WHAT IS SPORTS MEDICINE?
Sports medicine is a subspecialty of orthopedics that deals with the prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of injuries suffered during athletic activity. Here at Orthopedic Associates of Long Island, our many excellent doctors strive to help diagnose and treat your injuries.
CAUSES OF SPORTS-RELATED INJURIES
Participating in sports places wear-and-tear on the body, and can lead to orthopedic injuries. Athletes are susceptible to injuries that include stress fractures and chronic pain, as well as tearing or stretching of internal structures.
COMMON SPORTS INJURIES TREATED AT OALI
Common injuries treated in sports medicine include:
- Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears
- Compartment syndrome
- Fractures
- Heat exhaustion
- Muscle contusions (bruises)
- Muscle cramps
- Shin splints
- Sprains and strains
- Stress fractures
- Torn tendons and ligaments
WHO IS QUALIFIED TO TREAT MY SPORT INJURY
Many physicians work together to help a patient regain maximum use of an injured limb or joint. A sports injury is typically treated by a physician, orthopedic surgeon, rehabilitation specialist, athletic trainer and physical therapist, all of whom have specialized training in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of sports injuries.
TREATMENT OPTIONS FOR SPORTS-RELATED INJURIES
The goal of treatment is to heal and rehabilitate injuries so patients can quickly return to their athletic activities. Treatment for these conditions can involve surgery, orthotics, physical therapy and rest.
WHAT IS AN ARTHROSCOPY?
Sports injuries are often repairable with arthroscopy, which is a minimally invasive procedure that allows doctors to diagnose and sometimes treat joint injuries and disease through small incisions in the skin.
PREVENTING SPORTS-RELATED INJURIES
In order to prevent sports injuries, it is important for athletes to take care of themselves before, during and after physical activity; this helps to ensure long-term athletic health. Some of the most effective injury prevention tips include the following:
- Staying hydrated
- Taking time to rest
- Not working out on an empty stomach
- Warming up before exercising
- Increasing activity levels only gradually
WHAT HAPPENS IF A SPORTS INJURY IS LEFT UNTREATED?
Seeking proper medical care at the first sign of a sports injury is imperative because the continued activity can lead to even more damage.
SCHEDULE A CONSULTATION
If you or your child has a sports injury, contact Orthopedic Associates of Long Island. Call us at631.689.6698 to schedule a consultation with our sports medicine specialists. We serve East Setauket, New York and all of Long Island.
