About Return to Sport & Performance Testing
At Athlete’s Edge Physiotherapy, we believe that evidence-based, criteria-driven, high-quality assessment is the foundation of elite rehabilitation and performance care. Standardised testing protocols ensure objective tracking of progress across every phase of rehab, from initial baseline to return-to-sport clearance. We utilise a combination of assessments, including testing with cutting edge VALD Technology, along with validated measures of movement control, power and strength in our specifically designed gym and training space. By applying structured, validated assessment tools, we can accurately identify deficits, guide clinical decision-making, and personalise programming to each athlete’s needs. This approach not only builds confidence in progression but is proven to reduce the risk of re-injury by ensuring that athletes meet specific, measurable benchmarks before advancing. Our commitment to transparent, data-informed care helps support better outcomes for both patients and referring professionals.
Frequently Asked Questions
What do I need to test before returning to sport?
Unfortunately, many athletes return to sport and experience re-injuries. High quality research studies demonstrate that passing specialist criteria based testing can significantly reduce your risk of re-injury.
Why should you consider a performance test?
Outside of returning from injury or returning to sport, performance testing allows you to quantify you current capacity, identify deficits and asymmetries, and work out a targeted plan on how to improve your sport performance. Many of the tests and results are back up with evidence and linked with competition outcomes, injury risk, performance and even longevity.
What injuries are appropriate for return to sport testing?
This is highly recommended for all injuries, particularly those with prolonged recoveries. These include, but are not limited to, knee injuries like ACL or meniscal injuries, post surgical injuries (e.g. post shoulder stabilisation surgery, post achilles repair), significant ankle injuries, hamstring or soft tissue muscle injuries, and many more.
What to expect in your return to sport assessment?
Our specialist return to sport assessments are located in a custom designed performance training facility in Caulfield North. We utilise combination of standardised functional assessments combined with the latest technology to give us a detailed evaluation of your readiness to resume your sport or activity. Assessments are typically up to 1 hour in length. We recommend you send through any injury information prior to your appointment, arrive early, and wear suitable clothing for dynamic movement.
Can I refer one of my athletes for testing?
Definitely! At Athlete’s Edge Physiotherapy we work closely with many referrers, including leading orthopaedic surgeons, sports physicians, GPs, other treating health practitioners and coaches. Please reach out and provide us a handover and we will ensure we send through a detailed summary of results and recommendations. See more about why you should refer to us to assist your athlete management outcomes.
Can I use my private health insurance to claim?
At Athlete’s Edge Physiotherapy, our specialist assessments—including running analysis, rowing screenings, and advanced return-to-sport testing—are priced at $260 and are rebateable through private health insurance. These comprehensive, data-driven assessments provide high-value insights and help guide both rehabilitation and performance planning with clarity and confidence. All assessments are paired with a detailed report or handover letter to provide insight to yourself and any referring practitioners or coaches. See more pricing information here.
