Sports injuries can be very common to athletes, from minor sprains to major surgeries. It’s essential to prioritize rehabilitation to get back in the game as soon as possible. Recovering from a sports injury can take time, but it doesn’t mean you have to sit out forever. In this blog, we’ll discuss types of sports rehab and signs to help athletes identify if they need it.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy is the primary form of rehabilitation prescribed by sports physicians. This type of therapy includes activities and exercises that help restore strength and flexibility to the injured body part. Physical therapy can range from basic, strength-building exercises to advanced balance and coordination training. This rehab type aims to restore mobility and function to the affected body part.
Massage Therapy
Massage therapy is a form of sports rehab that deals with soft-tissue injuries, such as sprains and strains. This therapy involves manipulating the deep and superficial tissues of the body using specialized techniques to encourage the healing process and decrease swelling. Massage therapy can also help improve flexibility and reduce muscle tension.
Aquatic Therapy
Aquatic therapy or hydrotherapy is another form of sports rehab. This therapy involves using water as a medium to perform exercises that promote joint mobilization and improve the range of motion. It’s a low-impact therapy that helps reduce inflammation and relieves pain. Athletes who might have difficulty bearing weight on their injured body parts could benefit from aquatic therapy.
Bracing and Taping
Bracing and taping are types of therapies that help stabilize the injured area. Bracing involves the use of supportive devices to reduce the load on an injured joint or body part. Taping and bandaging are used to provide external support to the soft tissues that surround the injured area. These therapies are usually part of sports rehab and can provide ongoing support even after the recovery period.
Signs You Need Sports Rehab
Sports injuries can vary in type and severity, and not all injuries require rehab. Here are some signs that athletes should look out for before deciding to undergo sports rehab. If you feel a constant or sharp pain in the injured area, struggle with reduced mobility, or experience swelling and stiffness, you should consider sports rehab. Persistent pain while performing basic activities or lack of improvement in healing after a few days is another sign that you might need sports rehab.
Contact a professional for more information about sports rehab.
