The Australian Open is nearly here - it is over the news with the quarantine situation and presents the first major internation tournament of any sport in Australia since early last year. Throw into this, the restrictions easing once again from the most recent outbreaks, the weather turning warmer and more people getting back to doing what they love.
But, with this, we see an increase of some common injuries in the clinic. These injuries are not exclusive to tennis and can happen to anyone - from cricketers, to gardeners, to those getting back to the office and full time work again.
So - what are 3 common tennis injuries?
1. The most famouse is the tennis elbow. This is the common term for tendon based pain on the ourside of the elbow and is common in all things gripping and moving the fingers (such as typing). It results from an overuse injury to the tendons, whereby the load placed on the tendon is exceeded, causing micro tears and changes to the tendon structure. This can be very painful and limiting - but there are plenty of things that can be done to help - including physiotherapy.
A key exercise to try and prevent the injury from happening in the first place, tries to increase the strength of the tendon. This can be done using some small weights, or even household objects such as cans of food or bottles filled with water. Please click on the link below to see this exercise in action.
https://youtu.be/ZQLMz8-KpgU
2. Shoulder injuries can also be common in tennis - and are also very common in every day life. There are many different types of injuries that can happen to the shoulder due to the large range of movement, extensive muscle attachment and mechanics at the shoulder. Exercise again is important to try and strengthening the shoulder - and a common exercise can be done using a resistance band. Please click the link below for this exercise.
https://youtu.be/-VbhsYDXceA
3. The final common injury for tennis players is the ankle sprain. We see a lot of these in clinic as well and it is very important to get on to these injuries quickly. Reduced range of movement - even by 10% can cause ongoing issues. Another study found that reduced calf strength can predispose you to a range of issues - and that is why the single leg calf raise is important. For people aged between 20-29, it is expected that you should be able to do 30+ good quality raises. Even those between 80-89 should be able to do at least 10!
Here are some examples of different types of exercises: https://youtu.be/SA5mH1iwExs
There are many more injuries - but these are a couple of common ones that can happen to everyone - from the elite to the weekend warrior - and those that don't even like tennis!
If you have any of these, or any other aches or pains, we would love to help you by offering a free initial assessment. The same applies for those wanting to bullet proof thier shoulders, elbows and ankles with prehab exercises to reduce the risk of these injuries happening to you!