October 24, 2016

Are sprains and strains just part of the game?

Sports Injury

THIS POST IS PART OF THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO SPORTS MEDICINE

Whether it’s volleyball, football, basketball or cross-country, it seems like every athlete experiences a sprained ankle or a strained muscle in their career. In fact these minor injuries involving muscles, ligaments and/or tendons, cause the majority of sports injuries.

Can injuries be avoided?

“These injuries include contusions, more commonly referred to as bruises, sprains and strains,” said Dr. Carlos Berrios, an OrthoIndy sports medicine and pediatric orthopedic specialist. “Sprains and strains are uncommon in younger children because their growth plates are weaker than the muscles or tendons, but as children become young adults, sprains and strains occur more frequently.”

A contusion (bruise) is an injury to the soft tissue often produced by a blunt force such as a kick or fall. The immediate result is pain, swelling and discoloration.

A sprain is a twisting injury or tear to a ligament. Sprains most often affect the ankles, knees or wrists. A strain is an injury to a muscle or tendon and is often caused by overuse, force or stretching.

How are sports injuries treated?

“Most contusions will go away on their own with minimal treatment,” said Dr. Berrios. “However, treatment plans for a sprain or strain will depend on the athletes age, overall health and medical history, the extent of the injury and the athlete’s tolerance for medications, procedures or therapies.”

Initial treatment for a sprain or strain is usually R.I.C.E. (rest, ice, compression and elevation). There are a few other treatment methods as well, depending on the severity of your injury.

  • Medications
  • Activity restrictions
  • Splint or cast
  • Crutches or wheelchair
  • Physical therapy
  • Surgery

“Contusions, sprains and strains usually heal quickly in children and adolescents,” said Dr. Berrios. “It is imperative that the adolescent follow the activity restrictions and rehabilitation programs to prevent re-injury.”

Most sports injuries are due to traumatic falls or overuse of muscles and joints. Many sports injuries can be prevented with proper conditioning and training, wearing appropriate protective gear and using proper equipment.

Learn more about sports medicine treatment at OrthoIndy.

Schedule an appointment

Your well-being is important to us. Click the button below or call us to schedule an appointment with one of our orthopedic specialists. If your injury or condition is recent, you can walk right into one of our OrthoIndy Urgent Care locations for immediate care. For rehabilitation and physical therapy, no referral is needed to see one of our physical therapists.

Schedule an Appointment Call OrthoIndy 317.802.2000

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