When it pinches and hurts, they are there to help: Prof Dr Philipp Mommsen and his colleagues at ASKLEPIOS Klinikum Harburg are the medical team for the WTA 250 women's tennis tournament at Hamburg's Rothenbaum for the first time this year. A role that the head physician for orthopaedics and trauma surgery greatly appreciates, as he reveals in an exclusive interview.
Interview: Janina Darm
Prof. Dr Mommsen, tennis is one of the so-called pivot sports, which are characterised by rapid changes of direction and therefore involve a higher risk of injury. Why is this sport still so popular with many people?
Tennis is a fascinating discipline that combines physical fitness, mental strength and strategic thinking in a unique way - regardless of whether you are active yourself or watching from the stands. What's more, the barrier to trying out the sport yourself is relatively low. A racket, a ball, a net and an opponent - you're ready to go. What's more, the sport can basically be practised for a lifetime. It offers numerous health benefits and promotes endurance and coordination - two factors that have a decisive influence on our vitality. Nevertheless, as mentioned, there is a certain risk of injury: tennis elbow, shoulder problems, knee and ankle injuries are not uncommon. With regard to the pros, however, it can be said: Many play tennis well into old age - and at a top level. So it's no wonder that the sport fascinates and captivates millions of people around the world - including me.
How can tennis injuries be avoided?
Firstly through warm-up and stretching exercises. A warm-up is a must before venturing onto the court. It is also helpful to do regular strengthening and stabilisation exercises off the court to strengthen and stabilise your muscles. Professional athletes spend a lot of time in the gym - amateurs, meanwhile, can easily train at home and do exercises with their own body weight. From planks to wall sits - the possibilities are almost endless. Apart from that, it is of course important to develop a proper stroke technique. Incorrect movements can cause chronic pain in the long term and are often the result of overloading. In this respect, it is worth listening to your tennis coach and adapting your stroke technique if necessary.
You and your colleagues from ASKLEPIOS Klinikum Harburg are taking over medical care at the Rothenbaum for the first time. What does that mean in concrete terms?
Our primary medical responsibility relates to the athletes. No matter whether it's a circulatory weakness, a wasp sting or a swollen ankle: We are there, act swiftly and are always ready for action. Health is our top priority - it is our passion, and we are delighted and proud to be able to support the women's tennis tournament in our role as the city's largest healthcare company and to raise people's awareness of sport, exercise and a healthy lifestyle.
Speaking of which, what is your recipe for staying fit and healthy?
Like most people, I prioritise regular exercise and a diet that is as healthy and balanced as possible. Sufficient sleep, on the other hand, is a rarity in orthopaedics and trauma surgery. (laughs) In my free time, I jog, cycle and occasionally even pick up a tennis racket. I also enjoy cooking - and I favour natural, regional ingredients. As you can see: I don't have a secret recipe for staying fit and energised. (laughs) But if you stick to these basic rules, you are already doing a lot of things right.
So you're also an ace at tennis?
In fact, I've swung the racket a lot, even as a player in a club team at times. But I prefer to leave the centre court to the professionals and devote myself to my passion instead - medical care. Believe me: it's the best thing for everyone. (laughs)
Prof Dr Mommsen, thank you very much for the interview.