Feb’25 news

Wow, where did January go? It feels like summer’s slipping away faster than we can say “beach day!” As we make the most of these sunny days, we’ve got some exciting updates for you.

In this months news edition, we’re giving you a heads-up about lost property (don’t let your stuff get left behind!), introducing a fantastic new team member, and diving into some helpful info on living with Parkinson’s disease and understanding Neuropraxia (those pesky pins and needles).

Lost Property – Are you Missing Something?

We currently have a collection of lost property at the clinic, including jackets, hand towels, hats, and water bottles. If any of these items belong to you, please make sure to collect them before Friday, February 28th. After this date, any unclaimed items will be disposed of to help keep the clinic space organised.

If you’ve left something behind, or aren’t completely sure if you have or not, feel free to check with reception during your next visit. We’re happy to help you find your lost items!

New Timetable – 2025 Classes

Just a reminder that we’ve updated our class timetable this year and there are a few changes. We have had to shift the time for some of our Group Therapy classes up by 30mins. Group Therapy classes that were previously at 10.30am, 11.30am, 12.30pm and 1.30pm have all moved up half an hour. New times are on the hour at 11.00am, 12.00pm, 13.00pm and 2.00pm accordingly.

We are excited to also be offering more classes this year, with the addition of several new time slots, giving you more options to meet your health goals.

To plan your classes for 2025, head to our website now to view the new timetable.

Meet Our Newest Team Member!

We’re delighted to introduce you to our newest team member, Holly Wright. Holly is a highly skilled physiotherapist with expertise in both paediatric and adult physiotherapy and as such will be available for appointments across all age groups, in addition to running classes at the practice. 

Holly began her career in the UK’s National Health Service, where she gained experience across various settings, including orthopaedics, paediatrics, stroke/neurology, and musculoskeletal care.

In late 2023, Holly relocated to Sydney, where she has been working in a paediatric clinic, focusing on children’s gross motor and developmental delays, as well as neurological conditions and post-operative rehabilitation.

Holly’s diverse background in both adult and paediatric physiotherapy has given her a well-rounded understanding of rehabilitation across all ages and we’re very lucky to have a physio at the practice who is equally passionate about seeing kids and adults. Welcome to the team Holly!

Living with Parkinson’s Disease

The Education Quarter

Pins, Needles, and Nerve Niggles:

All About Neuropraxia

Ever had a moment where your arm or leg feels like it’s fallen asleep, complete with that pins-and-needles sensation? That could be a mild case of neuropraxia—a temporary nerve block that often resolves on its own. But when these odd tingles or weakness linger, it’s time to take action. Call us at St Leonards Physiotherapy on (02) 9438 1782 so we can get to the root of the issue and help you bounce back!

What is neuropraxia?

Neuropraxia is a temporary disruption in the function of a nerve caused by compression or trauma. Unlike more severe nerve injuries, neuropraxia doesn’t involve structural damage to the nerve itself, and recovery is usually total. It is the mildest form of nerve injury in the spectrum known as Seddon’s classification.

Symptoms of neuropraxia may include:

• • Temporary numbness or tingling.
  • Weakness in the affected area.
  • A feeling of heaviness or difficulty moving the limb.

These symptoms can last anywhere from a few hours to several weeks, depending on the severity of the injury.

What causes neuropraxia?

Neuropraxia occurs when a nerve is compressed or stretched, leading to a temporary block in nerve signal transmission. Common causes include:

1. 1. 1. Injuries during sports: Sudden impacts, such as in contact sports, can compress nerves.
      2. Prolonged pressure: Sitting or lying in an awkward position for too long may compress nerves, leading to temporary symptoms.
      3. Surgical procedures: Pressure on a nerve during surgery can occasionally result in neuropraxia.
      4. Trauma or accidents: Direct blows to a limb or joint may temporarily disrupt nerve function.

Treatment and recovery

The good news is that neuropraxia often resolves on its own as the nerve resumes normal function. However, if it’s taking a bit longer than normal, recovery may be supported with:

• • Rest and activity modification: Avoiding further compression or strain on the affected nerve.
  • Physiotherapy: Exercises to restore strength and mobility while reducing the risk of recurrence.
  • Pain management: Heat or ice therapy and over-the-counter medications may alleviate discomfort (always consult your doctor before taking any medication).
  • Postural advice: Physiotherapists can guide you on maintaining positions that reduce pressure on nerves.

Most cases of neuropraxia resolve within weeks, although severe compression may take longer. Physiotherapy can play a crucial role in speeding up recovery and preventing complications.

Prognosis

With proper care and management, the outlook for neuropraxia is excellent. Unlike more severe nerve injuries, the nerve structure remains intact, making full recovery the most likely outcome.

If you’ve experienced nerve symptoms or want advice on preventing neuropraxia, our physiotherapists at St Leonards Physiotherapy can help. Call us on (02) 9438 1782 to book an appointment today.

PS: If you haven’t already why not follow us on social media for more fascinating health info. We’re on Facebook and Instagram.

Information provided in this email (including text, graphics, images, outbound links, and other material) is for informational purposes only. It is general in nature and is not to be used or considered as a substitute for personalised professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your qualified health provider regarding any symptoms, medical conditions, or treatments and before undertaking any new health care regimen.