With the rugby season in Western Province starting this month (April) it is a given that players will get injured.
People’s Post spoke to Jihaan Cloete from Crawford about sports injuries common among rugby players.
“For 20 years, I was in the events industry and owned a coffee shop in Rondebosch, and then the Covid-19 pandemic hit the world.
“Due to Covid I was forced to change my career as the events and hospitality industry had taken too long to open. Health and wellness are my passion and being a mother of four rugby players inspired me to study sports therapy.”
At her practice, on the corner of Seventh Avenue and Kromboom Road, Rondebosch East, she treats many knee injuries, plantar fasciitis, achilles tendonitis and sciatic nerve damage.
“I treat sportsmen and women with cupping and intravenous therapy. Cupping therapy is one of the only treatments that manually removes inflammation.
“After that one’s body goes into repair mode and the body produces brand new blood cells that enhance healing. The treatment involves placing special cups on the skin to create suction. Then tiny incisions are made to remove the inflammation. This process is believed to improve blood flow, relieve pain and promote healing by drawing toxins to the surface and encouraging the body’s natural healing processes.
“IV Therapy (Intravenous Therapy) is a medical treatment where fluids, vitamins, minerals or medication are delivered directly into the bloodstream through an intravenous drip. This method allows for quick absorption and is commonly used to rehydrate, boost energy or support recovery from illness or nutrient deficiencies.”
Cloete believes prevention is better than cure. It is common knowledge that players would rather hide their injuries from the coach and/or coaching staff so as not to be in the starting line-up for a game.
“Preparing the body before training and a game is vital to prevent injuries. Stretching before training should be part of the players’ routine. Yoga strengthens the muscles and bones making the player less prone to injuries. Do not take too long to see a sports therapist if there is an injury as the situation might get worse.”
She loves being active and training is her solace. Cloete does yoga, swimming and dance training and the latter is her favourite.
She also teaches Swedish massage, aromatherapy and sports massage. Her website is www.jihaancloete.co.za or you can contact her on 078 441 6260.
