Sports Injuries: What are they?

Sports Injuries: What are they?

Many different types of injuries are considered sports injuries. The term sports injury is rather broad and can encompass many different things. You don’t even have to be participating in a sport to get a sports injury. Although playing a sport is one of the most common ways to get this type of injury, other ways include accidents and poor training. If you do not warm up or stretch, wear the wrong gear, or do not know the rules, you are also more at risk for a sports injury.

What is classified as a sports injury?

How can I tell if I have received a sports injury?

A sports injury typically occurs while playing, practicing or participating in a sport or related activity. These injuries can be due to moving the wrong way, trauma, or impact. Almost all sports injuries result in some sort of pain, swelling, or tenderness. It is important to treat these injuries immediately so that they can heal properly over time. Seek the help of a podiatrist immediately if you think you are suffering from a sports injury. The faster you obtain treatment, the better the prognosis.

What do I do if I have received a sports injury?

If your sports injury is severe you should call 911 immediately. If it is moderate and you are not in any life-threatening danger, then you should seek the help of a trained podiatrist or your primary care physician. While waiting for your appointment, it is best to use the RICE method to help with swelling, inflammation and pain:

Rest- reduce or stop your normal activities. You can do this by relieving pressure and weight from the affected area. Try lying or sitting down. 

Ice- use an ice pack and place it on the injury for 20 minutes. Be sure to wrap it in a towel so that you do not harm yourself further. If you do not have an ice pack, a bag of frozen peas or a plastic bag of ice cubes also work well. Be sure to do this about 8 times a day, but never for longer than 20 minutes.

Compression- use even pressure on the injury to help reduce swelling. An Ace bandage, air cast or splint are optimal tools for this purpose.

Elevation- elevate your injured foot or ankle. Be sure that it is angled above your heart. This will also help reduce swelling.

Don’t have a podiatrist? Dr. Alan J. Discont and Dr. Krahn can help treat your sports injury and get you back on the field in no time. Family Foot & Ankle Care, PC located in Chandler, Arizona, is friendly, professional, and knowledgeable about your feet and their care. Call 480-732-0033 or make an appointment online today.