Sports Medicine
Expert Care for Athletes of All Ages & Skill Levels
Adolescent athletes sustain injuries at nearly the same rate as professional athletes, requiring specialized care for safe recovery and optimal performance. At every age and skill level, proper rehabilitation is essential for returning to play safely and efficiently.
startPTNow is one of the few clinics in the area that specializes in adolescent sports injuries while offering comprehensive rehabilitation for athletes of all ages. Our sports medicine experts understand the unique demands of athletic performance and recovery.
Sports Medicine Q & A
What is sports medicine?
Sports medicine is a specialized field of physical therapy focused on helping athletes recover from injuries sustained during athletic activities and optimizing performance for safe return to sport. Our sports medicine specialists understand the unique physical demands of athletic competition and training.
Important aspects of sports medicine include:
Sports medicine isn't limited to professional athletes or organized sports participants. Anyone who sustains an injury during physical activity can benefit from specialized sports physical therapy to recover faster and more completely.
Do adolescents benefit from sports medicine?
Adolescents significantly benefit from specialized sports medicine care. The team at startPTNow focuses on sport-specific therapy for young athletes, emphasizing both injury prevention and comprehensive rehabilitation when injuries occur.
Our adolescent sports medicine approach includes:
Injury Prevention
- Proper biomechanics training
- Strength and conditioning programs
- Flexibility and mobility exercises
- Sport-specific movement patterns
- Recovery and rest period education
Rehabilitation Focus
- Rebuilding strength and endurance
- Restoring agility and coordination
- Improving mobility and flexibility
- Gradual return-to-sport progression
- Long-term athletic development
Common Adolescent Injuries
- Ankle sprains and ligament injuries
- Meniscus and knee ligament tears
- Rotator cuff and shoulder injuries
- Back pain and spinal issues
- Elbow injuries (tennis/golfer's/pitcher's elbow)
While adolescents may experience traumatic injuries, overuse injuries are more common. These occur from repetitive movements, intensive training, or insufficient recovery time, leading to soft tissue damage in muscles and ligaments. Adult athletes often experience similar injury patterns, and our comprehensive approach benefits athletes of all ages.
What symptoms indicate I need a sports medicine specialist?
Recognizing when to seek sports medicine expertise is crucial for proper recovery and preventing long-term complications. Early intervention often leads to better outcomes and faster return to activity.
Common symptoms indicating the need for sports medicine care include:
If you suspect a fracture or severe injury, seek immediate orthopedic care. Otherwise, the team at startPTNow performs thorough evaluations and will refer you to appropriate specialists if we identify conditions requiring advanced medical attention.
What type of treatment do sports medicine specialists provide?
Sports medicine specialists at startPTNow provide comprehensive treatment programs designed to accelerate healing, restore function, and prepare athletes for safe return to their sport. Early intervention with physical therapy is key to optimal recovery.
Our comprehensive treatment approach includes:
Therapeutic Modalities
- Electrical stimulation for pain control
- Ultrasound therapy for tissue healing
- Therapeutic massage and soft tissue work
- Balance and proprioception training
- Heat and cold therapy applications
Rehabilitation Exercises
- Structured therapeutic exercise programs
- Muscle strengthening and endurance training
- Range of motion and flexibility exercises
- Sport-specific functional training
- Graduated return-to-sport progression
Advanced Solutions
- ALINE® custom insoles for joint alignment
- Biomechanical analysis and correction
- Performance enhancement strategies
- Injury prevention programming
- Long-term athletic development plans
Physical therapy accelerates healing by reducing inflammation, easing pain, and promoting optimal tissue repair. As recovery progresses, we introduce increasingly challenging, sport-specific exercises that prepare you to return to play stronger than before your injury. ALINE® insoles are particularly effective for reducing joint stress and improving lower extremity alignment, benefiting both recovery and performance enhancement for many athletes.
Sports medicine promotes optimal health and performance for adolescents and adults who enjoy athletic activities. Call StartPTNow or book an appointment online today to learn how we can help you recover and excel in your sport.
