The Australian Open is proving to be yet again one of Melbourne City top sporting events. With the temperature sitting in the 30’s and some cracking games already having been played, no doubt many of you have been inspired to get the tennis racquet out of the cupboard and have a hit again.

If it has been some time since you last hit a few balls, then be sure to hydrate yourself and warm your body up properly. The risk of developing DOMS (delayed onset muscle soreness) in either your shoulders, arms, back or legs is likely to be high if you have’t graced the tennis court in sometime. Typically these symptoms of stiffness and muscle soreness will persist for several days. If however you develop pain either during the game or pain that persists beyond a few days, the likelihood of straining something is probably quite high.

Common tennis injuries include the following and it is important to not push through the pain if it develops.

Tennis Elbow – Pain typically develops over the lateral forearm area where the forearm extensors attach to the lateral epicondyle. This is typically an overuse related injury. So be mindful of this starting to cause pain. If pain develops, rest and ice is your best measure in the first 24 – 48 hours. Other factors that need to be considered in regards to contributing factors to this injury include racquet weight, grip size, backhand technique. If you are likely to be playing tennis more often, then have your racquet and technique assessed by a qualified tennis coach.

The next P4O blog will look at other common injuries and what can be done to prevent and better manage these. Osteopath Heath Williams is owner and director of Principle Four Osteoapthy www.principlefourosteopathy.com. Principle Four Osteopathy is located in the heart of the Melbourne City CBD 3000 at 29 Somerset Place, Melbourne City CBD 30000. To make an appointment or speak to an Osteopath, please call 03 9670 9290.