Most sports require fast and powerful movements that engage your muscles. While they can help you become stronger and healthier, they also carry a constant risk for injury. In particular, contact sports and those with a lot of jumping, running, and repetitive movements pose higher chances for injury. You could take some steps to avoid getting injured, but accidents can still happen. Fortunately, a sports medicine physician can help you with your injury.
1. Strains
A strain is the overstretching or tearing of a muscle or tendon — the fibrous band of tissue connecting muscles to bones. Also called pulled muscles, it usually happens in the hamstrings, groin, and lower back.
You may use the R.I.C.E. method to treat a pulled muscle. In addition, your provider may prescribe non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs, to help relieve pain and swelling.
2. Sprains
A sprain involves overstretching or tearing of the ligament, or the fibrous band of tissue connecting the bones within a joint. The common sites for sprains include the ankles, knees, wrists, and thumbs. Sprains are categorized into three types based on the severity:
- Grade 1 (mild sprain) – overstretched ligament
- Grade 2 (moderate sprain) – overstretched and partially torn ligament
- Grade 3 (severe sprain) – completely torn ligament
The R.I.C.E. method is also used for sprains. If needed, NSAIDs may also help to relieve the pain.
3. Shin Splints
Shin splints refers to pain along the shinbone or the large bone in your lower leg. It stems from overexertion and is commonly experienced by athletes who increase their workout intensity. Repetitive movements and intense exercise can lead the muscles and tendons around the shinbone to become inflamed and painful.
Shin splints may be alleviated by resting your legs and doing careful stretches and exercises. You can also apply ice over the injury to relieve pain and reduce swelling.
4. Tennis Elbow
Tennis elbow refers to pain on the outside of your elbow. It’s usually caused by repetitive movements or overuse of the wrist and arm. In some instances, the pain can extend to your forearm and wrist.
Physical therapy is a common treatment for tennis elbow. Your therapist will guide you through exercises and stretches to relieve pain and strengthen your arms. They may also look into your sports technique and form to help you avoid future injuries.
5. Dislocations
A dislocation happens when the bones in your joint are forced out of the socket. Dislocations experienced by athletes are usually caused by trauma or excessive force from contact sports or serious falls. Common dislocation sites include the jaw, shoulder, elbow, finger, hip, and knee.
The main treatment for dislocations involves manipulating the dislocated part back in place. You may also take medication to ease the pain and rehabilitation to aid in your recovery.
6. Fractures
Fractures pertain to the partial or total breaking of the bones. The injury is called an open fracture if a bone pierces through the skin. Otherwise, it’s called a closed fracture.
A cast or splint is usually used to restrict movement in the injured area and keep the bones aligned. Traction may also be used to stretch certain parts of your body to aid in the healing and alignment of your bones.
7. Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick ligament called plantar fascia on the underside of your foot. It results in heel pain and is commonly caused by excessive stress or inadequate foot support.
Physical therapy can be used to stretch and strengthen the plantar fascia, foot, and lower leg muscles. If needed, you may also use custom orthotics for adequate foot support, especially when exercising.
8. Achilles Tendinitis
Achilles tendinitis refers to the inflammation of the Achilles tendon or the large tendon in the back of your heel. It’s typically caused by repeated or intense stress to the heel and the Achilles tendon. Like plantar fascia treatment, rest may be recommended by your orthopedic doctor. Physical therapy and orthotics may also be advised.
9. ACL Injury
An ACL injury is the stretching or tearing of the anterior cruciate ligament. It’s the ligament that controls the forward and backward motion of the knees. The injury commonly happens when an athlete pivots or comes to a stop abruptly. ACL damage is also categorized as Grade 1 to 3, like sprains.
Your orthopedic specialist may recommend rest, the use of braces or splints, and physical therapy. In more severe cases, surgery may be recommended to repair the damage.
10. Concussion
A concussion is a traumatic brain injury caused by a blow to the head. It can also be caused by a hit to the body that causes your head to shake rapidly. Concussions may cause headaches, nausea, vomiting, and other symptoms.
Rest, both physical and mental, is a crucial point of treatment for concussions. You may also take medication to relieve the pain. As you recover, your provider will guide you to return to your normal activities gradually.
Sports Medicine Physician In Naples, FL
Whether you’re a professional or recreational athlete, you’re almost always exposed to a risk of injury. It’s crucial that you get the appropriate treatment for your injury. When in doubt or if you want to receive prompt treatment, you may want to consider going to a sports medicine physician.
If you’re looking for a sports medicine physician in Naples, look no further than the Joint Replacement Institute. Our board-certified and fellowship-trained providers can give you the comprehensive treatment you deserve. To know more about our services, you may call our friendly staff at (239) 261-2663. To schedule a consultation, you may use our online appointment request form. We look forward to serving you!
