Corked Thigh Adelaide

Corky Treatment in Goodwood, Plympton, Unley, Millswood, Wayville, Clarence Park & Plympton

What is a Corky?

A corky (or corked muscle) refers to when an athlete takes a direct knock on a muscle which results in pain and often bruising. This can occur either when the player is tensing the muscle under load, or with the muscle in a relaxed state, and often the contact comes from an opposing players hip or knee.

What are the symptoms of a Corked Thigh?

The initial symptom of a corky injury is immediate onset of pain, often feeling like you’ve sustained a dead leg. As swelling and bruising increases, this pain can remain as a deep ache and can then also be sore or aggravated when contracting that muscle.

Occasionally a corked thigh will leave redness around the contact area and a visible bruise may develop later. A corked thigh can leave you feeling tight and limited in movement.

Treatment for a Corky

Treatment options include immediate compression of the area and avoiding activity that increases circulation to that area, which could further increase bleeding. This is not always possible if the corked thigh happens during a sporting contest and the player needs to continue playing.

Subsequent treatment can involve ice (or ice baths) and relative rest before seeking further assessment with a sports physiotherapist. At that stage the treatment and rehab regime will involve determining when increasing gentle range of motion and flexibility can commence, along with some gentle hands on techniques to help gradually clear any fluid and reduce tension in and around the affected muscle. “Rubbing the corky out” is not recommended, and this was common practice in previous times.

Water walking (hydrotherapy) can be very helpful in soothing soreness and encouraging movement in a supported way.

As rehab progresses it is important to regain full range of motion and strength and build tolerance to weight bearing exercise, just as you would when recovering from a muscle strain. This will be prescribed by your physiotherapist based on the nature and extent of your injury.

How long does a corked thigh take to heal?

Recovery time from a corked thigh is quite variable depending on the severity. Minor to moderate corked thighs may be to the extent that the player is able to play within a week or so, and not miss a game. More significant corked thighs than can result in many weeks or months lost to training and games.

How long after a Corky Injury can I return to normal activity?

We encourage return to normal daily activities as soon as able as long as there is no concerning evidence of an extended or significant bleed. Resuming normal movement patterns and walking can be good for general recovery. Progression to more intense exercise including cycling, running, jumping and landing can take longer once again depending on the severity.

Call the clinic today on 8357 0418 to book your appointment