Get Back in the Game Safely This Spring with Help From Our Sports Medicine Specialists

In 2022, 3.6 million Americans visited the emergency room for sports injuries. The actual total is likely much higher if you count sports injuries that aren’t reported. 

Unfortunately, many people may rush their recovery in an attempt to get back to their sport. This can actually prolong your healing period. Untreated or undertreated sports injuries can lead to chronic conditions, including ankle instability and post-traumatic osteoarthritis. 

Our team of orthopaedic specialists provides assistance in this area. David Dickerson, MD, Shawn Denning, Jr., DNP, APN, and the Performance Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine team offer comprehensive sports medicine care in Shrewsbury and Toms River, New Jersey.

Read on to find out how we can help you get back in the game safely.

1. Get an accurate diagnosis

No more guessing if you’ve sprained your ankle. Many sports injuries share the same symptoms, so it can be challenging to know for sure what type of injury you have. 

Our team of sports medicine specialists is trained to assess and identify the source of your sports injury. Through a combination of physical examinations, imaging studies, and detailed discussions about your athletic history, they pinpoint the specific issue and create a targeted treatment plan.

2. Start a treatment plan that works

In sports medicine, one size doesn't fit all. Your treatment plan is uniquely crafted based on your injury, overall health, the sport you play, and your athletic goals. 

Whether you require physical therapy, medications, or orthopedic interventions, our team ensures your treatment plan safely gets you back in the game.

Our team recommends the proper treatments and crafts a timeline for your return to competition.  

3. Support your injury through lifestyle changes

Sometimes, you may need surgery to fully heal from a sports injury. Fortunately, our sports medicine providers are experts in guiding this process through the Prescribe Fit program. Prescribe Fit is a lifestyle program that can help you prepare for surgery and recover on a virtual platform. 

Our team collaborates with your dedicated Care Coach to develop rehabilitation programs that address your specific injury and gradually restore your strength, flexibility, and functionality. 

4. Try the exercises you need

Physical therapy is a significant part of sports injury rehabilitation. Structured exercises improve your range of motion, increase flexibility, and strengthen your muscles. 

In addition to these benefits, physical therapy exercises also help boost your blood circulation. When your blood circulation improves, it brings healing nutrients to the areas that need oxygen and other nutrients. 

5.  Prevent future injuries

Part of a safe return to the playing field is knowing how to reduce your risk of re-injury. Depending on your specific situation, this may include:

• Being more diligent with warming  up 
• Cross-training
• Physical therapy
• Losing weight (Prescribe Fit can help you reach this goal)
• Wearing orthotics 

If you’re dealing with a sports injury, you need treatment. Partner with us to help you spring back into your game. Call the location of your choice or book your appointment online.