BLOGS

The term "Sports therapy", described by the Society of Sports Therapists, refers to a key aspect of healthcare which is specifically immersed in the prevention of injury and the rehabilitation of a patient to optimum levels of functional, occupational and sport-specific fitness; regardless of age, ability or activity levels.  

What makes Sports therapy different, and why should you consider it, even if you're not an athlete?

Sports therapy embodies many concepts, tailored to a personalised approach to helping you reach your goals.  

These include:

• Utilise sports and exercise principles to optimise performance, preparation and injury prevention programmes: 

• Provide immediate care for injuries and basic life support in a recreational, training and competitive environment.  

• Assess, treat, and, where appropriate, refer to specialist advice and intervention. 

• Plan and implement appropriate rehabilitation programs. 

• Provide appropriate sport and remedial massage in a sport and exercise context. 

Common misconceptions about Sports Therapy

"It's just like a simple massage"

While sports therapy includes massage techniques, soft tissue therapy incorporates many methodologies such as deep tissue work, trigger point therapy, and myofascial release. These methodologies can help achieve objectives such as: 

• Release of unwanted local muscular tension. 

• Stretching of tight and shortened soft tissues (muscle and fascia). 

• Mobilisation of restricted or painful joints. 

• Relief from pain 

• Promotion of general health and well-being.  

"It's only for athletes"

While sports therapy plays a key role in performance and athletes, it's available for everyday people who want to move well, stay active or live without pain; sports therapy can be designed for anyone.  

Conclusion

Whether you're recovering from an injury, trying to improve your physical performance, or simply want to move pain-free, sports therapy offers a targeted, practical, and personalised approach to helping you reach your goals. 

Daniel Kasprzyk

 

References

The Society of Sports Therapists. (2023). The Society of Sports Therapists. [online] Available at: https://thesst.org/what-is-sports-therapy/.

Ward, K., Di Leva, R., Thain, P.K. and Gardiner, N., 2015. Clinical Interventions in Sports Therapy. In Routledge Handbook of Sports Therapy, Injury Assessment and Rehabilitation (pp. 132-223). Routledge.

Robertson, P., Ward, K. and Di Leva, R., 2015. Professionalism and ethics in sports therapy. In Routledge Handbook of Sports Therapy, Injury Assessment and Rehabilitation (pp. 706-719). Routledge.