Therapist Types
Sports Therapist
A Sports Therapist is also a type of healthcare professional that specialises in preventing, diagnosing, treating, and rehabilitating injuries related to physical activity and sport. They are often considered similar to what a Physiotherapist may offer however a Sports Therapist operates more exclusively with Sporting conditions and sports performers whereas a Physiotherapist tends to deal with a broader range of conditions and the wider population. A key focus of a Sports Therapist is to facilitate someone’s return to sports activities, optimise their physical condition, and prevent future injuries. Similar to a Massage Therapist and Physiotherapists; a Sports Therapist will also use manual techniques when treating a sports performer and are able to perform an assessment and provide a particular diagnosis. These provisions however operate mostly within the realm of conditions related to sport, albeit there may be some carry over into more general conditions.
In addition to operating within a clinic, it is common for Sports Therapists to offer on site support at sporting events to athletes. Many will also have an understanding of scientific principles underpinning sport and exercise performance. This contextual knowledge is important when a Sports Therapist is mapping a rehabilitation program for an athlete and may include the following:
Biomechanics:
This can be thought of as the way in which an athlete moves, and takes into consideration musculoskeletal and neurological function. Sports Therapists must take into consideration an individuals Biomechanics in relation to the sport when performing a diagnosis or rehabilitation plan.
Anatomy and Physiology:
Constitutes the bodies structure and function. Sports Therapists apply known anatomical and physiological principles such as muscle adaptation to tailor and optimise an athletes rehabilitation, specific to their given sport.
As with any approach, if you are not sure on what is the best fit for you, you should discuss your requirements with your Therapist prior to an appointment.
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