By Caitlin Fernandez, MS, ATC & the Spine & Sport Team

Lacrosse moves fast—and so do the injuries. Between high-speed cuts, physical contact, and rapid direction changes, the sport puts serious demands on the body. The good news? Most injuries can be managed early with the right physical therapy plan.

Here are a few of the most common lacrosse injuries we see—and what early action actually helps:

Ankle Sprains

All that pivoting and sudden movement puts serious stress on the ankles. When a sprain happens, don’t wait for the swelling to go down on its own. Early PT helps reduce swelling, improve balance, and strengthen the muscles that support your ankle—so you can recover faster and prevent future sprains.

Rotator Cuff Irritation

Shooting, passing, and defending all depend on solid shoulder mechanics. The small stabilizing muscles around the rotator cuff often get overworked or irritated. PT focuses on improving mobility and strengthening the shoulder in a way that supports long-term power and precision.

ACL Injuries & Knee Strains

ACL injuries are one of the biggest concerns in field sports like lacrosse. Whether it's a mild strain or something more serious, early rehab can make a major difference. We focus on restoring quad activation, correcting movement patterns, and building control—so knees stay protected even in fast-paced play.

Low Back Strain

Low back pain is often a symptom—not the root problem. Limited mobility in the hips or upper back (thoracic spine) can force the lower back to overcompensate. Our approach addresses those underlying causes, not just the pain itself, so athletes can return stronger, with better overall mechanics.

Don’t Wait It Out

If something hurts or feels “off,” early treatment is key. Ignoring pain or pushing through it can turn a short-term issue into a season-long problem. The right rehab plan helps you bounce back smarter, faster, and more confidently.


Got a nagging injury—or just want to check your movement before the season ramps up?
Spine & Sport’s expert clinicians are here to help.

Don’t guess—get answers. Visit https://www.prnpt.com/brands/spine-and-sport-physical-therapy today

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