Chelmsford Physio Blog

Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV) is a condition that affects numerous individuals, causing brief but intense episodes of dizziness and vertigo. This vertigo is triggered by certain changes in the position of the head. It's a common condition, especially amongst adults, but what exactly is it and how can physiotherapy help manage its symptoms?

What is the Epleys Manoeuvre? The Epley manoeuvre, also known as the canalith repositioning procedure, is a treatment for benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV). BPPV is a common cause of vertigo, which is a feeling of dizziness or spinning. It is caused by small crystals that break off from the inner ear and get stuck in the semicircular canals. These crystals can cause the canals to move incorrectly, which sends false signals to the brain about balance. The Epleys manoeuvre is a series of head movements that are designed to dislodge the crystals from the semicircular canals and return them to their normal position. The manoeuvre is usually performed by a doctor or physical therapist, but it can also be done at home.

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.

You've put in the miles, sacrificed your lie-ins and bought the lycra, now marathon and half marathon day is on the horizon. Make sure you're in top shape at the start line with our DOs and DON’Ts for final marathon preparation:

Running is a highly popular and beneficial form of exercise, but it also carries the risk of various injuries. Among these, stress fractures are a common concern for runners. Stress fractures are small cracks in the bone that develop due to repetitive stress and overuse. In this blog post, we will delve into the causes, symptoms, treatment, and prevention of stress fractures in runners, drawing upon research from Harvard University.  1. Understanding Stress Fractures: Stress fractures occur when the repetitive force applied to a bone overwhelms its ability to repair itself. They typically develop in weight-bearing bones, such as the tibia (shinbone), metatarsals (foot bones), and femur (thigh bone). Runners are particularly susceptible to stress fractures due to the repetitive impact forces exerted on their lower extremities during training. According to researchers, the most common risk factors identified for stress fractures in runners include sudden increases in training volume or intensity, improper footwear, poor running form, nutritional deficiencies, and underlying bone density issues. 2. Recognising Symptoms and Seeking Treatment: Early detection of stress fractures is crucial to prevent further damage and promote optimal healing. The symptoms of a stress fracture may include localised pain that worsens with activity and diminishes with rest, swelling, tenderness, and potentially a noticeable limp. It is highly recommend to seek consultation with a specialist, if a stress fracture is suspected. Diagnosis typically involves a thorough physical examination, imaging tests (e.g., X-rays, MRI), and sometimes bone scans to confirm the presence and location of the fracture. Treatment of stress fractures often involves a period of rest from running and other high-impact activities. It is important to implement a gradual return-to-running program under the guidance of a specialist. Other treatment modalities may include pain management, immobilisation with a cast or walking boot, physiotherapy, and addressing any underlying factors contributing to the fracture (e.g., correcting running technique, improving bone health).

Preparing for a marathon is a physically and mentally demanding task. As the race day approaches, runners often implement a strategic training technique known as tapering. Tapering involves reducing the training load and allowing the body to recover in the weeks leading up to the marathon. But why do we taper? In this blog post, we will explore the scientific rationale behind tapering and why it is an helpful component of marathon preparation 1. Enhancing Physical Recovery: Tapering provides an opportunity for the body to recover and repair. Intense marathon training places considerable stress on the musculoskeletal system, causing microscopic damage to muscles, tendons, and other connective tissues. By tapering, runners allow these tissues to heal and adapt, reducing the risk of injury and improving overall performance. Tapering can help restore glycogen stores in muscles, improve muscle strength, and increase the concentration of enzymes involved in energy production. These physiological changes contribute to enhanced athletic performance on race day. 

In recent years, ultrasound-guided injections have emerged as a beacon of hope for those enduring chronic pain and certain musculoskeletal conditions. However, myths and misconceptions often cloud these treatments' true nature and benefits . This article aims to demystify ultrasound-guided injections, shedding light on what patients can genuinely expect from the procedure. By providing clarity, we hope to alleviate concerns and empower individuals to make informed decisions regarding their health and well-being.

Ultrasound-guided injections are a medical procedure where an ultrasound machine is used to guide the placement of a needle and injection substance into a specific area of the body. The technique involves the use of high-frequency sound waves that create images of the internal structures of the body, allowing healthcare professionals to visualize the target area in real time. This enables them to accurately identify the optimal location for the injection and confirm the correct placement of the needle and the injection substance. Ultrasound-guided injections have become increasingly popular in recent years as they offer several advantages over traditional blind/surface-marked injections.

Shin splints, also known as medial tibial stress syndrome, is a common condition that affects runners and other athletes who engage in high-impact activities. It's characterised by pain along the inside of the shin bone, and can be caused by a number of factors, including overuse, poor footwear, and muscle imbalances. Fortunately, there are several exercises that can help alleviate the pain and prevent further injury. Here are the three of the best exercises for shin splints: 1. Toe Raises Toe raises are a simple yet effective exercise for strengthening the muscles in the front of the lower leg, which can help reduce the strain on the shinbone. To perform toe raises, stand with your feet hip-width apart and slowly raise up onto the balls of your feet, then lower back down. Aim for three sets of 15 repetitions, gradually increasing the number of sets as your strength improves.