Each year, sports injuries send more than eight million Americans to the emergency room. If you’re a physically active individual or athlete, it’s important to take sports injuries seriously. Seeking immediate treatment can prevent further complications and speed up your return to the court or playing field. At Yavapai Foot and Ankle Center, Todd Cox, DPM, specialize in the treatment of sports injuries. To schedule an appointment at the Prescott, Arizona, practice, call to speak with a member of the support staff or book online today.
The term sports injuries refers to any trauma that occurs during exercise or physical activity. Anyone can experience a sports injury, but they’re especially common in teenagers, those who play contact sports, and people who fail to properly warm-up.
Most sports injuries respond well to at-home treatments like rest, ice, and over-the-counter pain medication. If your symptoms persist or worsen over a period of days, don’t wait to seek professional medical help.
Yavapai Foot and Ankle Center treats a variety of sports injuries, including:
You might also benefit from a sports injury appointment if you develop plantar fasciitis, an overuse injury that causes chronic heel pain.
To diagnose sports injuries, your provider at Yavapai Foot and Ankle Center reviews your medical history and asks about your symptoms, including their severity, when they started, and if any activities make them worse.
Next, your provider assesses your overall range of motion, gait, and posture. If they suspect an underlying issue, like a fracture or muscle strain, they order diagnostic imaging like X-rays, a computed tomography (CT) scan, or an MRI.
Treatment for sports injuries depends on the intensity of your symptoms and the underlying cause. Yavapai Foot and Ankle Center usually recommends conservative measures of care, like ice, over-the-counter pain medication, and wearing comfortable supportive shoes.
If you sprain an ankle or fracture a bone, you might benefit from a splint, cast, or protective boot. If you pull or strain a muscle, you might benefit from physical therapy or massage. Ultimately, the goal is to limit the pain and encourage your body’s natural healing process.
You can significantly lower the risk of sports injuries by stretching prior to exercise. Cold muscles are susceptible to strains and tears, while warm muscles can better absorb quick movements like bends and pivots.
In addition, Yavapai Foot and Ankle Center recommends:
Try to listen to your body as well. If a muscle feels sore, tight, or stiff, don’t push through it. It’s better to take a day off than it is to pull or strain something.
To learn more about the treatment of sports injuries, request a consultation at Yavapai Foot and Ankle Center. Call the office to speak with a member of the support staff or book online today.