Subjective Assessment

The assessment begins with a detailed consultation in which the therapist gathers information directly from the client. This is known as the subjective assessment, as it focuses on the client’s personal account of their symptoms, history, and experiences.

During this stage, the therapist will ask about the onset of the injury (how it occurred), the location and nature of the pain, and any factors that make the symptoms better or worse. They will also review relevant medical history, previous injuries, current lifestyle, training load, and goals for recovery. This conversation provides invaluable context and allows the therapist to form an initial hypothesis about the potential structures involved. Just as importantly, it builds rapport and trust, ensuring the client feels heard and understood at the outset of their care.

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Objective Assessment

Following the subjective assessment, the therapist carries out a series of objective tests to gather measurable and observable information. This stage involves a physical examination of the injured area as well as an assessment of overall posture, movement, and biomechanics.

The therapist may use a combination of methods, including:

• Observation of swelling, bruising, or deformity.

• Palpation (feeling the tissues) to assess tenderness, tension, or structural changes.

• Range of motion testing, both active (client moves themselves) and passive (therapist moves the joint).

• Strength and resistance testing to evaluate muscle function.

• Special tests designed to stress specific structures, such as ligaments or tendons, to confirm or rule out their involvement.

This stage provides clinical evidence that either supports or challenges the initial ideas formed during the subjective assessment. Together, these findings build a clearer picture of the nature and severity of the injury.

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Differential Diagnosis

Once sufficient information has been gathered, the therapist applies clinical reasoning to consider a differential diagnosis. This involves systematically ruling out possible injuries or conditions that may present with similar symptoms until the most likely diagnosis emerges.

For example, knee pain may be caused by a ligament sprain, a meniscal injury, or patellofemoral pain syndrome. By carefully considering the mechanism of injury, the location of pain, and the results of physical testing, the therapist narrows down the options to ensure the most accurate working diagnosis is reached. This step is crucial to avoid mismanagement and to ensure the client receives the most appropriate care pathway.

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Research into Diagnosis for Best Care and Outcome

The final stage of the assessment process involves research and evidence-based practice. A professional Sports Therapist will review the most up-to-date clinical guidelines, scientific literature, and best-practice recommendations relating to the diagnosis. This ensures that the treatment and rehabilitation plan is not only tailored to the client’s needs but also grounded in proven methods.

Where necessary, the therapist may also liaise with other healthcare professionals — such as physiotherapists, doctors, or specialists — to ensure the client has access to the best possible care. This multi-disciplinary approach, combined with ongoing monitoring and reassessment, maximises the chances of a successful recovery and reduces the likelihood of re-injury.