Sports injuries present themselves during physical activities like exercise or sports. A sports injury can occur at any age of life and set you back from performing. Sports injuries can be a risk when a person does not warm up properly, has not been active recently, or plays a contact sport. At H&D Physical Therapy, we assess and treat all different sports injuries. We suggest physical therapy in New York City if you have obtained a sports injury and seek relief.

Types of Sports Injuries

Some signs that indicate an injury needs attention include pain, swelling, and bruising. Symptoms and complications vary between the different types of sports injuries. Some examples of the most common sports injuries we treat with physical therapy in New York City include:

  • Achilles tendon rupture- The breakage or rupturing of the Achilles tendon that is located at the back of the ankle. Sudden pain and difficulty walking will result.
  • Dislocations- The removal of the bone from the socket. Dislocation may follow with swelling and weakness.
  • Fractures- A breakage or partial breakage of a bone.
  • Knee injuries- Any injury that affects how the knee moves, varying from overstretching to a muscle tear in the knee. 
  • Rotator cuff injury- A tear in one of the four pieces of muscle that allow your shoulder to move. 
  • Sprains- The overstretching or tearing of a ligament, which holds two pieces of bone together.
  • Strains- The overstretching or tearing of a muscle or tendon. Tendons connect bone to muscle.
  • Swollen muscles- The swelling and weakness of a muscle, which commonly accompanies a sports injury.
Physical Therapy in New York City

Risks Factors of Sports Injuries

Regardless of the amount of experience a person may have, an injury can always be possible when playing sports or exercising. One risk factor that can increase obtaining a sports injury is age. As you age, your flexibility, muscle mass, and strength decrease, making you more susceptible to damage. Another risk factor is being overweight. Holding extra weight on your body can put more stress on your joints, increasing even more when being active. Lack of care for previous injuries is another risk factor because it can become more severe if an injury is left untreated. Don’t leave your injury untreated. Get relief with physical therapy in New York City.

Treatment of Common Sports Injuries

Sports injuries are addressed differently depending on the location of the damage and its severity. Some of the treatment methods which you can use to heal a sports-related injury include the following:

  • The RICE method- The RICE method consists of resting, icing, compressing, and elevating the site of a mild injury. Within the first 24 hours of obtaining the injury, you should use this method to reduce swelling, bruising, and pain.
  • Over-the-counter and prescription medicines- A doctor can prescribe medication to treat a sport-related injury by relieving pain and inflammation. 
  • Surgery- More severe injuries can require surgery. Surgery can fully repair damaged tissue, align bones, or re-position joints.
  • Physical therapy- Physical therapy in New York City can heal a sports injury through exercises, stretches, and massage therapy.

How to Prevent a Sports Injury From Occurring

Most sports injuries occur due to a lack of preparation, such as warming up and stretching. Some steps that you can take to prevent a sports injury include the following:

  • Using the proper technique- Learn the appropriate exercises and movements for the specific sport you are doing.
  • Using the correct equipment- Wear the proper gear and shoes to ensure your safety and protect your body.
  • Not overworking yourself- Take breaks and let your body recover when possible.
  • Slowly resume back into your sport- Ease back into exercise at a slow pace after an injury.

How to Diagnose a Sports Injury 

Sports injuries can cause immediate discomfort and can worsen over time. That is why it is essential to get an evaluation as soon as possible. A doctor will complete a physical examination, ask for your medical history, and possibly follow through with imaging tests to evaluate your injury and determine a treatment plan, such as physical therapy in New York City.

Contact Our Team For Physical Therapy in New York City

At H&D Physical Therapy, we can handle your sports injuries and provide physical therapy courses in New York City to relieve them. We want to help you decrease your pain and get you back to doing the sport you love. Don’t let your sports injury go untreated any longer. Contact our office today to learn more about how we go about treating sports injuries through physical therapy.