Sprains and strains are among the most frequent sports injuries and involve damage to the muscles, tendons, or ligaments.
Sports Injuries
Sports injuries are common among children and adults due to organized sports or engagement in recreational activities. Injuries can range from mild strains to complete tears or dislocations, and while they are often a normal part of being active, they shouldn’t be ignored. Timely and effective treatment is important to ensure a full recovery and to prevent long-term complications.
At Rocky Mountain Spine & Sport, we take a comprehensive approach to treating sports injuries. Our goal is to help patients regain mobility, strength, and confidence, allowing them to return to the activities they love as quickly and safely as possible. From accurate diagnoses to personalized treatment plans, RMS&S is committed to providing exceptional care for all sports-related injuries.
Types of Sports Injuries
There are two primary types of sports injuries: acute and chronic.
- Acute injuries occur suddenly and are usually the result of a specific traumatic event, such as a fall, collision, or improper movement. Examples include sprains, tears, and dislocations.
- Chronic injuries develop gradually over time, often due to repetitive motions or overuse. Common chronic injuries include tendonitis, bursitis, and shin splints. These injuries usually start with mild discomfort but can worsen if not treated promptly.
Understanding the difference between acute and chronic injuries is vital to ensuring the proper treatment and recovery plan.
Activities With Frequent Sports Injuries
Sports injuries can result from a wide variety of activities, including high-intensity sports, recreational hobbies, and even everyday exercises.
Running
Running often leads to overuse injuries, such as shin splints or muscle strains.
Biking
Falls or collisions while biking may cause injuries, as well as overuse of the knees or lower back.
Weightlifting
Improper lifting techniques can cause strains, tears, or even serious injuries to muscles, tendons, and ligaments.
Contact sports
These high-impact sports (basketball, soccer, football, etc.) can lead to many acute injuries, from sprains to dislocations.
Common Causes of Sports Injuries
Several factors contribute to the occurrence of sports injuries, some of which are within your control and others that rely on external conditions.
Overuse
Repetitive motion or overexertion can place stress on muscles, tendons, and bones, resulting in injury.
Improper technique
Poor form or mechanics during exercise or sport can increase the risk of injury.
Accidents
Unexpected falls, collisions, and other accidents are a leading cause of acute sports injuries.
Inadequate equipment
Wearing improper footwear or using the wrong equipment can also contribute to injury.
Sports Injuries We Treat
At RMS&S, we treat a wide range of sports-related injuries, helping athletes recover and get back to the activities they love. Here are some of the most common types we see:
Tendonitis is often the result of overuse, while tears typically result from acute trauma.
These injuries are common in sports involving sudden stops or changes in direction, such as soccer or basketball.
Joint dislocations often occur due to falls or contact sports.
Cartilage damage often results from trauma or overuse and can significantly affect joint mobility.
Muscle swelling is common after intense physical activity or injury and requires proper treatment to avoid long-term issues.
For more severe injuries, you may be referred to a specialist.
Treatment Options for Sports Injuries
We offer an array of treatment options for sports injuries. Our approach begins with nonsurgical treatments whenever possible, focusing on therapies that promote healing and rehabilitation.
PT is an essential component of sports injury recovery, focusing on restoring strength, flexibility, and range of motion.
Anti-inflammatory medications and pain relievers can help manage symptoms and facilitate healing.
Corticosteroids and regenerative injections can reduce inflammation and promote tissue healing.
Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS)
TENS therapy uses electrical currents to relieve pain and enhance muscle recovery.
Treatments such as platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and stem cell therapy promote tissue regeneration and repair.
Surgical intervention may be necessary to repair damage when nonsurgical options are insufficient. Following surgery, we provide comprehensive post-operative rehabilitation to ensure a smooth and effective recovery process.
We also offer various treatments that focus specifically on the spine.
Tips for Preventing Sports Injuries
Preventing sports injuries is vital to maintaining an active and healthy lifestyle. Here are some tips to help you stay safe:
- Always warm up before physical activity to prepare your muscles and joints.
- Cool down after workouts to prevent stiffness and inhibit mobility.
- Be sure to hydrate to ensure proper muscle function.
- Wear shoes that fit well and provide proper support.
- Ensure that any equipment you use is suitable for your sport and in good condition.
- Avoid overworking specific muscle groups and give your body adequate time to recover.
- If you experience pain or discomfort, take it as a sign to rest and recover before continuing activity.
- Focus on building strength, particularly in the core and other stabilizing muscles.
- Whether running, lifting, or playing sports, utilize the proper form to reduce strain on the body.
- Make sure to incorporate rest days into your routine to allow your body time to repair and prevent overuse injuries.
Sports Injury Treatment in Rexburg and Idaho Falls
Promptly addressing sports injuries is crucial to successful recovery and preventing long-term complications. At RMS&S, we specialize in diagnosing and treating sports injuries, helping athletes of all levels return to their active lifestyles. Our experienced team is here to guide you through the entire recovery process, from your initial consultation to the final day of your rehabilitation.
Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you recover from your sports injury and get back to doing what you love.