Why My Serve Isn’t What It Used to Be!

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The Mystery Behind My Struggling Serve

I’ve been struggling with my serve lately, especially when it comes to achieving full rotation. I decided to call in the expert—”Magic Fingers” at Trident. After a thorough evaluation, Dave delivered the bad news: my range of motion has decreased by 18 cm since we measured it five years ago. My thoracic spine feels like “concrete,” and I just can’t rotate my torso the way I used to.

The Importance of Thoracic Mobility for Tennis Players

Thoracic spine mobility—specifically rotation and extension—is crucial for excelling in tennis and other rotational sports. Research shows that elite tennis players demonstrate approximately 20 degrees more trunk rotation than non-elite players. Ideally, you should aim for ~45 degrees of rotation on each side, with symmetrical movement.

Why Does Thoracic Mobility Matter?

In tennis, powerful and precise ball contact during serves and ground strokes hinges on upper back mobility. Limited thoracic motion can reduce power output and increase the risk of injuries to the lower back, neck, and shoulders. The thoracic spine is also closely connected to the cervical (neck) and lumbar (lower back) regions, as well as the scapula, directly impacting shoulder mobility.

By improving thoracic mobility, you enhance overall biomechanics, reduce stress on interconnected areas, and ultimately elevate your game while minimizing injury risk.

Key Takeaways

Improving thoracic mobility isn’t just about injury prevention; it’s about reaching your peak performance on the court. Addressing restrictions can help you generate more power, achieve better ball control, and reduce stress on vulnerable areas of your body.

And yes, Dave has prescribed a series of exercises to work on this issue. You’ll definitely know when it’s fixed—my serve will have a whole lot more zip!

Perskindol: A Game-Changer for Muscle Recovery for Tennis Seniors

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One of the unexpected perks of attending the Tennis Seniors events in Adelaide last week was observing how players manage the wear and tear of extended play and overuse injuries. Watching seasoned competitors, you learn a lot about strategies for recovery and staying on the court.

During the event, I was introduced to a product that was new to me but well-known among the Seniors community: Perskindol. It’s designed to alleviate muscle aches effectively, without relying on chemical or medicinal active ingredients. (And no, I can’t say I miss the dry mouth, lethargic feeling from too much ibuprofen or the unmistakable smell of Dencorub—thankfully, Perskindol brings its own unique charm.)

What is Perskindol?

Perskindol offers a natural and gentle alternative for pain relief, making it ideal for those who want to avoid potential interactions with medications. Suitable for adults and children aged six and above, it’s versatile and can be used as frequently as needed. According to its advocates, pain relief kicks in within just 15 minutes and lasts for 5–6 hours.

I saw its effectiveness firsthand through a fellow competitor, Pam, who swore by it after enduring four grueling days of marathon play—eight sets every day on court. Perskindol got her back in action, and adrenaline did the rest. If it worked for her, it might just be worth trying for yourself!

How Much Ibuprofen Is Too Much?

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Ibuprofen, commonly marketed as Advil, Motrin, or Nuprin, is widely recognized for its effectiveness in relieving pain, reducing inflammation, and lowering fever. While it is a valuable tool for managing discomfort, especially among tennis players dealing with minor injuries, it is crucial to use it responsibly.

Dosage Guidelines:

Recommended OTC Limit: Adults should take 200-400 mg every 4-6 hours as needed, not exceeding 1,200 mg (6 pills) in 24 hours.
Prescription Use: Doctors may prescribe up to 3,200 mg/day short-term for conditions like injuries or post-surgery inflammation.
Key Advice: Without a doctor’s guidance, stick to the 1,200 mg daily limit.

When to Be Cautious:  Conditions to Watch For:

Kidney disease, liver issues, high blood pressure, heart failure, stomach ulcers, or pregnancy (after 20 weeks).
Medication Interactions: Diuretics, anticoagulants, ACE inhibitors, ARBs, and some cold medicines may increase risks.
Long-Term Use Risks: Stomach ulcers, kidney strain, heart risks, and rebound headaches.

Tips for Safe Use:

Take ibuprofen with food to reduce stomach irritation.
Avoid doubling up on ibuprofen through combination products like cold medicines.
Use the minimum dose for the shortest duration (no more than 1-2 weeks without consulting a doctor).

Signs to See a Doctor:

Pain persists for more than two weeks.
You rely on ibuprofen regularly or at high doses.
Proper use of ibuprofen can relieve pain effectively, but monitoring your intake and understanding risks is essential for safety.
Source: NYTimes

Aging Well: Embrace the Exercises You Love to Hate

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Revisiting Disliked Exercises

The Psychological Importance of Challenging Exercises

  • Many individuals avoid exercises they dislike, but overcoming such challenges can be a boost to confidence and mental resilience.
  • Studies suggest trying new, challenging activities outside one’s comfort zone, including disliked exercises, can improve life satisfaction.

Modifying Exercises for Comfort and Effectiveness

Experts emphasize that most exercises can be modified to suit individual capabilities while still offering benefits:
  1. Planks
    • Importance: Builds core strength crucial for posture and stability.
    • Adjustments: Perform on knees or elevate the upper body using a chair, table, or wall.
  2. Jumping Exercises
    • Importance: Improves balance, coordination, and reaction time.
    • Adjustments: Begin with low-impact variations like stepping jacks or box step-ups.
  3. Squats
    • Importance: Fundamental for mobility and independence, aiding in movements like sitting and standing.
    • Adjustments: Start with bench-assisted squats or single-leg variations to gradually build strength and balance.
  4. Deadlifts
    • Importance: Strengthens hamstrings and glutes, alleviating back stress.
    • Adjustments: Begin with light dumbbells, focus on hip mobility, and practice the hip hinge motion.
  5. Burpees
    • Importance: A full-body exercise that improves endurance and strength.
    • Adjustments: Simplify by stepping instead of jumping, skipping the push-up, or slowing down the pace.

Key Takeaways

  • Skipping disliked exercises entirely might limit fitness gains, but adapting them ensures progress without discomfort.
  • The goal is to build confidence, improve technique, and enjoy long-term physical benefits.
Source: SMH 24Dec24

How to Enjoy Living as You Age

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1. Physical Fitness

  • Why it matters: Staying active helps maintain mobility, strength, and cardiovascular health, enabling you to enjoy activities like dancing, hiking, and playing with grand kids.
  • Key actions:
    • Incorporate both aerobic and strength-based exercises.
    • Mix activities for endurance, speed, and balance.
    • Counteract natural declines in cardiorespiratory fitness and muscle mass.

2. Healthy Eating

  • Why it matters: Aging alters nutrient needs, making a balanced diet essential for preventing issues like sarcopenia, osteoporosis, and anemia.
  • Key actions:
    • Increase protein intake by 25% from your 50s.
    • Focus on calcium, vitamin D, and B12 for bone health and energy.
    • Chew food thoroughly to enhance nutrient absorption and digestion.
    • Visit the dentist regularly to maintain dental health.

3. Skincare

  • Why it matters: Skin health affects both external appearance and internal wellness, influencing inflammation and overall health.
  • Key actions:
    • Use moisturizers with niacinamide (daytime) and retinol (nighttime).
    • Add vitamin C serums and sunscreen (SPF50) for protection and rejuvenation.
    • Explore treatments like marine collagen supplements or cosmetic therapies for enhanced aesthetics.
    • Support skin health with good gut health, quality sleep, and resistance training.

4. Brain Health

  • Why it matters: Cognitive functions like memory and decision-making can improve with care, while risks like dementia can be mitigated through lifestyle.
  • Key actions:
    • Engage in aerobic exercise to maintain and even grow brain volume.
    • Manage high blood pressure with regular exercise, a plant-based diet, and reduced salt/alcohol intake.
    • Stay mentally active by nurturing relationships and learning new skills.

The Takeaway

Aging well is achievable through consistent effort in fitness, nutrition, skincare, and brain health. Embrace a holistic, proactive approach to maintain vitality and enjoy the benefits of deeper relationships, greater acceptance, and improved quality of life as you age.
Source: SMH 24Dev24

Stay Cool, Play Smart: Surviving the Summer Heat

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Understanding Heat Risks

– Prolonged sun exposure can cause:
  – Dehydration
  – Heat exhaustion
  – Sunburn
  – Decreased performance
  – Potential heat stroke

Hydration Strategies

– Drink water before, during, and after play
– Consume electrolyte drinks to replace lost minerals
– Aim for 250-500ml of fluid per hour of play
– Avoid caffeine and alcohol before matches

Sun Protection Essentials

– Use high SPF sunscreen (50+ recommended)
– Reapply sunscreen every 2 hours
– Wear lightweight, long-sleeved shirts
– Choose light-colored, breathable clothing
– Wear a wide-brimmed hat
– Use UV-protective sunglasses

Heat Management Techniques

– Schedule play during cooler parts of day
– Take frequent shade breaks
– Use cooling towels or neck wraps
– Wear moisture-wicking clothing
– Apply sunscreen 30 minutes before sun exposure

Physical Preparation

– Acclimatize to heat gradually
– Reduce intensity during hottest periods
– Listen to your body
– Know the signs of heat-related illness

Emergency Warning Signs

– Dizziness
– Headache
– Nausea
– Extreme fatigue
– Muscle cramps
– Confusion

When to Stop Playing

– If experiencing any heat illness symptoms
– When body feels overheated
– If feeling weak or disoriented

Additional Tips

– Carry a personal cooling kit
– Use portable fans
– Keep extra water and electrolyte drinks
– Have a buddy system to monitor each other

Remember: Your health is more important than the match!

Finally, another helpful resource developed by the International Tennis Federation is set out below.
… 
Please excuse any typos as this was sent from my iPhone

Application of Infrared (IR) Therapy to Tennis-Related Soft Tissue Injuries

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Infrared (IR) therapy offers a targeted, non-invasive approach to enhance recovery and mitigate the effects of soft tissue injuries in tennis players. Adapted from the principles of photobiomodulation, IR therapy focuses on the delivery of infrared wavelengths to injured tissues to accelerate healing and reduce pain.

Mechanism of IR Therapy in Tissue Healing

  1. Mitochondrial Activation:
    • Infrared wavelengths, particularly in the near-infrared (600–1100 nm) spectrum, are absorbed by mitochondrial chromophores such as cytochrome c oxidase (CCO). This triggers enhanced ATP production and nitric oxide release, providing cells with increased energy to support tissue repair and healing.
  2. Enhanced Circulation:
    • Nitric oxide-induced vasodilation improves blood flow to the affected area, ensuring efficient delivery of oxygen and nutrients essential for recovery.
  3. Reduction in Pain and Inflammation:
    • IR therapy decreases inflammation by modulating reactive oxygen species (ROS) and activating cellular signaling pathways, alleviating the discomfort associated with acute or chronic tennis injuries.
  4. Tissue Regeneration:
    • Promotes collagen synthesis and stimulates stem cell activity, aiding in the regeneration of injured ligaments, tendons, and muscle tissue.
  5. Deeper Penetration:
    • IR wavelengths effectively penetrate deep into soft tissues, making it suitable for addressing both superficial and deep-seated injuries like tendinopathies or ligament damage.

Applications in Tennis Injury Management

  1. Acute Injuries (Sprains, Strains):
    • Applying IR therapy early can reduce swelling, alleviate pain, and create an environment conducive to rapid healing.
  2. Chronic Overuse Injuries (e.g., Tennis Elbow, Tendonitis):
    • Consistent use of IR therapy can enhance tendon repair by promoting collagen production and reducing chronic inflammation.
  3. Post-Surgical Recovery:
    • Following procedures such as rotator cuff or ligament repair, IR therapy accelerates healing, reduces scar tissue formation, and aids functional restoration.
  4. Muscle Recovery Post-Match:
    • Non-injured athletes can benefit from IR therapy to decrease muscle soreness and recover faster after intense matches or practice sessions.

Key Considerations for Effective Use

  • Dosage and Parameters:
    • Optimal results require the correct intensity and duration. IR wavelengths between 600–1100 nm and energy levels within therapeutic ranges (<100 mW/cm², fluence of 0.04–50 J/cm²) ensure safe and effective outcomes.
  • Patient Preparation:
    • Ensure the target area is clean and free of barriers like sweat, lotion, or clothing for maximum infrared penetration.
  • Session Frequency:
    • Regular application, typically several times a week, produces the best results. Chronic injuries may require extended treatment periods.
  • Safety Precautions:
    • Avoid excessive exposure to prevent potential overheating of tissues.

Integration with Tennis Training and Recovery

  1. Immediate Post-Injury Use:
    • Integrate IR therapy into physiotherapy routines immediately following an injury for targeted tissue repair.
  2. Injury Prevention:
    • Regular application to areas prone to overuse, such as the shoulders, elbows, and knees, helps prevent chronic conditions.
  3. Combined with Functional Training:
    • Pair IR therapy with light exercises and balance drills to reinforce muscle coordination and prevent future injuries.
Infrared therapy is a versatile and effective tool for managing tennis injuries, promoting quicker recovery, and enhancing overall athletic performance. Its ability to target both superficial and deep tissues makes it a valuable addition to any tennis player’s recovery toolkit.
Source: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4126803/

Guts & Glory: Nadal’s Battle with Injuries

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Rafael Nadal’s career was marked by a series of injuries, reflecting the toll his relentless playing style and genetic vulnerabilities took on his body. Here’s a summary of his injury history and management strategies:

History of Injuries:

  1. Muller-Weiss Syndrome:
    • Diagnosed at 18, this rare congenital condition affected the navicular bone in his left foot, causing pain and vulnerability to lower-body injuries. This condition defined his career challenges from beginning to end.
  2. Ankle and Knee Issues:
    • Stress fractures and patellar tendinitis in the early 2000s sidelined him, notably in 2004 and 2009. These injuries stemmed partly from the adjustments made for his foot condition.
  3. Wrist and Shoulder Injuries:
    • Persistent wrist injuries, including a torn tendon in 2016, and recurring shoulder pain impacted his ability to maintain consistency.
  4. Hip and Abdominal Strains:
    • Late in his career, hip and abdominal injuries became prominent, including during the 2023 Australian Open and the 2022 Wimbledon semifinal.
  5. General Wear and Tear:
    • Accumulated damage over two decades from his physical playing style, including significant strain on his back and joints.

Management and Adaptations:

  1. Customized Footwear:
    • Specialized shoes redistributed weight away from the damaged bone, enabling him to continue playing but also contributing to knee and back issues.
  2. Selective Tournament Participation:
    • Nadal often skipped hard-court seasons and reduced his schedule to focus on events that suited his strengths and minimized physical strain.
  3. Advanced Rehabilitation:
    • His team employed cutting-edge physiotherapy, strength training, and recovery techniques, including surgery when necessary.
  4. Mental Fortitude:
    • Nadal’s resilience and psychological strength allowed him to overcome injuries and remain competitive. This mindset was integral to his training and recovery.
  5. Strategic Training:
    • Focused on specific drills that minimized impact while maximizing performance, allowing him to adapt his game over time.
Despite his injuries, Nadal’s extraordinary mental strength and adaptability enabled him to achieve one of the most successful careers in tennis history. This approach serves as an example of managing chronic conditions while performing at the highest level.
Source: Rafael Nadal retires from tennis after 20 years of preparing his body to ‘die on the court’

Tennis in the Age of Extreme Heat: Tennis4Life

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Extreme heat poses a growing threat to tennis players, pushing the limits of human endurance and necessitating critical adjustments to match schedules, player preparation, and tournament policies to ensure safety on the court.
The future implications of extreme heat for tennis players hinge on how heat affects human physiological limits and current tournament heat policies. With rising global temperatures, players will face conditions potentially beyond human tolerance, especially given that scientists now believe core body temperature rises uncontrollably at lower wet bulb temperatures than previously thought. For example, heatwaves in regions such as India, the Persian Gulf, and parts of the United States could increasingly hit 31°C wet bulb temperatures, a level potentially lethal even for healthy individuals within hours under sustained exposure.
In practical terms, tennis governing bodies may need to reassess heat policies and enforce stricter protective measures. Current heat rules typically allow for pauses or match rescheduling under extreme heat, but the risk to players’ safety may require more stringent, preventative action as dangerous wet bulb thresholds become common. This could mean earlier match suspensions, shorter on-court playing times, or limiting certain tournament hours to avoid the hottest parts of the day, particularly in vulnerable regions.
Further, prolonged extreme heat exposure can hinder player performance and recovery, requiring a shift in pre-match preparation and acclimatization routines to handle heat stress. Enhanced training on hydration strategies, cooling techniques, and mental preparation under heat pressure will also be crucial. Given that adverse effects are felt well before the human threshold, tournament organizers will need to integrate these strategies into their protocols proactively.
Source:  Why Heat Waves of the Future May Be Even Deadlier Than Feared, NYT 25 Oct

The Silent Threat of Retinal Detachment: Tennis4Life

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Last week, I underwent laser surgery to repair a small tear in my left eye. Unfortunately, the situation escalated when liquid penetrated under the retina after surgery, causing more floaters and requiring additional surgeries.

The risk of retinal detachment, a severe condition affecting about 1 in every 300 people, became very real to me. Without timely intervention, this condition can lead to permanent vision loss.

Understanding Retinal Detachment

The retina, a thin layer at the back of the eye, plays a vital role in capturing images and sending them to the brain. Retinal detachment occurs when the retina separates from the back of the eye due to fluid seeping underneath, which typically follows a retinal tear. Common causes include eye trauma, infections, or complications from surgery.

Risk Factors

As we age, the risk of retinal detachment increases due to changes in the vitreous fluid in the eye. Other risk factors include extreme nearsightedness, family history, genetic conditions and previous eye surgeries or injuries, particularly in sports such as tennis.

Warning Signs

Retinal detachment is painless, making it hard to detect without being aware of the symptoms. Some key signs include:
– Sudden flashes of light when moving the eyes
– Increased floaters in one eye
– A shadow or curtain spreading across your vision
– Distorted vision

Prevention

Regular eye exams are essential to catch issues early. Protect your vision by living a healthy lifestyle, exercising, and using protective eye wear.

Tennis players often focus on physical fitness and match strategy, but remember to take care of your eyes, as vision is crucial for performance.

If you notice any unusual changes, consult an eye specialist immediately—early action could save your vision!

Want to learn more about the critical role vision plays in tennis? Click links below for further reading.

Key Traits of Aging Role Models: Lessons in Purpose, Resilience, and Vitality

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Aging role models share several common traits that contribute to their vitality, success, and fulfillment in later life. Here are some key characteristics they exhibit:
1. **Purpose and Passion**
   All of these individuals are deeply passionate about their work or hobbies. Whether it’s conservation, law, fashion, or physical fitness, they maintain a strong sense of purpose, which keeps them motivated and engaged. Having a meaningful pursuit in life helps them stay mentally sharp and emotionally fulfilled.
2. **Continuous Learning and Growth**
   These role models embrace lifelong learning and personal development. They’re not afraid to explore new avenues or take on challenges. For example, Tao Porchon-Lynch began ballroom dancing in her late 80s, and David Attenborough continues to expand his understanding of the natural world well into his 90s. Staying curious and intellectually active is a powerful anti-aging trait.
3. **Resilience and Perseverance**
   Many of these individuals have faced significant challenges, whether health-related (like Ruth Bader Ginsburg’s multiple bouts with cancer) or personal setbacks. Their ability to persevere through adversity with determination shows how resilience plays a vital role in successful aging. They don’t let difficulties define or limit them.
4. **Physical Activity and Health**
   Physical vitality is common among these role models. They stay active, whether through yoga (Tao Porchon-Lynch), swimming (Diana Nyad), or simply maintaining an active lifestyle (Jane Goodall). Regular physical activity helps keep both the body and mind healthy as we age, reducing the risk of chronic conditions and boosting longevity.
5. **Adaptability and Openness to Change**
   A willingness to adapt and embrace change is evident in these figures. They don’t cling to the past but instead are open to evolving. For instance, Iris Apfel has continued to redefine her fashion career and influence well into her 100s, showing adaptability in a fast-changing industry.
 6. **Strong Social Connections**
   Many of these role models maintain strong relationships and connections with their communities. Whether it’s through mentoring, advocacy, or collaboration, they remain engaged with others. Social connections are critical for emotional well-being and can help prevent isolation, a common issue with aging.
7. **Optimism and Positive Attitude**
   A positive outlook on life is a shared trait among these individuals. Betty White’s humor and light-heartedness, Maya Angelou’s wisdom and hope, and David Attenborough’s passion for conservation all highlight the importance of maintaining a positive attitude. Optimism contributes to better mental health and a longer, more fulfilling life.
8. **Contribution to Society**
   These individuals continue to give back to society through their work, whether it’s through law, environmentalism, or creativity. They don’t see aging as a time to step back; instead, they find ways to remain influential and contribute to their communities, which gives them a sense of purpose and accomplishment.
9. **Mind-Body Connection**
   Many of them understand and respect the connection between mind and body. Engaging in physical exercise, staying mentally active, and practicing mindfulness or creative expression keeps both their mental and physical health in balance.
10. **Sense of Humor**
   Maintaining a sense of humor, even in the face of challenges, is another common trait. Betty White is a prime example of someone who used humor to maintain her sense of youthfulness, showing how a good laugh can help maintain a lighthearted perspective on life.
These traits highlight that aging well isn’t just about avoiding illness or staying physically fit—it’s about maintaining passion, connection, resilience, and a sense of purpose. These role models show us that aging can be a time of thriving, growth, and continued contribution.