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Sports Injuries

Back Clinic Sports Injuries Chiropractic and Physical Therapy Team. Athletes from all sports can benefit from chiropractic treatment. Adjustments can help treat injuries from high-impact sports i.e. wrestling, football, and hockey. Athletes that get routine adjustments may notice improved athletic performance, improved range of motion along with flexibility, and increased blood flow. Because spinal adjustments will reduce the irritation of the nerve roots between the vertebrae, the healing time from minor injuries can be shortened, which improves performance. Both high-impact and low-impact athletes can benefit from routine spinal adjustments.

For high-impact athletes, it increases performance and flexibility and lowers the risk for injury for low-impact athletes i.e. tennis players, bowlers, and golfers. Chiropractic is a natural way to treat and prevent different injuries and conditions that impact athletes. According to Dr. Jimenez, excessive training or improper gear, among other factors, are common causes of injury. Dr. Jimenez summarizes the various causes and effects of sports injuries on the athlete as well as explaining the types of treatments and rehabilitation methods that can help improve an athlete’s condition. For more information, please feel free to contact us at (915) 850-0900 or text to call Dr. Jimenez personally at (915) 540-8444.


Achilles Tendon Tears: Risk Factors Explained

Achilles Tendon Tears: Risk Factors Explained

Individuals who participate in physical and sports activities could suffer an Achilles tendon tear. Can understanding the symptoms and risks help in treatment and return the individual back to their sports activity sooner?

Achilles Tendon Tears: Risk Factors Explained

Achilles Tendon

This is a common injury that occurs when the tendon attaching the calf muscle to the heel gets torn.

About the Tendon

  • The Achilles tendon is the largest tendon in the body.
  • In sports and physical activities, intense explosive movements like running, sprinting, quickly shifting positions, and jumping are exerted on the Achilles.
  • Males are more likely to tear their Achilles and sustain a tendon rupture. (G. Thevendran et al., 2013)
  • The injury often occurs without any contact or collision but rather the running, starting, stopping, and pulling actions placed on the feet.
  • Certain antibiotics and cortisone shots can increase the likelihood of Achilles tear injuries.
  • A specific antibiotic, fluoroquinolones, has been shown to increase the risk of Achilles tendon problems.
  • Cortisone shots are also associated with Achilles tears, which is why many healthcare providers don’t recommend cortisone for Achilles tendonitis. (Anne L. Stephenson et al., 2013)

Symptoms

  • A tendon tear or rupture causes sudden pain behind the ankle.
  • Individuals may hear a pop or a snap and often report the feeling as being kicked in the calf or heel.
  • Individuals have difficulty pointing their toes downward.
  • Individuals may have swelling and bruising around the tendon.
  • A healthcare provider will examine the ankle for continuity of the tendon.
  • Squeezing the calf muscle is supposed to cause the foot to point downwards, but in individuals with a tear, the foot will not move, resulting in positive results on the Thompson test.
  • A defect in the tendon can usually be felt after a tear.
  • X-rays may be used to rule out other conditions, including ankle fracture or ankle arthritis.

Risk Factors

  • Achilles tendon ruptures are most seen in men around 30 or 40. (David Pedowitz, Greg Kirwan. 2013)
  • Many individuals have symptoms of tendonitis prior to sustaining a tear.
  • The majority of individuals have no history of previous Achilles tendon problems.
  • The majority of Achilles tendon tears are associated with ball sports. (Youichi Yasui et al., 2017)

Other risk factors include:

  • Gout
  • Cortisone injections into the Achilles tendon
  • Fluoroquinolone antibiotic use

Fluoroquinolone antibiotics are commonly used for the treatment of respiratory infections, urinary tract infections, and bacterial infections. These antibiotics are associated with Achilles tendon rupture, but further research is needed to determine how they affect the Achilles tendon. Individuals taking these medications are advised to consider an alternative medication if Achilles tendon problems begin to develop. (Anne L. Stephenson et al., 2013)

Treatment

Depending on the severity of the injury, treatment can consist of non-surgical techniques or surgery.

  • The benefit of surgery is there is usually less immobilization.
  • Individuals can often return to sports activities sooner, and there is less chance of re-rupturing the tendon.
  • Non-surgical treatment avoids the potential surgical risks, and the long-term functional results are similar. (David Pedowitz, Greg Kirwan. 2013)

Treating Ankle Sprains


References

Thevendran, G., Sarraf, K. M., Patel, N. K., Sadri, A., & Rosenfeld, P. (2013). The ruptured Achilles tendon: a current overview from biology of rupture to treatment. Musculoskeletal surgery, 97(1), 9–20. doi.org/10.1007/s12306-013-0251-6

Stephenson, A. L., Wu, W., Cortes, D., & Rochon, P. A. (2013). Tendon Injury and Fluoroquinolone Use: A Systematic Review. Drug safety, 36(9), 709–721. doi.org/10.1007/s40264-013-0089-8

Pedowitz, D., & Kirwan, G. (2013). Achilles tendon ruptures. Current reviews in musculoskeletal medicine, 6(4), 285–293. doi.org/10.1007/s12178-013-9185-8

Yasui, Y., Tonogai, I., Rosenbaum, A. J., Shimozono, Y., Kawano, H., & Kennedy, J. G. (2017). The Risk of Achilles Tendon Rupture in the Patients with Achilles Tendinopathy: Healthcare Database Analysis in the United States. BioMed research international, 2017, 7021862. doi.org/10.1155/2017/7021862

Cold Therapy with Ice Tape for Musculoskeletal Injuries

Cold Therapy with Ice Tape for Musculoskeletal Injuries

For individuals into sports, fitness enthusiasts, and those that engage in physical activities, musculoskeletal injuries are common. Can using ice tape help during the initial or acute phase of injury decrease inflammation and swelling to expedite recovery and return to activities sooner?

Cold Therapy with Ice Tape for Musculoskeletal InjuriesIce Tape

After a musculoskeletal injury, individuals are recommended to follow the R.I.C.E. method to help reduce swelling and inflammation.  R.I.C.E. is the acronym for Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation. (Michigan Medicine. University of Michigan. 2023) The cold helps to decrease pain, lower tissue temperature, and decrease swelling around the site of the injury. By controlling the inflammation with ice and compression early after injury, individuals can maintain the appropriate range of motion and mobility around the injured body part. (Jon E. Block. 2010) There are different ways to apply ice to an injury.

  • Store-bought ice bags and cold packs.
  • Soaking the injured body part in a cold whirlpool or tub.
  • Making reusable ice packs.
  • A compression bandage can be used together with the ice.

Ice Tape is a compression bandage that provides cold therapy all at once. After an injury, applying it can help decrease the pain and swelling during the acute inflammatory phase of healing. (Matthew J. Kraeutler et al., 2015)

How The Tape Works

The tape is a flexible bandage that is infused with therapeutic cooling gel. When applied to an injured body part and exposed to air, the gel activates, generating a cold sensation around the area. The therapeutic medicinal effect can last five to six hours. Combined with a flexible bandage, it provides ice therapy and compression. The ice tape can be used straight out of the package but can also be stored in the refrigerator to increase the cold effect. Depending on the maker’s instructions, the tape should not be stored in the freezer as this can make it too hard to wrap around the injured area.

Advantages

The benefits include the following:

Easy to Use

  • The product is easy to use.
  • Take out the tape, and start wrapping it around the injured body part.

Fasteners Not Required

  • The wrap sticks to itself, so the tape stays in place without using clips or fasteners.

Easy to Cut

  • The standard roll is 48 inches long by 2 inches wide.
  • Most injuries require enough to wrap around the injured area.
  • Scissors cut the exact amount needed, and store the rest in the resealable bag.

Reusable

  • After 15 to 20 minutes of application, the product can be easily removed, rolled up, stored in the bag, and used again.
  • The tape can be used multiple times.
  • The tape begins to lose its cooling quality after several uses.

Portable

  • The tape does not need to be placed in a cooler when traveling.
  • It is easily portable and perfect for a quick ice and compression application immediately after an injury.
  • It can decrease pain and inflammation and kept at the workplace.

Disadvantages

A few disadvantages include the following:

Chemical Odor

  • The gel on the flexible wrap can have a medicine odor.
  • It is not quite as powerful smelling as pain creams, but the chemical odor could bother some individuals.

Might Not Be Cold Enough

  • The tape works for immediate pain relief and inflammation, but it may not get cold enough for the user when applied right from the package at room temperature.
  • However, it can be placed in a refrigerator to increase the coldness and may provide a more therapeutic cooling effect, especially for those dealing with tendinitis or bursitis.

Stickiness Could Be Distracting

  • The tape could be a bit sticky for some.
  • This sticky factor can be a minor annoyance.
  • However, it just feels sticky when being applied.
  • A couple of flecks of the gel may get left behind when removed.
  • The ice tape can also stick to clothing.

For individuals looking for a quick, on-the-go cooling therapy for injured or aching body parts, ice tape may be an option. It could be good to have on hand to provide cooling compression if a minor injury occurs while participating in athletics or physical activities and relief for overuse or repetitive strain injuries.


Treating Ankle Sprains


References

Michigan Medicine. University of Michigan. Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation (RICE).

Block J. E. (2010). Cold and compression in the management of musculoskeletal injuries and orthopedic operative procedures: a narrative review. Open access journal of sports medicine, 1, 105–113. doi.org/10.2147/oajsm.s11102

Kraeutler, M. J., Reynolds, K. A., Long, C., & McCarty, E. C. (2015). Compressive cryotherapy versus ice-a prospective, randomized study on postoperative pain in patients undergoing arthroscopic rotator cuff repair or subacromial decompression. Journal of shoulder and elbow surgery, 24(6), 854–859. doi.org/10.1016/j.jse.2015.02.004

Understand Turf Toe Injury: Symptoms, Treatment, and Recovery

Understand Turf Toe Injury: Symptoms, Treatment, and Recovery

For individuals experiencing a turf toe injury, can knowing the symptoms help athletes and non-athletes with treatment, recovery time, and returning to activities?

Understand Turf Toe Injury: Symptoms, Treatment, and Recovery

Turf Toe Injury

A turf toe injury affects the soft tissue ligaments and tendons at the base of the big toe under the foot. This condition usually occurs when the toe is hyperextended/forced upward, such as when the ball of the foot is on the ground and the heel is lifted. (American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. 2021) The injury is common among athletes who play sports on artificial turf, which is how the injury got its name. However, it can also affect non-athletes, like individuals working on their feet all day.

  • Recovery time after turf toe injury depends on the severity and the type of activities the individual plans to return to.
  • Returning to high-level sports activities after a severe injury can take six months.
  • These injuries vary in severity but usually improve with conservative treatment. In severe cases, surgery could be required.
  • Pain is the primary issue that stops physical activities after a grade 1 injury, while grades 2 and 3 can take weeks to months to heal completely.

Meaning

A turf toe injury refers to a metatarsophalangeal joint strain. This joint comprises ligaments that connect the bone on the sole of the foot, below the big toe/proximal phalanx, to the bones that connect the toes to the larger bones in the feet/metatarsals. The injury is usually caused by hyperextension that often results from a pushing-off motion, like running or jumping.

Grading

Turf toe injuries can range from mild to severe and are graded as follows: (American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. 2021)

  • Grade 1 – The soft tissue is stretched, causing pain and swelling.
  • Grade 2 – The soft tissue is partially torn. Pain is more pronounced, with significant swelling and bruising, and it is difficult to move the toe.
  • Grade 3 – Soft tissue is completely torn, and symptoms are severe.

Is This What’s Causing My Foot Pain?

Turf toe can be an:

  • Overuse injury – caused by repeating the same motion repeatedly for an extended period, that causes symptoms to worsen.
  • Acute injury – that occurs suddenly, causing immediate pain.

Symptoms can include the following: (Mass General Brigham. 2023)

  • Limited range-of-motion.
  • Tenderness in the big toe and surrounding area.
  • Swelling.
  • Pain in the big toe and surrounding area.
  • Bruising.
  • Loose joints can indicate there is a dislocation.

Diagnosis

If experiencing turf toe symptoms, see a healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis so they can develop a personalized treatment plan. They will perform a physical exam to assess pain, swelling, and range of motion. (American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. 2021) If the healthcare provider suspects tissue damage, they may recommend imaging with X-rays and (MRI) to grade the injury and determine the proper course of action.

Treatment

A healthcare provider will determine the best treatment based on the severity of the injury. All turf toe injuries can benefit from the RICE protocol: (American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons. Foot Health Facts. 2023)

  1. Rest – Avoid activities that worsen symptoms. This can include using an assistive device like a walking boot or crutches to reduce pressure.
  2. Ice – Apply ice for 20 minutes, then wait 40 minutes before reapplying.
  3. Compression – Wrap the toe and foot with an elastic bandage to support and reduce swelling.
  4. Elevation – Prop the foot above the level of the heart to help decrease swelling.

Grade 1

Grade 1 turf toe is classified by stretched soft tissue, pain, and swelling. Treatments can include: (Ali-Asgar Najefi et al., 2018)

  • Taping to support the toe.
  • Wearing shoes with a rigid sole.
  • Orthotic support, like a turf toe plate.

Grades 2 and 3

Grades 2 and 3 come with partial or complete tissue tearing, severe pain, and swelling. Treatments for more severe turf toe can include: (Ali-Asgar Najefi et al., 2018)

  • Limited weight bearing
  • Using assistive devices like crutches, a walking boot, or a cast.

Other Treatment

  • Less than 2% of these injuries require surgery. It is usually recommended if there is instability in the joint or when conservative treatments are unsuccessful. (Ali-Asgar Najefi et al., 2018) (Zachariah W. Pinter et al., 2020)
  • Physical therapy is beneficial for decreasing pain and improving the range of motion and strength after injury. (American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. 2021)
  • Physical therapy also includes proprioception and agility training exercises, orthotics, and wearing recommended shoes for specific physical activities. (Lisa Chinn, Jay Hertel. 2010)
  • A physical therapist can also help ensure that the individual does not return to physical activities before the injury is fully healed and prevent the risk of re-injury.

Recovery Time

Recovery depends on injury severity. (Ali-Asgar Najefi et al., 2018)

  • Grade 1 – Subjective as it varies depending on the individual’s pain tolerance.
  • Grade 2 – Four to six weeks of immobilization.
  • Grade 3 – Eight weeks minimum of immobilization.
  • It can take up to six months to return to normal function.

Returning To Normal Activities

After a grade 1 turf toe injury, individuals can return to normal activities once the pain is under control. Grades 2 and 3 take longer to heal. Returning to sports activities after a grade 2 injury can take around two or three months, while grade 3 injuries and cases that require surgery can take up to six months. (Ali-Asgar Najefi et al., 2018)


Sports Chiropractic Treatment


References

American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. (2021). Turf toe.

Mass General Brigham. (2023). Turf toe.

American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons. Foot Health Facts. (2023). RICE protocol.

Najefi, A. A., Jeyaseelan, L., & Welck, M. (2018). Turf toe: A clinical update. EFORT open reviews, 3(9), 501–506. doi.org/10.1302/2058-5241.3.180012

Pinter, Z. W., Farnell, C. G., Huntley, S., Patel, H. A., Peng, J., McMurtrie, J., Ray, J. L., Naranje, S., & Shah, A. B. (2020). Outcomes of Chronic Turf Toe Repair in Non-athlete Population: A Retrospective Study. Indian journal of orthopaedics, 54(1), 43–48. doi.org/10.1007/s43465-019-00010-8

Chinn, L., & Hertel, J. (2010). Rehabilitation of ankle and foot injuries in athletes. Clinics in sports medicine, 29(1), 157–167. doi.org/10.1016/j.csm.2009.09.006

Comprehensive Guide to Recovery from Osteitis Pubis Injury

Comprehensive Guide to Recovery from Osteitis Pubis Injury

Athletes and physically active individuals who participate in activities, exercises, and sports that involve kicking, pivoting, and/or shifting directions can develop pelvis overuse injury of the pubic symphysis/joint at the front of the pelvis known as osteitis pubis. Can recognizing the symptoms and causes help in treatment and prevention?

Comprehensive Guide to Recovery from Osteitis Pubis Injury

Osteitis Pubis Injury

Osteitis pubis is the inflammation of the joint that connects the pelvic bones, called the pelvic symphysis, and the structures around it. The pubic symphysis is a joint in front of and below the bladder. It holds the two sides of the pelvis together in the front. The pubis symphysis has very little motion, but when abnormal or continued stress is placed on the joint, groin and pelvic pain can present. An osteitis pubis injury is a common overuse injury in physically active individuals and athletes but can also occur as the result of physical trauma, pregnancy, and/or childbirth.

Symptoms

The most common symptom is pain over the front of the pelvis. The pain is most often felt in the center, but one side may be more painful than the other. The pain typically radiates/spreads outward. Other signs and symptoms include: (Patrick Gomella, Patrick Mufarrij. 2017)

  • Lower abdominal pain in the center of the pelvis
  • Limping
  • Hip and/or leg weakness
  • Difficulty climbing stairs
  • Pain when walking, running, and/or shifting directions
  • Clicking or popping sounds with movement or when shifting directions
  • Pain when lying down on the side
  • Pain when sneezing or coughing

Osteitis pubis can be confused with other injuries, including a groin strain/groin pull, a direct inguinal hernia, ilioinguinal neuralgia, or a pelvic stress fracture.

Causes

An osteitis pubis injury usually occurs when the symphysis joint is exposed to excessive, continued, directional stress and overuse of the hip and leg muscles. Causes include: (Patrick Gomella, Patrick Mufarrij. 2017)

  • Sports activities
  • Exercising
  • Pregnancy and childbirth
  • Pelvic injury like a severe fall

Diagnosis

The injury is diagnosed based on a physical examination and imaging tests. Other tests may be used to rule out other possible causes.

  • The physical exam will involve manipulation of the hip to place tension on the rectus abdominis trunk muscle and adductor thigh muscle groups.
  • Pain during the manipulation is a common sign of the condition.
  • Individuals may be asked to walk to look for irregularities in gait patterns or to see if symptoms occur with certain movements.
  1. X-rays will typically reveal joint irregularities as well as sclerosis/thickening of the pubic symphysis.
  2. Magnetic resonance imaging – MRI may reveal joint and surrounding bone inflammation.
  3. Some cases will show no signs of injury on an X-ray or MRI.

Treatment

Effective treatment can take several months or longer. Because inflammation is the underlying cause of symptoms, the treatment will often involve: (Tricia Beatty. 2012)

Rest

  • Allows the acute inflammation to subside.
  • During recovery, sleeping flat on the back may be recommended to reduce pain.

Ice and Heat Applications

  • Ice packs help reduce inflammation.
  • The heat helps ease pain after the initial swelling has gone down.

Physical Therapy

Anti-inflammatory Medication

  • Over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications – NSAIDs like ibuprofen and naproxen can reduce pain and inflammation.

Assistive Walking Devices

  • If the symptoms are severe, crutches or a cane may be recommended to reduce stress on the pelvis.

Cortisone

  • There have been attempts to treat the condition with cortisone injections, but the evidence supporting its use is limited and needs further research. (Alessio Giai Via, et al., 2019)

Prognosis

Once diagnosed, the prognosis for full recovery is optimal but can take time. It can take some individuals six months or more to return to pre-injury level of function, but most return by around three months. If conservative treatment fails to provide relief after six months, surgery could be recommended. (Michael Dirkx, Christopher Vitale. 2023)


Sports Injuries Rehabilitation


References

Gomella, P., & Mufarrij, P. (2017). Osteitis pubis: A rare cause of suprapubic pain. Reviews in urology, 19(3), 156–163. doi.org/10.3909/riu0767

Beatty T. (2012). Osteitis pubis in athletes. Current sports medicine reports, 11(2), 96–98. doi.org/10.1249/JSR.0b013e318249c32b

Via, A. G., Frizziero, A., Finotti, P., Oliva, F., Randelli, F., & Maffulli, N. (2018). Management of osteitis pubis in athletes: rehabilitation and return to training – a review of the most recent literature. Open access journal of sports medicine, 10, 1–10. doi.org/10.2147/OAJSM.S155077

Dirkx M, Vitale C. Osteitis Pubis. [Updated 2022 Dec 11]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan-. Available from: www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK556168/

Q/Quadriceps Angle Knee Injuries In Women Athletes

Q/Quadriceps Angle Knee Injuries In Women Athletes

The Q or quadriceps angle is a measurement of pelvic width that is believed to contribute to the risk of sports injuries in women athletes. Can non-surgical therapies and exercises help rehabilitate injuries?

Q/Quadriceps Angle Knee Injuries In Women Athletes

Quadriceps Q – Angle Injuries

The Q angle is the angle where the femur/upper leg bone meets the tibia/lower leg bone. It is measured by two intersecting lines:

  • One from the center of the patella/kneecap to the anterior superior iliac spine of the pelvis.
  • The other is from the patella to the tibial tubercle.
  • On average the angle is three degrees higher in women than men.
  • Average 17 degrees for women and 14 degrees for men. (Ramada R Khasawneh, et al., 2019)
  • Sports medicine experts have linked a wider pelvis to a larger Q-angle. (Ramada R Khasawneh, et al., 2019)

Women have biomechanical differences that include a wider pelvis, making it easier to give birth. However, this difference can contribute to knee injuries when playing sports, as an increased Q angle generates more stress on the knee joint, as well as leading to increased foot pronation.

Injuries

Various factors can increase the risk of injury, but a wider Q angle has been linked to the following conditions.

Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome

  • An increased Q angle can cause the quadriceps to pull on the kneecap, shifting it out of place and causing dysfunctional patellar tracking.
  • With time, this can cause knee pain (under and around the kneecap), and muscle imbalance.
  • Foot orthotics and arch supports could be recommended.
  • Some researchers have found a link, while others have not found the same association. (Wolf Petersen, et al., 2014)

Chondromalacia of the Knee

  • This is the wearing down of the cartilage on the underside of the kneecap.
  • This leads to degeneration of the articular surfaces of the knee. (Enrico Vaienti, et al., 2017)
  • The common symptom is pain under and around the kneecap.

ACL Injuries

  • Women have higher rates of ACL injuries than men. (Yasuhiro Mitani. 2017)
  • An increased Q angle can be a factor that increases stress and causes the knee to lose its stability.
  • However, this remains controversial, as some studies have found no association between the Q angle and knee injuries.

Chiropractic Treatment

Strengthening Exercises

  • ACL injury prevention programs designed for women have resulted in reduced injuries. (Trent Nessler, et al., 2017)
  • The vastus medialis obliquus or VMO is a teardrop-shaped muscle that helps move the knee joint and stabilize the kneecap.
  • Strengthening the muscle can increase the stability of the knee joint.
  • Strengthening may require a specific focus on muscle contraction timing.
  • Closed-chain exercises like wall squats are recommended.
  • Glute strengthening will improve stability.

Stretching Exercises

  • Stretching tight muscles will help relax the injured area, increase circulation, and restore range of motion and function.
  • Muscles commonly found to be tight include the quadriceps, hamstrings, iliotibial band, and gastrocnemius.

Foot Orthotics

  • Custom-made, flexible orthotics decrease the Q angle and reduce pronation, relieving the added stress on the knee.
  • A custom orthotic ensures that the foot and leg dynamics are accounted for and corrected.
  • Motion-control shoes can also help correct overpronation.

Knee Rehabilitation


References

Khasawneh, R. R., Allouh, M. Z., & Abu-El-Rub, E. (2019). Measurement of the quadriceps (Q) angle with respect to various body parameters in young Arab population. PloS one, 14(6), e0218387. doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0218387

Petersen, W., Ellermann, A., Gösele-Koppenburg, A., Best, R., Rembitzki, I. V., Brüggemann, G. P., & Liebau, C. (2014). Patellofemoral pain syndrome. Knee surgery, sports traumatology, arthroscopy: Official journal of the ESSKA, 22(10), 2264–2274. doi.org/10.1007/s00167-013-2759-6

Vaienti, E., Scita, G., Ceccarelli, F., & Pogliacomi, F. (2017). Understanding the human knee and its relationship to total knee replacement. Acta bio-medica : Atenei Parmensis, 88(2S), 6–16. doi.org/10.23750/abm.v88i2-S.6507

Mitani Y. (2017). Gender-related differences in lower limb alignment, range of joint motion, and the incidence of sports injuries in Japanese university athletes. Journal of Physical Therapy Science, 29(1), 12–15. doi.org/10.1589/jpts.29.12

Nessler, T., Denney, L., & Sampley, J. (2017). ACL Injury Prevention: What Does Research Tell Us? Current reviews in musculoskeletal medicine, 10(3), 281–288. doi.org/10.1007/s12178-017-9416-5

Finding A Sports Injury Specialist: El Paso Back Clinic

Finding A Sports Injury Specialist: El Paso Back Clinic

Sports activities will result in aches, pains, and injuries that need to be examined by a doctor or specialist for proper diagnosis and treatment. Finding the right sports injury specialist can be one of the most difficult parts of dealing with an injury. The following may help when deciding if a sports chiropractic specialist can help.

Finding A Sports Injury Specialist: EP Chiropractic Team

Sports Injury Specialist

Sports medicine is the study and practice of medical principles related to the science of sports:

  • Injury prevention
  • Injury diagnosis and treatment
  • Nutrition
  • Psychology

Sports medicine focuses on the medical and therapeutic aspects of sports physical activity. These individuals can be physicians, surgeons, chiropractors, physical therapists, or providers who regularly work with athletes. Athletes often prefer providers with athletic treatment experience.

Doctor To See First for a Sports Injury

  • Individuals that belong to an HMO or PPO may find that their primary care physician is the first doctor to see for injury.
  • A family doctor may not be a sports medicine specialist but may have the expertise to deal with the injury.
  • Minor musculoskeletal injuries like acute sprains and strains respond well to immediate standard treatments like rest, ice, compression, and elevation.
  • Individuals with complicated overuse or training injuries, chronic conditions such as tendonitis, or who require surgery will be referred to a specialist.

Family Doctor Treatment

  • Nearly all family practice physicians can diagnose and treat various sports-related injuries.
  • They will refer the individual to a doctor with additional training in sports medicine or an orthopedic sports surgeon if necessary.

When to See a Surgeon

  • If the injury will likely require surgery and the insurance allows self-referral, individuals may choose to see an orthopedic surgeon first.
  • Primary care or sports medicine physicians can treat most sports injuries and fractures.
  • A  primary care doctor can recommend an orthopedic surgeon if surgery is required.

Specialists to Consider

After diagnosis, other providers may be involved in caring for sports-related injuries.

Athletic Trainers

  • Certified athletic trainers are trained professionals that work exclusively with athletes.
  • Many work with high school and college sports teams, but also work in health clubs and medical clinics.
  • A certified trainer can help decide which injuries require a specialist and can make the referral.

Physical Therapists

  • Physical therapists treat injuries based on a doctor’s clinical diagnosis.
  • Physical therapy integrates training and rehabilitation principles into recovery.
  • Therapists often subspecialize in sports medicine and orthopedic injuries.

Chiropractors

  • Chiropractors perform treatments that relieve pressure on various areas of the body.
  • Many athletes prefer chiropractic care first because the treatment is done without prescription medications or surgery.
  • Chiropractors often work in conjunction with massage therapists to treat various musculoskeletal conditions.

Podiatrists

  • A podiatrist is recommended for problems with the foot.
  • These clinicians have several years of residency, exclusively studying foot and ankle musculoskeletal problems.
  • Podiatrists who focus on sports medicine injuries often work with runners and athletes prone to foot and ankle injuries.
  • They also perform biomechanical analysis, assess gait, and make customized foot orthotics.

Holistic Practitioners

Holistic healthcare practitioners use non-invasive, non-pharmaceutical techniques and therapies that include:

  • Acupuncture
  • Medical herbalism
  • Homeopathy
  • Other non-traditional methods to treat conditions and illnesses.
  • Some may have specific experience in treating sports-related injuries.

Finding the Right Specialist

It is important to find a doctor who can design a treatment plan to heal and rehabilitate the injury properly and get the athlete back to their sport quickly and safely. Medicine is science and art, and injury treatment should be personalized to specific goals of healing and performance. When selecting a healthcare provider to treat injuries or provide advice, personal recommendations from trusted sources are recommended to screen providers. As well as asking other athletes, local teams, gyms, athletic clubs, and healthcare organizations can direct individuals in the right direction. If you can’t find a confident recommendation, look for a certified sports medicine physician online or call the clinic. When calling the office, questions to think about include:

  • What is your treatment specialty?
  • What experience do you have treating athletes?
  • What special training do you have in sports injury care?
  • What degrees and certifications do you have?

How I Tore My ACL


References

Bowyer, B L et al. “Sports medicine. 2. Upper extremity injuries.” Archives of physical medicine and Rehabilitation vol. 74,5-S (1993): S433-7.

Chang, Thomas J. “Sports Medicine.” Clinics in podiatric medicine and surgery vol. 40,1 (2023): xiii-xiv. doi:10.1016/j.cpm.2022.10.001

Ellen, M I, and J Smith. “Musculoskeletal rehabilitation and sports medicine. 2. Shoulder and upper extremity injuries.” Archives of physical medicine and Rehabilitation vol. 80,5 Suppl 1 (1999): S50-8. doi:10.1016/s0003-9993(99)90103-x

Haskell, William L et al. “Physical activity and public health: updated recommendation for adults from the American College of Sports Medicine and the American Heart Association.” Medicine and science in sports and exercise vol. 39,8 (2007): 1423-34. doi:10.1249/mss.0b013e3180616b27

Sherman, A L, and J L Young. “Musculoskeletal rehabilitation and sports medicine. 1. Head and spine injuries.” Archives of physical medicine and Rehabilitation vol. 80,5 Suppl 1 (1999): S40-9. doi:10.1016/s0003-9993(99)90102-8

Zwolski, Christin, et al. “Resistance Training in Youth: Laying the Foundation for Injury Prevention and Physical Literacy.” Sports Health vol. 9,5 (2017): 436-443. doi:10.1177/1941738117704153

Gymnastics Injuries: El Paso Back Clinic

Gymnastics Injuries: El Paso Back Clinic

Gymnastics is a demanding and challenging sport. Gymnasts train to be powerful and graceful. Today’s moves have become increasingly technical acrobatic moves with a much higher degree of risk and difficulty. All the stretching, bending, twisting, jumping, flipping, etc., increases the risk of neuromusculoskeletal injuries. Gymnastics injuries are inevitable. Bruises, cuts, and scrapes are common, as are overuse strains and sprains, but severe and traumatic injuries can occur. Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Team can treat and rehabilitate injuries and help to strengthen and prevent injuries. The therapy team will thoroughly evaluate the individual to determine the injury/s severity, identify any weaknesses or limitations, and develop a personalized plan for optimal recovery, stability, and strength.

Gymnastics Injuries: EP's Chiropractic Specialists

Gymnastic Injuries

One of the main reasons injuries are more prevalent is because today’s athletes start earlier, spend more time practicing, perform more complex skill sets, and have higher levels of competition. Gymnasts learn to perfect a skill and then train to make their bodies look elegant while executing the routine. These moves require precision, timing, and hours of practice.

Injury Types

Sports injuries are classified as:

  • Chronic Overuse injuries: These cumulative aches and pains occur over time.
  • They can be treated with chiropractic and physical therapy and prevented with targeted training and recovery.
  • Acute Traumatic injuries: These are typically accidents that happen suddenly without warning.
  • These require immediate first aid.

Most Common Injuries

Gymnasts are taught how to fall and land to lessen the impact on the spine, head, neck, knees, ankles, and wrists. 

Back

Bruises and Contusions

  • Tumbling, twisting, and flipping can result in various bruises and contusions.

Muscle Soreness

  • This is the sort of muscle soreness experienced 12 to 48 hours after a workout or competition.
  • Proper rest is necessary for the body to recover fully.

Overtraining Syndrome

Sprains and Strains

  • Sprains and strains.
  • The R.I.C.E. method is recommended.

Ankle Sprains

  • Ankle sprains are the most common.
  • When there is a stretching and tearing of ligaments surrounding the ankle joint.

Wrist Sprains

  • A sprained wrist happens when stretching or tearing the ligaments of the wrist.
  • Falling or landing hard on the hands during handsprings is a common cause.

Stress Fractures

  • Leg stress fractures result from overuse and repeated impact from tumbling and landings.

The most common include:

  • Shoulder instability.
  • Ankle sprains.
  • Achilles tendon strains or tears.
  • Gymnasts wrist.
  • Colles’ fracture.
  • Hand and Finger injuries.
  • Cartilage damage.
  • Knee discomfort and pain symptoms.
  • A.C.L. tears – anterior cruciate ligament.
  • Burners and stingers.
  • Low back discomfort and pain symptoms.
  • Herniated discs.
  • Spinal fractures.

Causes

  • Insufficient flexibility.
  • Decreased strength in the arms, legs, and core.
  • Balance issues.
  • Strength and/or flexibility imbalances – one side is stronger.

Chiropractic Care

Our therapists will start with an evaluation and a biomechanical assessment to identify all the factors contributing to the injury. This will consist of a thorough medical history to understand overall health status, training schedule, and the physical demands on the body. The chiropractor will develop a comprehensive program that includes manual and tool-assisted pain relief techniques, mobilization work, MET, core strengthening, targeted exercises, and injury prevention strategies.


Facet Syndrome Chiropractic Treatment


References

Armstrong, Ross, and Nicola Relph. “Screening Tools as a Predictor of Injury in Gymnastics: Systematic Literature Review.” Sports medicine – open vol. 7,1 73. 11 Oct. 2021, doi:10.1186/s40798-021-00361-3

Farì, Giacomo, et al. “Musculoskeletal Pain in Gymnasts: A Retrospective Analysis on a Cohort of Professional Athletes.” International journal of environmental research and public health vol. 18,10 5460. 20 May. 2021, doi:10.3390/ijerph18105460

Kreher, Jeffrey B, and Jennifer B Schwartz. “Overtraining syndrome: a practical guide.” Sports Health vol. 4,2 (2012): 128-38. doi:10.1177/1941738111434406

Meeusen, R, and J Borms. “Gymnastic injuries.” Sports medicine (Auckland, N.Z.) vol. 13,5 (1992): 337-56. doi:10.2165/00007256-199213050-00004

Sweeney, Emily A et al. “Returning to Sport After Gymnastics Injuries.” Current sports medicine reports vol. 17,11 (2018): 376-390. doi:10.1249/JSR.0000000000000533

Westermann, Robert W et al. “Evaluation of Men’s and Women’s Gymnastics Injuries: A 10-Year Observational Study.” Sports Health vol. 7,2 (2015): 161-5. doi:10.1177/1941738114559705