FAQ: BSc (Hons) Sports Therapy Degree at Plymouth Marjon University

What is Sports Therapy?

Sports Therapy is a healthcare profession that specialises in the prevention, assessment, treatment, and rehabilitation of sports and exercise-related injuries. Sports Therapists use evidence-based practices to help individuals recover from injuries, improve their physical performance, and prevent future injuries. The focus is on restoring optimal function, mobility, and performance through a combination of manual therapy, exercise prescription, and educational guidance.

What is the difference between Sports Therapy and Physiotherapy?

While both Sports Therapists and Physiotherapists work to rehabilitate individuals, there are distinct differences:

Sports Therapists: Specialise in the management of musculoskeletal injuries specifically related to sports and exercise. They focus heavily on exercise-based rehabilitation, injury prevention, and performance enhancement.
Physiotherapists: Have a broader training that includes musculoskeletal, neurological, cardiovascular, and respiratory conditions. Their treatments may involve a wider range of techniques, including manual therapy, electrotherapy, and general physical rehabilitation.

What is our scope of practice?

As Sports Therapists, our scope of practice includes:

Injury Prevention: Implementing strategies and education to prevent sports-related injuries.
Assessment and Diagnosis: Conducting thorough assessments to diagnose sports injuries and conditions.
Treatment and Rehabilitation: Designing and delivering exercise-based rehabilitation programmes tailored to individual needs to promote recovery and enhance performance.
Manual Therapy: Using hands-on techniques to relieve pain, restore function, and improve movement.
Performance Enhancement: Working with athletes to optimise physical performance through tailored conditioning and training programmes.
Return to Sport: Managing the safe and effective return to sport or physical activity after an injury.

What type of patients do we work with?

Sports Therapists typically work with:

Athletes: Ranging from amateur to elite levels, across various sports.
Active Individuals: Those engaged in regular physical activity or exercise who experience injuries.
Recreational Sports Enthusiasts: Individuals participating in recreational sports who need injury management and prevention.
General Population: People seeking to improve physical health, manage injuries, or enhance performance in their daily activities.

Who is STO, our accrediting body?

STO (Sports Therapy Organisation)) is the professional body that accredits our Sports Therapy degree programme. They:

Accredit Degree Programmes: Ensure that educational programmes meet high standards of professional practice.
Maintain a Professional Register: List qualified Sports Therapists who meet ongoing professional development requirements.
Provide Resources and Support: Offer continuing education, networking opportunities, and professional guidance.
Advocate for the Profession: Promote the role and recognition of Sports Therapists within the healthcare system and to the public.