Playing sports is a great way to stay active and healthy, but it can also lead to injuries. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or just enjoy a weekend game, accidents can happen. At Davam Urgent Care, we’re here to help you understand the most common sports injuries and when to seek treatment.
Common Sports Injuries
- Sprains and Strains
- Sprains occur when ligaments (tissue connecting bones) are stretched or torn, while strains affect muscles or tendons. These injuries are common in sports that involve jumping, running, or sudden changes in direction, like basketball, soccer, and tennis. Symptoms include pain, swelling, and limited range of motion.
- Fractures
- A fracture is a broken bone, and it’s more common in contact sports like football or high-impact sports such as gymnastics. Fractures can vary in severity from stress fractures (small cracks in the bone) to complete breaks. Signs include severe pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty moving the affected area.
- Dislocations
- A dislocation happens when bones are forced out of their normal position, usually in joints like the shoulder, elbow, or knee. This injury can occur in sports like basketball or volleyball, where sudden impacts or falls are common. Dislocations are very painful and cause visible deformity.
- Tendonitis
- Tendonitis is the inflammation of a tendon, often caused by repetitive motion. Athletes in sports like running, swimming, or tennis may develop tendonitis, especially in the shoulders, elbows, or knees. Symptoms include pain, swelling, and tenderness over the affected tendon.
- Concussions
- A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury caused by a blow to the head or body that jolts the brain. Concussions are most common in contact sports like football or soccer. Symptoms include headaches, dizziness, confusion, and sensitivity to light or sound. It’s essential to treat concussions seriously, as repeated head injuries can lead to long-term complications.
- Knee Injuries (ACL Tears, Meniscus Injuries)
- Knee injuries are prevalent in sports that require sudden stops, twists, or pivots, such as basketball, soccer, and skiing. A torn ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) or a meniscus tear can cause severe pain, swelling, instability, and difficulty walking.
When to Seek Treatment
Knowing when to seek medical attention is crucial for preventing long-term damage. Here’s when you should visit Davam Urgent Care for your sports injury:
- Pain that doesn’t improve
- If pain persists despite rest and home remedies, it’s time to see a healthcare provider. Lingering pain can be a sign of a more severe injury, like a fracture or torn ligament.
- Swelling and bruising
- Significant swelling or bruising that worsens over time could indicate a more serious issue, like a sprain, strain, or fracture.
- Limited mobility
- If you cannot move the injured body part, or if movement causes extreme pain, you should seek urgent care. This is especially important for joint injuries, where movement could worsen the condition.
- Numbness or tingling
- Numbness, tingling, or loss of sensation can indicate nerve damage, which requires prompt treatment.
- Head injuries
- Any blow to the head should be taken seriously. If you suspect a concussion—especially if symptoms like confusion, dizziness, or headaches occur—seek medical attention right away.
- Inability to bear weight
- If you can’t put weight on your leg, foot, or ankle, or if the pain is severe when walking or standing, it could indicate a serious injury like a fracture or ligament tear.
Treatment Options at Davam Urgent Care
At Davam Urgent Care, we provide comprehensive care for sports injuries, from diagnosis to treatment. Our services include:
- X-rays to identify fractures or dislocations
- Splinting and casting for broken bones
- Braces and supports for sprains, strains, and other joint injuries
- Wound care for cuts, scrapes, or bruises
- Concussion evaluation and management
We can help you manage your recovery, providing personalized treatment plans to ensure you heal properly and avoid further injury.
Tips to Prevent Sports Injuries
While injuries can’t always be avoided, following these tips can help reduce your risk:
- Warm up and stretch before physical activity to improve flexibility and reduce the risk of strains.
- Use proper technique and equipment for your sport to minimize injury risks.
- Stay hydrated and maintain a healthy diet to support muscle and joint function.
- Listen to your body—if something feels off, don’t push through the pain. Rest and recover to prevent long-term damage.
Visit Davam Urgent Care
Whether you’re recovering from a sprained ankle, seeking treatment for a broken bone, or evaluating a concussion, Davam Urgent Care is here to help. Sports injuries can be frustrating, but with the right care, you can get back on your feet—and back in the game—faster.
If you’ve suffered a sports injury, don’t wait to get the care you need. Visit Davam Urgent Care today for fast, professional treatment without the long wait times of the ER. Walk-ins are always welcome!