If you are an athlete, not only do you want to reach your full potential, but you are also probably no stranger to injuries. No matter what sport you play, training and competition can be intense, and you often need help from others to keep you in tip-top shape. If you do not already have a physical therapist who you work with, it is time to search for physical therapy in Austin, TX. PTs help in a variety of ways, from reducing injury recovery time to improving your athletic abilities.
Sports physical therapy treatment consists of a wide variety of therapy and training methods. One is sports-specific training regimens. Whether you want to improve your golf swing or get faster on the track, a physical therapist can help.
Using various methods, such as specific exercises, strength training, and manual therapy, adding PT into your training helps improve:
- Coordination
- Balance
- Speed
- Explosiveness
- Response time
- Agility
Most of the best athletes incorporate physical therapy into their regimen. However, even if you are an amateur, you will see vast improvements, both on and off the field (or court, etc.).
How They Help Get You Back on the Field
Another benefit of PT is that it helps significantly with injury recovery. As an athlete, you understand that being out with an injury can greatly affect your ability to play, and you want to heal as quickly as possible. When looking for physical therapy near me, look for someone who is experienced with sports PT. This individual will understand what you are going through and knows specifically what is necessary to get you back to normal.
When you first meet with a physical therapist, he or she will discuss your injury and associated symptoms, your health history, and your goals. After conducting a thorough assessment, the PT will design a customized plan to improve your recovery. Some treatment methods may include:
- Bracing and taping
- Hot and cold therapies
- Orthopedic and manual therapy
- Dry needling
- Trigger point therapy
Once you are out of pain and other symptoms, the therapist will work with you to strengthen and balance the injured area so that you can get back out there.
How They Help Prevent Injuries
Along with improving performance and assisting with injury recovery, a physical therapist can help you prevent injuries, whether you have a weakened area or have never had an injury. The therapist will observe you as you go through the motions of your sport and recommend any ergonomic changes that may reduce the risk of injury.
Physical therapy may also include re-education programs focusing on endurance, resistance, and neuromuscular. Going through these programs further trains your body to move in ways that are more energy efficient and less taxing on your body, which helps when trying to prevent injuries.
Whether you are suffering with an injury or wanting to be better at your sport, physical therapy can help. A sports PT also has connections with other sports medicine professionals so that when you need additional support, you can get it quickly.