Inflammation:  To fight off bacteria and elicit a response for ‘healing’

 
In the short term: Inflammation could be considered a good thing. Physiological symptoms such as swelling and pain can indicate an injury has been sustained and may continue if not addressed. Inflammation also acts as a response to fight potential bacteria that could take hold in our bodies.

BUT

In the long term however, it can become a major problem, causing ongoing pain, restricted function and subsequently weakening of a structure.

 
What can we do?
For Biomechanical (physical injury) circumstances – when chronic inflammation has affected a soft tissue structure e.g. the plantar facia, knee joint (the cartilage), the first step is to unload the structure. In other words – take pressure off the area to allow for recovery.
Has a health professional ever told you that if running is causing your knee to hurt – maybe take a rest from running? Ahhh yes, but no thanks… said most patients.

 
Having a biomechanical assessment can identify WHY is the structure loading up so much and breaking down? An assessment will identify:
• Are the joints in the most correct alignment?
• What soft tissue structures have been affected?
• Identifying the above means a plan can be implemented!

Treatment Options at Live Active
It can be one or a combination of:
• Joint mobilisations/adjustments
• The correct stretch / strength techniques, soft tissue therapies (needling, laser or shockwave)
• Footwear changes
• Orthopaedic interventions (lifts or orthotics for example)
• Strapping and or padding.

When do you require ‘Anti inflammatory’ intervention as well?
Your health professional can determine if an anti-inflammatory intervention would be adequate depending on if you are in an acute or chronic state.
• In an extremely acute state, ice and oral anti inflammatory meds (e.g. oral voltran etc.) are warranted to alleviate some of those nasty inflammatory mediators from causing more damage and stress to the structure.
• If a concern is of a chronic nature you might like to consider Turmeric (yes the yellow curry spice) as an option.

Turmeric has been used for centuries by many cultures for a variety of things. There are a tonne of studies and research outcomes available that reveal Turmeric supplementation is strongly anti inflammatory. Turmeric contains curcumin – a bioactive substance that fights inflammation at a molecular level. Turmeric supplements can assist fighting inflammation but is additionally important in preventing inflammation. Therefore dosage should be discussed with your Pharmacist or Naturopath to get a clear guide for your individual needs.