Getting back to the sport or activity you love after an injury is exciting, but it can also be risky & daunting. Many athletes and active individuals return too soon, unaware of any lingering strength deficits, muscle imbalances, or faulty movement patterns that can  increase the chance of re-injury.

At Active Balance, we can help take the guesswork out of return-to-sport decisions. Using VALD ForceDecks and Dynamo technology, we can provide precise, objective data to assess your readiness and guide a safer, stronger return.

Why VALD Technology?

What the Research Shows

Studies consistently highlight that successful return to sport depends on more than just feeling better. Key factors include:

• Symmetrical force production
• Adequate muscle strength and activation
• Psychological readiness
• Efficient movement patterns

Without objective testing, these important markers are often missed. Our assessments help close that gap.



Common Injuries & Conditions We Can Test

• ACL tears & sprains - prehabilitation, post-surgery, and final return-to-play clearance
• Ankle sprains and ongoing instability
• Hamstring, quadriceps, calf, and hip muscle strains
• Tendinopathies - Achilles, patellar, gluteal
• Shoulder injuries and rotator cuff issues
• Post total knee or hip replacement
• Other acute or chronic sports injuries
• Falls risk - balance deficits, reaction time

What to Expect in Your Assessment

Your session will be tailored to your sport, injury history, and goals. It will generally include:

• A cluster of 2–5 specific tests (e.g. countermovement jumps, single-leg hops, isometric strength tests)
• Upper and lower body assessments
• Video analysis of movement quality
• Immediate review of your results
• Clear explanation of findings and recommended next steps
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Most testing takes 20–30 minutes, with additional time often needed for discussion and planning. You’ll also recieve a detailed report outlining your results, comparisons to benchmarks, and a personalised roadmap forward.

Prevention is just as important as recovery. Our Pre-Season Screening can help athletes identify weaknesses, imbalances, and risk factors before they become problems.

Using VALD ForceDecks and Dynamo, combined with aerobic and strength testing, we can design individualised conditioning programs to optimise performance and reduce injury risk.

This is suitable for everyone, from weekend warriors to elite competitors, and can be adapted for those with chronic conditions.

Ready to take the next step in your recovery or performance journey?

Book your Return to Sport Assessment or Pre-Season Screening today.

How long does a Return to Sport Assessment take?

The testing component usually takes 20–30 minutes. Including discussion of results and planning, you should allow 45–60 minutes for the full appointment.

Do I need a referral to book?

No referral is required. You can book directly online or by calling us.

How much does Return to Sport Testing cost?

Please see our Fees page for current pricing. Private Health Insurance rebates may apply depending on your level of cover. We also accept Medicare, DVA, and NDIS where eligible.

What should I bring or wear to the assessment?

Wear comfortable athletic clothing and supportive footwear. If you have any previous scans, surgical reports, or injury history documents, bringing them along is helpful.

Is this the same as a normal physiotherapy appointment?

No. While it is conducted by a physiotherapist, this is a specialised assessment using advanced VALD technology. It focuses on objective strength, power, and movement data rather than hands-on treatment (though treatment recommendations will be provided).

How soon after injury can I do Return to Sport Testing?

It depends on your stage of recovery. We can perform early-stage testing to benchmark progress, but the full return-to-sport clearance testing is usually done in the later stages of rehabilitation when you are already training or close to returning.

What if I’m not currently injured but want to prepare for the season?

We offer Pre-Season Screening & Performance Testing for exactly this purpose. It’s ideal for identifying risk factors and building a targeted conditioning program before the season starts.

Will I receive a written report?

Yes. You will receive a clear, detailed report summarising your results, comparisons to normative data, and specific recommendations.

Can I combine this with treatment on the same day?

In most cases, yes. Let us know when booking if you would like to add manual therapy or rehab exercises after the testing.

Other Physiotherapy Services Available at Active Balance

Vertigo & BPPV Treatment

Treatment for dizziness and vertigo with targeted, evidence-based treatment.

Concussion Management

Expert guided recovery to help you return to work, school, and sport safely.

Supervised Injury Rehab

Tailored rehab in our fully equipped gym to restore movement, strength, and confidence.

Sports Injury Rehab

Get back to your sport stronger with tailored rehab and performance support.

Running Assessments

Comprehensive running analysis to help you move better, run further, and reduce injury risk

Athlete Tune Up

Hands-on treatment to reduce tension, address imbalances, and help you train and recover better.