Who is typically responsible for giving clearance to return to sport after injury?

• A. Physician.
• B. Coach.
• C. Physiotherapist.
• D. Athlete.

Answer: (A)

Authority to return to sport after an injury is a medical decision. A physician reviews healing, symptoms, and risk, confirming there are no ongoing contraindications and that the athlete can safely handle sport-specific loads. This includes assessing pain, range of motion, strength, stability, and often imaging or medical history, then ensuring the athlete has reached appropriate rehabilitation milestones. The physiotherapist supports this process through rehab, functional testing, and objective readiness assessments, but the formal clearance to compete is given by the physician to protect the athlete’s safety and well-being. Coaches and athletes can contribute to progression, but they do not provide the medical clearance.