Dealing with athletes of all levels and ages, sports therapists help their clients operate at peak performance. Their remit can be wide ranging, but in general, sport therapists operate by offering advice and hands-on help with injury prevention and rehabilitation.
To this end, sports therapists use a varied pallet of treatments including:
First aid
Taping
Manipulation
Massage
Heat treatment
Electrotherapy
Hydrotherapy
Ultrasound
Therapeutic exercise
Acupuncture
As interest in sporting performance grows, there is more and more demand for sports therapists. Opportunities can be found in a variety of locations, including private practice, in health and fitness clubs, leisure centres, and even with sporting associations or clubs. There are also opportunities to specialise in a particular activity, or a particular aspect of the field, such as rehabilitation. There is also some work to be found abroad, in countries which recognize British certifications.
As a guideline, the NHS salary for a newly qualified practitioner is between ?18,000 and ?21,000, with senior practitioners making from ?20,00 to ?28,000, and consultants up to ?50,000. Typically, earnings in the private sector are in line with those in the NHS.
For more information on training and careers in this field, contact the following:
NHS Learning and Development Service
SkillsActive
Association of Chartered Physiotherapists in Sports Medicine
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