The heat's been on the medical team

Sunday 05 July 2015

A team of physiotherapists was stretched to the limit last week dealing with all sorts from sore backs and sore eyes to blisters and black toenails.

The 19 therapists and medical staff working in the Polyclinic based in a tent at the Island Games Village were treating athletes from all over the world and said they had queues like the A&E department.

Lead physio Lisa Mann said: “It’s certainly challenging for all the first aiders and all the doctors and medical staff to provide adequate cover all over the Island. The Donna Annand Melanoma Charity are doing a great job – their suncream is being used in vast quantities and trying to get water to everyone.”

Besides dealing with the usual sprains and strains you'd expect at any sports event, the searing temperatures proved to be an extra hurdle for them and Lisa says they treated a lot of athletes with blisters because their hot feet were sliding around a lot more in their trainers.

She said they hadn't had to treat anyone for sunburn but they have had to help get some athletes into the shade because the heat has taken its toll on them and local businesses had been helping keep up their supply of ice to keep everyone cool.