Return to Play with Proof
At LHM® Physical Therapy Institute, return-to-play testing is designed to help athletes, parents, coaches, and referring providers make better decisions with objective data, not just timelines or guesswork. Using a combination of movement assessments, force plate testing, digital dynamometry, and sport-specific performance testing, we identify whether an athlete is ready to return to play, and what still needs to improve.
This is a performance-driven, data-informed service built to identify deficits, guide decision-making, and support a safer, more confident return to activity, because return to play testing requires specialized equipment and trained staff, this service is currently available at select LHMPTI centers only.
What makes this different?
A clear next-step plan if the athlete is not ready yet
Sport-specific testing matched to the athletes demands
Force plate analysis and digital dynamometry
Movement assessments through Functional Movement Systems® (FMS) and Move2Perform
Objective testing to support return-to-play decisions WHO THIS IS FOR
When you’re not 100% sure you’re ready.
Many athletes reach the end of rehabilitation with an important question still unanswered: Am I truly ready to return? Our return-to-play testing is designed for athletes who want a clearer understanding of readiness based on measurable findings, not simply time since the injury or surgery.
This service may be appropriate for athletes returning after ACL reconstruction, lower extremity injury, shoulder injury, concussion, or other sports-related conditions, as well as individuals looking to better understand performance deficits before resuming full participation.
Athletes
- Improve performance
- Gain a clearer picture of readiness to return to sport
- Reduce risk of reinjury
- Build confidence for competition
Parents
- Make informed decisions about your child’s safety and readiness to return to play
Coaches
- Understand athlete readiness beyond observation
- Support safe return-to-play decisions
Providers
- Add objective data to support clinical decision-making
- Complement rehabilitation and discharge planning
WHAT WE ASSESS
A complete performance profile, not just one test.
LHMPTI combines multiple tools to create a more complete picture of readiness. Rather than relying on one test or one score, we assess how the athlete moves, produces force, handles asymmetry, and performs during sport-relevant tasks.
Movement Quality
Functional Movement Systems® (FMS) and Move2Perform identify mobility, control, and compensation patterns.
Force & Power
Force plate testing measures how an athlete produces and absorbs force during performance tasks.
Strength & Symmetry
Digital dynamometry quantifies strength deficits and side-to-side differences.
Sport Performance
Testing is tailored to the athlete’s sport demands, including cutting, jumping, acceleration, deceleration, and change of direction.
OUR PROCESS
A clear path from testing to decision.
| Comprehensive Testing | Performance Profile | Clear Next-Step Plan | Re-Test & Progress Tracking |
| Testing is inclusive of movement screening, force plate analysis, strength and stability testing, and sport-specific measures. | We identify asymmetries, movement limitations, and performance deficits. | You receive actionable guidance on what is ready and what still needs work. | Track improvements over time to support a more informed, confident return. |
FAQs
Common questions about return-to-play testing
Who should consider return-to-play testing?
Athletes finishing rehabilitation, returning after surgery or injury, or preparing to resume higher-demand sport activity may benefit from objective testing before full return.
What does LHMPTI use during return-to-play testing?
Is this only for high-level athletes?
What happens if the athlete is not ready yet?
Do I need to be an existing LHMPTI patient?
Do I need a referral for return-to-play testing?
Is return-to-play testing offered at all LHMPTI locations?
Looking for a clearer return-to-play decision?
If you are an athlete, parent, coach, or referring provider interested in return-to-play testing, connect with LHMPTI to learn which centers currently offer this pathway and whether it is the right fit for your needs.