Sports related injuries may require treatments such as improving mechanics for strength restoration or surgical repair to joint damage. Non-surgical treatments such as physical therapy and anti-inflammatory drugs may also help to eliminate symptoms of many sports injuries.
Dr. Steven Thomas and Dr. Gregory Bigler are board certified orthopedic surgeons providing cutting edge sports injury treatments. Sports medicine is a key focus area for the surgeons. For surgical interventions, they normally rely on arthroscopy to treat the condition in a less invasive manner. Dr. Thomas and Dr. Bigler provide these treatments to patients in Las Vegas, Nevada, and surrounding locations.
Tendinopathy
Tendon injury or tendinopathy is one of the most common injuries in sports medicine. Chronic tendon problems may often take place in the knee, Achilles, shoulder, elbow, or feet. While tendonitis is an inflammation of the tendon, a tendon injury involves deterioration of the tendon due to overuse. Surgery is usually not necessary for such injuries. Common treatments will include the RICE method, medications, ultrasound therapy, massage, splinting, or bracing.
Sprains
Sprains involve damage to the connective tissue or ligaments that hold the joints together. If one or more ligaments are stretched beyond their normal range, a ligament tear may occur. Depending on the severity of the sprain, the treatment provider may recommend a solution ranging from simply resting the damaged joint to surgery to repair the damage.
Fracture
A fracture may occur in any of the bones in the body. Sometimes the fracture may also involve additional damage to the ligament. Correct casting or splinting may be provided to help the patient perform ordinary activities while the healing process is on. In more severe cases, a surgery may be required along with follow-up physical therapy to promote healing.
Meniscus Tears
The cartilage in the knee that provides cushioning to the joint is called meniscus. A painful tear to this cartilage may occur due to a strain or twisting of the knee. Non-surgical treatments for a torn meniscus will generally include RICE method to minimize the swelling. If necessary, surgical repair may be performed arthroscopically. This will involve a smaller incision, and ensure quicker healing and less obvious scarring.
ACL Tears
The anterior cruciate ligament or ACL is one of the key connections between a bone of the lower leg called tibia and the bone of the upper leg called femur. A strain to the knee can result in stretching or tearing of this vital ACL ligament. If the stretch to the ligament is minor, it can usually be treated with physical therapy or a brace. However, if ACL sustains a tear in an active individual, a surgery may be necessary to reconstruct the torn ligament.
Concussions
Impact to the neck, head or jaw can cause a concussion, which is an injury to the brain. Rest and a temporary break from physical activity will typically be recommended as treatment. Board certified orthopedic surgeons Dr. Bigler and Dr. Thomas receive patients from Las Vegas, Nevada and nearby areas for various sports related injuries.
If you would like to schedule an appointment or learn more about the Knee and Shoulder Institute procedures & treatments performed by Las Vegas, Nevada board certified surgeons Steven C. Thomas, MD and Gregory T. Bigler, MD. call (702) 933-9393; Physical Therapy (702) 933-9394