Introduction to Sports Physiotherapy by Sports Physiotherapist, Aarthi Manickam.

"Sports Physiotherapy"  is a field of Physiotherapy which deals with the Sports population. It plays a important role  in Sports Medicine where in, the Physiotherapist is very important. The sports physiotherapy deals not only with the treatment of injuries but it also deals with Prehabilitation -prevention of injuries  , Rehabilitation - following an injury, Performance enhancement,Sports psychology. Sports Physiotherapist must be aware of all the hands on techniques since they are given very less time to diagnose and treat on field.

 Qualities of a Sports Physiotherapist are

1. Knowledgeable.
2. Presence of mind.
3. Quick in diagnosing and treating injuries
4. Assertive.
5. Physically Fit to demonstrate all the forms of exercise
6. Physically and mentally strong.
7. Optimist.

Sports Physiotherapy includes hands on Manipulative therapy, Electrotherapy, Exercise therapy, Rehabilitation and fitness, Hydrotherapy, Prehabilitation, Sports specific fitness, also the physio must be aware of the Bio mechanics involved in each sport, the Physio should be aware of the video analysis and upcoming research works to improve the performance .Since a Sports Physio often travels with the team or the individual elite player its better for the physio to get along with the player to know about him/her in the field and off the field, so that his social activities are monitored. Travelling with the team becomes more challenging interesting as the Physio has to use the place sensibly , monitoring the players's diet (basic knowledge) and also be aware of the climatic condition where the sport is been played so that the player gets acclimatize to the weather. 

Physiotherapist must always beware of the latest updates , regular conference and case discussions will help them to update themselves, Physiotherapist should not always stick on to books cause they need to change their technique and plan according to the condition of the individual rather than the books.

At this point of time, i would like to thank my mentor Sports Medicine physician Doctor Kannan Pugazhendi for he has been my inspiration in my life. His teachings, support and precious life lessons have given me lot of learning experience. Wherever I may go in my life, I will always remember that I had an excellent guide in the form of a teacher. 

"Being a Sports Physio is a Pride".


Experience on field and off field.....
More to come