5 Easy-to-Miss Clues That Your Athlete Needs Physical Therapy

As a volleyball parent, you want to see your athlete thrive—both on and off the court. But what happens when they start complaining about aches and pains, or they’re not performing at their usual level? These might be signs that your athlete could benefit from physical therapy. Addressing potential issues early can make all the difference in keeping them healthy, strong, and confident during the season.

Stronger athletes are not only better performers but also safer players. By understanding the signals that indicate a need for physical therapy, you can help your athlete stay injury-free and excel on the court.

Here are five key signs your volleyball athlete might need physical therapy and how to get the help they need:

1. Persistent Aches and Pains

Minor soreness is normal after intense games or practices, but persistent pain that doesn’t improve with rest could signal something more serious. Common volleyball injuries like jumper’s knee, shoulder pain, or back discomfort often start small but can worsen without proper care.

What to Do: Don’t wait for the pain to get worse. Reach out to a physical therapist who specializes in volleyball-related injuries, like Gwen and her team at HealthWest Physical Therapy. With her background as a high-level volleyball athlete, coach, and physical therapist, Gwen understands exactly what your athlete needs to recover and excel.

2. Decreased Performance on the Court

Has your athlete been struggling to jump as high, move as quickly, or hit with the same power? Decreased performance could indicate underlying issues such as poor jump mechanics, muscle imbalances, or overuse injuries.

What to Do: A physical therapist can assess your athlete’s movement patterns and identify areas for improvement. At HealthWest, Gwen’s 2025 Club Season Athletic Enhancement Program offers small group training specifically tailored for volleyball athletes. The program focuses on improving jump mechanics, building strength, and preventing injuries to help them perform at their best.

If your athlete needs even more personalized attention, consider working with Angel Sprankles-Fakas at HealthWest. Angel provides one-on-one training customized to your athlete’s unique needs. Her expertise in volleyball-specific strength building, endurance training, and injury prevention makes her an invaluable resource for athletes aiming to take their game to the next level. Contact Angel at 760-468-6031 or book a session here.

3. Difficulty Returning After an Injury

If your athlete has recently been sidelined by an injury, returning to play too quickly without proper rehabilitation can increase the risk of re-injury. Whether it’s an ankle sprain, knee pain, or shoulder strain, a gradual and guided recovery process is essential.

What to Do: Schedule a session with Gwen and her team at HealthWest Physical Therapy. They’ll create a personalized recovery plan to safely reintegrate your athlete into training and competition while reducing the risk of future setbacks.

4. Reduced Mobility or Flexibility

Tight muscles, limited range of motion, or stiffness in key areas like the shoulders, hips, and ankles can hinder your athlete’s ability to perform their best. Left unaddressed, these limitations can also lead to compensations and injuries.

What to Do: A physical therapist can guide your athlete through mobility exercises tailored to their sport. Gwen’s expertise ensures that volleyball-specific mobility, hydration, and recovery strategies are prioritized for peak performance. Plus, tools like LightForce Laser Therapy can provide targeted relief and improved mobility.

5. Overtraining or Burnout Symptoms

Does your athlete seem more fatigued than usual or mentally checked out? Overtraining can lead to both physical and emotional burnout, increasing the risk of injury and negatively impacting their love for the sport.

What to Do: Physical therapy isn’t just for injuries; it’s also a proactive way to ensure your athlete’s body is functioning optimally. Programs like the 2025 Club Season Athletic Enhancement Program at HealthWest focus on building mental resilience alongside physical strength, helping your athlete stay motivated and energized throughout the season.

How to Get Help

If any of these signs sound familiar, don’t hesitate to reach out. At HealthWest Physical Therapy, Gwen and her team are dedicated to helping volleyball athletes recover, prevent injuries, and elevate their performance. Here’s how you can connect:

• Contact HealthWest Physical Therapy: Call 760-704-7000 or visit healthwesttherapy.com.
• Join the 2025 Club Season Athletic Enhancement Program: Spaces are still available! Learn more and sign up here.
• Schedule a Free Laser Therapy Consultation: Call 760-704-7000 to learn how LightForce Laser Therapy can accelerate recovery and reduce pain.

Don’t let pain or limitations hold your athlete back. With the right support, they can play harder, recover smarter, and reach their full potential. Take action today!