Sports Medicine
Sports injuries occur when playing indoor or outdoor sports or while exercising. Sports injuries can result from overuse, traumatic incidents, inadequate training, improper use of protective devices, or insufficient stretching or warm-up exercises. The most common sports injuries are sprains and strains, fractures, and dislocations.
The most common 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/cloth 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.
Some of the measures that are followed to prevent sports related injuries include:
- Follow an exercise program to strengthen the muscles
- Gradually increase your exercise level and avoid overdoing the exercise
- Ensure that you wear properly-fitted protective attire such as elbow guards, eye gear, facemasks, mouthguards, and pads, comfortable clothes, and athletic shoes before playing any sports activity which will help to reduce the chances of injury
- Make sure that you follow warm up and cool down exercises before and after sports activity. Exercises will help to stretch the muscles, increase flexibility, and reduce soft tissue injuries
- Avoid exercising immediately after eating a large meal
- Maintain a healthy diet which will nourish the muscles
- Avoid playing when you are injured or tired. Take a break for some time after playing
- Learn all the rules of the game you are participating in
- Ensure that you are physically fit to play the sport
Some of the common sports injuries include:
Knee Injuries
Sports injuries of the knee may result in bruising and pain, rupture of ligaments and tendons or even fracture of the bones of the knee. Other common sports injuries affecting the knee are cartilage damage and meniscal tear. Sports injuries of the knee may require surgical intervention that can be performed using open surgical or minimally invasive techniques. More commonly, non-surgical measures are employed in treatment. Your surgeon will recommend that you are assessed and treated by a physiotherapist. Surgeons at ‘The Cambridge Knee’ have good working relationships with local physiotherapists and will be able to advise you. This physical therapy should work to strengthen your muscles, improve control of movement and improve the flexibility of the joints.
Sports Medicine Topics
Click on the topics below to find out more from the Orthopaedic connection website of American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. You may find these resources helpful:
