Built for Impact: How Physiotherapy Keeps Rugby Players in the Game
With the women’s Rugby World Cup starting this weekend, and pre-season training up and running we thought it was about time we wrote a blog about what is widely considered to be one of the most physically demanding sports. Rugby is not for the faint-hearted. With its combination of high-impact collisions, explosive sprinting, and sustained physical exertion, rugby challenges every part of the body - and the mind! It’s no surprise, then, that physiotherapy plays a crucial role in injury prevention, recovery, and performance enhancement for rugby players of all levels.
What are the commonly seen rugby injuries?
1. Concussions and Head Trauma caused by tackles or impacts during rucks and mauls. Symptoms include headache, confusion, dizziness, memory issues. It is important to follow a graded return-to-play protocol, alongside cognitive rest (avoid screen time), balance and vestibular rehab.
2. Shoulder dislocations and AC joint sprains can occur following tackles and falls. Symptoms are instability, swelling, loss of range and pain in overhead movements. Physio will focus on strengthening of the rotator cuff and scapular muscles, and joint protection strategies such as taping.
3. Knee Ligament Injuries (ACL, MCL, Meniscus) can result from pivoting, side-stepping, or contact. Symptoms are swelling, joint instability, loss of range and pain on weightbearing. Treatment will be either surgical or conservative rehab. Either way you’ll need physio which will include range of motion exercises, strengthening and neuromuscular re-education.
4. Hamstring and Quadriceps Strains due to sudden sprinting and sudden decelerations. Symptoms will be sudden pain and tightness followed by bruising which may take a few days to come out. Treatment can start early with ice, compression and gentle stretches. Massage can also be beneficial after this stage. It is important to start an early graded strengthening programme progressing to more dynamic rehab and sprint mechanics retraining in late-stage rehab.
5. Lower Back Pain from scrummaging, tackling, and heavy lifting movements. Symptoms will be pain and stiffness in the lower back and this can restrict basic day to day activities. It is important to get going on some basic spinal mobility and core and glut activation. Heat is a good option too. It is worth having a physio, PT or sports therapist check your lifting technique when you do get back to the gym.
Why do rugby players need physiotherapy?
· Injury Risk Reduction - screenings and prehab programs address biomechanical weaknesses before they turn into injuries.
· Rehabilitation for Full Contact Return. Rugby-specific rehab includes contact simulation, strength building, and psychological readiness.
· Performance Optimisation - Improve your running mechanics, agility, and explosive power while staying injury-free.
· Post-Match Recovery Protocols. Modalities like soft tissue work, compression, and mobility sessions reduce soreness and support tissue healing.
Top injury prevention tips for rugby players
· Warm Up Thoroughly: Use full-body mobility drills, not just jogging and static stretches.
· Train for Contact: Incorporate strength, neck training, and technique into your preseason.
· Master Your Movement: Poor lifting or running technique can lead to preventable injuries.
· Hydrate and Refuel: Dehydration and fatigue increase injury risk, especially late in matches.
· Respect Concussion Protocols: Never rush a return to play after head trauma.
Don’t let an injury keep you on the bench!
Whether you’re returning from surgery or looking to stay injury-free through the season, physiotherapists can help you build strength, resilience, and confidence. Prevention is far better than cure, so if you have any concerns about getting back out on the pitch, or if you are currently feeling a mild niggle, book at appointment for an assessment. Good physios like us will set you up for a successful season!
