There are several types of sports injury therapy techniques used for a variety of different pathologies, injury prevention, and performance enhancement. Not all patients that choose to seek sports therapy are athletes, and these techniques have proven to be very effective for any condition that limits range of motion and causes muscle soreness or pain. Some of the most common types of sports medicine include massage therapy, joint taping, and patient specific exercise training. A wide assortment of therapists are often found in sports medicine clinics, and each type is trained in a certain modality and use their skills to reduce clints' injury symptoms as well as prevent further muscle and joint damage.
One of the most common types of sports injury therapy is the use of massage for injuries related to the various systems of muscle tissue. These techniques are designed to encourage blood and oxygen flow to the tissues, relax muscle knots, and assist with the healthy flow of lymph fluids. Most experts recommend massage therapy both before and after athletic events, as well as when needed for sports injuries. Massage therapy can be applied to specific areas of the body or applied to the full body for greater relaxation and healing. This type of sports therapy is not recommended for injuries that produce any swelling or broken skin.
Most sports injury therapy personnel are normally well trained in taping an athlete to support a sports related injury as well as prevent further injury while the patient heals. The procedure typically involves the use of medical gauze, tape, cloth, or elastic bandage with metal clips to fasten the wrap. Bandages are securely wrapped around the injured body part and both reduces swelling and helps keep the appendage stationary. The taping or wrapping procedure is especially useful for most joints including the ankles, knees, wrists, and elbows.
It is not uncommon for a patient with a sports related injury to continue working out the injured area with specific types of exercises. This type of sports injury therapy is typically the responsibility of a physical therapist or sports rehabilitation professional. In many cases, the exercises consist of stretching movements designed to help the client regain their previous range of motion, while weight bearing exercises are often added in at a later time to enhance strength. Core stability exercises, characterized by exercises intended to strengthen the muscles of the back, abdomen, and chest, are commonly used as well.