Understanding the Meniscus: An Essential Component of Knee Health

Posted on May 15, 2024

Understanding the Meniscus: An Essential Component of Knee Health

The meniscus, often referred to as the “shock absorber” of the knee, is a vital structure that plays a crucial role in maintaining knee stability and function. Composed of two C-shaped pieces of cartilage nestled between the femur and tibia bones, the menisci act as cushions, distributing weight evenly across the knee joint and providing stability during movement.

Anatomy and Function

Located within the knee joint, the menisci are tough, rubbery tissues that help to absorb shock and reduce friction between the femur and tibia bones. They also serve to stabilise the knee, preventing excessive movement and providing support during activities such as walking, running, and jumping.

The menisci have a crescent shape, with the larger medial meniscus on the inner side of the knee and the smaller lateral meniscus on the outer side. Each meniscus is attached to the joint capsule and ligaments of the knee, ensuring proper positioning and function.

Common Injuries

Despite their resilience, the menisci are susceptible to injury, particularly during activities that involve twisting, pivoting, or sudden changes in direction. Meniscus tears are among the most common knee injuries, occurring as a result of traumatic injury or degenerative changes associated with ageing or repetitive stress.

Symptoms of a Meniscus Injury

Meniscus injuries can cause a range of symptoms, including:

Pain, especially along the joint line of the knee
Swelling and stiffness
Difficulty fully straightening or bending the knee
Popping or clicking sensations
Feeling of instability or “giving way” in the knee

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosing a meniscus injury typically involves a thorough physical examination, along with imaging tests such as MRI or X-ray to confirm the diagnosis and assess the extent of the injury. Treatment options for meniscus injuries depend on several factors, including the severity and location of the tear, the individual’s age and activity level, and the presence of any underlying knee conditions.

Conservative treatment measures such as rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE), along with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) and physical therapy, may be recommended for minor meniscus tears or for individuals who are not good candidates for surgery.

Surgical options may be considered for larger or complex tears, particularly those that interfere with knee function or cause persistent symptoms. Surgical procedures for meniscus tears may include arthroscopic repair, partial meniscectomy (removal of the torn portion of the meniscus), or meniscus transplant for irreparable tears.

Conclusion

The meniscus plays a crucial role in knee health and function, serving as a vital component of the joint’s stability and shock absorption mechanism. Understanding the anatomy of the meniscus, common injuries, and treatment options is essential for maintaining knee health and preventing long-term complications associated with meniscus injuries. Prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment can help individuals recover from meniscus injuries and return to their normal activities with improved function and reduced risk of future injury.

If you feel you are struggling with a meniscus issue, our highly qualified sports therapists and physiotherapists can help design a robust rehabilitation plan. Contact us for more information.

What is a Deep Tissue Massage

Posted on May 15, 2024

Deep tissue massage is a therapeutic technique that goes beyond the surface to target deeper layers of muscle and connective tissue. Unlike the gentle strokes of Swedish massage, deep tissue massage involves applying firm pressure and slow strokes to reach the underlying muscles and fascia. This massage modality is often sought after by individuals seeking relief from chronic muscle tension, injury rehabilitation, and overall relaxation.

At the heart of this therapy is the intention to address specific musculoskeletal issues and alleviate discomfort. By targeting the deeper layers of muscle tissue, the therapist aims to break down adhesions, scar tissue, and knots that may cause pain and restricted movement. This focused approach can provide relief for conditions such as chronic back pain, neck and shoulder tension, and repetitive strain injuries.

One of the key benefits of deep tissue massage is its ability to improve blood circulation and reduce inflammation. As the massage therapist applies pressure to the muscles, blood flow to the area increases, delivering oxygen and nutrients while flushing out toxins and metabolic waste. This enhanced circulation can promote faster healing and recovery from injury, as well as alleviate swelling and inflammation associated with conditions like arthritis and tendonitis.

Another hallmark of this specific technique is its effectiveness in releasing chronic muscle tension and stiffness. Through targeted pressure and friction, deep tissue massage can help relax tight muscles and improve flexibility and range of motion. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals who experience stiffness and restricted mobility due to sedentary lifestyles, poor posture, or repetitive movements.

In addition to its physical benefits, deep tissue massage can also have a profound impact on mental and emotional well-being. Many people carry stress and tension in their muscles, which can manifest as physical discomfort and contribute to feelings of anxiety and tension. Deep tissue massage provides a space for relaxation and release, allowing individuals to let go of built-up tension and experience a sense of calm and tranquillity.

For individuals recovering from injury or surgery, deep tissue massage can play a crucial role in the rehabilitation process. By addressing muscular imbalances, scar tissue formation, and postural issues, deep tissue massage can help restore functional movement patterns and prevent future injuries. This can be especially valuable for athletes and active individuals looking to optimise their performance and prevent overuse injuries.

In summary, deep tissue massage offers a holistic approach to healing and well-being, addressing both physical and emotional aspects of health. Whether seeking relief from chronic pain, recovering from injury, or simply looking to relax and unwind, deep tissue massage provides a therapeutic experience that can benefit the body, mind, and spirit.

If you are interested in booking one of our deep tissue massage therapists then please contact us today.

Attendance at the ABR Festival!

Posted on May 11, 2024

Attendance at the ABR Festival! Offering Festival Massage services.

LiveWell Health brought relaxation and rejuvenation to the ABR Festival once again this year, offering on-site festival massage services to both performers and attendees alike. As the festival unfolded over the weekend, our team was on hand to provide soothing massages, ensuring that everyone could unwind and recharge amidst the excitement and energy of the event.

From head to toe, festival-goers indulged in the therapeutic benefits of massage, melting away tension and stress with each knead and stroke. Whether it was a quick shoulder rub between sets or a full-body massage to soothe tired muscles, our skilled therapists were dedicated to ensuring that every attendee experienced the ultimate relaxation.

In addition to our festival massage services, LiveWell Health also offered a mobile physiotherapy and injury clinic, conveniently located next to St John’s Ambulance. Here, individuals could seek assistance for any less serious injuries or concerns, receiving expert advice and treatment from our qualified physiotherapists. From minor strains to nagging pains, our team was committed to helping festival-goers stay healthy and active throughout the weekend.

As a staple at the ABR Festival, LiveWell Health looks forward to this event each year, eager to bring the perfect blend of fun and wellness to attendees. With laughter in the air and relaxation at hand, the festival atmosphere was enhanced by our presence, creating a memorable experience for all who attended.

As the sun set on another successful year at the ABR Festival, we were grateful for the opportunity to be a part of such a vibrant and dynamic event. Until next year, we’ll be eagerly awaiting the chance to return and spread the joy of wellness to festival-goers once again.

If you have a festival coming up and feel the need to have some highly qualified professional on hand to give you festival goers a seriously good massage! Then look no further than livewell health. Contact our team today and we can help your festival reach new heights!

Val and Jonny performing festival massage festival massage and backstage massage at festivals around the uk ABR Festival Massage Services

How to Prepare for Your Marathon Race

Posted on May 10, 2024

How to Prepare for Your Marathon Race: A Comprehensive Guide to Success

Running a marathon is a significant achievement that requires months of dedicated training, mental preparation, and careful planning. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or tackling your first marathon, proper preparation is essential to crossing the finish line strong and injury-free. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll outline the key steps to help you prepare for your marathon race, from setting realistic goals to fine-tuning your training regimen and ensuring you’re ready for race day.

Setting Realistic Goals

Before diving into your marathon training, it’s crucial to establish realistic goals based on your fitness level, experience, and desired outcome. Whether your goal is to finish the race, achieve a personal best time, or qualify for a prestigious event, setting clear and achievable goals will guide your training and keep you motivated throughout the process.

Building Your Training Plan

A well-structured training plan is the foundation of marathon preparation. It should include a combination of running workouts, cross-training activities, rest days, and gradual mileage increases to build endurance and prevent injury. When designing your training plan, consider factors such as your current fitness level, weekly mileage, preferred training intensity, and available time for training.

Gradual Mileage Build-Up

One of the most critical aspects of marathon training is gradually increasing your weekly mileage to build endurance and prepare your body for the demands of race day. Start with a manageable base mileage and gradually increase your long run distance each week, following a structured progression to avoid overtraining and injury. Incorporate rest days and recovery runs into your schedule to allow your body to adapt and recover effectively.

Cross-Training and Strength Training

Incorporating cross-training activities and strength training into your marathon training plan can help improve overall fitness, prevent injury, and enhance running performance. Activities such as swimming, cycling, yoga, and strength training can complement your running workouts, strengthen muscles, improve flexibility, and reduce the risk of overuse injuries. Aim to include cross-training sessions 1-2 times per week to supplement your running regimen.

Recovery Time for the body

It is important to set aside recovery periods and breaks in your training. This is to give your body time to recover. By having a de-load week after a 6 week training section, is a great way to take the foot off the pedal just enough for the body to catch up. Enlisting the help of a qualified sports therapist to give your body the once over, a running MOT and health check and maybe indulge in a sports massage or two during your training is a great option.

Nutrition and Hydration

Proper nutrition and hydration are essential components of marathon preparation, both during training and on race day. Fuel your body with a balanced diet rich in carbohydrates, protein, healthy fats, fruits, and vegetables to support energy levels, muscle recovery, and overall health. Experiment with different pre-run and post-run meals to find what works best for you and practise your race day nutrition strategy during long training runs to ensure it’s effective and well-tolerated.

Hydration is equally important, especially during long runs and in hot or humid conditions. Stay hydrated throughout the day by drinking water regularly and replenish electrolytes lost through sweat with sports drinks or electrolyte supplements. On race day, familiarise yourself with the course’s water stations and develop a hydration plan to ensure you stay properly hydrated from start to finish.

Race Day Preparation

Race day preparation begins long before the starting line. In the days leading up to the marathon, focus on adequate rest, proper nutrition, and mental visualisation to prepare your body and mind for the challenge ahead. Lay out your race day gear, including your running outfit, shoes, hydration pack or belt, nutrition, and any other essentials, the night before to minimise stress and ensure you have everything you need on race day.

On the morning of the marathon, wake up early to allow plenty of time for a light breakfast, hydration, and warm-up exercises. Arrive at the race venue early to avoid last-minute rushing and familiarise yourself with the course, start line procedures, and logistical details. Stay relaxed, focused, and positive as you await the start of the race, and trust in your training and preparation to carry you through to the finish line.

During the Race

Once the race begins, focus on pacing yourself according to your race strategy and staying mentally strong and positive throughout the journey. Listen to your body, adjust your pace as needed, and fuel and hydrate regularly to maintain energy levels and prevent fatigue. Break the race into manageable segments, focus on one mile at a time, and draw inspiration from fellow runners, spectators, and the excitement of the event.

Post-Race Recovery

After crossing the finish line, take time to celebrate your accomplishment and reflect on your marathon journey. Rehydrate, refuel with a post-race meal or snack, and engage in light stretching or foam rolling to aid in muscle recovery and reduce soreness. Listen to your body in the days following the marathon, and gradually reintroduce light exercise and movement to promote recovery and prevent injury.

Conclusion

Preparing for a marathon requires dedication, discipline, and careful planning, but the rewards of crossing the finish line are well worth the effort. By setting realistic goals, building a structured training plan, focusing on proper nutrition and hydration, and staying mentally strong and positive, you can maximise your chances of success on race day. Remember to enjoy the journey, celebrate your achievements along the way, and embrace the challenge of the marathon with confidence and determination. Good luck, and happy running!

If you are in need of some support, whether that’s nutrition, strength and conditioning or simply a sports massage, then don’t hesitate to contact our team today. They are highly qualified and have worked within elite sports for many years, so they will be the best people to help.

Wellbeing day at AMS

Posted on May 10, 2024

AMS in Birmingham recently hosted a groundbreaking wellbeing day in collaboration with LiveWell Health, and the results were nothing short of extraordinary. From moring until afternoon, employees were treated to a comprehensive array of corporate wellness and wellbeing services, designed to rejuvenate their bodies and minds and foster a culture of health and vitality in the workplace.

The day began with an energising wake-up routine, setting the tone for what would be a day filled with relaxation, rejuvenation, and self-care. As employees arrived at the office, they were greeted with the enticing aroma of essential oils and the promise of a day dedicated to their wellbeing.

LiveWell Health pulled out all the stops, offering the AMS team their entire portfolio of services. From on-site chair and couch massages to soothing on site reflexology sessions, employees had the opportunity to unwind and de-stress under the skilled hands of experienced therapists. Yoga and mindfulness sessions provided a welcome respite from the demands of the workday, allowing participants to reconnect with their bodies and find inner peace amidst the hustle and bustle of the office.

Nutrition seminars and workshops offered valuable insights into healthy eating habits, empowering employees to make informed choices about their diet and lifestyle. The mobile physio clinic provided personalised assessments and treatments, addressing any aches, pains, or musculoskeletal issues that employees may have been experiencing.

One of the highlights of the day was the comprehensive health checks and assessments offered by LiveWell Health. From blood tests to food intolerances and allergies, employees received valuable insights into their overall health and wellbeing. With 100% employee satisfaction feedback, it’s clear that the AMS team had a great time and benefited immensely from the wellbeing day.

As a testament to its success, AMS has already committed to hosting LiveWell Health on a more regular basis, ensuring that employee wellbeing remains a top priority in their employee benefits offering. By investing in initiatives like these, AMS is not only nurturing the health and happiness of its employees but also fostering a culture of productivity, engagement, and success in the workplace.

If you feel like having either one or more of our services mentioned in this article within your employee wellbeing offering then please contact us today for some further information or a quote.

Birmingham Half with Cure Leukaemia & PWC

Posted on May 5, 2024

On the 5th of May 2024, the streets of Birmingham were alive with the energy of thousands of runners as they participated in the highly anticipated Birmingham Half Marathon. The event was a testament to the spirit of community and athleticism, with participants of all ages and abilities coming together to take on the challenge of the half marathon course.

Among the runners were individuals from PriceWaterHouseCoopers (PWC), who partnered with Cure Leukaemia to support their incredible work in the fight against blood cancer. As part of their preparation for the marathon, PWC invited the LiveWell team to their head office in Birmingham to provide pre-event sports massage for the runners. This invaluable service helped to warm up the muscles, stimulate blood flow, and prepare the participants for the gruelling race ahead, reducing the risk of injury and optimising their performance on the day.

The atmosphere at the PWC head office was electric as runners eagerly awaited their turn for a sports massage from the skilled therapists at LiveWell. With smiles on their faces and a sense of determination in their hearts, the runners embraced the opportunity to relax and prepare both mentally and physically for the challenge ahead.

As the marathon got underway, it was clear that the hard work and dedication of both the runners and the support teams had paid off. The streets were lined with cheering spectators, and the runners pushed themselves to new heights, achieving personal bests and crossing the finish line with a sense of accomplishment and pride.

The collaboration between PWC, Cure Leukaemia, and LiveWell exemplified the power of community and teamwork in making a positive impact on the lives of others. Through their combined efforts, they not only raised vital funds for a worthy cause but also inspired individuals to push themselves beyond their limits and achieve their goals. The Birmingham Half Marathon was not just a race; it was a celebration of courage, determination, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.

Birmingham Half Marathon with PWC and Cure Leukaemia

What are the benefits of pre event massage?

Pre-event massage is a form of massage therapy specifically tailored to preparing an individual’s body for physical activity or competition. Some of the benefits of pre-event massage include:

Increased blood flow: Pre-event massage helps stimulate blood circulation, which delivers oxygen and nutrients to the muscles, preparing them for activity.
Improved flexibility: Massage techniques such as effleurage and petrissage can help loosen tight muscles and improve joint flexibility, allowing for greater range of motion during exercise or competition.
Reduced muscle tension: By targeting areas of muscle tightness and tension through gentle soft tissue release techniques and neuromuscular techniques, pre-event massage can help relax the muscles and alleviate any pre-race jitters or anxiety.
Enhanced mental focus: Massage therapy has been shown to promote relaxation and reduce stress, helping athletes to mentally prepare for their upcoming event and stay focused on their performance goals.
Injury prevention: Pre-event massage can help identify areas of muscle imbalance or tightness that may increase the risk of injury during physical activity. By addressing these issues beforehand, athletes can reduce the likelihood of sustaining injuries during their event.
Increased proprioception: Massage therapy can enhance proprioception, which is the body’s ability to sense its position and movement in space. This heightened awareness can help athletes maintain proper form and technique during exercise or competition.
Improved recovery: Pre-event massage can help prime the body’s recovery processes, facilitating faster recovery from strenuous physical activity and reducing post-exercise soreness.

Overall, pre-event massage can be a valuable tool for athletes looking to optimize their performance and reduce the risk of injury during competition. It is essential to consult with a qualified massage therapist who specializes in sports massage to ensure that the treatment is tailored to the individual’s needs and goals.

pre event sports massage services by livewell health

If you are a charity, company or event an event organiser and you are interested in working with the livewell team on your event, please contact us today and we can discuss having our team on site for you.

Livewell at PWC offices in Birmingham providing pre event massage

Tennis Elbow

Posted on May 3, 2024

Tennis elbow is a condition that causes pain around the outside of the elbow joint, the clinical name for this condition is known as lateral epicondylitis. It usually occurs after strenuous overuse of the muscles and tendons of the forearm. It is a very common musculoskeletal condition with an estimated 1 in 3 people having Tennis Elbow at any one time. The condition is more common in adults and across the age demographic of 30-50 years of age. Both Men and women are equally affected by this condition. Not surprisingly, and as the name suggests, playing tennis or other racquet sports can and is a big factor in the cause of this condition. However, several other sporting activities and non sporting activities can also put you at risk. Tennis elbow can be because of inflammation or, in some cases, small tears of the tendons that join the forearm muscles to the bone (epicondyle of the humerus) on the outside of the elbow.

Anatomy

Your elbow joint is a joint consisting of 3 bones. The first is in your upper arm and known as the Humerus. The other 2 bones are in your forearm and known as the Radius and Ulna bones. At the bottom of the humerus there are small bony prominences called epicondyles, where muscles within the forearm attach. The bony prominence located on the later side of the elbow (outside) is called the lateral epicondyle.

Muscles, ligaments, and tendons play a huge role in holding the elbow joint in position with strength but also flexibility to move.

Lateral epicondylitis, or tennis elbow, is a condition that affects the muscles and tendons of your forearm however extensive research has shown one particular muscle can play a large part in Tennis Elbow which is the Extensor Carpi Radialis Brevis (ECRB) muscle. The muscles associated with Tennis Elbow are responsible for the extension of your wrist and fingers.

Symptoms

The symptoms of tennis elbow usually develop over a long period of time. In the vast majority of tennis elbow cases the pain can just be minor and more of a side note but can worsen over time. In most cases there is no specific injury associated with the condition, it is usually a repetitive overuse injury but not in all cases.

Common signs and symptoms of tennis elbow include:

Pain or burning on the outer part of your elbow
Pain when lifting, twisting or bending your arm (with or without objects)
Weak grip strength
Sometimes, pain at night on the outside of your upper forearm, just below the elbow.
You may also find it difficult to fully extend your arm.
The symptoms are often worse when the forearm is being used in activities that can be as simple as pouring water into a cup, using a screw driver even shaking hands.

Causes

Overuse – Recent studies have show that a particular muscle, when damaged can play a large part in the cause of Tennis Elbow. This muscle, located in the forearm, is known as the extensor carpi radialis brevis (ECRB). It is a muscle that helps in stabilizing the wrist when the elbow is straight.

When the ECRB is injured / weakened from overuse or a specific incident, small tears appear in the tendon where it attaches to the lateral epicondyle (bony prominence). This of course then leads to inflammation and the resulting pain.

Studies also show, the ECRB could be at a greater risk of damage because of its position. As the elbow bends and straightens, the muscle rubs against bony bumps. This can cause gradual wear and tear of the muscle over time.

Activities – Activities play a large part in the cause of Tennis Elbow (Lateral epicondylitis). As you would expect Tennis and other racket sports are a factor in the case of Tennis Elbow (hence the name) however anyone can get it and it could even be down to work related overuse. Professionals such as Plumbers, Electricians, Carpenters, Factory Workers, Cooks and Butchers can get this condition based on how they are using their arm such as the use of screw drivers with the twisting actions etc

Age – Anyone can get Tennis Elbow at any stage in their life depending on the activities they are doing and how they are using their arm. That said, the majority of cases we see can range between the ages of 30 and 50.

Unknown – Tennis Elbow (Lateral epicondylitis) has been known to occur even without any particular reason such as repetitive over use etc. If this happens, it is called “idiopathic” or in layman’s terms, of an unknown cause.

Pain that occurs on the inner side of the elbow is often known as golfer’s elbow

Diagnosis

When discussing this issue with your doctor, they will take into consideration a number if factors before making a diagnosis. These will include how your symptoms developed, your work and your hobbies etc.

The Doctor will discuss how and when the symptoms occur and are more severe and where on the arm the pain / symptoms are materialising. You will need to make sure you inform your doctor of any underlying health issues such as Arthritis (RA or Osteo), you you have injured your elbow in the past or any other medical issues that has a baring on your elbow.

There are a number of tests the doctors can and should perform during your examination such as asking you to try straighten your wrist and fingers with the doctor providing resistance with your arm straight.

Your doctor may recommend additional tests such as X-rays, Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan or an Electromyography (EMG) – this will be to rule out nerve compression.

Treatment

Tennis elbow is a condition that will eventually get better over time, the length of time will be determined by how much you are using the arm in the way in which it was damaged in the first place. This may mean you will need to stay off certain activities indefinitely for a period of around 6-8 weeks. This could be shorter or longer depending on what state the injury is in.

However, there are treatments that can be used to speed up your recovery and ultimately help alleviate symptoms while you recover.

The first stage in any recover is REST. It is important you rest your injured arm and stop doing the activity that’s caused the problem in the first instance.

ICE – Apply a cold compress to the injured arm, such as a bag of frozen peas or a sports ice pack / gel pack for a few minutes several times a day, this will reduce inflammation and ease the pain. Some people have great success with contrast bathing the area so for example, icing the joint itself (the bony / tendinous areas) and using heat on the muscular areas such as Forearm to relax the muscles and speed up recover.

PAINKILLERS – Taking Paracetamol to ease the pain and Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory’s such as Ibuprofen to reduce the inflammation can help greatly whilst in recovery.

MASSAGE – Asking your personal Sports Therapist / Massage Therapist to perform a sports massage on the arm offering STR (Soft Tissue Release) as well as general massage to relax the area and stimulate blood flow can really help to speed up recovery and make you feel better.

PHYSIOTHERAPY – Physiotherapy should be considered with other conservative treatment options especially for more severe and persistent cases.

A good rehabilitation plan with those elements mentioned above has seen great results and improved recovery time as well as reduced inflammation, reduced pain and improvement to the range of movement in your arm.

SURGERY may be an option if the issue persists and you have gone through a considered and tailored physiotherapy and massage program as a last resort to remove the damaged part of the tendon.

Depending on the severity of your Tennis Elbow, recovery can take anything from a couple of months through to 2 years in the most extreme cases. Getting over such an injury should not be considered quick or with a magic treatment, recovery and repair takes time, getting the rehabilitation right is also a very important thing to consider to stop this reoccurring.

Exercises

There are a number of exercises you can perform to help in the recovery of Tennis Elbow but also to help strengthen the area to help in the preventing moving forward. We have put together a video of some of the popular and most effective exercises / rehabilitation programs for this condition. Alternatively you can consult one of our personal trainers or strength & conditioning coaches.

Prevention

It’s not easy to avoid getting tennis elbow as it can be very minor issues that cause it. However a dynamic and considered training program with a qualified strength and conditioning coach can really help. Further to this if your injury was caused through overuse then looking at reducing that particular activity until you have strengthen the area or looking at other ways to do the task in question will help.

Should you need any further information or help, please contact a member of our team. Alternatively you can book one of our Sports Therapists or Physiotherapists through our online booking system.

Tennis Elbow Main Image for article

Boosting Workplace Wellbeing at Inigo Insurance

Posted on April 30, 2024

Boosting Workplace Wellbeing at Inigo Insurance in London

In today’s fast-paced work environment, prioritising employee wellbeing has become essential for fostering a healthy and productive workplace culture. Recognizing this importance, Inigo Insurance recently partnered with LiveWell Health to provide their team with three days dedicated to enhancing their physical and mental wellness.

The first day kicked off with a blissful session of reflexology, where employees were treated to rejuvenating foot, hand and ear reflexology treatments in the comfort of a repurposed meeting room. Elle one of our Master Reflexologists, from LiveWell Health, worked her magic, relieving tension, reducing stress, and promoting relaxation with a combination of soothing techniques. As the gentle pressure melted away the worries of the day, the employees felt invigorated and ready to tackle their tasks with renewed energy.

on site reflexology with Elle

Next on the agenda was a day of office massage, Hannah one of our highly skilled massage therapists who specialises in on site massage, provided the employees with a day of relaxation and rejuventation. The massages focused on specific complaints that the employees were having such as neck tightness, lower back tightness and other muscular pains. With a mixture of soft and firm pressures, Hannah was able to provide a rare treat for the team at Inigo. The team experienced a deep sense of relaxation and a heightened state of balance, helping to alleviate both physical and mental stress.

office massage at inigo

Rounding off the wellbeing initiative over the month of April, was a day dedicated to medical acupuncture, an ancient healing practice that involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body to promote natural healing and pain relief. Under the guidance of qualified specialists from LiveWell Health, employees experienced the therapeutic benefits of this specialised service. From alleviating muscle pain and improving circulation to reducing anxiety and enhancing sleep quality, medical acupuncture proved to be a valuable addition to the employee wellbeing program.

Office wellbeing day went well by the looks of this picture

Throughout the three days, the team at Inigo Insurance embraced the opportunity to prioritise their health and wellness. By investing in these holistic therapies, the company demonstrated its commitment to supporting its employees’ physical and mental health, ultimately fostering a more positive and resilient workforce.
The feedback from employees was overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing gratitude for the opportunity to unwind and recharge amidst their busy schedules. From improved morale and reduced absenteeism to increased productivity and creativity, the benefits of the wellbeing initiative were felt across the organisation. As such, it is now being rolled out monthly as part of their wider employee benefits offering.

As workplaces continue to evolve, initiatives like these highlight the importance of prioritising employee wellbeing as a cornerstone of organisational success. By investing in holistic therapies and wellness programs, companies like Inigo Insurance are not only nurturing the health and happiness of their employees but also cultivating a culture of care and compassion that sets them apart in today’s competitive landscape.

In conclusion, the partnership between Inigo Insurance and LiveWell Health exemplifies the power of proactive wellness initiatives in creating happier, healthier, and more engaged workplaces. Through thoughtful investments in employee wellbeing, organisations can pave the way for long-term success and prosperity, one rejuvenated employee at a time.

If you are interested in finding out how LiveWell Health can work with you on your employee wellbeing initiatives, please contact us today.

Spring Wolf Run 2024

Posted on April 29, 2024

Conquering the Elements: Our Experience at the Spring Wolf Run

The Spring Wolf Run proved to be a weekend of adrenaline, camaraderie, and unforgettable challenges as participants braved rain, mud, and cold temperatures to conquer the wild terrain. As proud supporters of outdoor adventure and physical fitness, we were thrilled to be part of this epic event and provide essential recovery services to the intrepid Wolf Runners.

The Livewell recovery hub all set up and ready to go

Setting up our one-of-a-kind recovery hub, LIVE|Recover, we transformed the muddy landscape into an oasis of relaxation and rejuvenation. Equipped with state-of-the-art recovery tools and amenities, our recovery hub offered a sanctuary for weary runners in need of post-event care and restoration.

The livewell team ready and waiting to help the wolf runners recover

Amidst the rugged wilderness, our recovery hub featured ice recovery pods, providing relief for tired muscles and joints with targeted cold therapy. Meanwhile, mobile hot saunas with infrared light technology offered warmth and relaxation, allowing participants to unwind and recharge after a challenging day on the course.
For those seeking advanced recovery solutions, our compression boot therapy with anti-gravity chairs provided therapeutic relief, promoting circulation and reducing muscle soreness. Participants could also indulge in sports massage therapy, where our skilled therapists worked their magic to alleviate tension and improve recovery. In addition to these specialised services, our recovery hub boasted a stretch and recovery zone complete with theraguns, foam rollers, and other recovery tools to help runners optimise their recovery process and prepare for future adventures.

The inside of the recovery hub

Throughout the weekend, our team was on hand to patch up the Wolf Runners, offering support, encouragement, and expert care to ensure they could return to the course feeling refreshed and revitalised. Despite the challenging conditions, spirits remained high as participants embraced the spirit of adventure and camaraderie that defines the Wolf Run experience.

A wolf runner experiencing the cold plunge pods

As the sun set on the final day of the event, we couldn’t help but feel a sense of pride and satisfaction knowing that we had played a role in supporting the resilience and determination of the Wolf Runners. The Spring Wolf Run was more than just a race; it was a testament to the indomitable human spirit and the power of community coming together to overcome obstacles and achieve greatness.

Chante performing post event sports massage at the spring wolf run 2024

Looking ahead, we are excited to continue our partnership with the Wolf Run and provide essential recovery services to participants at future events. Whether rain or shine, mud or cold, we remain committed to helping adventurers push their limits and conquer new challenges, one muddy step at a time.

two ladies all warmed up enjoying the compression boot therapy

If you’re organising an outdoor adventure event and are in need of on-site recovery services, look no further than LIVE|Recover. Our team is dedicated to providing exceptional care and support to participants, ensuring they have the best possible experience before, during, and after their adventure. Together, we can conquer the elements and embrace the spirit of adventure with confidence and determination.

For further information please contact a member of our team to see how we can help your next event.

Supporting The British Heart Foundation – Manchester Marathon

Posted on April 28, 2024

Participating in the Manchester Marathon to support the British Heart Foundation (BHF) was an incredibly rewarding experience for our team. As advocates for health and well-being, we were honoured to provide post-event massage (sports massage) services to the dedicated runners who took on the challenge in support of heart health.

With a team of skilled sports therapists ready to lend a helping hand, we were able to offer much-needed recovery and support to the participants who had just completed the 26.2-mile race through the vibrant streets of Manchester. The atmosphere was buzzing with excitement and determination as runners crossed the finish line, and our manchester team was there to provide a comforting touch and expert care to help them recover and rejuvenate after their incredible achievement.

For years, we have been proud supporters of the British Heart Foundation and its mission to promote heart health and fund life-saving research. The Manchester Marathon provided us with an opportunity to directly contribute to this important cause and make a positive impact on the lives of those affected by heart disease.
As runners approached our recovery zone where we were providing the much needed sports massage, weary but triumphant, our team greeted them with smiles and encouragement. We listened to their stories of triumph and perseverance, offering a sympathetic ear and a healing touch to soothe tired muscles and alleviate post-race aches and pains.

The sense of camaraderie and community at the Manchester Marathon was palpable, with runners, supporters, and volunteers coming together to celebrate the achievements of the participants and raise awareness for heart health. It was inspiring to see individuals of all ages and backgrounds unite in support of a common cause, fueled by a shared passion for making a difference.

Marvin doing Post Event Sports Massage at the Manchester Event with British Heart Foundation

As the day progressed and the last of the runners crossed the finish line, we couldn’t help but feel a sense of pride and gratitude for being a part of such a meaningful event. The Manchester Marathon with the British Heart Foundation is more than just a race; it’s a powerful symbol of hope, resilience, and the unwavering commitment to promoting heart health and saving lives.

As we packed up our massage tables and reflected on the day’s events, we were reminded of the importance of supporting organisations like the British Heart Foundation in their mission to fight heart disease and improve cardiovascular health. Our partnership with the BHF has allowed us to directly impact the lives of those affected by heart disease, and we are committed to continuing our support in the years to come.

If you’re organising an event and are in need of on-site event massage or recovery services, please don’t hesitate to contact us. Our team are dedicated to providing exceptional care and support to participants and with our latest venture, LIVE|Recover, we ensure they have the best possible experience before, during, and after their event. Together, we can make a difference and support worthy causes like the British Heart Foundation in their mission to promote heart health and save lives.

For further information, please contact a member of our team today and we will be only too happy to help!

Marvin and Amad at the Manchester Marathon doing Sports Massage

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