Early Management of Sporting Injuries in Team Sports Can Prevent Missing Out

Are you a sports coach, parent or player? Did you know that the early management of sporting injuries is essential in order to prevent long-term damage and subsequent missed games? Here at Articulate we believe that early intervention is key, and are passionate in sharing the importance of early management of sporting injuries and how it can help players stay on the field. Better than early intervention? Prevention! Read on for more information and our top tips for preventing and managing sporting injuries. 

The early management of sporting injuries is a critical part of keeping athletes on the field and preventing long-term damage. Physiotherapy input during the acute phase is important to help reduce swelling and pain, and to promote healing. The aim of physiotherapy during this phase is to protect the injured tissue and prevent further injury. Early management also includes the use of ice, heat, compression and elevation to help reduce swelling (read more about our top tips on PEACE). Physiotherapy during the early phase of injury management is vital to ensure a speedy recovery and return to play. Plus in certain circumstances (especially late in the season) aids in getting through the final games whilst managing the injury. 
As well as our initial first aid, physiotherapy can provide valuable input regarding the evidence around appropriately managing the acute injury such as bracing/taping or early loading strategies in order to minimise muscle strength loss and compensatory pattern formation. In short - if in doubt about an injury, it's always best to make a booking as soon as possible!

Once the acute phase has passed, physiotherapy changes to the rehabilitation phase where it is important to regain strength, range of motion and function. Rehabilitation exercises are progressed as tolerated, depending on the type of injury. The aim of physiotherapy during this phase is to safely return the athlete to their pre-injury level of activity and education on possible prevention ideas as well.
Athletes need to be aware of how to prevent injuries in the first place. Warming up properly before exercise, cooling down afterwards and wearing appropriate clothing and footwear. However the biggest prevention for injuries during the season is a solid preseason. This is the time to get Physio input to help identify any imbalances or weaknesses.
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Read more about Preventing Injuries with Sleep, the Importance of Warming Up and our top Preseason Tips here.

Wanting to find our more about we support athletes (both amateur and elite)? Why not give our friendly Tarragindi physio team a call on 07 3706 3407 or email us at info@articulatephysiotherapy.com.au. We would love to help you perform at your best, and make it through each sporting season injury free!