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Sports

Sports

Sports injuries occur when playing indoor or outdoor sports or while exercising. Sports injuries can result from accidents, inadequate training, improper use of protective devices, or insufficient stretching or warm-up exercises. The most common sports injuries are sprains and strains, fractures, and dislocations.


The most common treatment recommended for injury is rest, ice, compression and elevation (RICE).


Sports Injuries

Some common sports injuries can be managed using the RICE method:

  • Rest: Avoid activities that may cause injury.
  • Ice: Ice packs can be applied to the injured area to reduce swelling and pain. Ice should be applied over a towel to the affected area for 15-20 minutes four times a day for several days. Never place ice directly over the skin.
  • Compression: Compression of the injured area helps to reduce swelling. Elastic wraps, air casts, and splints can accomplish this.
  • Elevation: Elevate the injured part above heart level to reduce swelling and pain.
Preventing Sports Injuries
  • Follow an exercise program to strengthen the muscles.
  • Gradually increase your exercise level and avoid overdoing the exercise.
  • Wear properly-fitted protective gear such as elbow guards, eye gear, facemasks, mouth guards, and pads.
  • Ensure you wear comfortable clothes and athletic shoes before playing any sports activity.
  • Follow warm-up and cool-down exercises before and after sports activity to increase flexibility and reduce soft tissue injuries.
  • Avoid exercising immediately after eating a large meal.
  • Maintain a healthy diet to nourish the muscles.
  • Avoid playing when you are injured or tired; take breaks as needed.
  • Learn all the rules of the game you are participating in.
  • Ensure that you are physically fit to play the sport.
Foot and ankle Injuries
Foot and ankle injuries include the injuries in the leg below the knee and they are common while playing sports such as football, hockey, skating and in athletes. Treatment for some of these conditions may be orthotics, braces, physical therapy, injections or surgery. Common sports injuries include sprains and strains, ankle fractures, and Achilles tendinitis.
Shoulder Injuries
Severe pain in shoulders while playing your favorite sports such as tennis, basketball and gymnastics may be because of torn ligament in shoulder or shoulder dislocation. These may be caused by overuse of shoulder while playing sports. Simple pain or acute injuries may be treated with conservative treatment and chronic injuries may require surgical treatment.
Hip Injuries
Fractures of the femur bone, labral tear and hip dislocation are some of the common sports injuries affecting the hip. Hip joint bears more weight and is more susceptible for injuries while playing sports. Hip injuries require immediate medical intervention to avoid further complications. Rehabilitation programs and physical therapy is often recommended following the medical intervention where you need to perform certain exercises to strengthen the muscles and improve the movements.
Knee Injuries
Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is major stabilizing ligament in the knee which may tear with over use of knee for playing sports. The ACL has poor ability to heal and may cause instability. Other common sports injuries in knee are cartilage damage and meniscal tear. Knee injuries of sports may require surgical intervention that can be performed using open surgical or minimally invasive technique. Your surgeon will recommend you for physical therapy to strengthen your muscles, improve elasticity and improve the movements of the bones and joints
Sports Medicine Topics

Click on the topics below to find out more from the orthopedic connection website of American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons.

  • Exercises for Young Athletes: Follow an exercise program to strengthen muscles and improve performance.
  • Heat Injury: Stay hydrated, wear breathable clothing, and avoid excessive heat exposure during sports.
  • Muscle Contusion (Bruise): Apply ice, rest the affected area, and use compression to reduce swelling.
  • Muscle Cramp: Stay hydrated, stretch properly, and maintain electrolyte balance to prevent cramps.
  • Prevent Golf Injuries: Use proper form, warm up before playing, and strengthen core muscles.
  • Prevent Inline Skating Injuries: Wear protective gear like knee and elbow pads, and practice on smooth surfaces.
  • Prevent Scooter-Related Injuries: Always wear a helmet, check scooter brakes, and ride in safe areas.
  • Return to Play: Ensure complete recovery from an injury before resuming sports activities.
  • Shin Splints: Wear proper footwear, strengthen leg muscles, and avoid running on hard surfaces.
  • Skateboarding Safety: Wear a helmet, knee and elbow pads, and avoid risky stunts on uneven surfaces.
  • Sports Nutrition: Maintain a balanced diet rich in protein, carbs, and healthy fats for optimal performance.
  • Sprains and Strains: Rest, apply ice, and use compression bandages to aid recovery.
  • Stress Fractures: Avoid overtraining, wear supportive shoes, and allow adequate recovery time.
  • Women and ACL Injuries: Strengthen leg muscles, improve flexibility, and use proper landing techniques to reduce injury risk.
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