Physical Therapy Guide to Conditioning After Lower Extremity Injury | FPF Show E:82

By dpope2020

May 5, 2023

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Physical Therapy Guide to Conditioning After Lower Extremity Injury | FPF Show E:82

In today's episode we go over Physical Therapy Guide to Conditioning After Lower Extremity Injury | FPF Show E:82

As a physical therapist, it's essential to know how to introduce and progress aerobic conditioning programs for patients returning to sport after injury. Aerobic conditioning is a vital component of any athlete's performance, and it can also help prevent future injuries. In today's video, we'll explore the importance of aerobic conditioning and how to introduce and progress aerobic programs for your patients after injury.

Aerobic conditioning, also known as cardiovascular endurance, is the ability to perform low to moderate-intensity exercise for an extended period. This type of exercise increases the body's oxygen uptake, strengthens the heart, and improves lung function. These benefits can lead to improved performance in sports, better overall health, and a reduced risk of injury.

When introducing an aerobic conditioning program to a patient, it's important to start slow and gradually progress the intensity and duration of exercise. You should start with low-intensity exercise, with low impact and stress to the healing injury site such as cycling, and gradually increase the intensity as your patient's fitness level improves and the injury progresses. 

It's also important to consider the type of sport your patient is returning to when designing their aerobic conditioning program. For example, a soccer player is going to need more aerobic conditioning than a baseball player.  You should tailor your patient's aerobic program to their individual needs and goals.

Check out the video below to see exactly how I like to introduce and progress aerobic conditioning in my athletes after lower extremity injury:

In conclusion, knowing how to introduce and progress aerobic conditioning programs for patients returning to sport after injury is essential for physical therapists. Aerobic conditioning can improve performance, reduce the risk of injury, and improve overall health. By starting slow, tailoring the program to the individual's needs, and progressing gradually, you can help your patients achieve their goals and return to their sport safely.

My aerobic conditioning is terrible...

- Dan Pope DPT, OCS, CSCS

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Dan Pope DPT, OCS, CSCS

References: 

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