Why You Need Physical Therapy After a Sports Injury

 

 

Pain Relief

The first and most obvious benefit of physical therapy after injury is pain relief. Your physical therapist will come up with a list of strengthening and stretching exercises for you to do during your session, and at home. 

Some exercises can provide immediate pain relief. Others may strengthen specific muscles to support and relieve pain in another area. For example, if you have back pain, your physical therapist may work with you to strengthen your core.

 

 

Quicker Recovery Time

Having a quicker recovery time is one of the main reasons athletes come see us at MPOWER Physical Therapy. If you play sports or watch sports, you know that injury can affect your whole season. Physical therapy offers a way for athletes to focus on their recovery through various strengthening and stretching exercises.

What you put into your physical therapy is what you will get out of it. Going to every PT session and doing your at home exercises consistently will ensure the best and quickest results. Of course it is important to always listen to your physical therapist’s advice, pushing yourself to hard can result in further damage.  

 

 

Prevent Future Injuries

When people think of physical therapy, most people think of recovery. Physical therapy can help your body heal from a bad injury, but it can also help to prevent future injuries.

You can continue doing the exercises you learn in physical therapy anytime you start to feel pain in your previously injured area. In addition, your physical therapist may give you preventative tips like avoiding certain activities, eating foods that may help with inflammation, and more!

 

 

Access to Advanced Technology

Rest, ice, and stretching can certainly help with the pain from your injury, but a physical therapist offers knowledge and experience combined with access to advanced technology.

Blood Flow Restriction Training

Blood flow restriction training uses a tool that modifies blood flow while the patient is working out. This modification allows the patient to improve muscle strength with minimal to no stress on the muscles.

BFR may not be suitable for every PT patient. It can be extremely beneficial to athletes who are in recovery and in need of strengthening exercises.

Ice Compression System

The ice compression system is used by physical therapists to ensure a quicker recovery after injury. It combines cold therapy and compression to increase blood flow and reduce pain and swelling.

Deep Oscillation Therapy

This non-invasive device moves back and forth over muscle tissue using electrostatic traction. It can help reduce pain and inflammation, activate proteins for healing, and improve tissue quality.

 

 

Peace of Mind

One of the benefits of physical therapy that many people don’t consider is improved mental health and peace of mind. When an athlete is injured, there is a lot of stress and worry that can come to mind, and mental health can affect physical health more than you may think.

A physical therapist can offer support and encouragement but can also provide you with knowledge so that you understand the healing process. Knowing how your body works and how it can heal is key to eliminating anxiety about your health.