An orthopedic surgeon is a medical doctor who specializes in the diagnosis, treatment, prevention, and rehabilitation of injuries and diseases of the musculoskeletal system. This system includes bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, muscles, and nerves. For athletes, injuries are a common concern. Orthopedic surgeons manage sports conditions, helping players return to their activities safely. Their expertise covers a wide range of issues, from acute trauma to chronic conditions resulting from athletic participation.
ACL Repairs
The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is a key ligament that helps stabilize the knee joint. It is frequently injured during sports that involve sudden stops or changes in direction, including soccer, basketball, and football. A torn ACL can cause significant pain, swelling, and instability in the knee. An orthopedic surgeon diagnoses the extent of the tear using physical examination and imaging studies, like an MRI.
For athletes who wish to return to high-level sports, surgical reconstruction is often the recommended treatment. During an ACL reconstruction, the surgeon uses knee arthroscopy techniques to remove the damaged ligament and replace it. The replacement piece of tendon comes from another part of the patient’s body or from a deceased donor, called a graft. The surgeon’s goal is to restore stability to the knee, allowing the patient to begin a structured rehabilitation program.
Fracture Care
Fractures, or broken bones, are another common injury in sports. These can range from simple, stable fractures to complex breaks that require surgical intervention. An orthopedic surgeon is trained to manage all types of fractures.
Non-surgical Treatments
Treatment depends on the location and severity of the break. For some fractures, non-surgical methods like casting or splinting may be sufficient to hold the bone in the correct position while it heals. Some common symptoms of bone breaks include:
- Swelling
- Numbness
- Bleeding
- Visible Injury or Deformity
- Severe Pain
Surgical Treatments
In cases where the bone is significantly displaced or unstable, surgery may be necessary. An orthopedic surgeon may perform a procedure called open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF), where the bone fragments are repositioned into their normal alignment. Open reduction surgery holds bones in place with screws, plates, rods, or pins. This internal hardware provides stability, allowing the bone to heal properly and the athlete to start physical therapy sooner.
Elbow Pain
Elbow pain in athletes often results from overuse, particularly in sports that involve repetitive throwing or swinging motions, like tennis, baseball, and golf. Conditions like tennis elbow involve inflammation of the tendons that attach to the elbow. An orthopedic surgeon can diagnose these conditions and typically begins with conservative treatments, like rest, physical therapy, and bracing. If pain persists despite non-surgical management, the surgeon may discuss other options. For some chronic tendon issues, surgical procedures can be performed to remove the damaged tissue and relieve tension on the tendon, promoting healing and reducing pain.
Rotator Cuff Injuries
The rotator cuff is a group of four muscles and their tendons that surround the shoulder joint, keeping the head of the upper arm bone in the shoulder socket. Injuries to the rotator cuff can occur from a sudden fall or from repetitive overhead activities. These injuries are common in sports like swimming, tennis, and baseball.
Rotator cuff injuries can range from inflammation (tendinitis) to partial or complete tears of the tendons. An orthopedic surgeon will evaluate the shoulder to determine the nature of the injury. Many rotator cuff problems can be effectively managed through physical therapy, activity modification, and the use of anti-inflammatory medications. For large or full-thickness tears, surgery may be recommended to repair the tendon and restore shoulder function.
Contact an Orthopedic Surgeon
Sports injuries can affect athletes at all levels. An orthopedic surgeon can diagnose musculoskeletal conditions and develop comprehensive treatment plans tailored to each patient’s needs. To safely return to physical activities, address your injuries with an orthopedic specialist. Schedule a visit with a provider today.
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