Avoiding tennis injuries

As the sun starts to come out and with Wimbledon just around the corner, you may be thinking it’s the perfect time to hit the tennis court. We spoke to Professor David Barrett, consultant orthopaedic surgeon at King Edward VII’s Hospital, about how to avoid potential injuries when you first pick up a racquet.

The NHS is expecting a huge spike of twists, sprains, snapped ligaments and damaged joints when the ‘weekend warriors’ hit municipal courts to emulate the stars of the Wimbledon courts. The combination of pent-up energy from winter and the traditional burst of enthusiasm could lead to record-breaking numbers of injuries, cautions the leading orthopaedic surgeon.

“People throw themselves into this every year without training or any build up. They simply find their old racquet, put on some old trainers and head to the court. But they could be heading for injuries.

“If they are lucky, it will be a sprain or strain that will keep them out for a few days but many will suffer serious knee damage” says Professor

David Barrett, an eminent knee consultant who specialises in sports injuries.

What sort of damage can be done on the court?

Professor Barret, a consultant orthopaedic knee surgeon at King Edward VII’s Hospital, who treats professional sports stars and the public, adds that casual players do not appreciate the stress their joints have to withstand in sport. He is part of the Specialist Knee Unit at King Edward VII’s Hospital which offers a one stop diagnosis and treatment for all knee conditions and complaints. The knee is one of the largest and most complex joints in the body and a sudden increase in sporting activity can stress and damage the ligaments, soft tissue and cartilage that are vital to keep it functioning optimally.

“We put the force of 4.5 times our bodyweight through the knee when we are twisting and turning so that is 45 stones for a person weighing 10 stones, which increases with sporting activity” he adds.

How do you get back into your favourite sport safely?

“My advice to the general public wanting to hit the courts is the same as we give our professional athletes – gradually increase what you do rather than hit the ground running.

“You need to condition your body to tolerate the extra stress. It is not as exciting as charging around but the worst thing you could do is to book a two-hour court with three friends who are fitter than you.”

His guidance is to build up from short, gentle sessions of 30 minutes without going over an hour in the first fortnight of resuming sport.

“People will have that ‘no pain – no gain’ mindset after being locked up for a year and max out their effort when they should be listening to their body and stopping when they feel discomfort.

“You need to condition your muscles and brain to create that muscle and movement memory that will help prevent injuries.”

Top Tips To Avoid Injury

1) Always loosen up before – stretch your muscles

2) Start little and often – better than a massive session

3) Don’t max the max – don’t go to extreme activity. Ramp up slowly and stop before it gets painful

4) Steady progression is key – move forward carefully so there is never a need to step back.

Knee Health Check for £595

If you’re experiencing knee pain and want a fast diagnosis and treatment plan, King Edward VII’s Hospital offers an all-inclusive knee health check package which includes a consultation, x-ray and follow up appointment for £595.

For more information, contact: Mon- Fri 0203 930 1392 or visit kingedwardvii.co.uk