Common Sports Injuries and When to Seek Treatment

Have a sports injury? Improper gear, poor training practices, or accidents can cause sports injuries. Not warming up or stretching before sports injuryplaying sports or working out can also lead to sports injuries. Affiliates In Podiatry, which has offices in Meredith and Concord, NH, offers treatments for a variety of sports-related foot and ankle injuries.

 

Common Sports Injuries

Strains and sprains. The most common types of sports injuries are strains and sprains. A strain is a tear or stretch that happens in a tendon or muscle. A sprain is a stretched or torn ligament. Strains and sprains usually occur when you overuse or overstretch a muscle. The worse the strain or sprain, the harder it is to use the affected area. All strains and sprains should be evaluated by a medical professional.

Tendon injuries. Most tendon injuries occur near joints, such as the shoulder, knee, elbow, and ankle. Painful tendon injuries occur due to trauma, vigorous exercise, sprains and muscle imbalances. People who participate in softball, soccer, racquet sports, volleyball, or track and field are particularly susceptible.

Fractures. Fractures, or broken bones, in the ankle or foot are common. Broken bones in the ankle or foot cause pain and swelling. Fractures can result from a direct blow to the foot—such as dropping a heavy object on your toes. They can also occur due to the repetitive stress that comes with participating in high-impact sports like basketball. It is important to seek medical care any time you think you may have broken a bone in your foot or ankle.

Abrasions. Abrasions are wounds consisting of superficial damage to the skin. Abrasions can be caused by accidents, fighting, and sports injuries. Abrasions are less severe than lacerations, and bleeding, if present, is minimal. Mild abrasions, or scrapes, do not bleed or scar, but deep abrasions may lead to the formation of scar tissue.

Dislocations. A dislocation is an injury where a joint is forced out of position. Dislocated joints often are swollen and visibly out of place. A dislocation is painful and immobilizes the joint. Dislocations usually occur due to a fall or accident. Dislocations can be treated in a podiatrist's office.

 

When to Seek Treatment

You should see a podiatrist if your symptoms don't go away after rest and home treatment. A proper diagnosis is key to treating a sports injury. Your doctor will start with a physical examination, with attention given to the areas of complaint. You will also go through your medical history with your healthcare provider, they may order x-rays or other tests to confirm a diagnosis. Your podiatrist will develop a treatment plan that may combine more than one type of treatment, depending on your specific needs. Call today to make an appointment at Affiliates in Podiatry, PC: (603)-225-5281 for Concord, or (603)-279-0330 for Meredith.

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