
20 Sep Orthotics in Rugby: Preventing and Treating Injuries
Orthotics in Rugby: Preventing and Treating Injuries
The Rugby World Cup has began and we know that many South Africans have contracted ‘rugby fever’ as they proudly wear their green and gold, and support the ‘bokke’ with pride. Unfortunately members of our squad have also already encountered some serious injuries. We thought we could use this platform to take a look at the impact of orthotics in rugby, and how orthotics can be used to prevent and treat injuries.
As we all know, rugby is a high-impact sport with a high risk of injury as it demands strength, speed, and endurance from players. As players push their bodies to the limit, orthotics often play a vital role in preventing and treating injuries.
Understanding orthotics
Orthotics are externally applied devices, such as a brace, shoe insoles, or a splint, which are used to support, align and correct the function of the movable parts of the body.
At Grant Monaghan and Associates, our team of medical professionals manufacture, supply, fit and maintain medical orthotics for a number of conditions, including sports related injuries.
Understanding why rugby injuries are so common
Before we explore the role of orthotics in treating and preventing sports related injuries, it’s important to understand why the risk of injury is so high for rugby players. Rugby involves running, tackling, quick changes of direction, and scrummaging. All of which put immense stress on the players’ bodies, making them vulnerable to injuries.
How orthotics can be used to help common rugby injuries
For rugby players of all levels and ages, injury prevention is vital for success. By using orthotics where necessary, rugby athletes can minimise the risk of injuries and increase their chances of performing at their peak.
Here are some common injuries faced by rugby players and how orthotics can be used to aid athletes.
Ankle Sprains: Ankle injuries are common in rugby due to high impact physical contact and speedy changes in direction. Orthotics such as ankle braces and custom-made insoles can help to stabilise the ankle joint and prevent sprains.
Knee Injuries: Knee ligament injuries, such as anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears, are a large concern for rugby players. Orthotic knee braces can offer support and protect the knee from excessive twisting or hyperextension and are also used post injury to recover sooner and more completely.
Foot Injuries: The constant running and impact can lead to conditions like plantar fasciitis and stress fractures. Orthotic insoles, which can be custom made to fit your foot and inserted into your shoe, provide cushioning, arch support, and proper alignment, reducing the strain on the feet.
Back Injuries: Rugby players often experience back pain due to the physical demands of scrummaging and tackling. Custom orthotics can help with spinal alignment and reduce the risk of lower back injuries. Post injury supports assist with a faster recovery period and aid the medical team with rehabilitation plans.
The advantages of using orthotics in rugby
Orthotics not only treat injuries, but they help to prevent injuries by providing stability.
In rugby, sudden movements are unavoidable, however orthotics allow players to move and change direction quickly while maintaining balance.
Custom orthotics are designed to assist each individual with their specific issues, ensuring better alignment of the lower limbs.
Custom made insoles can also reduce the strain on muscles and joints in the feet and legs, which means players experience less pain during the game. This will allow them to keep playing at their best for longer durations with less fatigue and strain of many structures.
As professional rugby players are in the midst of the Rugby World Cup, many young, aspiring players will be taking to the field as well. For orthotic support, both in treating and preventing rugby injuries, contact Grant Monaghan and Associates.