The term “sports injury” is all-encompassing, including any type of injury that occurs while performing the athletic activity. It can happen just the same by lifting heavy weights at the gym or running in ill-fitted shoes, as it can by swinging a bat too aggressively or rolling your ankle on the soccer field. One of the most important aspects of sports injury rehabilitation is treating it as soon as possible. Your treatment plan and duration of recovery will vary depending on how severe the injury is, your health history, and whether the injury requires surgical intervention.

What does a sports physical therapist do?

A sports physical therapist helps athletes recover from injuries, prevent future ones, and improve performance. They work to restore mobility, reduce pain, and help athletes regain maximum function, often focusing on returning athletes to their sport. This involves using various techniques like exercises, stretches, and modalities to address pain, improve function, and enhance athletic capabilities. 

Most common injuries:

• acute sports injuries

• sprains and strains (such as ankle sprain)

• shin splints

• surgeries, like ACL repair

• rotator cuff injuries

• knee injuries and meniscus tears

• tendinitis and bursitis (overuse injuries) such as biceps tendinitis, wrist tendinitis, and pes anserine bursitis

• Iliotibial band syndrome (often called runner's knee)

Our Approach:

• Injury Assessment and Treatment: We will assess the severity of injuries and identify limitations in range of motion, coordination, and balance. Then create individualized rehabilitation programs tailored to each athlete's specific needs and goals, considering the unique demands of their sport. We will employ a range of techniques including manual therapy, exercise prescription, modalities like heat or cold therapy, and electrical stimulation to help reduce pain, improve function, and promote healing. 

• Injury Prevention: We will assess athletes to identify potential risk factors for injury and develop strategies to minimize those risks. Then provide education on proper techniques, warm-up routines, and other preventative measures. We focus on strengthening muscles and improving flexibility to help athletes perform at their best and reduce the risk of injury. 

• Performance Enhancement: We will analyze an athlete's sport-specific movements to identify areas for improvement and develop training programs to refine movement patterns. Then work to enhance an athlete's strength, power, endurance, and flexibility to improve overall performance and athletic capabilities. We help athletes improve their balance and coordination, which is crucial for athletic performance and injury prevention. 

• Collaboration with Other Professionals: We will collaborate with physicians, athletic trainers, and other healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive care for athletes. As well as communicate with coaches to understand the athlete's needs and goals and to help design training programs that align with the team's objectives.

Young Athletes