Master in Sports Injury Rehabilitation

Master in Sports Injury Rehabilitation

Modality Semi‑presential	Edition 2nd
Schedule October 2026 - May 2027	Location Manresa – Terrassa
Duration 60 ECTS	Language Catalan and Spanish
Tuition fee 4,140 €	Places 20

Programme description

Sports injury rehabilitation is a key discipline within the fields of health and sports performance. It lies at the intersection of physiotherapy and strength and conditioning, and plays a crucial role in ensuring a safe and effective return to sport after injury.

An increasing number of sports clubs, health centres and sports organisations are integrating specialised rehabilitation professionals into their multidisciplinary teams, responding to the growing demand for more specific and individualised interventions.

The Master’s Degree in Sports Injury Rehabilitation was created in response to this growing need, with the goal of training rehabilitation specialists capable of integrating clinical knowledge with strength and conditioning principles to optimise the athlete’s functional recovery, from the post‑injury phase to a safe and efficient return to competition.

Why might this programme interest you?

To specialise as a sports rehabilitation professional, acquiring the skills needed to work within multidisciplinary teams and in high‑performance or general sports environments.
Because this is a specialised postgraduate programme that connects physiotherapists and strength & conditioning coaches with expert lecturers linked to renowned centres and clubs.
The on‑site seminars are delivered in hybrid format between UManresa and NEXT Terrassa, a centre specialising in sports rehabilitation.
The programme offers an integrated training experience in which all modules are interconnected; a journey where professionals apply what they learn at every stage in a transversal way, following a clear and safe clinical methodology.
The postgraduate programme does not require compulsory external placements, but it includes real clinical cases and teaching staff who work directly in reference clubs and centres, facilitating valuable networking opportunities during the on‑site seminars.
It also provides the opportunity to take part in the NEXT MOVE project, which monitors and evaluates elite athletes throughout the season as part of a research initiative.

Co‑organised by:

Student testimonials – Discover the programme

Testimonial

"This master’s programme will provide you with a clear methodology for addressing sports injuries, from the initial stages to the athlete’s return to competition as a rehabilitation specialist."
Enric Grau Calderón Coordinator of the Master’s Degree in Sports Injury Rehabilitation

General information

Target audience

Graduates in Physiotherapy and/or Sport and Exercise Sciences (CAFYD)

Modality

Semi‑presential

Credits

60 ECTS

Schedule

October 2026 – May 2027

Timetable

On‑site classes on Fridays from 3 pm to 8 pm, and on Saturdays from 9 am to 1 pm and from 3 pm to 7 pm

Language

Catalan and Spanish

Location

UManresa
Manresa Campus of the University of Vic – Central University of Catalonia
Av. Universitària, 4–6
08242 Manresa (Barcelona)

NEXT Terrassa
C. Prat de la Riba, 88
08222 Terrassa (Barcelona)

Accreditation

University of Vic – Central University of Catalonia

Tuition fee

4,140 €

Discounts and financial benefits

10% discount for UVic‑UCC alumni.

This training may be eligible for company funding through the State Foundation for Employment Training (FUNDAE). Alternatively, if the programme is completed during working hours, companies may obtain salary‑cost reimbursement for the hours employees dedicate to training through the Individual Training Permit (PIF).

Syllabus

Module 1. Foundations of Recovery and Rehabilitation Processes

Introduction. Principles of recovery, rehabilitation, return to practice (Return to Practice) and return to competition (Return to Play).
Stages of functional recovery: from injury to return to competition. The hero’s journey (The Hero with a Thousand Faces).
Competency framework of the rehabilitation specialist within the interdisciplinary team. The orchestra concept according to the Shared Decision-Making Model in Return to Play (SDM‑RTP).
Biological and physiological foundations of tissue regeneration. Principle of organic systems, from Aristotle to Lewis Thomas (The Lives of a Cell).
Adaptation, de-adaptation and re-adaptation to sports movement and load (Physical Stress Theory).
Pathophysiology of limb injuries.
Presentation of the Master’s Final Project. Objectives and proposal.
Supervision of clinical cases through psychological support.
Common mistakes in the emotional management of injured athletes.

Module 2: Introduction to Strength Training

Basic concepts of strength training. Simplification paradigm: the elephant. Neuromuscular adaptations. Types of muscle contractions. Power. Structure of a session.
Introduction to movement construction. Muscles vs. Movements. Adaptation, assimilation and movement.
Foundations of movement construction. Progressions and regressions. Joint by Joint concept.
Strength training applied to the trunk and stability (core training). Introductory exercises and progressions. Classification proposal.
Functional training of the lower body. Movement patterns of the lower extremity: hip- and knee-dominant patterns.
Functional training of the upper body. Upper body movement patterns: pull and push.

Module 3: Use of Assessment and Measurement Tools

Functional assessment and objective measurement of sports recovery. Why do we measure?
Measurement systems and applicability in injury rehabilitation.
Field tests and specific evaluations by pathology and sport.
Analysis of sports movement and detection of mechanical alterations.
Indicators for safe return to sports activity.
Design and implementation of evidence-based assessment protocols.
Assessment of the athlete’s psychological state and perceived recovery. Detection of risk factors in the final stages of rehabilitation.

Module 4: Sports Rehabilitation of Upper Limb Injuries

Management of shoulder injuries: pathophysiology, risk factors, rehabilitation strategies, assessment and progression criteria.
Muscle and tendon injuries of the rotator cuff. Full rehabilitation protocol for sports movement. Load management.
Management of epicondylalgia through active treatment. Functional approach and progressive strengthening programmes.
Injuries and instabilities of the wrist and hand in sports.
Specific rehabilitation for throwing, contact and racquet sports.

Module 5: Sports Rehabilitation of Lower Limb Injuries

Management of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries: pathophysiology, surgery, rehabilitation protocols and progression criteria.
Other traumatic knee injuries: meniscus, collateral ligaments, patellar dislocation and cartilage injuries.
Management of pubalgia: aetiology, classification and intervention until return to competition.
Muscle injuries (hamstrings, quadriceps, adductors and triceps surae): classification and management according to recovery and rehabilitation phases.
Lower limb tendinopathies: patellar tendon, Achilles tendon and gluteus medius. Action protocols and load management. Sports rehabilitation programmes.
Traumatic injuries and ankle instability: sprains, ATFL injuries and osteochondral lesions.
Load progression planning and return-to-sport criteria for lower limb injuries.

Module 6: Master’s Final Project

NEXT MOVE and how to measure in elite sport.
Research methodology and scientific evidence.
Research design.
Types of studies.
Qualitative and quantitative methodology.
Problem statement.
Research design development.
Data collection.
Data processing.
Defence of the Master’s Final Project.

Skills

Transfer advanced knowledge of anatomy, physiology, biomechanics and tissue regeneration into the planning of the sports rehabilitation process leading up to return to competition.
Identify and analyse musculoskeletal injuries, assessing their functional impact using objective tools and specific tests to establish progression criteria.
Develop functional diagnoses based on clinical reasoning, movement analysis and critical interpretation of clinical and performance indicators (SDM‑RTP).
Design, plan and implement individualised rehabilitation and strength‑training programmes, integrating safety, load management, sport‑specific requirements and scientific evidence.
Continuously evaluate the athlete’s progress using functional protocols, objective indicators and field tests, adjusting the intervention according to efficiency, effectiveness and prevention of relapses.
Apply advanced skills in sports‑movement analysis, movement control and specific progressions based on motor patterns, including the Joint by Joint concept.
Work collaboratively within multidisciplinary teams, contributing to shared decision‑making focused on the athlete’s health and performance.
Design, develop and communicate applied or research projects in sports rehabilitation, integrating scientific methodology, critical analysis and transfer to professional practice.

Job possibilities

Improve clinical or sports practice in order to provide specific, safe and effective care to injured athletes.
Manage the entire rehabilitation process, from the initial phases through to the return to competition.
Integrate into multidisciplinary teams within sports clubs, health centres, sports medicine units or private practices.
Collaborate closely with professionals in medicine, strength and conditioning, psychology, physiotherapy and other performance and health‑related fields.
Design and implement functional rehabilitation protocols for muscle injuries, tendinopathies and common joint pathologies.
Create strong links between physiotherapy, strength and conditioning, and medical care to optimise recovery.
Actively participate in relapse prevention and injury prevention through sports‑movement analysis and functional assessment.
Optimise training load to improve both safety and athletic performance.

Learning resources

UManresa Campus Classrooms

All classrooms are equipped with computers, a projector, screen, speakers and wifi connection.

Gym located in the FUB3 Building
Theory classroom in the FUB2 Building
150 m² rehabilitation gym.
Gym equipped with state-of-the-art material and technology for sports rehabilitation and functional assessment, including VALD measurement systems (ForceDecks, ForceFrame and Dynamo), Blood Flow Restriction equipment, STRIDE functional assessment stations, ultrasound scanner and treatment tables.

Study rooms

UManresa has two study rooms with computers and wifi connection, both of which have internet access. The rooms are equipped with tables and chairs that allow for both individual and group work.

Library

https://bibliotecnica.upc.edu/bcumManresa University Campus Library

Virtual spaces

Students have access to

Virtual Campus, through which they can access programme documentation.
Moodle platform as the virtual learning environment for all subjects in the programme, accessible via the intranet.

Calendar and timetables

From October 2026 to May 2027

23 and 24 October 2026: Foundations of recovery and rehabilitation processes.
20 and 21 November 2026: Introduction to strength training.
11 and 12 December 2026: Use of assessment and measurement tools.
15 and 16 January 2027: Rehabilitation of upper limb injuries.
12 and 13 February 2027: Rehabilitation of upper and lower limb injuries.
5 and 6 March 2027: Rehabilitation of lower limb injuries.
9 and 10 April 2027: Rehabilitation of lower limb injuries.
14 and 15 May 2027: Master’s Final Project defences.

Timetable

On-site classes on Fridays from 3 pm to 8 pm, and on Saturdays from 9 am to 7 pm

Professorship

Enric Grau Calderón

Physiotherapist. Master’s Degree in Neuromusculoskeletal Physiotherapy (UNIR). Lecturer at the Faculty of Health Sciences at UManresa – UCC and in other professionally oriented postgraduate programmes. Specialist in sports knee injuries. Co‑founder of NEXT. Author of the book “I’ve torn my knee: now what?” (2022). Speaker at the International Physiotherapy Congress of the Physiotherapists’ Association and invited speaker for the Catalan‑Balear Physiotherapy Society of the Academy of Medical and Health Sciences of Catalonia and the Balearic Islands.

Jordi Lázaro Reina

Strength and Conditioning Coach and Rehabilitation Specialist. Bachelor’s Degree in Sport and Exercise Sciences (INEFC – University of Barcelona). Master’s in High Performance in Team Sports. Lecturer at the Catalan School of Sport and several sports federations. Specialist in high performance. Co‑founder of NEXT. Strength and Conditioning Coach for the Spanish Senior Women’s National Field Hockey Team during the Olympic cycle RIO 2016 to TOKYO 2020, and for the Men’s Senior National Team from TOKYO 2020 to PARIS 2024.

Pau Martínez Martínez

Physiotherapist. Master’s Degree in Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy. Professional experience in musculoskeletal physiotherapy and sports rehabilitation. Member of VALD Performance, delivering training on functional assessments and human measurement technology. PhD candidate focusing on anterior cruciate ligament and knee injury research. Lecturer in the Physiotherapy degree at UManresa and member of the “Sport, Exercise and Human Movement (SEaHM) Research Group” at UVic‑UCC.

Núria Carnicero Campmany

Physiotherapist. PhD from the Faculty of Medicine of the Autonomous University of Barcelona. Member of the Spanish Association of Hand and Upper Limb Therapists. Member of the Hand and Upper Limb working group of the General Council of Physiotherapists of Spain, representing the autonomous community of Catalonia. Speaker at the IFSSH‑IFSHT International Hand Surgery and Therapy Congress in the USA, the FESSH‑EFSHT European Hand Surgery and Therapy Congress in Italy, and the IRCRA International Rock Climbing Research Congress in Switzerland. Former President of the National Hand Therapy Congress AETEMA together with SECMA (Sitges 2024). Member of the physiotherapy team of the Spanish National Competition Climbing Team of the Spanish Federation of Mountain and Climbing Sports (FEDME) since 2019.

Quim Moreno Pujol

Strength and Conditioning Coach and Sports Rehabilitation Specialist. Bachelor’s Degree in Sport and Exercise Sciences, with a specialisation in performance and health (INEFC Barcelona). Specific training in various technologies for training and rehabilitation (VBT, Chronojump, force platforms, etc.). Head of the Training and Sports Rehabilitation Department at NEXT. Lecturer in postgraduate programmes focused on the management of anterior cruciate ligament injuries and return‑to‑sport processes.

Àlex Sala Carbonell

Physiotherapist, graduate of the Autonomous University of Barcelona. Master’s Degree in Team Sports Physiotherapy (Blanquerna URL – Barça Innovation Hub). Clinical practice at NEXT, focused on sports recovery and rehabilitation processes. Associate lecturer in the Physiotherapy degree at the Faculty of Medicine of the Autonomous University of Barcelona. Trainer in the “Cruzadoanterior” project, dedicated to training physiotherapists and coaches in anterior cruciate ligament injury management. Specialist in sports injuries.

Priscilla Jarrín Jacome

Sports and Exercise Medicine Doctor, trained at the Central University of Ecuador (2017) – United States Medical Licensing (2019). Master’s Degree in Team Sports Medicine: University of Barcelona – FC Barcelona (2019–2020). Master’s in Physical Activity and Health, specialisation in Exercise Prescription: University of Barcelona – INEF (2020–2021). Certified in BLS with AED (IEM). Team Sports Physician Essential Concepts Online Certificate: Barça Innovation Hub (2019). FIFA Medical Certificate.

Hibai Txurruka Artamendi

Physiotherapist. Master’s Degree in Neuromusculoskeletal Physiotherapy (UNIR). Teaching experience at the Faculty of Health Sciences at UManresa – UCC, the Physiotherapy degree at the Faculty of Igualada, and in various professionally oriented postgraduate programmes. Specialist in sports muscle and tendon injuries. Experience in the rehabilitation of elite athletes in international competitions.

Oriol Ventura

Physiotherapist and Strength and Conditioning Coach. Graduate of the National Institute of Physical Education of Catalonia and Master’s in Physical Activity and Health with a specialisation in rehabilitation and sports reconditioning. Member of the Professional Association of Strength and Conditioning Coaches. Graduate in Physiotherapy from the International University of Catalonia. Coach of high‑performance tennis players, having supported hundreds of players in their development across all aspects of the game.

Adrián Castillo

PhD in Health Sciences (University of Alcalá). Bachelor’s Degree in Sport and Exercise Sciences (Polytechnic University of Madrid). Master’s Degree in Integrative Physiology (University of Barcelona). Founder of METHUB.

Ana Merayo

Sports psychologist specialising in high performance, with more than 20 years of experience in elite clubs, national teams and international organisations. PhD in Psychology with a specialisation in sleep and health in professional athletes. Trainer in universities, master’s programmes and high‑performance centres, with an integrative, ethical and human‑centred approach to sport. Former Head of Sports Psychology at the Consell Català de l’Esport, and Head of Psychology and Tutoring at FC Barcelona (2010–2023). Sports psychologist at Hospital Clínic – Sant Joan de Déu (Sports Medicine Unit) and at the Spanish National Swimming Team and Spanish Women’s National Field Hockey Team. Psychologist at CNAB and CN Sant Andreu. Consultant in international projects (UEFA, NBA, Rafa Nadal Academy, Nicaragua).

Alba Hernández

Graduate in Sport and Exercise Sciences from the University of Girona, Postgraduate Degree in Sports Injury Rehabilitation from UManresa‑UCC, and Master’s Degree in Neuro‑rehabilitation from the GUTTMANN Institute. Specialist in upper‑limb sports injury rehabilitation.

Personal trainer, graduate in Sport and Exercise Sciences from INEFC Barcelona and Master’s in High Performance in Team Sports. His professional career has led him to work in both grassroots and elite athletics, including participation in training camps with the Royal Spanish Athletics Federation.

Josep Lluís Cabré

Degree in Medicine from the University of Barcelona (1998–2004). Specialist in Orthopaedic Surgery and Traumatology. Resident doctor (MIR) in Orthopaedic Surgery and Traumatology (2010). Final MIR Examination in Orthopaedic Surgery and Traumatology, 6th Edition (Madrid, September 2010). Interuniversity Master’s Degree in Sports Traumatology (Autonomous University of Barcelona, 2011–2013). Specialist consultant in Orthopaedic Surgery and Traumatology at Mútua Terrassa University Hospital, Knee Unit.

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Frequently Asked Questions about the Postgraduate Diploma in Sports Injury Rehabilitation

1. What is the format of the Postgraduate Diploma in Sports Injury Rehabilitation?

The format is blended, allowing working professionals to combine it with their schedules. It is a programme with a strong practical and clinical focus. The goal is for flipped classroom learning to prepare students for in-person seminars, which will be 100% practical. Asynchronous sessions will include different types of content: studio-recorded lectures with theoretical content, lecture notes prepared by faculty, reference materials, and more.

2. Does the curriculum focus only on rehabilitation, or also on prevention?

The Postgraduate Diploma in Sports Injury Rehabilitation primarily focuses on sports injury rehabilitation, but it also covers concepts such as pathophysiology, injury prevention, and other areas relevant to rehabilitation. While the main emphasis is on injury management, the programme provides a solid overall framework. That is why our faculty includes sports doctors, trauma specialists, physiotherapists, rehabilitation experts, and strength & conditioning coaches.

3. How is the Postgraduate Diploma assessed?

The final project carries significant weight in the assessment, but we also include small tests to integrate theoretical and practical concepts at the end of each module. The teaching team is committed to providing a learning experience focused on both professional expertise and specialisation.

4. Where will the seminars take place?

The seminars will be held at UManresa, NEXT (Carrer Prat de la Riba 88, Terrassa), and other necessary sports facilities. The seminars follow a blended and flexible format, adapted to the training needs of the programme.

5. Do I need prior experience in rehabilitation to enrol?

It is not essential to have prior professional experience in rehabilitation, but it is important to have training or experience in physiotherapy or strength & conditioning. The content is structured progressively, and the practical format helps participants apply concepts from day one.

6. Can I take the diploma if I am only a strength & conditioning coach or only a physiotherapist?

Yes. The diploma is specifically designed to encourage collaboration between different but complementary professional profiles. Whether you are a physiotherapist or a strength & conditioning coach, you will gain tools to better understand the entire rehabilitation process and to work in an integrated way with other professionals. Thanks to this programme, you will qualify as a sports rehabilitation specialist.

7. What type of support will I receive during the course?

Each module will have a designated faculty member who will be available to answer your questions, and you will also have ongoing communication with the programme coordinators. In addition, there will be collective follow-up sessions and personalised support during the preparation of the final project.

8. How is the virtual classroom organised and how do I access materials?

The virtual classroom will be accessible at all times throughout the course, with an intuitive and user-friendly interface. You will have access to videos, readings, presentations, infographics, and more. Content will be released in phases, and you will have a suggested schedule to help you organise your work.

9. Are there internships or connections with sports clubs?

The programme does not include compulsory internships in external organisations, but you will work with real clinical cases, simulations, and instructors who are actively working in leading clubs and sports centres. In addition, you will have opportunities to build valuable professional connections during the in-person seminars.

Master in Sports Injury Rehabilitation