The Prevention Mindset in Sports Medicine

Reactive sports medicine treats injuries after they occur. Proactive sports medicine identifies and addresses risk factors before injury strikes. The physiotherapy assessment provides the blueprint for prevention.

Functional Movement Screening

The Functional Movement Screen (FMS) identifies movement asymmetries and mobility limitations that increase injury risk. High-risk patterns — particularly asymmetric deep squat and active straight leg raise — predict injury 2–4x more than baseline.

Load Management Principles

The acute:chronic workload ratio (ACWR) measures how current training load compares to recent trends. A ratio above 1.5 (sudden load spike) is associated with a 3–6x increase in injury risk. Progressive overload, not sudden increases, is the key.

Neuromuscular Training Programs

Hamstring strengthening (Nordic curls), landing mechanics training, single-leg stability exercises, and balance board work address the neuromuscular risk factors for ACL, ankle, and hamstring injuries.