Sports Rehabilitation

Sports rehabilitation is a multi-faceted approach to the evaluation, treatment, and prevention of injuries in order to achieve an optimal level of sports specific, occupational, and functional fitness, regardless of ability and age. Also, sports therapists often prescribe exercises for reconditioning and strength. This article covers the fundamental principles of sports rehabilitation.

In general, sports rehabilitation has two primary objectives:

• To help patients regain their physical fitness and physical stamina before the injury; and
• To strengthen the patient by developing sports specific programs in terms of endurance, power, and strength that will allow the injured person to play sports again.

After an injury, rehabilitation exercises typically begin as soon as possible with neuromuscular activation (to stimulate the muscles) to prevent atrophy (muscle loss) and speed healing. For each rehabilitation phase in sports therapy, an exercise program is created that progresses dynamically based on the individual’s adaptation and progress.

To achieve this, we follow 7 sports rehabilitation principles to ensure optimal recovery and return to sports activity of athletes and sportspersons:

• Continuous goal setting
• Performance analysis
• Combination of sports science and physiotherapy
• Customized sports rehabilitation program
• Variation of the program according to the progress of the patient
• Reanalysis before returning to sport
• Re-injury prevention

Each of these principles plays a special role when it comes to bringing the injured person to their original level of performance. Together, they can complete the entire sports rehabilitation process.

Who is Sports Rehabilitation for?

Our sports therapists treat a wide range of orthopedic problems, including:

• Sports or exercise-related injuries
• Neck and back pain
• Ankle and foot problems/ injuries
• Hip and knee problems/ injuries
• Elbow and shoulder problems/ injuries
• Work-related injuries
• Arthritis
• Athletic trainers and sports physical therapy offer expertise to help you resume your exercise regimen prior to the injury

How Long Does Sports Rehabilitation Last?

The duration of rehabilitation depends on the needs and progress of each individual. There may be different stages of rehabilitation that vary. Factors that affect the length of rehabilitation include:

• Extent and nature of the injury
• Cause of injury
• Type and degree of resulting impairment
• Wound healing and pain therapy
• Progress towards functional goals

If you or someone you know needs a comprehensive and personalized sports rehabilitation program, contact us today at Performance Chiropractic + Physiotherapy.