Most chiropractors and physical therapists will suggest physical therapy as the main treatment method for sports injuries. The biggest misconception about physical therapy is that it is specifically designed for elite athletes. At West Loop Spine & Stability, we make physical therapy available to athletes of all ages and skill levels. Depending on the situation, physical therapy treatment is preferable to sports injury rehabilitation through invasive surgery and medication.
Knee and Shoulder Injuries are Most Common
The most common sports injuries involve the knees and shoulders. The knee only moves in one direction but sits between two joints (the ankle and hip) that move in three directions. The situation of the rigid knee joint between these two mobile joints makes it especially susceptible to injury following an unstable landing or a sudden lateral movement. ACL tears are common in soccer, football, and basketball players due to poor landing mechanics when jumping and trauma to the side of the knee.
The shoulder is the most mobile joint in the body, but also the least stable. This is why shoulder injuries are so common in overhead athletics. For example, the repetitive shoulder motion of a baseball pitcher commonly leads to rotator cuff tears. To minimize this risk, baseball players should limit the number of pitches they throw each game.
A significant portion of sports injuries are due to the body being unprepared for athletic movement or sudden contact with an opposing player. This underscores the importance of dynamic warm-ups before an athletic contest, which prepares the body for exercise and reduces the risk of injury. Simulating gameplay during training is also crucial, as it allows the body to adapt to strenuous, repetitive motions.
Visit Our Physical Therapist
If pain and swelling do not go away, or you are struggling to bear weight following a sports injury, it is time to see a physical therapist. Physical therapy is designed to help injured individuals regain strength and mobility in the injured area of their body. After an initial examination, our physical therapist will develop a physical therapy regimen tailored to your needs and lifestyle.
Illinois is a direct access state, meaning physician referral is not required to see a physical therapist. If you are looking for a physical therapist in Chicago, IL, consider West Loop Spine & Stability. We serve the West Loop, River North, South Loop, Streeterville, Gold Coast, Ukrainian Village, and the greater Chicago area. For further inquiry regarding our physical therapy services, or to schedule an appointment, call us at (312) 928-9282 or visit us online.