Sports injuries
Recovery and Prevention
Playing sports is a great way to stay fit and have fun. Unfortunately, injuries can also occur while playing sports. Whether you are a professional athlete or just an enthusiastic athlete, it is essential to take up a sport well prepared and with the right knowledge. Therefore, be well informed and possibly guided. If you do suffer a nasty injury, an assessment by an orthopedic surgeon can help you make the right diagnosis and create a personalized treatment plan.
What are sports injuries?
Sports injuries generally refers to injuries that occur while engaging in sports activities. This can range from minor sprains and strains to more serious injuries that require surgical treatment (e.g., the anterior cruciate ligament in the knee). Sports injuries can occur in a variety of sports, such as soccer, tennis, running, basketball, etc. One sport may intrinsically carry more risk for sustaining serious injuries (high risk sports versus low risk sports). Soccer is more risky than running or swimming.
What sports injuries can be treated by an orthopedic surgeon?
Orthopedics is the medical specialty that deals with the treatment of disorders and injuries of the musculoskeletal system, such as bones, muscles, tendons and ligaments. There are several types of injuries that can be treated by an orthopedic surgeon. The following are some examples:
- Joint problems: conditions such as osteoarthritis, arthritis, bursitis and tendinitis. These conditions can cause pain, swelling and limited mobility. Treatment options range from physical therapy and medication to joint replacement surgery, such as knee or hip replacement.
- Sports injuries: orthopedics plays an important role in the treatment of sports injuries, such as sprains, tendonitis, torn ligaments (including anterior cruciate ligament) and meniscus injuries of the knee, for example.
How can an orthopedic surgeon help?
Diagnosis
When treating sports injuries, the orthopedic surgeon begins by making a diagnosis. This is done by conducting a comprehensive interview, performing a physical examination and reviewing X-rays or an MRI, for example.
Treatment
After making the diagnosis, the orthopedic surgeon will create a treatment plan tailored to the patient's specific needs. Treatment may include:
- Physical therapy: performing specific exercises and training to improve strength, flexibility, mobility and load capacity.
- Medication: prescribing painkillers or anti-inflammatory drugs to reduce pain and inflammation to improve movement.
- Surgery: when the above do not provide sufficient relief, surgery may be necessary. Consider meniscus or cruciate ligament reconstructions, for example.
Recovery and Prevention
The orthopedic surgeon, in collaboration with a sports physical therapist or sports physician, can also advise on how to promote recovery and prevent future injuries. A/our joint consultation is a great example of this. (There should be one in the future, of course)
Conclusion
Coping and returning after suffering a sports injury can be quite challenging and have a big impact on your life. With help and care from the right people in the right place, together we can make every effort to get you back to your favorite sports activities as best as possible. Whether it's a sprained ankle, tennis elbow or torn cruciate ligament, our orthopedic sports care offers high-quality, personalized treatment with no waiting lists. Contact Flexclinics to discuss the best treatment options for your specific sports injury and get back to an active and healthy life.
