The newest member of our osteo team, Jesse, who has a particular interest and experience in treating injuries and managing pain in footy players, has some great tips to make the 2025 season your best yet.
Footy pre-season is just around the corner, and now is the perfect time to get your body sorted! After the off-season and a well earned rest, your body is likely a little deconditioned, and a sudden increase in training load—especially running—can put you at a higher risk of injury. Overuse injuries like shin splints, tendinopathies, and muscle strains are common, along with lingering issues from last season, such as sprained ankles or shoulders. Now is the time to address these niggles before they affect your performance in the upcoming season.
How can osteopathy help?
Osteopaths take a hands-on, full-body approach to managing pain and injury. We use a combination of hands-on treatment, education, exercise prescription, and lifestyle modifications to get the best results for you. Whether you're recovering from a past injury or preparing for the intense demands of footy, osteopathy can help get your body in top shape.
Top Tips for Pre-Season Preparation:
Gradually increase your training load
Jumping straight into intense training can overwhelm your body, especially with the high running demands of footy. Start by gradually increasing your running distance before focusing on speed or intensity. Building endurance first is key—remember, footy is not just fast-paced, but also an endurance sport, with players often running 8-10 km in a single game! Also, don't underestimate the importance of rest. Your body needs recovery time to strengthen and adapt to the training load.Check your boots
How old are your footy boots? Ideally, you should replace your boots every 6-9 months to ensure they're still offering the support and protection your feet need. It's also crucial to get your boots professionally fitted, rather than purchasing online. A good fit is essential for injury prevention—poorly fitting boots can lead to hip, knee and foot problems like plantar fasciitis. Choose comfort and fit over style to keep your feet in top condition throughout the season.Focus on strength and conditioning
Sport-specific strength and conditioning programs are a great way to reduce injury risk. Targeting the muscles used in footy will improve your strength, coordination, and balance, ultimately helping you stay injury-free. For example, the Footy First program is designed to boost strength and prevent common injuries like hamstring strains by focusing on lower limb stability. A well-rounded conditioning program will give you the physical resilience to handle the demands of footy.
Disclaimer: These recommendations are generalised and are not to be taken as personal injury advice. Please consult your osteopath for individualised care.