Which Sports Therapist?

When choosing a sport therapist there are three main areas to take into consideration:

Qualifications and knowledge

A good sports therapist should have a knowledge base to a high standard. Ideally the individual would have done a biological science or physiological degree in order to gain a base level of knowledge into anatomy and physiology of the human body. It is also essential that the therapist has a good 'hands on' sports therapy qualification. Level 4 is the highest qualification a therapist can have in the UK; this should be accompanied by a portfolio of governing bodies, and the most recognised being the Sports Massage Association (SMA) and the Institute of Sports and Remedial Massage (ISRM) which are essential for working at an elite level. It also helps if the therapist has a background in rehabilitation and strength and conditioning, which can prove essential in strengthening injuries and preventing them from reoccurring, a minimum of level 3 on the Register of Exercise Professionals (REPS) should be held.

Information into the credibility of all governing bodies and qualifications can be found on the internet and any good therapist will be happy to discuss any injury problems with you without signing you into a treatment package. This is a good opportunity to see if the therapist has a good knowledge base.

Clinical and field based experience

Therapists passionate about their careers tend to be successful in the medical profession. It is good to see that a therapist has hands on experience in both a clinical environment (treatment room) and a field based (football match, etc), as both have different requirements. It is beneficial if the therapist has experienced the difference between the two and can have a clear distinguish between the variance of the different objectives.

Personality

The personality of a sport professional can have a huge impact on the quality of service given. It is essential that you get on well with this person. If you don't like or respect them you can't rely and trust the person to do a good job. A therapist must be honest with you when it counts and have a clear goal of getting you back to a normal working function as quickly and safely as possible without keeping you for unnecessary sessions costing you money.

Is deep tissue massage for me?

There are a few options out there available for treating soft tissue injuries- Mainly sports/remedial massage or physiotherapy.

It tends to come down to personal preference, some people prefer massage therapists, and some people prefer physiotherapists. If you are in doubt talk to the professional that you had in mind and discuss the possible routes that you could choose.