Devon Soutar 1/8/18 Devon Soutar 1/8/18

The reason why Leg Extension's are over-rated!

Are you doing leg extension's at the gym and wondering whether you could be doing something better?

"For most people the leg extension machine is a waste of time, and may actually be increasing knee pain"

The old faithful leg extension machine....it's been in every gym since the beginning of time, Every time I walk into the gym there is someone smashing away on this piece of equipment and I am continually puzzled as to why. What is their aim, do they know what it does, are they aware of much better options?

The leg extension machine as far as I am concerned is a machine that is designed for a bodybuilder. Someone who wants to isolate the quads, focus on specific muscle growth, purely from a looks point of view.

“When in life do we sit down and need strength to swing our leg in the air? The answer is never!"

The majority of people who visit the gym aren't bodybuilders. They aren't looking for isolated gains, they are looking for FUNCTIONAL strength. Strength they can use. Strength that mimics everyday activities or their chosen sport. It could be jumping, landing, sprinting etc. So that's exactly how we need to train our quads.....FUNCTIONALLY. Squats, lunges, step ups, box jumps etc. are all examples of functional training patterns. You are driving up from the ground! This is key!

WHY I DON'T LIKE LEG EXTENSIONS:

NO CO-CONTRACTION

In conventional squats and lunge type movements there is contraction of the quadriceps ( to extend the knee) at the same time as there is contraction of the hamstring group ( to extend the hip ) – this is termed co-contraction. In the Leg Extension exercise there is contraction of the quads with limited hamstring involvement, promoting an imbalance resulting in shearing forces across the knee.

MASSIVE PATELLA LOAD

Leg extension place huge amount of loads through the patellofemoral joint (the joint between your kneecap and thigh bone). This is commonly an area that is irritated and if you have ever had pain around the kneecap you have likely suffered yourself. The massive loads can simply make this irritation worse!

REDUCED MUSCLE INVOLVEMENT

The majority of gym goers are time poor and are better off completing exercises that involve a large number of muscle groups. Where is the glute and hamstring activation in a leg extension? This right, it's not there. The simple squat wins in terms of the number of muscle groups involved, hands down!

If you need PHYSIO GUIDANCE ON YOUR GYM PROGRAM OR NEED YOUR KNEE INJURY ASSESSED SIMPLY CONTACT THE CLINIC ON 5174 7250 or BOOK ONLINE with myself or one of our expert Physio's below. We can't wait to help get you back to your best!

AUTHOR: Devon soutar - Physiotherapist

Devon Soutar 16/7/18 Devon Soutar 16/7/18

I have a ‘meniscal tear’ in my knee - do I need surgery?

"Meniscal tears (in the knee) are common, and so is surgical repair for these tears with over 30,000 completed each year in Australia"

There are two ‘menisci’ in your knee joint, both a medial and lateral. They are C-shaped cartilage structures which sit between the two bones that make up the true knee joint and assist in shock absorption through the knee. They also assist in protecting the joint surfaces from damage and are an important aspect of joint lubrication and nutrition.

Meniscal tears can be broken into two categories: traumatic or degenerative. Simply enough, traumatic tears are due to a high-energy trauma (typically in sport), whereas degenerative tears are typically seen in the older population and are more of a ‘wear and tear’ injury.

“An MRI has shown a tear in my meniscus, must be time for a clean out surgery......."

This is one of the biggest misconceptions we see/hear in the physio world. Although in some cases surgery is necessary for the stability of the knee joint, a lot of the research is showing that there is no benefit of arthroscopic (key-hole) surgery over exercise-based treatment for meniscal tears.1

Last year, an international panel of surgeons recommended against arthroscopic surgery for the degenerative category of meniscal tears.2 This recommendation was based on a high-quality study in 2016, which found that arthroscopic surgery was no better than exercise therapy in the treatment of degenerative meniscal tears.3

What You NEED to Know:

The menisci are important structures in both the stability and healthy movement of the knee joint
Tears in the meniscus can occur in two main ways; traumatic injury OR ‘wear and tear’ over time.
Recent research is indicating that for the degenerative tears, surgical options are no better than non-surgical interventions (and also carry a level of risk). Non-surgical options include physiotherapy, with a big focus on building up the muscle groups around the knee to assist in its shock-absorbing ability.
Surgery cannot always be avoided; every person and knee joint are different. This is why it is essential to seek professional help from a physiotherapist to be guided in the right direction with your knee issues!

If you need to have you knee assessed or need some help in finding the best option for you SIMPLY CONTACT THE CLINIC ON 5174 7250 or BOOK ONLINE with myself or one of our expert Physio's below. We can't wait to help get you back to your best!

AUTHOR: Jarryd Croxford - Physiotherapist

1 Thorlund, J. B., Juhl, C. B., Ingelsrud, L. H., & Skou, S. T. (2018). Risk factors, diagnosis and non-surgical treatment for meniscal tears: evidence and recommendations: a statement paper commissioned by the Danish Society of Sports Physical Therapy (DSSF). British Journal of Sports Medicine, 52(9), 557-565.

2 Siemieniuk, R. A., Harris, I. A., Agoritsas, T., Poolman, R. W., Brignardello-Petersen, R., Van de Velde, S., ... & Helsingen, L. (2018). Arthroscopic surgery for degenerative knee arthritis and meniscal tears: a clinical practice guideline. British Journal of Sports Medicine, 52(5), 313-313.

3 Kise, N. J., Risberg, M. A., Stensrud, S., Ranstam, J., Engebretsen, L., & Roos, E. M. (2016). Exercise therapy versus arthroscopic partial meniscectomy for degenerative meniscal tear in middle aged patients: randomised controlled trial with two year follow-up. British Medical Journal, 354, i3740.

Devon Soutar 4/7/18 Devon Soutar 4/7/18

If you suffer from Shin Splints then you NEED to read this....

Do you get struck down with shin splints every time you increase your exercise load? This article will explain exactly what you NEED to know.

"The expectation that 'Shin Splints' will magically disappear after having them rubbed out is nonsense. You need to address the REAL causes or they will simply return"

Pushing through the pain of shin splints can have serious consequences. Not only may the pain get to the point where you have trouble walking, you may also develop stress fractures in the BIG weightbearing bone in the leg (tibia). These can turn into HUGE layoff's from sport ruining any plans for a successful season or an upcoming fun run!

By having them expertly assessed, shin splints can accurately be diagnosed, and the contributing factors addressed, minimising the chances of serious injury and extended recovery periods, and also significantly reduces the chances of them coming back to haunt you.

"I get extremely frustrated with the old wives tales that surround this popular condition. Most of them are complete rubbish and if strengthening exercises are not included you are wasting your time!"

If you want to get on top of your splint splints for good then here are the 3 things you need to know NOW!

1. Shin splints is really a generic term for all shin pain but the traditional shin splints most of us are talking about is better described as MEDIAL TIBIAL STRESS SYNDROME. Basically the muscles that insert into the inside of the shin bone tug away at the bone's outer coating causing pain.

2. Poor foot control is a massive contributing factor. Arch collapse and poor shock absorption in the feet makes the muscles inserting into the shin bone work too hard. By supporting the foot with an appropriate orthotic device we can let the muscles do what they are supposed to!

3. Strong butt muscles are the key! Good gluteal (butt muscle) stability and strength means the lower limb functions in better alignment. Yep, you heard it right, a strong butt helps your shins!

If you've had enough or your shin pain then you'll be glad to know that our Physiotherapists have created our:

'Shake Off Your Shinnies' Assessment

This awesome assessment includes a GaitScan Digital Foot Assessment, Video Analysis, and an expert Physio Assessment so you can be diagnosed correctly and get started with a complete shin splint rehab program before it's too late.

Simply call the clinic on 5174 7250 and schedule your
Shake Off Your Shinnies Assessment
or BOOK NOW below

Devon Soutar 4/5/17 Devon Soutar 4/5/17

KNEE INJURY PREVENTION IN NETBALL - FREE SEMINAR

PRESENTER: Devon Soutar - Physiotherapist/Director

As part of the 'FIX4THEFUTURE' series this seminar has been developed specifically for:

NETBALL COACHES, PARENTS, and PLAYERS

Netball is speeding up and the physical demands of the sport are placing young female atheles at high risk of serious injury. Knee injuries have recently taken the title of being the #1 injury in this code with the spotlight shining firmly on the dreaded Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) injury. The impact that ACL injuries can have on the career of young up and coming Netballers can be devastating and a serious lack of education is available for key stakeholders at a recreational level. Whether it's your team, your daughter, or yourself, YOU play and extremely important role in identifying risk factors and implementing injury prevention strategies.
Put simply, if you are involved in Netball this seminar is a must.

IN THIS FREE SEMINAR WE:

Discuss the EXTREMELY high rates of knee injury in Netball
Teach you about ACL injury and why it's such a BIG DEAL
Explain Netball Australia's K.N.E.E Program in detail and why you MUST implement it now!
Provide the skills and knowledge required so that YOU can identify those at risk of knee injury
Tell you about Absolute's NETBALL SCREENING and KNEE REHAB PROGRAMS
and MORE.........

DON'T MISS OUT - LIMITED SEATS AVAILABLE

RESERVE YOUR SEAT NOW - CLICK HERE

If you have any questions or enquiries regarding the seminar simply email info@absoluteim.com.au or call (03) 5174 7250.

Devon Soutar 19/9/16 Devon Soutar 19/9/16

Careers @ Absolute

Are You a the 'Dynamic' and 'Motivated' Practitioner we are looking for?

Are you the ‘Motivated’ and ‘Dynamic' Practitioner we are looking for?

Craving a 'Modern', 'Refreshing', and 'Fun' work environment?

Keen to be part of a killer 'Team' of professionals?

Are you 'Passionate' about managing and treating 'Exercise + Sports' related injuries?

ABOUT YOU

You are a fun, personable, outgoing practitioner and aspire to excel in private practice. You’re always looking to develop your clinical knowledge and skills, use world class technology, and are eager to take on new and exciting challenges. Your love for sport and exercise drives your passion to work within the sports medicine field.

Perhaps you are looking for your first role in a practice or maybe you just aren’t fulfilled with your career so far and know that there is a better opportunity waiting for you.

Things are about to change, read on..........

You’ll be our future Musculoskeletal expert, and take serious pride in your Physiotherapy career.

You’ll have great people skills, professional presentation, and fantastic communication. You’ll enjoy working as part of a dynamic team, and having a laugh in our vibrant culture.

You want to earn a fantastic base salary, and be financially rewarded as you grow your case load. You want the opportunity to become more than just a standard team member because you know that you are able to deliver so much more.

ABOUT US

We are a dedicated Exercise and Sports Medicine Centre and thrive on providing modern approaches and new technology to deliver excellent patient outcomes, in a brand new, fun, and friendly clinic environment. We are growing rapidly due to our ever expanding patient and referrer base, and our reputation as being the leaders in the sports medicine field is spreading fast.

We are committed to helping all of our team to reach their potential professionally and personally and provide all the support necessary for you to reach your goals in an exciting, fun and supportive environment. We offer an attractive salary with great performance incentives so you are rewarded for you hard work.

Whether you are a young energetic practitioner looking for an inspiring practice to leap frog years in your learning curve, or you are more experienced and want to expand your career opportunities and reach your true potential, we would love to meet you.

WHERE ARE WE?

We are located in Traralgon approx. 1.5hrs from Melbourne CBD. Not far from the city, not far from the snow, not far from the beach! Traralgon is part of the Latrobe Valley region which is the biggest rural centre South East of Melbourne with a population of over 120,000. Exercise and Sport are a huge passion in the community with an abundance of gym goers, budding sports stars, and fitness enthusiasts all seeking our expertise to keep them in the game they love!

Tell us why this role is for YOU!

Simply email your interest with a resume and cover letter to: devon@absoluteim.com.au or call Devon on (03) 5174 7250 before applications close on 1st November 2016.

Devon Soutar 15/8/16 Devon Soutar 15/8/16

Don't Jeopardise Your Performance this Final Series!

RECOVER FASTER with NORMATEC™ and DOMINATE THE FINALS!

FREE TRIAL AVAILABLE NOW!

THANKS FOR DROPPING BY.

CHANCES ARE YOU ENDED UP HERE BECAUSE OF ONE OF THESE REASONS:

1. YOUR BODY IS STRUGGLING, YOU CAN'T GET THROUGH A TRAINING SESSION LET ALONE A GAME WITHOUT KILLER MUSCLE SORENESS

2. FINALS ARE ON YOUR DOORSTEP AND YOU ARE WORRIED THAT THE LONG SEASON MAY TAKE IT TOLL AND KILL YOUR PERFORMANCE

3. YOU NEED TO BE AT YOUR VERY BEST THIS FINALS SERIES BECAUSE YOU ARE SUPER IMPORTANT TO THE TEAM'S SUCCESS AND YOU WANT TO LEAVE NO STONE UN-TURNED!

Here is what you get with a NormaTec™ Recovery System session:

World Class recovery technology used by AFL/NFL/NBA superstars to keep themselves in peak physical condition
A specialised pumping/massaging action to help flush the legs of toxins and lactic acid that develop during exercise that if left alone can kill your endurance and strength
Fresh blow flow full of goodness to help the muscles recover and repair faster, preventing injury and reducing muscle soreness
In as little as 30 minutes you can get the boost in recovery that your body is craving

You ended up on this page because you obviously need some help, so to kick start you final series we are offering you a:

FREE 30min NORMATEC™ TRIAL

Its our way of helping you to perform at your best.

APPOINTMENTS ARE FILLING FAST......SO DON'T DELAY OR YOU COULD BE PUTTING YOUR FINALS PERFORMANCE AT RISK!

*Limited Spaces Available and subject to availability *Limit 1 per person *Offer ends 24/9/16

*Please mention offer or present voucher upon booking

Devon Soutar 17/5/16 Devon Soutar 17/5/16

3 STEPS to KILLER REMEDIAL MASSAGE BENEFITS!

3 STEP APPROACH to KILLER REMEDIAL MASSAGE BENEFITS!

Thanks for dropping by.

Chances are you are here because of one of these reasons:

1. You want to get PAIN relief FAST (like yesterday FAST!)

2. You have an ongoing issue that you want to get sorted ASAP to stop it from effecting your sports, hobby, and life!

3. You just need some YOU time to get your health back on track.

No Matter what the reason we are here to help you get better and to stay that way! That's why we do what we do at ABSOLUTE!

Our Massage therapists are famous for incredible results with:

Those who spend too long at their workstation and get irritating neck and upper back pain.
Low back pain and sciatica issues that can drive you crazy
Calf, Hammy, Quad, and Glute tightness that might be limiting your sporting performance.

You ended up on this page because you obviously need our help, so for being brave and taking the first step towards getting better we want to offer you a:

1 HOUR MASSAGE FOR ONLY $65!!!!

Its our way of helping you to achieve you health goals FASTER.

In the consultation your Massage Therapist will:

Complete an assessment, locate all your tight spots, and work out what is contributing to them
Treat those tight spots and get some fresh blood flowing to ease pain, reduce tension, and promote healing
Advice you of a treatment plan that will allow you to continue to improve and keep the muscle demons from returning!

Click here to book a time online or just call 5174 7250 to speak with our friendly staff, ask any questions, and get yourself back on track. You'll be glad you did.

Devon Soutar - Practice Owner.

*Limited Spaces Available and subject to availability *Limit 1 per person *Offer ends 1/7/16

*Please mention offer upon booking

Devon Soutar 12/1/16 Devon Soutar 12/1/16

Ask Our Team - Lateral Knee Pain

Ask Out Team - Lateral Knee Pain

Q. "Hi Absolute, I am having trouble with some pain on the outside of my knee which only ever strikes me when I am about half an hour into my regular run (about 8km). Any ideas about what this might be?"

Thanks for your help. Gemma.

A. Hi Gemma, thank you for your question. A couple of things can be the cause of lateral (outside) knee pain. Things such as the lateral collateral ligament as well as the lateral meniscus (cartilage) are located in this area of the knee however with the symptoms you are describing it sounds like you may be suffering from a condition called Runner's Knee otherwise known as ITB Friction Syndrome.

ITB Friction Syndrome is a condition which is caused when the long tight band that runs down the outside of your thigh, the ITB (ilio-tibial band), rubs over a bony bump on the outside of your femur bone (lateral epicondyle). The rubbing often causes the small sack of fluid (bursa) which lies on the surface of the bone to become inflamed intern giving you the pain in this region. The more you run the more it rubs, which is why the symptoms kick in later in the run rather than early.

To effectively treat this condition we need to be assess and consider the following:

Hip and Knee Control
ITB and glute tightness
Foot function and arch support
Anti-inflammatory medications
Relative rest and unloading

Hope this helps you Gemma. Each case can be a little different and a tailored rehabilitation program is recommended. This is where we come into play to help set you up with a plan to get you back running painfree ASAP.

Devon Soutar - Physiotherapist | Managing DIrector @ Absolute

FOR THE CHANCE TO HAVE YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED SIMPLY POST IN THE COMMENTS SECTION or ON OUR FACEBOOK PAGE or EMAIL info@absoluteim.com.au

Devon Soutar 1/12/15 Devon Soutar 1/12/15

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