What is often required for physical therapists who wish to work with athletes?

To work with athletes, physical therapists often need specialized training or certifications in sports physical therapy. This specialized knowledge is crucial because athletes have unique physical demands and injury patterns that differ from those of the general population. Understanding sports biomechanics, injury prevention, rehabilitation protocols specific to various sports, and conditioning programs is essential to effectively support athletes through their recovery and enhance their performance.

Specialized training helps therapists develop skills that enable them to design sport-specific rehabilitation protocols, implement performance enhancement exercises, and address the psychological aspects of sports recovery. Certifications in sports physical therapy, such as those offered by the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties (ABPTS), validate a therapist's expertise and commitment to this specific area of practice, ensuring that they have a comprehensive understanding of the needs of athletes.