Jockeys' physical therapy clinic opens A new sports injury clinic for jockeys has opened in the Munster area with former rider Keith Hadnett having recently been approved to practice as a physical therapist by Turf Club officials. Two clinics are to open in the Munster area, one in Annacotty, Limerick and another in Limerick Junction, Co Tipperary and Hadnett says “I completed my degree in physical therapy recently and Dr Adrian McGoldrick (Turf Club Medical Officer) then approved me to provide treatment for jockeys through the Irish Jockeys Association (IJA).” He added “I treat all types of clients, young or old, but through my own experiences as a jockey, specialise mainly in sports injuries. “Education is central as most people, including jockeys, don't know what to do in order to better rehabilitate themselves. Following through with rehabilitation is important not only to improve physically but I've seen how certain exercises are beneficial to jockeys, some of which can be done while riding out.” Hadnett, a former Champion Conditional Jockey who won the 2002 Galway Plate on Rockholm Boy, adds “obviously broken bones cannot be prevented in some heavy falls but through education, physical therapy will help to prevent aggravating old injuries and improve core stability and balance; nobody at the time thinks about what comes after retirement but physical therapy is also very useful in that regard.” Hadnett can be contacted on 087 9877611 and, while based in Munster, is also available to travel by appointment. By Thomas Weekes
