Injuries are bound to happen, whether you’re a seasoned athlete or enjoy sports for fun. While some heal with rest and home care, others may require professional treatment. Does your sports injury call for medical attention? Dig in…

Does it seem odd to be talking about sports injuries on an emotional and mental illness site?

It really isn’t when you consider how vital physical activity is to minimizing suffering.

Let’s see what’s up…

The warning signs

Recognizing the difference between a minor strain and a serious condition can be the key to a faster and more complete recovery.

Not all sports injuries require a trip to the doctor, but  warning signs drop big hints that seeking medical attention is a good idea.

Consider these…

Severe pain that does not  improve

Pain is your body’s way of telling you something is wrong. If you experience intense discomfort that does not subside with rest, ice or over-the-counter medication, you could be dealing with a larger issue.

Pay close attention to sharp pain, throbbing or other conditions that do not improve within a few days.

Swelling and bruising

It’s normal to have some swelling after an injury, but excessive or rapidly worsening swelling can indicate more severe damage. Significant bruising around muscles and joints is another sign of internal bleeding or tearing.

If the swelling and bruising do not improve with rest, ice, compression and elevation within two to five days, it’s time to see a doctor.

Inability to move or bear weight

If you can’t move the injured area or shift your weight, it could signal a fracture or severe sprain. In these cases, it’s essential to avoid further stress on the injury and consult a health care professional.

Numbness or tingling

Experiencing numbness or a pins-and-needles sensation in the injured area may point to nerve damage or compromised blood flow. This is particularly concerning if it takes time to resolve.

Nerve damage can have long-term consequences without proper treatment, so it’s crucial to seek medical evaluation.

Visible deformity

If the affected area looks visibly deformed, this is a clear sign of a serious injury. Whether a bone is out of place or a joint appears swollen or misaligned, these injuries need immediate medical care.

Head injuries and concussions

Any hit to the head that results in loss of consciousness, nausea or dizziness is serious. Even if it’s a mild one, concussions can have lasting effects without treatment. Therefore, seeking medical attention right away is crucial if you experience any of these symptoms.

The importance of seeking a medical diagnosis and what to expect

If the warning signs are there, don’t think twice.

While it may be tempting to push through the pain or wait for it to heal on its own, seeking a proper medical diagnosis is critical to ensuring long-term recovery and preventing further complications.

A professional assessment can identify the exact nature of the injury and provide a roadmap for appropriate treatment and rehabilitation.

Physical medicine and rehabilitation

One key specialist to consider for sports and work-related injuries is a physiatrist. This is a physician who focuses on rehabilitation and physical medicine. They have specialized training to address the physical damage caused by an injury and help patients regain a reasonable level of functionality.

Their goal is to restore strength, mobility and overall performance through tailored treatment plans. Whether your treatment includes physical therapy, pain management or nonsurgical interventions, getting an expert evaluation can prevent a small issue from becoming a lifelong limitation.

Common types of sports injuries

Sports afflictions can range from mild discomfort to serious conditions that require immediate attention. Knowing the most common types of injuries helps you understand what your body may be going through and whether you should see a doctor for a sports injury.

Below are some of the injuries athletes frequently experience across various sports.

Strains and sprains

Strains and sprains are the most common sports injuries. Approximately 25,000 ankle sprains occur daily, often affecting muscles, ligaments and tendons. Strains happen when you overstretch or tear a muscle, while sprains involve overstretching or tearing of ligaments. These afflictions typically occur during quick movements, sudden twists or improper landings.

Fractures and dislocations

High-impact sports can result in broken bones or dislocations, where an accident forces the bone out of its normal position. While fractures can vary in severity, both conditions typically require immediate medical attention to ensure proper healing.

Muscle wounds

Muscle injuries – especially in the thigh area – are also common in sports involving running and sudden direction changes. For example, one study found thigh muscle afflictions were the most common in women’s soccer, with hamstrings accounting for 12% and quadriceps 11%.

Though these incidents are frequent, the study also found anterior cruciate ligaments (ACLs) carry the highest burden. In fact, players lost an average of 30 days per 1,000 hours of play. These results are not surprising since research shows ACL tears are the most common injuries in women due to their hip and pelvis mobility differences compared to men.

Tendon injury

Overuse of certain joints or muscles leads to tendonitis – an inflammation of the tendons. This injury often results from repetitive motion sports like swimming, tennis or running and may worsen over time if not addressed properly.

Concussions

Head injuries are another significant concern in sports, especially football, hockey and boxing. A concussion is a brain injury that occurs due to a blow to the head. Immediate symptoms like dizziness, confusion and headaches often require immediate medical evaluation.

When should I see a doctor for my sports injury?

Sports injuries come with the territory when leading an active lifestyle, but knowing when you should see a doctor is crucial in ensuring a safe and effective recovery.

Whether you’re dealing with a minor sprain or a more serious condition, recognizing the warning signs can prevent long-term complications.

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Beth is the mental health editor at Body+Mind. She has five-plus years of experience writing about behavioral health, specifically mindfulness-based cognitive therapy. Beth also writes about the power of human design to reveal our full potential and purpose. You can find her on X @bodymindmag.