At Austin Orthopedic Institute, we recognize the profound impact that sports injuries can have on your health and mobility. As some of the best orthopedic doctors in Austin, our orthopedic sports medicine doctors are dedicated to providing comprehensive care for athletes and active individuals of all ages.
What is Orthopedic Sports Medicine?
Orthopedic sports medicine is a specialized field that focuses on preventing, diagnosing, and treating injuries related to sports and physical activities. This discipline encompasses a wide range of issues, from acute injuries sustained during play to chronic conditions that develop over time due to repetitive motion or overuse. Our orthopedic sports medicine doctors are trained to address various sports-related injuries, ensuring that individuals can return to their favorite activities safely and effectively.
Diagnosing Sports Injuries
When you visit our sports injury doctor, the first step is a thorough assessment of your overall health, history, and specific symptoms. Our providers have extensive experience listening to patients’ stories, allowing them to often arrive at a diagnosis based primarily on the patient’s account.
In cases where a clear diagnosis is not readily apparent, we may perform diagnostic tests such as X-rays or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans to gain a better understanding of the injury. This comprehensive diagnostic approach enables us to tailor treatment plans that meet each patient’s needs.
Treatment Options for Sports Injuries
At Austin Orthopedic Institute, we offer a variety of treatment options designed to ensure optimal recovery from sports injuries:
Rest and Rehabilitation
A fundamental aspect of treating sports injuries is allowing the body to heal properly. We often recommend strategies like rest, ice, compression, and elevation (the RICE protocol) to manage swelling and pain.
Targeted Physical Therapy
Sometimes, the underlying issue with a sports injury is not a specific structural problem, but rather a dysfunction in how the body performs movements. Our approach includes targeted physical therapy to “recalibrate” the body’s system.
Injections
In some cases, steroid injections may be beneficial for reducing inflammation and facilitating healing. While there is ongoing debate surrounding their use, when administered correctly, they can play a crucial role in treatment.
Surgical Interventions
While our goal is to avoid surgery whenever possible, there are times when surgical intervention becomes necessary. Some injuries, such as torn ACLs or recurrent shoulder dislocations, may require specialized surgical techniques to properly address the issue. Our orthopedic sports medicine doctors have extensive experience in performing both straightforward arthroscopies and complex ligament reconstruction procedures.
The Importance of Preventive Care
Our orthopedic sports medicine doctors take a holistic approach to care, emphasizing the importance of injury prevention. We believe that education and conditioning are critical components in helping athletes minimize their risk of injury.
If you’re experiencing a sports-related injury, don’t hesitate to contact us to schedule an appointment with one of our experts. Let us help you get back to doing what you love!
