Is a Pre-sport screening beneficial?
Receiving a pre-sport physical therapy screening prior to engaging in a sporting activity will allow you to see any musculoskeletal impairments that need to be addressed and help guide you in sport specific exercises to decrease risk for injury. This is especially important as you prepare for your upcoming season.
What is sports physical therapy?
Sports physical therapy is physical therapy focused on the prevention, evaluation, treatment, and rehabilitation of injuries related to sports and physical activity. It can also help athletes improve strength, mobility, balance, coordination, and sport-specific performance.
What sports injuries can physical therapy treat?
Physical therapists can treat many musculoskeletal injuries affecting athletes, including ankle sprains, knee injuries, muscle strains, tendinitis, shoulder injuries, hip and groin injuries, elbow injuries, back pain, and overuse injuries. Physical therapy can also be part of rehabilitation following orthopedic surgery.
Can physical therapy help prevent sports injuries?
Physical therapy can help identify weaknesses, mobility limitations, and movement issues that may increase an athlete’s risk of injury. Pick PT offers pre-sport screenings and individualized exercise programs designed to help athletes prepare for the physical demands of their sport.
Do I need to be injured to see a sports physical therapist?
No. Sports physical therapy can be useful for injury recovery, but athletes can also seek help with conditioning, strength, mobility, movement quality, and injury prevention. A pre-season screening can help identify areas that may need attention before competition begins.
How long does sports physical therapy take?
The length of sports physical therapy depends on the injury, your goals, your current level of function, and how your body responds to treatment. Some athletes may need only a short period of therapy for a minor problem, while more significant injuries or post-surgical rehabilitation can require a longer program.
When can I return to my sport after an injury?
There is no single timeline that applies to every athlete or injury. Your physical therapist will consider factors such as strength, mobility, balance, movement quality, and your ability to perform sport-specific activities when progressing your rehabilitation. The goal is to help you return to your activity safely rather than simply returning as quickly as possible.
Can sports physical therapy improve athletic performance?
Yes. Sports physical therapy can include conditioning and exercises designed to improve areas such as strength, stability, balance, speed, agility, coordination, and sport-specific movement. Your program can be adjusted to match the demands of your particular sport.
Is sports physical therapy only for high school or college athletes?
No. Athletes of all ages and ability levels can benefit from sports physical therapy. Pick PT works with people who participate in competitive sports as well as recreational activities and fitness programs.
Can I see a physical therapist without a doctor referral?
Idaho is a direct-access state, so many people can begin physical therapy without a physician referral. However, some insurance plans may have requirements for pre-authorization or referrals. Pick PT recommends contacting the office if you are unsure whether your insurance requires a referral.
Where can I receive sports physical therapy from Pick PT?
Pick PT offers sports medicine and physical therapy services at locations throughout Southeast Idaho, including clinics in Idaho Falls, Ammon, Rexburg, Rigby, and Nampa. Contact Pick PT to find the location that works best for you.
