What Are Different Types Of Therapy In Sports?

There are a variety of therapists available, each claiming to be distinct, each having undergone various training and providing various treatments and services. Which one is the best for your needs? You may be considering pursuing a training program to work in the field of sports injuries but aren't sure what field to pursue.

Athletic Therapist

The therapists who treat athletes treat a wide range of patients. Some are employed in professional sports teams while others work in clinics for injuries, and they treat are able to treat all types of musculoskeletal issues and not just sports injuries. Therapists for athletics evaluate the severity of injuries and then treat them with various methods, using the latest rehabilitation methods, therapeutic techniques such as soft tissue mobilization, physical rehabilitation, and techniques for strapping.

They must finish the degree program at an accredited college or university. 

Chiropractor

Chiropractic care focuses on the spine and the musculoskeletal system. Chiropractors work on vertebrae, joints, and bones around the spine to reduce pain and increase mobility. They also may employ different techniques, such as acupuncture, and offer instructions on exercises that will aid in relieving pain and improving the condition of the spine.

Occupational Therapist

Occupational therapists can be found in the UK and the USA. Their job is to aid their patients with everyday activities and assist them in overcoming physical disabilities like injuries and medical issues.

An occupational therapist (OT) evaluates and treats psychological and physical impairments. Accidents, illness, or the aging process could cause disabilities. The type of treatment could include exercises to help prevent disabilities and allow for daily living activities. Occupational therapists also help patients utilize adaptive aids that help with daily life. Some examples include magnets that assist in lifting objects or cans, electric can openers, and walking aids.

Osteopath

As per the General Osteopathic Council, "Osteopathy is the process of identifying and treating injured parts of the body, such as ligaments, muscles, joints, and nerves. If the body is well-balanced and efficient, like an engine tuned to perfection it can function with the least amount in wear and tear, allowing more energy to live."

Osteopaths are most well-known for their treatment of back pain. They also treat various conditions, including postural disorders, repetitive strain injuries, pregnant women, and infants. Because many sports injuries are joint and muscle-related, Osteopaths are particularly efficient in treating injuries in sports. Various methods are employed, but the most common are manipulation of joints and spinal canals, as well as massage.

In the UK, The General Osteopathic Council is responsible for regulating Osteopathy. It is a crime for anyone to identify themselves as an Osteopath who the General Osteopathic Council does not license. The GOsC regulates, promotes, and further develops the Osteopathy profession by keeping an official Register of individuals qualified to be osteopaths. Only osteopaths who meet the highest standards of safety and competence can be admitted to this registry. It is also required to prove they are in good physical and mental health and have professional indemnity insurance coverage.

Physical Therapist

Physical therapists' patients include those who have suffered from accidents and disabilities such as lower-back pain, heart disease, arthritis, head injuries, fractures, and cerebral palsy and are afflicted by sports-related issues. Some physical therapists deal with various illnesses, while others are specialized in, for instance, sports medicine. Physical therapists employ a range of therapies, including the therapeutic use of hands and exercise programs and ultrasound and electrical stimulation. Physical therapists are employed in clinics, hospitals, and private offices. They provide treatment to patients at their homes or schools.

A physical therapist who has completed an accredited college program or trained in a foreign country can meet the academic requirements in physical therapy, such as courses in biology, the fundamental medical sciences, and practical experiences. Additionally, certain states require that physical therapists pass the national physical therapy exam and a test on the laws and regulations that govern the practice of physical therapy.

Podiatrist

A Podiatrist examines and treats problems affecting the limb's lower part. They offer expert guidance on preventing foot issues and proper foot care.

Podiatrists could work in a private clinic, hospital department, health center, or GP office. Some visit schools or patients who cannot leave their homes or are in a nursing facility. All podiatrists working in the UK require a Bachelor's Degree from a podiatry college and be certified by the Health Professions Council (HPC).

Sports Massage Therapist

There needs to be more clarity about what a Sports Masseur is and what they can do or offer. This is because there are a lot of masseurs and a myriad of practitioners with different abilities and degrees of expertise. Sports massage is a great option for treating injuries as a preventative therapy that addresses the condition of the muscle and connective tissue, flexibility of movement, strength, symmetry, alignment of muscles, and how posture is performed.

Sports Therapist

In sports, a Therapist assists injured athletes in returning to their full potential following an injury. Treatment for injuries varies based on the sport or activity. A trained professional Sports Therapist can advise on preventing injuries and determine and treat any injuries that happen in addition to assisting in rehabilitation.

As of the time in the UK, Sports Therapy is unregulated. This is changing now, as the introduction of new Statutory Regulations is being developed. Anyone can be a sports therapist, also known as a Sports Masseur, without a degree. Certain sports therapists hold an accredited diploma, while others hold an education degree. A Sports Therapist is distinct from a sports massage therapist, who is generally not certified in rehabilitation or electrotherapy. They might only have a brief training.

Therapists who work with sports may be part of The Society of Sports Therapists, the Sports Therapy Organisation, or both. This includes insurance for public liability, and members must undergo 10 hours of continuing personal development (CPD) each year. This includes attending classes and seminars to stay current with the latest developments, techniques, and research.