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By Nsim Team
Who is Sports Therapist ?
Sports therapists are those who use a variety of physical techniques and therapies in the rehabilitation and treatment of athletes who are suffering from injuries or illnesses.Many therapists have to supplement their income with other part-time jobs before they become established.
What are the responsibilities of sports therapists ?
- helping to prepare athletes both mentally and physically
- advising about stretching and warming up exercises
- giving massages and applying strapping and taping techniques to provide support
- giving first aid if required
- checking injuries and strappings
- making decisions about whether athletes and players can continue
- examining and assessing injuries
- administering treatment for minor injuries such as bruises, strains and blisters
- referring individuals to appropriate sports and medical practitioners for further treatment
- accompanying injured athletes and players to appointments
- examining and assessing injuries
- providing appropriate treatment
- designing and implementing rehabilitation and detox programmes
- advising about nutrition, diet and lifestyle issues
- collaborating with trainers and coaches on injury prevention programmes.
Typical employers
Most sports therapists are self-employed. Salaried opportunities arise in sports injury clinics, with professional and amateur sports teams or clubs, health and fitness clubs and sports and leisure centres.
Networking and speculative applications are advisable. Participation in a relevant professional association is essential as a useful way of meeting people already working in the area. Advertised vacancies appear in newspapers, local authority vacancy lists, professional and trade publications or online.
Qualifications and training required :
Although you do not technically need a degree to become a sports therapist, in order to become a member of The Society of Sports Therapists it is now compulsory to have an approved degree from one of the society’s partner universities. It is not obligatory to become a member of the society but it is advisable.
Alternative qualifications are available at a range of levels (full or part time), including HND, diplomas and advanced diplomas.
Relevant work experience can also be helpful.
Keys skills for Sports Therapist
- Good interpersonal skills
- Physical fitness
- Conscientious
- Able to form good relationships with people from diverse backgrounds
- Able to deal sensitively with injured clients
- Encouraging and motivating.
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