The Physio Diary

As surprising as it might sound, a physiotherapist is like the unsung hero for people managing arthritis. If arthritis were a noisy engine, your physio would be the mechanic keeping it from stalling completely. This week’s post is here to help you finally understand that thing called arthritis. You’ve probably heard about it from friends or family (or even felt its presence in your own knees), but what exactly is going on in there? Let’s break it down. Arthritis, Simplified: A Tale of Two Stones Let’s make this easy to picture. Imagine two stones touching each other. Now, scratch them together gently. Not bad, right? Now press harder and grind them. Yes, that grinding sensation? That’s arthritis in action. Here’s what’s happening: In a healthy joint, synovial fluid acts as a cushion between the bones, allowing smooth, pain-free movement. Over time, due to aging, repetitive strain, or other factors, that fluid can decrease. Without the cushion, the bones begin to rub directly against e...

Exercise is supposed to be the ultimate stress reliever, right? The thing that makes you feel invincible, like you can take on the world. For fitness enthusiasts, it’s pure joy—a dose of happy hormones and the thrill of progress. But for the rest of us mere mortals? Exercise can sometimes leave us feeling like we’ve been hit by a truck. Why? Because you wake up the next day and—surprise!—you’re sore all over. Your arms feel like noodles, your legs are protesting every movement, and even lifting your morning coffee feels like a workout. Sound familiar? Welcome to the not-so-glamorous world of Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness (DOMS). Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness: The Silent Saboteur of New Year Resolutions Just like the name says, Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness (DOMS) is that delayed soreness that creeps in after rest—usually after putting your muscles through more work than they’re used to. It doesn’t hit right away. No, DOMS is sneakier than that. It waits a day or two before announcing i...

Have you ever felt that irresistible urge to snuggle up when the cold weather hits? Whether it’s sharing warmth with a loved one or bundling up in your coziest blanket, staying warm isn’t just a comforting habit—it’s essential for your health and well-being. But why is warmth so important? As warm-blooded creatures, our bodies work tirelessly to maintain a stable internal temperature, even in the coldest conditions. This post delves into the fascinating reasons why staying warm is crucial and how it impacts your overall health. Why Does the Body Need Warmth? The human body is designed to maintain a stable internal temperature, thanks to our warm blood. Blood circulation helps distribute heat throughout the body, keeping it at an optimal temperature regardless of external conditions. This process is regulated by blood vessels: In warm conditions, blood vessels dilate (widen) to release heat. In cold conditions, they constrict (narrow) to retain heat and protect vital organs....

On your mark. Get set. Go ! The new year is here, and the race to better health is on. Across the 2025 track field, we see people striving to meet their fitness goals. Just as Usain Bolt, one of the greatest sprinters in history, emphasized preparation and strategy to lead and finish strong, so too must we approach exercise with care and intention. Today, the race is no longer confined to the track—it happens in gyms, parks, and even our living rooms. But what does it truly mean to exercise? What Really Is Exercise? Let’s debunk a common myth: Exercise is more than just walking to your house or doing household chores. While these contribute to physical movement, true exercise involves structure and intentionality. So, what qualifies as exercise? Exercise refers to any physical activity that is planned, structured, and repetitive, performed with the purpose of improving or maintaining physical fitness, health, or overall well-being. It could include walking, but only if the...