An Introduction to Sports Medicine Physical Therapy

As its name implies, sports medicine physical therapy deals with prevention and treatment of certain conditions caused by athletic activity. Sports medicine as a whole not only includes licensed physical therapists but also doctors, surgeons, coaches and trainers. Together these professionals help aid recovery and rehabilitation. They may also help the patient prevent future injuries using certain techniques. Preventative medicine can go a long way towards the avoidance of sports-related injuries.

For example, strengthening key parts of the body with certain exercises can prevent injuries due to excessive pitching. The rotational motion of throwing a pitch can cause strains, sprains, dislocations and more if the core of the body is not properly trained. Exercises that focus on the rotation of the body can help, as can lunges and squats. Injuries of this type are common with school age athletes, which is why proper training and preventative measures are so important. Experts recommend limiting the number of pitches thrown, especially for kids. Of course, baseball isn't the only sport in which injuries can occur.

Football, gymnastics, track and field, soccer -- these are just a few other examples of sports where athletic injuries are common. Both males and females are equally at risk for athletic injuries. No matter what sport you play, a sports medicine PT may be able to help you prevent problems or eliminate any issues you are suffering with. Therapists do this using a variety of methods. First, you will need an examination so the therapist will know more about your problem. After that a rehabilitation program will be devised to meet your particular needs.

Sports medicine physical therapy may involve both preventative and therapeutic exercises, applications of ice and heat, hydrotherapy using pools and tubs, manual manipulation of the affected area by the therapist, ultrasound therapy and more. Physical therapists must undergo plenty of education and training before they are able to work in this field. If you are dealing with a sports related problem choosing a therapist who specializes in this area or works at a sports medicine clinic is recommended. Your doctor can give you a referral to the right physical therapist for your problem. With a physician referral (and sometimes without one) the services may be covered under your insurance plan.

You Can Be Me -- A Career in Physical Therapy (APTA)

 

 

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