Every patient is different, which is why physiotherapy treatment is always tailored to the individual. Below are two examples of common conditions we see in clinic and how a personalised rehabilitation programme helped each patient return to the activities they enjoy.
Case Study 1: Neck Stiffness from Office Work
A woman in her late thirties visited our physiotherapist after experiencing increasing neck stiffness and pain over several months.
She worked at a computer for between 8 and 10 hours each day and described a particularly stressful year at work. She had previously attended the gym four times a week, but work commitments meant she had become much less active.
Assessment
Although she had full movement in her neck, turning her head to the left reproduced pain across the top of her shoulder and around her shoulder blade. Her neck and upper back muscles felt extremely tight.
During the neurological assessment there were some minor changes in sensation in parts of her left arm. However, her muscle strength and reflexes were completely normal.
These findings were reassuring, with no evidence of nerve damage or significant restriction within the joints of the neck.
Treatment
Rather than simply treating the symptoms, we looked at the underlying causes.
Her workstation was assessed and several simple adjustments were recommended, including:
- Sitting back into the chair to provide better support.
- Bringing the keyboard closer to reduce shoulder tension.
- Improving overall desk posture.
- Introducing regular movement breaks throughout the working day.
Alongside manual therapy, she was given specific mobility and strengthening exercises to improve neck function and reduce muscular tension.
Case Study 2: Achilles Tendon Pain in a Marathon Runner
A 38-year-old runner attended the clinic with pain at the back of his right heel after significantly increasing his marathon training.
His symptoms were particularly noticeable:
- First thing in the morning.
- At the start of a run.
- During the first few minutes of walking.
Although the pain eased as he warmed up, it would return after around 45 minutes, forcing him to stop running.
Assessment
Clinical examination showed:
- Pain when rising onto tiptoes.
- Tenderness over a thickened area of the Achilles tendon.
- Normal ankle movement in all directions.
The diagnosis was Achilles tendinopathy, a condition commonly caused by placing more load through the tendon than it is currently able to tolerate.
Treatment
Many people are surprised to learn that successful treatment actually involves gradually increasing the load through the tendon.
A progressive strengthening programme was introduced using calf raises, with resistance slowly increased by adding weight to a backpack as symptoms improved.
To maintain cardiovascular fitness while reducing stress on the tendon, cycling replaced running during the early stages of rehabilitation.
Running was then reintroduced gradually, always remaining within pain-free limits.
The Outcome
After approximately two months, the patient had returned to full marathon training and successfully completed his race in an impressive 3 hours and 52 minutes.
Could Physiotherapy Help You?
Whether you’re recovering from a sporting injury, experiencing persistent neck or back pain, or simply want to move more comfortably, physiotherapy can help identify the underlying cause and guide your recovery.
Our experienced physiotherapist Robin Keogh provides personalised assessment, treatment and rehabilitation plans to help you return to doing what you enjoy.
You can book online or speak to our friendly reception team on 020 8545 0965, who will be happy to arrange an appointment at a time that suits you.
