Tag Archives: sports injuries

Injury Prevention

5 Basics of ACL Health and Injury

The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is one of the four major ligaments in the knee joint. It is crucial in providing stability and preventing excessive forward movement of the tibia (shinbone) relative to the femur (thighbone). ACL health and injuries are common, especially in sports involving sudden stops, direction changes, or jumping. 

Understanding the basics of ACL health and injury can help individuals recognize the importance of prevention and seek appropriate treatment. At Paris Orthopedics, we aim to give you the information you need to stay healthy and avoid injury. 

Basics of ACL Health and Injury

What Is The ACL?

The ACL is a strong band of connective tissue deep within the knee joint. It connects the femur to the tibia and works with other ligaments, muscles, and tendons to maintain stability during various movements. The ligament consists of two bundles that work together to control the rotational and forward movement of the knee.

How Do ACL Injuries Occur?

ACL injuries typically occur due to sudden, forceful movements or impacts that place excessive stress on the ligament. Common mechanisms of injury include sudden stops or pivots, abrupt changes in direction, landing awkwardly from a jump, or direct blows to the knee. Female athletes, especially those participating in sports like soccer, basketball, and gymnastics, have a higher risk of ACL injury than males.

When an ACL injury occurs, individuals may experience a popping sound or sensation in the knee, followed by immediate pain, swelling, and instability. The knee may feel weak and give way during movement, making it difficult to bear weight or participate in physical activities. In some cases, associated injuries, such as damage to the meniscus or other ligaments, may also occur.

What Does Treatment Look Like?

Diagnosing an ACL injury involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, and imaging tests. The healthcare provider will assess the knee joint’s range of motion, stability, and overall function. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may be recommended to evaluate the extent of the injury and rule out other knee conditions.

Treatment options for ACL injuries depend on various factors, including the severity of the injury, the individual’s activity level, and the presence of associated injuries. Non-surgical treatment may suit individuals with partial tears or those without high-demand activities. It typically involves physical therapy to strengthen the muscles around the knee joint, bracing to provide stability, and activity modification.

Surgical intervention may be recommended for individuals with complete tears or those wanting to return to high-demand sports or activities. ACL reconstruction surgery involves replacing the torn ligament with a graft, typically harvested from the individual’s hamstring or patellar tendon, or using donor tissue. The surgery aims to restore knee stability and allow individuals to return to their pre-injury level of activity with proper rehabilitation.

What Does Recovery Look Like?

Recovery from an ACL injury requires a comprehensive rehabilitation program. Physical therapy is vital in restoring strength, range of motion, and stability to the knee joint. The rehabilitation process typically includes exercises to improve flexibility, balance, proprioception, and gradual return to sports-specific activities.

How Can You Prevent These Injuries?

Preventing ACL injuries is crucial, particularly for individuals engaged in high-risk sports. Strategies for prevention include regular conditioning and strengthening exercises to improve lower limb strength and control, proper technique training for jumping and landing, and wearing appropriate protective gear. Additionally, maintaining good overall physical fitness, warming up adequately before activities, and avoiding overuse and fatigue can help reduce the risk of ACL injuries.

Learn More With Paris Orthopedics 

The ACL is a critical ligament in the knee joint, providing stability and preventing excessive forward movement. ACL injuries are common, particularly in sports involving sudden stops, changes in direction, or jumping. Understanding the basics of ACL health and injury empowers individuals to recognize the signs, seek appropriate treatment, and take preventive measures.

Are you interested in learning more about ACL health? Our team at Paris Orthopedics has an array of resources and information for you to use. Find out more by visiting our website or giving us a call at (903) 737-0000. 

General Ortho

The Importance of Proper Nutrition for Orthopedic Health

When we think about orthopedic health, our minds typically go to movement and exercise. However, proper nutrition plays just as significant a role as everything else. If your diet is not meeting your body’s nutritional needs, it will wreak havoc on your energy levels. When your internal health is not at its peak, there is no surprise that your external health is not 100% either. 

At Paris Orthopedics, we help you optimize your orthopedic health. However, a large part of that is ensuring that your proper nutrition is also where it needs to be. 

Proper Nutrition And Your Orthopedic Health 

Calcium for Strong Bones

Calcium is fundamental for building and maintaining strong bones. Adequate calcium intake helps prevent osteoporosis, a condition characterized by weakened bones and an increased risk of fractures. Good sources of calcium include dairy products (milk, yogurt, cheese), leafy green vegetables (kale, broccoli), and fortified plant-based milk alternatives. Aim for 1000-1300 mg of calcium daily, depending on age and gender.

Vitamin D for Calcium Absorption

Vitamin D works in conjunction with calcium to promote bone health. It facilitates calcium absorption from the digestive tract into the bloodstream, ensuring its availability for bone formation. Natural sources of vitamin D include sunlight exposure, fatty fish (salmon, mackerel), egg yolks, and fortified dairy products. In cases where vitamin D deficiency is present, supplements may be recommended.

Protein for Muscle Health

Protein is essential for the growth, repair, and maintenance of muscles and connective tissues. It provides the building blocks necessary for producing collagen, a protein that forms the structural framework of tendons, ligaments, and cartilage. Include lean protein sources such as poultry, fish, lean meats, legumes, nuts, and seeds. Aim for a balanced protein intake throughout the day to support muscle health.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids for Inflammation

Omega-3 fatty acids have anti-inflammatory properties that can benefit orthopedic health, especially for conditions like arthritis. These healthy fats help reduce joint inflammation and alleviate pain and stiffness. Good sources of omega-3 fatty acids include fatty fish (salmon, sardines), flaxseeds, chia seeds, walnuts, and soybeans. If it is challenging to incorporate these foods into your diet, consider omega-3 supplements after consulting with a healthcare professional.

Antioxidants for Joint Health

Antioxidants are crucial in protecting joint health by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation. Colorful fruits and vegetables, mainly those rich in vitamins C and E, are excellent sources of antioxidants. Include berries, citrus fruits, tomatoes, leafy greens, and bell peppers in your diet. Additionally, spices like turmeric and ginger have anti-inflammatory properties and can benefit joint health.

Micronutrients for Connective Tissues

Several micronutrients contribute to the health of connective tissues, including tendons, ligaments, and cartilage. Vitamin C is essential for collagen synthesis, while zinc and manganese support collagen production and help maintain connective tissue integrity. Citrus fruits, strawberries, bell peppers, whole grains, nuts, seeds, and seafood are good dietary sources of these micronutrients.

Hydration for Joint Lubrication

Adequate hydration is vital for maintaining healthy joints. Water helps lubricate the joints, allowing for smooth movement and reducing friction. It also aids in the transport of nutrients and the removal of waste products from the joints. Consistently drink sufficient water throughout the day, and consider consuming hydrating foods such as watermelon, cucumbers, and leafy greens.

Whether you are looking for new recipes to keep on the health track or haven’t quite discovered proper nutrition, we are here to help. Don’t let your orthopedic health suffer at the hands of your diet. Are you interested in learning more about how other health factors affect your orthopedic health? Our team is equipped to supply you with information and resources that give you a bigger picture. Check out our website or give us a call at (903) 737-0000 for more information.

Sports Medicine

5 Non-Surgical Treatment Methods For Sports Medicine

In the world of sports, injuries are inevitable. While some instances are bad enough to require surgery, this is not always true. Even as orthopedic surgeons, we always consider non-surgical treatment methods before moving toward an invasive procedure. 

Sometimes, people are only aware of surgical treatment methods and do not know as much about these other ways. However, today our Paris Orthopedics team is sharing the many ways you can treat sports injuries without going under the knife. 

Non-Surgical Treatment Methods 

Bracing

Bracing is the first non-surgical treatment method we will discuss today. The brace acts as a way to take the weight off of an injured area by restricting movement and relieving pressure. This promotes healing over time. This is commonly seen in injuries that affect the spine, knee, ankle, and elbow. 

Braces are often seen in sports as a treatment method while also acting as a way to injure oneself further. It is essential to listen to your orthopedic doctor’s recommendations on using the brace and follow the guidelines appropriately. 

Short-Term Medications

Sometimes, short-term medications can give you the pain relief necessary to treat your condition. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are useful. These provide relaxation for a patient by reducing inflammation, pain, and even fevers. However, they do not cure the condition that is bringing on the pain. They do provide relief while you are trying to figure out what else to do for the condition. 

Cortisone Injections

Cortisone injections are used to relieve pain and inflammation in the injured area of your body. This is most commonly seen in joints like the ankle, elbow, hip, knee, shoulder, spine, or wrist. While it can sometimes take a week to feel the relief of the cortisone shot, the effects can last months after the procedure takes place. 

These corticosteroids mimic the hormone cortisol your adrenal glands produce naturally. While these are sometimes shortened to be referred to as steroids, they do not have the same negative connotation that other types of steroids do for impacting an athlete’s performance at their sport.   

Physical Therapy

We are also huge fans of physical therapy as a non-surgical treatment method for athletes. Physical therapy can help the patient regain mobility and recover faster through movement. Oftentimes, your orthopedic doctor can refer you to a physical therapist they work with to find the ideal option for your scenario. 

Depending on the initial problem, the length of services and exercises one must do will vary. For example, someone with a leg injury will not do the same process as those with an injury in their arms. 

Viscosupplementation Injections 

These injections are typically seen as a treatment method for knee arthritis. However, this is often the last option after your doctor has tried other non-surgical methods. Hyaluronic acid is injected into the knee joint. This is a naturally occurring substance found in the liquid surrounding the joints.

People with arthritis in their knees tend to have less hyaluronic acid in their bodies already. Hence, the injections add to the present amount to facilitate more effortless movement for the joint. The amount of shots necessary depends on the person and situation. It requires avoiding strenuous activities 24 to 48 hours after the injection. 


Your sports’ related injury may not require surgery! By learning about other non-surgical methods of treatment, you can go into your appointment feeling confident. Finally, are you interested in seeking out one of these options for your injury? Schedule an appointment with our team today. Find out more through our website or by giving us a call at (903) 737-0000.

General Ortho

5 Of The Most Common Orthopedic Surgeries

Did you experience a slip or fall that has left you with a painful injury? Unintentional injuries account for 24.2 million emergency department visits each year. These include injuries ranging from strains, sprains, and dislocations to concussions and fractures, most of which affect the musculoskeletal system creating the most common orthopedic surgeries.

The musculoskeletal system includes the bones, cartilage, ligaments, tendons, joints, and bursae–the lubricated cushions between a bone and the surrounding soft tissue. 

When possible, non-surgical treatment methods are always preferred. However, in many cases, surgery is necessary to correct these orthopedic injuries. If you encounter an orthopedic injury that requires surgery, work with a team you can trust. Paris Orthopedics is here to help by starting with sharing the most common orthopedic surgeries with you. 

Partial Shoulder Replacement 

Shoulder replacement surgeries are significantly less common than knee or hip replacements. While they may be performed to treat an injury such as a severely torn rotator cuff, shoulder replacement surgeries are often used to relieve painful conditions such as osteoarthritis. A partial shoulder replacement, or hemiarthroplasty, is a procedure during which the head of the humerus bone (long bone in the upper arm) is replaced with a prosthetic ball, but the natural socket is left intact.

Total Shoulder Replacement 

In cases where the shoulder socket is affected, a total shoulder replacement is necessary. There are two different methods–traditional arthroplasty and reverse arthroplasty. In a traditional shoulder replacement surgery, the original ball-and-socket surfaces of the shoulder are replaced with similarly shaped prosthetics. During a reverse, the positions of the shoulder joint’s ball and socket are switched–the ball at the top of the upper arm bone (humerus) is replaced with a socket-shaped prosthetic, and the socket is replaced with a prosthetic ball.

Partial Hip Replacement 

Partial hip replacement surgery is often performed to repair certain hip fractures. Like the shoulder, the hip comprises a ball and socket joint. With a partial replacement, the femoral head (or ball) is removed and replaced with either a ceramic or metal ball attached to a metal stem. The stem called a hip implant, is set into the femur. The socket is left intact.

Total Hip Replacement 

The hip is one of the body’s largest joints, and hip replacement surgery is considered one of the most successful surgical procedures in all medicine. A total hip replacement includes replacing the femoral head (ball) and neck and removing any damaged cartilage in the pelvis. Three bearing surfaces are available for total hip replacements: a metal ball on the plastic liner, ceramic on ceramic, and metal on metal. Metal on highly cross-linked polyethylene (plastic) is the most recommended for durability. Around 98% of this type of replacement last around 20 years in young, active patients.

Total Knee Replacement 

Knee pain is among the most common causes of chronic pain in the United States. Joint replacement surgery is often recommended for those unable to perform everyday tasks, such as sleeping, without difficulty and pain. It may also be used to correct a knee deformity.

The procedure name, total knee replacement, can be misleading. Many people may not realize that the bones themselves are not actually replaced but instead their surfaces in these surgeries. The bones (tibia and femur) are prepared by removing damaged cartilage from their surfaces and a small amount of underlying bone. Metal implants are then used to recreate the surface. The patella (kneecap) is also resurfaced before a medical-grade spacer is inserted between the metal components. This space creates a smooth gliding surface to restore joint function.

Contact Paris Orthopedics

Have you experienced an injury that can’t be healed without surgery? It may be time to find an orthopedic surgeon you can trust. Paris Orthopedic and Sports Medicine’s board-certified physicians offer patients comprehensive orthopedic and musculoskeletal services. Our services include surgical and non-surgical treatments for sports injuries and a broad range of bone, muscle, and joint problems. For more information, visit our website to schedule an appointment or give us a call at (903) 737-0000.

General Ortho

Comparing Aerobic And Anaerobic Exercise

What is your favorite way to move your body? Maybe you love going on a run or spending the evening in a hot yoga studio. One of the best parts about exercise is how much variety there is. With this many options, there can be a lot of information to understand about each. One factor is to know whether the movement is aerobic or anaerobic exercise. This can help you complete and recover from the movement successfully. 

At Paris Orthopedics, we are accustomed to seeing how mistakes with movement can lead to injury. By taking the time to learn more about exercise, you can avoid being the newest patient to come in with an injury. Knowing the details of aerobic and anaerobic exercises can make your workout plan even more substantial. We would love to give you further information and resources! 

Aerobic and Anaerobic Exercise 

What Is Aerobic Exercise?  

Aerobic exercise is characterized by your muscles moving in a rhythmic and coordinated manner that produces an endurance-type movement. The name comes from the fact that oxygen is required to generate energy. There is an increase in a person’s heart rate and breathing that leads to more oxygen being brought to the muscles. The duration of these exercises tends to be longer. 

Examples of this type of exercise include running, biking, spinning, and even swimming. As you can see, there is a similarity in how these exercises can quickly pick up your heart rate and even leave you out of breath. 

What Is Anaerobic Exercise?  

Anaerobic exercises are more focused on short, intense bursts of physical movement. These movements are different from aerobic exercises as they do not require the same significant presence of oxygen. This is when there is a breakdown of glucose stores and a build-up of lactic acid in the muscles. These are shorter bursts of energy that occur more quickly. This is for people trying to build muscle mass and strength over time. 

Examples of this type of exercise are sprints, HIIT workouts, and weightlifting. These are done in smaller increments, but they build up that lactic acid in a way that still gives your body a very effective workout. A critical aspect of these types of workouts is ensuring you are doing them in the correct form. If you do these exercises with incorrect form, it may lead to an injury. 

How Are The Two Similar?

There are many differences between these two, but there are also similarities to consider. Both of these are beneficial for your cardiovascular system. They can each increase your metabolism and strengthen the heart muscle while also contributing to weight management. While helping with heart health, they can also contribute to preventing other conditions, such as diabetes and even certain types of cancer. 

The two of these are also great contributors to your mental health. When you are able to get your body moving, it can be stress relief while also giving your brain a break from the normal actions of the day. It is a great way to cope with stress from your day. 

Aerobic and anaerobic exercises can both play a significant role in your health and fitness. They are beneficial in their own unique ways. By understanding the two together and separately, you can create a plan that meets all of your goals. Do you have questions about either of these categories of exercise? Contact our team at Paris Orthopedics to find out more information and get started today. You can give us a call at (903) 737-0000 or check out our website for more information. 

Injury Prevention

8 Ways To Prevent Running Injuries

Looking for new ways to get outside this year? Running can feel hard on the body, but for many, the physical and mental health benefits far outweigh the potential risks. From shin splints and stress fractures to hamstring issues and Achilles tendonitis, there are numerous ways to encounter a problem, either during or after your run. However, our Paris Orthopedics team has devised a list of eight ways to prevent running injuries, keeping you active and exploring. 

Invest In The Right Shoes

Don’t let sticker shock deter you from investing in proper footwear. It’s best to visit a specialty running store to help you achieve the best fit for your body and needs. You should have a little wiggle room around the toes while your foot fits snugly in the heel. It’s also equally important to maintain your running shoes. Avid runners should replace their shoes every six months or every 400-600 miles.

Find The Right Path

High-quality, properly fitting running shoes will only get you so far. If possible, avoid running on concrete. Instead, opt for surfaces that absorb the shock rather than passing it along to your legs. Even asphalt is a better alternative if you can’t find grass, dirt trails, or a rubberized running track. But remember that a sudden change in the running surface can also cause injury, so transition over time versus all at once.

Spend Time Stretching

This may be obvious, but hands down, one of the best ways to prevent any bodily injury is to keep it loose and limber. The more flexible you are, the better your range of motion and the less likely you are to get injured. Stretch both before and after your run. You may also consider taking up yoga on days you don’t run to improve your flexibility and balance further.

Consider Strength Training 

Maybe you’re a runner because you don’t like traditional gym workouts, but the more powerful your muscles are, the better they can support your joints. Added benefits of strength training include improved muscle tone, endurance, and bone density. If the gym isn’t your thing, you can lift weights at home or use everyday household objects to help you build muscle.

Be Patient

If your goal is to run a 10K, but the furthest you’ve run is around the block, don’t expect to run six miles out of the gate. There’s no harm in taking it slow, especially when you’re starting. Starting with shorter runs and gradually increasing your distance over several weeks is the best way to prevent running injuries.

Check Your Posture

When you’re running, it’s easy to think about your legs and feet. But it’s also essential to pay close attention to your upper body. Get in the habit of checking your posture daily throughout your run. Are you staying upright with your shoulders back and relaxed? If not, raise your shoulders to your ears, then drop them down to a relaxed position. This can help you avoid lower back, neck, and shoulder pain and improve your breathing.

Keep Your Head Up

Maintaining your form is critical to preventing running injuries, including head positioning. Too far forward and you’ll experience neck and back pain; too far back and you may strain your neck muscles. Keep your head in line with your shoulders and hips. This is one of those running injuries that people tend to forget about in the process. 

Take Time To Rest

If you aren’t feeling 100%, consider skipping your run. Sure there are some days when you’ll have to talk yourself into getting out of bed for your morning run when the temperatures cool down, or maybe you stayed out too late the night before. But we’re talking about listening to your body when telling you it needs a break. Taking time off each week can help you avoid the most common running injuries and prevent fatigue when you push your body too hard or too fast.

 

Maintaining an active lifestyle is essential, but with it also comes the risk of suffering from a condition resulting from injury, disease, or the normal process of aging, disuse, or overuse.

Despite all of your best efforts to avoid them, the bottom line is that injuries can still happen–especially with the overuse and repetitive motion that occurs with frequent running. 

Schedule an appointment with Paris Orthopedics today if you are experiencing chronic pain or have injured yourself while running. Our team of experts specializes in diagnosing and treating running injuries and conditions, including knee ligament and tendon tears, ACL injuries, tendonitis, meniscus injuries, and more.

General Ortho

Golfer’s Elbow: What Is It And How Do I Treat It?

Golfer’s elbow, also known as medial epicondylitis, is a form of tendonitis. Its name stems from the fact that the condition is commonly associated with the movement included in swinging a golf club. However, it is not only a condition that affects golfers.  

Understanding Golfer’s Elbow

There is no reason to live with constant pain in any area of the body. At Paris Orthopedics, we can ensure that you receive a treatment plan that works to relieve the discomfort. First, we want to ensure you know what the condition golfer’s elbow is by answering some of the most commonly asked questions. 

What causes golfer’s elbow?

According to the Cleveland Clinic, golfer’s elbow is commonly caused by repeatedly using your wrist and arm to bend, grasp or twist things. This continuous action over time causes the tendons in the arm and elbow to have mini tears that lead to pain in the area.  

Who usually suffers from golfer’s elbow? 

As seen in the cause, those who usually suffer from golfer’s elbow are those who partake in activities that require those types of movements. While this can be people who frequently play golf, that is not the only demographic that is affected. 

According to the Mayo Clinic, people that participate in racket sports, throwing sports, weight training, and repetitive occupational movements are also often affected by this condition. 

What are the symptoms? 

The symptoms of golfer’s elbow are most frequently pain in the area between the wrist and elbow. This can lead to further pain in other areas of the body as the strain continues. You may also begin to notice weakness, pain, tingling, and stiffness in the tendons as well.  

How is it diagnosed?

Golfer’s elbow is diagnosed through the initial pain in a certain area of the arm. From here, the doctor is able to determine if this is golfer’s elbow, or medial epicondylitis. Once the doctor has determined this, they can create a course of treatment that can bring down your pain and discomfort. It is important to maintain these suggestions as it will only create large change if you stay consistent. 

If your elbow beings to look deformed, can’t bend, or is hot and inflamed, this means that it is time to see a doctor soon. It could get worse and bring more pain if you do not seek out medical attention.  

How is it treated?

The treatment of golfer’s elbow can present itself in a few different ways. The first step is to give your arm a break. You may think this means a short amount of time, but doctors commonly advise six weeks off before resuming the normal activities or sports. 

Can I prevent it beforehand?

There are preventative measures for golfer’s elbow. Ensuring that this muscle is properly warmed up is the first step to preventative measures. This can give the muscle a chance to act and strengthen rather than overworking it with repetitive movements. Along with that, you can, if possible, decrease the amount of that movement that is occurring. 

Is there anything else I need to know?

With this information, you can continue to participate in your activities in a way that keeps them from causing more harm. 


Make the pain of golfer’s elbow a thing of the past by understanding it. There are so many ways to find treatment and prevention to ensure you can go about your favorite activities without pain. Are you struggling with discomfort in your arm, specifically your elbow? It could be time to make an appointment at Paris Orthopedics to find the correct treatment plan for you. Check out our website or give us a call at (903)  737-0000 for more information.

Injury Prevention

7 Common Winter Sports Injuries

The winter season is full of various sports and activities to participate in. Whether it’s snow or ice, these seasonal sports give us something to look forward to in an otherwise cold and dark season. When it comes to winter sports, it’s easy for us to try and pick up where we left off last year without easing back into it, and being this overzealous can often lead to injuries. Even day-to-day activities can become compromised by snow and icy and cause an increase in visits to the E.R. Today we’re examining some of the most common winter sports injuries, and what you can do to prevent them from happening to you and your family.

1. Ankle Sprains and Fracture

It is estimated that around 25,000 people sprain their ankle each day, so it’s not surprising that this is one of the most common winter sports injuries. Ankle injuries typically occur while moving on slippery or uneven surfaces, so whether you’re playing a sport or simply walking down an icy sidewalk, it’s easy to see why winter weather can cause an increase in ankle sprains and fractures. 

If you injure your ankle, it’s a good idea to elevate the injury and to use ice packs to bring the swelling down. Although it may not seem too serious, it’s imperative that you keep weight off of the injury to avoid more serious issues down the line.

2. Concussion

Although helmets are not mandatory when it comes to winter sports, we highly recommend the use of them. Concussions can occur at any point in the year, but sports such as skiing, snowboarding, and ice skating definitely carry the risk of head traumas. In addition to wearing a helmet, ensure all of your winter equipment is in good condition before heading out.

3. Knee Injuries

Knees are used to absorbing the shock of most of our day to day activities like running and walking, but winter sports like skiing can put even more pressure on our knees as well as their joints and ligaments. To avoid falls that can put your knee in a compromising position, make sure that you’re practicing the safest technique that your sport requires. Lessons can teach the foundations of any sport that can ultimately prevent future injuries. 

4. Dislocated Shoulder

Both skaters and skiers are at risk of dislocated shoulders. This injury can occur when you fall from high heights, like after going off of a ski jump, or if you hit a hard surface like ice. If you dislocate a shoulder, it’s important to seek medical attention right away to prevent more serious issues such as a frozen or immobile shoulder. Paying attention to the weather forecast, and staying mindful of your experience level can help prevent injuries like dislocated shoulders.

5. Spinal Injuries

Spinal injuries can be painful, scary, and disruptive to your life. High-intensity sports carry a higher risk of spinal injuries, but even sports like sledding can cause back problems and injuries, especially when you’re snow tubing down a lope face-first. Avoid unforeseen obstacles in the snow by making sure you know your surroundings. It’s also a good idea to avoid engaging in any winter sport on your own.

6. Skier’s Thumb

Skier’s thumb occurs when a ligament is torn in the thumb. Skiing is one of the only winter sports that require regular use of the hands and the wrists while incorporating the use of poles, which makes this the second most common skiing injury behind knee sprains. 

7. Broken or Dislocated Elbow

Elbow injuries can occur when the elbow is impacted in a fall, or if it’s overused. If you use your hands and outstretched arms to break a fall, it’s not uncommon to push your elbow joint out of its normal position, causing a fracture or dislocation. Avoid muscle fatigue and strain by taking multiple breaks and letting your body recuperate after a long day out on the ice or in the snow.

No matter what winter sport you decide to participate in this year, make sure you take the necessary precautions to avoid these common injuries. A fresh blanket of snow might make us want to get out as fast as we can, but it’s important to go at your own pace and to warm up your muscles before strapping up your ice skates or ski boots. 

Consult an Orthopedic Specialist

The team at Paris Orthopedics and Sports Medicine is dedicated to helping our patients recover from a wide range of orthopedic conditions. Our services include general orthopedic medicine, joint replacement, sports injury treatment, and osteoporosis treatments at our bone health clinic. If you have questions about the risks or injury prevention of your favorite winter sport, call (903) 737-0000 to make an appointment.