Sports injuries can occur when playing indoor or outdoor sports or while exercising. The most common sports injuries are sprains and strains, fractures, and dislocations. The Initial treatment recommended for a sporting injury is Rest, Ice, Compression and Elevation (RICE).
Rest:
Avoid activities that may cause further injury.
Ice:
Ice packs applied to the injured area will help to diminish swelling and pain. Ice should be applied over a towel to the affected area for 15-20 minutes four times a day for several days. Never place ice directly over the skin.
Compression:
Compression of the injured area can help reduce swelling. Elastic wraps, air casts, and splints can accomplish this.
Elevation:
Elevate the injured part above heart level to reduce swelling and pain.
Common sports injuries include:
Foot and ankle Injuries
Common sports injuries of the foot and ankle include sprains and strains, ankle fractures, and tendon ruptures including the Achilles tendon. Initially these may be treated conservatively with orthotics, braces, or physical therapy. Should these fail to produce the desired results or if the trauma is too severe surgery may be required.
Shoulder Injuries
Severe pain in shoulders while playing your favourite sports such as tennis, basketball and gymnastics may be caused by a torn ligament in the shoulder, shoulder dislocation or simply overuse of the shoulder. A conservative treatment plan would normally be adopted for simple pain or acute injuries whereas chronic injuries may require surgical treatment.
Hip Injuries
Common sports injuries affecting the hip include fractures of the femur bone, a labral tear or hip dislocation. Hip injuries require immediate medical intervention to avoid further complications. Rehabilitation programs and physical therapy is often recommended following any medical intervention. These exercises will be designed to strengthen the muscles and improve the movement with the goal of returning to normal use.
Knee Injuries
Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is major stabilizing ligament in the knee which may tear while playing sports. The ACL has a poor ability to heal and if damaged may cause instability which may cause further damage to the knee joint. Other common sports injuries in knee are cartilage damage and meniscal tear. Knee injuries as a result of sport activities may require surgical intervention that can be performed using open surgical or minimally invasive techniques. Your surgeon will most likely recommend physical therapy to strengthen your muscles, improve elasticity, strengthen your bones and improve the movement of the joint.
All of our surgeons are experience in managing Sports Injuries
Dr Chris Roberts
MB BS, FRACS, FAOrthA
Dr Roberts graduated with Honours from the University of Sydney in 1982. He completed his advanced Orthopaedic training in Sydney.
Dr Alexander Burns
MB BS, FRACS(Orth)
Dr Al Burns graduated in medicine from the University of Sydney in 1995, and completed his advanced orthopaedic training in Sydney.
Dr Nicholas Tsai
MB BS, FRACS(Orth)
Prof Paul Smith
BM BS, FRACS, FAOrthA
A graduate of the University of Sydney Dr Nicholas Tsai did his internship and residency in Westmead Hospital.
Professor Paul Smith graduated in medicine from The Flinders University of South Australia 1986, and completed orthopaedic surgical training in 1995.