Sports Injuries Specialist

Who gets sports injuries?

Anyone can get a sports injury, but you may be at higher risk if you play contact sports like football or hockey, don’t warm up and cool down properly, or begin a new sport or exercise program after a period of inactivity.

If you or your teen gets a sports injury, the team at Healing Rehab Physical Therapy SC can help.

What are some common types of sports injuries?

Sports injuries usually happen in one of two ways: suddenly, like during a fall or direct contact, or gradually, from overuse and repetitive motions. The team at Healing Rehab Physical Therapy SC evaluates and treats a wide range of sports injuries, including:

Sprains and strains

Sprains and strains happen when you overstretch or tear ligaments or muscles and tendons. These injuries have many similar symptoms, including joint pain, swelling, limited flexibility, and difficulty using the injured body part. Ankle sprains and hamstring strains are two common examples.

Knee injuries

Overstretching or tearing any of the tissues in your knee can result in a debilitating sports injury. Common sports injuries that affect the knee include anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries, meniscus tears, and patellofemoral pain syndrome, also known as runner’s knee.

Rotator cuff injuries

The rotator cuff is a group of muscles in your shoulder that help lift and rotate your arm. Most rotator cuff tears are the result of overuse, occurring over time, but you can injure your rotator cuff in a bad fall or collision with another player.

Achilles tendon injuries

Pain and swelling at the back of your ankle above your heel is likely the result of an Achilles tendon injury. Achilles tendonitis and tendon tears are two sports injuries that cause ankle pain and difficulty running and jumping.

How does physical therapy help treat sports injuries?

Physical therapy is often the first line of treatment for mild to moderate sports injuries. If your injury is severe enough to require surgery, such as a completely torn tendon or ligament, physical therapy is an essential part of your post-surgical rehabilitation plan.

The licensed practitioners at Healing Rehab Physical Therapy SC perform a comprehensive evaluation and design a customized program aimed at getting you back to your normal activities as quickly and safely as possible. Depending on your needs, your physical therapy and rehabilitation plan may include:

• Targeted stretching and strengthening exercises
• Hot and cold packs
• Dry needling
• Laser therapy
• Anodyne® therapy
• Massage therapy
• Ultrasound therapy
• Electrotherapy
• Home care

The team at Healing Rehab Physical Therapy SC also recommends steps to take to prevent sports injuries in the future.

For holistic care of sports injuries, call Healing Rehab Physical Therapy SC today or request an appointment online.