Understanding Sports Injuries
Whether you’re a weekend runner or a competitive athlete, injuries are an unfortunate part of an active lifestyle. Recognising the early warning signs and seeking physiotherapy promptly can prevent minor issues from becoming major setbacks.
At Wandsworth Physiotherapy, we specialise in sports injury management, offering advanced diagnostics like ultrasound scans, shockwave therapy, and tailored rehabilitation to help you return stronger.
1. Persistent Pain After Activity
A common misconception is that soreness after exercise is normal. While mild delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) is common, sharp or lingering pain is not. If discomfort persists for more than 24 hours to a few days, especially with regular activity, it could indicate tissue aggravation requiring professional assessment, ideally from a physio that has a specialism in sports injuries.
2. Reduced Range of Motion
Stiffness that limits your ability to move freely could suggest joint inflammation, ligament sprains, or muscle strains. A specialist sports physiotherapist can help restore normal range of motion through manual therapy, stretching, and targeted exercises before the restriction becomes permanent and more difficult to treat.
3. Instability or “Giving Way”
If you notice a joint feeling unstable — such as a knee buckling or an ankle giving way — it’s a strong sign of ligament damage or weakness. Our sports physiotherapists use dynamic assessments and strength testing (like force plates and dynamometry) to guide evidence-based recovery plans.
4. Swelling or Bruising
Swelling is your body’s natural response to injury, but excessive or prolonged swelling needs professional evaluation. Ignoring it may lead to joint stiffness, muscle inhibition, and delayed healing.
5. Struggling to Progress in Training
If you’re plateauing, losing strength, or unable to hit performance milestones despite hard work, underlying biomechanical issues could be holding you back. Physiotherapy can fine-tune your mechanics, strength, and flexibility to unlock peak performance.
FAQs
- Can I see a physiotherapist without a referral?
Yes, you can self-refer directly to Wandsworth Physiotherapy for expert care. - Do you offer rehab for elite athletes?
Absolutely. Our team includes specialists with elite sport experience. - How long is a sports injury treatment plan?
It varies depending on the severity, but typically ranges from 6–12 weeks.
