The perceived role of the strength and conditioning coach in athlete rehabilitation

Abstract

Strength and conditioning (S&C) coaches may collaborate with physiotherapists in athlete rehabilitation, but their role has not been documented. Therefore, this study aimed to clarify their role through the perspectives of physiotherapists and S&C coaches. The researchers conducted semi-structured interviews in New Zealand with four physiotherapists and five S&C coaches, including one who had previously been a physiotherapist. Thematic analysis identified 13 themes analysed in four categories: current role (teamwork with the rehabilitation team, level of involvement, and physical roles), proposed role (teamwork with the rehabilitation team, level of involvement, and physical roles), variables (rehabilitation team structure, governance, relationships in the rehabilitation team, and the athlete), and significance (positive and negative). Currently, most S&C coaches have a small role in providing performance training at the end of rehabilitation. Participants thought they should be involved earlier, but poor communication and collaboration with health professionals reduce their role. They proposed that S&C coaches should be somewhat involved following a health professional’s diagnosis, increasing their involvement as athlete function improves and the physiotherapist’s role decreases. Participants agreed that this role should be flexible and account for each clinical context.