Understanding and Treating Sports-Related Injuries: Insights From an Orthopedic Surgeon

Dr. Joseph Finch is your local orthopedic surgeon at Michigan Orthopedic Specialists in Dearborn, MI, with years of experience treating many sports-related injuries. As an orthopedic specialist, he handles issues relating to the musculoskeletal system. If you are an active person with sports injury concerns, it is time for a consultation.

What Are Common Injuries an Orthopedic Surgeon in Dearborn, MI, May Handle

Sports injuries can happen in any part of the body, ranging from a head concussion to a sprained ankle. Orthopedic surgeons focus on injuries related to the ligaments, tendons, cartilage, bones, and joints. They often see ACL tears, which affect knee stability. When ACL tears happen, your surgeon may have to perform surgical reconstruction. Rotator cuff injuries occur around the shoulder joint.

Fractures can happen frequently as bones are affected due to high impact. Sports such as football often see these types of injuries. When a bone moves out of its normal position, it is dislocated.

Tendinitis is when any tendon becomes inflamed due to repetitive movement or strain. A  common condition is Achilles Tendonitis, which often affects runners and basketball players. While tendonitis can heal with compression, rest, and physical therapy, surgical intervention may be necessary when tendons are torn.

What Are Surgical Approaches?

The type of surgery required depends on the extent of the injury. Dr. Finch may initially provide non-surgical treatments, such as anti-inflammation prescriptions, corticosteroid injections, and physical therapy sessions. He can monitor the situation to see if healing occurs.

If non-surgical treatment doesn’t work, the patient can be scheduled for surgery.

With minimally invasive surgery, small incisions and sometimes robotics can help make the procedure faster. This type of surgery also requires shorter healing times.

Some sports injuries, such as an ACL tear or complex bone fractures, may require reconstructive work. Due to excessive wear and tear, some surgeries may require a complete joint replacement. After surgery, the patient should undergo rehabilitation to restore function as much as possible. Physical therapy can last several weeks, during which the patient undergoes monitored stretches to improve range of motion and flexibility and build strength in the area.

Contact Us Today 

When you consult Michigan Orthopedic Specialists, Dr. Finch can guide you on surgical options. As a trained orthopedic surgeon in Dearborn and Farmington Hills, MI, he has the expertise to diagnose and recommend the best approach to your sports injury.

To learn more and schedule a consultation, call the Dearborn, MI, office at (313) 277-6700 or the Farmington Hills, MI, location at (248) 372-9600.