3 Faqs About Sports Medicine And Sports Injuries

Whether you're new to sports or a seasoned pro, you need to protect your body from injury. Sports injuries, especially those involved in high impact sports, can cause major injury. If you would like to know more, check out these three commonly asked questions about sports medicine and injuries.

What Are the Most Common Sports Injuries?

There are many types of sports injuries, but some are more common than others. Some of the most common affect your legs and feet, such as an ankle sprain, hamstring strain, or shin splints. However, knee injuries are also incredibly common, such as ACL tears and patellofemoral syndrome.

If you play sports like tennis and golf, you may also suffer from elbow pain. This is commonly called tennis elbow, but it can be caused by any repetitive movement with your elbow, like repeatedly swinging a golf club.

High-intensity sports like hockey, soccer, football, and baseball have a high risk of groin injuries. This is caused when there is injury to the inner thigh muscles. Groin injuries are usually caused by side-to-side movements.

How Are Sports Injuries Treated?

There are many treatments for sports injuries, but first, you must follow PRICE therapy. This is much like RICE therapy, except it also includes protection. You need to protect the affected area and support it. This may mean wearing a brace or using crutches.

The rest of PRICE therapy includes the standard rest, ice, compression, and elevation. Pain can usually be managed with over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications, but corticosteroid injections may be needed for major pain.

Even after the area heals, however, you may need ongoing treatment to help regain mobility and functionality. This is where a physical therapist can help. They will teach you strengthening exercises that you can do at home. In some cases, surgery may be required.

How Can You Prevent Sport Injuries?

Luckily, there are some steps you can take to reduce your risk of a sports injury. One of the best ways to do so is by making sure you have strong muscles and good flexibility. This ensures you can do the moves you need to without pulling a muscle or tearing a ligament.

You can also benefit from taking time off from your sports regimen so you aren't playing every single day. Your body needs some time off to recover from minor damage caused during physical activity. Other tips include wearing the right gear, using the right technique, and stopping if you are in pain.

Don't put your body at risk when you play sports. By building strength and flexibility, you are better prepared to play sports. If you do experience a sport injury, it's important to rest immediately. If you would like to know more, contact a sports medicine doctor in your area today.

Share