What are common types of sports-related injuries?
Ankle Sprain
An ankle sprain is an injury to one or more ligaments in the ankle. Ligaments are bands of tissue—like rubber bands—that connect one bone to another and bind the joints together. The severity of an ankle sprain depends on whether the ligament is stretched, partially torn or completely torn.
Symptoms of an Ankle Sprain:
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Pain or soreness
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Swelling
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Bruising
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Difficulty walking
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Stiffness in the joint
Treatment:
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Early physical therapy
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Oral pain and anti-inflammatory medications
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Surgery (in severe cases to repair ligaments)
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Rest
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Ice
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Compression
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Elevation
Ankle Fractures
A fracture is a partial or complete break in a bone, most often caused by the ankle rolling inward or outward. Many people mistake an ankle fracture for an ankle sprain (although they can occur simultaneously).
Symptoms of an Ankle Fracture:
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Pain
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Swelling
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Blisters
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Bruising
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Inability to walk
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Bone protruding through the skin
Treatment:
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Rest
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Ice
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Compression
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Elevation
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Immobilization using a cast or splint
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Prescription medications
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Surgery (in severe cases)
Stress Fracture
Stress fractures are tiny hairline breaks that can occur in any of the bones of the foot. They can be caused by overtraining or overuse; improper training habits, surfaces, or shoes; flat feet; and osteoporosis. A foot and ankle surgeon should be seen as early as possible to start treatment and possibly shorten the recovery time.
Symptoms of Stress Fractures:
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Pain
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Swelling
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Redness
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Bruising
Treatment:
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Rest
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Immobilization
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Surgery (in severe cases)
