Sports-related injuries occur frequently and affect athletes of all ages and from the recreational to the professional level. Sports injuries can occur from acute trauma (i.e. ligament injuries, fractures, dislocations) or develop gradually often from overuse (i.e. tendonitis, tendon tears). Risk factors for developing a sports injury include overtraining, undertraining, contact sports, lack of warm-up, and inappropriate use of exercise equipment. Sports-related injury can also simply be accidental. Sports-related injuries often significantly affect the ability to participate or perform in athletic activities which can affect all aspects of the athlete’s life. Regardless of the cause, sports-related injuries should be treated by a sports medicine expert that understands and uses the entire spectrum of both non-operative and surgical treatment options, understands the athletic mindset, and treats these musculoskeletal injuries with the goal to return the athlete back to his/her sport while also trying to prevent recurrent injury.
The most common acute treatment recommended for injury is rest, ice, compression and elevation (RICE).
- Rest: Avoid activities that may cause injury.
- Ice: Ice packs can be applied to the injured area which will help to diminish 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.
Common Sports-Related Injuries
Sports-Related Conditions
- Knee Injury
- Knee Ligament Injuries
- Articular Cartilage Injury
- Meniscal Injuries
- Runner’s Knee
- Patellofemoral Instability
- Patella Dislocation
- Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome
- Shoulder Injuries
- Rotator Cuff Tear
- Shoulder Dislocation
- Acromioclavicular (AC) Joint Dislocation
- Tendon Injuries / Tears
- Tennis Elbow
- Biceps Injuries
- Osteoarthritis
- Sprains and Strains
- Baseball and Shoulder Injuries
- Little League Shoulder
- Throwing Injuries of the Shoulder
- Injuries to Overhead Athletes
