Exercise-induced Leg Pain | How Physiotherapy Can Help You Get Back On Track

 Exercise is essential for maintaining good health, but sometimes it can lead to unwanted discomfort — particularly leg pain. Whether you're an athlete, a weekend warrior, or someone just beginning a new fitness routine, leg pain triggered by physical activity is a common issue. Known as Exercise-Induced Leg Pain (EILP), this condition can interfere with performance, delay progress, and even lead to long-term injury if left unaddressed.

   Fortunately, physiotherapy offers a proven, non-invasive way to manage, treat, and even prevent exercise-induced leg pain. In this blog, we’ll explore the common causes of EILP, how physiotherapists diagnose it, and the variety of treatments they use to help patients recover and return to activity pain-free.

 

What is Exercise-Induced Leg Pain?

Exercise-Induced Leg Pain refers to discomfort or pain in the leg that arises during or after physical activity. It can affect different areas of the leg — from the hips to the feet — and may involve muscles, tendons, bones, or joints. The pain can range from a dull ache to a sharp or throbbing sensation and may be temporary or persistent depending on the underlying cause.

 

Common Causes of Exercise-Induced Leg Pain

Understanding the root cause is key to effective treatment. Some of the most common causes of EILP include:

1. Shin Splints (Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome)

A frequent condition in runners and dancers, shin splints result from overuse of the shinbone and surrounding tissues. Pain typically occurs along the inner edge of the tibia and worsens with activity.

2. Delayed-Onset Muscle Soreness (DOMS)

DOMS causes muscle pain and stiffness 24–72 hours after intense or unfamiliar exercise. It is usually self-limiting but can be quite uncomfortable.

3. Muscle Strains

Overstretching or tearing of muscle fibers, often in the calves or hamstrings, can cause sudden or progressive leg pain.

4. Compartment Syndrome

This is a condition where pressure builds up within the muscles, limiting blood flow. Chronic exertional compartment syndrome (CECS) is triggered by exercise and relieved by rest.

5. Stress Fractures

Tiny cracks in bones, often the tibia or metatarsals, are caused by repetitive stress. Pain worsens with activity and improves with rest.

6. Tendinopathies

Inflammation or degeneration of tendons, such as the Achilles or patellar tendon, can lead to persistent leg pain with exercise.

 

How Physiotherapy Helps?

Physiotherapists are trained movement specialists who assess, diagnose, and treat musculoskeletal conditions like EILP. Their holistic approach focuses not just on relieving pain, but also on identifying and correcting the underlying dysfunction to prevent recurrence.

1. Accurate Assessment and Diagnosis

The first step is a detailed assessment. A physiotherapist will take a complete history, analyze movement patterns, evaluate strength and flexibility, and perform special tests to pinpoint the source of pain.

2. Pain Relief Techniques

·       Physiotherapists use a combination of manual therapy, electrotherapy (like TENS or ultrasound), ice/heat application, and soft tissue release techniques to reduce pain and inflammation.

3. Exercise Therapy

Targeted exercises are central to physiotherapy. These include:

·       Stretching tight muscles (e.g., calves, hamstrings)

·       Strengthening weak or imbalanced muscle groups

·       Neuromuscular re-education to improve coordination and balance

·       Gradual loading programs for conditions like tendinopathy or stress fractures

4. Biomechanical Correction

Abnormal movement patterns, poor posture, or improper footwear can contribute to leg pain. Physiotherapists analyze gait and running form and may recommend:

·       Orthotics or supportive footwear

·       Technique adjustments for sports or gym training

5. Return-to-Activity Planning

Your physiotherapist will guide you through a structured return-to-sport or exercise plan, ensuring you resume activity safely without triggering a relapse. This often includes graded exposure, activity modification, and cross-training options during recovery.

6. Education and Prevention

One of the greatest benefits of physiotherapy is the education it provides. You’ll learn how to:

·       Warm up and cool down effectively

·       Use proper technique

·       Recognize early warning signs

·       Cross-train and rest appropriately

·       Avoid overtraining and burnout.

 

When to Seek Physiotherapy?

You should consider seeing a physiotherapist if:

·       The leg pain persists for more than a few days

·       Pain worsens with activity or doesn’t improve with rest

·       There's swelling, numbness, or weakness in the leg

·       Your performance is being impacted

·       You’ve had recurrent leg pain with exercise

Exercise-induced leg pain can be frustrating, but it doesn't have to derail your fitness goals. With the right diagnosis and a personalized treatment plan, physiotherapy offers an effective solution to relieve pain, correct imbalances, and prevent future injury. Don’t let pain stop you — consult a physiotherapist and take the first step toward a stronger, pain-free return to the activities you love.

 

If you’d like help managing your exercise-related leg pain, consider booking a consultation with a qualified physiotherapist near you. Prevention, recovery, and performance — it all starts with the right movement.

Protect Your Spine Before It Slips | How Physiotherapy Helps Prevent Disc Herniation?

 

 

Disc herniation, a common cause of lower back pain, is often perceived as an unavoidable consequence of aging or strenuous activity. While genetics and wear and tear play a role, the truth is that a proactive approach, heavily reliant on physiotherapy, can significantly reduce your risk of developing this debilitating condition. Instead of viewing physiotherapy as a treatment for existing problems, we should embrace it as a powerful preventative measure for maintaining a healthy spine and avoiding the pain and limitations associated with disc herniation.

 

Understanding Disc Herniation

Before delving into the preventative role of physiotherapy, let's briefly understand what causes a disc herniation. Intervertebral discs, the cushions between your vertebrae, are composed of a tough outer layer (annulus fibrosus) and a soft, gel-like inner core (nucleus pulposus). When the annulus fibrosus weakens or tears, the nucleus pulposus can bulge or rupture, potentially pressing on nearby nerves and causing pain, numbness, and weakness. This weakening and tearing is often a gradual process, influenced by several factors:

1. Poor Posture: Slouching, hunching, and prolonged sitting with poor posture put excessive stress on the spine, accelerating disc degeneration.

2. Weakness in Core Muscles: Weak abdominal and back muscles fail to provide adequate support to the spine, increasing the load on the intervertebral discs.

3. Repetitive Movements: Performing the same movements repeatedly, especially those involving twisting or lifting heavy objects, can strain the discs.

4. Lack of Physical Activity: Inactivity leads to muscle weakness, stiffness, and reduced flexibility, making the spine more vulnerable to injury.

5. Obesity: Excess weight adds extra stress to the spine, accelerating disc degeneration.

This is where physiotherapy steps in as a crucial preventative measure.

Preventive Role of Physiotherapy

A well-structured physiotherapy program addresses all these risk factors, promoting spinal health and significantly reducing the chances of disc herniation. Here's how:

 

1. Improving Posture and Body Mechanics:

Physiotherapists teach patients proper posture techniques for sitting, standing, and lifting. This involves correcting postural imbalances, strengthening weak muscles, and learning safe lifting techniques to minimize strain on the spine. They might use ergonomic assessments to tailor advice to your specific workspace and lifestyle.

2. Strengthening Core Muscles: 

A strong core is the foundation of a healthy spine. Physiotherapists prescribe exercises that target the deep abdominal muscles (transverse abdominis) and back muscles, improving spinal stability and reducing the load on the intervertebral discs. These exercises can range from simple planks and bridges to more advanced stability ball exercises, tailored to the individual's fitness level.

3. Enhancing Flexibility and Range of Motion: 

Stiffness and reduced flexibility can make the spine more susceptible to injury. Physiotherapists use techniques like stretching, mobilization, and manipulation to improve the range of motion in the spine and surrounding muscles, promoting healthy movement patterns. This helps to maintain the flexibility of the spine and reduces the risk of sudden strains.

4. Educating on Ergonomics: Physiotherapists provide guidance on maintaining proper posture and body mechanics at work and at home. This includes advice on workstation setup, lifting techniques, and choosing appropriate footwear. By understanding how daily activities impact the spine, individuals can actively prevent unnecessary strain.

5. Weight Management: For individuals who are overweight or obese, physiotherapy often incorporates strategies for weight loss. Reducing excess weight significantly lessens the burden on the spine, reducing the risk of disc herniation and other spinal problems. This might involve referral to a nutritionist or dietitian, alongside exercise plans designed to support weight loss goals.

6. Promoting Physical Activity: Physiotherapists encourage regular physical activity, focusing on activities that strengthen the core muscles and improve flexibility, like swimming, yoga, and walking. They create personalized exercise programs that cater to individual needs and preferences, ensuring adherence and enjoyment, thus making exercise a sustainable lifestyle change.

7. Early Intervention for Back Pain: Even minor episodes of back pain should not be ignored. Physiotherapists can provide early intervention to address the underlying causes of pain, preventing the progression to more serious conditions like disc herniation. This may involve manual therapy, modalities like laser, Tens, ultrasound, or heat, and targeted exercises to manage pain and inflammation.

 

        The preventative role of physiotherapy in reducing the risk of disc herniation cannot be overstated. By addressing the key risk factors – poor posture, weak core muscles, repetitive movements, lack of physical activity, and obesity – physiotherapy empowers individuals to take control of their spinal health.

Instead of waiting for pain to develop, proactive engagement with physiotherapy can be a game-changer, ensuring a healthy and pain-free back for years to come. Remember, prevention is always better than cure, and physiotherapy provides the tools and knowledge to prevent disc herniation before it even begins. Consult a physiotherapist to develop a personalized plan tailored to your specific needs and risk factors.

What’s Causing That Pain Under Your Shoulder Blade? 7 Possible Reasons And How Physiotherapy Can Help You Fix It

 Pain under the shoulder blade (also called the scapula) can be a nagging, uncomfortable issue that interferes with daily life. Whether it appears as a dull ache or a sharp stab, this kind of pain can stem from a variety of causes—some minor, others more serious. Fortunately, physiotherapy plays a vital role not only in treating such pain but also in preventing it from becoming a recurring problem.

       In this blog, we’ll explore seven common causes of pain under the shoulder blade and how physiotherapy helps manage and prevent this issue effectively.

 

1. Poor Posture

Cause:

One of the most common causes of shoulder blade pain is poor posture, especially from prolonged sitting, slouching, or looking down at screens. Over time, this can lead to muscle imbalances, tightness in the chest, and overstretching of the upper back muscles.

Role of Physiotherapy:

Physiotherapists assess your posture, identify imbalances, and teach corrective exercises to improve spinal alignment. Ergonomic training, postural correction, and strengthening of the upper back can prevent the recurrence of this pain.

 

2. Muscle Strain or Overuse

Cause:

Lifting heavy objects, sudden twisting movements, or repetitive overhead activities can strain muscles like the rhomboids or trapezius, which sit near the shoulder blade.

 

Role of Physiotherapy:

After identifying the affected muscles, your physio will use soft tissue release, ultrasound, or dry needling to reduce muscle tension. They will also guide you through proper warm-up routines and muscle conditioning to prevent future injuries.

 

3. Cervical Spine Issues (Neck Problems)

Cause:

A herniated disc or degenerative changes in the cervical spine can compress nerves that refer pain to the shoulder blade area. This is often accompanied by neck stiffness or radiating arm pain.

Role of Physiotherapy:

Physios perform a comprehensive neuro-musculoskeletal assessment to pinpoint cervical involvement. Treatment may include manual therapy, traction, nerve glides, and targeted neck and scapular strengthening to relieve referred pain and restore function.

 

4. Scapular Dyskinesis

Cause:

This condition refers to the abnormal movement of the shoulder blade due to weakness, tightness, or imbalances in the scapular stabilizing muscles. It often affects athletes and people with repetitive overhead movements.

Role of Physiotherapy:

Rehabilitation focuses on restoring proper scapulohumeral rhythm through retraining of the serratus anterior, lower trapezius, and rotator cuff muscles. This helps the shoulder blade move smoothly and efficiently, reducing stress and pain.

 

5. Myofascial Trigger Points

Cause:

Trigger points or "knots" in the upper back muscles can cause referred pain under the shoulder blade. These may develop due to prolonged static positions or emotional stress.

Role of Physiotherapy:

Physiotherapists use techniques like myofascial release, dry needling, and stretching to deactivate trigger points. Education on stress management and postural awareness is also a key preventive tool.

 

6. Gallbladder or Other Referred Pain

Cause:

Though rare, certain internal organs can cause referred pain under the shoulder blade. For example, gallbladder issues often refer pain to the right scapular region. Similarly, cardiac or lung problems may mimic musculoskeletal pain.

Role of Physiotherapy:

A skilled physiotherapist is trained to recognize red flags. If your pain doesn’t fit a musculoskeletal pattern, they will refer you to a medical doctor for further evaluation. Early detection can be life-saving.

 

7. Thoracic Spine Dysfunction

Cause:

Dysfunction in the mid-back or thoracic spine, such as joint stiffness, poor mobility, or vertebral misalignment, can lead to localized or referred pain under the shoulder blade.

Role of Physiotherapy:

Physios use mobilization, spinal manipulation, and targeted exercises to restore thoracic spine mobility. They may also recommend strengthening exercises to stabilize the spine and scapula for long-term relief.

 

How Physiotherapy Prevents Shoulder Blade Pain?

Physiotherapy doesn’t just relieve pain—it prevents recurrence. Here’s how:

1. Postural Training: Educating patients about optimal sitting, standing, and workstation ergonomics.
2. Strengthening Weak Muscles: Addressing muscular imbalances, especially in the scapular stabilizers and core.
3. Movement Correction: Teaching correct lifting techniques and movement patterns.
4. Flexibility Improvement: Restoring flexibility in tight structures like the pectorals, upper trapezius, or levator scapulae.
5. Education: Empowering patients with knowledge about their body, contributing factors, and injury prevention strategies.

 

When to See a Physiotherapist?

If your shoulder blade pain:

1. Persists for more than a few days,

2. Worsens with movement or activity,

3. Radiates to the arm or neck,

4. Or interferes with daily activities, 
Then it’s time to consult a physiotherapist.

 

Early intervention can significantly reduce pain duration, improve mobility, and prevent chronic issues from developing. Pain under the shoulder blade is more than just an inconvenience—it can signal underlying biomechanical or systemic issues. Physiotherapy plays a crucial role not just in treating the symptoms but in identifying root causes, correcting movement patterns, and empowering you to prevent recurrence. Don’t let pain linger. Consult a physiotherapist and take proactive steps toward a pain-free, active life.

 

Need help with shoulder blade pain?

CB Physiotherapy offers personalized assessments and expert care to get you back on track. Book a session today and experience the difference.