5 Signs Your Ankle Sprain Needs Medical Attention
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Fall Sports Injuries: When to See an Orthopedic Specialist
Autumn sports activity means improved health for many, but it also creates a risky time with plenty of opportunity for sports injuries. If you or someone you know suffers a sports injury, how do you know when to seek medical attention? And, at what point do you need to get an orthopedic specialist involved?
Highly skilled orthopedic and sports medicine specialist Dr. Michael Blackwell, who practices at the Center for Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine, can help you evaluate sports injuries of all kinds. With locations in Tomball, Kingwood, and Conroe, Texas, Dr. Blackwell recommends the next steps you need to take after a sports injury to recover fully.
When it comes to sports injuries, don’t take the risk of healing incorrectly or insufficiently. Without the right care, you may not be able to continue to participate in your sport. See an orthopedic specialist as soon as possible to secure your future health and strength.
How orthopedic care helps with sports injuries
In his sports medicine practice, Dr. Blackwell focuses on healing sports injuries to optimize future performance. Dr. Blackwell treats:
- Sprains, strains, and soft tissue tears
- Open and closed bone fractures
- Joint dislocations, including the shoulder and knee
- Bruises and impact injuries
Dr. Blackwell understands how the musculoskeletal parts of your body work together. Whether you’re suffering from a damaged tendon, ligament, bone, or joint, you benefit from receiving prompt attention from an orthopedic specialist experienced in sports medicine.
When to see a doctor for a sports injury
When you train or compete in your sport, you put a lot of pressure on your body. Sports injuries occur frequently in these high-pressure environments. How do you know when you need to be seen by a doctor?
As a rule of thumb, it never hurts to get checked out by an experienced professional. You may think an injury is no big deal, only to experience a more severe fracture, joint instability, or soft tissue damage as a result of not getting the right treatment.
Athletes, especially, need the right care for injuries. When you’re planning on putting athlete-level pressure on your body after recovery, your body has to heal completely and correctly the first time around. Untreated sports injuries increase your risk of future reinjury and may result in you having to give up your sport prematurely.
Symptoms like pain, swelling, and visible bruising let you know that you have an injury that may need care. Watch out for fever, signs of infection, or broken bones protruding through the skin. These may be medical emergencies requiring immediate attention.
Your personalized sports injury recovery plan
Dr. Blackwell examines your injury and may additionally use imaging exams like X-rays to learn more about your physical condition and treatment needs. He discusses your treatment plan with you, ensuring that you understand every step of your upcoming recovery journey.
In addition to his knowledge and experience, Dr. Blackwell offers cutting-edge treatments and therapies to speed your healing and smooth your path. From conservative treatments like strapping, cryotherapy, or physical therapy to more intensive interventions like injections or surgery, Dr. Blackwell uses a personalized care plan tailored to you. The Center for Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine uses minimally invasive techniques and Mako Robotic-Arm Assisted Technology for any surgical procedures you may need.
Don’t let a fall sports injury sideline you for longer than it has to. Reach out to Dr. Blackwell at the Center for Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine right away after an injury occurs. Call to schedule an appointment, or book online now.
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