Speedy Rehabilitation

To ensure an athlete may return to play as soon as possible, a variety of rehabilitation processes should be implemented. These should include progressive mobilisation, graduated exercise (including stretching, conditioning and total body fitness), training and the use of hot and cold applicants. When each step is correctly addressed, it will increase the likelihood of a speedy reintroduction to sport.
Progressive mobilisation is necessary to enhance the range of movement available. A quadriceps strain causes severe damage to muscle and connective tissues; tendons and ligaments, leading to scar tissue to form and immobilisation. Active and passive movement techniques can be introduced soon after the injury to prevent muscle inactivity. It is important that the athlete is ready to undertake this phase by ensuring the movements are slow, circulation to the area is increased beforehand and movement remains pain free. Therefore progressive mobilisation is a key stage in the initial rehabilitation process as it prevents muscle stiffness. …show more content…
Stretching is beneficial as it reduces muscle tension, increases circulation, increases muscle and tendon length and improves the range of motion at the injured site. Stretching can be in the form of PNF and static stretches at this stage, ensuring technique is correct and is pain-free. Conditioning of the injury is vital because inactivity leads to muscle atrophy. Therefore, it is crucial that strength in the muscle is regained or reformed. Total Body fitness is the final step in the graduated exercise process. It is essential that overall fitness is restored, not just the recuperation. The choice of total body fitness exercises will depend on the type and severity of the