Back Sprains & Strains
Back Sprains & Strains
How to spot it?
Back injuries will mostly occur as a result of a wipeout and the associated twists and turns forced upon the torso, but any sudden movements have the potential to damage a poorly conditioned back.
Pain will normally be sharp at first and later develop into an ache and can be extremely restrictive in some cases.
How to treat it?
Contrary to previous beliefs, keeping the back mobile within pain-free thresholds is the key to optimising recovery time.
Hands-on treatment depends on what structures are damaged, which could be ligaments, muscles, tendons, nerves, vertebral joints or intervertebral discs.
A sports therapist may use electrotherapy, mobilisations, massage, exercises and stretches to resolve the pain.
How do I avoid it?
Core is king when it comes to protecting the back.
There is lots of information out there for how to do core work but you should be aware that it is important to know how well you activate your core muscles such as Transverse Abdominus before starting exercises that may be too difficult.
A sports therapist can assess this for you. Working on your flexibility may also reduce the risk of injury and a dynamic warm up/stretching routine is a good start.
There are lots of other common injuries and problems surfers have to contend with such as drowning, ear infections, perforated ear drums, stings and bites.
What you personally are most at risk of largely depends on your physical condition, experience and type of surfing you do.
To find out more head to fitforsportclinic.com or follow them on Twitter here.
Disclaimer: The information contained within this article is provided in good faith, and every reasonable effort is made to ensure that it is accurate and up to date. Accordingly, this information is provided ‘as is’ without warranty of any kind. FFS excludes all warranties, either express or implied. In no event shall FFS be liable for any damage arising, directly or indirectly, from the use of the information contained within this article including damages arising from inaccuracies, omissions or errors.
Any person relying on any of the information contained within this article or making any use of the information contained herein, shall do
so at his/her own risk. FFS recommends that any sporting injury should be properly assessed by a fully qualified Sports Therapist. 05/09/11
Nick Gardiner