Whether you're hitting the pickleball court or going for a run, sports injuries can happen when you least expect them. Recognizing the symptoms and seeking proper treatment can make all the difference in recovery. This guide breaks down common injuries, their symptoms, and effective treatment options to help you stay active and pain-free.
What is tennis elbow?
Tennis elbow typically occurs when repetitive motions — like those in tennis and pickleball — strain muscles in the forearm to the point of creating inflammation, or in some cases, tiny tears in the tendons.
Tennis elbow symptoms:
- Pain near the outside of the elbow, especially when extending the wrist.
- Decreased grip strength.
Tennis elbow treatment options:
- Rest or decreased physical activity.
- Ice.
- Anti-inflammatory medicines like ibuprofen and aspirin.
- Tennis elbow brace.
- Physical therapy.
- Steroid or cortisone injections.
- Working with a professional to evaluate and assess body mechanics.
What is a rotator cuff injury?
The rotator cuff is composed of four muscles. Over time, rotator cuff tendons can rub against a bone in the shoulder which can lead to rotator cuff tears or tendonitis. Repetitive overhead motions used in sports like tennis, swimming and baseball can also increase the risk of rotator cuff injuries.
Rotator cuff injury symptoms:
- Pain and weakness, particularly when raising the arm forward, overhead or out to the side.
- Decreased range of motion.
- Dull, aching pain that radiates down the arm.
- Loss of strength or endurance during physical activity.
- Loss of velocity, speed or control.
Rotator cuff treatment options:
- Rest.
- Activity modifications, such as adjusting practice intensity.
- Anti-inflammatory medicines like ibuprofen and aspirin.
- Physical therapy.
- Steroid or cortisone injections.
I think I rolled my ankle.
The most common ankle injuries tend to be noncontact, often due to a misstep, fall, or an awkward landing after jumping. However, direct impacts from forces like crashes or dropped objects can also cause ankle injuries. Balance training, strengthening exercises and taping can help stabilize the ankle to prevent injury.
Ankle injury symptoms:
- Pain, either localized or in widespread, especially when walking or standing.
- Persistent swelling (usually on the outside of the ankle but may be the whole ankle).
- Loss of function, range of motion or balance issues.
- Inability to bear weight or walk on the foot/ankle.
Ankle injury treatment options:
- Rest.
- Ice.
- Compression or an ACE™ wrap.
- Walking boot or crutches, particularly for those unable to walk without pain or limping.
- Anti-inflammatory medicines like ibuprofen and aspirin.
- Physical therapy.
- Balance exercises and activities to strengthen the foot and ankle.
Oh, my leg!
Hamstring, hip and thigh muscle injuries can range in severity from stretching of the muscle to a partial tear or complete rupture. Most often, these muscles are injured because of one or a combination of the following:
- Fatigue.
- Overload.
- Overstretching.
- Muscular imbalance.
- Not warming up properly.
- Returning to play too soon after an injury.
Hamstring, hip and thigh muscle injury symptoms:
- Pain in the back of the leg or up near the glutes where the hamstrings attach.
- A ‘pop’ at the time of impact.
- A knot in the back of the leg or a hole if the muscle is torn.
- Bruising in the back of the leg or behind the knee.
- Weakness in the leg.
- A cramping sensation.
- Swelling that doesn't go away.
Hamstring, hip and thigh muscle injury treatment options:
- Rest.
- Ice.
- ACE™ wrap or neoprene thigh sleeve.
- Anti-inflammatory medicines like ibuprofen and aspirin.
- Physical therapy.
When an injury occurs, it's important to seek treatment to avoid permanent damage or loss of function. A health care provider can perform a physical examination and may order additional tests, such as X-rays or an MRI, to help identify the best course of care.
If you experience any of the symptoms above, reach out to the UNO Health Center for an expert consult and recommendation. Call 402.554.2374 or visit our appointments page to schedule.