Prehab is the new rehab

10 June 2014

As the winter sports season gets underway, physiotherapists across Australia are bracing themselves for the influx of sprains, strains and other injuries.

Every year around one million Australians are injured playing sport or undertaking recreational activities, costing the country up to $2 billion.*

But what if you could gaze into a crystal ball and predict and prevent injuries before they happen?

A sports physiotherapy assessment and a prehabilitation plan could keep you on your feet and injury free.

‘We see the same risk factors again and again for sports and fitness injuries, but usually by the time the patient sees a physio, it’s too late,’ APA President Marcus Dripps said.

‘Physiotherapists can identify the risks and offer ‘prehabilitation’ – corrective training to amend problems before an injury happens.’

Even if you feel like you’re in top shape, an injury might not be far away.

‘It’s not so different to going to a dentist or doctor for regular checkups. Everyone has their own set of particular weaknesses, inflexibilities and movement incongruities. A Sports Physiotherapist will assess your posture, core stability muscle strength and flexibility, joint alignment and mobility and incorrect movement patterns,’ Mr Dripps explained.

Prehabilitation would be useful for those who are new to exercises, planning to intensify their exercise routine, or returning to exercise following illness or pregnancy. The Sports Physiotherapist will take into account your lifestyle and daily activities to help safeguard your body.

Impressive prehabilitation results have been demonstrated in several large, high-quality studies. The studies found that prehabilitation programs help prevent serious injuries in soccer players, knee injuries in court sport players, and hamstring injuries in AFL players.

‘Prevention is the best medicine,’ Mr Dripps added. ‘Sports injuries are extremely detrimental to your physical ability, mental health and quality of life. A simple check up with a Sports Physiotherapist can help you improve your performance and prevent serious, long-term damage.’

If you require further advice on warm ups, exercising safely with an existing injury or condition, and
prehabilitation plans, please seek the advice of our Sports Physiotherapist, Simon Hogg

* Source: Monash University

For more information or to book an appointment, please contact us at the clinic

P: 9775 2962

1297 Nepean Highway

Mount Eliza 3930