Daniel Elias

Daniel is a highly experienced Physiotherapist having worked within the NHS, private practice and within elite sport with over 15 years clinical experience. Dan works as a Physiotherapist  for the England Athletics team both nationally and internationally from Under 13 to Under 20 age groups, assessing and treating young athletes as well as communicating with parents and coaches on ongoing management. Dan is also the clinic director of the Youth Physiotherapy Clinic in Bath treating 8-18 year olds and works at Balance Performance Physiotherapy in London as a consultant youth physiotherapist.  Alongside his clinical work, Dan has lectured within the youth athletic field having presented on topics including ‘Overtraining in the Youth Athlete’, ‘Common Injuries in the Adolescent Athlete’  and ‘Knowing the norm in the young sporty child’.

In episode 76 of the podcast, we engage with Dan Elias, a seasoned physiotherapist with over 15 years of experience, specializing in youth athletes. Dan works with the England athletics team and runs the Youth Physiotherapy Clinic in Bath, focusing on athletes aged 8-18. During the episode, Dan discusses his journey into youth physiotherapy, emphasizing the unique approach required for treating young athletes compared to adults. He highlights common misconceptions about physiotherapy for children and the importance of adapting communication and treatment strategies to suit their developmental needs.

Dan elaborates on the challenges of managing injuries during growth spurts and the significance of bone health and appropriate strength training for young athletes. He also addresses the phenomenon of overtraining, offering insights into recognizing early signs and mitigating risks through proper rest, nutrition, and diversified physical activities. The conversation underscores the role of fun and engagement in rehabilitation and the necessity of establishing healthy long-term habits for injury prevention. Dan stresses the importance of understanding each child’s unique circumstances and fostering a supportive environment that encourages confidence and communication. The episode is a comprehensive discussion on the nuances of youth physiotherapy, offering valuable insights for parents, coaches, and practitioners involved in youth sports.