The Somersham Christmas Tree Festival, held annually, is a cherished community event that transforms the St. John the Baptist Church into a dazzling display of creativity and holiday spirit. The festival features a variety of decorated Christmas trees, each uniquely created by local individuals, businesses, and organisations. Visitors can wonder through the church, enjoying the festive atmosphere and the imaginative themes of the trees. The event is a lovely experience for families and visitors of all ages. The Harding Physio Team always enjoy assembling their contribution to the festival, and this year we featured more than one of our Skellies! Did you manage to spot our display in the church?!  

Christmas Eve - 0800-1300h 

Closed - 25th Dec - Jan 5th to rest our hands and minds, and spend time with our loved ones. Enjoy a well-deserved break! 

The clinic will reopen January 5th 2026 with the team poised and ready to make 2026 your year of Health and Wellbeing Success! 

We have very fortunately been able to recruit a new Physiotherapist, who will be joining the team to take over from Matt. Watch this space for more information about our new recruit! 

 

November brings with it the global phenomenon known as Movember, a month dedicated to raising awareness about men's health issues, particularly prostate and testicular cancer, mental health, and suicide prevention. This movement encourages men to grow moustaches as a conversation starter and to raise funds for these important causes. 

 

 

 

This month, we're highlighting our local Movember participants who are making a difference. From growing moustaches to organizing community events, these individuals are champions of men's health awareness. To learn more please visit Movember. 

 

As part of our ongoing commitment to health and wellness, we are also focusing on Malnutrition Awareness Week from November 17th to 23rd. This week is dedicated to raising awareness about malnutrition and its impact on individuals and communities. Malnutrition can affect people of all ages, but it is particularly concerning in vulnerable populations such as the elderly, people with chronic illnesses, and those recovering from surgery or injury. 

Malnutrition occurs when the body doesn't get the right amount of nutrients to maintain health. It can result from inadequate intake, absorption, or consumption of nutrients. Common signs of malnutrition include fatigue, unintended weight loss, muscle weakness, and frequent illnesses. 

Learn about the causes, signs, and effects of malnutrition. Share this knowledge with friends, family, and colleagues to help spread awareness. 

Many individuals experiencing malnutrition may have limited access to nutritious food. Support local food banks by donating healthy, non-perishable items. 

Organize a workshop or seminar that focuses on balanced diets and the importance of nutrition for maintaining health and preventing malnutrition. 

Offer your time at local shelters or community centres where you can help prepare and serve nutritious meals to those in need. 

Ensure a diet that includes a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, proteins, and healthy fats to meet nutritional needs. 

Keep track of your nutritional intake, especially if you have dietary restrictions or are recovering from illness. 

Regularly consult healthcare professionals to receive guidance on maintaining a healthy diet and preventing malnutrition. 

Engage with community initiatives and support networks that aim to reduce malnutrition through education and resource distribution. 

 

By participating in Malnutrition Awareness Week, we can collectively work towards a healthier community. Let's take this opportunity to educate ourselves and others about the importance of nutrition and taking steps to prevent malnutrition. 

For those interested in a comprehensive approach to health, explore our body composition services to better understand your nutritional needs and how to address them effectively. To learn more about malnutrition please visit the NHS website. 

 

 

Recently we presented at Somersham Town Bowls Club, delivering an interactive presentation to club members on fitness for lawn bowls, through the eyes of a physio. 

We examined key areas relevant to lawn bowls, such as joint range of movement, strength, balance, and proprioception, considering how these impacted bowling technique. We provided take-home information for further exploration and party bags for attendees—who doesn't love a party bag?! 

 

If you were involved with a club or an organization and wanted us to come and speak to your members, please got in touch on 01487 843844 or email info@hardingphysiotherapy.co.uk . We would love to meet you and your members! 

 

 

 

This month, Ed has successfully completed the "Red Flags: Serious Spinal Pathology and Systems Thinking" course, which means that all of our practitioners have now completed this training.  

 

This additional training doesn't introduce new tools or treatment techniques, but rather enhances awareness of conditions that may not be musculoskeletal. This enables referrals to the appropriate professionals for assistance. 

 

In the context of physiotherapy, red flags are clinical indicators that suggest a potentially serious underlying condition. Certain findings, particularly groups of signs and symptoms, may give us cause for concern as they can be suggestive of serious pathology and warrant further investigation. 

 

Here are some common red flags that physiotherapists and patients should be aware of: 

Persistence: Pain that does not improve with rest, medication, or standard treatment. 

Location: Pain that radiates or shifts location unexpectedly. 

Nature: Sudden onset of pain without a clear cause. 

2. Neurological Symptoms 

Numbness or Tingling: Persistent or worsening numbness in limbs. 

Weakness: Sudden weakness in muscles, especially if localized. 

Balance Issues: Unexplained difficulty in maintaining balance or coordination. 

Fever: Unexplained fever, night sweats, or weight loss. 

Fatigue: Persistent and unexplained fatigue that affects daily activities. 

Incontinence: Sudden changes in bladder or bowel control. 

Retention: Difficulty in passing urine or stool. 

A past history of cancer can increase the risk of metastatic disease. 

 

If you or someone you know experiences any of these red flags, it’s important to seek medical advice promptly. Early detection and intervention can prevent complications and improve treatment outcomes. To learn more about red flags use this link or to learn about Cuada Equina click here. 

 

At our physiotherapy clinic, we prioritise patient safety and health. Our skilled practitioners are trained to recognize and respond to red flags effectively. We offer comprehensive assessments and collaborate with healthcare professionals to ensure you receive the best care possible. 

 

Timely Intervention: Reduces the risk of complications and improves recovery. 

Appropriate Referral: Ensures patients receive the necessary medical evaluation and treatment. 

Improved Outcomes: Enhances the effectiveness of physiotherapy treatment plans. 

 

Educating yourself about red flags is a vital step in managing your health. By staying informed, you can play an active role in your healthcare journey and work collaboratively with your practitioner. 

 

October is recognised as Breast Cancer Awareness Month, focusing on raising awareness, promoting early detection, and supporting those affected. Individuals and communities highlight the importance of regular screenings and self-exams. By wearing pink ribbons and participating in events, people show solidarity with patients and survivors. 

Breast cancer is common, and early detection boosts treatment success. Healthcare providers stress mammograms and screenings while educating about risk factors and prevention. To learn more click on this link 

In July we launched our new body composition analysis service from InBody, and we are delighted that initial interest has been high. We believe the InBody service can assist everyone in achieving their goals, whether they are athletic pursuits, frailty prevention or weight loss journeys.  

 

By examining your body’s numbers, you can gain a deeper understanding of your health, particularly regarding potential future health issues relating to excess weight. One primary concern for us at the clinic ,working with people who have musculoskeletal issues, is the impact being over weight has on osteoarthritis. 

 

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 528 million people were living with osteoarthritis in 2019, reflecting a staggering 113% increase since 1990. The knee is the joint most commonly affected (365 million cases), followed by the hip and hand. The WHO emphasizes that osteoarthritis is not an inevitable part of aging. It identifies being overweight as a primary risk factor, alongside a history of joint injury or overuse. To combat this, they recommend engaging in regular exercise and maintaining a balanced diet to strengthen muscles and keep body weight in check, while also controlling joint overuse. 

 

Many individuals are surprised to discover that carrying even a few extra pounds significantly impacts their knee joints. When we walk, our knees endure forces that are three to six times greater than our total body weight. For instance, if you're 10 pounds overweight, your knees are subjected to an additional pressure of 30-60 pounds with each step. When you consider all the movements you make throughout the day, it becomes clear how much extra strain you're placing on your knees, which can accelerate cartilage breakdown in the joints. 

 

In addition to the extra stress on your knees, being overweight raises further concerns. Research indicates that excess weight is a significant risk factor for developing osteoarthritis. This is largely because fat cells release proteins that trigger inflammation throughout the body, including the joints. Chronic, low-grade inflammation can increase the likelihood of developing osteoarthritis. 

 

Individuals with obesity who have osteoarthritis in one knee are five times more likely to develop the condition in the other knee compared to those of a healthy weight. Furthermore, overweight or obese individuals are at a higher risk of needing hip or knee replacements, and they often experience poorer outcomes post-surgery, along with a greater likelihood of surgical complications. 

 

This evidence strongly supports the case for losing excess weight, whether you have already been diagnosed with arthritis or are looking to lower your risk of the disease. Even a modest weight loss can lead to decreased pain levels, making it easier to stay active and continue building on your weight loss journey. To learn more about this use this link. 

 

As we step into September, it’s an important time to focus on health awareness. National "Know Your Numbers" Week, from the 8th to the 14th, is dedicated to encouraging everyone to understand and monitor key health indicators such as blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and body mass index.  

 

Keeping track of these numbers can empower you to make informed decisions about your health and lifestyle. We encourage you this week to prioritise your well-being and taking proactive steps towards a healthier future and get to know your numbers. 

 

InBody can provide you with the data essential for understanding your current health and fitness levels, and as part of our therapist led analysis appointments, we check blood pressure, heart rate and oxygen levels, as well as doing the InBody Test. In addition to this, we guide you through the process of setting realistic targets and devising a personalised plan to ensure you reach those goals effectively. 

 

If you have already joined us for taster day, or had an InBody scan including a consultation with us, you can book in for a follow up self scan, or block book either five or ten scans to keep updated with your progress. Please call us: 01487843844. 

 

 

In the realm of health and rehabilitation, both Sports Therapists and Physiotherapists play vital roles in helping individuals recover from injuries and improve their physical abilities. However, there are distinct differences, and similarities, between these two professions that are important to understand, especially when choosing the right care for your needs. 

 

The primary distinction between these two professions lies in their specific areas of focus. Physiotherapists traditionally are healthcare professionals who cater to a broad spectrum of physical health issues. They can manage a variety of conditions, such as arthritis, neurological disorders, respiratory illness, oncology, geriatric care and general musculoskeletal injuries. Their approach is comprehensive, involving therapeutic exercises, manual therapy, and patient education to enhance mobility and reduce pain across diverse patient populations. 

 

In contrast, Sports Therapists historically specialise in the prevention and treatment of sports-related injuries. Their expertise revolves around understanding the physical demands of athletic performance and devising strategies to optimise it. Sports Therapists focus on developing conditioning programs, offering immediate care for injuries, and creating rehabilitation plans to ensure active individuals can return to their sport safely and effectively. However, Sports Therapists can help with acute musculoskeletal injuries the same as a Physiotherapist. Therefore, in many cases a Sports Therapist is often able to treat as many pains or injuries as a Physiotherapists, sometimes they can be more specialist in the resolution of musculoskeletal issues.  

 

Despite these historical differences, both professions share common goals: to alleviate pain, restore function, and improve overall physical health. Both utilise therapeutic exercises and manual techniques as part of their treatment regimes. They also emphasise patient education, empowering individuals with the knowledge to manage their conditions or enhance their performance. For many injuries a Sports Therapist can help the same way a Physiotherapist can with advice, hands on treatment and pain management. 

 

Understanding the distinctions and overlaps between Sports Therapists and Physiotherapists can guide you in selecting the right professional for your needs. If you are addressing a sports injury or seeking to boost athletic performance, a sports therapist may be the most suitable option. If you are dealing with chronic conditions or require a comprehensive approach to physical health taking into consideration multiple co-morbidities, a Physiotherapist may be better placed to help you. For a large number of musculoskeletal pains and injuries, both a Physio and a Sports Therapist can provide the care you need. 

 

By recognising these differences and similarities, patients can make informed decisions, ensuring they receive the most appropriate and effective treatment to support their health and wellness goals. When you contact our clinic, our team may ask you several questions prior to booking, so that we can allocate your care to the therapist best placed to meet your individual needs. 

 

At Harding Physiotherapy, all of our therapists are afficialted to their relevant Governing Body, or Association. This helps to ensure a high, evidence based standard of training, care, and treatment for all our clients.  

 

For further details about The Society of Sports Therapy, click here. 

For information about the Sports Therapy Association, click here. 

For information about the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy, click here. 

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Both our therapists who offer acupuncture treatment are registered members of the AACP 

 

As temperatures rise, maintaining musculoskeletal health becomes increasingly crucial. Hot weather can often lead to dehydration and fatigue, which may exacerbate existing conditions or increase the risk of injury during physical activities. Adequate hydration is vital for keeping your muscles and joints functioning optimally. Water acts as a lubricant for your joints and helps to maintain muscle elasticity, reducing the likelihood of strains or sprains. Additionally, heat can cause muscles to tire more quickly, making regular breaks and proper stretching essential to prevent overuse injuries. Engaging in gentle exercises like swimming or yoga can help maintain your fitness level without putting excessive strain on your body. Always listen to your body’s signals and consult with a Physiotherapist or Sports Therapist if you experience persistent pain or discomfort. Prioritising musculoskeletal health in hot weather ensures you remain active and comfortable, ready to enjoy all the season has to offer. 

 

For more information about exercising in the heat please use this link. 

 

“....The acupuncture and exercises absolutely without doubt was the major factor in getting me me back to me, my life, my family and back working again.” 

As the weather warms and gardens burst into life, many of us eagerly dive into the joys of gardening. However, the physical demands of gardening can sometimes lead to unexpected aches and pains. Whether it's bending over to weed, lifting heavy pots, or spending hours hunched over planting, gardening can take a toll on your body. To prevent discomfort, it's important to incorporate some simple strategies into your gardening routine.  

 

1.Start by warming up your muscles with gentle stretches before you begin.  

2.Use tools with ergonomic handles to reduce strain on your hands and wrists. 

3. Alternate tasks to avoid overusing any one muscle group.  

4. Remember to take regular breaks to rest and hydrate.  

 

With these mindful practices, you can enjoy the therapeutic benefits of gardening without the unwelcome pain. For more tips on managing pain and gardening, please follow this link  

 

As we transition from periods of rest or recovery back into our beloved activities or sports, it's crucial to adopt a mindful approach. At our physiotherapy clinic, we emphasise the importance of pacing oneself to prevent injuries or setbacks. Whether you're returning from an injury, surgery, or simply a break, gradually increasing your activity level is key. Start by listening to your body’s signals and slowly getting back into your activities. It's beneficial to follow a structured plan that incorporates rest days and cross-training to balance your workload depending on your goals. We recommend focusing on proper technique and incorporating strength and flexibility exercises tailored to your specific sport or activity. Remember, patience is vital; by taking these steps, you can safely and effectively regain your previous level of performance while minimising the risk of re-injury. 

 

 

 

 

 

Our dedicated Sports Therapist, Matt, has been asked to deliver an engaging and insightful presentation on Work Station Ergonomics to a local company. This will focus on creating healthier and more productive work environments. Matt will share valuable tips and strategies with the staff, emphasising the importance of changing postures regularly, optimal desk setup and regular breaks to prevent strain and fatigue. His presentation will highlight how slight adjustments to the work station can significantly enhance comfort and efficiency, leading to improved well-being and productivity. If you believe this is something your business would benefit from, please don't hesitate to get in touch. 

 

In today's digital age, where many of us spend hours at our desks, ensuring a comfortable and ergonomic work station is crucial for maintaining good health and productivity. Proper ergonomics can help prevent strain injuries, reduce fatigue, and increase efficiency. Start by ensuring your chair supports your lower back and allows your feet to rest flat on the floor. Your computer monitor should be at eye level, about an arm's length away, to avoid neck strain. Keep your wrists straight and hands at or below elbow level when typing. Taking regular breaks to stretch and move around is equally important. By prioritizing ergonomics, you not only enhance your comfort but also contribute to a healthier and more enjoyable work environment. This link shows more techniques in both office and manual jobs. https://www.csp.org.uk/public-patient/keeping-active-healthy/staying-healthy-work 

Whilst this is a condition which is quite common, we have seen an increasing number of clients presenting to the clinic for help. It can range from a dull ache to a sharp, sudden pain and is often caused by strains, injuries, or underlying medical conditions. It affects nearly all of us at some point in our lives. It is so common, you could think of it as part of everyday living. Here is some information to help you manage this condition:- 

 

 

 

 

 

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. 

 

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. 

 

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.