Stuart Olding is well used to taking his fair share of blows on the rugby pitch.
The versatile Ulster back may be only 24 but he has seen his fair share of treatment tables and physio rooms.
https://www.instagram.com/p/wT6W8quLPu/?taken-by=stuart_olding
Olding was all set to tour with Ireland this summer but he will miss out on the Tests against the United States and Japan after damaging his ankle late last month.
Having been operated on and placed in a protective boot, Olding was only too happy to be told by Ulster physio Gareth Robinson to come in to Kingspan Stadium to have the boot removed.
From front on, Olding looks to be in decent nick. He certainly looks cheerful with his cup of tea.
Keeping his spirits up in physio this morning @stuart_olding @UlsterRugby pic.twitter.com/STbSMEUg4v
— Gareth Robinson (@ggphysio) May 4, 2017
However, the centre’s point-of-view makes for a more dramatic picture.
The wastage of muscle around Olding’s left calf is definitely pronounced. You can also see the surgical insertion marks around his healing ankle.
https://www.instagram.com/p/BUgukJ5hqSI/
It will be another few weeks before Olding can fully dive into his strengthening and rehabbing. One hopes he gets a break away from it all before Ulster’s pre-season commences in late June.
The mind often needs as much of a break as the body.
