Tag Archives: running

Ankle Sprain

Ankle Sprain

ANKLE SPRAIN:

Lateral ankle sprains are one of the most common sports injuries presenting to Dr7 Physiotherapy and Podiatry Yokine. We provide Physiotherapy and Podiatry services to Yokine, Dianella, Joondana, Tuart Hill, Osborne Park, Coolbinia, Mount Lawley, Bedford, Inglewood, Balcatta, Stirling, Nollamara and surrounding suburbs and are extremely experienced in managing your rolled ankle.

In this area we have a large proportion of young people participating in competitive sports such as netball, basketball, soccer and football. These are all sports that have a high incidence of ankle sprain due to the volume of running, jumping, pivoting and twisting movements necessary.

A lateral ankle sprain occurs when the ankle is forced into an internally rotated position past it’s normal range. Usually this occurs while changing direction, pivoting or twisting during competition. This causes the ligaments on the outside of the ankle – the anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL), posterior talofibular ligament (PTFL) and calcaneofibular ligament (CFL) – to become stretched and torn. These ligaments serve two main functions:

  1. Act as passive restrictions to limit excessive movement of the ankle joint
  2. Play an important role in proprioception. Proprioception is the body’s ability to sense the position of a joint, which helps with balance and stability
Ankle Sprain
Ankle Sprain

The extent of the injury can vary depending on how many ligaments are affected and the severity of injury to each ligament. When these ligaments are damaged it triggers an inflammatory response from the body. Inflammatory cells are rushed to the site of injury and the foot becomes swollen, red and painful. After injury the person is likely to experience:

  • Pain: around ankle, foot and/or leg
  • Inability to weight bear (standing, walking, running)
  • Swelling, heat and redness around the ankle, leg and/or foot
  • In the days following injury swelling can increase and bruising may start to appear around the ankle, leg and foot

Management of Ankle Sprain:

An ankle sprain is almost always managed conservatively (non-operatively). The goal of treatment here at Dr7 Physiotherapy and Podiatry Joondanna is to reduce inflammation, restore normal movement, and then improve strength and proprioception in the later stages of recovery to facilitate a safe return to sport.

Initially treatment consists of:

  • Rest: restrict weight bearing activities such as standing, walking, running
  • Compress: bandaging to apply pressure around the ankle helps restrict further swelling. In severe cases you may require a cam boot to immobilise the ankle
  • Ice: applying ice to the affected area for 20 minutes at a time, with at least 40 minutes in between applications
  • Elevate: Raising the ankle above the level of the heart helps reduce swelling to the area
  • Physiotherapy: your Dr7 Physiotherapist can provide additional treatments including ultrasound, massage, mobilisations, hydrotherapy, taping and exercises to facilitate a quicker recovery following acute inflammation.

Following the initial phase of inflammation, your Dr7 Physiotherapist will prescribe you with a set of exercises to restore normal movement, improve muscle strength and proprioception of the ankle. This is the most important part of your recovery as it drastically reduces your chances of re-injuring the ankle. Your exercise program will be specifically tailored to you based on your specific injury and sport. Your Dr7 Physiotherapist will then ‘coach’ you through the return to sport phase by giving advice on when to return to running, returning to agility exercises, returning to training and eventually returning to competitive play.

Returning to Sport:

Once you have completed a rehabilitation program and are ready to return to play you may need to consider whether to tape/brace during training and games. Taping/Bracing provides support and passive restraints to extremes of movement, as well as assisting with proprioception around the ankle. In moderate to severe cases where ligaments are very stretched and torn there may be ongoing laxity in the ankle, meaning that taping/bracing is recommended for future games. It is also important to continue with stability and balance exercises going forward to prevent future injury.

If you have any questions regarding ankle sprains or other injury don’t hesitate to contact Dr7 Physiotherapy and Podiatry Tuart Hill for a consultation.

 

How to book an assessment with our qualified physiotherapists

There are 2 ways in which you can secure an appointment at Dr7 Physiotherapy and Podiatry.

  1. Call (08) 9349 1777 to speak with one of our friendly receptionists to book an appointment.
  2. Book an appointment online through Health Engine. This is located on our website com.auSimply click “book an appointment” and you will be guided through the steps.

Dr7 Physiotherapy and Podiatry provides services to Yokine, Dianella, Joondana, Tuart Hill, Osborne Park, Coolbinia, Mount Lawley, Bedford, Inglewood, Balcatta, Stirling, Nollamara and surrounding suburbs.

 

Dr7 Podiatry orthotics

Orthotics at Dr7 Podiatry

Orthotics is a device inserted into footwear to correct or change the alignment of your feet to help alleviate foot, ankle, lower leg, hip or lower back pain.  All ages can benefit from orthotic wear, from young children to the elderly.

Orthotics can help reduce the strain and stress on your feet, legs, knees and lower back.  They are prescribed to treat acute injuries and also resolve long term chronic issues.

 

Types of orthotics that can be specially ordered by our podiatrists at Dr7 Physiotherapy and Podiatry
Types of orthotics that can be specially ordered by our podiatrists at Dr7 Physiotherapy and Podiatry

 

What is included in an orthotic consultation?

An orthotic consultation which leads to an orthotic device is an all inclusive fee.  Our team at Dr7 Osborne Park understand you don’t like nasty financial surprises.  All fees will be clearly explained before commencement of treatment.

At Dr7 Yokine, an orthotic consultation from one of our professional team of podiatrists will:

  • explain in simple terms what is causing your pain and if orthotic therapy deemed required, it will be explained on how it will resolve your foot health issues.
  • provide a personalized clinical assessment of your feet according to your problem or symptoms
  • provide a comprehensive biomechanical analysis of your upper and lower body
  • gait analysis
  • provide a complementary* one month review appointment of your orthotics to ensure you are settling in your orthotics as expected (*no charge for complentary review appointment – applicable for customized orthotics only)

 

Custom made orthotics at Dr7 Physiotherapy and Podiatry
Custom made orthotics at Dr7 Physiotherapy and Podiatry

 

How do orthotics work?

 Orthotics aim to support your arches, it addresses and fixes biomechanical issues which is causing your foot pain.

Everyone has different arch configurations, flat (pes planus), ‘normal’ or high (pes cavus) arches.  No matter what type of arch configuration you have, or whatever foot health issue you have, you can be assured the podiatry team at Dr7 Tuart Hill will issue and prescribe an orthotic specific to your requirements.

 

 Conditions that orthotics treat

  • Heel pain – heel spurs, heel bursitis
  • Plantar fasciitis – arch pain
  • Flat feet – causing overpronation when weightbearing resulting in tired, aching or sore feet
  • Childrens feet – growing pains, excessive pronation, biomechanical developmental assistance
  • Osteoarthritic & rheumatoid foot pain – bunions, hammertoes, clawtoes or deformed joints.
  • ankle sprains – lateral ankle instability
  • Achilles tendonitis
  • Morton neuroma – nerve impingement pain in the forefoot.
  • Metatarsalgia – general forefoot pain
  • painful callous or corn areas on excessive loading areas of the feet
  • Cuboid syndrome – lateral foot pain from overuse of peroneus longus muscle due to excessive pronation
  • Shin splints
  • Knee pain – ‘knock knees’, excessive medial stress, arthritic knee pain
  • Lower back pain – if related to biomechanical issues in feet

 

Range of orthotics

Dr7 Coolbinia has an extensive range of orthotics to resolve your symptoms at a budget to suit you.

 

Pre-made – Over the Counter (OTC) orthotics

  • Dr7 Joondanna stocks premium pre-made or over the counter (OTC) orthotics.
  • Professional podiatric brands such as Vasyli, Vasyli + Dananberg, X-lines and ICB orthotics are ready to be dispensed at time of consultation.
  • Kiddy pre-made orthotics are also stocked for young children.
  • OTC orthotics are made from soft, medium or hard density EVA. Density of EVA given will differ according to symptoms, activity level and age.
  • OTC orthoses have a life span between 1-3 years depending on usage, weight of individual and type of activity used for.

 

Pre-made and over the counter orthotics are available at Dr7 Physiotherapy and Podiatry
Pre-made and over the counter orthotics are available at Dr7 Physiotherapy and Podiatry

 

Customised orthotics

  • Before an impression of your feet is performed a thorough biomechanical assessment is done. Biomechanical analysis will include assessment of leg length difference, shoulder & hip tilt assessment, lower back configuration, hip & knee & sub-talar joint range of motion, calf flexibility assessment and gait analysis.
  • Dr 7 Menora uses state of the art impression techniques for our latest designed prescribed or customized orthotics.
  • Customised orthotics are tailored for the individual and requires an impression mould or scan of your feet.
  • Our impression techniques include traditional plaster of paris casting, box 3D scanning and the latest IPad 3D scanning technique using the AOMSTOT and Meshlab application program.
  • Customised orthotics traditionally are made from German made high quality polypropylene and is guaranteed to last over 10 years.
  • Custom orthoses may be made from soft, medium or hard density EVA if required.
  • differing designs offered: slim line orthotics (suitable for shallow footwear), full length covers, Cobra slim (for sporting boots)
  • differing covering colours available for aesthetic purposes
  • Dr7 Dianella uses top line Australian orthotic laboratories for our manufacture: Biolab Precision Orthoses; Artisan Orthotics and Orthotech Orthotics.

 

Different type of material and colours for your custom orthotics available at Dr7 Physiotherapy and Podiatry
Different type of material and colours for your custom orthotics available at Dr7 Physiotherapy and Podiatry

 

Refurbishment of existing orthotics

Should you have existing orthotics and in need of a refurbishment or modification, the team of podiatrists at Dr7 Balcatta can easily arrange to have your existing orthotics looking and feeling brand new again.

Orthotics should be reviewed annually to check for optimal fit and integrity.

The friendly podiatry team at Dr7 Physiotherapy & Podiatry look forward to assisting you on any foot relating health issue.

 

We are well located to provide physiotherapy, podiatry, hydrotherapy and massage to  Yokine, Dianella, Joondana, Tuart Hill, Osborne Park, Coolbinia, Mount Lawley, Bedford, Inglewood, Balcatta, Stirling, Nollamara and surrounding Perth communities.

We have been providing friendly and professional physiotherapy, podiatry, hydrotherapy and massage treatment since 2001.

Corns_and_Calluses-530x320

Corns and Calluses

Corns and Calluses forms when there is continuous pressure and friction on an area of skin. The pressure causes the layer of skin to die and a hard layer of skin is then formed to protect it. Corns are usually smaller than calluses and are formed on places like top, side and in between your toes. Calluses usually develop underneath your foot like on the heel and may differ in size and shape. Corns are more painful then calluses where as calluses can be uncomfortable.

corns and calluses

Causes:

Continuous pressure and friction can cause corns and calluses to form, these are some of the reasons:

  • Wearing shoes either too loose or too tight can cause friction on certain places on your foot. If the shoe is too loose your foot will be sliding around causing friction to the side of the foot.
  • High heels will compress the front of your toes and put pressure on the heel of your foot.
  • Not wearing socks will create friction within the shoe between your foot and the shoe itself.
  • Claw toes and bunions may contribute to the development of corns and calluses.

Treatment:

If the pain remains then you may come to Dr7 Podiatry in Yokine for a podiatrist to:

  • remove or debride the corns or calluses , this should not be done by yourself because it may be easily infected if not done properly
  • Over the counter medicine for corns and calluses  such as patches and cream may be applied, usually things that include salicylic acid. But this is not recommended because it will cause more problems in the future.
  • In rare cases surgery may be an option so that they may align your foot correctly.

Prevention:

You may apply these methods everyday to prevent corns or calluses from forming:

  • Moisturise the foot to keep the skin soft.
  • Wearing comfortable cushioned shoes and socks.
  • Custom orthotics may also align your feet and prevent friction within the shoes. You may book an appointment with Dr7 Physio and Podiatry Yokine Perth for a casting and dispense of custom orthotics.

We are well located to provide physiotherapy, podiatry, hydrotherapy and massage to  Yokine, Dianella, Joondana, Tuart Hill, Osborne Park, Coolbinia, Mount Lawley, Bedford, Inglewood, Balcatta, Stirling, Nollamara and surrounding Perth communities.

We have been providing friendly and professional physiotherapy, podiatry, hydrotherapy and massage treatment since 2001.

Lower back pain

Lower back pain

Low-Back-Pain

Lower back pain problems are a common issue for many patients treated at Dr7 Physio and Podiatry in Yokine Perth. Many of our patients from the surrounding suburbs such as Yokine, Dianella, Joondana, Tuart Hill etc, are being successfully treated for back pain every week by our highly experienced physiotherapists.

Causes:

Usually lower back pain is caused by a strain in the muscles or a sprain in the ligaments in the lower back. Things that contribute to the strain and sprain to the muscles include:

  • Improper lifting, instead of squatting down and lifting with your legs you bend over and lift with your back.
  • Lack of regular fitness, running after a long time can strain your muscles because it is not use to it.
  • A ruptured disc, the disc may be pressing on the sciatica nerve causing constant lower back pain.
  • Poor posture, if your posture is bad certain muscles groups will have to compensate for the other areas. This causes strain in the muscle that is working over time.

Lower back pain relief:

  • Cold packs, applying a cold pack to your back may reduce the inflammation of the muscles. It also slows down nerve impulses which causes spasms that causes lower back pain.
  • Heat packs, this will stimulate blood flow which increases the healing process.
  • Stretching, continuous stretching daily can loosen the tense muscles in the lower back.
  • Taking medication, Pain relief medication may temporarily reduce your lower back pain.

Treatment:

  • Come down to Dr7 Physio and Podiatry in Yokine Perth to get a physiotherapist to administer dry needling, manipulation and releasing your pressure points with a massage.
  • A professional masseuse at Dr7 Physio and Podiatry can target the right muscle group and strains to relieve you from lower back pain.

Prevention:

  • Strengthening your core, this will provide support to your lower back.
  • Exercise regularly, this will keep your body healthy and strengthen other muscles in your body which supports to the lower back.
  • Be well rested, sleeping is a very important factor and sleeping sideways is also beneficial to the lower back.
  • Lift heavy objects correctly, keep your back straight and use your legs to lift and not your back.
  • maintain proper posture, keep your back upright and correct your posture so all the muscles are correctly supporting one another.

 

We are well located to provide physiotherapy, podiatry, hydrotherapy and massage to  Yokine, Dianella, Joondana, Tuart Hill, Osborne Park, Coolbinia, Mount Lawley, Bedford, Inglewood, Balcatta, Stirling, Nollamara and surrounding Perth communities.

We have been providing friendly and professional physiotherapy, podiatry, hydrotherapy and massage treatment since 2001.

blister2

Blisters

 

 

Blisters are a very common foot problem due to shoes not fitting correctly, either too tight or too loose. They are small pockets of skin filled with fluid caused by friction of the foot and the shoes most commonly. Walking or standing for several hours may also contribute to the cause due to the pressure you put on your feet. Moisture on your foot can also lead to blisters due to your pores being clogged up by sweat.

Treatment:

Unburst Blisters:

It is better to keep blisters unburst to avoid the risk of infection. Try not to cover up your blisters and let it breathe, but you may also put a plaster or bandage on it to prevent it from friction.

Burst Blisters:

If the blister has burst due to the large amount of friction that has been put on it, do not remove the skin. Instead you should wash it properly and use sterile dressing to dress it everyday until it is healed.

blister1

Draining Blisters:

This is not recommended but if the blister is in an awkward area or causes too much pain, you may burst and drain it yourself.

  1. Wash your hands thoroughly and sterilise a needle
  2. Puncture the sides of the blister with the sterile needle and not the centre of it
  3. Gently press down on the blister and let the fluid drain out
  4. Wash the blister after all fluid is drained
  5. Dry the area and apply a sterile dressing over it and change this everyday to avoid infection.

If there is blood in the blister this method is not recommended and instead you should not burst it and just let it heal itself.

blister

Prevention:

  • Wearing Shoes that fit well and not lacing up your shoes too tight
  • Wear socks that are breathable and moisture wicking
  • Putting orthotics in your shoes may position your foot better, we can custom make orthotics at Dr7 Physio and Podiatry.
  • Keeping your feet dry by putting talcum powder or antiperspirant

 

We are well located to provide physiotherapy, podiatry, hydrotherapy and massage to  Yokine, Dianella, Joondana, Tuart Hill, Osborne Park, Coolbinia, Mount Lawley, Bedford, Inglewood, Balcatta, Stirling, Nollamara and surrounding Perth communities.

We have been providing friendly and professional physiotherapy, podiatry, hydrotherapy and massage treatment since 2001

 

Hydrotherapy

What is physiotherapy?

What is physiotherapy? Physiotherapy is a medical practice that is designed to help patients with injuries. The aim is to restore mobility and flexibility. In most cases, their services are called in to help patients recovering from injury or disease.

A physiotherapist is a qualified, well-trained individual. They work in concert with doctors to provide a physical element to the recovery. Like all medical personnel, they work so the patient can get better and be given the tools to remain healthy.

Physiotherapists use a variety of techniques and go over various data. Their tasks require them to make assessments, diagnosis and prescribe treatments for a broad range of conditions. Movement disorders, joint issues, injuries, and other mobility-related problems are part of their expertise.

However, the practice is not limited to post-injury treatment. They can also be called upon to provide regimens meant to prevent injury or promote better health. Physical rehabilitation and maintenance of mobility, along with aid in particular chronic disease management programs, is not unusual.

A typical physiotherapist in Australia will have an education in patient education and occupational health.

You might be wondering: why would I need a physiotherapist? The first inclination is to think that you don’t and never will. An injury-free lifestyle and a healthy diet, along with exercise, seems like a good recipe for keeping the doctor at bay.

However, various people might come to a physiotherapist to address a variety of concerns. Even those who are perfectly healthy may decide to consult one, in the interest of staying in good health. It helps that the discipline can address a broad range of needs.

Cardiovascular and respiratory therapy are everyday actions for physio Dianella.

The heart and lungs are like the body’s engine, making sure that all the right stuff is pumped into all the right places. Physiotherapy regimens can help rehabilitate people living at risk of many hearts and lung-related conditions, such as asthma.

The physio Osborne Park practice can also provide technique’s to help recover from surgery involving the cardiovascular or respiratory systems.

Cancer is also a possible cause you might seek physiotherapy Dianella.

Lymphoedema, palliative care, and other cancer-related needs can be addressed through the right regimens. Physiotherapists can devise programs that include the treatment and management of the fatigue associated with the cancer treatments.

At the same time, they can aid in deconditioning and alleviating the muscle and joint stiffness. These are sometimes known to be side effects of certain types of cancer treatment.

The elderly can also reap a variety of benefits. Exercise and physical activity – as directed by physiotherapy Dianella – can help improve the quality of life for senior citizens.

Older individuals can use physiotherapy to improve their mobility in the wake of incontinence, osteoporosis, and other conditions. A regimen can also be designed to aid in remaining mobile and active, even in their old physical state.

Physiotherapy can also help the old address continence issues.

Women’s health is also an area that may benefit. Pregnancy, bowel control, post-partum care, pre-birth exercises, and menopause are all areas where physiotherapy can offer assistance.

Some neurological concerns may also be addressed.

Neurology and physiotherapy converge in the areas of damage to the spinal cord or brain. Injuries and trauma may reduce mobility or quality of life. A combination of neurological efforts and physiotherapy regimens can reduce the problem, particularly for conditions such as Parkinson’s or multiple sclerosis.

Orthopaedic concerns are also covered.

Physiotherapy Yokine can help the management of acute or chronic conditions. Osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and amputations are some areas that the practice can help with. They are also part of the rehabilitation program for orthopaedic surgery.

Musculoskeletal areas can also benefit from physiotherapy. The primary focus here lies in preventing strain and injury. Techniques can also address some underlying problems, such as limited mobility, or neck and back pain.

Physiotherapy Dianella can also assist various occupational health concerns. The practices and exercises can support the overall well-being of workers. They can also help in reducing the risk of injury or disease and address safety hazards.

There are other areas where a physiotherapist Joondanna might be able to offer help. Consult with one to make sure. Other areas where physio Dianella might help include men recovering from testicular cancer. Physio Yokine can also assist various paediatric concerns.

You might be curious about the average physiotherapy Osborne Park session. Below you’ll find a description of how things tend to go so that you can get an idea for yourself.

The session – indeed, your entire relationship with a physiotherapist – begins with questions. The therapist will ask about your overall health and various other queries, intent on getting an idea about your unique needs and condition. The treatment will depend on what is learned at this stage.

Assessment and diagnosis of what the patient needs follows, using information on the condition. The goal at this point is to know what would be required, which informs the plan and regimen.

This is also the point where the therapist inquires about the patient’s goals. Some patients want to run marathons, while others want to remain physically mobile even in old age. What they want will affect what the therapist will recommend.

A therapist will work with you in setting those goals. Sometimes, you might set a goal that is far too advanced or beyond your body’s current abilities. A physiotherapist can help keep the objectives from being impossible but still challenging. Physio Joondanna can be a huge help for you.

Finally, a treatment plan is developed. Physical aids and exercise will usually be part of this, along with changes to lifestyle and general health. The result is a comprehensive plan meant to make your life better, while also helping you achieve your goal at a steady pace.

Physio Tuart Hill can assist you in having a better quality of life. The holistic approach and the ties with other medical practices mean that you are getting comprehensive care and the attention of a professional. Physiotherapy Tuart Hill might be a good idea for you and your overall health.

 

Phelps Cupping

Myofascial Cupping

Were you wondering what those big bruises on Michael Phelps’ back were during his Rio Olympic campaign? They were the result of a technique called Myofascial Cupping. Cupping therapy is an ancient form of alternative medicine in which a therapist puts special cups on your skin for a few minutes to create suction. People get it for many purposes, including to help with pain, inflammation, blood flow, relaxation and well-being, and as a type of deep-tissue massage. Cupping helps to stretch tight muscles and fascia and promotes healing in the area.

Myofascial cupping procedure commonly involves creating a small area of low air pressure next to the skin. However, there are varieties in the tools used, the methods of creating the low pressure, and the procedures followed during the treatment.

The cups can be of various shapes including balls or bells, and may range in size from 1 to 3 inches (25 to 76 mm) across the opening. Plastic and glass are the most common materials used today, replacing the horn, pottery, bronze and bamboo cups used in earlier times. The low air pressure required may be created by heating the cup or the air inside it with an open flame or a bath in hot scented oils, then placing it against the skin. As the air inside the cup cools, it contracts and draws the skin slightly inside. More recently, vacuum is created with a mechanical suction pump acting through a valve located at the top of the cup. Rubber cups are also available that squeeze the air out and adapt to uneven or bony surfaces.

In practice, cups are normally used only on softer tissue that can form a good seal with the edge of the cup. They may be used singly or with many to cover a larger area. They may be used by themselves or placed over an acupuncture needle. Skin may be lubricated, allowing the cup to move across the skin slowly.

Skin markings are common after the cups are removed, varying from simple red rings that disappear relatively quickly, to discolourisation from bruising, especially if the cups are dragged while suctioned from one place to another, ostensibly to break down muscle fiber. Usually treatments are not very painful

Call our team of professional physiotherapists today for more information or ask about it during your next session!

Dr7 Physiotherapy & Podiatry

Physiotherapy Perth – BUPA MEMBERS FIRST

Exciting news!
From June 1st, 2016, DR7 Physiotherapy and Podiatry will become part of the BUPA Members First Network. This means that BUPA members will receive a discounted rate on initial and subsequent consultations for physiotherapy and podiatry, as well as 60% – 100% rebate for these services. Also, there will be NO out-of-pocket expense for physiotherapy and podiatry services for dependent kids under 25. Contact us or BUPA if you have any further questions.

BUPA

trail running dr7 physio

Physiotherapy Yokine – Trail running around Perth

Love running but a bit bored with the same old neighborhood route? Give trail running a go! A few of our physios went “bush” and had a fantastic time last weekend enjoying the cool and sunny morning running the 11km Echidna and 5km Kangaroo Trails located in Walyunga National Park just north of the Swan Valley. Beautiful and challenging! A relaxing long lunch at the stunning Mandoon Winery topped off a fantastic day!

Get a few friends together and search out some bush trails around Perth’s nearby National Parks. You will be surprised at how beautiful and amazing our natural ‘backyard’ has to offer. Feel free to contact us if you have any questions on this or any other running topics!