Pls help! Injured surfer has 3 wks until comp

[pure-vitality]

Hi,

I'm a sports massage therapist, currently treating a pro-surfer who sustained a pretty bad groin strain about 5 weeks ago. His recovery/rehabilitation is going okay. I've been using a combination of resistance, strengthening techniques as well as massage to help the area. In the last week I feel he's started doing a bit too much too soon (as most athletes do). My issue is that yesterday he told me he has a competition in 3 weeks and wants to be fit. He's willing to use me as much as he needs to get through it.

It's my first case where a "pro-athlete" is involved, so don't want to get it wrong! Any help or experience is gratefully received - Thanks!!

[NicholaReid]

Hi there. I get the feeling that you feel it would be better for this guy to not compete in three weeks time, as I assume he will do himself more damage? It's a lovely compliment when a client puts so much trust in your skills to heal them, but sometimes they also need to listen to your advice as well. After all, YOU are the expert in this situation. Plus, along side therapy, TIME is the greatest healer. If you really feel that it is too soon for him to compete safely, tell him. He will respect your opinion in the long run and you will feel better about your self, Nic

[biggazfromlincoln]

Originally Posted by NicholaReid

Hi there. I get the feeling that you feel it would be better for this guy to not compete in three weeks time, as I assume he will do himself more damage? It's a lovely compliment when a client puts so much trust in your skills to heal them, but sometimes they also need to listen to your advice as well. After all, YOU are the expert in this situation. Plus, along side therapy, TIME is the greatest healer. If you really feel that it is too soon for him to compete safely, tell him. He will respect your opinion in the long run and you will feel better about your self, Nic

HI Nicola,
sorry to disagree with you, but nothing in the original posts tells me that there is an expert, on the contrary, "this is my first pro athlete" and "I dont want to get it wrong" say the opposite.
So with respect to pure vitality, this is the ideal opportunity to say " Ive done what I can" and refer to another professional.

Sports massage is an important skill in rehabilitation however there are more analytical skills that may need to be employed to help the athlete achieve their goal
regards
BGFL