Return-to-sport rehab has come a long way from 'no pain, full speed.' Today's framework is built around criteria-based progression — you move to the next phase only when you can demonstrate the strength, control, and tolerance to handle it.
Strength symmetry between sides matters enormously. For lower-body injuries, we look for at least 90% symmetry on single-leg testing (squats, hops, presses) before clearing higher-impact training. Anything less, and re-injury rates climb sharply.
Sport-specific drills are layered in last — not first. Linear running, then change of direction, then sport-specific cutting and contact. Each step earns the next one.
The goal isn't just returning to sport; it's returning more durable than you were before the injury. That mindset, combined with a structured plan, is how our NE Calgary team gets athletes back to play and keeps them there.