Archive for the ‘Hip Pain’ Category

The Golfer’s Back

Wednesday, June 1st, 2011

As an Edinburgh osteopath, one of the most rejuvenating treatments I offer is the one hour fleximatic session to increase the flexibility of a golfer’s back. This treatment is simple and pain free because the vibrations of the G5 massage machine enable me to loosen up the deep ligaments and muscles which surround the hip joints, back, shoulders and neck.

Once you have shown me which parts of your body are too stiff to allow you to have a quality golf swing, I can use a combination of rocking techniques with the fleximatic machine. This avoids the need for painful deep elbow massage. In the past I used deep elbow massage but it is not nearly as effective at loosening off stiff joints.

This approach is particularly good for mild osteoarthritis of the hip joints along with a stiff back. If you are waiting for hip surgery, this treatment will make you more comfortable and allow you to continue playing golf.

Helen How
Registered Osteopath
14 Craighall Gardens,
Edinburgh
EH6 4RJ

0131 551 1044

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Acute Hip Pain – Trochanteric Bursitis

Saturday, March 26th, 2011

There are many causes of hip pain and often an x-ray will be required to make a diagnosis. One condition is bursitis. This can come on suddenly or gradually. Symptoms include limping, possibly due to pain travelling into your gluteal muscles and down the outside of your leg – similiar to sciatic nerve pain – or into your back.

Bursae are sacks of fluid, found in many sites around the body; typically between areas of bone or tendon and the skin. They function as a lubricant, minimising potential rubbing and friction between two tissues.

This image from the Daily Mail shows the bursa location near the hip joint. The bursa can be
friction rubbed by our strong hip muscles and ligaments. If we don't take time warm up ad stretch the gluteal muscles and ilotibial band before running, these can become tight and tense.

The bursa may become irritated after a hip replacement or if you suffer from osteoarthritis of the hip.

Treatment depends on the severity of pain. Pain relief, maybe required in strong form, will help. Resting to allow your muscles to relax is also important. Applying an ice pack (wrapped in protective cover to prevent frost bite) for up to 5 minutes every hour should give further relief.

If, however, these treatments don't help, then there may be some other underlying medical condition causing this acute pain, therefore you should see your GP.

An osteopath can give you soft tissue stretches which will relax a tight hip and leg muscles. She/he can show you stretching exercises to prevent recurring problems.

Bursitis is a preventable condition if you remember to do the appropriate stretching exercises before and after you go running or work out at the gym.

Helen How
Registered Osteopath
14 Craighall Gardens
Edinburgh EH6 4RJ
0131 551 1044

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