The Basics of 5 Common Sports Injuries

If you’re an athlete, you should be aware of the potential for injury. Here’s a look at five common sports injuries, including their symptoms and treatment.

Whether you’re a high-level athlete or a weekend warrior who loves to compete, the threat of sports injuries is always present.

At Austin Foot & Ankle Institute, we treat a wide variety of orthopedic foot and ankle injuries. Several sports injuries keep popping up over and over, so here’s a run-through of the basics of five of those common injuries, courtesy of Dr. Pedro Cosculluela and our team.

Sprains

A sprain involves the stretching or partial tearing of a ligament, which connects bones. An ankle sprain is often the result of the joint rotating abnormally, such as a twist or sudden movement. A sprain usually brings acute pain and swelling, and you can’t bear weight for a while.

Treatment usually involves the RICE protocol (rest, ice, compression, elevation). The first day or two after a sprain is the most crucial time for treatment.

Strains

A strain occurs when you stretch your muscles or tendons too far. The usual cause is sudden movement, lack of flexibility, or inadequate warm-up. You experience pain, swelling, and possibly muscle spasms, which make moving the injured part difficult.

Treatment involves gentle stretching as healing occurs and a gradual return to activity.

Bone stress injuries

A bone stress injury includes stress fractures, tiny cracks in a bone, and conditions such as shin splints. These injuries usually result from overuse, which causes the bone to break down.

Treatment usually involves activity modification (rest). We might also evaluate the mechanics of how you move to keep stress injuries from recurring.

Fractures

A fracture is a break in your bone, usually from trauma or injury, such as a hard fall. Symptoms include severe pain, swelling, limited movement, and an inability to bear weight; sometimes, you can even see the broken bone.

Treatment includes applying ice to reduce swelling and immobilizing the area with a cast or brace. You may also need a rehabilitation plan to restore strength and mobility.

Tendinitis

Tendinitis occurs when your tendons become inflamed due to repetitive use and stress. This injury commonly happens with your Achilles tendon at the back of your heel. You notice increased pain and swelling as the condition gets worse.

Treatment includes the RICE protocol, stretches and exercises, and activity modification to give your tendon time to heal.

If you experience a sports injury, our team at Austin Foot & Ankle Institute is happy to help. Call our office in Austin or Bee Cave, Texas, or request an appointment online today.