Physical Sports Therapy

Also known as: physical therapy, PT.

What is physical sports therapy?

Physical therapy is a form of therapy that helps people rehabilitate through exercises, stretching and orthopedics in order to regain the mobility and function of their bodies. Physical therapy is often needed after a severe injury or a debilitating illness.

Physical sports therapy is a branch of physical therapy that is focused on preventing injuries that commonly occur during sports competition, as well as specifically treating the injuries athletes develop in the course of their training and competition.

What happens during the treatment?

A licensed sports physical therapist will meet with the individual and determine the treatment that is needed in order for them to accomplish their goals. The specific nature of physical sports therapy can vary widely.

Some patients will require a series of exercises in order to improve mobility or enhance function. Others may require orthopedics or assistive devices in order to regain their abilities.

Is any special preparation needed?

No special preparation is needed for this treatment.

What are the risk factors?

There is a risk of injury related to some of the exercises or stretches performed in physical sports therapy. Following the therapist's instructions carefully is important.

Reviewed by: Craig J Spurdle, MD

This page was last updated on: 8/5/2026 19:41:02

Sports Health

The Sports Health Program at Nicklaus Children's is one of the premier sports health programs in the nation, combining state-of-the-art diagnostics and screening with a multidisciplinary team of pediatric sports medicine specialists for athletes.

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