There are many benefits to engaging in physical activity and physical exercise through sports or other activities; however, injuries can result from any physical activity at any time. Participating in sports, such as cricket, football, badminton, and going to the gym or jogging on a regular basis, can lead to many different types of injuries. Although many athletes will attempt to ‘play through’ an injury by ignoring the pain, leaving it untreated can also lead to more significant long-term disabilities.
The following blog post will give you detailed information regarding the proper way to treat a sports-related injury and common types of sports-related injuries seen in both athletes and recreational fitness enthusiasts, as well as when you should seek out more advanced medical care (orthopaedic specialists) for a sports-related injury in Gorakhpur.
What Are Sports Injuries?
Sports injuries are caused by physical activity, sports, and exercise. Different parts of the body may be affected such as muscle, ligament, tendon, joint and bone. Some injuries occur quickly, but others happen as a result of an increase in activity over time.
Examples of athletes who can sustain an injury:
1) Professional athletes
2) Individuals who go to gyms
3) High school and college athletes
4) Individuals who work out at home or do yoga regularly.
An early diagnosis and proper treatment improve recovery time and reduce the risk of permanent damage.
Common Sports Injuries Seen Today
1. Ligament Injuries
The connection of bones is through a group of tissues called ligaments. Ligaments provide stability at the joints to help support movement. Damage to ligaments (especially in the knee or ankle) may occur when twisting or receiving sudden force.
Some examples of ligament injured are:
- Tears of the ACL
- Injuries to the MCL
- Tears of the ankle ligament
It is vital to treat ligament injuries for the recovery of stability at the joint.
2. ACL Injury
Injuries to the ACL are common in sports such as football, cricket, and basketball usually resulting from a sudden change of direction or awkward landing.
Common signs and symptoms of an ACL injury:
- Popping sound when injured
- Swelling around the knee
- Difficulty walking
- The knee giving out
The promptness of treatment is very important in determining the recovery time for the ACL injury.
3. Ankle Sprain
An ankle sprain occurs when the ankle is forced out of its natural position. It is one of the most frequent athletic injuries.
Some signs of an ankle sprain are:
- Pain and swelling
- Bruising
- Unable to stand or walk properly
Proper treatment for an ankle sprain will decrease the chances of permanent weakness in the ankle.
4. Shoulder Pain Due to Gym Injury
Many injuries in the gym occur from improper posture, using too much weight, or not warming up properly. The shoulder is susceptible to injury, usually from:
- Rotator cuff strain
- Shoulder impingement
- Muscular tear
Ignoring shoulder injuries may result in ongoing issues.
5. Overuse Injuries
Muscles and joints can become strained due to the same athletic activity done over and over again. When this happens, they can become injured through repetitive or overuse injuries, some examples include:
- Tendinitis
- Stress fractures
- Fatigue or weakness of muscles
While these types of injuries typically don’t develop overnight (it takes time), if you do not pay attention to your body, these types of injuries can become more serious.
Sports Injury: Signs That You Need To Go To The Hospital
For some injuries, simply resting will be enough for them to heal; however, for others, you will need to seek medical help (and/or an orthopedic specialist) if you have any of the following signs:
- Severe, persistent pain or swelling
- Ridiculously Persistent Pain That Is Not Getting Better After 3 (or more than a few) Days
- Restricted range of motion in a joint
- Instability and/or extreme weakness in the joint
- Pain while walking and/or running
- Having had the same injury before
If you see any of these signs and think that you have a sports injury, an orthopedic physician that specializes in sports injuries can find the exact cause of the injury and provide the necessary treatment.
Sports Injury Treatment Options
The type and severity of the injury will dictate how you receive treatment. Many injuries can be treated effectively with conservative care if they are approached early in their course.
1. Non-surgical Treatment for Sports Injuries
Most mild-moderate injuries are treated through conservative care methods, such as:
- Rest/Modify activity
- Ice
- Compression/Elevation
- Pain medication (NSAIDS)
- Physiotherapy/Strengthening Exercises
This is effective for things like muscle strains, mild ligament injuries, and early joint problems.
2. Rehabilitation/Physiotherapy
Physiotherapy plays an essential role in recovering from a sports injury. It will help you:
- Gain strength
- Increase Range of Motion.
- Reduce Re-injury Risk
- Quickly Return to Sport
In terms of knee and ligament injuries, physiotherapy is a vital component of achieving full recovery.
3. Surgery and Advanced Care
Only when severe ligament tears occur, or if there has been loss of stability to the joint, or when you've tried other conservative methods of treatment without effective relief from your injury, or injury to your ability to participate in daily activities or sports; then surgery may be required. Arthroscopy or ligament reconstruction may be suggested for more serious injuries.
How long does it take to recover from a sports injury?
Recovery times will vary by type of injury:
- Ankle sprains 2 - 6 weeks
- Muscle strains 1 - 4 weeks,
- Ligament tears 6 - 12 weeks
- ACL Injuries 6 - 9 months (with rehabilitation)
Following your physician's recommendations and completing physical therapy will yield the best results.
Best Orthopedic Doctors in Gorakhpur for Sports Injuries
The type of doctor you see for sports-related injuries makes a huge difference. Sports-Injury Orthopedic Doctors Are Experts! Sports Injury Orthopedic Doctors Are Experts at Joint Motions, Muscle Balance, and Athletic Rehabilitation.
With Makapt You Can:
- Find Experienced Orthopedic Doctors in Gorakhpur.
- Read Doctor Profiles and Specialty Areas.
- Choose Specialists for Knee, Shoulder or Ankle Injuries.
- Make Doctor Appointments.
Whether it’s a torn ligament or a gym-related injury, choosing the right athlete orthopedic doctor will facilitate your recovery safely and effectively.
- Search for Orthopedic Doctors Who Specialize in Sports Injuries in Gorakhpur on Makapt.
Sports Injury Prevention Guidelines
The Best Way to Treat a Sports Injury Is to Prevent Them From Happening at All! Here Are Some Simple Steps You Can Follow:
- Warm Up Before You Exercise.
- Use Proper Posture and Technique.
- Always Include Stretching In Your Workouts.
- Gradually Increase Your Workout Intensity.
- Choose the Right Type of Shoes for Your Workout.
Allow For Adequate Rest Between Workouts. Also, It Is Important to Listen to Your Body to Avoid Serious Injuries.
Conclusion
There are many common sports injuries that occur regularly, however, if these types of injuries are ignored, they can lead to significant long-term complications. Understanding how to treat a sports injury as well as receiving the proper care from a qualified physician will both help you recover quicker and allow you to return to an active lifestyle.
If you live in Gorakhpur and are experiencing pain from sports or gym-related activities, Makapt can help by connecting you with a qualified orthopedic physician in your area who specializes exclusively in treating sports-related injuries safely and effectively.
- Schedule your appointment today to get back on the field strong and pain free.