Working hand in hand with your Athletic Trainers, parents and coaches should consider consulting a physical therapist for their youth athlete when the individual is experiencing pain, swelling, or decreased/painful movement. All of these items can then lead to a decrease in normal ability to perform daily activities or sport participation. Not only do PTs treat injury but they are movement specialists and can help determine areas of your body that may be limiting your performance. Here are some instances to consider consulting a PT:
 

• A new injury that occurred during an activity, often a sprain or strain

• A pain that has developed over time with no specific incident and causes discomfort during or after activity

• A constant reoccurrence of a minor injury that only slightly limits participation (ie. reoccurring ankle sprains)

• Concussion or head injury with lingering symptoms

• Post-operative care

• Inability to feel recovered after a series of practices or games

• Flexibility limiting every day activities or performance

• Seeking a movement assessment to learn areas of limitation that may contribute to future injury
   

Athletic trainers and physical therapists have similar roles in regard to management and treatment of sport injuries. Both physical therapists and athletic trainers work to prevent, evaluate, and rehabilitate injuries, working together, along with Strength & Conditioning staff, to ensure a safe return 2 play.