Concussions are one of the most prevalent and most misunderstood athletic injuries. Also known as an “invisible injury,” because it cannot be seen, but has a huge impact on brain function. Usually, a concussion happens when an individual suffers a direct or indirect force to the head that causes the brain to accelerate and decelerate rapidly within the skull. Unlike what people think, there does not have to be a direct blow to the head for someone to develop a concussion. While it can happen from a hit to the head from a ball, puck, or person, it can also happen…

A slew of setbacks, most notably a serious knee injury and the resulting muscular strains, are the cause of Neymar’s physical issues. In October 2023, Neymar ruptured his meniscus and anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in his left knee while playing for Brazil. Consequently, he was out of commission for about a year which needed a surgery and prolonged rehabilitation. Afterwards, he returned in October 2024, making a fleeting appearance for his team, Al Hilal, in a Champions League game. However, Neymar sustained a thigh injury in a Champions League match against Esteghlal FC barely two weeks after his return. After just 29 minutes of play, he was forced to leave the field. Al Hilal acknowledged that he had to miss up to six weeks of action due to a hamstring issue.  These recurring injuries highlight the challenges athletes face when returning to play after significant injuries. Doctors had warned Neymar…

The hip joint is one of the most important joints for athletes, it is used in movements such as running, jumping, changing in direction, and kicking. In high impact sports, the chance of injuring the hip increases. For example, this can range from minor muscle strains to major structural pathologies, including fractures. Even with the best preventative strategies, hip injuries do occur in sports either from overuse or acute trauma. However, athletes can get back to full recovery and performance if the injury is diagnosed early and managed appropriately. Types of Hip Injuries Muscle Strains Kicking is a common method…

Both ice and heat therapy are commonly used in Physiotherapy clinics and at home for pain relief and injury recovery. Each therapy has its own mechanism of action (how it works) and advantages. Read more to find out how each therapy affects you, and which one may suit your situation more. What are the effects of ice therapy (cryotherapy)? Slows blood flow: First, the main mechanism in how cold therapy works is by constricting blood vessels (vasoconstriction). As a result, this can help reduce bleeding, bruising, and swelling after an injury Reduces inflammation: Additionally, through vasoconstriction, cold therapy minimizes the…

Deadlifting is a highly effective exercise for building strength, especially in the posterior chain (glutes, lower back, and hamstrings). However, improper technique or a lack of foundational strength can lead to injuries, especially in the hamstring. If you are an avid lifter or just looking to get started with deadlifting, here is a quick guide on preventing and recovering from hamstring strains related to deadlifting. What do the hamstrings do in a deadlift? The hamstrings are a group of three muscles located at the back of your thigh: the biceps femoris, semitendinosus, and semimembranosus. These muscles are primarily responsible for…

An ankle sprain is one of the most common injuries. Rest, ice, compression, and elevation, or the RICE rule, will be the go-to’s for ankle sprains. In most cases, ankle sprains heal between 4-12 weeks depending on the severity of the injury. Although the injuries will heal with time, a failure to seek treatment and physical rehabilitation for your ankle after just one injury is enough to leave it weaker. Consequently, this makes your ankle more vulnerable to future sprains or chronic instability. Interestingly, about 20% of ankle sprains are estimated to lead to chronic instability. What causes you chronic…

Strengthening the quadriceps is crucial for minimizing the risk of knee injuries. Notably, the quadriceps (the group of muscles on the front of your thigh) play a key role in stabilizing and supporting the knee joint. As a result, regular training and maintenance of this muscle group is crucial for knee health. The following are 6 reasons why you should train your quads strength! 1. Stabilizes the knee joint The quadriceps are the primary muscles that help extend your knee (straighten your leg). They work in tandem with the hamstrings (muscles on the back of the thigh) to provide balance…

ACL rehab is very important for you to get back to your normal life as well as your athletic activities. Frequently, sports injuries lead to pain, inflammation, and instability in the knee that can interrupt your daily life. However, working alongside a Physiotherapist, you will be able to recover and participate in physical activities again. How does an ACL Injury occur? The most common mechanism of injury is non-contact, such as a twist on a planted foot, coming down badly from a jump, or a sudden stop. Usually, ACL tears are very common sports injuries such as in soccer, volleyball…

What is a TFCC (Triangular Fibrocartilage Complex) injury? First, the Triangular Fibrocartilage Complex (TFCC) is a critical structure located in the wrist,specifically on the side of the pinky finger. It plays a role in stabilizing the wrist joint, particularly during activities that involve gripping or weight-bearing through the hands. It is comprised of a triangular fibrocartilage disc, ligaments, and associated structures. Importantly, the TFCC provides cushioning and stability between the 2 bones at the end of the forearm/beginning of the wrist (the radius and the ulna) A closer look at the TFCC The TFCC consists of several components, including the…

Hamstring strains are a common injury among young athletes, particularly in sports that involve sprinting, jumping, or sudden changes in direction. Importantly, the hamstrings, a group of muscles located at the back of the thigh, play a crucial role in movement and stability. When these muscles are overstretched or torn, it can lead to pain and functional impairment, impacting a child’s ability to participate in sports and other activities. Causes of Hamstring Strains in Young Athletes Hamstring strains are usually a result of an injury at a particular moment in time. It can be a fall, or an awkward movement…