The Essentials of Sports Medicine: Understanding Common Conditions
Sports medicine is a specialized field that focuses on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of injuries related to sports and exercise. Whether amateur or professional, athletes often face a variety of conditions that can impact performance and overall health.
And if you’re looking for sports medicine resources for your athlete, we offer specialized assessments to help diagnose and manage injuries. Instantly book a consultation with a top sports medicine specialist based on your unique needs. Explore pages dedicated to:
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Keep reading to explore some of the most common conditions encountered in sports medicine and to find comprehensive overviews of sports medicine via OrthoInfo from the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons.
ACL Injuries
Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries are common in sports that involve sudden stops, jumps, or changes in direction, such as soccer, basketball, and football. An ACL injury can range from a mild sprain to a complete tear.
Symptoms
- A loud “pop” or a “popping” sensation in the knee
- Pain with swelling
- Loss of range of motion
- Feeling of instability or “giving way” with weight-bearing
- For a full list of symptoms, click here
Runner's Knee and Jumper's Knee
Patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS) is a common cause of knee pain, affecting both athletes and nonathletes. Often referred to as runner’s knee or jumper’s knee, PFPS causes discomfort in the front of the knee and around the kneecap, especially during activities that involve frequent bending. It is particularly common among young adults and females who participate in sports, but anyone can experience it due to overuse, improper alignment, or strain on the knee joint.
Symptoms
- Pain during activities that involve frequent knee bending, such as running, squatting, or climbing stairs
- Discomfort after sitting for long periods with bent knees (e.g., in a car, airplane, or theater)
- Pain triggered by changes in activity level, playing surface, or equipment
- Popping or crackling sounds in the knee when standing up or using stairs
- For a full list of symptoms, click here
Achilles Tendon Injuries
Achilles tendon injuries range from tendonitis to ruptures. These injuries are common in sports that involve running, jumping, and sudden changes in direction.
Symptoms
- Popping sound
- Severe pain and swelling near the heel, often making walking difficult
- Loss of function and inability to stand on the toes of the injured leg
- For a full list of symptoms, click here
Rotator Cuff Injuries
Rotator cuff injuries involve the muscles and tendons that stabilize the shoulder. These injuries are common in sports that require overhead movements, such as baseball and tennis.
Symptoms
- Pain at rest and at night, especially when lying on the affected shoulder
- Pain when lifting and lowering the arm or with specific movements
- Weakness when lifting or rotating the arm
- Crepitus, a crackling sensation, when moving the shoulder in certain positions
- For a full list of symptoms, click here
Hamstring Injuries
Hamstring injuries occur when the muscles at the back of the thigh are overstretched or torn. These injuries are common in sports that involve sprinting and sudden stops.
Symptoms
- Swelling within the first few hours after injury
- Bruising or discoloration on the back of the leg below the knee over the first few days
- Persistent weakness in the hamstring that can last for weeks
- For a full list of symptoms, click here
Understanding these common sports medicine conditions can help athletes recognize symptoms early and seek appropriate care. If you want to explore our specialties and take an assessment that is right for you, click here. Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a professional competitor, staying informed about sports injuries and their treatments is essential for maintaining peak performance and long-term health. With the right knowledge and access to top sports medicine specialists, you can take proactive steps to prevent injuries and stay in the game.
