Sport Injuries

Sports injuries are common among athletes and active individuals, often requiring targeted rehabilitation to ensure a full recovery. Physiotherapy plays a crucial role in this process.

Common Sports Injuries

Sprains & Strains

Ligament or muscle/tendon overstretching/tears.

Fractures

Bone breaks (e.g., stress fractures from overuse).

Dislocations

Joints forced out of position (e.g., shoulders).

Tendonitis

Inflamed tendons (e.g., Achilles, tennis elbow).

Muscle Contusions

Bruises from direct impact.

ACL Tears

Knee ligament injuries common in pivoting sports.

Rotator Cuff Injuries

Shoulder tendon/ligament damage.

Meniscus Tears

Knee cartilage injuries.

Concussions

Traumatic brain injuries requiring immediate attention.

Goals of Physiotherapy

Pain & Inflammation Management: Use of RICE (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation).

Restore Mobility/Strength: Gradual reintroduction of movement and resistance training.

Improve Flexibility: Stretching to prevent stiffness.

Prevent Re-injury: Addressing imbalances and improving biomechanics.

Enhance Performance: Sport-specific conditioning.

Assessment & Diagnosis

Medical History: Injury mechanism, symptoms, prior issues.

Physical Exam: Range of motion, strength, swelling assessment.

Imaging: X-rays/MRI if structural damage is suspected.

Treatment Modalities

Manual Therapy

Joint mobilization, soft tissue massage.

Electrotherapy

TENS (pain relief) or EMS (muscle activation).

Ultrasound

Promotes tissue healing via sound waves.

Heat/Cold Therapy

Heat for stiffness, ice for acute inflammation.

Exercise Prescription

Tailored stretching/strengthening routines.

Taping/Kinesiology

Supports joints and reduces strain.

Dry Needling

Releases muscle trigger points.

Education

Activity modification and ergonomic advice.

Rehabilitation Phases

Acute Phase (0–72 hours): Focus on reducing pain/swelling (RICE, gentle movements).

Subacute Phase (3 days–6 weeks): Restore mobility/strength (e.g., resistance bands, light weights).

Functional Phase (6+ weeks): Sport-specific drills (e.g., agility ladders, plyometrics).

Prevention Strategies

Warm-Ups: Dynamic stretches (e.g., leg swings).

Strength Training: Focus on core and injury-prone areas.

Flexibility: Yoga or static stretching post-activity.

Proper Technique: Coaching to avoid poor form.

Rest & Recovery: Adequate sleep and rest days.

Protective Gear: Use helmets, braces, or proper footwear.

When to Seek Help

Severe pain/swelling

Inability to bear weight

Joint deformity or numbness

Persistent symptoms despite rest