Entries by Alta Health

What is a Meniscus Tear?

Meniscus tear causes, symptoms and treatments

The meniscus is a section of shock-absorbing cartilage that is located between the thigh bone (femur) and the shin bone (tibia). It is split up into two parts: the medial meniscus and the lateral meniscus. Its role is to act as a shock absorber, supply nutrition to the knee, distribute load safely and allow for movement at the knee joint.

A meniscus tear often occurs after rapid twisting of the knee

How does a meniscus tear happen?

A meniscus tear usually occurs as a result of a rapid twisting of the knee during a weightbearing movement. There are two major types of meniscus tears: acute and degenerative. Acute meniscus tears usually occur in a single leg weightbearing position, such as when changing direction or pivoting. Therefore, meniscus tears are common in change of direction sports such as basketball, football, rugby and tennis.

Degenerative meniscus tears usually occur in elderly populations, as a result of wear and tear of the knee joint. These tears can occur without the twisting mechanism of an acute meniscus tear.

The severity of a meniscus tear is graded on a scale of one to three. A Grade 1 tear is a small tear that does not extend to the articular surface – or the top – of the meniscus. Grade 2 is a larger tear in the meniscus that also does not extend to the articular surface. A Grade 3 tear will intersect the articular surface.

The shape of the tear is also important when classifying the tear. There are six distinct types of meniscus tear shapes. The larger tears and tears of abnormal shape are higher grade and therefore more severe. These tears are also more likely to require surgical intervention to be repaired.

Meniscus tear symptoms

The symptoms of a meniscus tear are dependent on the graded severity and the shape of the tear. The symptoms usually include pain and swelling, knee instability, a clicking or grinding noise when the injury occurs, knee locking or catching, and pain when standing on the affected limb.

Diagnosing a meniscus tear

A meniscus tear is usually diagnosed by a Physiotherapist or Orthopaedic Specialist. There are two meniscus tear diagnostic assessments that may be used: the McMurray’s Test and the Apley’s Grind Test. A positive test is indicated if pain is present, and the knee is catching or grinding during the test. If this assessment is considered positive, an Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) referral is prescribed to examine the severity of the tear. If the assessment is considered negative, further investigation may be needed.

How are meniscus tears treated?

Meniscus tears are treated depending on their severity. The initial treatment of a meniscus tear involves Resting, Icing, Compressing and Elevating (RICE), as well as bracing or taping to stabilise the knee and taking anti-inflammatory medication. Consult a Physiotherapist to improve the knee’s range of motion and reduce pain and inflammation.

How to strengthen the meniscus after a tear

Once pain and swelling has reduced, it is best to consult an Exercise Physiologist (EP). An EP will assess the injury and prescribe an individualised exercise rehabilitation program to re-stabilise the knee joint and improve strength in the muscles surrounding the knee. An EP will also provide an eventual return to sport and work rehabilitation plan.

Some meniscus tears will heal on their own due to a low severity of injury and the favourable location of the meniscus for blood flow. More severe and abnormally shaped tears may require surgical intervention to be repaired appropriately.

How can VALD help?

VALD’s suite of human measurement technologies includes a range of systems which can assist in diagnosing and rehabilitating meniscus tears.

The ForceDecks Dual Force Plate System allows practitioners to gather real-time feedback on relevant metrics, such as single leg and double leg jump height, squat mechanics, and balance and stability assessments.

The NordBord Hamstring Testing System can be used to measure hamstring strength and imbalance in various positions, providing an understanding as to how the muscles surrounding the meniscus injury are progressing.

The ForceFrame Strength Testing System is a fully adjustable system which is used to test isometric strength in upper and lower body positions, including the knee and hip muscles, and joints which are vital to a meniscus tear recovery.

VALD also recently launched a handheld dynamometer and inclinometer named DynaMo capable of performing more than 300 strength and range of motion tests. These tests can be utilised to assess hamstring and quadriceps strength, both of which are important metrics to monitor throughout the rehabilitation process.

To learn more about DynaMo and how dynamometers can be used in the treatment of conditions like a meniscus tear, visit: valdhealth.com/dynamo.

Meniscus tears are common in change of direction sports like football

What is Frozen Shoulder?

Frozen Shoulder causes, symptoms and treatments

Frozen Shoulder – also known as Adhesive Capsulitis – is a condition categorised by significant pain and restricted movement of the shoulder. Although it can occur in both shoulders, it is unlikely to do so simultaneously.

Frozen Shoulder is an idiopathic condition, meaning the cause is unknown. However, it is more common in women, as well as people who are over the age of 40, who are experiencing a period of sustained immobility (often following a surgical procedure), or who have systemic conditions such as diabetes or cardiovascular disease.

Pain and stiffness in the shoulder are key symptoms of Frozen Shoulder
Pain and stiffness in the shoulder are key symptoms of Frozen Shoulder

What are the main stages of Frozen Shoulder?

There are three main stages of Frozen Shoulder. The first stage is the ‘freezing’ stage, during which the shoulder becomes increasingly painful and begins to stiffen, resulting in a loss of mobility. This is followed by the ‘frozen’ stage, identified by a decrease in pain but an increase in stiffness. The third stage is known as the ‘thawing’ stage, during which mobility begins to improve.

It is important to note that there may be no direct cause or distinct episode that leads to the development of Frozen Shoulder. It is therefore important to seek medical attention if unusual pain or stiffness is present, even if it cannot be explained by a specific event or injury.

How is Frozen Shoulder diagnosed?

Frozen Shoulder is usually diagnosed through a clinical examination by a Physiotherapist. Pain, stiffness or a progressive loss of shoulder mobility in a patient often indicates Frozen Shoulder. While not always necessary, a Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scan can also help with confirming the diagnosis. It is also important to consider the possibility of other conditions such as peripheral arthropathies, rotator cuff muscle or tendon injuries, or a ligamentous injury.

How is Frozen Shoulder treated?

Frozen Shoulder can usually be resolved over time with help from a Physiotherapist or Exercise Physiologist (EP). While recovering from Frozen Shoulder, maintaining optimal function throughout the course of the condition is paramount. Physiotherapy can help to manage pain and mitigate loss of mobility during the condition, as well as help to optimise the restoration of function as the condition subsides. Often electrophysical modalities – such as Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) – may be used to control pain.

Manual therapy can also be helpful in improving range of motion, especially when movement becomes restricted by pain. A hydrodilatation injection into the joint capsule of the shoulder may be used to decrease pain and stiffness. Medication for pain relief is another option, although it is important to consult with a doctor before taking any medication.

Exercise is another important component of Frozen Shoulder recovery. Exercise is required to maintain strength and mobility in the areas surrounding the shoulder which will be affected by the change in shoulder activity. For example, the neck and upper back may become stiff when normal movement of the shoulder becomes restricted. The lower back also frequently compensates for an injured shoulder during movements such as overhead reaching.

Additionally, it is important to exercise your unaffected arm, as it will likely be exposed to more activity while the injured shoulder is frozen. A Physiotherapist or EP can prescribe an exercise plan which will greatly assist with the Frozen Shoulder recovery process.

How can VALD help with Frozen Shoulder?

VALD’s human measurement technologies allow practitioners to assist in diagnosing and rehabilitating Frozen Shoulder injuries.

The ForceFrame Strength Testing System is a fully adjustable system which is used to test isometric strength in upper and lower body positions – including the shoulder.

VALD also recently launched a handheld dynamometer and inclinometer named DynaMo capable of performing more than 300 different tests across the entire body. These tests can be utilised to assess shoulder strength and range of motion, both of which are important metrics to monitor throughout the rehabilitation process.

To learn more about DynaMo and how dynamometers can be used in the treatment of conditions like Frozen Shoulder, visit: valdhealth.com/dynamo.

An exercise rehabilitation plan prescribed by a Physiotherapist or Exercise Physiologist can help alleviate Frozen Shoulder
An exercise rehabilitation plan prescribed by a Physiotherapist or Exercise Physiologist can help alleviate Frozen Shoulder

This article was written by Sasha Birge, a Physiotherapist currently pursuing a Master’s in Sports Physiotherapy, with a Bachelor of Science in Athletic Training and a background in strength and conditioning. Sasha has a specialist interest in sporting injuries and return-to-sport rehabilitation.

What is a Medial Collateral Ligament (MCL) tear?

MCL tear causes and treatments

The Medial Collateral Ligament (MCL) is one of the four major ligaments that contribute to the stabilisation of the knee joint. The MCL is located on the inside of the knee joint, connecting the shin bone to the thigh bone. Its role is to stop the knee joint from buckling inwards.

Approximately 40 per cent of all knee injuries involve an MCL tear. MCL tears are prevalent at all ages and are common in sports which involve jumping and landing, as well as change-of-direction sports such as basketball, football, rugby and tennis.

A Physiotherapist or Exercise Physiologist can assist with an MCL tear recovery
A Physiotherapist or Exercise Physiologist can assist with the MCL tear recovery process

What is an MCL tear?

An MCL injury can either be classified as contact or non-contact, depending on the circumstances under which the ligament is injured. Contact MCL injuries commonly occur as a result of an external force applied to the outer knee, thus buckling the knee inwards and placing excessive force on the MCL. Non-contact MCL injuries occur when the knee twists inwards with rapid force or due to a change of direction.

When one of these two main types of injury occurs and the MCL is placed under excessive strain, the result is commonly an MCL sprain, tear or rupture. The severity of an MCL injury is graded on a scale of one to three.

Grade 1

A Grade 1 MCL tear is classified as a tear of less than 10 per cent of the ligament’s fibres. The knee will still feel stable, but mild pain and swelling is usually present.

Grade 2

A Grade 2 MCL tear is classified as moderate. The knee will feel slightly unstable, and pain and swelling will be prevalent on the inside of the knee.

Grade 3

A Grade 3 MCL tear is classified as a complete tear or rupture of the MCL. The knee will feel very unstable and symptoms of severe pain and swelling on the inside of the knee joint may be present. A Grade 3 tear of the MCL is commonly an additional injury to an Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) tear or a meniscus tear.

What does an MCL tear feel like?

The symptoms of an MCL tear are dependent on the graded severity of the injury. They usually include pain and swelling on the inside of the knee, knee instability, a pop or clicking noise when the injury occurs, knee locking or catching, and pain when standing on the affected limb.

How to test for an MCL tear

An MCL tear is usually diagnosed by a Physiotherapist or Orthopaedic Specialist. The MCL assessment involves pushing the knee joint inwards while stabilising the lower leg. A positive test is indicated if pain is present and if the MCL does not appear to pull the knee back to its original position. If this assessment is deemed positive, a Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) referral is prescribed to examine the severity of the tear. If the assessment is deemed negative, further investigation may be required.

How to treat an MCL tear

Treating an MCL tear is also dependent on its severity. The initial treatment of an MCL tear involves Resting, Icing, Compressing and Elevating (RICE), as well as bracing or taping to stabilise the knee and taking anti-inflammatory medication. Consult a Physiotherapist to improve the knee’s range of motion and reduce pain and inflammation.

How to strengthen the MCL after a tear

Once pain and swelling has reduced, it is best to consult an Exercise Physiologist (EP). An EP will assess the injury and prescribe an individualised exercise rehabilitation program to re-stabilise the knee joint and improve strength in the muscles surrounding the knee. An EP will also provide an eventual return to sport and work rehabilitation plan.

How long does an MCL tear take to heal?

The MCL will usually heal well due to its relatively superior blood flow capacity. Healing time is dependent on the severity of the tear and if the tear is secondary to an ACL or meniscus injury. A Grade 1 tear will take between one and three weeks to heal, Grade 2 between four and six weeks, and Grade 3 between six and eight weeks. A Grade 3 MCL tear in conjunction with an ACL tear will generally take more than six weeks to heal. In some instances, surgery may be required to repair the MCL.

How can VALD help MCL tear recovery?

VALD’s suite of human measurement technologies includes a range of systems which can assist in diagnosing and rehabilitating MCL tears.

The ForceDecks Dual Force Plate System allows practitioners to gather real-time feedback on relevant metrics, such as single leg and double leg jump height, squat mechanics, and balance and stability assessments.

The NordBord Hamstring Testing System can be used to measure hamstring strength and imbalance in various positions, providing an understanding as to how the muscles surrounding the MCL injury are progressing.

The ForceFrame Strength Testing System is a fully adjustable system which is used to test isometric strength in upper and lower body positions, including the knee and hip muscles, and joints which are vital to an MCL tear recovery.

VALD also recently launched a handheld dynamometer and inclinometer named DynaMo capable of performing more than 300 strength and range of motion tests. These tests can be utilised to assess hamstring and quadriceps strength, both of which are important metrics to monitor throughout the rehabilitation process.

To learn more about DynaMo and how dynamometers can be used in the treatment of conditions like an MCL tear, visit: valdhealth.com/dynamo.

A handheld dynamometer is used during post-surgery ACL tear rehabilitation
A handheld dynamometer is used during MCL tear rehabilitation

This article was written by Eddie Hess, an Accredited Exercise Physiologist with a Master’s in Clinical Exercise Physiology and a Bachelor in Exercise and Sports Science. Eddie specialises in musculoskeletal rehabilitation of post-surgical clients and has broad clinical experience. 

What is an Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) tear?

ACL tear causes and treatments

The Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) is one of the four major ligaments that contribute to the stabilisation of the knee joint. The ACL is located inside the knee joint, and its role is to stop the shin bone from shifting forward past the thigh bone. Its secondary role is to provide rotational stability to the knee joint.

Approximately 76 per cent of ACL injuries result in surgical intervention. ACL injuries are most prominent in female athletes, but are also common in change-of-direction sports such as basketball, football, rugby and tennis.

An ACL tear can be diagnosed and treated by a Physiotherapist
An ACL tear can be diagnosed and treated by a Physiotherapist

What is an ACL tear?

An ACL injury can either be classified as contact or non-contact, depending on the circumstances under which the ligament is injured. Contact ACL injuries commonly occur as a result of a tackle or direct contact to the knee, resulting in hyperextension or excessive twisting of the knee. Non-contact ACL injuries can occur due to a rapid change in direction, rapid acceleration or deceleration, or landing awkwardly from a jump or fall.

When one of these two main types of injury occurs and the ACL is placed under excessive strain, the result is commonly an ACL sprain, tear or rupture. The severity of an ACL injury is graded on a scale of one to three.

Grade 1

A Grade 1 ACL tear is classified as a stretch or mild sprain to the ligament. The knee will still feel stable, but mild pain and swelling is usually present.

Grade 2

A Grade 2 ACL tear is classified as a partial tear to the ligament. The knee will feel slightly unstable, and pain and swelling will be prevalent at the knee joint. Grade 2 ACL tears are rare and most ACL injury incidents result in complete rupture of the ligament.

Grade 3

A Grade 3 ACL tear is classified as a complete tear or rupture of the ACL. The knee will feel very unstable and symptoms of potentially severe pain and swelling at the knee joint may be prevalent. A Grade 3 tear of the ACL is often accompanied by secondary injuries to the meniscus, articular cartilage or damage to the Medial Collateral Ligament (MCL), Lateral Collateral Ligament (LCL) or Posterior Cruciate Ligament (PCL).

What does an ACL tear feel like?

The symptoms of an ACL tear are dependent on the graded severity of the injury. Symptoms usually include pain and swelling, knee instability, a pop or clicking noise when the injury occurs, knee locking or catching, and pain when bearing weight on the affected limb.

How to test for an ACL tear

An ACL tear is usually diagnosed by a Physiotherapist or Orthopaedic Specialist. The ACL assessment involves placing the patient in a seated or lying position, stabilising the ankle, and pulling on the back of the lower leg.

A positive test is indicated if pain is present and if the ACL does not appear to pull the knee back to its original position. If this assessment is deemed positive, a Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) referral is prescribed to examine the severity of the tear. If the assessment is deemed negative, further investigation may be required.

How to treat an ACL tear

ACL injury treatment is dependent on the severity of the tear. Most ACL tears require surgical intervention to reconstruct the ligament and repair any potential meniscus tears. The initial treatment of an ACL tear involves Resting, Icing, Compressing and Elevating (RICE), as well as bracing or taping to stabilise the knee and taking anti-inflammatory medication.

Consult a Physiotherapist to improve the knee’s range of motion and reduce pain and inflammation. Once pain and swelling has reduced, it is best to consult an Exercise Physiologist (EP). An EP will assess the injury and prescribe an individualised exercise rehabilitation program to re-stabilise the knee joint and improve the strength of the muscles surrounding the knee. They will also provide a rehabilitation plan for an eventual return to sport and work.

How long does an ACL tear take to heal?

The ACL has relatively poor blood flow and therefore cannot heal on its own. Most ACL injuries take approximately 12 months to rehabilitate post-surgery. This rehabilitation timeline is dependent on numerous variables, including age, gender, level of activity, athleticism, and injury severity. Non-surgical rehabilitation of an ACL injury is much rarer and is also dependent on the aforementioned variables.

How can VALD help ACL tear recovery?

VALD’s suite of human measurement technologies includes a range of systems which can assist in diagnosing and rehabilitating ACL tears.

The ForceDecks Dual Force Plate System allows practitioners to gather real-time feedback on relevant metrics, such as single leg and double leg jump height, squat mechanics, and balance and stability assessments.

The NordBord Hamstring Testing System can be used to measure hamstring strength and imbalance in various positions, providing an understanding as to how the muscles surrounding the ACL injury are progressing.

The ForceFrame Strength Testing System is a fully adjustable system which is used to test isometric strength in upper and lower body positions, including the knee and hip muscles, and joints which are vital to an ACL tear recovery.

VALD has also launched a handheld dynamometer and inclinometer named DynaMo capable of performing more than 300 strength and range of motions tests. These tests can be utilised to assess hamstring and quadriceps strength – both of which are important metrics to monitor throughout the rehabilitation process.

To learn more about DynaMo and how dynamometers can be used in the treatment of common conditions like an ACL tear, visit: valdhealth.com/dynamo.

A handheld dynamometer is used during post-surgery ACL tear rehabilitation
A handheld dynamometer is used during MCL tear rehabilitation

This article was written by Eddie Hess, an Accredited Exercise Physiologist with a Master’s in Clinical Exercise Physiology and a Bachelor in Exercise and Sports Science. Eddie specialises in musculoskeletal rehabilitation of post-surgical clients and has broad clinical experience.

What is Tennis Elbow? 

Tennis Elbow causes, symptoms, and treatments 

Tennis Elbow, or Lateral Epicondylitis, is the inflammation occurring in the tendon on the outside of the elbow. This condition usually arises when the wrist is actively bent backwards repetitively, such as when hitting a one-handed backhand during tennis. Pain may be present in the elbow, forearm, and wrist. 

Lateral Epicondylitis is a common injury for people who participate regularly in certain sports, including tennis or other activities which require this specific repeated movement of the arm.

A Physiotherapist or Exercise Physiologist can help diagnose Tennis Elbow
A Physiotherapist or Exercise Physiologist can help diagnose Tennis Elbow

What causes Tennis Elbow? 

Repetitive movements of the wrist extensor muscles, specifically the Extensor Carpi Radialis Brevis, may lead to overuse of the tendons attached to the elbow. This muscle is a strong wrist extensor and can easily become inflamed when overworked, especially during a sport such as tennis. 

Tennis Elbow is not restricted to athletes and those who play sport. While it commonly occurs in tennis players, many other non-athletic occupations require repetitive, forceful forearm extension movements such as plumbing, carpentry, painting and dentistry.  

It is also possible to develop Tennis Elbow even without a history of repetitive, forceful forearm extension movements. 

Tennis Elbow symptoms and when to see a professional 

Symptoms of Tennis Elbow include pain near the elbow, as well as weakness in the forearm and wrist. Pain will primarily occur where the forearm muscles attach to the outside of the elbow. This pain may present itself during daily activities such as opening a car door, lifting grocery bags, or shaking hands with someone. 

Pain in the elbow does not necessarily indicate Tennis Elbow. There are a range of common elbow conditions which may be present, including Golfer’s Elbow and bursitis. As such, when experiencing pain or discomfort in your elbow, it is advisable to talk to a qualified Physiotherapist or Exercise Physiologist. 

A Physio or Exercise Physiologist can use a handheld dynamometer – a device often used in a clinical setting for accurately measuring force – to help diagnose Tennis Elbow and other concerns. This assessment involves a patient applying force to the dynamometer and describing the severity and location of the pain, which the practitioner can then assess and use for diagnosis. 

How to treat Tennis Elbow 

There are a range of options available for the most effective Tennis Elbow treatment. Eliminating symptom-provoking activities is the first steps towards recovery. 

A brace may be used to relieve symptoms of Tennis Elbow by compressing and stabilising the injured tendon. A Tennis Elbow brace is worn on the forearm just below the elbow and should be applied snugly, with the support cushion placed on the outside of the elbow where the injured tendon needs support.  

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may also be taken to control inflammation and reduce pain. We recommend you consult your doctor before consuming any medication.

A Physiotherapist or Exercise Physiologist should be consulted in order to prescribe an appropriate exercise rehabilitation program. Most individuals suffering from Tennis Elbow will make a full recovery within a few months. 

If pain persists, as a last resort, corticosteroid injections or in some rare cases surgery may be an alternative course of treatment. 

How can VALD help with Tennis Elbow? 

VALD recently launched a handheld dynamometer and inclinometer named DynaMo capable of performing more than 300 strength and range of motion tests.  

Featuring five NFC-enabled Smart Attachments – including an adjustable Grip Strength Attachment – DynaMo allows practitioners to perform push and pull tests, measure grip strength and assess range of motion, with the objective data captured by the device stored automatically against a client’s profile.  

By using DynaMo to measure the resistance of force to the wrist and any presence of pain, practitioners can more accurately diagnose Lateral Epicondylitis and prescribe an appropriate rehabilitation program.  

To learn more about DynaMo and how dynamometers can be used in the treatment of common conditions like Tennis Elbow, visit: valdhealth.com/dynamo.

A handheld dynamometer is used in the diagnosis of Tennis Elbow
A handheld dynamometer is used in the diagnosis of Tennis Elbow

This article was written by Sasha Birge, a Physiotherapist currently pursuing a Master’s in Sports Physiotherapy, with a Bachelor of Science in Athletic Training and a background in strength and conditioning. Sasha has a specialist interest in sporting injuries and return-to-sport rehabilitation.

What is Golfer’s Elbow?

Golfer’s Elbow causes, symptoms, and treatments 

The presence of pain when applying force to a handheld dynamometer can indicate a range of conditions – including Medial Epicondylitis, or Golfer’s Elbow as it’s more commonly known. 

Golfer’s Elbow is an overuse injury caused by inflamed tendons on the inside of the elbow joint. It can also be known as Baseball Elbow, Forehand Tennis Elbow or even Suitcase Elbow.  It is characterised by pain from the elbow to the wrist on the medial – or inside – of the elbow.  

It’s a common complaint for individuals engaged in athletic pursuits such as golf, tennis or any other similar endeavour featuring repetitive use of the arms. 

An elbow brace can alleviate pain caused by Golfer's Elbow
An elbow brace can alleviate pain caused by Golfer's Elbow

What causes Golfer’s Elbow? 

Golfer’s Elbow usually occurs as a result of excessive force being applied to the forearm flexor tendons during a golf swing or similar movement.  

The onset of pain usually coincides with repetitive force application during a golf swing, tennis serve – particularly slice or kick serves, javelin throw, carrying a heavy suitcase or utilising hand tools on a repetitive basis. 

Recognising the signs and symptoms of Golfer’s Elbow 

The most common symptom of Golfer’s Elbow is pain on the inside of the elbow joint. The pain is usually felt when flexing the wrist towards the elbow, gripping, or persisting with the repetitive movement that caused the injury in the first place.  

Diagnosing a case of Golfer’s Elbow 

Golfer’s Elbow is most commonly diagnosed by a physical examination performed by a Physiotherapist, Doctor or Orthopaedic Specialist. The patient will be asked to resist force applied to the wrist. A positive diagnosis is indicated by pain occurring during the assessment. 

How to treat Golfer’s Elbow 

The initial and most common form of treatment for Golfer’s Elbow is to cease the repetitive activity that caused the symptoms to occur. Additional measures in the initial treatment phase include icing, bracing and anti-inflammatory medication. A Golfer’s Elbow brace will ensure that the elbow is compressed and stabilised, allowing it to heal properly. 

Once inflammation settles, an Exercise Physiologist or Physiotherapist should be consulted in order to prescribe an appropriate exercise rehabilitation program. In most cases, Golfer’s Elbow takes approximately three to six months to heal.  

If pain persists, as a last resort, corticosteroid injections or in some rare cases surgery may be an alternative course of treatment.   

How can VALD help with Golfer’s Elbow? 

VALD recently launched a handheld dynamometer and inclinometer named DynaMo capable of performing more than 300 strength and range of motion tests. 

Featuring five NFC-enabled Smart Attachments – including an adjustable Grip Strength Attachment – DynaMo allows practitioners to perform push and pull tests, measure grip strength and assess range of motion, with the objective data captured by the device stored automatically against a client’s profile. 

By using DynaMo to measure the resistance of force to the wrist and any presence of pain, practitioners can more accurately diagnose Medial Epicondylitis and prescribe an appropriate rehabilitation program. 

To learn more about DynaMo and how dynamometers can be used in the treatment of common conditions like Golfer’s Elbow, visit: valdhealth.com/dynamo. 

A handheld dynamometer is used to diagnose Golfer's Elbow
A handheld dynamometer is used to diagnose Golfer's Elbow

This article was written by Eddie Hess, an Accredited Exercise Physiologist with a Master’s in Clinical Exercise Physiology and a Bachelor in Exercise and Sports Science. Eddie specialises in musculoskeletal rehabilitation of post-surgical clients and has broad clinical experience.