Sports Injury Specialist

What Are Common Sports Injuries?

The most common sports injuries are strains or sprains. During sports, these injuries typically occur when the patient collides with something or when they suddenly change directions and the body twists or bends in an unnatural direction. Some of the most common sports injuries affecting the shoulders and arms, knees, feet and ankles include:

• Sprains, injuries that affect the ligaments and which may include overstretching a ligament or complete or partial tears of a ligament
• Strains, which involve injury to the tendons and muscles
• Fractures, both simple and complex
• Nerve injuries that can accompany direct and indirect impact-related injuries, causing pain, numbness and other issues, and even affecting balance
• Bruising of deep tissues
• Heel spurs, small, bony projections that form on the bottom of the foot that often develop as a result of repeated impact

What Treatments Are Used for Sports Injuries?

Dr. Christensen uses a variety of treatments to help his patients to find pain relief and to fully heal and recovery from any injuries sustained while living an active life. Treatment typically begins conservatively with pain reliever medicines including NSAID’s such as ibuprofen which reduce swelling. In some cases, immobilization will be needed to prevent any additional damage. Immobilizing devices like slings, splints, casts, boots and air casts also provide support to the injury which reduces pain, swelling, and spasms. Physiotherapy may be recommended to help recovery from a long-term injury and include modalities such as massage, supervised exercise, and other manual therapies to improve the range of motion, strength, and flexibility of the injured area. If the injury is severe, Dr. Christensen may suggest surgery.

What Should I Do During Recovery?

Dr. Christensen will give you specific instructions on how to take care of your sports injury while at home and in between appointments. Rest, ice, compression, and elevation are common components of at home care. Make sure to follow the doctor’s instructions and to move slowly through gentle exercises as your body heals. Don’t rush yourself as it could make the injury worse and lengthen the time the treatment is needed. Dr. Christensen may prescribe pain killers for the initial days following the injury or for after any surgery to limit inflammation and swelling while relieving any pain.