Our interviewee today is Andy Van Blommestein; a professional physiotherapist who specialises in musculoskeletal physiotherapy. He talks to us about the benefits of physiotherapy, shares a few tips on how to treat neck pain and tell us how he got on at his first class at the Power Yoga Company.
What is physiotherapy exactly and how can it improve wellbeing?
Physiotherapy is a profession that helps individuals restore movement and function to as near normal as possible, especially when that person is affected by injury, illness or by other disabilities. Our role also includes education on coping strategies and how to allow optimal healing. We can enhance wellbeing by reducing pain, regaining movement and increasing fitness and strength.
Can you offer us any tips on how to prevent common injuries?
"In the event of injury remember that the body is very good at repairing itself but if the pain has not started to improve after 2 weeks then it’s probably time to seek professional advice"
Neck pain at work is one of the more common injuries that we see at Six Physio. 3 good tips to help prevent this from occurring are:
- Make sure your desk at work is appropriately set up – i.e. that computer screen is eye level, chair is at a suitable height and that the keyboard and mouse sit in front of the screen
- Check your sitting posture and make sure you are not slumping over your desk
- Take regular breaks from your sitting position at work and try to stand up and move around at least every 45min.
In the event of injury remember that the body is very good at repairing itself but if the pain has not started to improve after 2 weeks then it’s probably time to seek professional advice. Please do visit us at Six Physio on the corner of PG Lane and Fulham Rd.
You’ve just completed your first Foundation yoga class. How did you get on?
My one concern before I tried yoga was my lack of flexibility. Perhaps I had also underestimated the power (excuse the pun) of yoga because I found the class a tough workout, requiring a lot more physical strength than I initially expected. But when we finished I felt great and also very relaxed. It surpassed all my expectations and was very impressed by the professionalism and expertise of the instructor, Michael. I will definitely be visiting again!