There is no doubt that tennis is a high-impact sport. The lower body is subject to numerous jarring and cutting motions during gameplay and the upper torso can be placed under a great deal of stress. This is particularly relevant to those who play on a regular basis, as chronic damage tends to build up over time and can be debilitating if not treated by a professional. Whether you are new to the game or you have been an avid aficionado for years, sports physiotherapy can benefit your tennis game. What can you expect when consulting with a professional?
A Look at Some Common (and Frustrating) Tennis Injuries
One of the most common scenarios which has plagued tennis players for decades involves injuries to the ankles. As individuals are often required to perform sudden movements and to shift their balance at a moment’s notice, the ankles and lower legs tend to take the brunt of the pressure. The same is true for the twisting motions associated with the lower back and the sudden neck movements that can lead to spasms and discomfort. Shoulder pain due to rotator cuff injury and tennis elbow are also very common problems among tennis players. Trained physiotherapists can effectively address all these injuries and scenarios.
What is the Role of Your Physiotherapist?
The main intention of a physiotherapist is to restore the natural range of motion and strength of the body through gentle manipulation alongside targeted stretching and strengthening techniques. Of course, the exact course of treatment will depend upon the nature of the injury in question. Physiotherapists will also provide proactive advice so that you can avoid similar situations that put you at risk of an injury in the future and maximise your performance.
Some common treatment options for tennis injuries include:
- An overall strengthening of the core muscles.
- Protecting the feet against physical trauma via biomechanical analysis of the feet and lower limb.
- Stretching and strengthening specific portions of the body such as the back, hamstrings, the shoulder girdle and forearm muscles.
- Avoiding exercises that may injure your back.
Your physiotherapist will be able to provide invaluable advice and guidance so that the recommendations mentioned above can produce your best results and improve your game.
Preventative Measures for Long-Term Success
The best way for you to avoid chronic tennis-related injuries is to adopt a proactive mindset. Consult a sports physiotherapist to properly diagnose and correct small issues before they become chronic conditions that require a great deal of time and effort to correct. Turramurra Sports & Spinal Physiotherapy can address any of your tennis injuries and are experienced professionals in sports physiotherapy. Contact them today on (02) 9144 1510 to discuss your treatment options.
