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Overuse Injuries

There are essentially two types of sports injuries: acute injuries and overuse injuries. Acute injuries are usually the result of a single traumatic event, such as a sprained ankle during a soccer game. Overuse injuries are a little different. They are the result of repetitive micro-trauma to the tendons, bones, and/or joint. Some common examples of overuse injuries include:

  • Achilles tendonitis
  • Swimmer’s shoulder
  • Tennis elbow
  • Stress fractures
  • Shin splints
  • Runner’s knee

A sports medicine physician at Ogden Clinic can evaluate overuse injuries and identify possible causes. They work together with each patient to not only address the issue, but to help prevent future problems.

What causes overuse injuries?

injuryIn many cases, simply performing repetitive movements over time can lead to overuse injuries. They also come about as a result of faulty mechanisms of movement, muscle imbalance, genetics, poor core strength, or body alignment. Whatever the cause, most overuse injuries are treatable with help from an expert. Our sports medicine specialists also care deeply about preventing overuse injuries in the future and will educate you about the underlying cause of your injury and how to make adjustments that will prevent further problems.

When an overuse injury is identified early, it’s much easier to treat. However, the majority of injuries are seen by a physician when a great deal of pain and discomfort is present. It’s advantageous to visit an Ogden Clinic sports medicine physician when an overuse injury is suspected rather than to wait and see if it resolves itself.

What’s the treatment protocol for overuse injuries?

Our Northern Utah sports medicine physicians have many options when it comes to overuse injuries and will create a customized treatment plan for yours. Ultrasound-guided injections can help patients manage debilitating pain (depending on the nature of the pain). Our sports medicine physician also uses platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections (similar to a cortisone shot) for some injuries to help stubborn tissue begin to heal. Soft tissue mobilization techniques are often employed for overuse injuries to reduce the amount of scar tissue surrounding the injury site.

With any treatment plan, patients should expect to scale back activity and allow their body time to repair itself. This can mean cutting back the duration, frequency, or intensity of their activity and learning proper training techniques from an Ogden Clinic physical therapist. Tried-and-true therapy mechanisms are also prescribed for overuse injuries like rest, ice, proper stretching, and anti-inflammatory medication when needed.

If nagging or persistent pain is getting in between you and the activities you love, contact Ogden Clinic’s Sports Medicine department. Overuse injuries are dangerous; they tend to become worse when patients continue to play on them. Avoid further damage and call us today for a closer look.

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