Sports Injuries

Sports injuries can result from overuse, accidents, or intense physical activity and are common among athletes and other active people. The Capital Podiatry Associates team in Alexandria, Virginia, led by board-certified podiatrists Leland Gilmore, DPM, and Shalin Panchigar, DPM, treats sports injuries ranging from minor sprains to severe conditions like fractures. Learn more about properly caring for your sports injury with rest and rehabilitation. Call or book an appointment online today.

What are sports injuries?

Sports injuries occur when physical activity damages the body’s bones and/or the muscles, ligaments, and other soft tissues. These injuries can be anything from mild strains to severe damage and often are caused by overexertion, improper technique, or accidents during athletic activities.

How do sports injuries differ from others?

Sports injuries are unique because they can be caused by repetitive motion, high-impact activities, or sudden force. Unlike general injuries, sports injuries typically involve specific movements, like running, jumping, and pivoting.

They can also occur when pushing your physical limits during training or competition, requiring specialized treatment and rehabilitation to restore full function and prevent repeated injury.

What types of sports injuries are there?

Sports injuries can be categorized into the following types:

Acute and traumatic sports injuries

These occur suddenly during activity, often from accidents or impacts. Examples include bone fractures, ligament sprains, joint dislocations, and muscle tears. Symptoms are immediate and include pain, swelling, and limited mobility.

Overuse injuries

These develop over time and are caused by repetitive stress on a specific area. Examples include stress fractures, shin splints, and tendinitis. Overuse injuries are often caused by improper technique, too little rest, and overtraining.

Chronic injuries

Chronic injuries persist over long periods, usually stemming from untreated or poorly managed acute or overuse injuries.

Soft-tissue injuries

Soft-tissue injuries like strains and sprains affect your muscles, tendons, and ligaments.

Joint injuries

These include damage to your knees, shoulders, or ankles, often caused by twisting motions or falls.

How are sports injuries treated?

At Capital Podiatry Associates, the podiatry team’s recommended treatments depend on the type and severity of your injury and can include:

RICE method

The RICE method (rest, ice, compression, and elevation) immediately cares for acute injuries.

Physical therapy

Physical therapy rehabilitates strength, flexibility, and range of motion.

Medication

Taking anti-inflammatory drugs can reduce pain and swelling.

Advanced therapies

Treatments like shockwave therapy, MLS laser therapy, and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections for tissue repair.

Surgery 

Surgery may be necessary in severe cases like torn ligaments or fractures requiring reconstruction.

A correct diagnosis and prompt treatment are necessary for recovery and preventing long-term complications.

Whether you’re an athlete or participate in active sports recreationally, call or book an appointment online with the Capital Podiatry Associates team today to learn more or receive treatment.