Sports are one of the best ways to exercise, burn calories, and tone your body. However, sports can also lead to injuries that may sideline you for weeks or even months. Knowing how to treat your sports-induced injuries can help you get back in the game as soon as possible.
There are different ways to treat sports injuries, depending on their type, symptoms, and severity. Here’s what you can do:
Rest
Resting is vital for all injury types, but it is even more crucial for healing sports injuries. You may need to rest for a few days or weeks, depending on the intensity of your injury. Resting will give your body time to heal, so you can return to regular activities without further damage.
Moving can aggravate your condition and slow down the healing process. That doesn’t mean you have to stay in bed all day. You can still do gentle stretching and exercises that don’t strain your injury.
Apply Ice
Applying ice to your injury can help reduce swelling and pain. Ice also numbs the area, so you can move without feeling much pain.
Wrap your ice pack in a towel and apply it to the injured area for 15-20 minutes. Do this several times a day for the first few days after your injury.
Using ice can help with injuries like:
- Sprains – the stretching or tearing of ligaments, tissue connecting bones at your joints.
- Strains – the stretching or tearing of tendons, tissue attaching muscles to bones.
- Tendinitis – the inflammation of tendons.
- Swollen joints
Take Pain Medication
Over-the-counter pain medication can also help reduce pain and swelling. Ibuprofen and acetaminophen are both effective options. Follow the instructions on the bottle and don’t take more than the recommended dosage.
If OTC medication doesn’t seem to be helping, your doctor may prescribe something more potent. They may also recommend steroid injections, if necessary.
Elevate the Injured Area
Elevating the injured area above the heart level will help reduce swelling. Use pillows or a recliner to prop up your injured body part. Try to keep your injury up for at least 30 minutes, several times a day.
Wear Supportive Gear
If you have an ankle or knee injury, wearing a brace can help stabilize the area and prevent further damage. You may also want to wear tape or a splint to support the injured area.
Use a Compression Bandage
A compression bandage can also help reduce swelling by applying pressure to the injured area. Be sure not to wrap it too tight, as that can cut off circulation.
Consult A Sports Medicine Physician
If your injury is severe or doesn’t heal with home treatment, you may need to see a sports medicine physician. They can provide more specific treatment based on the type and severity of your condition. They may also recommend physical therapy to help you regain strength and mobility.
A sports medicine doctor will begin by assessing your injury and symptoms. They will also ask about how you got injured and the treatments you’ve tried. Then, they will recommend the best treatment for you.
Doctor Of Sports Medicine In Farmington Hills, MI
Sports injuries can be frustrating, but with the correct treatment, you can heal quickly and return to regular activities. Rest, ice, elevation, and supportive gear are vital for healing. If your injury is severe or doesn’t seem to be improving, consult a sports medicine physician for more specific treatment.
Are you looking for a trusted doctor of sports medicine in Farmington Hills, MI? Look no further than Tri County Orthopedics. Our highly trained and experienced providers can give you the care you deserve. You may call us at (248) 474-5575 to learn about our services. You may also use our appointment request form to book a consultation with the best sports medicine doctor near you.
We look forward to serving you!
