What it is
A sprain is a torn or twisted ligament. A strain is an overstretched or torn muscle. Tendonitis is a tendon that has swollen after an injury, usually from a sudden sharp movement or from doing the same thing over and over. The ones I see most come from skipping the warm-up, training on tired legs, or ramping up too fast. Overuse looks different depending on what you do: knee pain that is worse on stairs and squats, shin splints, or heel pain at the Achilles or under the arch of the foot.
Your first assessment
I start with how and when it happened, your general health and any medication, then I watch you move and examine the joint and the muscles around it by hand. I am also checking for anything that needs a GP or a hospital rather than me. If I see it, I tell you straight away.
What a plan usually involves
For the first two to three days it is rest, ice, compression and elevation, and no heat, alcohol or massage. After that we keep the area moving. Every plan I build combines hands-on treatment with movement-based rehabilitation and education, and I bring you back to what you were doing in steps rather than all at once: back to sport once movement is full and painless and strength is back. After your first appointment I give you a realistic estimate of how many sessions you may need.
When a doctor needs to be involved
If something about your symptoms worries you, see a GP or call 111 first.
No GP referral needed. If your assessment shows you need imaging, an injection or a specialist opinion, I refer you directly to a sports and exercise medicine doctor, and your osteopathic care continues with me.
