Injuries can happen during any activity, especially in high-intensity sports or activities that involve repetitive or strong motions. There are obvious signs to watch out for – like pain, swelling, and stiffness – but other symptoms may not be as apparent, or are easily dismissed.
Let’s talk about some of the commonly missed signs of an injury that both athletes and nonathletes tend to ignore, and where you can go in Greater Cleveland for outstanding orthopedic care and sports medicine treatment.
#1: Muscle Pain
Muscle pain is commonly ignored because of the attitude of “No pain, no gain.” However, muscle pain is a real sign of a possible injury, especially if it is severe or ongoing – and also if you are not strict enough about performing warm-ups before heavy activity.
Many people experience muscle pain in their everyday lives, especially if they:
- Have sleeping habits in which they tend to lie down on a particular area for too long
- Maintain the same posture when working, studying, or sitting still for a long time
- Are taking medication that causes muscle aches as a side effect
- Have a medical condition that affects their muscles
- Work out and exercise regularly
It is easy to brush off muscle pain as insignificant, as it often happens during a workout, sports practice, or competition. However, you should be mindful of any developing aches – they may indicate an orthopedic injury that warrants a medical evaluation and treatment.
#2: Joint Pain
A joint is where two or more bones interconnect for enabling movement. Joints that experience sports injuries most often are the knees, elbows, hips, ankles, wrists, shoulders, and fingers.
Joint pain can be the result of things such as:
- Keeping your joints locked in the same position for a long time
- Performing repetitive motions
- Being overweight or having gained weight rapidly
Consult your orthopedic doctor if you experience persistent or severe joint pain. The physician can recommend a treatment plan to target the cause of your pain, provide relief, and help you prevent the sports injury from happening again.
#3: Numbness or Tingling
Numbness or tingling often involves a feeling of pins and needles in the affected area. It usually affects the limbs and extremities: your arms, legs, hands, feet, fingers, and/or toes. The numbness and tingling can also come with a burning sensation.
Seek assistance by an orthopedic doctor immediately if the numbness and tingling are accompanied by:
- Muscle and limb weakness
- Inability to move a part of your body
- Loss of control over your limbs, bladder, or bowels
- Instability and difficulty walking
- Confusion or unconsciousness (even if brief)
Orthopedic Physicians in Westlake and Avon, OH
If you’re looking for a sports doctor or orthopedic physician in Greater Cleveland, look no further. Orthopaedic Associates in Northeast Ohio has a team of experienced and successful orthopedic specialists who can provide comprehensive care for your sports injury and other musculoskeletal concerns, such as arthritis.
If you want to know more about us or to book a consultation, contact our friendly staff today by calling us at (440) 892-1440 or by filling out our appointment request form. We look forward to serving you at one of our two convenient locations in Westlake and Avon!