What it is
Sports injuries are problems of the muscles, bones, joints, tendons and ligaments that happen during exercise, play or training. Some happen suddenly, such as a twist, fall or collision. Others build up slowly from repeated motion or overuse.
Terms people often come across include sprains (ligament injuries), strains (muscle or tendon injuries), tendinitis, stress reactions in bone, fractures, dislocations, meniscus and cartilage problems, and shoulder issues such as rotator cuff irritation. Concussions are also associated with sports, though they involve the brain and need prompt professional attention.
Where the pain is, how it started and what movements make it worse are details that clinicians often ask about. Because many injuries feel similar, only a licensed professional can say what is actually going on after an evaluation. This page cannot diagnose anything.
How it’s traditionally been approached
Traditionally, many minor sports injuries have been approached with a period of relative rest, activity changes and gradual return to movement. Methods such as ice, compression, elevation and over-the-counter options are commonly discussed in general health education, though what is appropriate varies by person and injury.
Physical therapy has long been a part of recovery for many musculoskeletal injuries, often focusing on movement, strength and flexibility. Bracing, splinting or casting are other approaches people may hear about, depending on the injury.
When an injury involves a significant tear, a displaced fracture or a problem that does not settle over time, surgery is sometimes discussed. Whether it is appropriate is a decision for a licensed clinician and the patient together, and getting a second opinion before major surgery is a common and reasonable step.
How the right orthopedic doctor may help
The right orthopedic doctor, often one with sports medicine training, may help by examining the injured area, asking how the injury happened and, if needed, ordering imaging such as X-rays or MRI. A visit generally includes a conversation about your sport, activity level and goals, followed by a physical exam.
Helpful questions to bring include: What do you think is causing my symptoms? What options are available, including non-surgical ones? What are the possible risks and benefits of each? What is a general range for recovery, knowing it varies from person to person? When would you want to see me again?
If you are asked to consider injections, especially biologic or so-called regenerative ones like PRP, stem cell, amniotic, umbilical or exosome products, ask about their FDA status. Many are not FDA-approved for orthopedic uses, and insurance often does not cover them. For young athletes, a pediatric orthopedic provider may be worth asking about, since growing bones have unique needs.
The whole-person view
Body, mind and stress affect one another. An injury can bring frustration, worry about losing fitness or fear of re-injury, and stress or poor sleep can in turn affect how the body feels and recovers. Many people find that caring for the whole person, not just the injured area, is part of feeling supported.
Some people explore body-based support such as Somatic Experiences to build awareness of how stress is held in the body, while others find talk therapy through Therapists.plus helpful for coping with the emotional side of being sidelined. These are optional complements to medical care, not replacements for it.
Somatic Experiences: embodiment and movement →Therapists.plus: mind body connection →
Keep in mind
- Only a licensed professional can evaluate an injury and decide what care is appropriate; nothing here is a diagnosis or treatment recommendation.
- Recovery experiences and timelines vary widely from person to person, and no outcome is guaranteed.
- For emergencies such as a visibly deformed limb, severe bleeding, loss of consciousness, or head injury with confusion or repeated vomiting, call 911.
- If an injury or being sidelined is leaving you feeling hopeless or in crisis, call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
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Frequently asked questions
What are the most common sports injuries?
Sprains, strains, tendinitis, fractures, knee ligament and meniscus injuries, shoulder problems and overuse injuries are among the ones people hear about most. Concussions are also commonly associated with sports. A licensed clinician is the only one who can tell you what is behind your symptoms.
How do I find an orthopedic doctor near me for a sports injury?
You can start by looking for orthopedic doctors or sports medicine providers in your area and checking their training, board certification and experience with your type of injury. Directories such as Providers.plus list licensed providers, and your insurance plan or primary care provider may also offer suggestions. It is reasonable to ask about their approach before you book.
When should I see a doctor for a sports injury?
Consider seeing a licensed professional if pain is severe, swelling is significant, you cannot put weight on a limb, a joint feels unstable, or symptoms do not improve over time. Call 911 for emergencies such as a visibly deformed limb or a head injury with confusion. When in doubt, ask a clinician.
Do all sports injuries need surgery?
No, many do not. Surgery is only one of several options clinicians may discuss, and whether it is appropriate depends on the injury and the person. If surgery is recommended, getting a second opinion is a common and sensible step.
What is the difference between a sprain and a strain?
A sprain involves ligaments, which connect bone to bone, while a strain involves muscles or tendons, which connect muscle to bone. They can feel similar, so an evaluation by a licensed professional helps sort out which one is involved.
Are PRP and stem cell injections approved for sports injuries?
Many biologic or regenerative injections, including PRP, stem cell, amniotic, umbilical and exosome products, are not FDA-approved for orthopedic uses, and insurance often does not cover them. Only a licensed clinician can decide what is appropriate after an evaluation, so ask a provider about the regulatory status and costs before moving forward.
Educational resource. Best Orthopedic Doctors shares general information and connects people with independent orthopedic doctors. It is not medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Talk with a licensed professional about your health.