| What We Treat
Return-to-Sport Rehabilitation
Most reinjuries happen because return was decided on the calendar rather than on capacity. Testing changes that.
Overview
What It Is
Returning to sport is a decision, and it should be made on measured capacity rather than elapsed time. The gap between feeling better and being ready is where most reinjuries occur — strength deficits, movement asymmetries and lost confidence persist well after pain resolves. Criteria-based return testing makes that gap visible and closable.
Capacity, Not Calendar
Strength symmetry, hop performance and movement quality measured rather than estimated. Guessing is what produces reinjury.
Symptoms
How It Tends to Feel
These are the features that point towards this diagnosis rather than another:
Strength Asymmetry
Frequently substantial even when the limb feels normal.
Reduced Confidence
Hesitancy in the specific movements that caused the injury.
Fatigue-Related Deterioration
Movement quality falling away as the session goes on.
Altered Movement Patterns
Compensations persisting long after the injury has healed.
Loss of Sport-Specific Fitness
Frequently underestimated after weeks out.
Apprehension in Contact
Particularly after instability injuries.
Causes & Risk Factors
What Drives It
The usual contributors, in rough order of how often they turn out to matter:
Time-Based Return
Discharging on a calendar rather than on tested capacity.
Incomplete Strength Recovery
The commonest measurable deficit at return.
Absent Sport-Specific Loading
Rehabilitation that stops at the gym and never reaches the pitch.
Psychological Readiness
Frequently the limiting factor, and rarely assessed.
How We Can Help You
Treatment & Management
Treatment is built around what the assessment finds, but generally follows this shape:
When to Seek Help
Red Flags — Don’t Ignore These
Most presentations are straightforward. These features are the exceptions, and warrant prompt assessment:
⚠ Seek Medical Advice If You Notice
- Pain that increases with each session rather than settling
- Swelling recurring after activity
- Giving way, locking or catching
- A new mechanism of pain during the return process
If any of these apply, contact your GP or seek urgent medical care rather than waiting for a physiotherapy appointment.
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you know when I am ready?
Through testing rather than time: strength symmetry, hop performance, movement quality under fatigue and psychological readiness. Guessing is what produces reinjury.
Why does my knee feel fine but test poorly?
Because pain resolves long before strength returns. That gap is exactly what testing is for, and it is where most reinjuries happen.
Is being nervous a reason to wait?
It is worth taking seriously. Psychological readiness independently predicts reinjury, and it is addressable rather than something to push through.
Not Sure If This Is What You Have?
An assessment will tell you what is actually going on and what to do about it. I see everyone myself, and you will leave with a plan rather than a leaflet.
Book Your Initial AssessmentThis page is for general information only and isn’t a substitute for individual medical advice. If you’re experiencing any of the warning signs above, contact your GP or seek emergency medical care as appropriate.