Description
In this informative presentation, Cathy Barrett, a shoulder physiotherapy specialist with over 20 years of experience, discusses the critical aspects of safely returning elite adolescent athletes to play following episodes of glenohumeral instability. Emphasizing the importance of performance restoration rather than mere participation, Cathy outlines several key considerations in the rehabilitation process, including comprehensive assessments of range of motion, muscular strength, and the biomechanical attributes necessary for each sport.
Cathy elaborates on the functional adaptations observed in athletes, particularly those engaged in overhead sports, and highlights the paramount importance of understanding the dynamics of shoulder joint function, scapular mechanics, and the subtleties of strength training methodologies. She presents a thorough approach to developing an individualized rehabilitation plan that accommodates the unique demands of sports like rugby, tennis, swimming, and water polo, reflecting on specific training protocols for strength and explosive movements needed for competitive contexts.
Cathy details the necessity of rigorous testing to warrant athletes' readiness for return to play, referencing innovations such as handheld monitors and normative data for strength assessments. She introduces a battery of evaluations, including Margie Olds' Shoulder Arm Return to Sport Tests (SARTS) and covers suggested thresholds for measuring athlete fatigue and setting return criteria based on comprehensive sports-specific data.
Throughout the discussion, Cathy emphasizes building physical and psychological readiness, integrating strategies to foster confidence and handle fears of re-injury. The presentation culminates with practical insights into structuring progressive return-to-play protocols and ensuring athletes meet precise performance parameters while maintaining a focus on recovery and comprehensive rehabilitation.