How to Find the Right Athletic Recovery Center for You: A Guide

May 12, 2022

Are you wondering what you might need to consider when choosing the right sports therapy center for you? Learn more here.



Did you know that only approximately 50% of Americans meet physical activity requirements outlined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention? Only one-quarter of Americans meet requirements for both aerobic and strength training guidelines. 

How do you find the right athletic recovery center for you?

Suppose you fall into that latter percentage - congratulations! Whether you're working your way into that requirement or nail it each week, you may be all too familiar with sports injuries and how long sports recovery can take. Injuries can set you back from meeting goals and maintaining good health. 

So, where do you turn when you have an injury or when you want to prevent future ones? Luckily, we have put together a complete guide on what to look for in a sports medicine clinic and what to expect, so keep reading for more information!


What Is Sports Medicine? 

Sports medicine is a healthcare branch dedicated to preventing and treating injuries related to fitness, physical activities, and sports. While some may think of it as only for professional athletes, it is widely available to the general public. Part of the sports medicine team could include: 

  • Physicians
  • Physical therapists
  • Athletic trainers
  • Nutritionists
  • And more

These healthcare professionals have added expertise and training in treating, preventing, and working with active individuals. You don't need to be training for a triathlon. Even weekend warriors can benefit from seeing a certified professional.


What Is Sports Physical Therapy?

Under sports medicine, you have physical therapy. They help with sports recovery programs and are trained professionals that address:

  • Mobility
  • Strength
  • Balance
  • Range of motion

Physical therapists can specialize in many fields, and those in the sports physical therapy field often have a high level of expertise regarding various musculoskeletal injuries. Some may have a background in athletic training, or you might see athletic trainers working with physical therapists to help you recover from injury. 


A sports injury is any type of injury that occurs while training, prepping, or playing in various activities or athletic events. Here are some of the more common sports injuries that physical therapists treat:

  • Ligament tears
  • Muscle strains
  • Bursitis
  • Concussion
  • Arthritis


During a physical therapist evaluation, they will assess your strength, movement, and pain. At this point, they may discuss your level of activity and goals with you. Most patients want to return to a high level of function, so these professionals are equipped with the best knowledge and tools to help you meet your short and long term goals. 


Injury Recovery Phases

There are two main types of injuries: acute and chronic. Acute are relatively easy to identify. For example, you jump up to grab a rebound in your weekly basketball game and come down on your ankle sideways. 


You may feel it turn and give way underneath you, leading to sharp pain on the side of your ankle and foot - a classic ankle sprain. It may be painful to walk on, and you could start developing bruising and swelling. Immediately after an injury, it is essential that you follow the R.I.C.E. protocol, which stands for:

  • Rest
  • Ice 
  • Compression
  • Elevation


The goal of R.I.C.E. is to help manage the inflammation and reduce pain. Physical therapists might perform soft tissue massages, use ice compressors, or try some gentle range of motion. 

Once the acute phase of injury is over, strength, balance, and coordination are the goal. You will gradually work your way up in levels of difficulty. It is crucial that during this phase, you keep in constant communication with your physical therapist or rehab professional regarding pain or discomfort since you don't want to risk reinjury and start the process over.


Lastly, you will begin the return-to-sport phase. This is the most exciting part of rehabilitation since it involves mimicking activities and movements you would typically perform. 

Let's go back to the basketball player example. Following an ankle sprain, you'll eventually need to learn speed, quick turns, acceleration, and deceleration. You might also need to build your strength with jumping, balance, and coordination. 


Chronic Injuries

Chronic injuries are more challenging to deal with. They include overuse injuries where they may not be a definitive cause. Tendinitis is the most obvious example, and many overhead athletes, such as tennis or baseball players, can develop it in their elbow or shoulder. 

Unfortunately, chronic injuries lead to chronic pain, which affects over 25 million adults in the United States. It is a type of pain that lasts longer than three months and can impact your participation in exercise, athletic events, and even daily tasks. 


One of the main treatment options for chronic pain is physical therapy. They can use interventions to help support joints, improve function, and alleviate pain. 


How Long Does Injury Recovery Take?

Injury recovery primarily depends on the type and severity of the injury. Surgical interventions will often require a longer recovery period since physical therapists must follow specific surgical protocols. For example, nearly 350,000 people tear their ACL and require surgery each year. 

ACL reconstruction is immediately followed by an intensive round of physical therapy that can last weeks to months. Return to sport timelines from ACLs has extended from nine months to almost two years. Why does it take so long to recover? 

  • Ensuring proper joint mechanics
  • Proprioception
  • Adequate strength

In some studies, delaying when you return to sport following an ACL reconstruction can reduce your risk of reinjury by over 50 percent! Physical therapists play a critical role in how soon you can return. When looking for a clinic, you want professionals who help take the guesswork and potential reinjury out of the equation. 


What Do Sports Medicine Professionals Use?

If you've never visited a physical therapist or sports medicine professional before, you may be curious about what they use that can help you improve strength and function. Many physical therapists use manual therapy. 

They can have you perform various movements and test your muscle strength or measure your range of motion. They put your values against standard measures based on gender, age, and activity level. 

This helps give them a better idea of where you stand and what you need to work on. Let's go back to the ACL injury example. 


Females are almost eight times more likely to tear their ACLs than males. Why? Researchers believe that there are five main factors involved:

  • Genetics
  • Hormonal
  • Environmental 
  • Biomechanics
  • Anatomy


Studies are showing that ACL injuries are more related to biomechanics than fatigue. Almost two-thirds of female ACL injuries during soccer happened in the first half of the match. Sports medicine specialists can help prevent these injuries through:


  • Addressing biomechanical deficiencies
  • Strength deficits
  • Using plyometrics
  • Using agility drills
  • Teaching landing techniques
  • Improving proprioception

Including sport-specific activities can make the interventions more applicable to your injury-prevention case. Your next sports medicine clinic should specialize in these common sports injuries rehabilitation. 


Preventing Injuries

Wouldn't it be nice if you didn't have to worry about lengthy and tedious recovery times following an injury? Specialty prevention programs are part of a new term: prehabilitation. Physical therapists have emphasized the importance of prehabilitation regarding surgical outcomes, injury prevention, and more. 


In a systemic review, researchers looked at prehabilitation and outcomes following cancer surgery. It included exercises that targeted the entire body and respiratory system.

Nutrition and psychology were also included in some of the care. Experts found that prehabilitation helped improve:

  • Functional capacity
  • Reduced hospital stay


When it comes to sports injuries, you don't want to wait for an injury to catch up with you. Campus Motion focuses on physical therapy and wellness services, including:

  • Concierge sports medicine
  • Athletic Performance and Injury Prevention 
  • Sports recovery and return to sport
  • Wellness


During concierge sports medicine and injury prevention tests, you can find exactly where your weak points are. You can modify activities the right way that helps you reduce injury risk and improve performance. If you deal with nagging injuries that aren't enough to keep you away from playing your sport, concierge sports medicine helps you treat them effectively the first go around. 


Benefits of Campus Motion Advantage

Current health systems emphasize treating severely sick or injured individuals. It often neglects those who still live active lifestyles or have minor injuries keeping them down. 

Even if you end up going in, you could pay hundreds or thousands in unnecessary and expensive tests and visits. Campus Motion Advantage seeks to provide you with one on one care you deserve. Whether you have had a previous injury or not, the plan includes:


  • Mobile services
  • Bundled wellness programs
  • Transparent injury risks
  • Return to sport guidelines

Our providers are engaged and highly qualified to deliver research-based evidence for injury recovery and prevention. 


Find Your Sports Recovery Clinic

Now that you know what to look for in a sports recovery and medical clinic, it's time to get to work! At Campus Motion, we have physical therapists and wellness professionals that help with prehabilitation, return to sport training and whole-body health. 

The ultimate goal is to keep you active and healthy without setbacks. Whether you've had bad experiences in the past with injury recovery, we help the process go smoothly by offering mobile clinics, group packages, and individual sessions. 

Check out our website to learn more about us and how to get scheduled!

Sleep 101 Continued: Understanding Circadian Rhythms & Hormones

By Okon Antia, PT, DPT, OCS, SCS, CSCS, PN1-SSR • December 29, 2024
The Biological Clock Within Us Circadian rhythms are the 24-hour cycles that regulate our biology. These rhythms help organize our physiological processes in response to light and dark. Whether you're a LinkedIn professional or a marathon runner, understanding and aligning with these natural cycles can make a world of difference to your productivity and health. The Central Master Clock: The Suprachiasmatic Nucleus At the heart of our circadian rhythms is the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN), located in the hypothalamus. This central clock coordinates with peripheral clocks in each of our cells and specific organs, such as: Lung clock Kidney clock Heart clock Skin clock These clocks are synchronized by light-dark signals transmitted through our eyes to ensure our body functions in harmony. The Role of Circadian Rhythms Circadian rhythms are natural, internal processes that regulate the sleep-wake cycle and repeat roughly every 24 hours. They influence a myriad of bodily functions, including: Hormone release Eating habits Digestion Body temperature Sleep patterns Disrupting these rhythms can lead to poor sleep quality, which impacts both physical and mental health. The Impact on Your Life Sleep Quality Consistent disruption can lead to insomnia, poor sleep quality, and other sleep disorders. Quality sleep is essential for recovery, cognitive function, and overall health. Physical Health Misaligned circadian rhythms can contribute to chronic health issues such as obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and weakened immune function. Mental Health Poor sleep quality can negatively impact mental health, leading to issues such as depression, anxiety, and cognitive decline. Cortisol: The Natural Alarm Clock Cortisol helps us free up stored energy overnight. Here’s how it works: Evening: Cortisol levels decrease slightly. Early Morning: Levels increase a few hours before we wake up. Awakening: Cortisol peaks, providing the boost needed to get out of bed. The cortisol awakening response is crucial for that early morning energy. Waking up unexpectedly early, before cortisol rises, can leave us feeling especially groggy. Melatonin: The Sleep Hormone Melatonin increases sleep drive at night and keeps us asleep throughout. Its production is dependent on darkness and follows this cycle: Evening: Melatonin production increases. Midnight: Peaks at about midnight. Morning: Falls to its lowest level until the evening. Photoreceptors in our retinas play a key role by transmitting light signals to the SCN, affecting melatonin levels. Final Thoughts Understanding your circadian rhythms and hormones like cortisol and melatonin can significantly improve your sleep quality, physical health, and mental well-being. For professionals, getting aligned with these natural cycles is not just a health matter; it’s a productivity booster. Embrace your biological clock, and watch your performance soar! About Campus Motion Health Lab Campus Motion is a cutting edge biohacking health optimization lab and wellness center utilizing the latest technological solutions to enhance the health of corporate and community populations. We focus on optimization of these aspects of health: Sleep Health, Brain Health, Movement Health, Metabolic Health, and Recovery Health and are located in the Cypress suburb of Houston, TX. We also provide consultation services to organizations, teams, and schools across the country. Reach out to us if you are interested in improving the overall health of your organization or team!

Sleep 101 Continued: Understanding Brainwaves Throughout the Night

By Okon Antia, PT, DPT, OCS, SCS, CSCS, PN1-SSR • December 29, 2024
The Intricate Dance of Brainwaves: From Wakefulness to Dreamland Sleep: it's an essential yet often elusive part of our daily routine. For professionals, understanding the nuances of sleep can enhance productivity, mental well-being, and overall health. Let's take a journey through the different stages of sleep and the brainwaves that accompany them. Awake: The Realm of Beta Waves When you first go to bed, you likely start by: -Climbing into bed -Getting comfortable -Turning out the lights At this early stage, you're still awake, and your brain is busy producing beta waves. High levels of beta waves have been linked to insomnia, making it difficult for some people to fall or stay asleep. Deep Relaxation: Embracing Alpha Waves Once the lights are off and you're sinking into your soft, cushiony nest with a happy sigh, your brain activity shifts. Your breathing slows, and you become hyper-aware of your surroundings. Although you're not fully asleep, you're in a state of deep relaxation, characterized by alpha waves. Daydreaming and mental imagery can increase alpha wave activity. Snapping out of a relaxed state when someone calls your attention decreases alpha wave activity. As you edge closer to sleep, alpha waves begin to disappear. Deep Sleep: The World of Delta Waves As you drift further into the depths of sleep, your brain transitions to delta waves, reminiscent of slow, rolling surf waves. This stage, known as "slow-wave sleep" (SWS), is marked by: -Slow, measured, and synchronized neural activity -A clear visual signature in EEG readings Delta waves signify a deep, restorative sleep, crucial for physical and mental recovery. Dreaming: The Theater of Theta Waves Once you're soundly asleep, your brain switches things up, guiding you through a spectrum of imaginative, and sometimes bizarre, dreamscapes. Theta waves dominate this stage of sleep, especially during dreaming. Theta waves are also present in lighter stages of sleep. The amount of theta waves can influence how well you remember your dreams or nightmares. Harnessing the Power of Sleep Understanding the intricate dance of brainwaves during sleep can empower professionals to optimize their rest and, by extension, their waking productivity. By recognizing the stages of sleep and the brainwaves involved, you can take proactive steps to improve your sleep hygiene and overall well-being. About Campus Motion Health Lab  Campus Motion is a cutting edge biohacking health optimization lab and wellness center utilizing the latest technological solutions to enhance the health of corporate and community populations. We focus on optimization of these aspects of health: Sleep Health, Brain Health, Movement Health, Metabolic Health, and Recovery Health and are located in the Cypress suburb of Houston, TX. We also provide consultation services to organizations, teams, and schools across the country. Reach out to us if you are interested in improving the overall health of your organization or team!

Sleep 101: Understanding Stages & Cycles

By Okon Antia, PT, DPT, OCS, SCS, CSCS, PN1-SSR • December 29, 2024
In a world driven by deadlines and digital devices, sleep often takes a backseat for many professionals. Yet, understanding the intricate dance of sleep stages and cycles can be a game-changer for enhancing productivity and emotional well-being. The Enigma of Sleep Stages The journey into the world of slumber begins with Non-REM (NREM) sleep, which is divided into distinct stages: N1: The Gateway to Sleep This stage is an extremely light sleep, lasting just 1 to 7 minutes. It’s the kind of sleep where if someone wakes you, you might insist, "Hey, I was watching that!" The transition into sleep is a gradual dimming of consciousness, much like a building superintendent turning off multiple switches. N2: The Steadfast Guardian Lasting about 10 to 25 minutes, N2 is marked by relaxation and memory consolidation. During this stage, your heart rate slows, and body temperature drops. N3: The Deep Restorer Known as slow-wave sleep (SWS), N3 is where your body undergoes profound restoration. Muscle tone decreases, and tissue growth and repair occur, making it the most restful part of sleep. REM Sleep: The Dream Weaver This stage is characterized by vivid dreams and the iconic rapid eye movements. REM sleep accounts for 20% to 25% of total sleep and is crucial for emotional processing and memory consolidation. The Rhythms of the Sleep Cycle A typical sleep cycle is a fascinating interplay of stages, beginning with N1 and progressing through N2 and N3, before culminating in REM sleep. Each cycle lasts between 70 to 120 minutes, repeating several times a night. Early Night Cycles : Dominated by N3 deep sleep, essential for physical recovery. Later Cycles: Marked by longer periods of REM sleep, vital for emotional and mental rejuvenation. A balanced sleep cycle is essential for waking up refreshed and ready to tackle the challenges of the day. Deep sleep rejuvenates the body, while REM sleep sharpens the mind. By recognizing the importance of each sleep stage and cycle, professionals can harness the power of sleep to elevate both their personal and professional lives. About Campus Motion Health Lab Campus Motion is a cutting edge biohacking health optimization lab and wellness center utilizing the latest technological solutions to enhance the health of corporate and community populations. We focus on optimization of these aspects of health: Sleep Health, Brain Health, Movement Health, Metabolic Health, and Recovery Health and are located in the Cypress suburb of Houston, TX. We also provide consultation services to organizations, teams, and schools across the country. Reach out to us if you are interested in improving the overall health of your organization or team!
Woman on PEMF Mat

PEMF Therapy Benefits and Influence on Health Explained

By Okon Antia, PT, DPT, OCS, SCS, CSCS • August 24, 2024
Pulsed Electromagnetic Field (PEMF) therapy has gained significant attention in recent years as a holistic approach to health and wellness. This innovative therapy utilizes electromagnetic fields to promote healing, reduce pain, and enhance overall well-being. In this blog post, we will explore what PEMF therapy is, how it works, its benefits, and the conditions it may help treat. Understanding PEMF Therapy PEMF therapy involves the use of low-frequency electromagnetic waves that are pulsed at specific intervals. These waves penetrate the body’s tissues and cells, stimulating biological processes that can lead to improved health outcomes. The therapy is non-invasive and painless, making it an appealing option for those seeking alternative treatments. The concept of using electromagnetic fields for healing dates back to the early 20th century. However, advancements in technology have made PEMF therapy more accessible and effective than ever before. Today, devices ranging from portable units to large mats are available for both clinical and home use. How Does PEMF Therapy Work? At its core, PEMF therapy works by influencing the electrical activity of cells in the body. Every cell has a natural electric charge that can be disrupted by various factors such as stress, injury, or illness. When these charges become imbalanced, cellular function can decline. PEMF therapy helps restore this balance by delivering pulsed electromagnetic fields that stimulate cellular repair processes. The therapy enhances circulation and oxygenation in tissues while promoting detoxification. Additionally, it encourages the production of ATP (adenosine triphosphate), which is essential for energy transfer within cells. Mechanisms of Action Cellular Communication : PEMF therapy enhances intercellular communication by facilitating ion exchange across cell membranes. Inflammation Reduction : The electromagnetic pulses can decrease inflammation by modulating inflammatory cytokines. Pain Relief : By improving blood flow and reducing inflammation, PEMF therapy can alleviate pain associated with various conditions. Tissue Repair : The stimulation provided by PEMF encourages tissue regeneration and repair processes. Benefits of PEMF Therapy PEMF therapy offers a wide range of potential benefits that make it an attractive option for individuals seeking alternative or complementary treatments: 1 . Pain Management One of the most well-documented uses of PEMF therapy is pain relief. Studies have shown that it can effectively reduce chronic pain conditions such as arthritis, fibromyalgia, and lower back pain without the side effects often associated with pharmaceutical medications. 2. Enhanced Recovery Athletes frequently utilize PEMF therapy to speed up recovery after intense workouts or injuries. By promoting better circulation and reducing muscle soreness, athletes can return to their training regimens more quickly. 3. Improved Sleep Quality Many users report improved sleep quality after undergoing PEMF sessions. The relaxation response triggered by the treatment may help regulate sleep patterns and reduce insomnia symptoms. 4. Stress Reduction PEMF therapy has been shown to lower stress levels by promoting relaxation and enhancing mood through increased serotonin production. 5. Support for Bone Healing Research suggests that PEMF may aid in bone healing following fractures or surgeries by stimulating osteoblast activity (bone-forming cells). Conditions Treated with PEMF Therapy While research on PEMF therapy is still ongoing, many practitioners have found success using it for various conditions: Chronic Pain : Conditions like arthritis or neuropathic pain. Injuries : Sprains, strains, fractures. Sleep Disorders : Insomnia or restless leg syndrome. Stress-Related Issues : Anxiety or depression. Circulatory Problems : Poor blood flow or varicose veins. Safety Considerations PEMF therapy is generally considered safe when used appropriately; however, individuals with certain medical devices (like pacemakers) should consult their healthcare provider before starting treatment due to potential interference with electronic devices. Conclusion PEMF therapy represents a promising avenue for those seeking relief from various ailments without resorting to invasive procedures or pharmaceuticals. By harnessing the power of pulsed electromagnetic fields to promote healing at a cellular level, this innovative approach offers numerous benefits ranging from pain management to enhanced recovery times.  As research continues to unfold regarding its efficacy across different health conditions, many individuals are turning towards this holistic treatment as part of their wellness journey—making it an exciting area worth exploring further if you’re looking for alternative therapies that align with your health goals. If you're considering trying out PEMF therapy yourself or want more information about how it could fit into your wellness routine—consulting with a healthcare professional who specializes in integrative medicine could be your next step toward better health!
Man undergoing Kinetisense

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By Okon Antia, PT, DPT, OCS, SCS, CSCS • June 14, 2024
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Cryotherapy and redlight therapy chamber for Biohacking

Biohack Your Body Composition

By Okon Antia, PT, DPT, OCS, SCS, CSCS • June 2, 2024
Burning fat, losing weight, and gaining muscle can feel like an overwhelming challenge. Many people have tried various ways to accomplish the above to no avail. Either they can't accomplish it at all or they can but can't maintain it long term. What if there was a better, smarter, less publicized way to shed those stubborn pounds and inches? Here are some examples of biohacking services that can boost your metabolism and fat burn: Resting Metabolic Rate Testing: determine how many calories your body needs to burn fat, lose weight, and gain muscle in a healthy way. • VO2 Max Testing: measures your oxygen uptake rate and how well your body uses oxygen during exercise. This helps us determine your body’s ideal intensity level for maximum fat burn. • Nutritional Planning: eating the right nutrients is essential for weight loss success. Create customized nutrition plans based on your unique body composition, lifestyle, metabolism, and goals. • Cryotherapy : use cold temperatures to improve circulation and boost your metabolism, making it easier for your body to burn fat and reach your body goals quicker. • Red Light Therapy: a non-invasive treatment that utilizes specific wavelengths of light to stimulate fat cells and increase metabolism leading to quicker weight loss. About Campus Motion Campus Motion is a cutting edge biohacking performance lab and wellness center utilizing the latest technological solutions to optimize and enhance the health of corporate and sports populations. We provide physical therapy, metabolic performance testing, MSK Health Screens, nutrition plans, cryotherapy, and red light therapy services to our local community in the Cypress suburb of Houston, TX while providing consultation services to organizations, teams, and schools across the country. Reach out to us if you are interested in improving the overall physical health of your organization or team by using any of these services.
Woman Undergoing Red light therapy

Biohack Aging & Your Longevity

By Okon Antia, PT, DPT, SCS, OCS,CSCS • June 2, 2024
Have you ever felt like there's more you could do to actively work towards living a longer life?
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Biohacking: What It Is, How It Works, and Its Benefits

By Okon Antia, PT, DPT, OCS,SCS, CSCS • March 17, 2024
Discover biohacking: the definition, how it works, and benefits. Optimize your body and mind using science, technology, and lifestyle changes.
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Corrective Exercise Myths and FAQs: Unveiling the Importance of Corrective Exercise on Injury Prevention & Athletic Performance

By Okon Antia, PT, DPT, OCS, SCS, CSCS • January 3, 2024
Think corrective exercise is just for the injured? Think again!
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By Okon Antia, PT, DPT, OCS, SCS, CSCS • September 14, 2023
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