Sports therapy uses a range of therapeutic techniques for the prevention, recognition and treatment of minor sports injuries. It can also be used to provide support with people wanting to maintain and improve fitness.

A typical session will involve appraising the injury using a number of techniques including posture analysis, gait analysis, biomechanical assessment, as well as soft tissue assessment. The session itself may include soft tissue therapy, mechanical and electrical treatment, cooling or warming therapy and mobilisation.

Sports therapy may be used to address an extensive range of injuries. Sports therapy may also be found to be helpful in the mental preparation of athletes for sporting participation.

It is important to choose a qualified sports therapist who has undertaken all the necessary training to understand the theory and practice of this therapy area. The Complementary & Natural Healthcare Council (CNHC) is accredited by the Professional Standards Authority to maintain a register of suitably qualified Sports Therapists.

You can check whether a sports therapist is registered with the CNHC by searching the register at www.cnhc.org.uk. By choosing sports therapists registered with the CNHC you can be confident that they are properly trained, qualified and insured.