What are sports injuries?
Sports injuries happen during physical activities like exercising, dancing, or participating in a competitive sport. People of all ages and activity levels are susceptible to sports injuries, from elite athletes to Little League MVPs.
Sports injuries can occur immediately after an incident like a fall or direct blow, or they may develop gradually as the result of repetitive motions like running or lifting weights.
What are some common sports injuries?
Dr. Ben-Meir evaluates and treats all types of sports injuries. Some of the most common sports-related injuries include:
Sprains and strains
A sprain is a stretched or torn ligament, which is the tissue that connects bone to bone. A strain is a twisted or pulled muscle or tendon. Sprains often affect ankles, wrists, and knees, while strains are a common source of back pain.
Knee injuries
The knees are weight-bearing joints that play a central role in many movements, like running, climbing, and jumping. This makes the knee prone to a wide range of sports injuries, including:
- ACL tears
- Cartilage injuries, including meniscus tears
- Jumper’s knee, also known as patellar tendinitis
- Runner’s knee, also known as patellofemoral pain syndrome
A knee injury requires prompt treatment to reduce your risk of additional injuries and long-term issues like instability and joint pain.
Tendon injuries
Tendons are bands of tissue that connect muscle to bone. Tendinitis is a common sports injury that occurs when a tendon becomes irritated and inflamed. Common tendon injuries include tennis elbow, Achilles tendinitis at the back of the heel, and rotator cuff tears in the shoulder.
How are sports injuries diagnosed?
To diagnose your sports injury, Dr. Ben-Meir asks how the injury occurred and reviews your symptoms. He also performs a physical exam and may complete diagnostic tests that include:
- X-ray
- Musculoskeletal ultrasound
- Electromyogram (EMG)
- Nerve conduction study (NCS)
These tests help him confirm a diagnosis so he can recommend the most effective course of treatment.
What treatments are available for sports injuries?
Dr. Ben-Meir develops an individualized treatment plan focused on relieving your pain and restoring normal function. Depending on your needs, treatment at Downtown Pain Management may include:
- Physical therapy
- Medications to reduce inflammation and pain
- Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections
- TenJet treatment for chronic tendon pain
- Corticosteroid injections
- Fluoroscopy-guided knee injections
- Alternative therapies like acupuncture and yoga
- Chiropractic care
For an integrative approach to treating sports injuries, call Downtown Pain Management or book an appointment online today.
