Pitch Side Support: A Physios role in Professional Football Club In Malaysia Super League.
If you’re a keen football fan or player you’ll probably be aware of the presence of a physiotherapist on the pitch side-lines. Their role extends far beyond match day, though. Physiotherapists are called upon throughout the months of training, the match itself and recovery. In today’s blog Renesh Prabaharan, physio with Axis Physiotherapy & Lead Physio at Kuala Lumpur City FC, looks at the role of physiotherapy in football injury prevention and treatment.
Pre-Match
Long before kick-off, physiotherapists play an integral part in a football team’s health and training plan. They will monitor the players’ general well-being including: hydration and sleep levels; resting heart rates and joint/muscular health. Prior to warm-up on the day, they may also provide joint mobilization, massage and stretching. If necessary, physios will also apply taping or strapping to individual players. Another of their roles is to complete a fitness test with players returning from injury – to confirm their readiness to play.
During The Game
Physiotherapists are key members of the pitch-side support team for each side. They must be able to assess, diagnose, formulate a plan and treat injured players in a very short space of time. They will also have to make the critical decision about whether a player is able to continue playing. Strict guidelines are followed during this assessment. It’s essential that they remain calm under immense pressure; spectators, coaching staff and the rest of the team closely observe their assessment and management of injured players.
Post-Match
After the match, physiotherapists continue to play a key role in supporting football teams. They’ll have to assess and treat any minor injuries picked up during the game. More serious injuries may require immediate scanning and a consultant review which the physio will attend with the player. They’ll also sort out ice baths and post-match massages where required.
How Axis Physiotherapy Can Help You?
Are you a social, semi-pro or professional footballer? If you are, and are either injured or concerned about getting injured, a visit to your physiotherapist can be very beneficial. At your first appointment, you’ll begin with a conversation to establish your main concerns. You’ll discuss the nature of your injury, how it affects you on a day-to-day basis and what your end goals are. The physiotherapist will then conduct a thorough assessment before making a clinical impression or diagnosis. They’ll suggest appropriate treatment options before devising a plan and starting your treatment. You can also ask any questions and get advice on timeframes for your return to training and playing in games.
As well as a specific treatment and rehab plan, your physio will suggest cross-training techniques to maintain your general fitness. As you near the end of your rehabilitation, your physiotherapist will discuss management techniques to avoid re-injury.
If you think we can help you, then please don’t hesitate to get in touch.