Sports Injuries 101: Common Conditions and How We Treat Them

Whether you’re a weekend warrior, a high school athlete, or just love staying active, sports injuries can happen to anyone. At Garden State Pain and Orthopedics, we understand how frustrating it can be when pain sidelines your performance or everyday activities. The good news? With the right diagnosis and treatment, most sports injuries can be effectively managed—and even prevented.

What Are Sports Injuries?

Sports injuries refer to any type of injury that occurs during physical activity or athletic training. They can range from minor sprains and strains to more severe conditions like ligament tears and fractures. While some injuries result from sudden trauma, others develop over time due to repetitive stress or improper form.

Top 7 Most Common Sports Injuries

1. Sprains and Strains

Sprains involve overstretching or tearing ligaments (which connect bones), while strains involve muscles or tendons. These are among the most common sports injuries, often occurring in the ankle, knee, or wrist. Sudden movements, twisting, or collisions can all lead to sprains or strains.

Treatment Options at Garden State Pain:

• RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation)

• Bracing or support

• Physical therapy

• Anti-inflammatory injections if necessary

2. Tendonitis

Tendonitis is the inflammation of a tendon, often due to repetitive motion or overuse. Common examples include Achilles tendonitis (in runners) and tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis).

Treatment Options:

• Rest and activity modification

• Corticosteroid or PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) injections

• Physical therapy to correct movement patterns

• Regenerative medicine to promote healing

3. Runner’s Knee (Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome)

Runner’s knee causes pain around the kneecap, typically due to poor alignment, overuse, or improper tracking of the patella. It’s common in runners, cyclists, and anyone who does frequent knee bending.

Treatment Options:

• Physical therapy to strengthen supporting muscles

• Custom orthotics or bracing

• Anti-inflammatory medication

• Advanced therapies like ultrasound-guided injections

4. Shin Splints

Shin splints refer to pain along the shinbone (tibia), often caused by high-impact activities like running. It can also be a sign of improper footwear or overtraining.

Treatment Options:

• Rest and ice

• Shoe inserts or supportive footwear

• Stretching and strengthening exercises

• Gait analysis to identify movement issues

5. Rotator Cuff Injuries

Shoulder injuries are common in athletes who use repetitive overhead motions, like swimmers, baseball players, or weightlifters. Rotator cuff injuries can range from inflammation to complete tears.

Treatment Options:

• Physical therapy focused on shoulder stability

• Cortisone or PRP injections

• Minimally invasive surgery for tears (when necessary)

• Post-surgical rehab and return-to-sport planning

6. ACL and MCL Tears

Tears in the knee ligaments, especially the ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) or MCL (medial collateral ligament), often occur during sudden stops, pivots, or impact. These injuries are common in contact sports like football and basketball.

Treatment Options:

• Bracing and physical therapy for minor tears

• Surgical repair or reconstruction for complete tears

• Post-op pain management and rehabilitation

• Long-term strength and stability training

7. Stress Fractures

Stress fractures are tiny cracks in the bone that result from overuse, often in the lower legs or feet. They’re common in runners and athletes who increase intensity too quickly.

Treatment Options:

• Rest and temporary activity modification

• Imaging to monitor healing

• Nutritional guidance if bone health is a concern

• Gradual return-to-activity programs

How We Treat Sports Injuries at Garden State Pain and Orthopedics

At Garden State Pain and Orthopedics, we take a comprehensive and personalized approach to treating sports injuries. Our team includes board-certified orthopedic specialists, interventional pain physicians, physical therapists, and regenerative medicine experts, all working together to get you back to doing what you love—safely and effectively.

Here are some of the treatments we offer:

✅ Advanced Diagnostics

• Digital X-rays, MRIs, and ultrasound imaging

• Movement and gait analysis

• Functional testing to assess range of motion and muscle imbalances

✅ Non-Surgical Treatments

• Physical therapy and rehabilitation programs

• Ultrasound-guided joint and soft tissue injections

• Anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving medications

• Regenerative therapies like PRP and stem cell injections

✅ Minimally Invasive Procedures

• Arthroscopy for joint repair

• Nerve blocks for targeted pain relief

• Spinal injections for sports-related back pain

✅ Post-Injury and Performance Care

• Customized recovery programs

• Strength and conditioning guidance

• Injury prevention coaching

• Return-to-play planning for athletes

When Should You See a Specialist?

Don’t wait until a minor ache becomes a major issue. You should see a sports injury specialist if you experience:

• Persistent pain that doesn’t improve with rest

• Swelling, instability, or joint locking

• Decreased range of motion or strength

• Recurrent injuries in the same area

• Difficulty performing your usual activities or sports

Early treatment not only shortens recovery time—it also reduces the risk of long-term damage.

Serving Athletes Across New Jersey

No matter where you are in North Jersey, you’re never far from expert orthopedic and sports injury care. Garden State Pain and Orthopedics proudly serves patients across five convenient locations: