptive Training: Improving balance and coordination through proprioceptive training can help avoid further injuries.

Education and Prevention

  • Advice for Footwear: To safeguard the toe joint, shoes with the right amount of support and stiffness are advised. ​
  • Activity Modification: Advising on methods and approaches to reduce the chance of re-injury when playing sports and going about daily tasks. ​

Conclusion

Although common among athletes, turf toe requires prompt and effective treatment to prevent long-term issues. At Elite Physiotherapy and Sports Injury Centre, we provide customized treatment using cutting-edge modalities and research-proven techniques. We want to ensure that you can quickly and safely resume your active lifestyle.