There are a few different kinds of orthopedic doctors who can provide a variety of specific treatments and services to their patients, and sports medicine doctors are among the top examples. Sports medicine specialists can treat a wide range of different injuries or related issues that relate to sports and similar activities, whether sustained by high-level athletes, casual players and everyone in between.
At The Orthopaedic Center, we’re proud to offer the best sports medicine services available around Tulsa, with sports medicine specialists who are experienced in the treatment of numerous different kinds of sports injuries or similar issues. While this is far from an exhaustive list, here are some of the most common kinds of injuries that our sports medicine specialists treat regularly.
General Strains and Sprains
On the milder end of the spectrum, some of the most common sports-related injuries are strains and sprains. Strains involve the overstretching or tearing of a muscle or tendon, while sprains are the result of stretched or torn ligaments. These injuries can occur in any sport that involves sudden movements, changes in direction, or physical contact with other players.
For instance, it’s common for basketball players to experience sprained ankles from jumping and landing on uneven surfaces, or for tennis players to suffer strained muscles from the repetitive motions of serving and hitting. These injuries can range in severity, but with proper treatment and rehabilitation, most athletes are able to fully recover and return to their sport.
Injuries from Contact Sports
Contact sports such as football, hockey, and rugby carry a higher risk of serious injuries due to the physical nature of these sports. From concussions to broken bones, athletes in contact sports are more likely to experience traumatic injuries that require immediate medical attention.
Bone fractures, for instance, are a common type of injury in contact sports. These can occur from direct impact or from overuse and stress on the bones. Fractures can range from minor hairline cracks to more severe breaks that require surgery.
Concussions, on the other hand, are a type of traumatic brain injury that is commonly seen in contact sports. These occur when there is a sudden blow to the head, causing the brain to move back and forth within the skull. Symptoms of a concussion may include headaches, dizziness, confusion, and memory loss.
Joint Dislocations
Another common injury in sports is joint dislocations, which occur when the ends of two bones that make up a joint are forced out of their normal position. This can happen from a sudden impact or from excessive twisting or bending of the joint. Joint dislocations are particularly common in contact sports such as football and rugby.
Symptoms of a joint dislocation include severe pain, swelling, and loss of motion in the affected joint. It is important to seek medical attention immediately if you suspect a joint dislocation, as further damage can occur if it is not treated promptly.
Ligament Tears
Some of the more severe joint injuries involve tears in the ligaments, which are the tough bands of tissue that connect bones and hold joints together. Ligament tears can occur from sudden twisting or over-stretching of a joint, often during sports activities.
The most common type of ligament tear is an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tear, which is a major stabilizing ligament in the knee. This injury is commonly seen in athletes who participate in high-impact sports such as basketball and soccer. Others include the medial collateral ligament (MCL) tear, which is commonly seen in football players, and the lateral collateral ligament (LCL) tear, which is less common but can occur from direct blows to the knee.
Hand or Foot Injuries
While areas like knees, ankles, and shoulders tend to be more prone to injury, the hands and feet are also susceptible. Hand injuries can range from sprains to fractures to dislocations, with the latter being more common in contact sports like football or rugby. Foot injuries often occur from repetitive stress such as running or jumping, and can include conditions like plantar fasciitis or Achilles tendonitis.
Preventing Injuries
While some injuries may be unavoidable, there are steps that athletes can take to reduce their risk of getting injured. These include proper warm-up exercises before activities, using appropriate protective gear such as helmets and pads, maintaining good form and technique while playing, and listening to your body’s signals for pain or discomfort. It is also important to gradually increase the intensity and duration of activities, rather than suddenly pushing your body beyond its limits.
In addition to physical preparation, maintaining a healthy diet and getting enough rest can also play a significant role in preventing injuries. Eating a balanced diet with plenty of nutrient-rich foods can help strengthen muscles and bones, while adequate rest allows the body to recover and repair itself after strenuous activity.
At The Orthopaedic Center, our team of sports medicine specialists is here to help with any sports injury around Tulsa or nearby areas. Contact us today for these or any of our other orthopedic doctor services!