Understanding sports injuries
Sports injuries range from acute incidents, like an ankle sprain or muscle tear, to overuse injuries that build up gradually from training load. Getting the right assessment and treatment early makes a real difference to recovery time and your ability to safely return to sport.
Common causes we see
- Ankle sprains - ligament injuries from rolling or twisting the ankle during sport
- Muscle strains - tears to muscle fibres from sudden sprinting, jumping, or change of direction
- Overuse injuries - gradual-onset pain from training load, such as shin splints or tendinopathy
- Joint injuries - sprains or dislocations affecting the knee, shoulder, or other joints during contact or impact
- Return-to-sport setbacks - ongoing symptoms or reinjury after returning to training too early
How we treat sports injuries at Mi Physio
Every treatment plan starts with a thorough assessment to understand your injury and your sport's specific demands. From there, your physiotherapist builds a plan that may include:
- Hands-on manual therapy to reduce pain and restore movement
- Strapping and taping for support during recovery and return to sport
- A tailored exercise and strengthening programme
- Movement and biomechanics assessment specific to your sport
- A structured, staged return-to-sport plan to reduce reinjury risk
When to see a physio for a sports injury
It's worth booking an assessment if you're experiencing:
- Pain or swelling that hasn't settled within a few days
- A joint that feels unstable, weak, or won't bear full weight
- Pain that's affecting your training or performance
- A previous injury that keeps recurring
Common questions
Do I need a referral to see a physio for a sports injury?
No referral is necessary. Physiotherapists are first-contact practitioners, so you can book directly for assessment and treatment.
Is sports injury physiotherapy covered by ACC?
Most sports injuries are covered by ACC. We'll help you with the claims process as part of your first visit.
How many sessions will I need?
This depends on the nature and severity of your injury. Your physiotherapist will discuss an expected treatment and return-to-sport timeline after your initial assessment.
