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Peptides for Injury Recovery: What Patients Should Know About BPC-157 and Other “Healing Peptides”

Dr. David E. Manning, Sport Physician
MD CCFP(SEM) DipSportMed.

Peptides are one of the most talked-about topics in sports medicine right now — but the science is still catching up. At Group23 Sports Medicine, one of the most common questions we receive from patients interested in regenerative medicine is: “What do you think about peptides like BPC-157?”

Many patients first hear about these compounds from:

  • podcasts
  • social media influencers
  • fitness communities
  • other athletes

Peptides are often promoted online as therapies that may:

  • accelerate tendon healing
  • repair ligaments
  • speed surgical recovery
  • improve muscle growth
  • enhance athletic performance

Some people even refer to combinations of peptides as the “Wolverine stack” because of their supposed regenerative effects.

But what does the actual scientific evidence show?

First Things First – So What Are Peptides?

Peptides are short chains of amino acids that act as signaling molecules within the body.

Some peptides are well-established medications used every day in medicine.

Examples include:

  • Insulin – regulates blood sugar in diabetes
  • GLP-1 medications (semaglutide, tirzepatide) – used for diabetes and weight management
  • Calcitonin – used in bone metabolism disorders

These medications underwent years of clinical trials and regulatory review before becoming approved treatments.

In contrast, most “peptides” discussed in sports medicine or biohacking communities are experimental compounds that have not been approved for medical use.

The Most Popular Injury-Related Peptide: BPC-157

One of the most widely discussed peptides is BPC-157 (Body Protection Compound-157).

BPC-157 is a synthetic fragment derived from a gastric protein.

Laboratory research suggests potential effects including:

  • stimulation of angiogenesis (formation of new blood vessels)
  • improved collagen organization
  • accelerated tendon and ligament healing
  • anti-inflammatory effects

Animal studies have demonstrated promising results in muscle, tendon, ligament, and bone injury models.

Examples of these studies include:

However, human clinical evidence remains extremely limited. Most human data consist of small case series without control groups, making it difficult to determine whether improvements are due to the peptide, placebo effect, or natural healing.

Example:

Because of the limited evidence base, BPC-157 is:

Other Peptides Patients Commonly Ask About

1. TB-500 (derived from Thymosin Beta-4)

Often promoted to:

  • accelerate muscle recovery
  • reduce inflammation
  • improve flexibility

However, current evidence is largely limited to animal and laboratory studies, and strong human clinical trial evidence is lacking.

2. Growth Hormone–Related Peptides

Examples include:

  • CJC-1295 (a GHRH analogue)
  • Ipamorelin (a growth hormone secretagogue)
  • GHRP-2 (a growth hormone secretagogue)

These peptides stimulate the body’s growth hormone signaling pathways, which can influence connective tissue metabolism.

However, increased growth hormone activity may carry risks such as:

  • insulin resistance
  • fluid retention and joint swelling
  • cardiovascular complications
  • abnormal tissue growth

Human orthopaedic evidence remains limited, and most musculoskeletal data are still preclinical.

Example:

Collagen Peptides: A Different Category

Not all “peptides” are the same.

“Collagen peptides” are oral supplements, not injectable experimental drugs.

They provide amino acid building blocks used in connective tissue.

Clinical studies suggest collagen supplementation may help:

  • reduce knee osteoarthritis pain
  • improve joint function
  • support tendon rehabilitation when combined with exercise

Examples of Osteoarthritis studies:

Examples of Tendon studies:

Unlike injectable peptides, collagen supplements function as nutritional support, not pharmacologic signaling molecules.

Collage Peptide in Practice – How we use at Group23

At Group23, when we are supporting patients with tendinopathy or tendon injury, we often incorporate targeted nutritional strategies alongside exercise based rehabilitation under physiotherapy guidance.

A common approach includes:

  • Whole Body Collagen – taken daily
  • Vitamin C+ BioFizz – taken daily

This combination is used to help support:

  • collagen synthesis
  • tendon structure and repair
  • overall connective tissue health

Vitamin C plays an important role in collagen formation, and pairing it with collagen supplementation may help optimize the body’s ability to build and remodel tendon tissue, particularly when combined with appropriate loading and exercise.

Patients with Osteoarthritis will often do a trial of Collage Peptides as well as some find it helpful to assist in the management of this chronic progressive disease.

You can access these Collagen and Vitamin C products through our online store:

Peptides vs BCAAs (Common Patient Confusion)

Patients often confuse peptides with amino acid supplements like BCAAs.

BCAAs

  • leucine
  • isoleucine
  • valine

These are nutritional supplements that support muscle repair and protein synthesis.

Peptides

Peptides are biologically active signaling molecules that influence cellular pathways.

They behave more like drugs than supplements, which is why clinical trials are required to establish safety and effectiveness.

Why Are Peptides So Popular?

  • Biohacking culture
  • People want to optimize performance and longevity
  • Social media influence
  • Peptides are widely promoted as recovery “shortcuts”
  • Frustration with slow healing = lack of education by providers on how long tendon/ligament injuries can take to “repair”
  • Athletes often seek ways to speed recovery beyond natural timelines

A Major Concern: Unregulated Products

Currently:

  • most peptides are not approved by Health Canada or the FDA
  • manufacturing is largely unregulated
  • quality control is inconsistent

This makes it difficult to verify:

  • product purity
  • dosing accuracy
  • contamination risk

Current Medical Consensus

“Peptides show biological promise in preclinical research but lack sufficient human evidence for routine clinical use”

Important unknowns include:

  • dosing
  • frequency
  • duration
  • long-term safety

How Group23 Approaches Regenerative Medicine

At Group23 Sports Medicine, we focus on treatments supported by the strongest evidence:

These treatments currently have far stronger clinical evidence than experimental peptide therapies.

Key Clinical Takeaways for Patients

  • Most peptides show promise in animal studies but lack strong human evidence
  • Safety, dosing, and product quality remain uncertain = RISK
  • Evidence-based treatments (PRP/SportVis combined with Physiotherapy) remain the most reliable approach today

Common Patient Questions About Peptides

Do peptides like BPC-157 actually work?

They show promising results in animal studies, but human evidence is limited, so we cannot confirm real clinical benefit.

Are peptides safe?

We don’t know!!

Safety is uncertain due to:

  • lack of long-term data
  • inconsistent dosing
  • unregulated products
  • which “peptide” you are referring to – there are a lot of different types!

Why don’t doctors prescribe them?

Because there is not enough high-quality human evidence to support routine clinical use and they are not currently approved for use in Humans by Health Canada or the FDA.

Are peptides better than PRP?

No — PRP and other regenerative therapies currently have much stronger clinical evidence.

Are collagen supplements the same thing?

No.

  • Collagen = nutritional support with human evidence
  • Injectable peptides = experimental signaling compounds

If I try peptides anyway?

Understand that:

  • benefits are uncertain
  • risks are unknown
  • product quality varies

We encourage patients to keep us informed so we can support your care safely.

Peptide Research in Canada – Where do things stand in 2026?

While much of the conversation around peptides comes from social media and fitness communities, there is also ongoing scientific work — including here in Canada — exploring their potential role in medicine.

The Canadian Peptide Research Society is one organization helping advance peptide science in Canada through:

  • research collaboration
  • education and training
  • scientific conferences and knowledge sharing
  • exploration of emerging clinical applications

You can learn more about their work here:

Current research efforts in Canada and internationally are focused on:

  • developing peptide-based medications (e.g., metabolic and hormone therapies)
  • understanding how peptides influence tissue repair and inflammation
  • advancing drug discovery and personalized medicine

However, in musculoskeletal medicine specifically:

  • most research remains preclinical (animal and laboratory studies)
  • high-quality human clinical trials are still limited

What this means for patients:

Peptide research is an active and evolving field, and Canada is contributing to its development.

At the same time: most peptide therapies discussed for injury recovery are still considered experimental and have not yet reached the level of evidence required for routine clinical use.

Deeper Dive into the Most Recent Publications

Injectable Peptide Therapy in Sports Medicine (2026)

Key findings:

  • most peptides lack human clinical evidence
  • significant research still needed before routine use

Systematic Review of BPC-157 (2025)

Key findings:

  • consistent animal study benefits
  • insufficient human clinical data

Mechanisms of BPC-157 (2026)

Key findings:

  • angiogenesis and tissue repair pathways
  • promising biology, limited clinical validation
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Sports Massage Therapy in Calgary: Improve Recovery, Flexibility & Performance

Whether you’re chasing a new personal best or simply want to stay active and better manage pain, Group23 Sports Medicine offers Sports Massage Therapy designed to help you move better, recover faster and train smarter.

Why Choose Sports Massage Therapy in Calgary?

Not all massages are created equal. Unlike a typical spa massage, our Registered Massage Therapists (RMTs) focus on the specific needs of athletes and active individuals. They understand how training, impact, and repetitive movements affect muscles, joints, and connective tissue.

By working closely with our physiotherapy and orthopaedic teams, your RMT ensures each session aligns with your overall health goals, whether it’s improving mobility, speeding up recovery, or preventing injuries.

Tailored Massage Techniques for Every Body

Every body and every sport is different. That’s why Group23 Sports Medicine offers a variety of targeted massage therapies in Calgary, customized to your needs:

  • Sport-specific massage to enhance performance and recovery
  • Deep tissue therapy to release stubborn tension and overworked muscles
  • Rehabilitation massage integrated into your recovery plan
  • Pre- and post-surgical care to support healing and restore mobility
  • Fascial release for improved flexibility and joint function
  • Chronic pain management for long-term relief

With this range of techniques, our team ensures that your body gets the care it needs to stay active, pain-free, and performing at its best.

What to Expect During Your Session

Booking a session at Group23 Sports Medicine is simple — no referral is needed. Your appointment begins with a personalized assessment, where your RMT evaluates tightness, pain points, and movement patterns.

From there, the therapist applies targeted techniques, adjusting pressure and method based on your feedback. Our clinic is multidisciplinary. We can coordinate your care with our on site physiotherapist, sports medicine doctors or orthopaedic specialists to provide a comprehensive and effective recovery plan.

No matter your sport, training level, or lifestyle, our RMTs adapt each treatment to support your goals and keep you moving at your best.

We are open Mondays–Fridays: 7:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. and Saturdays: 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. You do not need a referral to see our massage therapists at Group23 — simply book your session on our website www.group23.ca or call  (403) 284-4040 to book your session.

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Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Explained: How Physiotherapy at Group23 Calgary Can Help You Heal 

Medical illustration of hand anatomy showing carpal tunnel syndrome with median nerve compression

At Group23 Sports Medicine Clinic in Calgary, our physiotherapists frequently treat carpal tunnel syndrome—one of the most common causes of hand and wrist pain. In this post, we’ll explain what carpal tunnel syndrome is, how it affects your daily life, and why early physiotherapy intervention can make a big difference. 

What Is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome? 

The carpal tunnel is a narrow passageway in your wrist that encloses the median nerve, which carries signals from your brain to your hand. Imagine it like a house: 

Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when the median nerve is compressed inside the wrist.
  • Floor: Carpal bones (wrist bones) 
  • Walls: Tendons from your forearm muscles (your finger flexors) 
  • Roof: A strong band of tissue covering the tunnel 
  • Garden hose: The median nerve running through the center 

When the median nerve gets pinched or compressed inside this tunnel, it disrupts communication between your brain and hand—leading to symptoms like numbness, tingling, and weakness. 

Symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome 

The median nerve affects the thumb, index finger, middle finger, and sometimes half of the ring finger. Common symptoms include: 

  • Numbness or tingling in the fingers 
  • Loss of pinch grasp strength 
  • Difficulty performing everyday tasks (dropping things) 

These symptoms often worsen at night, as sleeping positions can bend your wrists and increase pressure on the nerve. 

How Physiotherapy Can Help 

One of the first steps in managing carpal tunnel syndrome is nighttime bracing. At Group23 Calgary, we often recommend the Motion Manager or Wrist Lacer brace, which: 

ergonomic-motion-manager-brace-for-wrist-protection.jpg
  • Wraps comfortably around the wrist to prevent excessive flexion 
  • Keeps the median nerve protected while you sleep 
  • Holds the wrist joint in its most open / relaxed position 
  • Fits comfortably—like a good pair of shoes, it shouldn’t be too tight or too loose 

Beyond bracing, our certified hand therapists may use: 

  • Manual therapy to relieve pressure (working on surrounding joints and muscles) 
  • Nerve gliding exercises to improve mobility of the nerve along it’s path 
  • Ergonomic coaching to reduce strain during daily activities 
  • Home Exercise program to regain any lost mobility and strength and optimize movement patterns  

These treatments aim to restore function, reduce pain, and prevent symptoms from worsening or returning. 

Don’t Wait to Treat Carpal Tunnel 

Many people delay seeking help, hoping symptoms will resolve on their own. But early intervention can prevent long-term nerve damage and potential surgery, and significantly improve your quality of life. 

If you’re experiencing hand or wrist pain, tingling, or weakness, book a consultation with our Group23 Hand and Wrist Physiotherapy team today. Our expert therapists are here to help you regain strength and comfort in your hands. 

???? Call us at (403) 284-4040 or visit https://group23.com to book your appointment. 

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Hand and Wrist Pain Relief in Calgary – Visit Group23’s Specialized Therapy Clinic Today

Group23 is Calgary’s premier sports medicine clinic located at the Markin MacPhail Centre at WinSport. We offer a range of services including sports medicine, massage therapy, and physiotherapy. One of our specialized physiotherapy programs is our Hand and Wrist clinic that offers personalized care to all Calgarians.

What is the Hand Therapy Clinic at Group23?

At the Hand and Wrist Therapy Clinic, we help you recover from hand and wrist injuries, ease your pain, and return you to your favourite sports or hobbies.  Our team includes highly trained physiotherapists who focus on getting you back to doing the things you love—whether that’s work, sports, or everyday activities. We use a patient-centric approach to care, and we’ll guide you every step of the way.

Why Choose Group23?

At Group23, we’re incredibly proud to have one of Alberta’s first physiotherapists with a Certified Hand Therapist (CHT) designation.  Stacey has since trained and mentored three other experienced physiotherapists at Group23 who have a special interest in this area. With only a handful of CHTs in private clinics across the province, you’ll be in the expert hands of a team that has advanced training and experience in treating hand and wrist conditions.

Conditions We Can Help You With

We’re here to help you with a variety of hand and wrist issues, including:

  • Finger injuries (like sprains, dislocations, or mallet finger)
  • Wrist sprains and ligament injuries (like TFCC or scapholunate sprains)
  • Trigger finger or trigger thumb
  • Tendonitis (such as de Quervain’s)
  • Hand, thumb, and wrist arthritis
  • Fractures in the hand, wrist, or forearm  **
  • Nerve issues (like carpal tunnel)
  • Pain or strain from repetitive use
Do You Need a Referral for the Hand and Wrist Clinic?

You do not need a referral to see one of our physiotherapists. If you’re struggling with hand or wrist pain, let us help you feel better. Please note, we are a private clinic, and we do not have AHS funding for post fracture or post-op injuries.

Contact us today to book an appointment and take the first step toward recovery. To learn more, visit group23.ca/aasic or call (403) 284-4040.  

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Should We Be Using Ozempic to Help Manage Weight in Osteoarthritis of Weight-Bearing Joints? 

At Group23, we often hear a familiar and deeply understandable concern from our patients: 

“I know I need to exercise as part of my comprehensive management strategy for my knee or hip osteoarthritis, but it’s so hard to lose weight when movement itself causes pain and inflammation. Would it be OK if I took Ozempic to help with my weight?” 

This question is not only valid—it’s important. Osteoarthritis (OA) in weight-bearing joints like the knees, hips, and ankles is significantly influenced by excess body weight. Every pound lost translates into several pounds less pressure across the joint with each step. So yes, weight loss is powerful medicine for OA—but achieving it, especially when pain limits activity, is an uphill climb for many. 

First: The Foundation Matters 

At Group23, we emphasize a strong foundation in aggressive, non-operative treatment before considering more advanced or medical interventions like GLP-1 receptor agonists (e.g., Ozempic, Wegovy). Our comprehensive conservative treatment strategies include: 

  • Education: Understanding osteoarthritis and its drivers empowers better choices. See link for more information on understanding osteoarthritis HERE.
  • Regular low-impact exercise: Tailored activity to improve joint function and reduce inflammation (yes, even inflamed joints can benefit from the right kind of movement). 
  • Anti-inflammatory diet: Minimizing processed foods and emphasizing whole, plant-forward nutrition. See link for information on anti-inflammatory diet and meal ideas HERE.
  • Judicious NSAID use: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (Advil/Ibuprofen, Aleve/Naproxen, Voltaren/Diclofenac, Celebrex etc) when used appropriately, can support function—but they’re not the long-term answer. 
  • Bracing and unloading strategies: Offload the affected joint to improve movement tolerance.
  • Physiotherapy: Not just exercise—manual therapy, movement retraining, and progressive strength building under supervision of a G23 Physiotherapist with specialized knowledge in OA rehabilitation. 
  • Injection therapies: PRP (Platelet Rich Plasma), hyaluronic acid, and cortisone can help reduce inflammation and pain enough to allow patients to move again. 

These are all evidence-based tools that work in synergy. But we acknowledge the reality: if your pain prevents you from moving, weight loss becomes incredibly hard—and yet, without weight loss, OA continues to progress. 

Where Does Ozempic Fit In? 

GLP-1 medications like Ozempic were developed for diabetes but are now increasingly used for weight management. They work by reducing appetite and improving insulin sensitivity, often resulting in significant weight loss. 

Emerging evidence suggests that these medications may also have an indirect benefit on OA progression—not by modifying the joint disease directly, but by reducing the mechanical and inflammatory burden on the joint through weight loss. However, there are some caveats: 

  • Rapid weight loss can result in loss of lean mass unless counteracted with appropriate exercise and protein intake. 
  • Some reports suggest potential impacts on bone density—particularly in older adults or those already at risk of osteoporosis. 
  • The long-term effects on joint tissue specifically have not been fully studied yet. 

So, should we use Ozempic as part of OA management? The short answer: sometimes, and with the right intention. 

The Most Important Factor: Your Goal 

At Group23, we don’t believe in prescribing treatments just because they’re available. Everything starts with your “RiseAbove Goal”—a clear, SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound) goal that reflects what you want to achieve. Whether it’s: 

  • “I want to be able to walk 30 minutes daily without stopping”
  • “I want to return to hiking with my family this summer” 
  • “I want to delay knee surgery for at least 3 years” 

This goal becomes the benchmark for evaluating whether a treatment is helping—not whether the pain score is lower, or the x-ray looks better, but whether you’re closer to the life you want to live. 

Ozempic, in this light, isn’t a shortcut or magic bullet. It’s a potential tool, used in service of your goal, not instead of all the other conservative care strategies that build long-term success. 

A Reasonable Approach to Weight Loss

If you’re struggling to lose weight because movement is painful, and you’ve already made efforts to optimize diet, exercise, and other treatments, then a conversation about GLP-1 medications is reasonable. This medication might be the bridge that reduces load enough to get you moving again—to make that daily walk possible, to help you say yes to your goals. 

But it should be: 

  • Part of a multidisciplinary plan 
  • Closely monitored 
  • Focused on sustainable change, not just numbers on a scale 
  • Used alongside a program that preserves muscle, supports bone health, and keeps you moving 

In Summary 

  • Weight loss is essential in managing OA of weight-bearing joints—but it’s often very difficult, especially when movement hurts. 
  • Ozempic may be a helpful tool for some patients—but only after exhausting conservative, non-pharmacologic strategies. 
  • Any decision to start this medication should be made with your RiseAbove Goal in mind, not dictated by a provider. 
  • The role of Ozempic is not to replace exercise and diet—but to support and enable those strategies when barriers like pain make them difficult to follow. 

If your OA treatment plan isn’t aligned with your goals, it’s time to rethink the plan. 

Let’s work together to build a strategy that helps you RiseAbove. Learn more

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Dr. Manning and Lessons from the Beijing Olympics

I’m writing to you from the Olympic Village, Beijing, where I am the Team Physician for the Men’s Olympic Hockey Team. It is an honour and a privilege, and something of a surreal experience. But nonetheless with lessons that can be applied to each of our #RiseAbove health journeys towards healthy movement and wellness…

What Competing at the Olympics Really Means to Most Athletes

For most athletes, competing in an Olympic Games represents the pinnacle of their sporting careers. It is the culmination of years of training, competitions and sacrifice.  Working the 2018 Olympics as Team Doctor with our Men’s National Hockey team was my first glimpse at the incredible atmosphere and spirit of competition that exists at the games.  Compared to IIHF World Championships or NHL season and playoffs, Olympic Hockey is different in that the hockey team is just one part of a bigger Team Canada, made of athletes from every winter sport across our country.  

Within an Olympic Games, the practice of sports medicine is simplified in a sense because every member of the team has one goal in mind: win the gold medal.  Every aspect of an athlete’s physical and mental health is therefore optimized and every treatment decision made with the ultimate goal in mind.

What Sets Group23 Apart in Sports Medicine Care

At Group23, we strive to practice Sports Medicine differently – and your personal goal is what drives our treatment plan.  To develop our unique concept of care, we drew on the wealth of experience within our physician and physiotherapy group which is comprised of practitioners that have worked at the highest levels of sport such as the NHL, CFL, USports, Alpine Canada, World Championships, and Olympics Games.  

This concept of care stresses the critical importance of having G23 patients set a goal (what we call a #RiseAbove Goal) in the same way that an athlete sets a goal of winning an Olympic gold medal.

What Rise Above Really Means — And Why It Matters

#RiseAbove goals are SMART goals, that is they are Specific (win a gold medal in Men’s Ice Hockey), Measurable (we win or we don’t), Actionable (team is capable to performing at elite level), Realistic (yes, we qualified for the Olympics and have a team with the talent to win a gold medal), Time-bound (Gold medal game is February 20, 2022).  

Now most of us presenting with an injury or chronic musculoskeletal complaint aren’t trying to win Olympic medals, but I would argue that ANY goal set by a G23 patient should be treated as though it’s means everything to them, that in a sense, it is their equivalent of a “gold medal.”  It might be something as simple as, “I want to be able to go for 20-minute walk 3 days a week by July 1, 2022.” But going from where they are currently, to achieving that goal can be as challenging as winning a medal.  

So how does a SMART #RiseAbove Goal help a Group23 patient?  

  1. It sets an objective benchmark for what “success” looks like when it comes to evaluating the results of any treatment plan.
  2. It ensures that every decision made by your treating sports medicine physician or physiotherapist reflects YOUR priorities not theirs.

    Group23’s concept of care is hard at work here in Beijing and the #RiseAbove Goal for this Olympics is to return to Calgary with a Gold Medal!  Start your #RiseAbove Journey at Group23 today.  Go Canada Go! 

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Do I Need a Knee Brace? When and Why You Might Need One for Pain Relief and Stability

Is a Knee Brace Right for Me? When should I use a knee brace for pain relief and stability? 

Most people wonder when to use a knee brace for pain relient and stability. There are many situations when a knee brace can benefit patients. The goals can differ from decreasing pain, improving alignment and/or improving performance.

Common Conditions Treated with Knee Braces:

  • Osteoarthritis

  • Ligament instability

  • Patellofemoral instability

What is the difference between a knee brace I can buy online and a custom knee brace from a Certified Orthotist?

A Certified Orthotist understands and can explain the physics and biomechanics of the knee brace options. They will pick the correct orthosis for you based on your needs and activities. Not only will you get a customized knee brace, but one that is fitted by a trained orthotist has the potential to qualify for funding opportunities.

Also, a Certified Orthotist has the necessary skills to modify and adjust the brace to fit you if changes are needed; for example, if your leg changes shape or size. And, a Certified Orthotist has access to warranties with custom braces.

Is there funding for knee braces?

Access to funding can be determined once the Certified Orthotist has completed an assessment. Please investigate your personal health benefits prior to your assessment. If your personal health benefits do not pay the full cost of the knee orthosis, you may be eligible for government funding if you meet the criteria (identified by the Alberta Aids to Daily Living Program).

What is the process for booking an appointment at Group23?

Group 23 Sports Medicine makes it easy to book an appointment with a Certified Orthotist. Before booking, please have a prescription (no older than three months) and an imaging report (such as an X-ray) ready. You can call the main booking line 403-284-4040 or book online.

Learn more about our services at Group23.

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David’s Patient Health Journey: PRP Injections

Ultrasound-guided platelet-rich plasma injection of the knee

My injury occurred in February 2021.  I weight train 3 days a week with a trainer and I was doing dumbbell chest presses.

My sequence was: 35 pounds – 40 pounds – 45 pounds, all of which I had done several times before. But while doing the 40 pound reps there was an unpleasant ‘popping’ sound and I dangerously lost control of the weights.

Rotator Cuff Injury Diagnosis and Imaging Results

I contacted a physiotherapist who arranged for an x-ray and ultrasound that afternoon (always have your injuries seen to as quickly as possible!). At my follow up appointment later that week, we reviewed the results and was advised I had an 11 millimetre tear in my rotator cuff. No wonder I had so much pain and difficulty moving my arm!

Thankfully, the physiotherapist recommended Group 23 Sports Medicine and made the appointment for me with Dr. Auld (a referral from a physiotherapist, chiropractor or physician is required to see any sport medicine physician). After examining my shoulder Dr. Auld made some recommendations and took the time to carefully review the possible benefits and overall process of Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) injections, which was his principal treatment suggestion.

PRP Injection Treatment for Rotator Cuff Tear

My first injection was in August, and I saw Dr. Manning who again explained the process for the injection and the possible benefits, which I really appreciated. The injection process itself was quite interesting to watch on the screen (and is a nice distraction if you’re a bit uncomfortable with needles!).

My second injection was scheduled for September and by the night of the second injection my pain level had dropped significantly and the arthritis in my shoulder stopped hurting!  I have had significant progress in movement and little or no pain since the second injection.

Recovery After PRP Therapy for Shoulder Injury

My overall experience with the doctors and staff of Group 23 Sports Medicine was fantastic. From beginning to end, they carefully guided me through the various options, and I really appreciated the follow-up phone calls after the injections to ensure there were no problems. My final review with Dr. Auld in October was excellent. I was able to happily tell him the PRP injections worked, and I was very pleased with the results.  Without the injections, I would not be where I am now, and I never expected to make a full recovery due to the severity of the tear. However, I’m now confident I will soon be back to my original strength, range of motion and most importantly, pain free!

Here at Group23 Sports Medicine, we are so excited by David’s, and many others, successful Patient Health Journeys. If you have a recent or lingering injury, pain or other physical aliment – we urge you to seek treatment! We’d love to help you to #riseabove on your path back to full health.

 

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Do I need an xray for my sprained ankle?

Common Ankle Sprains: Symptoms, When to See a Doctor & Treatment Options

Ankle sprains are one of the most common musculoskeletal injuries in people of all ages.

There are 3 regions of the ankle that can be sprained. By far the most common type of ankle sprain is the lateral ankle or inversion sprain. This comprises over 90% of all ankle sprains. The other 10% of ankle sprains are made up medial or eversion sprains and then there are high ankle sprains.

Many people who experience an ankle sprain do not seek medical attention.

When to Seek Medical Attention for an Ankle Sprain

Many ankle sprains can be self-managed if the pain, the instability, and the swelling are not too bad. However, if there is an inability to weight-bear comfortably more than 4 or 5 steps, then the person should likely access medical care. If there is marked swelling and associated instability, then there is likely good reason to be assessed by a medical professional.

Do You Need an X-Ray for an Ankle Injury?

Most ankle injuries involve only the ligaments which cannot be assessed by x-ray. This is the reason why many ankle sprains do not need imaging. If a fracture is suspected, then an x-ray will likely be ordered. Physicians use a guideline call the “Ottawa Ankle Rules” to determine if an x-ray is needed. This is a system to decide if pain, the region of tenderness and inability to weight-bear may suggest a fracture. These rules identify patients with ankle fractures more than 95% of the time. It also helps reduce the unnecessary x-ray radiation for the patient, and expense to the system.

Ottawa Ankle Rules Checklist:

The Ottawa ankle rules include:

  1. Inability to weight-bear more than a few steps
  2. Lateral ankle bone point tenderness to pressure on the lower 6 cm of the back part of the tibia or the fibula
  3. Tenderness on the tip of the tibia or the fibula
  4. Tenderness on the base of the fifth metatarsal or tenderness on the navicular bone on the inside of the ankle

    If you’ve recently sprained your ankle, you can self-refer to a Group23 Sports Medicine Physician using our Accelerated Access Sport Injury Clinic(AASIC).
    If you’ve recently sprained your ankle, click here to learn more.

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Why #RiseAbove Goal Setting Matters for Recovery and Results at Group23

Set Your #RiseAbove SMART Goals for Injury Recovery Success

Setting your #RiseAbove goals is the beginning of your treatment journey. Having a SMART #RiseAbove Goal is an important part of tracking your recovery process and motivating you for long-term success!

Whether you’re recovering from a sports injury, surgery, or managing a chronic condition, SMART goals allow you and your care team to track your progress and optimize your rehabilitation.

What is a SMART Goal in Sports Medicine?

A SMART goal is Specific, Measurable, Actionable, Realistic, and Time-Bound.

    1. A Specific goal is clear and well defined. When setting your #RiseAbove Goal, consider the individual details of that goal. Try to paint a picture of what you want to accomplish.
    2. A Measurable goal will allow you to track your progress.  For example, instead of saying, “I want to run”, specify how far you want to run and how many days a week you want to run. This will allow you to clearly track the progress that you are making. Your goal could be measured with dates, times, amounts, or distances, or it could be a specific event that you are working towards such as a race.
    3. Actionable: An actionable goal is something that you are capable of taking the actions to achieve. You should consider whether you have the resources to achieve your goal or what resources you might need.
      For example, if your goal is to be able to ride a bike for 20km five times a week BUT you do not have a bike, that goal would not be actionable. There are two solutions to turn this goal into a SMART goal, either you go buy a bike, or you change your goal to something that you already have the resources to accomplish.
    4. Realistic: A realistic goal will be possible for you to achieve. When setting your #RiseAbove Goal, think about whether the goal is possible for you to accomplish and whether you are willing to put in the effort needed to achieve it.  If you setan unrealistic goal, you will not feel very positive about your rehabilitation and you will be less motivated to do things that will lead to your success.
    5. Time-Bound goal means that you have a deadline for when you want to accomplish this goal. This is important because wanting to achieve something in 2 months compared to wanting to achieve something in 2 years is a very different timeline. Having a time-bound goal will help you and your #RiseAbove team decide how aggressive your treatment should be.

Why SMART Goals Matter in Your Rehab Plan

Setting SMART goals gives your rehab team at Group23 a roadmap to support your recovery. These goals inform the intensity of your physiotherapy sessions, guide your exercise programming, and create shared accountability.

An important question to consider when setting your #RiseAbove goals is ‘Why is accomplishing this goal important to me?’ Setting a goal that is personal to you will motivate you to be an active participant in your #RiseAbove journey. It will also coordinate team actions between your Sports Medicine Physician and Physiotherapist to create a custom plan to help you achieve your goal(s)!

Other Important Factors to Note that Might Affect Your Rehabilitation Goals

It is also important to consider the Bio-Psychosocial-Spiritual approach and how all of these elements relate to your goal and treatment. When taking these factors into account, it is highly unlikely that you will be able to devote 100% of your time to your #RiseAbove journey and that is okay. However, it is important to take these elements into consideration when you are setting your goal(s) because they will help you understand whether your goal meets all the elements of being a SMART goal.

If you are ready to set your #RiseAbove goals and get back to movement, you can self-refer to the Accelerated Access Sports Injury Clinic (AASIC) or call: (403) 284-4040 to book an appointment.

Locations

Winsport
Chinook
Shea Quilichini

Physiotherapist
BSc, MScPT, CGIMS

Born and raised in Calgary, Shea’s interest in physiotherapy began after completing his undergraduate degree in Kinesiology at the University of Calgary. After working for several years as a kinesiologist, he went on to earn his Master’s in Physiotherapy from McMaster University.
 
Since graduating, Shea has gained clinical experience in sport medicine and orthopaedic settings, including the McMaster Sport Medicine Clinic, the University of Calgary, and a specialized hip and hockey clinic in Oakville. He has completed his Certificate in Gunn Intramuscular Stimulation (GunnIMS) through the University of British Columbia and his Intermediate Diploma in Manual and Manipulative Therapy through the Orthopaedic Division of the Canadian Physiotherapy Association. Shea is registered with the College of Physical Therapists of Alberta and is on both the spinal manipulation and dry needling rosters.
 
Shea treats a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions, with a special focus on low back, hip, knee, neck and nerve pain.  His approach combines hands-on therapy, targeted exercise, and practical education to help patients recover and build lasting resilience. Each treatment plan is individualized, whether the goal is managing a new injury or working through persistent pain.  As a musician himself, Shea also enjoys working with musicians, as well as recreational and competitive athletes, helping them return to their highest level of function with confidence.
 
Outside the clinic, Shea enjoys exploring the Rockies and spending time in the backcountry, staying active year-round. He values time with friends and family,  trying new restaurants around the city, and almost always has a creative project underway – feel free to ask him what he’s building next!
Claire Froese

Physiotherapist
MScPT

Claire graduated with a Masters of Science in Physical Therapy from the University of Alberta in Edmonton in 2020. 

 

Much of Claire’s passion for, and interest in, the field of physiotherapy and rehabilitation came from her own personal journey as an athlete in sport. She played soccer at a high level throughout her junior high and high school years and then went on to play CIS university level soccer as well. During those years she was inspired by the difference that a number of physiotherapists and athletic therapists made in her own life, both personally and from a rehabilitation perspective, and this encouraged her to ultimately pursue her own career in Physiotherapy.  

 

Claire is passionate about partnering with and motivating people to reach their highest potential, regardless of age, current activity level or ability. She wants to empower you to move better and feel stronger in your every day life and help you achieve your goals; whether that be returning to play as an athlete or someone looking to get back to their activities of daily living. Claire likes to incorporate education, manual therapy techniques and strength and conditioning principles into her practice in order to treat a variety of different injuries and conditions. 

 

In her free time, Claire can be found spending time with her family and friends. She loves the outdoors and specifically enjoys road biking, running and walking her dog.