Return to sport assessment
A structured, criteria-based review of whether you are ready to return to your sport after injury, surgery, or concussion. The decision is grounded in objective testing and time, not just calendar weeks.
Return to sport is a decision, not a date. The strongest return-to-play frameworks combine objective testing, time since injury, and a structured progression of training load. Specialist review brings those threads together and gives you, your physiotherapist, and your coach a clear answer.
When this review helps
- You are returning from a significant injury (ACL reconstruction, hamstring tear, ankle ligament injury, shoulder dislocation)
- You have had a concussion and your sport requires medical clearance
- You are on a return-to-sport progression and want a milestone review
- You have re-injured yourself and want to make sure the return is right this time
- Your sport, code, or team requires a specialist sign-off before competition
What is assessed
The framework adapts to the injury. For a knee injury, that includes strength symmetry, hop testing, change-of-direction performance, and sport-specific movement quality. For a concussion, it includes symptom stability, vestibular-ocular function, and exercise tolerance.
- Time since injury or surgery
- Objective strength and functional tests appropriate to the injury
- Sport-specific movement testing
- Psychological readiness, often overlooked but a major predictor of re-injury
- Recent training load and tolerance
- Sport-specific protocol requirements (rugby, AFL, soccer, others)
Where another practitioner has done the testing, those results are reviewed rather than repeated.
Return after concussion
Most sport-specific protocols require medical clearance before resumption of contact training and competition. The graduated return-to-sport progression has six stages. Final clearance is not given until you have completed full-contact training symptom-free at the required time interval. See concussion management for the full protocol.
After the assessment
You leave with a written summary that names where you sit on the return-to-sport progression, what is still needed if the answer is "not yet", and a clear plan if the answer is "yes". The summary can be sent to your coach and the medical staff of your team or sport with your consent.
Common questions
Is one assessment enough?
Sometimes. For more involved injuries, a brief follow-up may be useful to track progression.
Will you contact my surgeon or physio?
Yes, with your consent. Coordination with the practitioners managing you is part of the work.
What if I am not ready?
The summary names the specific milestones still to be met and a sensible timeline to get there.
