Treatment methods Flashcards
Name the four time phrases of stretching
Acute phase, mid phase, later phase and long term
Describe the acute phase of stretching
Within the first three days no stretching should occur, the focus should be PRICE and complete rest
Describe the mid-phase of stretching
Begins after three days and lasts up to two weeks. Heat therapy and static and passive stretching are proven to speed up recovery. There should be no bouncing or jerky movements
Describe the later phase of stretching
Further two weeks to docus on range of motion, strength and co-ordination. PNF stretches are added for passive and static techniques
What are PNF stretches?
Proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation stretches, stretching done in a pattern of 10 second stretch, 6 second isometric contraction and then 30 second stretch just beyond the range of motion to increase mobility.
What are the benefits of PNF stretching?
- Retrain and desensitise the stretch reflex
- Increase range of motion
- Decrease sensation of pain
- Strengthen connective tissue
Describe the long term phase of stretching
Active and dynamic stretching to increase range of motion and strength of connective tissue to a greater extent than before the injury occurred
Describe massage as a treatment method
A deep muscle therapy to realign connective tissue fibres and flush toxins from the area which is effective for soft tissue injuries
What is the effect of a deep tissue massage?
- Move fluids and nutrients to the damaged tissue to promote healing and removal of waste products
- Stretch tissues to release tension and pressure to improve elasticity
- Break down previous scar tissue to reduce inflexibility, pain and injury
- Generate heat, circulation and relaxation
What injuries should massages not be used on and why?
Ligament or tendon ruptures, contusions or open wounds as increased bleeding will worsen the injury
What is cold therapy (cryotherapy)?
The use of ice or clod water to reduce tissue temperature, metabolic rate and speed of nerve impulses, vasoconstriction of blood vessels, decreased blood flow, inflammation and swelling
When is cryotherapy used and for long?
Following an acute injury for periods of up to 20 minutes and reapplied every 1-3 hours
Name four methods of cryotherapy
- PRICE
- Immersion
- Cryokinetics
- Cryostretching
When using cryotherapy, when should PRICE be applied and what should be used?
PRICE should be applied as soon as possible and continued for 24-48 hours for acute soft tissue injuries. Ice packs are preferable to maintain effects of gravity
When and why is immersion in cold baths used?
10 minutes at around 10 degrees C to reduce pain and drop in performance due to exercise induced muscle damage
What is cryokinetics?
Ice application followed by rehabilitation exercises to treat ligament sprains
What is cryostretching?
A combination of cold applications and stretching to reduce muscle tension and increase flexibility to decrease pain of muscle damage
When is cold therapy used?
Acute injuries and after exercise to relieve exercise-induced muscle damage
What are the risks of cold therapy?
If used for too long = tissue and nerve damage and skin abrasions from ice exposure on skin
What is heat therapy?
Using heat to reduce muscle tension, stiffness and pain, also vasodilates blood vessels to increase healing and blood flow to damaged area
When is heat therapy used?
Chronic injuries and late stage acute injuries around 48 hours after exercise