01487 843 844 
info@hardingphysiotherapy.co.uk 

Latest News from Harding Physiotherapy 

January 2025 Newsletter

Posted on 7th January 2025 at 18:04
 
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! 
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December 2024 Newsletter

Posted on 2nd December 2024 at 10:22
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. 
 
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November 2024 Newsletter

Posted on 1st November 2024 at 08:03
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. 
 
 
 
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October 2024 Newsletter

Posted on 7th October 2024 at 14:40
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.  
 
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September 2024 Newsletter

Posted on 4th September 2024 at 14:48
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. 
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August 2024 Newsletter

Posted on 6th August 2024 at 18:53
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. 
 
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July 2024 Newsletter

Posted on 4th July 2024 at 10:30
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 
 
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June 2024 Newsletter

Posted on 6th June 2024 at 09:13
Healthy Eating Week – 10th to 14th June 
 
Whether that means having one extra portion of fruit or vegetables a day, being a bit more active, experimenting with a new recipe or using up leftovers - Healthy Eating Week 2024 is all about giving it a go! 
 
Get at least 5 A DAY 
• Stay hydrated 
• Move more 
• Focus on fibre 
• Reduce food waste 
 
For more resources on Healthy Eating Week click here 
 
Bike Week – 10th to 16th June 
 
Bike Week is the UK’s biggest awareness-raising moment of the year for cycling and a chance to celebrate. It’s a time to remind ourselves of all the positives that riding a bike can bring to our own health and wellbeing. 
 
Cycling is good for you and we should celebrate all those who cycle and encourage and enable more cycling. As we know when more people cycle, we become happier, healthier, greener and more connected. https://www.cyclinguk.org/bikeweek 
 
Annual Leave 
 
Please be aware that Chelsea and Matt will both be taking leave in June, resting their hands and brains, recharging ready to take on the challenges of the expansion project starting at the end of June. Matt will be away from 10th to 14th June and Chelsea from 17th to 21st June. We will be open and functioning as normal, but with less appointments. Whether you are a new or existing client, if you’ve been thinking of booking in to see us, get something in the diary, we would hate for you to miss out. 
 
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May 2024 Newsletter

Posted on 8th May 2024 at 11:50
National Walking Month – 1st – 31st May 2024 
 
Did you know that May is National Walking Month? 
 
Research shows that even a small amount of physical activity can make a big difference in a person’s health. National Walking Month is a great time to get connected and get moving! Walking is an exercise that almost anyone can participate in, whether slowly or quickly, long distances or short. Even parking at the back of the carpark and walking a bit further into the office is a great way to make small steps that add up. National Walking Month was born out of the desire to encourage more people to get moving and stay healthy. 
 
Benefits of Walking 
 
Walking is simple, free and one of the easiest ways to get more active, lose weight and become healthier. 
Sometimes overlooked as a form of exercise, walking briskly can help you build stamina, burn excess calories and make your heart healthier. 
 
Walking is often recommended for people with arthritis because it’s a low-impact exercise that keeps the joints flexible, helps bone health, and reduces the risk of osteoporosis. Some people worry that exercising could make their arthritis worse, but the truth is being active is good for us and helps keep our joints healthy. 
 
“All the evidence suggests that exercising helps to strengthen your joints, maintain flexibility and improve your general health”. 
 
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April 2024 Newsletter

Posted on 4th April 2024 at 09:22
 
On Your Feet Britain - 25th April 2024 
On Your Feet Britain is a celebration of physical activity that encourages workers across Britain to take part in a variety of fun and simple activities #SitLess and #MoveMore at work (https://yo-yodesk.co.uk/pages/onyourfeet#event). Keep your eyes peeled on our social media pages for some updates from the team on how we are Moving More at work! 
 
It's much easier than you think and you'll be surprised by how much better you will feel. Here are a few tricks to try: 
 
Use the stairs rather than the lift 
Stand up and have a break from your computer every hour 
Eat Lunch away from your desk 
Stand during phone calls 
Have standing or walking meetings 
Walk over to your colleagues' desks instead of phoning or e-mailing them 
 
 
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