Midwest Sports Medicine Doctors

Many athletes from all levels of sports find themselves rehabilitating an injury at some point during their careers. Common sports injuries include anterior crutiate ligament (ACL) sprain or tear, groin pull, shin splints, shoulder impingement, tendonitis and hamstring strain. While many of these injuries are treated with rest, icing and anti-inflammatory medications, some require surgical intervention and lengthy rehab.

"...The most common cause of sports injuries is overuse." Athletes pushed to practice harder and longer begin to stress the joints and muscles required for their sport, and rehabilitation can be a lengthy, arduous process.

Causes and Prevention of Overuse Injuries

Physicians often find that there are several reasons for overuse injuries:

• Lack of pre-season preparation
• Improper form during repetitive motion
• Faulty gear and equipment
• Lack of time for proper warm-up
• Lack of time for proper stretching

First of all, athletes should work to perfect form, posture and technique in order to improve their performance and avoid bad habits that could lead to injury. In addition, those involved in regular athletic activity should update their equipment and immediately replace worn or faulty gear.

It is also imperative to cross train and plan ahead for the sporting season, rather than jumping into training completely unprepared. Arriving at practices and games early to get in a proper warm-up and gentle stretch helps prevent muscles and connective tissue from becoming strained or sprained.

Sports Rehabilitation Doctors at the Orthopedic Center for the Dakotas

Athletes in the Midwest can consult with a sports medicine doctor, rehab from surgery and undergo physical therapy at the Orthopedic Center for the Dakotas. The Center serves a 90-mile radius in North and South Dakota, and the medical team provides quality treatment and rehabilitation care to inpatients and outpatients. Contact the Center's health care team for an appointment in your area.