SPORTS INJURY CLINIC IN PUNE
Polaris healthcare has a sports injury department dedicated to helping athletes recover from their injuries quickly and safely. The hospital is staffed with a team of experienced and knowledgeable doctors, physical therapists, trainers, and nutritionists who work together to provide a comprehensive approach to sports injury rehabilitation.
WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT
SPORTS INJURIES
Participating in sports and exercise can result in sports injuries for both children and adults. However, children are more prone to such injuries as their bodies are still developing and may not be prepared for the physical demands of sports activities. Sports injuries can be of various types, ranging from sprains, strains, fractures, and dislocations to concussions, causing symptoms such as pain, swelling, bruising, and limited range of motion, depending on the severity of the injury.
The after-effects of a sports injury can differ and impact an individual's life differently. While some wounds may completely heal with proper care, others may cause long-term or permanent damage, leading to loss of fitness, mobility, and quality of life. Preventive measures, such as warming up and stretching before physical activity, using appropriate protective gear, maintaining good physical conditioning, and avoiding overexertion, can help reduce the risk of sports injuries. In case of a sports injury, seeking prompt medical attention is vital to ensure proper treatment and recovery.
Types of Sports Injuries
Sprain and strain
A sprain is a common injury when the ligaments connecting two bones at a joint are stretched beyond their limits or torn. Ligaments are the tough bands of tissues that support the joint and keep the bones in proper alignment. Symptoms of a sprain may include pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the affected joint. On the other hand, a strain happens when muscles or tendons are stretched or torn due to overexertion, repetitive movements, or sudden forceful movements. Tendons are fibrous tissues that attach muscles to bones and help move joints.
Knee injury
​A sports injury can affect the knee joint and cause a limited range of motion. This can be due to various reasons, ranging from an overstretch of the muscles or tissues around the knee to a complete rupture of the ligaments or tendons. Knee injuries are common in sports that involve running, jumping, or sudden changes in direction. Proper warm-up, stretching, and wearing appropriate protective gear can help prevent knee injuries, while timely medical attention and rehabilitation can aid recovery and reduce the risk of long-term damage.
A muscular swell
Swelling is a body's natural response to an injury, including muscular injuries. When muscles are swollen, they may become painful and weak. Swelling occurs when fluid and white blood cells accumulate around the injured tissue, causing an increase in size. This process can be a protective mechanism of the body, as the increased fluid volume can help to stabilise the affected area and prevent further damage. However, excessive swelling can also lead to complications, such as restricted blood flow and impaired movement. Therefore, proper treatment and management of swelling are essential for a safe and effective recovery from a muscular injury.
A ruptured achilles tendon
The Achilles tendon is a strong and thin tendon located at the back of the ankle. It can rupture or tear during sports activities, causing sudden and intense pain and difficulty walking. This type of injury is more common in middle-aged individuals who play sports occasionally or with high impact and those who don't warm up properly before exercising. The healing process for a ruptured Achilles tendon typically involves wearing a cast or brace to immobilise the ankle, physical therapy, and surgery to repair the tendon in severe cases.
Fractures
A fracture is a common injury resulting in a broken bone. It can occur due to a sudden forceful impact, repetitive stress, or weakening of the bone due to a medical condition such as osteoporosis. Fractures can cause a range of symptoms, including pain, swelling, bruising, and limited mobility, depending on the severity of the injury. Treatment for fractures may include immobilisation with a cast or brace, medication for pain and inflammation, and surgery to realign and stabilise the broken bone in severe cases. Proper rest and rehabilitation are crucial for complete healing and recovery.
Dislocations
​Dislocations occur when a bone is forcefully pulled out of its socket due to a sports injury or other trauma. This can result in swelling, weakness, and discomfort in the affected area. Dislocations commonly occur in the shoulder but can also occur in the fingers, hips, and knees. Immediate medical attention is necessary to properly treat a dislocation, as it can lead to further damage and complications if not addressed promptly. Treatment for a dislocation usually involves manually repositioning the bone back into its socket, followed by immobilisation and physical therapy to aid recovery.
How can I Avoid Sports Injuries?
To prevent sports injuries, it is essential to properly stretch and warm up before engaging in physical activity. Adequate warm-up reduces the risk of injury by preparing the body to withstand sudden movements, twists, and impacts. Cold muscles are more susceptible to overstretching and tearing, while warm muscles are more pliable and flexible.
In addition to stretching and warming up, other guidelines can help prevent sports injuries. These include:
Correct movement
Learning the correct movement patterns for your sport or activity, including proper stances and postures, is crucial to prevent injuries. This can help prevent strain on vulnerable areas of the body, such as the spine and hips. For example, bending your knees at the right time in some sports can reduce the risk of injury.
The appropriate footwear
It is essential to wear suitable athletic footwear and gear to lower the risk of injuries. Wearing ill-fitting shoes or equipment increases the chances of getting hurt while exercising. It is therefore essential to ensure proper athletic protection.
Do not overdo it, please.
It's important not to overexert yourself and risk injury. If you get hurt, waiting until you've fully recovered before resuming the activity is best. Don't try to push through the pain, as this may worsen the injury. You may need to gradually ease back into the activity or sport after giving your body adequate time to heal.
Cool down
To prevent injuries and promote recovery, cooling down after exercise is essential. Gradually reducing the intensity of physical activity can help the body return to its pre-exercise state. Repeating some warm-up stretching exercises and movements can facilitate relaxation and recovery. Proper hydration and nutrition are also necessary to support the body's recovery process.
Resume back slowly
​Slowing down your activity when injured is important, but don't delay seeking treatment for too long. Prolonged inactivity may also impede the healing process. Resuming your preferred sport or exercise once you feel better is acceptable. Anyone can be vulnerable to sports injuries regardless of when one last participated in a sport or physical activity. However, several factors can increase the likelihood of injury for you or a loved one.
Childhood
Children's natural curiosity and boundless energy often make them unaware of their physical limitations, making them more susceptible to injuries than adults or teenagers. Their active lifestyles and high energy levels also make them more prone to sports injuries. It's vital to take proper precautions and supervise children during physical activities to minimise their risk of injury.
Age
​As people age, their bodies undergo wear and tear, which increases their risk of injury and prolongs recovery time. This is especially true for individuals older than average, as their bodies may not be as resilient as they once were. Older individuals need to take appropriate precautions, such as proper warm-up and cool-down routines, to reduce their risk of injury and promote recovery.
Carelessness
​Neglecting minor injuries can lead to more serious ones over time. Seeking medical attention early on can help diagnose and treat overuse injuries, such as tendinitis and fractures, before they worsen. It's essential to take proper precautions and avoid carelessness to minimise the risk of injury and promote overall health and well-being.
Being overweight
Carrying excess weight places additional stress on the ankles, knees, and hips, making individuals more susceptible to injury during exercise or sports. Maintaining a healthy weight can help reduce this risk and support joint health. Incorporating low-impact activities such as swimming or cycling can also benefit individuals with weight concerns, as they put less strain on the joints compared to high-impact exercises like running or jumping.
Book An Appointment
Polaris Healthcare has been actively providing Sports Medicine services in Pune for over a decade. With over 20 years of experience in orthopaedics and sports-related injuries, Dr. Surendra Patil has been at the forefront of facilitating sports medicine services to local athletes in Pune and elite national athletes.
The sports injury clinic at Polaris Healthcare comprises a team of orthopaedic doctors, physical therapists, trainers, and nutritionists dedicated to helping patients recover quickly and safely. The clinic adopts a personalised approach to treating each patient, acknowledging that everyone requires individual attention and care. The team designs a customised treatment plan for each patient to ensure the most effective and suitable healing process.