Whether they’re training or competing, athletes are at a higher risk of getting injured. At Paris Orthopedics, we specialize in the treatment and prevention of these sports-related orthopedic injuries. While there are ways to minimize this risk, such as staying hydrated, stretching, and getting the appropriate amount of rest, there is no way to eliminate the possibility of injury. If you find yourself with a sudden, nagging, or reoccurring sports injury, the providers at Paris Orthopedic are here to help. We are committed to helping our patients overcome and avoid these conditions through proper diagnosis, treatment, and education. While we treat a wide array of conditions, some sports injuries are more common than others. This is why we’re taking time to outline the most common sports-related orthopedic injuries
Ankle Sprains
Sprained ankles are an incredibly common sports injury, with an estimated 2 million occurring each year in the United States. In fact, nearly half of all ankle sprains occur while taking part in an athletic activity. While sprained ankles can typically be mended at home with ice and rest, they can potentially result in tendon or ligament tears that may require professional medical attention.
Shoulder Injury
Many different types of shoulder injuries can occur while playing sports. Shoulder instability, impingement, frozen shoulder, and rotator cuff tears are all conditions specialists can treat at Paris Orthopedics. Sports that most commonly cause shoulder injuries include football, weight lifting, swimming, and volleyball.
Runner’s Knee
Runner’s knee is caused by overuse of the joint in the knee, leading to stress on the tendon below the kneecap. Because Paris Orthopedics aims to exhaust all conservative treatment options first, the initial treatment plan typically consists of ice, elevation, and rest, with the possible addition of short-term medication. Once the inflammation has subsided, physical therapy can help restore your knee’s strength and range of motion. If the cause of runner’s knee is due to underlying problems with the cartilage, then surgical options may be the best option.
Tennis Elbow/Golfer’s Elbow
The degeneration of the tendon on the outside of the elbow is commonly referred to as either tennis elbow or golfer’s elbow since both of these sports require repetitive motions of the wrists and arm that can lead to overuse of the tendon. This condition is typically painful but fortunately can be treated by non-surgical options most of the time. If standard ice and rest practices are not effective, cortisone injections and physical therapy may be able to help. If symptoms do not improve over time, contact a provider at Paris Orthopedics.
Ligament/Tendon Tears
Ligaments, muscles, and tendons are present in every area of the body, making it possible for an athlete to suffer a strain or tear while playing sports. While specific treatments depend on the area and the severity of the teat, general rest, elevation, and ice are recommended initial courses of action. Seek medical attention if you hear a popping sound or if you’re unable to walk.
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 sports-related orthopedic injuries, call (903) 737-0000 to make an appointment.
