Initial Sports Specialization

Sports specialization is a branch of physical therapy focused on preventing, diagnosing, and treating injuries related to athletic activities. It combines knowledge of musculoskeletal function, biomechanics, and sports science to help athletes recover from injuries, enhance performance, and prevent future injuries. 

Sports physical therapists work with athletes of all levels, from amateurs to professionals, providing personalized treatment plans that include exercise, manual therapy, and educational interventions. The goal of sports specialty practice is to develop and maintain high-quality physical therapy professionals in this specialty practice area.

How to Become a Sports Certified Clinical Specialist:

• Residency Track

If you are a student, licensed physical therapist, or a residency program, looking for specific information related to sports physical therapy residency programs, please reference The American Board of Physical Therapy Education Residency and Fellowship page. 

Sports Physical Therapy Residency Match

The majority of Sports Physical Therapy Residency Programs participate in a match process to fill program vacancies with high-quality residency candidates.

Important Program & Applications Dates for the 2026-2027 Cohort:

October 1, 2025: Program Applications Open

December 15, 2025: Interview Offers Sent Out

February 23, 2026: Rank Lists Due

March 1, 2026: Match Day

*Please reference program-specific websites for application due dates and program-specific contact information.

• Non-Residency Track

If you are a student or licensed physical therapist seeking information on sport specialization beyond residency education, please reference The American Board of Physical Therapy Specialists page.