Sports Medicine Specialist

Orthopedic Associates PA

Orthopedic Surgeons located in Farmington, NM & Gallup, Gallup, NM

Regular physical activity is an essential part of a healthy lifestyle, but trauma or overuse can cause sports injuries. Orthopedic surgeon Tyson Christensen, MD, and the sports medicine team at Orthopedic Associates PA in Farmington, New Mexico, treat sports injuries in adults and children of all ages. If you or your child has a sports injury, call the office or schedule an appointment online today.

Sports Medicine Q&A

What is sports medicine?

Sports medicine focuses on evaluating and treating injuries and conditions that result from exercise or playing sports. Accidents, improper training, and jumping into a vigorous activity without warming up can all lead to sports injuries.

What are common sports injuries?

There are many ways you can get hurt during sports and exercise. The team at Orthopedic Associates PA treats all types of sports injuries, including:

Fractures and dislocations
Sprains and strains
Tennis elbow
Iliotibial (IT) band syndrome
Knee ligament injuries, including anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears
Meniscus tears
Achilles tendonitis
Plantar fasciitis
Shin splints
Rotator cuff injuries
Shoulder labrum tears
Foot and ankle injuries

Some injuries occur suddenly, while others develop slowly and worsen with continued activity.

Who gets sports injuries?

Children are at especially high risk for sports injuries because they’re so active and curious, but adults get them as well. The team at Orthopedic Associates PA provides comprehensive sports medicine care to patients of all ages and activity levels, from growing children to mature adults.

When should I see a sports medicine physician?

You should call Orthopedic Associates PA as soon as you suspect you have a sports injury. Don’t attempt to resume your activity because that could lead to further damage.

Signs and symptoms of a sports injury depend on the type and location of the problem, but may include:

Pain and swelling
Bruising or redness
Difficulty moving the injured limb or joint
A clicking, crunching, or popping sound

Depending on your condition, pain may worsen after periods of activity or rest. Seek urgent care for intense pain that starts immediately after an accident, such as a fall or collision.

What are common sports medicine treatments?

First, the team at Orthopedic Associates PA carefully evaluates your condition. In addition to a physical exam and medical history review, they may take in-office imaging tests, such as an X-ray or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan.

After they diagnose your condition, they recommend the most appropriate course of treatment. Depending on your specific sports injury, treatment may include:

Rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE)
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
Physical therapy
Casting or bracing
Custom orthotics
Therapeutic injections
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP)

If you have a severe sports injury or your pain and symptoms continue despite conservative treatments, surgery may be necessary.

For advanced expertise in sports medicine, call Orthopedic Associates PA, or book an appointment online today.