August 20, 2010

AFL Record - Hyperbaric Chamber

Clubs need injured players at full fitness and back on the park asap. When Fevola bruised his heel early in 2009, he underwent hyperbaric oxygen treatment in an effort to assist the healing of this injury. Football clubs are interested in the use of hyperbaric oxygen therapy and its potential for the treatment of muscle, tendon and ligament injuries as it is considered to reduce swelling,prevent infection, reduce pain and promote healing. Read on to find out the theory behind how this treatment could be effecting in assisting the healing of injuries.

This article was originally published in the Football Record, round 15, 2009.

June 18, 2010

Inside Football - Feeling no pain

On average, 8 AFL players per club are unavailable for selection each week due to injury, that's 20% of the playing list. Where possible, injured players will 'take the needle', an injection of local anaesthetic to numb the pain of a mild sprain or painful joint, to enable them to take the field for their team. Read on to find out more about this very common practice in the AFL.

This article was originally featured in Inside Football on 24th June, 2009

March 24, 2010

AFL Record - Osteitis Pubis

Osteitis Pubis can be a career ending injury in AFL. Characterised by chronic pain at the pubic bone and surrounding areas of the groin, if left untreated a player can begin to lose agility, kicking power and speed. Initially pain may not be felt all the time. Players need to be aware of the symptoms and respond quickly to avoid this debilitating injury affecting their career longevity.

This article was originally published in the AFL Record, Roung 12 2009.