Sports medicine is an area of healthcare that focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of sports-related injuries, such as sprains, tendonitis, muscle injuries, broken bones, and shoulder impingement. Dr. Edward Diao offers sports medicine services to patients throughout Union Square, San Francisco, California. If you’ve been injured while training or participating in an athletic event and you think you may need surgical treatment, please contact Dr. Edward Diao to schedule a consultation.
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Sports Medicine Q & A
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What is sports medicine?
Sports medicine is a branch of medicine concerned with sports-related injuries. Doctors who practice sports medicine may focus on diagnosing sports-related injuries, providing treatment for sports-related injuries, and preventing these injuries from occurring in the first place. Dr. Diao focuses his practice on the surgical treatment of sports-related injuries.
What injuries are common in sports?
Athletic activities can lead to a variety of different injuries. However, some of the most common injuries among athletes include sprains, strains, and fractures. Athletes may also suffer from torn cartilage or ligaments. Sports injuries often affect the joints, including the wrist, knee, ankle, shoulder, and elbow.
Often, non-operative care will work.
How can surgery help with sports injuries?
Dr. Diao can use surgical procedures to diagnose and treat a variety of sports injuries. When sports injuries affect the joints, for example, Dr. Diao can use arthroscopy to see inside the joint and determine the exact cause of your symptoms. If possible, Dr. Diao will even repair the injury during the same procedure.
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When sports injuries are more severe and can’t be repaired with arthroscopy, Dr. Diao may perform a more invasive procedure. The purpose of the procedure may be to repair or replace a joint, repair or reconstruct a tendon, hold a broken bone in place, or perform other types of repairs. Dr. Diao will explain the purpose and goals of your procedure before you schedule surgery.
When is surgery appropriate for a sports injury?
Many sports injuries will heal on their own without surgery. If your injury is mild or moderate, you may be able to recover with a combination of conservative treatments, such as applying ice, resting the affected area, physical therapy, or using crutches. However, if your injury is more severe, surgery may be your best option.
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Like all surgical procedures, surgery for sports injuries poses risks. If you undergo surgery for a sports injury, you may be at risk of excessive bleeding, infection, and reactions to anesthesia. However, in many cases, the benefits of surgery outweigh the risks. Dr. Diao can help you understand the risks and benefits associated with each surgical procedure so you can decide on the best course of action.
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