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“Walking the walk (or sitting the sit!) One physio’s lockdown experience.”

It’s 7.30am on a Sunday morning, day 2 of my 4 x 12 hour shifts…post-furlough I’ve needed to find myself some work that will keep me from going stir-crazy at home- working at the coal face back in hospital was not an option for me as a single parent- so taking up a position with Unipart, who look after the logistics for the NHS’s PPE supply chain, seemed to be a good second option.

10 weeks in now, and it’s been an eye opening experience- on all fronts- from both the  physical and mental perspective! I’m hoping that with my physio hat on, I can offer some thoughts that might help you cope with the ups and downs of working life- especially if your job involves a chair/ desk/ computer screen.

The first, and probably the most fundamental challenge I’ve faced, is that my pre-COVID working lifestyle couldn’t be any different from what I am currently doing. Most physios will tell you that they will invest just as much (if not more…) in a comfy pair of trainers for work, than they would on a pair of Lauboutins! We’re on our feet A LOT!

Working with athletes and patients alike, I’m constantly on my feet- either watching patients perform various functional movement tasks, demonstrating exercises or standing at the couch and treating. So, moving to a job that involves an hour’s drive either way and then sitting at a desk for 12 hours, for 4 days back to back- has provided a significant change in what my body does- in terms of position and the loads placed on the joints and muscles. 

We know from various research papers, that the human body adapts very quickly to new conditions; once elite level athletes stop training, there is a measurable reduction in muscle strength even after just 10 days! For us mere mortals, it will be a case a couple of weeks perhaps.

So…picture the scene- I’d survived my first 4 days- alien environment, lots of new stuff to learn, along with A LOT of sitting…I really felt like going for a run, get myself into the fresh air! When I say run, I should quantify that- it’s a steady 1 minute run: 2 minute walk. I should also say at this point, that I’m not a “runner” as such- I’m a regular gym goer and I throw myself enthusiastically around a netball court x 1 a week…with a VERY occasional run.

During this first run, at about the 30 minute mark, I felt a sharp cramping sensation in my right calf that literally stopped me in my stride- let’s stop, walk a little- have another go… nope! Definitely not going to “run this one off!” So, disappointingly, I limped the rest of the way home and popped a bag of frozen peas on it for 20 minutes. I could still feel it the following day so I concluded that I’d pulled it (but not torn; no bruising or swelling and although slightly sore, walking was much easier.) So, what to do about it? Something that we see commonly in clinic, are people who hurt themselves and then rest too much- many weeks in some cases- then returning to running once pain-free, without having prepared the injured muscle adequately, often resulting in re-injury. 

Fortunately, having worked with a lot of court-based sports at Derby University (with all the associated calf and ankle problems!) I know the importance of good strong calf muscles- and how they can protect the ankles and lower legs- so, I got going with the calf strengthening circuit that I had devised for the athletes to do. It’s a series of various types of calf raises (also known as heel raises) that don’t require any pieces of gym equipment (apart from a step/ set of stairs) that can be very helpful when trying to prepare a previously injured and weak calf muscle.

But how do you know if your calf muscle is strong enough to run? Well, as a general rule of thumb in the clinic, if someone who’s had a significant injury (knee surgery-ligament repair or muscle tear) and wanting to return to running or a running-based sport, I would ask the patient to perform a single leg calf raise endurance test (how many can they perform to fatigue- off a step?) I would expect to see around the 25 rep mark- or certainly no less than 5 reps difference compared to the non-injured side. 

I duly did this and within a week or so, I went out for another run- but knowing that I hurt my calf at around 30 minutes, I felt it sensible to keep it to 20 minutes (the reality being; it felt good so I managed 30, but no more!)

 

So- key questions to ask yourself before doing something new;

  • What does the new activity involve?
  • How does is differ to my normal “day to day” activities?
  • Am I strong enough/ flexible enough to do this new activity?

You may need some help addressing these kinds of questions- our staff can be really helpful when it comes to starting something new.

Closing thoughts;    “Most injuries occur in people who’ve done too much, too quickly having done too little for too long!”

Thanks++ Jo Keegan for finding the time to pen your experience and share it with us

Please get in contact if we can help at all: [email protected] / 07977 239893

Please also keep in touch just to let us know how you're getting on!

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steven robinson
13th February 2024

The treatment was very successful and I was looked after very well. Would highly recommend this company. Very professional.

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11th December 2023

Definitely 5 star

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Andy Ward
5th December 2023

I was well looked after by Alan Beer. He managed to sort out best ways to relive the pain in my Achilles. I would definitely recommend Impact Physiotherapy.

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Tracey
26th October 2023

From the front desk to the Physiotherapist everyone was incredibly friendly. I had an issue with an old injury on my foot after overdoing it at Zumba. I was given advice and support, my foot is feeling so much better. Really appreciate your help Thank you

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Maythe Weed
5th October 2023

I've been using impact for over a year now for physio treatment and Pilates classes. Both have been excellent and everyone I've seen has been helpful. I think they've really helped keep my physical problems from flaring up.

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Peter Giddens
2nd October 2023

Got me from sleepless nights in 4 visits

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Muhammad Wajhi Khan
27th September 2023

I had Physio session with Julie Lee, she is very professional and great physiotherapist. I would highly recommend Julie Lee if you are having lower back problems. Many Thanks

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pauline Turton
24th September 2023

I found my treatment with Fiona Hunter,very valuable and enlightening.

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Dale Longmuir
1st September 2023

Chris has been my physician at impact, he’s great at understanding and conducting exercises to best combat my issues. Incredibly helpful and insightful!

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Deborah Turner
19th August 2023

Sally was amazing. Gave me the exercises for my shoulder & showed me how to do them. Even though we had a laugh at the way I did one or two of them. She was professional & definitely knows the exercises that help each problem. A big thank you for sorting me Sally

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Mark Longshaw
15th August 2023

Fantastic service and friendly staff

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debby millard
23rd July 2023

I was referred to impact by my doctor due to severe arthritis in my hips ,had a very long wait for an appointment and to be honest I was not expecting physio to help much .I saw a lovely physio called Steven who immediately puts you at ease and after a few weeks I saw much improvement .At the end of my course of physio the pain had eased a lot and was much less painful on walking .I definitely would recommend impact physio and particularly Steven who I would like to thank for all his help .

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GEOFF SUMPTER
18th July 2023

Chris was very calm and his application was very gentle, I felt great benefit from my visits. 5 STARS

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Gary Yates
18th July 2023

A very proffesional and positive service

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Gillian Smedley
15th June 2023

I found all the staff to be very friendly and helpful and although I problem wasn't resolved I was given the tools to manage the problem. Thank you.

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Susan
7th June 2023

Absolutely brilliant physio therapy. So professional and really know there business! Would highly recommend them!

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Karen Hutchinson
6th May 2023

I've been impressed with every aspect of this service. When I've needed to change an appointment the people I've spoken to have been helpful and understanding. The physio, Jack Clayton, was polite, friendly and knowledgeable. He listened to my feedback and worked with me to find a programme I could follow. I wouldn't hesitate to use again in the future. Thank you!

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Tim Gordon
8th April 2023

Chris Davenport was brilliant. Correctly diagnosed and treated mt persistent back pain in one session. I can't thank him enough. Thanks Chris

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Reggie Tailor
12th January 2023

Came here for the first time a few months ago looking for help with my lower back. I had a god sit down chat with Jack and then a number of physio sessions thereafter. Jack was incredibly helpful, informative and very passionate about his work and getting me better. Jack gave me a clear timeline and a structured plan of physio which has helped me incredibly. I would highly recommend Impact Physio to anyone that needs physio and if I ever do need to go back it will be Jack I go back to see.

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Barbara Chilton
27th September 2022

Jack was very helpful and understanding. The exercises I was given have helped a lot and I will continue with them.

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Maggie Pearson
6th September 2022

Glad to be referred here. Good exercise program built up in stages. These sent email to follow and refer to. Very effective. My physio very calm and encouraging. Best of all is I’m able to do again what had become so limiting. If I should need help again I’ll definitely go back

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Emma Cobb
9th May 2022

Impact Physio has given me a new lease of life, for the first time in 6 years I don't worry about my backache and Joe has been great. She listened about my previous experience to create a unique plan for me that was so adaptive and really work. Hard work and Joe's help has really changed my life

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Dick Scott
9th May 2022

I had 8 Physio sessions with my physio therapist Chris and he was most helpful and considerate throughout for all of my problems. He always gave good advise and posted exercises for me to do at home which helped immensley. What I saw of the Long Eaton Impact Physiotherapy place the therapists who work there were well equipped and trained to deal with any of your problems to re habilitate.

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Nick Dee
4th May 2022

Required Impact physio again to help me with my back and knee discomfort / pain, over several sessions. Ali was a superstar, listening and providing a program to get me feeling a lot better, can't recommend enough.

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breastoncc
21st March 2022

Had treatment for a very painful back problem & the physiotherapy given by Impact gradually alleviated the problem. My therapist listened to me, answered my questions & the treatment recommended worked, hence 5 stars in this review.

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Jane Gregory
8th March 2022
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MISS KAREN ANN COOPER
28th February 2022

I was introduced to the two leaders of the exercise classes called Jess and Jon. I told them what had happened and how I ended up coming to Derby.

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Gary Mayne
22nd February 2022

I attended the Pride Park clinic to get treatment on my lower back. Tom was great, he really made the exercise and treatment plan feel bespoke and tailored to me and my recovery. Really impressed, would recommend to anyone.

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Calum Baillie
30th January 2022

Was involved with impact Oct 21 till Jan 22. Ali was wonderful, she excelled in all aspects, Cher Knowledge was second to none Can't thank her enough When I first came, in agony and not sleeping To where I am now Brilliant

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Jean Enoch
17th January 2022

I cannot thank Sally enough for all the help she's given me, the advise and exercises, The pain has now gone, I can walk better,

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John Stuart
18th December 2021

My First experience was with Chris Davenport on referral for hip and spine problems by my GP. Two courses done and he recommended Hatha yoga to supplement his treatment and help me long term. However before I could implement it lockdown came in so it was delayed until Autumn this year. I signed (with Mariangela)not fully knowing or expecting much in the way of personal tailoring or yoga exercise to be relevant to my situation. I needn’t have worried as the class of six is like minded and Mariangela caters (and cares) for us all. Bonus is it seems to be working; thanks Mariangela. The covid care from all at LE clinic is first class and not uncomfortable allowing for windows open. Reception staff always friendly with a smile. All in all just the tonic Update following treatment again in 2023 Not the first time I’ve used this service, same location, same Physiotherapist (Chris Davenport) and yes the same receptionist’s. As before they provided me with the ( in my view) the best treatment they could given my arthritis coupled with a set treatment time scale provided by the NHS. Thanks to all the staff.

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Amar Hayer
3rd December 2021

Been coming here regularly for a few years now and it's really helped with the active live style. Robyn is a legend

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Sandra Woodward
15th October 2021
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steven stewart
23rd September 2021

Word cannot describe very good staff

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michael hickley
14th September 2021

Having pulled a hamstring at work and being unable to walk for a few days,my wife booked me in with impact Physio.I was looking at being off work for about 2-3 months.On the day of my appointment,I was met by a pretty young lady who got me to walk away from her then back again a few times.I was then asked to lie on my back on the couch where a pair of expert hands gently massaged the delicate hamstring area.A bit of manipulation got me a bit of pain,causing me to jolt slightly, but I was expecting worse anyway.I was then asked to lie face down on the couch.My lower back was then massaged and manipulated.The whole session took probably 30 minutes.The physiotherapist was always talking to me,saying what she was going to do, and wether or not I would experience any pain or discomfort.She was very good at her job, and did it professionally.Within 2 weeks, I was back at work.If you need a physiotherapist, look no further than Impact Physio.They don't come cheap, but you pay for what you get,rather than get what you pay for.Mine was worth every penny.I will definitely use Impact Physio again if i need to.

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Gerry Foran
14th September 2021

Great treatment everytime without fail I would not go anywhere else

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Steve Holland
21st July 2021

I am very happy to commend Fiona's diagnostic skills, the immediate treatment and the provision of a set of achievable and worthwhile exercises that backed up the initial treatment and mobilisation.

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A Pau
17th June 2021

Having long term back pain is  not easy and same goes for three discectomies. Initially my physiotherapist was chosen for me by a spinal surgeon and I went with his choice but after meeting Louise and going through her 1:1 sessions I ended up attending the Long Eaton clinic for the last six years. Louise has an impressive  knowledge base and will always find a way to keep you mobile even when you feel you won't ever be able to move normal . During the years we worked together on  my back  she attended many courses and conferences and her skills make it so that , somehow, we still rarely repeat an exercise and I am sure there are many more to discover.She worked her "magic" on me so many times that I now only trust her with my recovery from yet another discectomy. Due to her skills I  managed to lead a normal life, I was able to keep my job which can be quite strenuous , I travelled long distances by plane or car , basically kept active. My admiration for  Louise is endless. Not only she is an excellent physiotherapist and Pillates instructor, but she is  also a wonderful human being ,who in this day and age  has maintained empathy and compassion for the suffering of those around her. I wouldn't want to miss Laura and Sandy and the whole reception  team from this review . Thank you for your help and support over the years ladies! It is much appreciated.

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Helen Tidy
5th May 2021

My daughter was referred by her GP and we had 2 appointments with Louise. She was brilliant and really good with my 8 year old daughter. Both appointments were thorough and my daughter was shown lots of different exercises to do at home with explanations of how they would help her. We also had emails showing the exercises in videos as well. The appointments were during 'covid times' as well and we felt very safe.

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S Pearce
27th April 2021
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Oliver Reed
13th April 2021

Great sports massage with Sara at Long Eaton. Thank you.

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Martin Burton
16th March 2021

Sally was absolutely brilliant.

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Paul Wright
16th March 2021

Very clean, well run

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Rachael Sisson
9th March 2021
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Beryl Withey
21st January 2021

Went for covid inoculation. Extremely well organised. Very nice place.

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Sue Shearman
12th January 2021

Would totally recommend Impact Physio, and in particular Annalise. Referred here due to neck/shoulder pain during Covid, the service was safe, professional and most importantly effective. Annalise spent time to really understand the background to my issues to treat the cause, as well as the symptoms

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Damon Gill
11th January 2021

Couldn't recommend enough, Ben was great and I can honestly say there's no more pain. Started at the Pride Park office and they found room for me in Long Eaton when Covid forced the pride Park office to close. Great service.