According to a renowned orthopaedic doctor in Newtown, soft tissue injuries are common in our daily lives, often resulting from accidents and exercises. These injuries can be painful, but one can fully recover with proper care and treatment.
Types of common types of soft-tissue injuries
Soft tissue injuries can be broken down into two broad categories based on cause.
Acute injuries
Acute injuries occur due to sudden trauma to the injured region. The types of acute injuries are:
1. Sprain: A sprain is a tear or stretch of the ligament resulting in acute pain. This usually happens during activities that involve sudden twists or impacts, such as playing sports.
Treatment: Applying ice packs, and adopting the elevation protocol or Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation (RICE) is the initial approach for treating sprains. Keep the injured portion elevated and above the level of the heart whenever possible. This will help minimise swelling by promoting proper fluid drainage from the affected tissues. But, if you are suffering from a severe case, you might require a brace or an ankle ligament reconstruction surgery.
2. Strains: Overstretching a muscle causes a strain, resulting in a partial or complete tear of the tendons.
Treatment: A renowned orthopaedic surgeon in Salt Lake recommends resting and applying ice packs to the injured area. Moreover, consulting with a doctor for using anti-inflammatory medications, such as ibuprofen, is another effective way to treat strains.
3. Contusion: A contusion, commonly known as a bruise, results from a direct blow to the muscle or soft tissue. It can cause pain, swelling, and discolouration around the area of the injury.
Treatment: In most cases, contusions heal on their own, but visiting a doctor at the earliest is recommended. Applying ice packs and keeping the bruised area elevated will help reduce the pain and swelling.
Overuse injuries
Overuse injuries develop due to specific movements, like overtraining. The types of overuse injuries are:
1. Tendinitis: Tendinitis is the inflammation of a tendon that happens mostly while playing some sport. Symptoms include pain, swelling, and the inability to move the injured part.
Treatment: Consulting a doctor will help you assess the severity of your condition. Resting the injured area and applying anti-inflammatory medication is frequently recommended.
2. Bursitis: This is caused by the inflammation of the bursae, which are tiny sacs filled with fluid that cushion the joints. It often occurs in areas subjected to repetitive movements and pressure, such as the shoulder, hip, or knee.
Treatment: Initial treatment will include rest, the application of ice packs, and anti-inflammatory medication after consultation with an experienced doctor.
If you or someone you know is experiencing soft tissue injury, do not hesitate to consult a trusted orthopaedic doctor in Newtown for the best possible care and guidance.