The Protocol
What we test.
Force Plate Testing
Bilateral and unilateral force production. Limb symmetry index. Identifies strength deficits that prevent safe return.
Hop Tests
Single-leg hop for distance, triple hop, 6-meter timed hop. Standard ACL return-to-sport battery.
Strength Testing
Quadriceps and hamstring peak torque. Handheld dynamometry. Objective numbers, not visual estimation.
Movement Quality Screens
Functional movement patterns under load. Compensations that increase re-injury risk.
Sport-Specific Drills
Cutting, deceleration, directional change at sport speed. The actual demands of return, tested before return.
The Report
You leave with data. Not opinions.
Every Return to Sport test produces a full written report. Not a verbal summary at the end of the session. An actual clinical document you can share with your surgeon, coach, or athletic trainer.
Orthopedic surgeons across Charlotte refer specifically to Ironworks for this reason. They know the report will be objective, readable, and defensible.
Report Contents
- Objective test results with normative comparisons
- Limb symmetry index across all tests
- Pass/fail recommendation with clinical reasoning
- Specific deficits identified and corrective recommendations
- Timeline estimate for safe return if not yet cleared
- Summary written for referring physician or surgeon
Who It's For
Athletes who need certainty.
- →Post-ACL reconstruction (most common)
- →Post-ankle surgery or chronic ankle instability
- →Post-shoulder surgery (labrum, rotator cuff)
- →Any athlete cleared by a surgeon who wants objective confirmation
- →High school and college athletes returning from significant injury
- →Recreational athletes who want data before returning to sport
Physician Note
“Orthopedic surgeons across Charlotte refer specifically to Ironworks for Return to Sport Testing. They know the report will be objective, data-backed, and written for clinical use, not just a verbal opinion.”
Dr. Marcus Webb, DPT, SCS · Lead PT, South End
Ready to find out?
$350. Full battery. Written report. South End location.