What To Expect From Sports Injury Care

Sports injuries are common issues experienced by athletes of all skill levels. Proper sports injury care is essential for a safe and thorough recovery, whether the issue was caused by an acute accident or the result of repetitive strain. The following guide will provide an in-depth look into the typical stages of sports injury care, what you can expect throughout the healing process, and how this personalized treatment can help you regain your short- and long-term physical capabilities.

Initial assessment and diagnosis

After an injury, a medical professional evaluates the affected area. They ask the athlete detailed questions about how the injury happened, their symptoms, and their medical history. The practitioner may also incorporate diagnostic imaging tools such as X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans to gain a clearer view of the athlete's injury. Imaging tests are particularly important for injuries involving bones, ligaments, tendons, or muscles that may not be immediately visible through the initial physical examination.

In some cases, the medical professional may refer the athlete to a specialist for a more advanced evaluation and diagnosis. Ultimately, the goal of this stage in the sports injury care process is to understand the severity and nature of the injury and establish an appropriate treatment plan.

Treatment planning

Once the medical professional makes their diagnosis, the next phase in sports injury care involves creating a treatment plan tailored to the athlete's needs. Treatment plans vary on the type of injury, its severity, and the athlete's role in their sport. Common treatments in sports injury care include:

Rest and immobilization

For minor injuries like ankle or wrist sprains, rest and the immobilization of the affected area are often enough to promote healing. Sometimes, a brace, sling, splint, or cast may be necessary to ensure the injury does not worsen during recovery.

Medication

Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drugs and pain relievers can reduce swelling and relieve pain in minor sports injuries. However, some injuries, especially those with severe pain, may require prescription medications.

Regenerative medicine

This medical specialty uses the athlete's healing processes to repair or replace damaged tissues from sports injuries. Common techniques include platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy and stem cell treatment.

Physical therapy

Athletes recovering from strains, fractures, and ligament damage often benefit from physical therapy. A licensed medical practitioner guides patients through exercises aimed at restoring strength, flexibility, and range of motion to the injured area.

Surgical intervention

While noninvasive treatments are preferred in sports injury care, certain injuries may require surgery to correct the issue. Examples of such injuries include ligament tears (such as ACL injuries), severe fractures, and joint dislocations. When surgery is necessary, it is usually followed by an extended period of physical therapy and rehabilitation.

Rehabilitation process

This part of sports injury care is essential to a full, long-lasting recovery. It is designed to safely and gradually restore the athlete's physical function. The length and intensity of their rehabilitation will depend on the severity of the injury and the treatment plan. The process begins with pain management and reducing swelling. Rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE) may be used, along with medication. Their medical care provider may also introduce light exercises to maintain mobility without stressing the injured area.

As the injury begins to heal, the focus of rehabilitation will shift to restoring the athlete's strength and flexibility. Their provider will introduce more challenging exercises, such as resistance training and mobility work, to strengthen their muscles and support the injured area. Then, the provider will guide the athlete through sport-specific exercises to prepare their body for a return to regular physical activity. These exercises mimic the motions and stresses of their sport, allowing the athlete to safely recondition and avoid re-injuring themselves.

Prevention

In sports injury care, it is essential to work with athletes to prevent future injuries. Once the athlete is cleared to return to their sport, the provider will discuss preventive measures to minimize their risk of re-injury. They may recommend adjustments to their training techniques or strengthening exercises for vulnerable areas. The provider may also suggest investing in equipment and footwear meant to protect their body from further wear and tear.

Additionally, athletes should regularly undergo injury prevention education. This allows them to recognize early warning signs of sports injuries and how they can best respond. Proactively maintaining proper form, mobility, flexibility, and strength can also help reduce their risk of future injuries.

A sports injury care plan made with you in mind

No matter your injury or level of play, the Spine & Joint Regenerative Medicine team is here to provide sports injury care that is made with your needs in mind. We will work with you to ensure a complete recovery while preventing further complications. Call our Ooltewah office to learn more.

Request an appointment here: https://sjrm-tn.com or call Spine & Joint Regenerative Medicine at (423) 424-1529 for an appointment in our Ooltewah office.

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