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04 Aug

Are your worries all perched on a pillow? And we don’t mean figuratively, but literally, are your worries all about THE PILLOW? Well, you are not in as uncommon a dilemma as you may think. Physiotherapists frequently get queries about pillow-related problems.

Sleeping on the wrong pillow, or one that is too worn out, not only leads to headaches, backaches, and neck cramps but also prevents you from getting a good night’s sleep. Lack of proper sleep can lead to many serious health issues, like obesity, heart disease, diabetes, etc.

It is imperative that you choose the right pillow for yourself but the kind of pillow you should pick will depend on your own unique needs as well. A physiotherapist is the best person to tell you exactly what you need. However, here are a few things that you can keep in mind while making a choice –

  • Your usual sleeping position
  • The shape and size of your head, neck and back
  • Desired softness/firmness of the pillow
  • Any neck pain, or backache you may have
  • And your budget

Physiotherapy Downtown Toronto

Also read, Physiotherapy Clinic in Mississauga
There are a plethora of pillows in the market – cotton, polyester, feather, down, memory foam etc. However, these don’t cater to specific support or pain needs. If you have been injured, or have a particular condition, you will need a pillow that caters best to not just your problem, but also the stage that you are in. There are three main stages –

  • Accommodation
  • Correction
  • Maintenance

For each of these three stages, you will need a specific kind of pillow.

Accommodation Stage:

Specialty pillows that are designed for the ‘Accommodation’ stage, are pillows that bring in comfort and ease by providing support and stabilizing the existing ailment or disorder. Such pillows are often called Displacement pillows and are often recommended by physiotherapists for short-term pain relief after an injury.

Correction Stage:

The next stage of an issue or injury is ‘Correction’. At this stage, a doctor or physiotherapist attempts to find a remedy for the cause of the problem, and thereby correct it. Pillows recommended in this stage are often designed to provide support, and sometimes to even change the sleeping position of the injured or ailing person. There are various ‘Supportive’ pillows to meet different support levels, firmness and neck lobe size needs of different patients. There are also specialized ‘Corrective’ pillows, which can reduce headaches, neck pain, joint pain, and whiplash discomfort and can even improve nerve function. A physiotherapist can tell you what is the ideal Supportive or Corrective pillow you need, based on your health and body needs.
 Also read, Physiotherapy Clinic Oakville

Maintenance Stage:

Pillows for the last stage, ‘Maintenance’, help to promote good health by returning and keeping the body in its natural alignment. At this stage maintaining the normal curvature of the neck and spine is of utmost importance. While the normal curvature of one person’s neck and spine may differ from another, there are some general guidelines that a physiotherapist can jot down to help you understand your needs better. Comfort and support are the most important of these.

There are also Aqua pillows, which perform all the 3 functions of a pillow:

  1. Accommodation: Since water is fluid, a person gets customized accommodation that happens in real time, as the individual changes their position on the pillow.
  1. Correction: The volume of water determines the firmness and density of the pillow, which means different amounts of water can be utilized to help correct the neck position of different people in different stages of healing.
  1. Maintenance: Since the volume of water remains constant until changed manually, it helps maintain the neck posture at all times while sleeping.

A lot of people buy a pillow, try it for a few nights, and then feel it isn’t right for them. Sometimes the pillows can be returned, but more often, people end up having a collection of pillows that they have hardly ever used. An Aqua pillow is a huge savior in this aspect, as it can be customized for each individual! The water levels can be modified to best suit the clinical condition, neck shape, and size, and preferred sleeping position of the buyer.

There are also specially designed Orthopaedic pillows for specific conditions like arthritis, fractures, and slip discs. A physiotherapist can enlighten you more about these.

Seek the help of our professionals at any of our locations in Etobicoke, Oakville, North York, Mississauga & Downtown Toronto, and say goodbye to your pillow problems!

Proper posture and support are essential for preventing discomfort and maintaining spinal health. For those seeking professional physiotherapy services to address posture-related issues, consider visiting clinics in physiotherapy Etobicoke, Oakville, North York, Toronto, Lawrence Park, Queens Quay, Erin Mills, Mississauga, and Liberty Village. These clinics offer expert care and tailored treatment plans to help you improve your posture and overall well-being.

18 Jul

Who doesn’t want to stay flexible, especially as they age? Well, stretching is one very good way to stay flexible! According to the American College of Sports Medicine, it’s good to stretch all the major muscle groups at least two times a week. Stretching is an integral part of physiotherapy, and a physiotherapist is the perfect person to guide you on how to stretch. Physiotherapists recommend stretching regularly, as it keeps one’s hips and hamstrings flexible later in life, which is very important for easy movement in old age.

Apart from this stretching has many other benefits:

  • It increases muscle flexibility
  • It improves posture
  • It also improves performance in sports & other activities
  • It provides relief from stress
  • It helps prevent injuries
  • It prevents Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness or DOMS, which is the soreness and pain one suffers a few hours to a few days after hectic exercise.

Also read, Physiotherapy Etobicoke

Physiotherapy Downtown Toronto
The first question that many wonder about, is what body parts should one stretch.
In physiotherapy, stretching the following body parts is considered essential –

  • Neck
  • Jaw
  • Upper Back
  • Shoulders
  • Triceps
  • Biceps
  • Wrists
  • Quadriceps
  • Calves
  • Hamstrings
  • Hips
  • Groin

The next thing to take into consideration is if there is the right amount of time to stretch. While there is no particular amount of time that physiotherapists suggest you stretch, recent studies show that 3 sets of 30-second stretches, 5 days per week for 4 weeks help to strengthen hamstring muscles greatly.
Also read, Physiotherapy Treatment Oakville

There are many kinds of Stretching that physiotherapists recommend.

Stretching a muscle to its full extent and holding it for 15 to 30 is known as the Static Stretch. You can exceed this time frame a bit but don’t stretch until it hurts, as you can end up doing more damage to your muscles than good by over stretching. However, don’t do Static Stretches before a run or sprint, as this can slow down your speed by tiring out the muscles.
Before warming up for a run or other sports, doing Dynamic Stretches is more suitable. Dynamic Stretches are stretches that you do, as you are moving, and hence are called dynamic.
Another effective way of stretching, often used in physiotherapy, is Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation (PNF) Stretching.
PNF stretching is an advanced type of stretching wherein the targeted muscle or muscle group, is stretched, contracted, and finally relaxed. This process is repeated at least 2 to 4 times before moving on to the next muscle group. PNF stretching helps to elongate one’s muscles and was first developed as a muscle therapy by athletes, but is now often used in physiotherapy as a means of increasing flexibility.
Stretching can be used as a preventative precaution, but also to help correct and recover from more serious issues. A physiotherapist can guide you more regarding the stretching exercises that will be best suited to your needs. So visit any of our locations in Etobicoke, Oakville, North York, Mississauga & Toronto, and find out how you can get the most out of stretching!

Stretching with physiotherapy can help improve flexibility, prevent injuries, and enhance overall physical performance. If you’re looking for professional physiotherapy services to guide you in safe and effective stretching techniques, there are clinics in physiotherapy Etobicoke, Oakville, North York, Toronto, Lawrence Park, Queens Quay, Erin Mills, Mississauga, and Liberty Village. These clinics provide expert care and personalized treatment plans to help you achieve your mobility and wellness goals.

21 Jun

Summer is here, and with the sun on one’s face and a cool breeze, everyone feels like going out and enjoying some fresh air. Be it an early morning run or a quick swim, a game of tennis with your buddies or you just dribbling the ball all by yourself at the basketball court; this is the season when even the lazy ones find some energy to be active. Kids in particular love to go out and play in the summers. But with an active lifestyle, or an energetic kid, there is always the chance of sports-related injuries or foot fatigue.
Maybe you twisted your ankle while playing tennis? Or did your kid get hurt while playing football? Maybe too much running is affecting your feet? Or your friend is having pain in his or her legs post-cycling?
Also read, Physiotherapy Clinic in Etobicoke 

Orthotics might just be the answer to your woes!

Orthotics Downtown Toronto

The type of Orthotics recommended to you will depend on not just your ailment or injury, but the shape of your feet as well.  A physiotherapist can tell you what kind of orthotics you need, by evaluating your injury and the shape of your feet.

The most popular kind of Orthotics include:

  • Casual Orthotics – These are inserts or pads that can be worn with regular shoes.
  • Custom Orthotics – these are inserts that are specially designed, keeping the shape of your feet and your particular needs in mind.
  • Sports Orthotics – these are inserts or pads that help to absorb shock while doing high-impact activities. Be it running, jogging, cycling, or playing a sport. There are even specialized Orthotics that slip easily into athletic shoes for professional athletes.
  • Dress Orthotics – These are inserts that can be put into heels and other fashionable shoes, and are particularly made for women.
  • Accommodative Footwear – this refers to special footwear, which can accommodate the Orthotics.

Also read, Physiotherapy Oakville
If you don’t have a sports injury but are just very active, orthotics can still come to your aid. But do seek your doctor’s advice before using any kind of orthotics.
At Triangle Physiotherapy our health professionals cater to your needs and specifications. With the help of our professionals, you can figure out what is the best solution for you, based on your activities and the needs of your feet. So visit any of our locations in Etobicoke, Oakville, North York, Mississauga & Downtown Toronto, to stay active with Orthotics!

Orthotics can be crucial for active individuals looking to prevent injuries and enhance performance. If you need professional physiotherapy services to complement your orthotic treatment, there are clinics in physiotherapy Etobicoke, Oakville, North York, Toronto, Lawrence Park, Queens Quay, Erin Mills, Mississauga, and Liberty Village. These locations offer expert care and personalized treatment plans to support your active lifestyle and overall foot health.

18 Jun

Wearing heels may be a fashion statement for some, but for others, it is a work necessity.
Studies have shown that:

  • 72% of women wear high heels at some point or the other
  • 50% of them wear them at parties
  • 39% of them wear them every day
  • And 31% of them wear them to work

But wearing heels for a prolonged period of time can lead to multiple issues. So what are the “heel issues” that affect most women? And how can you deal with them?

Physiotherapy Mississauga
Also read, Physiotherapy Mississauga

Do your toes hurt and your feet feel numb?

You might have Morton’s Neuroma, commonly known as forefoot pain. People with this ailment most often complain of pain between the 3rd and the 4th toe.  Pain between the 2nd and the 3rd toe is less common but also known to happen. This ailment occurs when the nerves between the toes get irritated and inflamed.
Another common issue with wearing high heels is back pain. Constantly wearing very high heels puts stress on the thighs and hip flexors, which in turn puts more pressure on the spine and causes it to curve. The curving of the spine then leads to back pain.
Pain in the knee joints is also an issue that occurs if you wear high heels too often. High heels put too much pressure on knee joints and can create an imbalance in your leg alignment, leading to pain and other issues of the knee joint.
Also read, Physiotherapy Treatment in Etobicoke
Ditching the heels completely will obviously be the best solution. But if you can’t do that, here are some things that you can do –

  • Wear heels that are 2 inches or less in height, this will help take off the pressure from your spine and cause less curving.
  • If you absolutely must wear very high heels (4 to 6 inches high) one day, wear low to moderate heels the next day. This way your knee joints, spine and thigh muscles will get a break from undue stress.
  • If you have forefoot pain, try wearing shoes that are wider around the toes – a shoe with a round or square shape in front is a better choice than a pointy-toed shoe.
  • Opt for shoes that have leather insoles so your feet have better grip. Slippery heels cause even more damage to your posture.
  • Wear heels for shorter periods of time. The longer you wear high heels, the more damage you cause to your knees and spine.
  • Ditch those heels if you are in too much pain. It is better to sit at your desk without your heels on, rather than cringe with pain for the entire day.
  • And finally, visit a physiotherapist and do some simple exercises that he or she may suggest to relieve you of your feet, back or knee pain caused by high heels.

At Triangle Physiotherapy our professionals can help you figure out what will be the ideal solution for your ailment. So visit any of our 8 locations of Triangle Physiotherapy clinics – Etobicoke, Oakville, Mississauga, North York, Toronto to heal the issues caused by them heels!

Healing heel pain requires a combination of effective treatments, including physiotherapy to address underlying issues and promote recovery. For professional physiotherapy services to help with heel pain, there are clinics in physiotherapy Etobicoke, Oakville, North York, Toronto, Lawrence Park, Queens Quay, Erin Mills, Mississauga, and Liberty Village. These locations offer specialized care and customized treatment plans to support your journey to pain-free mobility.

27 Apr

What are orthotics?
Orthotics are custom-made inserts that are worn inside your shoe to control abnormal foot function.
Orthotics solve a number of biomechanically related problems, for example, ankle and knee pain, pelvis, hip, and spinal pain. This is achieved by preventing misalignment of the foot, which significantly alters the way in which the bones move within their joints.
Also read, Physiotherapy Rehab Clinic in Mississauga

Physiotherapist in Toronto

How are custom orthotics made?

The process starts with the chiropodist, chiropractor, or physiotherapist conducting a Biomechanical Gait analysis on a tablet that records your gait pattern & explaining the results to you. The chiropodist, chiropractor, or physiotherapist may also take a 3D cast of your feet in a foam box.

The orthotics are then custom-manufactured in the lab based on your foot impressions & scan.

Once the orthotics are made & delivered to the clinic, the chiropodist, chiropractor or physiotherapist will have you come in for a fitting & explain to you the wear & care of the orthotics.

Also read, Physiotherapy Clinic in Etobicoke

Why choose Triangle Physiotherapy for your custom orthotics?

  • State-of-the-art technology
  • Experienced chiropodists, chiropractors or physiotherapists trained in Biomechanical Assessments & Orthotic Prescription
  • Lifetime warranty on the orthotics*
  • Assistance with sending your claims to your insurance.

Click HERE to book an appointment with a chiropodist at one of our eight locations.

Orthotics are essential for providing support, alignment, and pain relief for various foot and lower limb conditions. If you are looking for professional physiotherapy services to complement your orthotic treatment, there are clinics in physiotherapy Etobicoke, Oakville, North York, Toronto, Lawrence Park, Queens Quay, Erin Mills, Mississauga, and Liberty Village. These locations offer specialized care and personalized treatment plans to help you achieve optimal foot health and mobility.

27 Apr

Pacifying the Pain – All about Patella Tendon Tears

Physiotherapy Etobicoke
Despite it being named a “Tendon”, the patella tendon is both a ligament and a tendon. It connects to two different bones, the patella and the tibia. The patella tendon works in unison with the quadricep muscles and quadriceps tendons allowing them to straighten the knee. The tear within the patella tendon is either partial or complete and can be a disabling injury:

  • Partial tear- More frayed and not complete, (think of a rope that is not completely torn)
  • Complete Tear- The tissue is torn into two complete pieces

There are numerous causes that can contribute to the tear of a patella tendon:

  • Falls
  • Jumping
  • Patellar tendonitis- inflammation of the patellar tendon thus weakening the tendon, causing small tears.
  • Chronic disease – Chronic renal failure, rheumatoid arthritis, Diabetes mellitus & metabolic disease, etc.
  • Infection
  • Surgery

Also read, Best Physiotherapy Clinic Mississauga
Most patients have stated that they had felt a popping or tearing sensation when the patella tendon has torn. Additional symptoms recorded were:

  • Indentation at the spot where the patella tendon is located
  • Bruising
  • Tenderness
  • Cramping
  • Shift of the kneecap to thigh, due to un-attachment
  • Difficulty walking due to weakness in the knee

Also read, Physiotherapy Oakville
Once the initial pain and swelling has subsided, physiotherapy treatments can be started. Physiotherapy can restore strength and range of motion. Depending on the intensity of the injury, a brace may need to be worn. While the brace is worn, straight leg exercises are often prescribed to strengthen the quadriceps muscles. As the patellar tendon heals, eventually the brace may be removed, allowing the patient to move freely with a greater range of motion, with more exercises being put into use as healing progresses.
Recovery from patellar tendon tears is possible, and most individuals are able to return to work and regular activities. Even though patients may feel stiffness in the region after recovery, most regain nearly equal motion compared to the uninjured leg. At Triangle Physiotherapy, we are able to dispense custom-fit braces to aid in the recovery of patellar tendon tears. For more information visit our custom braces page at: https://www.trianglephysiotherapy.com/services/custom-bracing

Recovering from a patella tendon tear requires a comprehensive approach, including effective physiotherapy to restore strength and mobility. If you’re seeking professional physiotherapy services for tendon injuries, there are clinics in physiotherapy Etobicoke, Oakville, North York, Toronto, Lawrence Park, Queens Quay, Erin Mills, Mississauga, and Liberty Village. These locations offer expert care and customized treatment plans to help you recover fully and get back to your active lifestyle.

16 Mar

What exactly are shin splints? Are they treatable?

Shin splints are a condition characterized by damage and inflammation of the connective tissue joining muscles to the inner shin bone (tibia). Shin splints are known by many different names such as: Medial Tibial Tenoperiostitus, MTSS, Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome, Tenoperiostitus of the Shin, Inflammatory Shin Pain, Traction Periostitis, and Posterior Shin Splint Syndrome.

Several muscles lie at the back of the lower leg, and are collectively known as the calf muscles. The tibialis posterior, flexor digitorum longus, flexor hallicus, and soleus are muscles that lie deep within the calf and attach to the inner border of the tibia. Connective tissues are responsible for attaching these muscles to the tibia known as the tenoperiosteum. Every time the calf contracts, it pulls on the tenoperiosteum. When the tension becomes forced too much or is repeated frequently, the damage is caused to the tenoperiosteum. The results are inflammation and pain. Shin splints can also occur in combination with other pathologies that cause shin pain such as compartment syndrome and tibial stress fractures.
Patients who suffer from shin splints experience pain along the inner border of the shin. In other cases, the patient may experience an ache or stiffness along the inner aspect of the shin that increases with rest (typically and night or first thing in the morning). Areas of muscle tightness, thickening, or lumps may also be felt in the same area of pain.

Physiotherapy Downtown Toronto

There are several factors that predispose patients to shin splints:

• Excessive training or exercise
• Poor foot posture (especially in patients with flat feet)
• Inappropriate footwear
• Inadequate warm-up• Training on hard or inappropriate surfaces
• Muscle weakness (especially in calve muscles)
• Tightness in specific joints (such as ankle)
• Tightness in specific muscles (calves especially)
• Poor lower limb biomechanics
• Poor training techniques or methods
• Leg length differences
• Poor balance
• Being overweight
• Deconditioning
• Poor core stability
Also read, Physiotherapy Clinic in Oakville

Physiotherapy treatment for patients with shin splints is vital to speed up the healing process. Physiotherapy will ensure the most optimal outcome and reduce the likelihood of recurrence. Treatment may comprise of the following:

  • Deep tissue massage
  • Joint mobilization
  • Dry needling
  • Electrotherapy
  • PNF stretches
  • Arch support taping
  • The use of orthotics or shock-absorbing insoles
  • Crutches
  • Biomechanical correction
  • Ice or heat treatment
  • Exercises to improve flexibility, balance, strength, and core stability
  • Activity modification advice
  • Anti-inflammatory advice
  • Footwear advice
  • Weight loss advice where appropriate

Also read, Physiotherapy Clinic in Mississauga
If you happen to suffer from shin splints and you are looking for a way to relieve pain, stress, and improve overall health, try adding physical therapy to a routine wellness plan. Our physiotherapists at Triangle Physiotherapy can be a powerful ally when combating daily stress, muscle pain, and general health issues when it comes to shin splints. Not only does physical therapy relieve pain, increase energy levels, and improve overall physical and mental performance, it prevents further injuries.

Click HERE to book an appointment with a physiotherapist at one of our eight locations.

Physiotherapy can play a crucial role in treating and preventing shin splints by addressing muscle imbalances and improving biomechanics. If you’re looking for professional physiotherapy services to help manage shin splints, there are clinics in physiotherapy Etobicoke, Oakville, North York, Toronto, Lawrence Park, Queens Quay, Erin Mills, Mississauga, and Liberty Village. These clinics offer expert care and tailored treatment plans to support your recovery and enhance your running or athletic performance.

20 Jan

Patellar tendinopathy aka, Jumpers Knee, (also known as patellar tendonitis, and tendonitis) is an overuse injury affecting the knee. The patella tendon is a short but very wide tendon that runs from the patella (kneecap) to the top of the tibia. It works with the muscles at the front of the thigh to extend the knee so it can perform physical acts like kicking, running, and jumping.  Due to these elements, the patellar tendon has to absorb a lot of this loading and as a result, is prone to injury in runners and jumpers. Unlike many running injuries, patellar tendonitis is somewhat more common in men than in women.
The stress on the patellar tendon results in small tears, which the body attempts to repair, but as the injury multiplies, it causes pain from inflammation and weakening of the tendon. When this tendon damage persists for more than a few weeks, it is called, “tendinopathy”.

Physiotherapy Downtown Toronto
Initial symptoms of patellar tendonitis can be:

  • Anterior knee pain over the patella tendon
  • Pain increased from jumping, landing or running activity, and on occasion prolonged sitting
  • Onset of pain can be gradual and commonly relates to an increase in sports activities
  • Localised tenderness over the patella tendon
  • The tendon feeling stiff, mostly first thing in the morning
  • The affected tendon may appear thickened in comparison to the unaffected side

Also read, Physiotherapy Clinic in Oakville

Typically, tendon injuries occur in three areas:

  • Musculotendinous junction (where the tendon joins the muscle)
  • Mid-tendon (non-insertional tendinopathy)
  • Tendon insertion (eg. Into the bone)

If you try to work through your pain, ignoring your body’s warning signs, you could cause increasingly larger tears in the patellar tendon.
Knee pain and reduced function can persist if the problem is not addressed , which can progress to more serious patellar tendinopathy.

Treatment of Jumpers Knee

Treatment of this condition has two objectives: to reduce inflammation and to allow the tendon to heal. Rest is a must when the knee is painful and swollen. Avoid stair climbing and jumping sports. Keep your knee straight while sitting, and avoid squatting.
Icing the knee for twenty minutes two to three times a day is recommended, especially after any sporting activities. Exercises can also be used to stretch and balance the thigh muscles.
It is advisable, however, to contact a physical therapist & approach proper physical therapy before you attempt any of these remedies, to avoid any further damage.
Happy Healing!

Click HERE to book an appointment with a physiotherapist at one of our eight locations.

Jumper’s knee can be a persistent issue for athletes, but physiotherapy can help by strengthening the knee, improving flexibility, and reducing pain. If you’re looking for professional physiotherapy services to treat jumper’s knee, consider clinics in physiotherapy Etobicoke, Oakville, North York, Toronto, Lawrence Park, Queens Quay, Erin Mills, Mississauga, and Liberty Village. These locations provide expert care and customized treatment plans to help you recover and return to your sport stronger than ever.

12 Jan

There are many forms of fractures, each causing a dilemma in our lives and requiring the help of a physiotherapist in order to heal safely and adequately. One of the most common types of fractures seen in sports medicine today is called a “hairline” or “stress” fracture. Hairline fractures are caused by repetitive strain and excess training. Hairline fractures are minute cracks on the bones, which can become severe if not immediately treated.  The main causes of hairline fractures are:

  • Traumatic Incidents
  • Repetitive Stress
  • Pathological

Treatment for fractures Toronto

Also read, Physiotherapy Clinic in Mississauga

Causes of Fractures

Basically, hairline fractures are caused by the depressed response of the bone with the ground reaction forces that are applied to the bones during certain activities such as: running, jumping, or walking. Symptoms may include pain and tenderness to the affected bone. Repetitive stress or a sudden fall or strike to the area can also cause hairline fractures.

Treatment of Fractures

The best way to treat a hairline fracture is to refrain from any activities that can aggravate the injury. Recovery time can span from two weeks to a month and a half. Once the bone is healed from its minute cracks, you can gradually resume normal activities. In extreme circumstances, the affected area must be put at rest and must be immobilized by casting or bracing. The stages of healing a fracture through physiotherapy are as follows:

  • Muscle Assessment
  • Joint Mobilisation
  • Massage Therapy
  • Heat and Electro Therapy
  • Gait Education

Also read, Physiotherapy Oakville
Shoe inserts like supportive orthotics and walking crutches may also be recommended by your physiotherapist. Treatment through physiotherapy is advised through strengthening exercises that are non-weight bearing like swimming. Luckily, hairline fractures rarely need surgery because they can easily be mended with just two weeks of rest. However, the injury can worsen if not given the proper medical attention.
If you happen to suffer from a hairline fracture and you are looking for a way to relieve pain, and recover from an injury, adding physiotherapy to a routine wellness plan can maximize recovery time and optimize your healing process. Our physiotherapists at Triangle Physiotherapy can be a powerful ally when combating daily stress, muscle pain, and general health issues regarding hairline fractures. Not only does physiotherapy relieve pain, increase energy levels, and improve overall physical and mental performance, it prevents further injuries.

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Physiotherapy Etobicoke | Physiotherapy Oakville | Physiotherapy North York | Physiotherapy Toronto | Physiotherapy Lawrence Park | Physiotherapy Mississauga | Physiotherapy Queens Quay | Physiotherapy Mississauga Erin Mills | Physiotherapy Liberty Village

The experienced, professional physiotherapists at Triangle Physiotherapy are available at eight convenient locations:

Recovering from a hairline fracture requires careful management and effective physiotherapy to restore strength and prevent further injury. If you are seeking professional physiotherapy services to support your recovery, there are clinics in physiotherapy Etobicoke, Oakville, North York, Toronto, Lawrence Park, Queens Quay, Erin Mills, Mississauga, and Liberty Village. These locations offer specialized care and personalized treatment plans to help you heal properly and regain full function.

15 Dec

A knee sprain is an injury of the ligaments; tough bands of fibrous tissue that connect the bones of the upper and lower leg at the knee joint. One of the main forms of knee sprain is in the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). The ACL and the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) bridge the inside of the knee joint, forming an, “X” pattern that stabilizes the knee against front-to-back and back-to-front forces.

There are certain movements in the knee that cause a sprain in the ACL such as:

  • a sudden stop;
  • a twist,
  • pivot, or change in direction at the joint;
  • extreme over-straightening (hyperextension);
  • or a direct impact to the outside of the knee or lower leg.

These injuries are quite common among athletes in sports such as football, basketball, soccer, rugby, wrestling, gymnastics, and skiing.

Physiotherapist in Downtown Toronto
It is suggested that when one knee ligament suffers a sprain, there is a good chance that the other parts of the knee may also be injured, most commonly the ACL.  Knee sprains are very common. ACL sprains tend to cause more significant symptoms compared to MCL injuries.

The most frequent signs of an ACL sprain are:

  • A pop heard or felt inside your knee at the time of injury
  • Significant knee swelling within a few hours after injury
  • Severe knee pain that prevents you from continued participation in your sport
  • Black-and-blue discoloration around the knee
  • Knee instability- the feeling that your knee will buckle or give out

Treatment of an ACL Sprain

A physiotherapist will examine both knees, comparing the injured knee to the uninjured one. During this exam, the physiotherapist will check your injured knee for signs of swelling, deformity, tenderness, fluid inside the knee joint, and discoloration. If the patient does not have too much pain and swelling, a physiotherapist will then evaluate the knee’s range of motion and will pull against the ligaments to check their strength. During the exam, the patient will have to bend their knee and the physiotherapist will gently pull forward or push backward on their lower leg where it meets the knee.
Based on the results of the patient’s exam, diagnostic tests may need to be performed to further evaluate the condition of the patient’s knee. These tests may include standard X-rays to check for ligament separation from bone or fracture. Tests may also include an MRI scan or a camera–guided knee surgery (arthroscopy). The expected duration of recovery depends on the severity of the patient’s knee sprain, their rehabilitation program, and what type of sports the patients play. In general, milder sprains heal within 2-4 weeks, whereas other types may take 4-12 months.

There are many ways of preventing ACL knee sprain, to help sports related injuries you can:

  • Warm up and stretch before participating in athletic activities
  • Do exercises that strengthen the leg muscles around the knee, especially the quadriceps.
  • Avoid sudden increases in the intensity of a training program. Do not push too hard or too fast. Gradually increase intensity.
  • Wear comfortable, supportive shoes that fit your feet and fit your sport

About 90% of people with ACL injuries can expect a full recovery after proper treatment and a good physical therapy program. As a long-term complication, some patients who suffered from an ACL sprain eventually develop pain from osteoarthritis in the joint where the knee has been injured. This symptom may not become present until 15 to 20 years after the initial knee injury.
Call a professional when:

  • Knee becomes very painful or swollen
  • Cannot bear weight
  • Feels as if it will buckle or give out.

Click HERE to book an appointment with a physiotherapist at one of our eight locations.

Recovering from an ACL sprain involves targeted physiotherapy to restore knee stability, strength, and mobility. If you need professional physiotherapy services for ACL rehabilitation, consider clinics in physiotherapy Etobicoke, Oakville, North York, Toronto, Lawrence Park, Queens Quay, Erin Mills, Mississauga, and Liberty Village. These clinics provide expert care and customized treatment plans to help you recover fully and return to your active lifestyle.