Sports Injuries Specialist

What should I do if I have a sports injury?

If you experience or suspect a sports injury, stop physical activity right away. For mild sports injuries, several days of the RICE protocol may help.

• Rest - no sports and no use of the affected body part
• Ice - ice packs in 20-minute intervals
• Compression - a light compression bandage
• Elevation - lifting the affected body part above heart level

You can also try over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) after a sports injury.

If you have uncontrollable symptoms, can't bear weight on the affected body part, or severe trauma like an obvious bone fracture, don't wait to contact Oakland Orthopedics and Sports Medicine. The experienced team can prioritize your appointment to diagnose and treat you as quickly as possible.

What are some common sports injuries?

Oakland Orthopedics and Sports Medicine specializes in treating some of today's most common sports injuries, particularly those in the shoulders, knees, ankles, and feet. These include:

• Sprains and strains
• Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears and ruptures
• Meniscus tears
• Labral tears
• Rotator cuff injuries
• Fractures
• Joint dislocations
• Achilles tendinitis
• Plantar fasciitis

Sports injuries often happen suddenly, with a trip, fall, or collision. But, wear-and-tear and overuse sports injuries are quite common, too. Regardless of how the injury occurs, Oakland Orthopedics and Sports Medicine has solutions for you.

How are sports injuries diagnosed?

Diagnosis involves a hands-on physical exam and a full review of your symptoms. Oakland Orthopedics and Sports Medicine has diagnostic imaging like X-rays in the office to determine the type of damage and any underlying factors.

A medical history review can also be important during the diagnosis of sports injuries because a pre-existing condition like neuropathy may cause weakness or function issues that contributed to the injury.

How are sports injuries treated?

Your treatment depends on the injury and how serious it is. Some sports injuries quickly improve with physical therapy, bracing, oral medication, and rest. Oakland Orthopedic Institute also offers in-office casting.

Some injuries, for example, tendon and ligament damage, may take quite some time to heal naturally. In this situation, precision medicine injections of platelet-rich plasma or other biologic substances may help you to heal or regrow the tissue and recover faster.

Certain sports injuries, for example, ACL ruptures, typically require surgery, particularly in athletes who want to return to full strength and range of motion. 

The Oakland Orthopedics and Sports Medicine team usually performs minimally invasive surgery, most commonly arthroscopic surgery, for sports injuries. They provide complete postoperative care to help you return to your full abilities in a timely manner. 

In addition, the team helps you take proactive steps to avoid further injuries, like with custom orthotics, PowerStep® orthotic insoles, and improved form during sports. 

To learn more about the cutting-edge sports injury treatment options at Oakland Orthopedics and Sports Medicine, call the office or book an appointment online today.