Sports physical therapists help rehabilitate athletes who have sustained physical injuries. They diagnose problems and evaluate patient progress throughout a treatment plan.
Sports physical therapy involves evaluation, prevention, treatment and rehabilitation. This specialization is also concerned with performance enhancement. They spend time teaching preventative techniques to athletes, families, coaches and even other physical therapists. Sports physical therapists work with doctors to develop programs to help athletes manage pain and recuperate from injuries. Work can be physically demanding; physical therapists often stand for long periods and assist patients within the process of therapy. They also play a role in assessing when someone is ready to return to physical activity.