Physiotherapy is a go-to solution for injuries of all kinds, but did you know that having a regular physiotherapy regimen can actually help to prevent injuries? Whether you are a keen player of a number of sports, or are training for one specific event, chances are you are over-using certain muscle groups and contributing to stress and strain on your body. Working with your physiotherapist on a regular basis can help to alleviate aches and pains, but can also help you to build up underused muscle groups.
How can a physiotherapist help to prevent injuries?
Your physiotherapist will assess your range of motion, gait, strength and joint health in order to determine the best course of action to keep you flexible and active. This proactive approach can prevent injuries down the line that may put you on the sidelines for weeks or months on end, instead of enjoying the sports you love.
Common Sports Injuries
Muscle tension and strain are a common part of sport, especially at a higher level, but when those aches are not relieved by ice or rest, it’s time to get a professional opinion before your minor pain turns into a major issue. Runners may experience shin splints and tendinitis, while hockey players may develop upper body injuries such as pain in the shoulder or back. Most sports carry an inherent risk for injury and your physiotherapist is trained to spot trouble issues before they get worse. We may recommend a period of rest to prevent further inflammation, but most often, you will be given a routine of physiotherapy and at home strengthening exercises.
At Achieve Health, our physiotherapists have in depth knowledge and experience in treating and diagnosing active teens and adults. We understand the demand that athletes put on themselves both mentally and physically, so we make sure we are always up to date on the latest techniques to address current injuries and prevent future problems.
Addressing Acute Injuries
If you haven’t had preventative physiotherapy and you find yourself dealing with an acute injury, be sure to book an appointment as soon as possible. It’s best to deal with problems as they arise instead of taking a “wait and see” approach. This is because individuals tend to over-compensate for muscle and joint pain, and can actually cause strain to other muscle groups in the process. Visiting your physiotherapist right away can help to speed up healing time and get you back in the game much faster. The length of time before you can return to normal activity will vary depending on the severity of your injury and the type of sport you play.
What will my first visit be like?
Generally speaking, we will have an initial assessment of your injury combined with in office treatment and individual strengthening routines. We often employ other tools such as therapeutic bands, weights, foam rollers and exercise balls to promote healing. Based on your circumstances, we will decide how many sessions to schedule and how frequently you should attend in order to make the most of your treatment.
Complementary Treatments
Whether you are working to maintain your physical well-being with preventative therapy or are addressing an acute injury, your physiotherapist may recommend adding in some complementary treatments to speed recovery and relieve pain. Massage therapy, chiropractic care and acupuncture are all available services that can work very well with physiotherapy in order to promote health and improve results.
If you are an athlete that is looking to stay at the top of their game, give Achieve Health a call for a consultation with one of our physiotherapists. See how physiotherapy can help you improve strength, balance and agility, while also healing strains and preventing further injury.