Boxing is considered by many to be the ultimate test of physical and mental stamina in sport. As a result, fighters are also proportionately more susceptible to a number of chronic and acute injuries. Moreover, they cannot step foot in the ring until these injuries are addressed. The risk is simply too high. This makes ongoing physiotherapy an essential part of injury recovery and prevention. Below is a succinct breakdown of why physical therapy for boxers should become an essential part of any training regime.
3 Ways Physiotherapy Can Help Boxers Improve Performance While Preventing and Treating Common Injuries
Treatment for Common Injuries Suffered by Boxers
Beyond “surface” injuries such as bruises and lacerations, boxers suffer a number of musculoskeletal injuries. The most common among them include the following:
- Fractures to the hand, wrist, jaw, nose and ribs
- Sprains and strains
- Elbow tendonitis
- Shoulder dislocation
All of these can effectively be rehabilitated via physiotherapy treatments, including massage therapy, acupuncture and IMS, and other methods included on the sports injury and rehab physiotherapy. Furthermore, regular physiotherapy will be instrumental in mitigating the risk of further injury. Prevention is the key to maintaining your place in the ring.
Concussion Management
Nearly 90-percent of boxers suffer a brain injury of during their career. Ninety percent is a startling statistic, which is why we separated concussions from the other common injuries sustained by boxers. What many don’t know, is that a full service physiotherapy clinic may have a concussion specialist on staff, who specializes in treating traumatic brain injury/concussion and other neurological conditions. Finding a clinic that offers traditional physiotherapy services and concussion rehabilitation in the same environment will streamline your between-bout recovery program.
Improve Your Footwork
Regular physiotherapy can directly improve your stance and movement in the ring, namely by correcting issues that may impact your balance. Logically, balance is integral to getting off on the right foot when it comes to your footwork. A physiotherapist can address underlying issues with your gait, and may identify the need for corrective orthotic inserts in your boxing shoes. In addition, a physiotherapist will uncover vestibular concerns that could contribute to vertigo and dizziness, either of which can swiftly end one’s amateur or professional boxing career. Learn more about how physiotherapy can be directly applied to improve your balance and footwork.
Before you step foot in the ring for another bout, be sure to book a consultation with your local physiotherapist. If you reside in the Greater Vancouver area, contact our Burnaby physiotherapy clinic to set up an appointment. Call us at 604.558.2273 today.