Physiotutors Podcast Beyond the Bench: A Pro Sports Physio’s Journey with Philip Andersson
In episode 73 of the Physiotutors podcast, we talk to Philipp Andersson, a seasoned physical therapist and strength and conditioning coach who heads the medical department for IFK Värnamo in Sweden's top football league. Philipp shares insights into his unconventional journey into sports physiotherapy, starting with a passion for working in professional sports, leading to volunteering opportunities that paved his way into elite sports teams. Despite lacking initial connections, his determination and strategic volunteer work helped him secure his current role.
Philipp discusses the unique challenges of working with both women's and men's football teams and the differences between training high-profile clients and professional athletes. He emphasizes the importance of sport-specific training and the need to connect gym work with on-field performance. The conversation also touches upon common injuries in soccer, particularly the prevalence of ACL injuries in women and muscle injuries in men, and the balance between performance and recovery.
Philipp talks about the realities of working in professional sports, debunking myths about glamour and high salaries, and highlights the rewarding aspects, such as forming strong connections with players. He also shares his leadership philosophy, stressing the importance of listening and open dialogue within a multidisciplinary team. The episode concludes with insights into Philipp's daily routine and the demands of balancing personal life with a career in professional sports.
GuestPhilip Andersson is a Physical Therapist and Strength & Conditioning Coach leading the medical department for IFK Värnamo in Sweden’s top football league. With experience in elite women’s football and training high-profile clients, Philip brings a wealth of knowledge on athlete care and performance.
Content
00:00 Intro
00:35 Philip's Journey into Professional Sports
03:13 Challenges of working with Athletes vs. Celebrities
05:05 How he landed his clients
06:00 Most common injuries he sees
07:45 Different injuries in men's vs. women's sports
08:22 Decision-making for RTP in professional sports
09:46 What's physio really like in professional sports
12:07 Common misconceptions
14:35 Most rewarding moments
18:13 Differences working with high profile clients
19:17 Leadership lessons
20:45 Philip's Advice to land a job in professional sports
23:30 Use of non EBP in professional sports
28:08 Philip's work philosophy
29:20 A typical day/week
32:20 Career Plans
34:30 Bonus Story
37:50 Bonus Story 2
39:29 Contact Info & Outro
Bonus Material
Download the referenced transcript including PubMed Links and a high-resolution infographic on this episode as part of your Physiotutors membership on the Physiotutors App.
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