What is Sports Physiotherapy?
Sports physiotherapy is a specialised branch of physical therapy aimed at preventing, diagnosing, treating, and rehabilitating injuries sustained through physical activity and sport. Whether you’re an elite athlete or a recreational gym-goer, sports physio helps you recover efficiently and return to your activities safely and with confidence.
Common Sports Injuries Treated
Sports injuries typically fall into two categories:
1. Traumatic Injuries
These happen suddenly during activity and often involve high-impact incidents. Common examples include:
- Muscle tears or strains
- Dislocations
- Ligament sprains (e.g., ACL, ankle sprains)
- Cartilage damage
- Bone fractures
2. Overuse Injuries
These develop over time due to repetitive motion or training errors. They’re common in runners, lifters, and racket sport athletes. Common overuse injuries include:
- Shin splints
- Iliotibial (IT) band syndrome
- Tendonitis
- Rotator cuff injuries
- Tennis elbow and golfer’s elbow
Niamh uses detailed assessment tools and her background in manual therapy and dry needling to provide customised care plans. You can learn more about the range of common complaints treated at the clinic on our website.
Why Choose Flood Street Physio for Sports Physio in Galway?
1. Expertise with a Personal Touch
Niamh is a Chartered Physiotherapist with a strong academic background — a Master’s in Physiotherapy from Robert Gordon University, Aberdeen, and a BSc in Human Anatomy from NUI Galway. Her international experience in Dublin, New Zealand, and the NHS has given her a broad understanding of both acute and chronic injuries.
When you come to Flood Street Physio, you’re working with someone who not only knows the science of rehabilitation but also brings a deep passion for sports and fitness. Niamh herself has represented both Connacht and Ireland in squash — she understands first-hand the importance of effective, efficient recovery.
2. Tailored One-to-One Sessions
Unlike larger clinics with rotating staff, you’ll work directly with Niamh throughout your rehabilitation journey. This continuity of care is essential for monitoring progress, adjusting treatment, and maintaining a strong therapeutic relationship.
3. Advanced Hands-On Techniques
Niamh has additional certifications in:
- Dry Needling
- Mulligan’s Mobilisation Techniques
- Advanced Manipulation Therapy
These techniques allow for precise, targeted treatment to reduce pain, improve mobility, and accelerate healing.
4. Education & Injury Prevention
The goal isn’t just to get you back on your feet — it’s to help you stay there. Niamh places a strong focus on educating her clients on proper movement mechanics, training techniques, and home-based exercise programs to reduce the risk of re-injury. Her client-first approach is what makes her a leading physiotherapist in Galway.
Conditions Treated with Sports Physio
Here are just a few examples of how Niamh supports athletes and active individuals:
| Condition | Sports/Activities Affected | Typical Treatment Approach |
| Ankle Sprains | Running, Football, Hiking | Manual therapy, taping, proprioception training |
| Rotator Cuff Injuries | Swimming, Tennis, Weightlifting | Dry needling, strengthening, mobility work |
| Shin Splints | Running, CrossFit | Gait analysis, activity modification, soft tissue work |
| Tennis/Golfer’s Elbow | Tennis, Golf, Manual Labour | Manual therapy, stretching, load management |
| Knee Pain (e.g., ITB syndrome) | Running, Cycling | Biomechanics assessment, foam rolling, dry needling |
You can explore more about our services and how we support injury recovery across various conditions.
What to Expect During a Sports Physio Appointment
- Detailed Assessment Your first visit includes a full assessment of your injury history, movement patterns, strength, and flexibility.
- Hands-On Treatment Depending on the diagnosis, treatment may involve joint mobilisations, massage, dry needling, or corrective exercises.
- Rehabilitation Plan A personalised plan including exercises, activity modification, and return-to-play strategies will be outlined.
- Ongoing Monitoring As your recovery progresses, the treatment plan will evolve. Follow-up sessions ensure that you’re healing correctly and building resilience.
Why Early Intervention Matters
One of the most important things you can do after a sports injury is seek professional help early. Delaying treatment often leads to longer recovery times and potential compensatory injuries elsewhere in the body.
Whether you’re dealing with a nagging overuse injury or a sudden trauma, don’t wait. Working with a dedicated sports physio in Galway can make all the difference in how quickly and completely you recover.
Ready to Get Back in the Game?
At Flood Street Physio, the aim is simple: to help you recover, prevent future injuries, and optimise your performance. With expert assessment, hands-on care, and a personalised approach, you’ll be supported every step of the way — from first visit to full recovery.
✅ Book your appointment today with Galway’s trusted expert in sports physio.
📍 Located at Lower Strand House, Flood Street, Galway
📞 Call: (091) 456 086 | Book Online Now
