Playing sports is a great way to stay healthy and active, but it also comes with the risk of injury. Whether you're a seasoned athlete or a weekend warrior, getting injured is always a possibility. When it happens, it's important to know when to see an orthopedist for your sports injury. In this post, we'll go over some common sports injuries and the signs that it's time to see an orthopedist.

Broken Bones and Fractures:

If you experience a nasty fall or collision that results in a visible deformity or intense pain in your limb, it's time to see an orthopedist. Broken bones and fractures can happen during contact sports, but they can also occur from a simple misstep. Trying to play through the pain could make matters worse and prevent proper healing.

ACL/PCL Tear:

The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) are important structures in the knee joint that maintain stability. If you hear a pop at the time of injury and develop swelling, loss of motion, and pain, you may have injured this ligament. If you continue to play on an injured ACL, you risk further damage to your knee, which may require surgery. An orthopedist will determine the extent of your ACL/PCL tear and recommend a course of action.

Concussion:

Head injuries are serious and can happen during any contact sport. Symptoms of a concussion include headaches, dizziness, confusion, nausea, and feeling foggy or slowed down. If you experience any of these symptoms after a blow to the head, it's time to see an orthopedist. In some cases, advanced imaging studies such as MRI or CT scans may be needed to determine the extent of the injury.

Overuse Injuries:

Common overuse injuries include tennis elbow, swimmer's shoulder, and runner's knee. If you're experiencing persistent pain, swelling, or weakness in the affected area, it's time to see an orthopedist. They will help diagnose and treat the underlying cause of the pain, as well as provide guidance on how to avoid such injuries in the future.

Sprains and Strains:

A strain is a muscle or tendon injury, and a sprain is a ligament injury. Both can be caused by sudden twisting or stretching of tissues during a sports activity. Symptoms include pain, swelling, and stiffness. If the pain and swelling haven't improved after a few days of at-home treatments such as rest, ice, and elevation, it's time to see an orthopedist. They may recommend physical therapy or other treatments to help you heal.

Sports injuries can be painful and frustrating, but they don't have to keep you on the sideline for long. Early evaluation and treatment from an orthopedist can go a long way in helping you regain your strength and get back to doing what you love. If you're experiencing any of the symptoms discussed in this post, don't hesitate to make an appointment with an orthopedist. They have the experience and expertise to get you back in the game.

For more info about sports injury treatments, contact a local company.