Physical Therapy Guide to Return to Sprinting After Lower Extremity Injury | FPF Show E:79
In today's episode we go over a Physical Therapy Guide to Return to Sprinting After Lower Extremity Injury | FPF Show E:79
As physical therapists, we all know that returning athletes to their pre-injury level of performance can be a challenging and complex process. However, one of the most critical aspects of rehabilitating an athlete with lower extremity injuries is implementing a smart return to sprinting program. Return to run programs are challenging enough but how do we take the next step and return to sprints?
Sprinting is a fundamental component of most sports and requires a significant amount of force production and absorption through the lower extremities. As such, it is essential to have a well-designed return to sprinting program that incorporates a gradual increase in intensity and volume while addressing any deficits in strength, mobility, and neuromuscular control.
The sprinting program should focus on progressively increasing the demands placed on the lower extremities. This may involve incorporating drills and exercises that target specific aspects of sprinting mechanics, such as fast ground reaction times, acceleration and maximal speed.
It is also important to ensure that the athlete's overall conditioning is at an appropriate level before beginning any return to sprinting program. This may involve incorporating aerobic and anaerobic conditioning exercises, such as a progressive return to run program, cycling or swimming, to build cardiovascular endurance and improve the athlete's ability to handle the demands of sprinting.
Another critical component of a smart return to sprinting program is monitoring the athlete's progress closely. This may involve regularly assessing for changes in range of motion or swelling as well as monitoring any signs of pain, excessive muscular soreness or discomfort. If any issues arise, adjustments should be made to the program to address them quickly and effectively.
Check out the video below to see exactly how I like to progress my athletes back to sprinting after lower extremity injury:
In conclusion, a smart return to sprinting program is essential for rehabilitating athletes with lower extremity injuries. By incorporating a gradual increase in intensity and volume, addressing any deficits in strength, mobility, and stability, and monitoring the athlete's progress closely, we can help ensure a safe and successful return to sport.
Always sprinting...
- Dan Pope DPT, OCS, CSCS
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Dan Pope DPT, OCS, CSCS
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