Sports Injuries Specialists

What are the different types of sports injuries?

The different types of sports injuries include:

Fractures

A fracture refers to a broken bone. Fractures can occur as the result of a sudden injury like a fall or forceful impact. Fractures can also develop as a result of repeated overuse. Not all fractures break completely or protrude through the skin. You can develop small hairline cracks in your bones, known as stress fractures, or experience a fracture that stays beneath the skin (a closed fracture).

Sprains

A sprain occurs when your ligaments become overstretched or torn. Ligaments are a type of connective tissue that holds together your joints, bones, and cartilage. Sprains most commonly affect the ankles, wrists, and knees.

Strains

A strain is a type of injury that occurs when your muscles or tendons become overstretched or torn. Strains are caused by repetitive stress or pushing your muscles or tendons beyond their limits. There are a number of different types of strains, including tennis elbow, runner’s knee, and lumbar strains. Strains can cause a number of concerning symptoms, including muscle spasms, muscle weakness, and swelling.

Dislocations

A dislocation is an injury that occurs when one of your joints is forced out of its normal position. Most dislocations come from extreme force. A dislocation is a painful injury that results in immobility and visible deformity of the affected joint. Dislocations are often difficult to differentiate from fractures, so if you experience symptoms, it’s important to seek medical attention for a proper diagnosis. 

How are sports injuries diagnosed?

In most cases, sports injuries gradually occur as a result of overuse. Overtraining, repetitive movements, and failure to warm up before physical activity can all put you at risk of injury. Sports injuries are also caused by sudden trauma like a fall or blunt force. 

If you experience symptoms of a sports injury, the orthopedic specialists at Perimeter Orthopaedics, PC can provide you with an accurate diagnosis and help you determine the most effective treatment of your condition. 

To perform your diagnosis, your doctor conducts a thorough evaluation including a physical exam, discussion of your symptoms, review of your medical history and imaging tests. Your doctor offers a number of convenient onsite diagnostics like MRIs, X-rays, and CT scans. 

How are sports injuries treated?

Treatment depends on your diagnosis and the severity of your injury. In most cases, sports injuries are effectively treated with conservative methods. Depending on your needs, your doctor may combine a number of conservative treatments like:

• Physical therapy
• RICE (rest, ice, compression, elevation)
• Regenerative medicine
• Activity restrictions
• Immobilization (splints or braces)

If your condition is severe or doesn’t respond to conservative care, your doctor may recommend surgery. The orthopedic surgeons at Perimeter Orthopaedics, PC specialize in a number of safe and effective minimally invasive procedures. To find out which treatment is right for your sports injury, call or book an appointment online today.