Sports injuries may affect not just professional athletes, but also ‘weekend warriors’ who engage in sports and other physical activities as a pastime. Some people say three on three basketball is the most fun thing they do all week and it is extremely beneficial for the body – unless you damage, extend, twist, or break something! But this is why there are outstanding doctors to get people back on their feet and ready for the next intense activity.
There is an old saying that still holds true: if you do not use it, you will lose it.
Minor sports injuries may be treated with over the counter sports medications, but more serious injuries may need the attention of an orthopedic surgeon.Thomas & Bigler Knee & Shoulder Institute is a pre-eminent practice, headed by board certified surgeons Dr. Thomas and Dr. Bigler. The practice provides cutting edge sports medicine treatments to patients in Las Vegas, Nevada and surrounding communities.
Common Sports Injuries
Some of the most common sports injuries include ankle sprain, hamstring pull, groin pull, ACL tear in the knee, shin splints, tennis elbow, and injury from repetitive movement of the kneecap against thigh bone. Sprains and strains are the most common sports injuries.
Sprains include injuries to ligaments, which are the tough bands connecting bones in a joint. If the ligament is suddenly stretched beyond limit, it can get torn or deformed. Strains include injuries to the tendons or muscle fibers, which anchor muscles to bones. Overuse or overstretching of the muscle causes strains or pulls.
Treatments
Severe sports injuries should only be treated by qualified and experienced orthopedic surgeon for best results. Thomas & Bigler Knee & Shoulder Institute receives patients from Las Vegas, Nevada for sports injury treatment and other procedures. Common sports injuries can take several weeks or months to heal, even with professional treatment. Surgery may be required if the sprain or strain is severe, involving the tearing away of an entire ligament, muscle, or tendon.
Ankle Sprain
Athletes will usually experience a sprained ankle at some point, which involves stretching or tearing of the ligaments on the outside of the ankle. The orthopedic surgeon or a physical therapist can guide the patient regarding the appropriate exercises for this condition. Ankle sprains are common in basketball, track, and in a number of other activities.
Groin Pull
Strain to the groin or the inner thigh muscles may caused due to pushing off in a side-to-side motion. Groin pulls with significant swelling should be treated by a physician as early as possible. A groin pull can happen in basketball, soccer, football, tennis, or just playing around with your kids.
Hamstring Pull
Injuries of the hamstring are slow to heal because the injured tissue receives constant stress from walking. It can take about six to 12 months for your heel to completely heal. This injury is common in colder weather where it is harder to get warm and if someone fails to stretch out that well before they push their body and begin to run or move quickly.
Shin Splints
Pain down the front of the lower legs is referred to as shin splints. It can be normally treated with medicine, but if there is a small fracture in the shin bone, an orthopedic surgeon should be consulted. You can experience shin splints with hard running on hard surfaces.
ACL Tear
If there is a suspected ACL injury, it is important to consult with an orthopedic surgeon early. A completely torn ACL will generally require surgery for a patient who is keen to remain physically active. ACL tears are among the most severe forms of common sports injuries.
Tennis Elbow
Tennis elbow occurs from the repetitive use of the elbow and is most common in the age group of 30 to 60. It typically involves the outside of the elbow. Adequate rest and staying away from sports activities such as tennis or golf is important until the condition has fully recovered. You do not have to be a tennis player to acquire tennis elbow much too popular conception.
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