Our Services / Sports Injuries

What causes sports injuries?

Sports injuries can occur due to various reasons, including:

• Overuse: Repeating the same motion over time, such as running or jumping, can strain muscles and tendons.
• Trauma: Sudden impacts or falls during sports activities can cause sprains, strains, or fractures.
• Improper technique: Incorrect form or posture while playing sports, such as in pickleball, can increase the risk of injury.
• Inadequate warm-up or conditioning: Not warming up properly before physical activity or inadequate conditioning can lead to injuries.
  
  

Understanding the cause of your injury helps in developing an appropriate treatment plan for recovery.

What are signs you should see a doctor?

It’s important to seek medical attention if you experience:

• Severe pain: Intense or persistent pain that doesn’t improve with rest.
• Swelling or bruising: Signs of inflammation or discoloration around the injured area.
• Difficulty bearing weight: Trouble walking or putting weight on the affected limb.
• Limited range of motion: Inability to move the injured area normally.
• Numbness or tingling: Sensations that may indicate nerve involvement.

Prompt evaluation by a specialist can prevent further damage and promote faster healing.

How are sports injuries treated?

At Lake Washington Foot and Ankle Clinic, Dr. Prakash offers comprehensive treatment options tailored to your specific injury, including:

• Rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE): Initial steps to reduce swelling and relieve pain.
• Physical therapy: Targeted exercises to strengthen muscles, improve flexibility, and enhance overall function.
• Bracing or immobilization: Devices like splints or braces to stabilize the injured area during healing.
• Medications: Pain relievers or anti-inflammatories to manage discomfort and reduce inflammation.
• Minimally invasive procedures: When necessary, surgical interventions to repair severe injuries like tendon tears or fractures.

Muscle Pain and Tendon Pain

Muscle pain (myalgia) and tendon pain (tendinitis) are common in sports injuries. Myalgia can result from muscle strain or overuse, while tendinitis often occurs due to repetitive stress on tendons. These conditions may require targeted treatments such as stretching exercises, massage therapy, or in some cases, corticosteroid injections to alleviate pain and promote healing.

At Lake Washington Foot and Ankle Clinic, Dr. Prakash is committed to delivering personalized care and effective treatments to help you recover from sports injuries. Whether you’re a competitive athlete or a recreational enthusiast, his goal is to support your journey to optimal recovery and performance. Contact the office by phone or online to schedule a consultation.