Physiotherapy For Okotoks Hockey: Rebuilding Strength After Injuries
Hockey is a huge part of daily life in Okotoks, with local teams like the Okotoks Oilers capturing the hearts of fans and players alike. The fast-paced and physically tolling nature, however, often leads to injuries that require professional attention to ensure full recovery and prevent long-term complications. This is where we at Big Rock Chiropractic, Physiotherapy, and Massage hope to help you!
Rehabilitating Hockey Injuries
Common injuries among hockey players include ligament sprains, muscle tears, and overuse related injuries like muscle strains and pulls. These injuries can significantly impair mobility, strength, and make it hard for an athlete to perform their best.
Big Rock’s Physiotherapists clinics in Okotoks specialize in rehabilitating these injuries through personalized treatment plans. Physiotherapists use a combination of manual therapy, exercise prescription, and modalities like ultrasound and electrical stimulation to reduce pain, restore function, and enhance strength and flexibility. They also provide education on injury prevention strategies and proper movement techniques to minimize the risk of future injuries.
Muscle Pulls and Tears from Hockey
When treating a pulled or torn muscle, our physiotherapists will start out by assessing how bad the injury is. They might use gentle stretching and controlled movements to help reduce muscle tightness and improve flexibility. Applying ice or heat can also manage pain and swelling. The therapist may use massage techniques to increase blood flow to the injured area, which promotes healing. They often introduce specific exercises to strengthen the muscles around the injury, helping to support and protect it. Throughout the treatment, the physiotherapist guides the patient on proper movement and posture to prevent further strain. They monitor progress and adjust the treatment plan as needed to ensure the muscle heals properly.
Ligament Injuries Suffered During Hockey
Torn ligaments, specifically around the knee are unfortunately quite common in hockey. Whether taking a big hit, or an awkward fall into the boards, we know these injuries can happen and we want to get you feeling better and back on the ice as soon as practical, and at full strength as well to prevent re-injury!
When treating a pulled or torn ligament, our physiotherapists usually begin by checking how serious the injury is. The first thing to do is often rest and protecting the injured area to let it heal. To reduce pain and swelling, they might use a combination ice packs, compression wraps and heat. As the ligament starts to heal, our team will begin to introduces gentle movements to improve flexibility and joint mobility. We will also provide specific exercises based on where you are in your recovery journey to strengthen the muscles around the joint, which helps support the injured ligament. Balance and stability training may be included to prevent future injuries. Throughout the treatment, the physiotherapist teaches safe ways to move and adjusts the plan as needed to ensure the ligament heals properly. These exercises and treatments can vary greatly depending on if the ligament was just injured, or you are nearing return to play, so a fulsome recovery plan is key!
We Look Forward To Helping You Get Back On The Ice!
By engaging in physiotherapy, hockey players can accelerate their recovery process, regain optimal function, and safely return to the sport they are passionate about. This comprehensive approach not only aids in healing but also empowers athletes with the knowledge and skills to maintain their health. Through physiotherapy, Okotoks continues to support its hockey community, ensuring players stay strong and the spirit of the game thrives.