Medical Expert Urges Consistency in Injury Rehabilitation to Avoid Re-injury
A health professional has issued a stark warning to individuals recovering from physical injuries, emphasising the critical importance of maintaining rehabilitation exercises long after symptoms appear to have resolved. Dr Suraj Kukadia, widely known as Dr Sooj, highlighted that prematurely ceasing prescribed physiotherapy routines is a common yet significant error that can drastically increase the risk of sustaining another injury.
The Phases of Healing and the Remodelling Stage
In a detailed message shared on TikTok, Dr Sooj explained that injury healing occurs in multiple distinct stages: the inflammatory phase, tissue repair, and remodelling. He stressed that the remodelling phase, in particular, can extend for many months, during which the body actively reorganises collagen fibres and strengthens repaired tissues. "Your soft tissues, muscles, tendons, and ligaments might feel fine, but it is very unlikely they are fully healed," Dr Sooj cautioned, underscoring that pain cessation does not equate to complete recovery.
Evidence from Research on ACL Injuries
To reinforce his advice, Dr Sooj referenced a pivotal 2020 study focusing on anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries. The research found that returning to knee-strenuous sports within nine months of ACL reconstruction surgery was associated with an approximately seven-fold increase in the risk of a second ACL injury. This underscores the necessity of prolonged rehabilitation efforts to ensure tissues are adequately strengthened before resuming normal activities.
The Role of Physiotherapy in Recovery
Dr Sooj elaborated on the purpose of exercises prescribed by physiotherapists or exercise physiologists. These routines are designed to strengthen surrounding muscles, offload stress from the injured area, and improve proprioception—the body's awareness of joint positioning in space. He urged patients to persist with these exercises for at least three to six months after symptoms resolve, noting that consistency is key to preventing re-injury.
Understanding Physiotherapy and Accessing Services
Physiotherapy is a therapeutic approach that helps alleviate pain and enhance movement through exercises, massage, and other techniques, particularly beneficial for those dealing with injuries, illnesses, or disabilities. In the UK, free physiotherapy is available through the NHS, though waiting lists may apply. According to the NHS, physiotherapy can address a range of issues, including:
- Bone, joint, and muscle problems such as arthritis, back pain, neck pain, and sports injuries like sprains or strains.
- Heart and circulation issues, including high blood pressure and post-heart attack recovery.
- Movement difficulties following a stroke or due to conditions like multiple sclerosis or Parkinson's disease.
- Breathing problems caused by asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
- Complications during or after pregnancy, such as pelvic pain and incontinence.
The Chartered Society of Physiotherapy offers guidance on exercises for common ailments, which can be helpful for individuals without direct access to a physiotherapist. However, it is advisable to consult a doctor before attempting any exercises to ensure they are suitable for specific health conditions.
Dr Sooj's message serves as a vital reminder: "Feeling fine and being fully healed are not the same thing." By adhering to rehabilitation protocols, patients can significantly reduce their chances of re-injury and promote long-term recovery.
