Injury Recovery Therapy
by Return to Play Institute, LLC

You’re running along your favorite trail at sunrise, the cool morning air wafting past your face. Then it happens. You step on the side of a small branch and twist your ankle. Ouch! It swells. You try to walk it off, but can’t get back to running. You head home, but first, a stop at the urgent care for a quick picture. Good news, the Doc says nothing is broken, it must be just a soft tissue injury.

Two days later, the ankle is still too tender to bear weight and swollen. You’ve been icing and resting but you want to get back to running. The pain still nags at you. You wonder, “Will I ever get back to running?”

When a doctor says it’s “Just a soft tissue injury,” you should think about Injury Recovery Therapy at Return to Play Institute (RTPI). Learn how our Soft Tissue Therapy Services can support your healing journey. We’re here to meet you where you are—whether you’re a weekend warrior, a busy parent juggling fitness and family, or a dedicated athlete chasing PRs. We’re here to get you back to the activity you love.

Book an Injury Recovery Therapy

Call Return to Play Institute Today!

When Life Gets Interrupted by Injury, You Need Injury Recovery Therapy

Injuries don’t just affect your body—they disrupt your routine, your goals, and sometimes, even your identity. That shoulder strain from lifting your toddler can make you question your strength. The knee pain that lingers after a hike can turn every stair into a reminder of better days in the past. And the backache from sitting too long? That’s not just discomfort; it’s a barrier to better living.

At RTPI, Injury Recovery Therapy is all about addressing the root causes, not just hiding the pain. Explore our complementary therapies, such as Orthopedic Soft Tissue Therapy, for a holistic approach to recovery. Whether your injury stems from sports, overuse, or an accident, we focus on your concerns—not just your symptoms. No shots or scalpels – just clinical soft tissue treatment.

The Stories We Hear and the People We Help with Injury Recovery Therapy

The Athlete Who Can’t Afford to Wait

“I just want to get back on the field.”

That’s what Mia told us, a 16-year-old soccer player with a strained hamstring. Missing practice wasn’t an option for her. She needed a plan that would not only help her heal but also improve her movement patterns to prevent future injuries.

Through tailored manual soft tissue therapy, we worked with Mia to ease the tension in her hamstrings, improve flexibility, and optimize her biomechanics. from the pelvis to the ankles. By addressing her concern and the surrounding support structure, Mia was back on the field—not just playing, but performing better than before.

The Parent Who Pushes Through Pain

“I don’t have time to rest with an injury.”

Tom, a father of three, had been ignoring his wrist pain for months. By addressing his muscle imbalances with Pain Relief Therapy, we helped him regain strength and confidence. Between work and helping his kids with school projects, he couldn’t afford to slow down. But when the pain started affecting his grip strength, even simple tasks like tying shoelaces became challenging.

At RTPI, we looked at the bigger picture—the use of his wrist and arm, daily habits, and how he was compensating for the pain by overusing his other wrist and arm. Addressing the underlying muscle imbalances and uses helped Tom regain strength and confidence.

What Makes Injury Recovery Therapy Different at RTPI?

A Deep Dive Into You

Your body holds the keys to your recovery, with our help, of course. We’re here to release the grip of pain. Our therapists work to understand how your injury fits into the bigger picture of your life. We work with you to help your body recover from the trauma and release the pain.

Tailored Care for Everybody

Injury recovery isn’t one-size-fits-all. A young athlete recovering from a sprain needs a different approach than a middle-aged desk worker dealing with low back pain. At RTPI, we tailor your treatment to suit your body’s needs and your personal goals.

How Injury Recovery Therapy Works: Your Path to Recovery

Intake. We Listen to You.

From the moment you walk through our doors, it’s about you. We start with a comprehensive assessment of your injury history, lifestyle, and movement patterns. Learn how our Manual Lymphatic Drainage Therapy can reduce swelling and support recovery. We want to know what matters to you most. Is it being able to chase your kids in the yard? Getting back to your CrossFit class? Or simply walking without pain?

Targeted Manual Soft Tissue Therapy

Our therapists use precise hands-on techniques to release your tight muscles, improve circulation, reduce scar tissue tightness, and reduce inflammation. For instance, if you’re recovering from a rotator cuff injury, we’ll focus on breaking up scar tissue and restoring mobility in the shoulder while guiding you on ways to strengthen the surrounding tissues to avoid re-injury.

Educating and Empowering You

Recovery doesn’t stop when you leave the clinic. We equip you with knowledge and homework—simple stretches, strength exercises, and lifestyle adjustments—to continue your progress at home. Discover more about our Post-Surgical Massage Therapy for post-injury care.

Why Clients Trust RTPI for Injury Recovery

Real Results for Real People

We’ve helped runners complete marathons, parents lift their kids pain-free, and dancers maintain their flexibility. Our success stories aren’t just about injury recovery; they’re about transformation from pain to performance.

Personal, Compassionate Care

At RTPI, you’re not just another appointment. We take the time to listen, understand, and adapt our approach to what works for you. You are safe on our table.

Scenarios Where You Might Need Injury Recovery Therapy

When “Rest” Isn’t Enough

If you’ve tried ice, rest, and over-the-counter pain relief with no success, it’s time for a deeper approach. Manual soft tissue therapy can address the hidden causes of your pain.

For Chronic Issues That Won’t Quit

Maybe it’s that shoulder that’s constantly sore after a workout or the ankle that feels unstable after a run. These aren’t just minor nuisances—they’re signs that your body needs attention.

Prevention of Future Injuries

You don’t have to wait until something goes wrong to take care of your body. Injury Recovery Therapy can help identify potential problem areas and address them before they slow you down.

Personal Injury (Auto Accidents) and Recovery

Auto accidents, even minor ones, can significantly impact your physical well-being. Injuries such as whiplash, shoulder pain, and back issues are common, even in the smallest fender benders. There is no reason to delay care for the injuries you receive. In some cases, you may not even feel like you are hurt until days later.

How Can We Help You?

First, you need to seek a medical evaluation from a licensed healthcare professional such as an MD, DO, DC, or other type of doctor. Once they determine your immediate medical needs are taken care of, ask them for a referral (with diagnostic codes) to see us. This referral typically has your information along with indications of your injuries (diagnostics). Your doctor can give this referral to you, or they can fax or e-mail it to us.

The first time you see us, we will have some paperwork for you to fill out. Be sure to bring your insurance claim letter and auto insurance card with you so we can make copies of both.

Support When You Need It Most

Experience in Treating Auto Accident Injuries: Our experienced therapists understand the complexities of injuries like whiplash, which can occur even at low speeds. Early intervention is crucial, and our treatments are designed to alleviate pain, restore mobility, and reduce long-term complications.
Direct Insurance Billing: One of the challenges after an accident is navigating the financial aspects of your recovery. We want to make this as stress-free as possible for you. That’s why we will bill your auto insurance directly (Only in Minnesota. Florida does not allow us to bill your auto insurance). You can focus entirely on your recovery.
Comprehensive Care Network: Recovery from an auto accident often requires a multidisciplinary approach. In addition to our clinical massage therapy, we can refer you to other health practitioners you may need for a complete and holistic recovery. We also have recommendations for other professionals who can help you, such as legal representatives. Whether it’s a chiropractor, physical therapist, or another specialist, we have a network of trusted professionals ready to assist you.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is Injury Recovery Therapy, and How Does It Work?

Injury Recovery Therapy is an approach to healing and rehabilitation that focuses on addressing the root causes of pain and dysfunction caused by injuries or trauma. It combines precise manual soft tissue techniques to reduce tension, improve circulation, and promote tissue repair. At RTPI, the therapy is tailored to your body’s unique needs. It focuses on restoring mobility, strength, and function, helping you return to your normal activities as safely and quickly as possible.

How Is Injury Recovery Therapy Different From Other Treatments?

Injury recovery therapy is different from other treatments because, unlike treatments that rely heavily on medications or elastic tape, it takes a hands-on, personalized approach. Our therapy is about understanding and addressing the underlying issues, not about masking pain. At RTPI, we focus on your individual concerns, injury history, and goals, using targeted techniques to optimize your recovery and help prevent future injuries.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Injury Recovery Therapy?

Anyone recovering from an injury or trauma (whether sports, overuse, an accident, or surgery) is a good candidate for injury recovery therapy. Injury Recovery Therapy is ideal for active individuals, athletes, parents with physical demands, and even those managing chronic pain or stiffness. If you feel like your body isn’t performing as it should or you’re struggling to recover fully, this therapy is for you.

What Kinds of Injuries Can Injury Recovery Therapy Address?

Injury Recovery Therapy can address various kinds of injuries, including:

Sprains and strains

Overuse injuries (e.g., tendonitis, shin splints, hip pain)

Chronic pain or stiffness (e.g., frozen shoulder, lower back pain)

Sports-related injuries (e.g., muscle pulls, dislocations)

Of course you’re unsure whether your injury qualifies, call the team at RTPI for a consultation and they will recommend the ideal course of action.

How Long Does It Take To See Results?

The time it takes to see results depends on factors like the type and severity of your injury, your overall health, and your commitment to the therapy plan. Many clients experience noticeable improvements after just a few sessions, such as reduced pain or increased range of motion. For long-term results, consistency and following at-home recommendations are key. At RTPI, we’ll work with you to set realistic goals and monitor your progress along the way.

Rewriting Your Injury Narrative

It’s easy to let an injury define you. But at Return to Play Institute, LLC, we’re here to help you write a new story—one where you overcome pain, rebuild strength, and rediscover what your body can do.

Whether you’re dealing with a new injury or struggling with an old one, don’t settle for “good enough.” Your body deserves better. And at RTPI, we’re ready to help you get there.

Ready to take back control? Book your first session at Return to Play Institute today. Let’s create a plan that works for you—not just for your injury, but for the life you want to live.

Let Us Help You with Injury Recovery Therapy

Call Return to Play Institute Today!