How Are Sports Injuries Treated?

How Are Sports Injuries Treated?

Sports injuries are common during physical activities. These types of injuries usually damage the muscles, joints, bones and ligaments. Treatment methods vary depending on the type of injury.

Here is a general guide to the treatment of sports injuries:

1. I.C.E. Method (Rest, Ice, Bandaging, Elevation):

The R.I.C.E. method is the most common and basic treatment method for conditions such as sprains, muscle strains, tendon strains and minor joint injuries.

R.I.C.E. Method Description:

• Rest:

Resting the injured area prevents further progression of the injury.

• Ice:

To reduce swelling and pain, ice should be applied for 20 minutes in the first 48 hours. Ice should not come into direct contact with the skin. It should be wrapped in a cloth or towel.

• Compression:

Swelling can be reduced by applying an elastic bandage to the injured area. The bandage should not be wrapped tightly.

• Elevation:

The injured area should be kept above the level of the heart. This will reduce blood flow and swelling.

2. Arm – Leg – Knee Injuries:

Minor Injuries (Sprains, Strains, Minor Traumas) Treatment Methods:

RICE Protocol:

• Rest:

Avoid movements that put weight on the knee.

• Ice:

Apply ice for 15-20 minutes every few hours to reduce swelling.

• Compression:

Control swelling by wrapping the knee with an elastic bandage.

• Elevation:

Improve blood circulation by keeping the knee above the heart.

• Painkillers and Anti-Inflammatory Medications:

Ibuprofen or paracetamol can be used to reduce pain and swelling.

• Physiotherapy:

Exercises that strengthen muscles and increase knee stability.

Ligament Injuries (Anterior Cruciate Ligament, Posterior Cruciate Ligament, Medial and External Lateral Ligaments):

Anterior Cruciate Ligament Surgical Treatment:

Surgical treatments are performed in cases of necessity.
And they are treatments of last resort.
Surgical treatments should not be applied without providing the necessary conditions. Preserving the naturalness of the body should be the first priority in treatments. Postponing surgeries as much as possible should aim to gain time for the patient.
And the natural body structure should be preserved.
Arthroscopy is used in anterior cruciate ligament injuries.
If possible, arthroscopy aims to heal the patient’s own ligament by stitching it back to its former function.
Surgical treatment in anterior cruciate ligament injuries is the creation of a new ligament in place of the torn ligament, in other words, anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction. This is one of the most frequently performed surgeries.

Posterior Cruciate Ligament Tear Treatment:

• Conservative Treatment:

Non-surgical approaches can be used in mild PCL tears and in some patients. This approach usually includes knee braces, physical therapy and rehabilitation programs. Physiotherapy is important for increasing muscle strength, maintaining the range of motion of the knee joint and improving stability.

• Surgical Intervention:

PCL tears usually require surgery.
Especially for athletes or patients with knee stability issues and multiple ligament injuries in the knee.
Surgical treatment can vary depending on the type of tear and the needs of the patient.
During surgery, the torn ligament can be repaired. Or reconstructed (secured with other tissue). This procedure is usually performed using stitches or grafts.

Treatment of Medial and External Collateral Ligaments:

• Median Collateral Ligament:

Physical therapy should be considered first. Different programs are applied depending on the severity of the injury.

• In Stage I İnjuries:

Elevating the leg above the level of the heart and applying ice are recommended. Short-term use of crutches is recommended. It is allowed to bear weight on it as much as the pain allows. It is important to start moving early.

• In Stage II İnjuries:

A hinged knee brace that allows movement is given. It is allowed to bear weight on it as much as the pain allows. Exercises are started to strengthen the muscles around the knee without putting stress on the ligaments.

• In Stage III İnjuries:

The knee brace should be used for at least four weeks. It should not be loaded early.
The recovery period for these injuries is 8-12 weeks.
Non-surgical methods are often sufficient for medial collateral ligament injuries. However, if the patient does not benefit from this treatment, they should be re-evaluated for cruciate ligament or meniscus lesions. And surgical planning should be done.

External Collateral Ligament:

• In Stage I and II injuries:

It is treated like the medial collateral ligament. However, a hinged knee brace should be used for at least 4-6 weeks.

• In Stage III injuries:

Surgery is required. Because the posterolateral corner often accompanies the injury. And there is a loss of stability during rotation of the knee.

A knee brace and an intensive physical therapy program are required for approximately 3 months after surgery.

Meniscus Tear Treatment:

• Conservative Treatment:

Conservative methods are generally preferred for small and painless tears. This type of treatment focuses on managing symptoms and healing without the need for surgical intervention.

• Rest:

The knee joint is rested to prevent the tear from progressing.

• Ice Application:

Short-term ice is applied several times a day to reduce swelling and pain.

• Knee Support:

Special knee braces are used to stabilize the knee and prevent strain.

• Anti-inflammatory Medications:

Prescription or over-the-counter medications can be used to reduce pain and inflammation.

• Physical Therapy:

Exercises to strengthen the muscles help support the knee and maintain range of motion.

Arthroscopic Surgery (Laparoscopic Method):

Minimally invasive surgical methods are applied for larger or symptomatic meniscus tears.

• Small Incision Intervention:

The tear is repaired using a camera and surgical instruments through a small incision made in the knee.

• Fast Recovery:

This method offers a shorter recovery time compared to traditional open surgeries.

• Repair and Stabilization:

The torn area is repaired and the stability of the joint is maintained.

Meniscus Repair or Meniscus Removal:

Depending on the type of tear, repair or removal of a portion of the meniscus may be required.

• Meniscus Repair:

If possible, the tear is stitched to preserve the natural structure. This method is preferred more in young and active individuals.

• Meniscus Removal (Partial Meniscectomy):

In large tears that cannot be repaired, the damaged portion of the meniscus is removed.

• Preservation of Knee Function:

Even in cases where the meniscus is removed, the knee joint can be made functional with appropriate rehabilitation.

The recovery process after meniscus treatment also varies from person to person. Generally, those who recover with conservative treatment can return to normal activities within 4-6 weeks, while those who undergo surgical treatment may take between 3-6 months.

3. Stress Fracture:

When asked how many days does it take for a stress fracture to heal, it is often not possible to give a clear answer. Because stress fracture treatment may vary depending on the location of the fracture and the severity of the symptoms.

Commonly used treatment methods can be listed as follows:

• Rest:

Stopping the physical activity or sport that caused the fracture is among the common treatment methods.

• Ice Application:

Ice can be applied to the painful bone. It can be wrapped in a towel so that the ice pieces do not directly contact the skin. Ice wrapped in a towel is placed on the area where the fracture is. The doctor tells the patient how often and for how long ice will be applied.

• Painkillers:

Painkillers can be prescribed to reduce pain caused by fractures. The doctor also determines which painkiller is suitable for the patient.

Keeping the injured bone above the level of the heart: The injured bone should be kept above the level of the heart as much as possible. For stress fractures that occur in the legs and feet, a pillow or cushion can be placed under the foot while lying down.

• Cast:

Depending on the severity of the fracture, the area can be cast. In this way, the load on the fracture is reduced and the bone heals more quickly.

4. Patellar Tendinitis:

• Rest:

The first step in treating patellar tendonitis is to stop overuse and rest the knee. This can help reduce inflammation.

• Ice:

To reduce pain and inflammation, ice can be applied to the knee at regular intervals. This can help reduce swelling.

• Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs):

Medications recommended by a doctor can be used to reduce inflammation and pain.

• Physical Therapy (Rehabilitation):

Physical therapy aims to gain strength and flexibility in the tendon. Exercises that stretch and strengthen the patellar tendon in particular can be helpful. These exercises should be aimed at strengthening the muscles around the knee.

• Kinesiology Taping:

Some patients can find relief with special tapes (kinesiology tape) placed around the knee.

• Orthopedic Aids:

Knee braces or orthopedic shoes that relieve the load on the patellar tendon may be recommended to stabilize the joint below the knee.

• Corticosteroid Injections:

In severe cases, your doctor may recommend corticosteroid injections to control pain. However, this treatment is not a long-term solution. It is usually used in addition to other treatments.

• Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) Treatment:

PRP treatment is a treatment method that includes growth factors obtained from the patient’s own blood. It can speed up tendon healing.

• Surgery:

If conservative treatment methods are not successful and pain persists, surgery may be necessary. This may involve repairing the tendon or removing the damaged tissue.

5. Rotator Cuff Tear:

Conservative Treatment (Non-Surgical Approach):

• Rest and Activity Restriction:

Resting the shoulder where the tear is located can speed up the healing process. Activities that cause pain should be avoided. It is important not to overexert the shoulder at first.

• Ice Application:

Regularly applying ice to the shoulder area can reduce swelling and pain. It is necessary to apply the ice by wrapping it with a cloth so as not to apply it directly to the skin.

• Drug Therapy:

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can be used to control pain and inflammation. These drugs help relieve pain and reduce inflammation.

• Physical Therapy:

Physical therapists can recommend various exercises to strengthen the muscles in the shoulder, increase flexibility and range of motion. They can often be effective in cases where surgery is not required.

• Steroid Injections:

Corticosteroid injections can be used to control severe pain. However, this treatment is not a long-term solution and only provides temporary relief.

• Surgery:

If conservative treatment methods are not effective or if the tear is large, surgery may be necessary. Surgical options may include:

• Arthroscopic Surgery:

Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure. In this procedure, a small camera is inserted into the shoulder joint and the tear is repaired. Since arthroscopic surgery is performed through smaller incisions, recovery is faster.

• Open Surgery:

Some larger tears or complex cases may require open surgery. This procedure is performed through a larger incision and the recovery process may be longer. However, it may be more effective in some cases.

• Tendon Repair or Reconstruction:

When the rotator cuff tendons are torn, the surgeon can repair or reconstruct the tendons. If the tendon is completely torn, the surgeon can replace the tendon using a graft (usually tissue taken from another part of the body).

• Tendon Transfer:

If the tendon cannot be repaired, some patients may need to use a tendon from another muscle. This is known as a tendon transfer.

6. Hand and Finger Injuries:

• First Aid:

First aid steps that can be applied immediately after an injury:

• Rest:

Avoid moving the injured hand or finger.

• Cold Application:

Apply an ice pack to the injured area (wrapped in a towel, not directly to the skin) for 15-20 minutes to reduce swelling and relieve pain.

• Wrap The Area:

If there is bleeding, lightly wrap it with sterile gauze or a bandage.

• Clean the Wound:

If there is an open wound, wash the area with clean water and apply an antiseptic solution to prevent infection.

• Elevation:

Keep the injured hand above the level of the heart to reduce swelling.

Treatment of Minor Injuries:

• Sprain or Strain:

Rest, cold application and compression with a bandage can be applied.

Painkillers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen can be used for minor pain.

• Superficial Cuts and Abrasions:

After cleaning the wound, apply antibiotic cream and cover it with a bandage.

Reduce the risk of infection by taking care of the wound daily.

Treatment of Moderate and Severe Injuries:

• Fractures:

A broken finger or hand bone is usually cast or splinted.

In cases of severe fractures, surgical intervention may be required (for example, placement of a plate or screw).

• Dislocations:

A dislocated finger joint or wrist is usually put back into place by a healthcare professional.

It is then immobilized with a splint or bandage.

• Tendon or Nerve Injuries:

If the cuts affect nerves or tendons, microsurgery may be required.

Physical therapy and rehabilitation are important for nerve and tendon healing.

• Deep Cuts:

Stitches may be required. If the injury is caused by a dirty object, a tetanus shot is recommended.

• Crush Injuries:

Serious crush injuries can cause muscle, nerve and vascular damage. In this case, surgical intervention may be necessary.

• Rehabilitation and Physical Therapy:

Physical therapy may be required to restore mobility and strength after an injury.

Exercises help reduce joint stiffness and increase muscle strength.

• Infection Treatment:

If there are signs of infection after the injury (such as redness, swelling, increased warmth or discharge), antibiotic treatment may be applied.

In cases of severe infection, wound debridement (cleaning of infected tissue) may be performed.

Surgery:

• Complex Fractures:

Stabilization of bones with plates, screws or wires.

• Tendon and Nerve Repairs:

Tendon ruptures or nerve injuries can be repaired with microsurgical techniques.

• Amputations:

In cases of severe crushing or fragmentation, partial or complete removal of the damaged finger may be required.

Alternative Methods:

• Use of Splints or Splints:

Speeds up healing by immobilizing the finger or hand.

• Steroid Injections:

May sometimes be recommended to reduce pain and inflammation (for example, in cases of tendonitis).

7. Arm and Leg Injuries:

Treatment methods for arm and leg injuries vary depending on the type of injury, severity and the tissue affected (bone, muscle, ligament, nerve, tendon or vein). Here are general treatment methods for different types of injuries:

Muscle Strains and Tensions Treatment Methods:

RICE Protocol:

• Rest:

Do not strain the injured area.

• Ice:

Apply ice at 15-20 minute intervals for the first 48 hours.

• Compression:

Support the area with an elastic bandage.

• Elevation:

Raise the injured part above the level of the heart to reduce swelling.

• Painkillers and Anti-inflammatory Drugs:

Pain and inflammation can be controlled with medications such as ibuprofen or paracetamol.

• Physiotherapy:

Exercises are performed under the supervision of a specialist to restore muscle flexibility and strength.

• Massage and Ultrasound Therapy:

Can speed up muscle recovery.

Sprains and Ligament Injuries Treatment Methods:

• Supportive Devices:

The use of knee braces, splints or elastic bandages is recommended to stabilize the ligaments.

• Ice Application:

Reduces pain and swelling.

• Physiotherapy:

Special exercises to strengthen the muscles and ligaments.

• Surgery (Serious Injuries):

Reconstruction of torn ligaments may be necessary (such as anterior cruciate ligament injuries in the knee).

Fractures Treatment Methods:

• Closed Reduction and Cast:

In mild fractures, a cast or splint is applied after the bone is set in place.

• Surgery:

In comminuted fractures or displaced bones, stabilization is achieved using plates, screws or nails.

• Physiotherapy:

After the bone has healed, physical therapy is applied to restore muscle strength and mobility.

• Vitamin and Mineral Supplements:

Vitamin D and calcium supplements may be recommended to support bone healing.

Bruises and Soft Tissue Injuries Treatment Methods:

RICE Protocol:

It is the first treatment method applied after bruising.

• Painkillers:

Used to control severe pain.

• Physical Therapy and Massage:

Accelerates the healing process by increasing blood circulation.

• Surgical Intervention:

If there is serious damage to the veins, nerves or tendons, surgical treatment may be required.

Muscle Tears Treatment Methods:

• Mild and Moderate Injuries:

Rest, ice application and physical therapy are recommended.

• Serious Muscle Tears:

Surgery may be required to repair torn muscle tissue.

Tendon Injuries Treatment Methods:

• Rest and Support:

Immobility is provided to prevent tendon strain.

• Physiotherapy:

Exercises to increase the flexibility and durability of the tendon.

• Surgical Treatment:

Ruptured tendons may need to be stitched or repaired (for example, Achilles tendon tears).

Nerve Injuries Treatment Methods:

• Nerve Repair:

Damaged nerves may require surgical repair.

• Physiotherapy:

Special exercises are performed to restore nerve function.

• Drug Therapy:

Neuropathic painkillers may be used to relieve nerve pain.

Joint Dislocations Treatment Methods:

• Closed Reduction:

The dislocated joint is placed in place.

• Plaster or Splint:

Immobilization is provided until the joint heals.

• Surgery:

Surgery may be required in cases of recurrent dislocations or serious ligament damage.

Rehabilitation:

Physical therapy to restore joint stability and mobility after dislocation.

8. Back and Spine Injuries:

Muscle and Ligament Strains Treatment Methods:

• Rest:

It is important not to strain the injured area, but complete immobility should be avoided.

• Ice and Heat Application:

Ice can be applied for the first 48 hours; after that, heat application can be preferred to increase blood circulation.

• Painkillers and Anti-inflammatory Drugs:

Drugs such as ibuprofen can be used to relieve muscle pain.

• Physiotherapy:

Exercises that strengthen the muscles and increase flexibility are performed.

• Massage and Manual Therapy:

Supports healing by reducing tension in the muscles.

Spinal Disc Injuries (Hernia, Disc Degeneration) Treatment Methods:

Conservative Treatment:

• Rest:

Movements that increase pain are avoided.

• Physiotherapy:

Exercises aimed at reducing pressure on the disc and stabilizing the spine.

• Painkillers and Muscle Relaxants:

Reduces nerve compression and muscle spasms.

• Epidural Steroid Injections:

Can be applied to reduce inflammation on the nerve root in cases of severe pain.

• Surgical Treatment (Serious Cases):

Microdiscectomy or Laminectomy: Removal of the part of the disc that is pressing on the nerve.

• Spinal Fusion:

Fixing the vertebrae and restricting movement.

Spinal Fractures Treatment Methods:

• Stabilization:

For mild fractures, the spine is immobilized using a corset or splint.

Surgical Intervention:

• Vertebroplasty or Kyphoplasty:

Stabilization of the fracture with bone cement injection.

• Spinal Instrumentation:

Fixation of the spine with plates, rods or screws.

• Rehabilitation:

Physical therapy is applied to regain mobility and strengthen the muscles.

Spinal Cord Injury Treatment Methods:

• Emergency Intervention:

Early intervention in spinal cord injury is critical to prevent permanent damage.

Corticosteroids (e.g., methylprednisolone) may be administered to reduce inflammation and nerve damage.

• Surgical Treatment:

Realignment of the vertebrae or relief of pressure on damaged nerves may be necessary.

• Rehabilitation:

Physical therapy may help restore functions such as bladder and bowel control.

Occupational therapy is applied to facilitate daily activities.

Nerve Root and Nerve Injuries Treatment Methods:

• Pain Management:

Drug therapy and nerve blocks to control pain due to nerve root compression.

• Physiotherapy:

Exercises that reduce pressure on the nerve and increase range of motion.

• Surgical Intervention:

Nerve decompression surgery may be performed to relieve nerve compression.

Spinal Curvatures such as Scoliosis, Kyphosis or Lordosis Treatment Methods:

• Physical Therapy and Exercise:

Special programs to correct posture and provide muscle balance.

• Use of Orthotics:

Corset treatment to correct spinal curvatures, especially in young people.

• Surgical Intervention:

Spinal fusion surgery may be applied for severe curvatures.

Back Bruises and Soft Tissue Injuries Treatment Methods:

• RICE Protocol:

Rest, ice application, compression and keeping the area elevated.

• Massage Therapy:

Helps repair tissue damage.

• Physiotherapy:

Exercises that increase range of motion.

Chronic Pain and Spinal Disorders (e.g. Fibromyalgia) Treatment Methods:

• Exercise and Yoga:

To strengthen the musculoskeletal system and reduce pain.

• Pain Management:

Medications for nerve pain, PRP (Platelet Rich Plasma) injections or acupuncture.

• Psychological Support:

To reduce stress and depression in chronic pain management.

9. Tennis Elbow:

• Rest:

Rest is necessary for tendon tears to heal. It is important to stop activities and give them time.

• Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs):

Pain and inflammation can be reduced by using medications containing ibuprofen and naproxen.

• Wrist Support:

A specialist doctor may recommend that you wear a removable tennis elbow band called a counterforce support, which relieves tension in the tendons and muscles.

• Physical Therapy:

The exercises you will do with the physical therapy method strengthen your forearm muscles and grip. In addition, you can reduce pain by using tennis elbow massage and muscle stimulating techniques.

• Steroid Injections:

Joint pain and inflammation can be temporarily relieved with injected corticosteroids.

• Platelet (PRP) Treatment:

Platelets are small cell fragments in the blood that support healing. In PRP treatment, a small amount of blood is taken. And the platelets are separated from other blood cells and then injected into the painful area.

• Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy:

With this treatment method, sound waves break down scar tissue and regulate blood flow to the painful area.

• Surgical Intervention:

Surgical intervention, which is rarely preferred, can be performed in cases where other treatments are inadequate. In addition, you can relieve pain by using tennis elbow exercises. You can contribute to the healing process.

10. Sprains:

First Aid: R.I.C.E Protocol:

• Rest:

Avoid activities that strain the injured joint.

Use a splint, bandage or crutch if necessary to limit movement.

• Ice Application:

Apply an ice pack to the injured area to reduce swelling and pain.

Apply 3-4 times a day for 15-20 minutes each time.

Ice should not be applied directly to the skin. A thin towel should be used.

• Compression:

Wrap the area tightly with an elastic bandage. But be careful not to block circulation.

Controls swelling and stabilizes the joint.

• Elevation:

Raise the injured area above the level of the heart.

This reduces blood flow and prevents swelling.

Pain and Inflammation Management:

• Painkillers:

Medications such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can reduce pain and inflammation.

• Topical Creams:

Anti-inflammatory gels and creams can be used.

Movement and Rehabilitation:

• Physiotherapy:

Special exercises are applied to increase the range of motion of the joint and restore strength and flexibility.

In mild sprains, simple exercises can be started within a few days.

Exercises:

• Light Stretching Exercises:

Increases the range of motion of the sprained joint.

• Strengthening Exercises:

Re-strengthens the muscles and ligaments.

Stabilization and Protection:

• Use of Splints or Bandages:

In moderate and severe sprains, splints, bandages or support devices can be used to stabilize the joint and promote healing.

Additional Methods for Severe Sprains:

• Medical Intervention:

In cases where the ligaments are completely torn, surgery may be required.

Torn ligaments are repaired by stitching or reconstruction.

• Corticosteroid Injections:

Can be used to control severe inflammation and pain.

• PRP (Platelet Rich Plasma) Treatment:

Can be applied to accelerate the healing of ligaments.