The purpose of physical therapy for sport injuries is to reduce pain while promoting maximum movement, flexibility, and strength. Physical therapy can also help someone manage pain and prevent permanent damage and recurring problems. For sports-related injuries, a typical physical therapy program may include any of the following:
• Therapeutic Exercise: Therapeutic exercise is an extremely important part of rehabilitation in that it helps patients to restore strength, range of motion, and balance. This can help patients to avoid not only surgery, but the risk of recurrence. It is important that patients do not attempt to exercise after an injury without the guidance of a physical therapist; to do so could cause further injury.
• Spinal Decompression: Spinal decompression relieves pain by taking the pressure off of compressed nerves. In many cases, spinal decompression is used as an alternative to surgery, particularly in situations involving herniated or bulging discs.
• Low Level Laser Therapy: Also known as cold laser therapy, this technology speeds up the healing process at a cellular level. It aids in the production of collagen (the main protein in connective tissues). It can also assist with reducing pain and inflammation.
Other physical therapy practices offered at our Shrewsbury, Wall, and Lacey rehabilitation facilities include the use of Power Plate vibration technology, ultrasound, and electrotherapy. The Power Plate at our facility accelerates recovery and regeneration from sports injuries.
