Joe Clarke is the reigning Olympic Champion in the canoe slalom men’s K1, making history at the 2016 Rio Games by winning GB’s first gold medal in this event and Team GB’s second gold medal of the Games.
Joe joined us at Therapy Expo to share his experience of Shockwave Therapy ESWT. Luckily Joe currently has no injuries but his physio had told him he has a very tight thoracic spine and a decreased range of motion in his right shoulder. We introduced Joe to shockwave therapy treatment applicators: SPINE-ACTOR & PERI-ACTOR.
Joe was assessed and treated on the Venn Healthcare stand by Jens Lundgren, Dr of Naprapathy and Shockwave Therapy ESWT expert. Jens used the Storz SPINE-ACTOR for treating the joint stiffness in Joe’s thoracic spine and the PERI-ACTOR knuckle Fascia release applicator on his shoulder to improve his range of motion.
About the SPINE-ACTOR
Storz SPINE-ACTOR applicator is used to mobilise the joints in the spine and treats the muscles either side of the spine. It’s a comfortable treatment and very safe. SPINE-ACTOR treats vertebral joints of the entire spinal column in the cervical, thoracic and lumbar areas e.g. treatment of the paravertebral muscles, dysfunctions in the entire spinal column, muscular imbalances and pain conditions as well as trigger points.
About the PERI-ACTOR
There are 4 Storz PERI-ACTOR applicators for various fascia treatments. In this video Jens uses the knuckle applicator designed for the shoulder region. The Fascia applicators are similar to other fascia release treatments, the difference is using the Storz device physician can enter setting into the device to recreate the same treatment each time, ensuring the pressure and frequency remains consistent. It’s not labour intensive and therefore the treatment remains consistent and equal without the variations in treatment when using manual techniques. Its easier to control the treatment and the therapist does not become tired.
What is the thoracic spine?
The thoracic spine is the longest region of the spine, and by some measures it is also the most complex. Connecting with the cervical spine above and the lumbar spine below, the thoracic spine runs from the base of the neck down to the abdomen. It is the only spinal region attached to the rib cage. Thoracic mobility can be thought of the available movement or motion of this region of our body, and is very important for achieving good posture. It is also essential for most sporting performances. Life style and certain sports can lead to stiffness and poor movement which increases the natural “kyphosis” (rounding curve) of the thoracic spine which can lead to decreased sporting performance, injury and pain.
What is the fascia?
Fascia is a specialised system of the body that has an appearance similar to a spider’s web. Fascia is very densely woven, covering and interpenetrating every muscle, bone, nerve, artery and vein, as well as, all of our internal organs. Fascia plays an important role in the support and function of our bodies, since it surrounds and attaches to all structures. In the normal healthy state, the fascia is relaxed, with the ability to stretch and move without restriction. When the body experiences physical trauma, scarring, or inflammation fascia loses its pliability, becomes tight, restricted, and a source of tension to the rest of the body. Myofascial Release is a safe and very effective technique that involves applying gentle sustained pressure into the Myofascial connective tissue restrictions to eliminate pain and restore motion.
Contact info@vennhealthcare.com for more information on the Storz Medical Shockwave therapy range.
