Orthopaedic Surgery and Sports Medicine
Team Coverage and Services
We work with numerous providers including athletic trainers, therapists, personal trainers, primary care and family medicine doctors, neurologists, general surgeons, and other orthopaedic surgeons in a team environment to provide comprehensive and efficient medical care to our athletes. Whether you are learning a new sport, returning to a favorite activity, or competing at any level, we are here to support your health and function. A few of the more common sports injuries we encounter are listed below, but please contact us to learn more about all of our sports medicine services.
Stress Fractures
Stress fractures may be due to overuse or repetitive microtrauma along with underlying mineral deficiencies that ultimately lead to breaks in the bone structure. These injuries typically happen over time rather than from a single event. Dull aching pain is common, and these injuries can occasionally be missed on simple X-rays. Typical sites include the femoral neck, tibia, metatarsals, navicular, and pars. Depending on the fracture type, a combination of rest and immobilization or surgery may be recommended.
Tendinitis
Tendinitis describes an inflammatory condition of the tendons typically as a result of repetitive stress and injury. This inflammation may result in pain, stiffness, weakness, and/or instability, among others. Over time, chronic inflammation may lead to irreversible changes in the tendon, known as tendinosis. Treatment initially starts with rest and anti-inflammatories, though may include injections or surgery in refractory cases.
Sprains/Strains
Sprains and strains occur when an injury occurs to ligaments and muscle, respectively, without any complete tearing. These injuries may result in swelling, bruising, and/or instability. Appropriate evaluation by a qualified provider is essential as some fractures or complete tears may initially present as a strain or sprain and warrant further workup.
Lacerations
Lacerations can happen in all sports and vary based on location, depth, and injury to underlying structures. While small lacerations may heal on their own, larger or more complex injuries may require underlying repairs or suturing.
Finger and Toe Injuries
As our hands and feet are the most common means connecting our functional movements with sports, these areas are frequently injured. Minor injuries including sprains or strains may not require extensive treatment, but appropriate evaluation is key as some injuries may include tendon ruptures or fractures.
Disc Herniations
Disc herniations, also known as disc ruptures, occur due to tearing in the connective tissue between the vertebrae. As a result, the spinal cord and/or individual nerve branches can get compressed and cause severe back and extremity pain. Immediate evaluation is recommended to ensure appropriate diagnosis and treatment, especially in cases of numbness or weakness.
Achilles Tendon
The Achilles tendon is located in the back of the heel and is essential for controlling ankle motion and power. Rupture of the tendon near its insertion can occur causing weakness and pain behind the ankle. Depending on a number of factors, operative treatment with repair or nonoperative treatment with immobilization and physical therapy may be recommended.