Physical Therapy For CrossFit Athletes

What is CrossFit?

CrossFit is a type of high-intensity functional training (HIFT) that includes functional and constantly varied exercise. CrossFit integrates traditional strength training, cardiovascular fitness, and aspects of gymnastics to create a unique style of exercise. CrossFit is centered around scalability, as athletes can progress not just through added load, but also through movement and volume modifications. Due to these modifications and changes, individuals of varying fitness levels can benefit from a CrossFit-style program. 

CrossFit has been commonly misconceived as a high-injury sport. However, recent studies are showcasing that CrossFit has the same injury risk as other sports like Gymnastics and Olympic Weightlifting. Like any other sport, having a competent coach, appropriate programming, and individual body awareness greatly decreases the risk of injury.

We at FX Physical Therapy believe that CrossFit is a great fitness program for many individuals. In fact, many of the therapists at FX Physical Therapy are active CrossFit athletes, which is why we are passionate about helping CrossFit athletes move better, feel stronger, and live healthier. 

What Injuries are Common in Crossfitters?

A recent study found the following injuries to be the most common out of all reported CrossFit injuries:

  1. Shoulder Injuries (39%)
  2. Back Injuries (36%)
  3. Knee Injuries (15%)
  4. Elbow Injuries (12%)
  5. Wrist Injuries (11%)

However, injuries are not limited to those categories! CrossFit challenges a multitude of muscles within the body and, as a result, injuries can occur in many different areas. 

What Causes Injury in CrossFit Athletes?

CrossFit is an intense workout, asking athletes to perform multiple repetitions within a limited time. Competent coaching, multiple options for scaling, a good warm up, and mindful programming all greatly reduce the risk of injury. Many injuries we’ve seen in CrossFit result from an athlete being unaware of their personal limits and/or from volume overload. CrossFit is a sustainable sport when athletes remember that not every workout should be an all-out max effort. Remember: form over everything.

The movements within CrossFit are demanding on one’s body, so it is important to perform them correctly. Common CrossFit exercises include overhead squats, push presses, kettlebell swings, and snatches. Squat mechanics and overhead mobility look different for every body type, so it’s a good idea to meet with an expert to address any mobility, stability, or strength deficits before trying this sport for the first time.

In addition, CrossFitters who experienced prior injury are also at greater risk for re-injury.

Helping CrossFitters Grow Stronger and Recover from Injury

The Injury Screen

The Injury Screen is designed to identify any weaknesses, deficiencies, or abnormalities within your movement patterns that may be causing injury or pain. Understanding your pain and the underlying cause can be tricky, as pain is often referred to areas away from the origin, meaning that although it could be your knee that hurts, it is actually your hip or ankle that is the cause. 

All of our treatments are performed in a 1-on-1 setting, where you get the full attention of your Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT), ensuring an accurate diagnosis. Get seen by a CrossFit specialised DPT today.

Post Surgical Recovery

Returning to Crossfit after an injury or surgery can be daunting. FX Physical Therapy specializes in a range of techniques in order to help you achieve the best results and the safest return to sport. These treatments include:

  • Manual Therapy
  • Blood Flow Restriction
  • Cupping

Performance Testing & Programing

Push yourself to the limit while protecting yourself from pain and injury with effective training and programming. Our team utilizes the most advanced research and technology to help you achieve your goals faster, smarter, and better. 

  • Dry Needling
  • Metabolic testing
  • Upper Extremity Testing
  • Lower Extremity Testing
  • Corrective Exercise
  • Digital Performance Therapy

Recovery Zone Services

Preparing for an upcoming Crossfit Games? Struggling with soreness after a workout? Our clinics offer recovery services, giving you access to the latest recovery tools and treatments to help you minimize soreness and maximize time spent in the gym.