Physiotherapists and Sports Therapists have many similarities but also some differences -I’m pleased to say that we have both here at Thorpes Physiotherapy! Both aim to help people recover from injuries and improve physical function. A Sports therapist specialises in diagnosing, treating, preventing, and rehabilitating injuries, not dissimilar to a Physiotherapist. However, a Sports Therapist is limited to treating those with musculoskeletal conditions or injuries, usually athletes or active individuals but not limited to. A Physiotherapist on the other hand, has a wider scope of practice across musculoskeletal (including Injection Therapy which we offer at Thorpes), cardiorespiratory, and neurological conditions (like our sister company Thorpes Neuro Rehab). Physiotherapists have a protected title and are regulated across the world, a Sports Therapist however, is only protected in some countries, not all.
A Shared Goal
Both health care professionals have shared goals in order to treat people, patients and athletes, whether its a sprained ankle or post op Ligament Reconstruction, both utilise exercise and therapy to get you moving again.
Assessment and Diagnosis – both use physical assessment and movement analysis to determine the causes and the extent of injury.
Rehabilitation – Both aim to restore movement and function after injury.
Injury prevention – Education, movement technique, and training to avoid future injuries.
Manual Therapy and other Treatment Modalities – Hands-on treatment such as massage, joint mobilisations, ultrasound, electrotherapy, or taping in order to aid the healing process.
Exercise Prescription – Tailored programmes to regain strength, flexibility and functional movement.
The two professions may often share a workspace or work together in a multidisciplinary team (like at Thorpes). Sometimes they may share care plans for individuals; a physiotherapist may handle post-op recovery and the sports therapist may manage a return to sport strategy.
Key Differences
A big differentiation between the two health care professionals is due to the qualification and title. A Physiotherapist requires a degree (BSc or MSc) in Physiotherapy and must be registered with a regulatory body (HCPC in the UK). A Sports Therapist requires a degree in Sports Therapy (BSc or MSc) and is accredited by the Society of Sports Therapists (SST). They can often see patient’s within the private healthcare sector. You may see a Sports Therapist regarding musculoskeletal injury; including functional assessment and guided rehabilitation, or performance based rehabilitation. If you had private medical insurance, you would need to check with your provider to see if Sports Therapy is covered (Physiotherapy almost certainly will be)
To conclude, both healthcare professionals have the qualifications and the ability to specialise in helping individuals suffering with musculoskeletal conditions or injuries. Both share common ground and an overlap in their training, only their scope of practice may differ.
If you are struggling with a painful problem and would like to see either a Physiotherapist or Sports Therapist at Thorpes, please get in touch. You can book online by clicking the button below or give the clinic a call on 01276 37670
Warm regards
Amy Cogdon
Sports Therapist (including Massage and Exercise Therapy)