01487 843 844 
info@hardingphysiotherapy.co.uk 

Latest News from Harding Physiotherapy 

 
National Exercise Day – 18th April 2025 
It’s time to put away that smart phone or computer, get off the couch and get moving! If the weather is fine, it would be a great time to take a quick walk or go for a jog. And if it’s still a little cold outside, do some inside aerobic movement such as a treadmill walk or a dance workout. With lots of options based on preference, it’s easy to get involved with National Exercise Day! 
How to Celebrate National Exercise Day 
Show some love for your body by getting involved with National Exercise Day. Get creative with ways to get involved, including some of these: 
Get Moving 
The best way to get started celebrating National Exercise Day is to get moving. Some people might have started a resolution for exercise on New Year’s Day that is a long and distance memory. That’s okay! It’s never too late to begin a new habit, so take this opportunity to put on your trainers and get out to do some exercise. 
Remember the Benefits of Exercise 
Though most people know, here are some little reminders of how important exercise is to the body and mind: 
• Exercise can reduce the risk of disease including heart disease, diabetes, and even cancer. 
• Exercise strengthens the bones, preventing brittleness and osteoporosis in old age. 
• Exercise boosts energy, improves the mood and offers an overall better quality of life. 
Get an Exercise Buddy 
One of the most difficult things about starting a new habit of exercise is lack of accountability. Invite your partner to buddy up with you in a new habit of exercise. Folks who live alone could find a neighbour or friend who would make a good accountability partner and motivator. Make plans to meet up for a walk, go for a bicycle ride, or go through a strength training course at the local park/gym. Whatever kind of exercise it is, it’s almost always better with a buddy! https://nationaltoday.com/national-exercise-day/ 
 
World Sleep Day – 15th March 2025 
World Sleep Day 2025 stands as a beacon of awareness in our busy lives, reminding us of the critical role sleep plays in our health and well-being. This day emphasises the need to adopt healthy sleep habits for a better, more productive life. 
 
What is World Sleep Day? 
Initiated by the World Sleep Society, World Sleep Day is an annual event focusing on the importance of sleep. It is a call to action on issues related to sleep, including medicine, education, social aspects, and driving. It aims to lessen the burden of sleep problems on society through better prevention and management of sleep disorders. 
 
When is World Sleep Day? 
In 2025, World Sleep Day will be observed on March 15th, aligning with the Friday before the Spring Vernal Equinox. It’s a day where individuals, healthcare providers, and educators come together to discuss and learn about the significance of good sleep. 
 
How to Get Involved:- 
• Educate Yourself and Others: Utilize resources provided by the World Sleep Society to learn more about sleep health. 
• Participate in Events: Attend or organize local events that promote the message of World Sleep Day. 
• Spread the Word: Use social media to share information and experiences about the importance of good sleep, using hashtags like #WorldSleepDay and #HealthySleep2025. 
• Promote Good Sleep Habits: Encourage practices like regular sleep schedules, comfortable sleep environments, and healthy lifestyle choices. 
The Benefits of Good Sleep 
Quality sleep is crucial for our physical and mental health. It improves cognition, concentration, productivity, and overall mental health. On World Sleep Day, we emphasize the need to address sleep disorders and promote habits leading to quality sleep. 
 
Conclusion 
World Sleep Day 2025 offers an opportunity to pause and reflect on our sleep patterns. Sleep helps you to recharge—both physically and mentally. While you sleep your body is busy doing important jobs to ensure you wake up refreshed and healthy. Your brain is cleaning itself of waste products and consolidating memories. Your muscles, bones, and organs are repairing themselves.  
 
For more infomation on optimising your sleep, see https://thesleepcharity.org.uk/ 
 
 
The start of a new year is the perfect time to refocus on what really matters - our health, wellbeing, and how we can take small steps to prevent illness and injuries. 
 
Awareness events are a great way to shine a spotlight on matters that are important to our health and wellbeing. They bring people together, open up conversations that might otherwise be overlooked, and give a voice to those living with health and fitness challenges. 
So, what’s coming up in 2025. 
New Year, New You 
 
We held the first of our free health and wellbeing events on 28th January 2025. This event was for those returning to the gym or starting fresh, looking to ramp up their running routine, or keen on improving their diet & nutrition. The evening was presented by our expert Sports Therapist, Edward Manning, BSC in Sports & Exercise Science; Masters in Sports Therapy.  
We are planning on holding further evening presentations, once a month, on topics which we feel will be of interest to new and existing clients.  
These events will be part of a series of free education evenings at our clinic. Each one will focus on a different topic (so far, we have back pain and sports injuries in the pipeline) so keep an eye out for something that could benefit your health. 
 
We hope to see you there! 
 
Is knee pain slowing you down? 
 
Knee pain affects most people at some point in their lives. It is usually associated with common activities of daily living. While the pain may be considerable and may limit your lifestyle, there are many things that can be done to alleviate it. There are many different types of treatment available to address the symptoms and underlying causes associated with knee pain. Typical treatment options may include; 
 
Physiotherapy/Sports Therapy 
• Podiatry 
• Over the counter medication. 
• Complementary medicines such as acupuncture (which we offer at the clinic). 
Physiotherapist/Sports Therapists are skilled in prescribing exercises to improve strength, flexibility, balance and posture by means of a thorough examination. Your treatment programme will therefore be individualised to ensure the best possible outcome for your knee. Treatment may also include:- 
 
• Joint mobilisation and soft tissue massage 
• Heat/cold treatment 
• Electrical stimulation 
• Knee taping/bracing 
• Advice and education about how best to manage your condition 
• Facilitation to return to sport and other functional activities 
 
How can you help to manage your pain? 
 
Here are some of the ways to help manage your pain: 
 
 Take your medication if prescribed by your doctor/pharmacist 
 Do you exercises as prescribed by your Physiotherapist/Sports Therapist 
 Use heat or cold treatments to assist with flare ups of your pain. Your Therapist will advise which treatment is best for your knee. 
 Stay positive and try not to focus on your knee pain. Your Therapist can advise you how to modify your activities in order to maximise your participation in things you enjoy doing. 
 Relaxation is important in lowering stress levels, reducing muscle tension and improving your overall sense of well being. 
 
For more information on knee pain : https://www.csp.org.uk/conditions/knee-pain 
 
 
Happy 2025, everyone! We're kicking off the year with a FREE educational event at our clinic (with more to come)! 
 
January is the time of year that many of us reflect on our lives and think about any changes that we'd like to make. Everyone has different goals, but it's quite common for people to want to prioritise their health. Life can be chaotic and this means that sometimes we put our health and wellbeing on the back burner, but taking care of ourselves physically and mentally is so important. 
 
If you want to get focused on your health and start the new year on the right foot, then our event is for you. We'll be talking about: 
 
How to safely return to or start exercising 
Tips for running or going to the gym 
How our diet and nutrition can impact our health 
 
During the event, our Sports Therapist, Ed Manning, will give a presentation and talk about each of these areas, followed by an informal Q&A session where you can ask us any questions that we might be able to help with. We'll provide tea, coffee and cold drinks during the second half. 
 
The evening entirely free of charge and everyone is welcome, however we only have room for 20 people, so if you'd like to come, please book your place here. 
 
DATE: 28th January 2025 
TIME: 6pm sharp - 7pm 
PLACE: Harding Physiotherapy, 2 West Newlands, Somersham, Huntingdon, Cambridgeshire, PE28 3EB 
 
But wait, there's more! This event will be part of a series of free education evenings at our clinic. Each one will focus on a different topic (so far, we have back pain and sports injuries in the pipeline) so keep an eye out for something that could benefit your health. 
 
We hope to see you there! 
OUR NEW STUDIO SPACE IS OPEN! 
 
We have exciting news! We can finally announce that we've extended our clinic to include a bright and airy studio space, with its own fully-equipped bathroom. Plus, we've added a new therapy room where Matt will be taking his appointments from now on. 
 
We have BIG plans for this space in the future but they're currently a work in progress. So right now, we're looking to rent it out. It would be perfect for exercise classes, like yoga, Pilates, thai chi, and so on. You can watch a tour of the studio on our Instagram, but if you'd like to find out more or come and take a look for yourself, please get in touch.  
 
The team at Evergreen Property Services worked so hard on transforming this space for us, so we would like to say a huge thank you to them! If you're looking for a local design, building or landscaping team, we highly recommend getting them involved. 
 
Taking care of your joints in winter 
 
The cold snap is officially here. When the temperature drops, our joints can stiffen up, which can cause aches and pains. People with joint and inflammatory conditions, like arthritis, might be especially vulnerable to the change in weather.  
 
Here are some ways that you can take care of your joints and reduce the risk of pain: 
 
Stay warm: Put your heating on regularly (the NHS recommends that the temperature of your home should be at least 18 degrees) and if you're feeling cold, make sure that you wrap up, covering your hands and knees. Wearing layers should ease the shock of the cold weather on your body.  
Move your body: Staying active can help with joint pain. Move in a way that feels comfortable to you; if you prefer a low impact activity, you could try swimming, walking or stretching. If you're not able to go outside, try moving your body gently inside. 
Wear sturdy footwear: When you're out and about, make sure that the soles of your shoes have good grip so that you don't slip on ice and injure yourself. 
Eat balanced meals: Put foods on your plate that contain calcium and vitamin d, as they both support your bone health. 
Get help if you need it: If you have a new pain or injury, physiotherapy might be able to help. It's best to speak to a professional as soon as possible so that you can make sure that you're treating your concern in the right way and not making it worse. 
 
For more information on taking care of your joints and bones in the winter months, visit NHS or Versus Arthritis  
 
If you're experiencing a problem with your joints or mobility, our friendly team of physiotherapy experts will be happy to help. We're based in Somersham, Cambridgeshire, around 10 minutes away from St Ives. You can call us on 01487 843 844, or email info@hardingphysiotherapy.co.uk. 
 
National Stress Awareness Day 
 
There's no getting away from it - life can be stressful. Things like work, care responsibilities and money can add a certain amount of pressure and sometimes we might feel overwhelmed with the chaos of trying to manage everything. Because stress is so common (research shows that one in nine adults feel stressed every single day) it's often normalised and accepted as part of life. However, feeling stressed regularly or for long periods of time can have a serious affect on our health and wellbeing.  
 
The 6th November is National Stress Awareness Day and it's a chance for all of us to check in with our stress levels and think about how we can manage them better. We might not be able to avoid stress completely but it's important to recognise when we're feeling stressed so that we can make changes and undo some pressure. 
 
We tend to be aware of how stress can impact our minds - we might feel wound up, irritable, angry, anxious and overburderend. But did you know that stress can take a toll on your body too? 
 
Physical signs of stress: 
 
Difficulty breathing  
Muscle aches and tension in your body 
Chest pains 
Stomach problems 
High blood pressure 
Racing heartbeat 
Difficulty sleeping 
 
Find a full list of symptoms on the NHS website. 
 
Ways to manage stress: 
 
Spend time outdoors - Being in nature, taking care of plants or looking after animals are all shown to reduce our stress levels. 
Move your body - When we exercise, our body releases endorphins which make us feel good and relieve stress. If you need to take it easy, you could try walking, gentle yoga or chair exercises
Make time for self-care - Sometimes it can be difficult to find time for ourselves and just relax, but it makes a world of difference. You could have a hot bath, watch a TV programme or read a book with no interruptions. 
Organise your time - Look at your schedule and prioritise your tasks. Remember, there's only so many hours in the day and you need time to relax, too. 
Set boundaries - If we say yes to everything, we might be left with no time for ourselves. If someone asks you to do something that you don't have time or energy for, it's okay to say no. 
 
There's more information about managing stress on Mind's website. 
 
Is pain or a mobility issue causing you to feel stressed? 
 
Physiotherapy might be able to help. Visit our friendly team of physiotherapy experts for advice and treatment to help you move (and live) better. We're based on the Somersham industrial estate in Cambridgeshire, near St Ives and Huntingdon. Give us a call on 01487 843 844 or email info@hardingphysiotherapy.co.uk. 
 
 
 
Backcare Awareness Week – 14th to 20th October 2024 
 
At Harding Physiotherapy, back pain is one of the most common things that we treat. Lots of people will experience back pain at some point in their life, for all kinds of reasons. You might have lifted something awkwardly, stayed in one position for too long or exercised more than usual. The good news is that there things you can do to prevent and manage back pain. 
 
This is where Backcare Awareness Week comes in. Every year, this campaign aims to raise awareness of the importance of good back health and educate people about preventing and managing back pain. By prioritisng spinal health, adopting effective postures and making certain lifestyle changes, we can optimise and support our back health, which improves our overall wellbeing (win, win).  
 
You can find more information about taking care of your back (and your other bones and muscles) here: 
 
Wondering how to get involved with Backcare Awareness Week 2024? 
 
Take this opportunity to learn about how you can support your back health create good back health habits - you could also share what you've learned with others. Here are some ways to get involved:  
 
1. Educate yourself: Learn about proper posture, back care techniques, and exercises that can help maintain a healthy spine. 
2. Share information: Share back care tips, resources, and articles on social media to raise awareness and educate your network. 
3. Support back health initiatives: Get involved in local events, workshops, or activities related to back care and spinal health. 
4. Encourage workplace ergonomics: Advocate for ergonomic workplace practices that support good posture and back health among employees. 
5. Take breaks and stretch: If you have a sedentary job, make an effort to take regular breaks and incorporate stretching exercises into your daily routine. 
6. Seek professional advice: If you experience persistent back pain or discomfort, consult a healthcare professional or physiotherapist for guidance and treatment. 
 
Are you struggling with back pain? 
 
We can help! Visit our friendly team of physiotherapy experts for advice and treatment to help you move (and live) better. We're based on the Somersham industrial estate in Cambridgeshire, near St Ives and Huntingdon. Give us a call on 01487 843 844 or email info@hardingphysiotherapy.co.uk.  
 
World PT Day – 8th September 2024 
 
In 1996, 8th September was designated as World PT Day. This is the date World Physiotherapy was founded in 1951. 
The day marks the unity and solidarity of the global physiotherapy community. It is an opportunity to recognise the work that physiotherapists do for their patients and community. Using World PT Day as a focus, World Physiotherapy aims to support member organisations in their efforts to promote the profession and advance their expertise. 
Many World Physiotherapy member organisations already have their own national physiotherapy days, weeks and months.  
However, organisations that have no designated day of their own often choose 8th September. https://world.physio/wptday. 
Cycle to Work Day – 1st August 2024  
Cycle to Work Day is the UK’s biggest cycling commuting event. This year workers all around the country will be encouraged to get on their bikes and get into work the best way possible – on two wheels (or three for tricyclists!) 
It’s an event for everyone, from people who haven’t hopped on a bike since their school days to committed cycle commuters. 
What matters is jumping on a bike, giving it a go and joining a community of cyclists sharing all that’s good about cycling to work. 
 
DID YOU KNOW? 
 
We offer an acupuncture service at Harding Physiotherapy. All our Therapists are fully trained to be able to offer acupuncture as part of the treatment for your musculskeletal pain and injuries, if it is clinically indicated. If you would like to know more, either contact us at the clinic or speak to one of our Therapists next time you are in the clinic. 
 
What is Acupuncture 
It involves the insertion of very fine stainless steel needles into the skin. There is a growing body of scientific evidence and clinical research supporting its effectiveness. It can be used in physiotherapy to treat a wide range of common health problems and to reduce pain. 
 
How does Acupuncture work 
Acupuncture stimulates the body to produce endorphins and oxytocin, its own pain and stress-relieving chemicals. It may promote sleep by stimulating the release of melatonin and encourage a sense of well-being by stimulating the release of serotonin. It also stimulates nerve fibres to block out pain signals and aids in reducing the sensitivity of tender points in the body. https://www.aacp.org.uk/ 
 
Continuing Professional Development – Thoracic Safety Acupuncture Course 27th June 2024 
The Chartered Society of Physiotherapist has taken the decision to remove thoracic acupuncture from their professional insurance policy for CSP members. The AACP (Acupucnture Association of Chartered Physiotherapists) have managed to source additional insurance to cover members to enable us to continue to offer this vital service.  
As part of this, the AACP have offered complimentary courses to update and refresh members on thoracic safety. The course is for clinicians like Chelsea who wish to review and refresh their theorical knowledge and practical skills in the safe and effective application of acupuncture and dry needling to the thoracic and scapular region. https://www.aacp.org.uk/events/view/1756