It is no secret that athletes, especially elite athletes, practice and compete with aches and pains. They also can practice and compete with injuries. The question that a parent and the athlete are interested in knowing the answer to is when should the athlete practice, not practice, or adjust practice? Should they compete or not compete? There are times that the physical therapist is directly involved in the decision process. This decision process in and of itself is emotionally taxing on the athlete. As is the mental strength that it takes, once the decision has been made, to carry out the decision. A large part of this decision making stress can be attributable to where in the season the athlete is. The stress is greater if the decision process is occurring going into qualifying competitions versus just after the qualifying season. The physical therapy management is also different. An elite athlete about to compete in an important competition is receiving treatment that is geared towards symptom relief as opposed to rest, problem solving, and gentle exercise. The question for the athlete wants to know is will I damage myself if I compete or practice?
There are no easy answers as you may guess. It is absolutely imperative that the athlete’s doctor and physical therapist are involved and understand your specific needs and goals. Consult a sports medicine physician and a physical therapist who regularly treats sports injuries. It is a good idea to be familiar with these professionals even prior to injury so you can build trust in them before a significant decision to compete has to be made.
Posted by ryndakphysicaltherapy 