Physical Therapy for Gymnastics Injuries
Gymnastics is a physically demanding sport that carries one of the highest injury rates among girls’ athletics. The competitive nature of the sport and long hours of training, coupled with the still-developing muscular and skeletal systems of young gymnasts, adds to the risk for injury in youth and teens.
If your child or teen is suffering from a gymnastics-related injury, Capital Area PT can help her get back on the beam (or the uneven bars, floor, vault – you get the idea!) Our sports physical therapists offer comprehensive rehabilitation programs for gymnasts, including hands-on manual therapy, pain management, taping and bracing techniques, and gymnastics-specific training and conditioning exercises to restore mobility, regain strength, and prevent recurrent injuries.
Common Gymnastics Injuries
Gymnastics injuries can result from a fall or impact, but are more commonly the result of overuse and repetitive movement. Because the sport requires extreme strength and flexibility, as well as rigorous training, injuries can occur from lack of strength in the core, arms or legs, insufficient flexibility, muscle imbalance, or improper jumping or landing techniques. Common gymnastics injuries include:
- Ankle sprains
- ACL tears
- Patellar Tears & Tendinitis
- Hip Impingement & Labral Tears
- Wrist Sprains
- Elbow Injuries
- Shoulder Impingement & Labral Tears
- Rotator Cuff Strains
- Low Back Pain & Spondylolisthesis
Physical Therapy Treatment for Gymnastics Injuries
Our sports physical therapists help gymnasts regain strength and flexibility, while also managing pain and preventing recurrent injuries. We start by assessing the injury and performing a series of tests to identify any areas of weakness or limitation that could affect the gymnast’s stability and recovery.
After the evaluation, we create a customized treatment program for each individual. These treatment plans typically include the use of ice, heat and hands-on manual therapy to manage pain and improve range of motion. We also provide balance and proprioceptive training, core strengthening and other targeted strengthening exercises to address the affected area or other weaknesses, as well as stretching and aerobic conditioning.
Instruction on taping or bracing is often included, as is functional training on jumping and landing techniques to decrease impact and stress on the body and reduce the risk of future injuries.
Schedule a PT Appointment
Capital Area PT offers physical therapy for gymnasts of all levels, from youth sports to professional athletes, and we have four offices in the Albany-Glens Falls region. To make a physical therapy appointment in Malta, Saratoga Springs, Delmar or Queensbury NY, please call (518) 289-5242.