 Rehabilitation can take a long time depending on the injury.  A doctor or physiotherapist should supervise the process.  Rehabilitation aims to: - Restore function to the injured area. - Return athlete quickly and safely to competition. - Prevent re-injury. - Glue in figure 19.1 pg: 335 PDHPE Application and Inquiry

 As pain and swelling subside, slow movement through the range of motion should be carried out to promote elasticity in the scar tissue and enhance recovery time.  Joint mobilisation can be achieved through passive and active exercises that are gradually increased over time.

 STRETCHING  Controlled static and PNF stretching further promote elasticity of the scar tissue and increase the likelihood of returning to peak flexibility.  Passive stretching with machines or a partner is also very common in rehabilitation.

 Stretching enhances rehabilitation as it: - Reduces muscle tension - Increases circulation - Increases muscle and tendon length - Increases the range of motion.

 Strength and conditioning of the injured area and surrounding body parts must be developed to reduce muscle atrophy and for support and performance reasons.  Isometric exercises are used when there is no movement at the joint.  As movement at the joint increases isotonic and isokinetic exercises using further resistance can be introduced as they will develop strength through a full range of movement.

 Body parts and fitness components unaffected by the injury should be maintained throughout the recovery process.  As recovery improves, activities that could not be done can be gradually incorporated.

 Flexibility, strength and endurance need to be promoted with activities that are specific to your sport.  This total body fitness will depend on the injury. Equipment for total body fitness include: treadmills, rowing/cycling machines, swimming/water resistance activites, weight training, walking or light jogging.

 Eg: when recovery from an ankle injury, upper body strength can still be maintained with resistance training with no load being placed on the ankle. Once recovery has begun jogging at a slow pace can be performed and gradually the speed increased to further develop the strength in the ankle region.

 An athlete who has finished a treatment and rehabilitation program is not ready to return to full competition.  If the athlete were to return to competition at this stage there would be significant risk of re-injury because specific game skills, movement skills and confidence have not be re-established.

 A period of time devoted to normal training before returning to competition is essential. This promotes a return of specific movement patterns, coordination and skills.  A graduated sport specific program will allow the athlete to develop the physical and psychological skills required for competition. Some athletes may ask to play at a lower level.

 Heat, cold, pressure and electrical stimulation are delivered by ice, hot packs or machines such as ultra sounds.  They are used to break down pain, muscle spasm, increase blood flow.  Heat or cold is dependent on the type of injury.  Glue in figure Outcomes 2 pg:451

 What is heat and cold used for?  What are the bodies response to heat and cold?  Complete Inquiry Activities ‘Use of Heat and Cold’ and ‘Rehabilitation of Sports injury’ pg: 451 Outcomes 2  Practical Application – Rehabilitation program pg: 339 PDHPE Application and Inquiry is set out in a more structured way.