Returning to sport after injury is not simply a matter of waiting for pain to disappear. A plan may consider function, strength, movement confidence, sport demands and clinical advice.
Identify the injury and warning signs
Injuries that involve severe pain, deformity, inability to bear weight or major swelling need prompt assessment. Do not rely on a general article to determine the diagnosis.
Adapt activity while recovering
Some people benefit from temporarily modifying training load and working through a graded exercise plan. The appropriate plan depends on the injury and the athlete.
Plan a measured return
A clinician may use functional tasks, strength and sport-specific demands when discussing readiness. Timelines differ and should not be universal.
Health information is general and may not apply to every person. Seek medical advice for new, severe or persistent symptoms, and do not change prescribed treatment based on this article.
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