4490 Washington Road, Suite 2 | Evans, GA 30809

Walk in or call ahead at 762-930-FLEX (3539)

Conditions Treated

Conditions Treated

Flex Health | Augusta, GA

Achilles Tendonitis

Achilles tendonitis is a prevalent condition among athletes, characterized by inflammation and micro-tears in the Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. It typically arises from overuse, improper footwear, or sudden increases in training intensity, leading to symptoms such as pain, stiffness, and swelling in the back of the ankle. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment, including rest, physical therapy, and biomechanical adjustments, are essential for athletes looking to return to their sport at full strength and minimize the risk of recurrent injury.

Acromioclavicular Joint Injury (AC)

An Acromioclavicular (AC) joint injury is a common occurrence in sports, often resulting from falls or direct trauma to the shoulder region. This injury can lead to pain, swelling, and instability at the top of the shoulder where the collarbone (clavicle) meets the shoulder blade (acromion). Management of AC joint injuries in athletes may involve rest, physical therapy, or in severe cases, surgical intervention to stabilize the joint and allow for a safe return to sporting activities.

Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL)

The Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) is a critical stabilizing ligament in the knee, often susceptible to injury in sports that involve sudden stops, pivots, or changes in direction. ACL tears can be debilitating, leading to knee instability, pain, and swelling, which can significantly impact an athlete's performance. Treatment options for ACL injuries may include surgical reconstruction followed by an extensive rehabilitation program to help athletes regain strength, stability, and agility necessary for returning to their sport.

Osteoarthritis

People with osteoarthritis usually have joint pain and, after rest or inactivity, stiffness for a short period of time. The most commonly affected joints include the:


  • Hands (ends of the fingers and at the base and ends of the thumbs).
  • Knees
  • Hips
  • Neck
  • Lower back


Osteoarthritis affects each person differently. For some people, osteoarthritis is relatively mild and does not affect day-to-day activities. For others, it causes significant pain and disability. Joint damage usually develops gradually over years, although it could worsen quickly in some people.

  • Additional Information about Osteoarthritis

    What happens in osteoarthritis?


    Researchers do not know what triggers or starts the breakdown of the tissues in the joint.  However, as osteoarthritis begins to develop, it can damage all the areas of the joint, including:


    Cartilage, the tissue that covers the ends where two bones meet to form a joint

    Tendons and ligaments

    Synovium, the lining of the joint

    Bone

    Meniscus in the knee


    As the damage to soft tissues in the joint progresses, pain, swelling, and loss of joint motion develop. If you have joint pain, you may be less active, and this can lead to muscle weakness, which may cause more stress on the joint. Over time, the joint may lose its normal shape. Also, small bone growths, called osteophytes or bone spurs, may grow on the edges of the joint. The shape of the bone may also change. Bits of bone or cartilage can also break off and float inside the joint space. This causes more damage. Researchers continue to study the cause of pain in people who have osteoarthritis.


    Who Gets Osteoarthritis?


    Anyone can get osteoarthritis; however, it is more common as people age. Women are more likely than men to have osteoarthritis, especially after age 50. For many women, it develops after menopause.


    Younger people can also develop osteoarthritis, usually as the result of:


    Joint injury

    Abnormal joint structure

    A genetic defect in joint cartilage


    Symptoms of Osteoarthritis


    The symptoms of osteoarthritis often begin slowly and usually begin with one or a few joints. The common symptoms of osteoarthritis include:


    Pain when using the joint, which may improve with rest. For some people, in the later stages of the disease, the pain may be worse at night. Pain can be localized or widespread.

    Joint stiffness, usually lasting less than 30 minutes, in the morning or after resting for a period of time.

    Joint changes that can limit joint movement.

    Swelling in and around the joint, especially after a lot of activity or use of that area.

    Changes in the ability to move the joint.

    Feeling that the joint is loose or unstable.


    Osteoarthritis symptoms can affect joints differently. For example:


    Hands. Bony enlargements and shape changes in the finger joints can happen over time.

    Knees. When walking or moving, you may hear a grinding or scaping noise. Over time, muscle and ligament weakness can cause the knee to buckle.

    Hips. You might feel pain and stiffness in the hip joint or in the groin, inner thigh, or buttocks. Sometimes, the pain from arthritis in the hip can radiate (spread) to the knees. Over time, you may not be able to move your hip as far as you did in the past.

    Spine. You may feel stiffness and pain in the neck or lower back. As changes in the spine happen, some people develop spinal stenosis, which can lead to other symptoms.


    As your symptoms worsen over time, activities that you could participate in become difficult to do, such as stepping up, getting on or off the toilet or in and out of a chair, gripping a pan, or walking across a parking lot.


    Pain and other symptoms of osteoarthritis may lead you to feel tired, have problems sleeping, and feel depressed.


    Cause of Osteoarthritis


    Osteoarthritis happens when the cartilage and other tissues within the joint break down or have a change in their structure. This does not happen because of simple wear and tear on the joints. Instead, changes in the tissue can trigger the breakdown, which usually happens gradually over time.


    Certain factors may make it more likely for you to develop the disease, including:


    Aging.

    Being overweight or obese.

    History of injury or surgery to a joint.

    Overuse from repetitive movements of the joint.

    Joints that do not form correctly.

    Family history of osteoarthritis.


    Diagnosis of Osteoarthritis  


    There is no single test for osteoarthritis. Diagnosing the condition may include the following:


    Provide a doctor with a medical history that includes your symptoms, any other medical problems you and your close family members have, and any medications you are taking.

    Have a physical exam to check your general health, reflexes, and problem joints.

    Having images taken of your joint using:

    X-rays, can show loss of joint space, bone damage, bone remodeling, and bone spurs. Early joint damage does not usually appear on X-rays.

    Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), can show damage to soft tissues in and around the joint. Generally, MRI helps health care providers evaluate a joint that is locking or giving out.

    Having blood tests to rule out other causes for symptoms.


    Taking joint fluid samples to look for other causes of joint pain, such as infection or gout.


    Treatment of Osteoarthritis


    The goals of your treatment for osteoarthritis include:


    Reducing pain and other symptoms.

    Improving joint function.

    Stopping the disease from progressing.

    Maintaining a health-related quality of life to help prevent disability.


    Treating osteoarthritis usually begins with:


    Learning about osteoarthritis. Your doctor may recommend classes that you can attend or online programs you can join.

    Exercising, which can reduce joint pain and stiffness and increase flexibility, muscle strength, and endurance. Remember to start any exercise program slowly and take the time to adjust to the new level of activity. You should speak to your doctor or physical therapist about a safe, well-rounded exercise program, which may include:

    Range-of-motion and stretching activities to keep your joints limber.

    Strengthening exercises performed with weights or exercise bands to strengthen muscles that support joints affected by arthritis.

    Exercises in the water to help lower the stress on the joints while exercising.

    Balance and agility exercises to help you maintain daily living skills.

    Low-impact activities that give you a moderate level of activity without putting stress on the joints. These may include walking, cycling, swimming, tai chi, water aerobics, or a low-impact aerobics class.

    Managing your weight can help reduce the stress on joints. In addition, if you are overweight or obese, losing weight can help to reduce pain, prevent more injury, and increase mobility in the joints. This can be especially helpful for weight-bearing joints such as your knees or hips.

    Using braces or orthotics that your doctor prescribes and that are fitted by a health care professional may be helpful to stabilize a joint affected by osteoarthritis.


    Some people may need medications to help manage the symptoms of osteoarthritis, including:


    Oral pain relievers.

    Oral anti-inflammatory medications to treat pain and inflammation.

    Topical creams, rubs, or sprays that you apply to the skin over sore joints to relieve pain.

    Corticosteroids, strong inflammation-fighting drugs that are usually injected into the joint to temporarily relieve pain. Because they are potent drugs, your doctor will determine how many injections you should receive and how often to achieve the desired benefit.

    Hyaluronic acid substitutes (viscosupplements), which are injected into the knee to replace a normal component of the joint involved in lubrication and nutrition are sometimes recommended for knee osteoarthritis.

    Selective serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors that you take orally to help control chronic (long-term) pain.


    If other treatments are not helping and if the joint damage is extensive, some people may have surgery. When considering surgery, many factors may determine if it is the right option, including your age, pain intensity, the degree to which arthritis interferes with your lifestyle, level of disability, and occupation. Surgeries may include one or more of the following:


    Osteotomy: Surgical removal of a piece of bone.

    Partial or total joint replacement surgery: Removal of part of all of the damaged joint and replacing it with a new joint made of plastic, metal, or ceramic.


    Other therapies such as massage can increase blood flow and bring warmth to the area. Some research shows that acupuncture may help relieve osteoarthritis pain. Doctors believe that the needles stimulate the release of natural, pain-relieving chemicals produced by the nervous system. Before using other therapies, talk to your doctor about the best options for your treatment.


    Who Treats Osteoarthritis?


    Treating osteoarthritis requires a team effort involving you and several types of health care professionals. These may include:


    Rheumatologists, who specialize in arthritis and other diseases of the bones, joints, and muscles.

    Primary care sports medicine doctors, who coordinates care between the different health providers and treats other problems as they arise.

    Orthopaedic surgeons, who specialize in treatment and surgery for bone and joint diseases.

    Physical therapists, who help improve joint function.

    Occupational therapists, who teach ways to protect joints, minimize pain, perform activities of daily living, and conserve energy.

    Dietitians, who teach about nutrition and maintaining a healthy weight.

    Nurse educators, who help you understand your condition and help start treatment plans.

    Physiatrists (physical, medicine, and rehabilitation specialists), who supervise exercise programs.

    Psychologists or social workers, who help with psychosocial challenges caused by medical conditions.

    Chiropractors, who focus treatment on the relationship between the body's structure, mainly the spine, and its functioning.


    Living With Osteoarthritis


    There are many things you can do to help you live with osteoarthritis, including:


    Heat and cold therapies can reduce joint pain. Heat therapy increases blood flow, tolerance for pain, and flexibility. Cold therapy numbs the nerves around the joint to reduce pain and may relieve inflammation.


    Support or assistive devices such as a cane or walker can help you move around safely, provide stability, and lower pain. If you have arthritis in your hands, you may find it helpful to use devices to help you grip, such as jar openers.


    Try to avoid repetitive motions, such as frequent bending.


    Shoe inserts or braces can help support your joint and help lower pain and pressure in the area. This can be helpful when you stand or walk.


    Make appointments to see your healthcare provider. This allows you to participate in your treatment and talk about your symptoms. Some people find it helpful to join a class that provides information on osteoarthritis and how to manage the symptoms to allow you to live an active lifestyle.


    Support groups, both online and in your community, can help you cope and offer tips on how to emotionally manage having the disease and live a healthy lifestyle.

Avascular Necrosis

Avascular necrosis, also known as osteonecrosis, can affect athletes when the blood supply to a bone is disrupted, causing the bone tissue to die. This condition can result from injuries or the prolonged use of corticosteroid medications, leading to joint pain, limited mobility, and, in severe cases, joint degeneration. Timely diagnosis and intervention are crucial in sports medicine to prevent the progression of avascular necrosis and preserve joint function for athletes.

Bicep Tendonitis

Bicep tendonitis is a common overuse injury among athletes, especially those involved in repetitive upper body motions such as throwing or weightlifting. It involves inflammation or irritation of the tendons connecting the bicep muscle to the shoulder or elbow, leading to symptoms like pain, weakness, and swelling in the affected arm. Proper diagnosis and a comprehensive rehabilitation program, which may include rest, physical therapy, and anti-inflammatory measures, are essential for athletes aiming to recover and regain their peak performance.

Burners and Stingers

Burners and stingers are transient nerve injuries commonly observed in contact sports like football. They occur when there is a sudden impact or trauma to the neck and shoulder region, resulting in a sharp burning sensation, numbness, or weakness radiating down the arm. While these injuries often resolve spontaneously, proper evaluation and medical care are essential to rule out more severe underlying issues and ensure a safe return to sports for athletes.

Clavicle Fractures

A clavicle fracture, or broken collarbone, is a frequently encountered injury in sports, often caused by a direct impact or fall onto the shoulder or upper arm. Athletes with a clavicle fracture typically experience pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the affected arm. Treatment options vary depending on the severity of the fracture but may include immobilization with a sling, rest, and, in some cases, surgical intervention to promote proper healing and a quicker return to sports activities.

Colles' Fracture

Colles' fracture is a common wrist injury frequently seen in sports, particularly when athletes fall onto outstretched hands. It involves a break in the radius bone near the wrist joint, resulting in pain, swelling, and limited wrist mobility. Treatment typically includes immobilization with a splint or cast and rehabilitation to ensure proper healing and restore wrist function, allowing athletes to return to their sports safely and effectively.

Concussion/Mild TBI

Mild TBI, often referred to as a concussion, is a prevalent concern in sports. It occurs due to a forceful blow or jolt to the head or body, leading to temporary neurological dysfunction. Athletes with a mild TBI may experience symptoms like headache, dizziness, and cognitive changes, highlighting the importance of proper diagnosis, rest, and gradual return-to-play protocols to ensure their safety and reduce the risk of further injury. Click here to view the CDC's guide.

Dislocated Shoulder

A dislocated shoulder occurs when the upper arm bone (humerus) pops out of its socket in the shoulder blade (scapula). This injury is often caused by a traumatic event, such as a fall or a collision during sports, and is characterized by severe pain, swelling, and limited range of motion in the affected shoulder. Immediate medical attention is essential to reduce the dislocation and provide appropriate treatment, which may include rest, physical therapy, or in some cases, surgical intervention to stabilize the joint.

Ankle Sprains

Eversion and inversion ankle sprains are two common types of ankle injuries. An inversion ankle sprain occurs when the ankle rolls inward, damaging the ligaments on the outer side of the joint, while an eversion ankle sprain happens when the ankle rolls outward, affecting the inner ligaments. Both injuries can cause pain, swelling, and instability in the ankle, and treatment typically involves rest, ice, compression, and physical therapy to promote healing and prevent recurrent sprains.

Finger and Hand Injuries

Finger and hand injuries are common occurrences in sports, often resulting from direct trauma, repetitive stress, or overuse. These injuries can range from fractures and dislocations to tendonitis and ligament sprains, causing pain and impaired hand function. Prompt evaluation by a sports medicine specialist is crucial to accurately diagnose and treat these injuries, as early intervention and proper rehabilitation are essential for athletes to regain strength and dexterity in their hands and return to their sport safely.

Femoral Acetabular Impingement (FAI)

Femoral Acetabular Impingement (FAI) is a condition commonly seen in athletes, characterized by an abnormal shape of the hip joint. This anatomical anomaly can cause the bones of the hip joint to rub against each other during movement, leading to pain, stiffness, and potential cartilage damage. Athletes experiencing symptoms consistent with FAI should seek evaluation by a sports medicine specialist, as early intervention and appropriate management strategies can help alleviate discomfort and prevent long-term hip joint issues.

Frozen Shoulder

Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, is a condition characterized by the gradual onset of shoulder pain and stiffness. It typically progresses through stages of increasing limitation in shoulder movement, making daily activities and sports participation challenging. Treatment for frozen shoulder often involves physical therapy, stretching exercises, and occasionally, corticosteroid injections to relieve pain and improve range of motion, allowing athletes to return to their sports with reduced discomfort and improved shoulder function.

Hip Pointers

Hip pointers are painful injuries that occur due to direct impact or trauma to the bony prominence of the hip, often in contact sports. These injuries can lead to significant pain, swelling, and bruising in the hip area, making it challenging to move or bear weight on the affected leg. Treatment typically involves rest, ice, compression, and anti-inflammatory medications, along with physical therapy to regain strength and range of motion in the hip.

Golfer's Elbow

Golfer's elbow, known medically as medial epicondylitis, is a common sports-related condition that results from repetitive wrist and forearm movements, often seen in activities like golfing, racket sports, or weightlifting. It involves inflammation and microtears in the tendons that attach to the inner side of the elbow, leading to pain and tenderness. Treatment typically involves rest, ice, specific exercises, and sometimes bracing to alleviate symptoms and facilitate the healing of the affected tendons.

IT Band Syndrome

IT Band Syndrome, also known as iliotibial band syndrome or hip bursitis, is a common overuse injury among athletes. This condition involves inflammation and irritation of the iliotibial band, a thick band of tissue that runs along the outside of the thigh from the hip to the knee. IT Band Syndrome often presents as pain on the outer side of the knee or hip, especially during activities like running or cycling. Treatment typically includes rest, stretching, and strengthening exercises, along with addressing any underlying biomechanical issues to alleviate symptoms and prevent recurrence.

Labral Tears

Labral tears in the shoulder or hip are common injuries among athletes, particularly in sports that involve repetitive overhead movements or hip rotation. These tears involve damage to the labrum, a ring of cartilage that surrounds the joint socket, leading to pain, decreased stability, and limited range of motion. Treatment options may include physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, or in some cases, arthroscopic surgery to repair or trim the torn labrum and restore joint function.

Lower Back Pain

Lower back pain is a common issue among athletes, often stemming from the repetitive stresses and high-intensity activities associated with sports. It can affect performance and lead to discomfort. Accurate diagnosis, customized rehabilitation, and preventive measures such as core strengthening are crucial for athletes to effectively manage and reduce the recurrence of lower back pain, allowing them to continue competing at their best.

Medical Collateral Ligament (MCL)

Medical collateral ligament (MCL) and lateral collateral ligament (LCL) sprains are frequent injuries in sports, typically occurring when there is a forceful impact or twisting of the knee. MCL sprains involve the ligament on the inner side of the knee, while LCL sprains affect the outer side. Both injuries can result in pain, swelling, and instability in the knee joint. Treatment options range from conservative measures like rest, bracing, and physical therapy to surgical intervention in severe cases, with the goal of restoring knee stability and allowing athletes to return to their sports safely.

Meniscus Tears

Meniscus tears are common knee injuries in sports, often occurring during activities that involve twisting or sudden changes in direction. These injuries can cause pain, swelling, and limited knee mobility, affecting an athlete's performance. Treatment options for meniscus tears may include rest, physical therapy, or arthroscopic surgery to repair or trim the damaged tissue, depending on the severity of the tear and the athlete's goals for returning to their sport.

Neck Pain

Neck pain is a prevalent issue among athletes, often resulting from the strain and physical demands of sports participation. It can be caused by muscle tension, overuse, or even direct trauma. Proper diagnosis and comprehensive treatment, including physical therapy, stretching, and strengthening exercises, are essential for athletes to manage neck pain effectively, improve performance, and minimize the risk of recurrent issues that may hinder their sports participation.

Osgood-Schlatter

Osgood-Schlatter disease is a common condition among young athletes, especially those involved in sports that require frequent running and jumping. It is characterized by inflammation and irritation of the growth plate located just below the kneecap. This condition typically causes knee pain and swelling, often exacerbated by physical activity. Proper management includes rest, ice, and physical therapy to alleviate symptoms and ensure a safe return to sports when the growth plate has fully closed.

Patellar Tendonitis

Patellar tendonitis, commonly known as Jumper's Knee, is a prevalent overuse injury among athletes involved in activities that require repetitive jumping and landing. It is characterized by pain, tenderness, and swelling just below the kneecap, where the patellar tendon connects the quadriceps muscle to the shinbone. Effective management often involves rest, physical therapy, and strengthening exercises to alleviate symptoms and prevent further injury, allowing athletes to return to their sports with reduced risk of recurrence.

Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome

Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome, commonly referred to as Runner's Knee, is a prevalent knee condition among athletes, particularly runners and cyclists. It is characterized by pain and discomfort around or behind the kneecap, exacerbated by activities like running, squatting, or ascending/descending stairs. Effective treatment typically involves rest, strengthening exercises, and biomechanical adjustments to alleviate pain, improve knee stability, and enable athletes to continue their training with reduced risk of recurrent symptoms.

Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar Fasciitis is a common foot ailment among athletes, especially those engaged in high-impact sports like running or basketball. It involves inflammation and micro-tears in the plantar fascia, the tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot, causing severe heel pain and stiffness, often most pronounced in the morning or after periods of inactivity. Treatment options for Plantar Fasciitis may include rest, stretching exercises, orthotic devices, and, in severe cases, corticosteroid injections or physical therapy to relieve symptoms and facilitate a return to sports with improved foot health.

Posterior Cruciate Ligament (PCL)

A Posterior Cruciate Ligament (PCL) injury is a less common but significant knee injury in sports, often resulting from direct impact to the front of the knee while it is bent. PCL injuries can lead to pain, swelling, and instability in the knee joint. Treatment options may include conservative measures such as rest, physical therapy, and bracing, or in some cases, surgical intervention to restore knee stability and function, enabling athletes to return to their sports with reduced risk of further injury.

Rotator Cuff Tear

A Rotator cuff tear injuries are prevalent among athletes, particularly those engaged in sports with repetitive overhead motions, such as baseball or tennis. These injuries involve damage to the group of muscles and tendons that stabilize the shoulder joint, leading to pain, weakness, and limited range of motion in the shoulder. Treatment for rotator cuff tears can range from rest and physical therapy for partial tears to surgical repair for more severe cases, aiming to relieve symptoms and restore shoulder function, allowing athletes to return to their sports with improved strength and mobility.

Sever's Disease

Sever's Disease, also known as calcaneal apophysitis, is a common condition among young athletes, particularly those engaged in activities involving running and jumping. It occurs due to inflammation and irritation of the growth plate in the heel bone, causing heel pain and discomfort. Treatment typically involves rest, heel cushions or orthotic devices, and stretches to alleviate symptoms and allow young athletes to continue their sports participation while minimizing the risk of complications.

Shin Splints

Shin splints, or medial tibial stress syndrome, are a prevalent issue among athletes, especially runners and those involved in high-impact sports. They involve pain and discomfort along the front of the lower leg, typically due to overuse or repetitive stress on the shinbone and its surrounding muscles and tissues. Treatment for shin splints often includes rest, ice, stretching, and gradual return to activity, along with proper footwear and biomechanical assessment to reduce the risk of recurrence and allow athletes to continue training effectively.

Shoulder Impingement

Shoulder impingement is a common problem in sports, especially in overhead athletes like baseball players and swimmers. It occurs when the tendons of the rotator cuff become pinched or compressed in the shoulder joint, leading to pain and limited range of motion. Treatment typically involves rest, physical therapy, and exercises to strengthen the rotator cuff muscles, along with modifications to training techniques and equipment to alleviate symptoms and prevent future impingement issues, allowing athletes to maintain peak performance.

Strains & Sprains

Muscle strains are a frequent occurrence in sports, often resulting from sudden overstretching or forceful contraction of muscles. Athletes may experience pain, swelling, and muscle weakness as a result. Proper warm-up, stretching routines, and strength training, along with adequate rest and recovery, play a crucial role in preventing muscle strains and ensuring optimal athletic performance.

  • Additional Information about Strains & Sprains

    Sprains and strains are common injuries affecting the muscles and ligaments. Most can be treated at home without seeing a GP.


    Check if you have a sprain or strain:


    It's likely to be a sprain or strain if:


    you have pain, tenderness or weakness – often around your ankle, foot, wrist, thumb, knee, leg or back

    the injured area is swollen or bruised

    you cannot put weight on the injury or use it normally

    you have muscle spasms or cramping – where your muscles painfully tighten on their own


    The differences between strains and sprains:


    Sprains:

    Torn or twisted ligament (tissue that connects the joints)

    Most common in: wrists, ankles, thumbs, knees


    Strains:

    Overstretched or torn muscle (also known as a pulled muscle)

    Most common in: knees, feet, legs, back


    How to treat sprains and strains yourself


    For the first couple of days, follow the 4 steps known as RICE therapy to help bring down swelling and support the injury:


    Rest – stop any exercise or activities and try not to put any weight on the injury.

    Ice – apply an ice pack (or a bag of frozen vegetables wrapped in a tea towel) to the injury for up to 20 minutes every 2 to 3 hours.

    Compression – wrap a bandage around the injury to support it.

    Elevate – keep it raised on a pillow as much as possible.


    To help prevent swelling, try to avoid heat (such as hot baths and heat packs), alcohol and massages for the first couple of days.

    When you can move the injured area without pain stopping you, try to keep moving it so the joint or muscle does not become stiff.


    A pharmacist can help with sprains and strains


    Speak to a pharmacist about the best treatment for you. They might suggest tablets, or a cream or gel you rub on the skin.

    At first, try painkillers like acetaminophen to ease the pain and ibuprofen gel, mousse or spray to bring down swelling.

    If needed, you can take ibuprofen tablets, capsules or syrup that you swallow.


    How long it takes for a sprain or strain to heal


    After 2 weeks, most sprains and strains will feel better.

    Avoid strenuous exercise such as running for up to 8 weeks, as there's a risk of further damage.

    Severe sprains and strains can take months to get back to normal.


    You cannot always prevent sprains and strains


    Sprains and strains happen when you overstretch or twist a muscle.

    Not warming up before exercising, tired muscles and playing sport are common causes.


    You may need urgent services if:


    You've had an injury and:

    it's very painful, or the pain is getting worse

    there is a large amount of swelling or bruising, or the swelling or bruising is getting worse

    it hurts to put weight on it

    it feels very stiff or is difficult to move

    it's not feeling any better after treating it yourself

    you also have a very high temperature or feel hot and shivery – this could be an infection

    111 will tell you what to do. They can tell you the right place to get help if you need to see someone.


    Go to an urgent treatment center


    Urgent treatment centers are places you can go if you need to see someone now.

    They're also called walk-in centers or minor injuries units.

    You may be seen quicker than you would at A&E.

    You may be given self-care advice or prescribed a stronger painkiller.

    If you need an X-ray, it might be possible to have one at the unit, or you may be referred to the hospital.


    Physiotherapy for sprains and strains


    If you have a sprain or strain that's taking longer than usual to get better, a GP may be able to refer you to a physiotherapist.

    Physiotherapy from the NHS might not be available everywhere and waiting times can be long. You can also get it privately.


    Immediate action required:


    you heard a crack when you had your injury

    the injured body part has changed shape or is pointing at an odd angle

    the injured body part is numb, tingling or has pins and needles

    the skin around the injury has changed color, such as looking blue or grey, or is cold to touch

    You may have broken a bone and will need an X-ray.

Sports Strains

Sports strains encompass a range of injuries that can affect athletes, from muscle strains to ligament and tendon strains. These injuries often occur due to sudden, forceful movements or overexertion during sports activities. Timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment, which may include rest, rehabilitation exercises, and in some cases, surgical intervention, are essential for athletes to recover and return to their sports at their full potential while minimizing the risk of recurrent strains.

Tennis Elbow

Tennis elbow, or lateral epicondylitis, is a common overuse injury that affects athletes, particularly those who engage in repetitive wrist and forearm movements, such as tennis players and golfers. This condition involves pain and tenderness on the outer part of the elbow, often accompanied by weakened grip strength. Treatment typically includes rest, physical therapy, and exercises to strengthen the affected muscles and reduce strain on the tendons, enabling athletes to return to their sports with improved elbow health and function.

Trochanteric Bursitis

Trochanteric bursitis is a condition commonly seen in athletes, particularly runners and cyclists, and it involves inflammation of the bursa sac located near the hip joint's greater trochanter. This condition leads to pain and tenderness on the outer hip, which can limit a person's mobility and affect their sports performance. Treatment for trochanteric bursitis typically includes rest, physical therapy, and anti-inflammatory measures, allowing athletes to alleviate symptoms and return to their activities with improved hip function.

Turf toe, or metatarsophalangeal joint sprain, is a common injury among athletes, particularly those who play on artificial turf surfaces. It involves damage to the ligaments surrounding the base of the big toe, leading to pain, swelling, and limited range of motion. Treatment may include rest, immobilization, and physical therapy, with a focus on preventing recurrence and ensuring a safe return to sports activities with proper footwear and support.

Share by: