Expert physiotherapy advice from Shellharbour Health
Copped a corky on the field? If you play footy, rugby, or soccer around Shellharbour, you’ve probably experienced that deep, aching pain in the thigh from a direct knock. Known as a cork or corky, this common sports injury can range from a mild annoyance to something more serious—especially if left untreated.
Here’s everything you need to know about how corks heal, what can go wrong, and when to see a physiotherapist.
A cork is a muscle contusion, typically caused by a direct blow that compresses the muscle against bone. This causes internal bleeding and swelling within the muscle—most often in the quadriceps.
Symptoms include:
- Sudden pain after impact
- Muscle tightness or weakness
- Swelling and bruising
- Reduced ability to bend or straighten the knee
Stages of Healing
1. Acute Phase (0–72 hours)
- What to do: Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation (RICE). Avoid massage, heat, stretching and alcohol.
- Symptoms: Pain, swelling, limited mobility.
2. Subacute Phase (3–7 days)
- Begin gentle movement under guidance. Bruising becomes more visible. Avoid returning to full activity too early.
3. Rehabilitation Phase (1–3+ weeks)
- Structured rehab begins: strength, flexibility, and sport-specific drills.
Recovery Times:
- Mild: 1–2 weeks
- Moderate: 2–4 weeks
- Severe: 4+ weeks
1. Myositis Ossificans
Calcium deposits form in the muscle due to poor early management such as early deep tissue massage, heat, stretching or impacting the injury in the subacute phase. Typically occurs between 2-4 weeks post injury leading to long-term pain and stiffness. This is preventable with early physiotherapy.
2. Hematoma
A deep pocket of blood can form, delaying healing and requiring drainage in rare cases.
3. Persistent Weakness
Without proper rehab, the muscle may not fully recover strength and flexibility, increasing the risk of reinjury.
4. Delayed Return to Sport
Ignoring pain or pushing through training too soon can make a minor injury a long-term issue.
When to See a Physio
Book an appointment at Shellharbour Health Physiotherapy if you:
- Can’t fully bend or straighten your leg
- Have a visible lump or swelling
- Notice increasing pain or stiffness
- Want a safe, structured return to sport
How Our Physios Can Help
At Shellharbour Health, our physiotherapists:
- Assess the severity of the cork
- Provide early-stage treatment (swelling and pain management)
- Guide recovery with a personalised exercise plan
- Prevent complications like myositis ossificans
- Support your return to sport with confidence
Book Today
Don’t let a cork keep you sidelined longer than necessary. Our experienced team can help you recover faster, stronger, and smarter.
Book an appointment online or call us on 02 42954698
