If you have a leg injury from a sports-related accident, you probably want to get back out there as quickly as possible. Healing from a sports injury requires a multifaceted plan, as not only do you want your injury to recover, but you also want to return to your athletic form as soon as possible. Physical therapy in Wichita, KS is one treatment method that is very effective for both weekend and professional athletes.
How PT Can Speed Up Recovery
Physical therapy helps with recovery in a variety of ways. After an initial exam, your physical therapist will recommend a treatment plan for the fastest recovery. The first goal is to get you out of pain and reduce any other symptom. Methods used to do this may include:
- Manual therapy
- Cold or hot therapy
- Electrical stimulation
- Dry needling
- Stretching
- Bracing and taping
Once your symptoms have reduced, the focus will be on improving strength, balance, coordination, and function. This phase of care may include muscle work and exercises. Initially, light weights or bands may be used. Once you begin to regain some of your strength, exercises using higher weights may be introduced.
How PT Can Help Your Return to Form
When searching for physical therapy near me, make sure you request a therapist that is skilled in working with athletes, as there are specific treatment methods that are more geared towards those playing sports. Once your strength and balance begin to improve, your physical therapist may introduce advanced methods.
Anti-Gravity Treadmill
One such method is the AlterG Anti-Gravity Treadmill. In general, this allows you to run or walk with significantly reduced stress to your lower extremities.
The treadmill has a chamber that inflates to basically reduce your body weight. You wear special sports and then zip into the chamber. Your therapist will determine what to adjust the treadmill to so you can resist gravity. Using this treadmill allows you to exercise at a higher intensity without putting pressure on your leg, which improves your strength and agility.
Blood Flow Restriction
Another way to build muscle without stressing your leg is blood flow restriction. A wrap or cuff is applied to your leg muscle, which reduces the flow of blood to the area. You can then use significantly lighter weights while regaining pre-injury strength. Your physical therapist will help determine the weights you should use.
Sports-Specific Ergonomics
If your injury occurred due to improper form or overuse, your PT may teach you ergonomics specifically geared for your sport. You may also receive neuromuscular re-education training. These methods not only help you recover faster, but you also learn the tools necessary to prevent further injuries to the leg.
If you suffer from a sports-related leg injury, or you injure another part of your body, physical therapy has been found to provide the treatment necessary to recover and return to the sport.
PT clinics sometimes have difficulty finding and hiring physical therapists who understand sports medicine. If you have the education and experience, search for physical therapy jobs near me to find the right fit.
