Overhead Athlete Program

Overhead athletes endure some of the fastest motions in sports, and their bodies come in all shapes and sizes. Many different styles of delivery and motion can be observed in overhead sports, each presenting a potential competitive advantage, as well as the potential for movement impairments leading to injury or decreased performance. The Washington University Overhead Athlete Clinic will evaluate and diagnose these impairments to effectively treat injuries, and promote optimal movement patterns for return to and achievement in sports.

Key Components of the Overhead Athlete Clinic

• One on One patient care during each session
• A comprehensive screen assessing the entire body
• Video Analysis of Sport-Specific Movement
• Post Assessment Report of physical and technical findings correlating to injury or decreased performance
• An individualized treatment program to address dysfunctions
• Communication between your physical therapist to coaches, parents, and athletic trainers

At the Washington University Physical Therapy Clinic, we have a team of skilled providers specializing in helping injured athletes return to sport. There are many options for physical therapy treatment in the St. Louis metro area; however, what sets our clinic apart is our evidence-based practice and patient-centered care. Each athlete receives a 60-90 minute initial evaluation which consists of a thorough musculoskeletal exam, the use of slow motion video capture technology to analyze sport-specific movements, and an individualized treatment plan. All of our treatment session are conducted in a 1:1 environment. Our treatment plans consists of a collaborative effort with the athletes, parents, and coaches to achieve maximal performance goals, and/or safe return to competition.

Common conditions to be treated in the Overhead Athlete Clinic

• Shoulder impingement
• Rotator Cuff Tendinitis
• Shoulder Labrum (SLAP) Tear/Lesion
• Little Leaguer’s Shoulder/Elbow
• Thoracic Outlet Syndrome
• Shoulder Instability
• Biceps Tendonitis
• GIRD (Glenohumeral Internal Rotation Deficit)
• SICK Scapula/Scapular Dyskinesia
• Ulnar Collateral Ligament Tear/Sprain
• Tennis and Golfer’s Elbow
• Low/Mid Back Pain