If you’re a winter sports enthusiast, now is probably your favorite time of year. Even if you’re in prime physical condition, you still run the risk of experiencing a sports injury without the right support. Physical therapy is crucial in this case, as it can help you heal from past injuries while also preventing future ones.

Physical Therapy Benefits These 3 Sports

1. Skiing & Snowboarding

Knee injuries are common in athletes who practice skiing and snowboarding. They can sustain sprains and strains in the ligaments that connect the knee to other tissue, which can occur due to improper form or lack of conditioning. Lower back pain is another issue, and this usually results from poor posture. A physical therapist can help you build muscles in crucial areas, such as in the upper and lower body. This will allow you to maneuver correctly on the slopes, which also reduces your risk of injury.   

2. Hockey

Hockey is a high contact sport and players are prone to a variety of injuries. Because hockey can be tough on the body, it’s crucial that players are in peak shape. A physical therapist can help players achieve proper conditioning through exercise, which will focus on the lower body and other areas important to the sport. Physical therapy can also help after an injury has already taken place. After a fracture, a hockey player may need help improving range of motion and flexibility, especially if they have been out of commission for a while.

3. Figure Skating

While it’s not as high-impact as the other sports above, figure skating still requires a high level of skill. Figure skaters perform complicated maneuvers, many of which require intense conditioning and muscle control. Much like skiing, injuries to the knee can occur easily, and ankle injuries are also a concern. Building up the muscles around these areas is key to preventing injuries, and physical therapy helps loosen tissues to boost flexibility.

Don’t let pain and stiffness prevent you from partaking in your favorite winter sport. Instead, visit the team at Step By Step Physical Therapy in Warsaw, NY, to ensure your body is primed and ready. The physical therapy staff will develop a personalized plan that focuses on building up muscles and structures necessary to play your sport of choice. Treatment includes strength training, targeted exercise, stretching, deep-tissue massage, and cold therapy. Call (585) 786-8700 to schedule a consultation. You can also visit them online to see the complete list of their services.