MHP Physical and Occupational Therapy offers free Sports Injury Assessment Clinics

Mahaska Health Partnership

Oskaloosa – As the school year begins, youth athletics are in full swing. To help young athletes stay healthy, Mahaska Health Partnership Physical and Occupational Therapy offers a free Sports Injury Assessment Clinic.

The free clinics are held Monday mornings from 7 to 8 a.m. during the school year. According to MHP Physical and Occupational Therapy Director Ryan Rowley, PT, the free clinic is open to any area athlete whether they are involved with youth football, volleyball or soccer.

“If the athlete and his or her family are questioning the seriousness of the injury or need some helpful hints on how to more quickly return to play, we can help them answer those questions,” Rowley said.

According to Rowley, during football and volleyball season, the most common injuries are ankle and shoulder injuries. They also assess other injuries including hip and knee problems, low back pain and neck pain and headaches.

“We provide recommendations for self care, or when needed, referral to your primary care physician or a specialist can be arranged. This clinic is a great first step for athletes and parents who are unsure of the seriousness of the injury and would like a free evaluation.

“We provide an assessment of the severity of the injury as well as recommendations to the student, coaches and parents regarding the need for ongoing medical care and the student’s ability to resume participation in sports.”

Rowley said it is important not to pressure the athlete to work through the pain, because if it is a serious injury, it could lead to permanent damage or may lead to problems later in life.

For more information on the Free Sports Injury Assessment Clinic or to find out how MHP Physical and Occupational Therapy is making healthcare personal, please call 641-672-3306.