Injuries caused by athletic activity can creep up on even the most well-conditioned athlete. What may feel like a tender muscle or a sore joint might actually be the warning signs of a possible injury. Pay attention to the following signs and symptoms so you can seek treatment in a timely manner if you sustain an injury.
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Joint Pain
Any joint pain present in the knee, ankle, shoulder, elbow, or wrist is a red flag for a possible sports injury. Don’t shrug off joint pain, assuming it will eventually go away. Joints in the areas that were mentioned are highly mobile, making them more vulnerable to injury. If your joint pain extends beyond 48 hours without improving at all, consult with a medical professional.
Swelling
Just about every type of sports injury will result in swelling of some sort. If the swelling is severe, it will be visible. However, some swelling may not be as severe but will lead to a “full” feeling in the joint, even if the joint appears normal. If you notice swelling and it does not reduce, there is a possibility of injury and you should have a physician look at it.
Decreased Range of Motion
Range of motion can be decreased due to soft tissue damage around a joint, such as in a sprain or strain, or by the swelling within a joint caused by an injury. If you notice an area of your body has a significant difference in motion when compared to the opposite side, you should talk to a medical professional to determine the cause.
Tenderness
It can be difficult to determine if tenderness is normal muscle soreness caused by activity or if it is the result of a possible injury. If swelling is present or if tenderness persists without improving, it would be a good idea to have it checked out.
Weakness
If you are noticing weakness in a muscle or in a specific movement, it can be difficult to pinpoint the cause. There is a possibility that the weakness could be caused by an injury to the muscle or surrounding soft tissue. However, there is a possibility that the weakness could be due to nerve compression. If you notice weakness that is persistent and not improving, you should seek the attention of a physician.
Numbness and Tingling
The feeling of numbness and tingling is always a red flag for a possible sports injury. These sensations are commonly related to nerve compression. Consider the numbness and/or tingling as a warning sign that requires the attention of a medical professional.
If you experience any of the signs in this article, there is a possibility that a sports injury has been sustained, and you should seek appropriate care. Please call our office for the first available appointment. We’re here to help!
