A Different Perspective on Persistent and Recurring Sports Injuries
At Andromeda Osteopathie in Veldhoven and Valkenswaard, we focus on investigating potential underlying factors contributing to persistent and recurring sports-related complaints. Why do certain symptoms persist despite a carefully structured rehabilitation programme? And why do some injuries keep recurring?
Our osteopathic approach is characterised by an emphasis on identifying the primary dysfunction. Within our approach, this refers to the structure exhibiting the most pronounced restriction in mobility, which may play an important role in the overall clinical presentation.
From an osteopathic perspective, we aim to support the body’s natural capacity for self-healing.
Persistent and Recurring Sports Injuries: Looking Beyond the Symptoms
Why does that tendon injury refuse to heal? What causes recurring shin splints? Could connective tissue structures elsewhere in the body contribute to chronic exertional compartment syndrome? And why does back pain keep returning despite intensive treatment, targeted exercise therapy and core strengthening? Could there be a connection between a previous concussion and recurring knee problems? Why do I remain susceptible to hamstring and Achilles tendon injuries?
Or consider an athlete who has completed a carefully structured rehabilitation programme following an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury, under the supervision of experienced rehabilitation specialists. Everything appears to have gone well, yet shortly after returning to play, another injury occurs.
In sports injury management, considerable attention is generally given to the affected tissue, local load tolerance and a carefully structured rehabilitation programme. Nevertheless, symptoms may persist or recur despite appropriate medical care. Sometimes the original injury has healed completely, only for a different muscle or tendon injury to develop.
Coincidence? Or could other factors be involved that have so far remained overlooked?
The location where symptoms occur is not necessarily where the most significant underlying dysfunction is found. From an osteopathic perspective, we therefore investigate not only the area where pain or restricted movement is experienced, but also potential relationships with other structures and systems throughout the body. Using gentle manual techniques, the osteopath examines the body as a whole, paying attention to possible restrictions in mobility and the relationships between different structures.
Based on our clinical experience, we also consider previous physically demanding experiences, physical or emotional trauma, and potential biochemical factors. Examples include a previous concussion, a significant fall or an impact to the abdomen. We investigate whether such events may contribute to the athlete’s current symptoms.
We believe osteopathy deserves an important place in the management of sports injuries, both for recreational and elite athletes. We regard osteopathy as a complementary approach that considers potential underlying factors which may influence the development, persistence or recurrence of symptoms.
Osteopathic Treatment for Sports Injuries
The treatment approach used by the osteopaths at Andromeda is characterised by gentle, targeted techniques. We generally avoid forceful manipulations, instead tailoring treatment to the findings of the examination.
Athletes are often accustomed to more forceful manual treatment and may initially need some time to adjust to our relatively gentle approach. Despite the mild nature of the treatment, temporary reactions may occur. Ultimately, we assess the outcome based on recovery and the progression of symptoms over the longer term.
Osteopathy is not a quick fix. Rather than focusing exclusively on temporary symptom relief, our approach aims to investigate and, where possible, address underlying dysfunctions, with the goal of achieving lasting recovery.
Osteopathy as a Complement to Sports Medical Care
Osteopathy may be considered for both acute and persistent sports-related complaints, depending on the nature of the symptoms and the medical findings.
We believe it is important to work alongside existing medical care. Osteopathy does not replace sports medical diagnostics, physiotherapy or active rehabilitation. Where appropriate, and with the athlete’s consent, we can collaborate with the sports physician, physiotherapist or medical team involved in their care.
Osteopathy and Injury Prevention
An athlete may be performing exceptionally well and be completely free of symptoms, while an osteopathic examination may still reveal pronounced restrictions in mobility.
Within our approach, we focus on identifying the primary dysfunction. This may be located in a structure that, at first glance, appears to have little connection to the physical demands of the athlete’s sport. Examples include fascial tension around the diaphragm, restrictions in mobility of the sacrum, or tension within connective tissues following previous trauma.
From an osteopathic perspective, we investigate whether such findings may influence an athlete’s freedom of movement and ability to tolerate physical load, even in the absence of symptoms.
Based on this perspective, we see a potential complementary role for osteopathy in the preventive care of recreational and professional athletes. However, established preventive measures, such as targeted strength training, appropriate progression of training loads and adequate recovery, remain essential.
Ervaring met sportblessures en revalidatie
At Andromeda Osteopathie, Marc van Leeuwen and Sten Bierens have a particular interest in treating and supporting recreational, professional and elite athletes.
Both Marc and Sten have backgrounds in physiotherapy and extensive experience in treating sports-related injuries and rehabilitation. Before dedicating himself entirely to osteopathy, Marc worked for over ten years as a Master’s-level Manual Therapist and Sports Physiotherapist.
Sten also brings extensive experience in supporting and rehabilitating both recreational and professional athletes. He has worked with youth players at PSV Eindhoven and supported athletes who have achieved success at national and international levels, including champions in sports such as motocross and squash. He has a deep understanding of the elite sports mindset and the importance of optimal physical function in achieving peak performance.
Want to Learn More About Our Osteopathic Approach?
In our publications and clinical case stories, you can read more about our perspective on sports injuries, potential underlying factors, and our examination and treatment approach.
Osteopathy for Athletes in Veldhoven and Valkenswaard
At Andromeda Osteopathie in Veldhoven and Valkenswaard, both recreational and professional athletes are welcome for osteopathic assessment and treatment.
Do your sports injuries keep recurring despite previous treatments or a carefully structured rehabilitation programme?
At Andromeda Osteopathie, we look beyond the location of the symptoms. Through our osteopathic approach, we investigate potential underlying restrictions in mobility and relationships between different structures that may contribute to the overall clinical presentation.
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