MEPhysio Australia

A stiff or twisted neck, commonly known as a wry neck ,  can affect anyone, from children to adults. Although often temporary, it can cause pain, limit movement, and disrupt daily activities. Understanding its causes, recognising symptoms, and knowing the best treatment options is essential for Australians experiencing this condition. What Is Wry Neck? Wry neck, or acute torticollis, occurs when the muscles on one side of the neck contract involuntarily, causing the head to tilt or rotate. This sudden stiffness can make moving the neck painful or uncomfortable. Many cases develop overnight or after sleeping in an awkward position, while others result from muscle strain or minor injuries. Though typically temporary, persistent or recurring cases should be assessed by a healthcare professional. Causes of Wry Neck Several factors can contribute to the development of a wry neck: Muscle Strain – Overuse or sudden neck movements can strain cervical muscles. Sleeping Posture ...

Growing pains are a familiar concern for Australian families. Many children experience aches in their legs during the evening, leading parents to worry about their child’s health. While these pains are generally harmless, understanding their causes, identifying symptoms, and knowing how to manage them ensures children stay comfortable and active. What Are Growing Pains? Despite their name, growing pains   are not directly caused by bones growing. Instead, they are musculoskeletal aches related to the soft tissues around the joints. Rapid growth, muscle fatigue, and daily activity can all contribute to these temporary discomforts. Growing pains are most common in children aged 3 to 12 and tend to occur in the legs, including calves, shins, and behind the knees. They are usually bilateral, meaning both legs are affected symmetrically. Common Symptoms Key symptoms of growing pains include: Dull, aching discomfort in the legs Pain that occurs mainly in the evening or at nigh...

Australia’s active lifestyle is something we proudly embrace. From weekend sports to coastal runs, gym sessions, outdoor bootcamps and labour intensive work, Australians place a lot of demand on their bodies. With this high level of activity, muscle injuries are extremely common, particularly the muscle strain .  Knowing which muscles are at the highest risk and understanding how to protect them can help you stay pain free, mobile and performing at your best. This comprehensive guide explores the most frequently strained muscles in Australia, why they are prone to injury, and what you can do to prevent problems before they start. Why Muscle Strains Are So Common Muscle strains occur when fibres are stretched beyond their limits. This usually happens during sudden or forceful movements, or when a muscle is fatigued and unable to support the load placed upon it. In Australia, strains are particularly common because: Many people participate in sport year round Outdoor activit...