Feb 11 • 15:30 UTC 🇨🇿 Czechia Deník N

Lindsey Vonn is inspirational, but don't take her as an example, says physiotherapist

A physiotherapist discusses the implications of Lindsey Vonn's return to skiing just nine days after an injury, emphasizing that her case is not applicable to non-athletes.

In a recent interview, physiotherapist Lucie Zábrodská delves into the remarkable yet risky return of American skier Lindsey Vonn to competition mere days after a serious knee injury. Vonn's resilience is widely admired, however, Zábrodská cautions against taking her as a model for non-professionals, as the rehabilitative timeline for average individuals can range significantly, often taking six to twelve weeks post-injury. The interview clarifies that while Vonn managed to ski again fast due to her professional caliber and rigorous training, this rapid recovery isn't feasible for most.

Zábrodská explains the physiological differences between professional athletes and recreational individuals, pointing out that Vonn's return was facilitated by her exceptional fitness and stability. Despite her incredible athleticism, attempting to replicate this speed of recovery could lead to dire consequences for regular people, such as increased risks of re-injury. It is highlighted that, in professional sports, athletes often carry out intensive rehabilitation and employ supportive gear like braces to aid their recovery, which is not a common consideration for the average person.

The discussion ultimately raises awareness about the importance of a tailored rehabilitation process that considers individual physical attributes and healing times. It emphasizes a responsible approach to injury recovery, encouraging non-professionals to follow established recovery guidelines rather than the seemingly miraculous recoveries of elite athletes like Vonn.

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