What is a Corky and How should you Manage it?
Corkys, otherwise known as corked thighs or quadriceps muscle contusions, are the second most common sporting injury behind muscle strains.They cause bruising and bleeding within and surrounding the muscle as a result of blunt trauma, often crushing the muscle against underlying bone during impact. Most commonly occurring in the quadriceps muscle, it can also impact the hamstring or calf muscles.
Symptoms associated with a corky are pain, visible bruising and swelling, reduced strength and reduced movement. Corkys can be graded based on severity. You can often get back to playing within 1-2 weeks for a low grade corky, or conversely need to spend extended time rehabilitating for a more severe corky. It can often take 4-6 weeks after you return to play for the muscle to recover to full strength.
If you suffer from a corky, immediately apply the POLICE principle (Protect, Optimal Loading, Ice, Compression, Elevation) before seeking further professional medical advice. Commencing physiotherapy as soon as possible can help with the recovery process. Your physiotherapist will conduct a thorough assessment of your injury and develop a management plan together with you to get you back to playing quickly!