In the last article, we saw an example of how an outpatient orthopaedic physical therapist could utilize their skills outside of the clinical setting. I described my own experience volunteering at a local high school. However, there are numerous other ways for physical therapists to serve their communities. No matter where you live, you can be certain that there will be all types of sports or recreational activities happening close by each weekend. It could be a soccer, lacrosse, volleyball, or basketball tournament. Maybe it’s a 5K “fun run” or holiday bike ride.
Whatever the activity, a physical therapist can volunteer to lend a helping and healing hand. ProActive Physical Therapy has been on the starting line, sidelines, and finish line of numerous competitions, tournaments, and fundraisers to assist the athletes and participants prepare for, take part in, and recover from such events. The therapists are available for stretching and proper pre-game warm-up as well as injury assessment and management during and following a game or race.
In Southern California, some higher profile events include: The Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon, The Susan G. Komen 3-Day, and the Avon Walk for Breast Cancer. Therapists at ProActive Physical Therapy & Sports Medicine have provided support to the runners and walkers in various ways. During the course of training for a marathon or walk, many participants will typically develop overuse injuries or syndromes. It is usually advisable to schedule an appointment with your physician. However, if you’re simply curious and want to ask someone about your symptoms then feel free to call ProActive Physical Therapy to schedule a complimentary injury screen. If you have been seen by your physician and require physical therapy then we can get you back on the road and training as quickly as possible. Finally, after completing the race or walk, therapy can help your body recover from all the miles you’ve logged.
Whether it’s in the clinic or in the community, ProActive Physical Therapy is there to serve!