For those dedicated to the courts, fields, tracks, and trails of North Carolina (and beyond), sports injuries can come with the territory. For as varied as the world of sports is, so are the types and locations of injuries. From upper extremity injuries affecting the shoulder, elbow, and wrist to hip, knee, and ankle lower extremity injuries, any number of sports-related issues can occur—any time, any place.
At EmergeOrtho—Triangle Region, our Sports Medicine, Athletic Training, and Physical Therapy Specialists work together to diagnose and provide a wide array of treatments for sports injuries. Our board-certified orthopedic physicians utilize a multidisciplinary, patient-centered approach, always with the goal of helping each and every athlete Emerge Stronger. Better. Healthier.
Comprehensive, Evidence-Based Treatments for Sports Injuries
Not only do our physicians utilize the latest approaches in treating sports injuries ranging from sprains and strains to fractures and joint dislocations, they are experts in their field. Many of our doctors are fellowship trained, with extensive knowledge in evidence-based non-surgical and surgical treatments.
Prior to implementing a treatment plan for a sports injury, it is important to consult with an orthopedic practice that provides precision diagnosis—be sure to read the first story in our sports injury blog series, “Could I Have a Sports Injury? Part One: Diagnosis.”
Once your doctor determines the type and severity of injury you have, a personalized non-surgical or surgical treatment plan will be put in place.
Non-Surgical Treatment Methods for Sports-Related Injuries
Whenever possible, our orthopedic physicians attempt to treat injuries and conditions conservatively.
Non-surgical treatments include:
- RICE Method
Rest, ice, compression, and elevation can help reduce pain and inflammation. The RICE method is multi-faceted in that it can help improve the symptoms of multiple types of sports injuries.
- Medication
Non-steroidal, anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are another method used to help reduce pain and inflammation.
- Bracing
Braces, splints, and other types of support/assistive devices can help protect and stabilize a sports injury.
- Physical Therapy
Specific exercises and stretches prescribed by a physical therapist are designed to increase range-of-motion and flexibility, while also strengthening and lengthening the muscles supporting the area of injury.
Additional conservative treatment methods offered at select EmergeOrtho locations include:
- Cortisone Injections
- Platelet Rich Plasma Injections
- Ultrasound-guided injections
- Aquatic Therapy
- Viscosupplementation
- Hand Therapy
In some cases, if a sports injury is severe or has not responded favorably to non-surgical treatment, surgical intervention may be recommended.
Types of Surgery for Sports Injuries
Again, the type of surgery suggested for a sports injury varies widely, depending on the type, severity, and location.
With the advent of modern surgical approaches, minimally-invasive techniques such as arthroscopic surgery have made it possible to address multiple sports injuries, while also helping patients to recover more quickly, often with a reduction in pain and discomfort.
Arthroscopy involves small incisions that allow a surgeon to insert miniature instruments, including a tiny camera to provide ultimate accuracy and precision to repair the injured area.
Arthroscopy is most often used for injuries affecting the:
- Ankle
- Elbow
- Hip
- Knee
- Wrist
Some of the most common sports injuries addressed by arthroscopy include:
- Rotator cuff tears
- Shoulder labral and biceps tears
- Meniscal (cartilage) tears
- Loose bodies
- Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) surgery
- Frozen shoulder
- Labral tears
- Ankle injury
- Elbow injury
- Hip injury
In addition to arthroscopy, other types of sports injury surgical approaches include reconstruction surgery, releases (such as tennis elbow and golfer’s elbow release), traditional open surgeries, and more.
Individualized Treatment for a Safe and Successful Recovery
No matter what type of treatment you receive for a sports injury, EmergeOrtho—Triangle Region strives to provide individualized and compassionate care.
To learn more, self-schedule an appointment now. Or, call us any time at (919) 220-5255.
