Athletes depend on their optimal physical skill for performance, so when injuries occur the results can be life changing. The first thought that may cross an athletes mind after going through an injury is whether their dreams are shattered for the future.

Doctor Of Physical Therapy Jacqueline Van Duijn says, "A lot of times their so used to pushing themselves and so motivated to keep on going they end up doing something too late and their injuries are a little bit more severe than somebody else's injuries."

Thirteen-year gymnast Rachel Mitnick, says she kept up her normal practice schedule as she didn't have time to go to the doctor. Ends up that time cost her a knee surgery. "So they went in and took everything out and found there was more damage than they expected," says Rachel.

Rachel soon learned that she needed to take a new approach to her training to recover properly

"I think it's a little harder because I thought I would just be able to jump back into everything and I didn't realize how I actually have to work for this."

Well Rachel, practice makes perfect and thanks to physical therapists like those at gulf coast hospital, athletes are trained faster and better than ever. "They're so motivated they want to go for it and the physical therapist has to see what the limits are and really explain their limits to them," explains Dr. Van Dujin.

Jackie also says athletes may want to jump to a higher level than they're ready too so physical therapists pay close attention to their stability, flexibility and ability to perform. Due to the advanced medical technologies and highly qualified training of physical therapists, athletes have the increased opportunity to stay in their profession for the long run.