Hockey Injuries: Rehab and Return-to-Play Guide for Winter in St. Thomas

January in St. Thomas brings cold air, bright rinks, and a bustling hockey scene. For players, quick starts and hard hits are part of the game, but winter injuries can sideline a season if not managed properly. At The MVMT Clinic St. Thomas, our team of chiropractors, physiotherapists, massage therapists, and rehabilitation specialists work together to get you back on the ice safely—whether you’re a recreational skater or a member of the St. Thomas STARS Junior B team. Located at 204 First Avenue, St. Thomas, Ontario, we serve athletes across the region with comprehensive, evidence-based care.

Common winter hockey injuries you’ll see in St. Thomas

• Ankle sprains and knee strains from quick pivots on ice
• Shoulder injuries from checking and collisions
• Lower back and hip pain from repetitive skating motions
• Concussions and neck discomfort from impacts
• Muscle contusions and overuse injuries from tight schedules and indoor rinks

A proven rehab path from The MVMT Clinic St. Thomas: From Injury to Return-to-Play

Our integrated approach combines hands-on care with sport-specific rehab to help you return to play stronger and safer.

Step 1: Comprehensive assessment

A licensed clinician (physiotherapist or chiropractor) evaluates your injury, movement patterns, and on-ice demands. We coordinate across rehabilitation exercises, manual therapy, and, if needed, acupuncture or massage to address all factors.

Step 2: Pain and swelling management

We tailor modalities and guidance to reduce discomfort and protect the healing tissues, so you can begin controlled loading as soon as appropriate.

Step 3: Progressive rehabilitation program

You’ll follow a structured plan that builds strength, mobility, and neuromuscular control, with hockey-specific movements (edge work, skating stride, hip stability) phased in as tolerated.

Step 4: Sport-specific progression and testing

We simulate on-ice scenarios and perform functional tests to determine readiness for contact, cadence, and intensity, ensuring you’re prepared for game speed.

Step 5: Return-to-play clearance and prevention

Before you return, you’ll receive clearance and a prevention plan (warm-up routines, conditioning, and prehab exercises) to reduce the risk of re-injury. Our dietetic guidance can support healing and energy needs during the rehab period.

How The MVMT Clinic St. Thomas supports hockey players in January

• Local expertise for St. Thomas athletes, including our work with the St. Thomas STARS Junior B Hockey team
• One-stop care: chiropractic, physiotherapy, massage therapy, rehabilitation exercises, acupuncture, and nutrition guidance all under one roof
• Flexible scheduling to fit winter practice and game calendars
• Emphasis on education: we help you understand your injury, the rehab process, and practical prevention tips you can use between games

How long does it take to recover from a hockey injury?

The answer depends on the injury type and severity. In general:

• Minor sprains or contusions: roughly 1-3 weeks with targeted rehab
• Moderate injuries (ankle/knee strains, mild concussions): several weeks
• Significant injuries (ligament tears, shoulder instability, major concussions): weeks to months

A personalized plan from The MVMT Clinic St. Thomas starts with a thorough assessment, after which we map a realistic timeline and milestones toward a safe return to the rink.

Seasonal and holiday relevance

• New year, new goals: January is a great time to rebalance training loads and address lingering injuries before playoff push
• Indoor training continuity: we help you optimize rehab without long winter breaks, keeping you prepared for spring hockey nearby in St. Thomas
• Local community focus: staying active supports overall wellness, nutrition, and recovery, all guided by our multidisciplinary team

Get in touch

Winter in St. Thomas doesn’t have to end your hockey season. If you’re dealing with a hockey-related injury, The MVMT Clinic St. Thomas is ready to help you rehab the right way and return to play safely. Schedule a comprehensive assessment today at 204 First Avenue, St. Thomas, Ontario N5R 4P5, or visit our website to book online. Let us tailor a hockey recovery plan that fits your goals, supports your STARS teammates, and gets you back on the ice this January. Take the first step toward better health with The MVMT Clinic St. Thomas.