Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham's (QEHB) Sport and Exercise Medicine team took their expertise into the community to advise a group of Birmingham athletes about sports injury prevention.

Dr Leon Creaney, consultant in Sport and Exercise Medicine, and Emma Batchelor, Consultant Physiotherapist, gave interactive presentations to the Bournville Harriers running club, which is based at the Rowheath Pavilion in Bournville.

More than 50 members enjoyed Dr Creaney’s presentation which focused on the skills and procedures offered by the Sport and Exercise Medicine service at QEHB and the risk factors for bone stress injuries.

Emma gave an overview of her role as physiotherapist to the Great British hockey team, an update on exercise management for Achilles tendinopathy and helpful training advice, including information about hydration, nutrition and injury prevention.

The presentations were followed by a lively question and answer session.

Steve Cumley, Division D Director of Operations at University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust (UHB) and an active member of Bournville Harriers, attended the evening and said: “Leon and Emma’s presentations showcased the specialist skills on offer at QEHB and demonstrated their experience and knowledge in the field. They gave useful advice on training which will be of great benefit to the athletes present. It was a really enjoyable and informative session.

“The Trust is committed to encouraging active lifestyles and reducing admissions. Leon and Emma’s presentation is one of a number of health promotion initiatives to encourage our local community to keep fit and well.”