A Recent Case Study in Clinic of a Stress Fracture we Picked up

Chelmsford Physio • March 26, 2024

BSI in runners are more prevalent than you might think. We had an interesting case in clinic recently, a 27 year old runner, training for the London Marathon.


A very fit, active & healthy, Experienced athlete, good training history and works as a Personal Trainer. Presented with anterior hip pain, complaining of a hip flexor strain.

Based on the history and physical examination, it clearly wasn’t a hip flexor strain and we arranged an MRI to assess the hip joint, it confirmed an early stress fracture to the neck of his femur.


These are relatively common overuse injuries in runners. Often seen in running and jumping athletes and are associated with increased volume or intensity of training workload


Common sites for a BSI include:

  • Femur
  • Tibia (Shin Splints)
  • Fibula
  • Metatarsals


Shin splints is the most common form of early stress injury. This diagnosis reflects a spectrum of medial tibial pain in early manifestations before developing into a stress fracture.


BSI can often take weeks and sometimes months to be diagnosed. An Xray is probably not the best way to investigate, as changes can take months. An MRI or a Bone Scan is more sensitive at detecting changes.


Through early diagnosis and a structured management plan, the prognosis should be a full recovery and a return to running in 6-12 weeks. If not diagnosed at the right stage and poor management, these can worsen and worst case end up needing surgery.


If you suspect a BSI or would like any help with a pain or an injury, get in touch now and speak to an expert Physiotherapist:


Call: 01245 895410

Email: hello@chelmsfordphysio.co.uk

Optimal Recovery Strategies for Marathon Runners

By Chelmsford Physio • February 25, 2026
Training for a marathon is a demanding endeavour that requires not only rigorous physical preparation but also effective recovery strategies. Recovery is crucial for improving performance, preventing injuries, and ensuring that runners can continue their training without setbacks. This blog post outlines the best forms of recovery for runners training for a marathon, supported by relevant research. 1. Active Recovery Active recovery involves engaging in low-intensity exercise following high-intensity workouts. Activities such as walking, cycling, or swimming serve to maintain blood flow and enhance recovery without adding significant strain on the body. Benefits: Active recovery can reduce muscle soreness and facilitate the removal of metabolic waste products. A study by Kimpinski et al. (2013) demonstrated that active recovery significantly decreased perceived soreness among runners. 2. Sleep and Rest Sleep is a fundamental component of recovery. During deep sleep, the body repairs itself and undergoes muscle regeneration and glycogen replenishment. Runners should prioritise adequate sleep, aiming for 7-9 hours per night, especially during peak training weeks. Benefits: Poor sleep quality has been linked to decreased performance and increased injury risk. A study by Physiology et al. (2015) indicated that athletes who prioritised sleep displayed improved performance metrics and faster recovery times. 3. Nutrition Proper nutrition plays an essential role in recovery. After long runs, it's vital to consume a balanced meal comprising carbohydrates, proteins, and fats to support muscle repair and replenish glycogen stores. Guidelines: - Post-Run Meals: Aim for a 3:1 ratio of carbohydrates to protein post-exercise. This can enhance glycogen recovery (van Loon et al., 2000). - Hydration: Maintaining adequate hydration levels is crucial for recovery. Dehydration can impair performance and increase injury risk (Brownsberger et al., 2019). 

The 5 Most Common Ski Injuries we see in our Physio Clinic

By Chelmsford Physio • February 25, 2026
The 5 Most Common Ski Injuries we see in our Physio Clinic - 500+ Google Reviews - Your Local Essex Physio - Riverside Leisure Centre - All Types of Physiotherapy

Waiting for the NHS? Could Private Physio Offer the Speed and Quality You Need?

By Chelmsford Physio • February 19, 2026
When it comes to addressing physical injuries or pain, timely access to physiotherapy can make a significant difference in recovery outcomes. While the NHS provides essential health services, long waiting times can often hinder immediate relief. This is where private physiotherapy enters the frame as a viable alternative. Here are several benefits of opting for Chelmsford Physio over waiting for NHS services. 1. Faster Access to Treatment One of the most compelling reasons to choose Chelmsford Physio is the speed of access to treatment. NHS physiotherapy services often involve lengthy waiting lists, sometimes extending weeks or even months. In contrast, private practitioners can offer prompt appointment scheduling, enabling you to start your rehabilitation without delay. For acute injuries or pain, this rapid access can be vital for effective recovery. 2. Bespoke/Individualised Treatment Plans Chelmsford Physio have more time to devote to each patient due to lower caseloads. This allows for comprehensive assessments of 45 minutes, rather than the 20 minutes session on the NHS, and the formulation of personalised treatment plans tailored to individual needs. In a private setting, you can expect a thorough evaluation that takes into account your medical history, lifestyle, and specific goals, leading to a more effective recovery plan.