In the realm of sports medicine, distinguishing between acute and chronic injuries is crucial for effective treatment and recovery. Dr. J.P. Delaney, a specialist in upper extremity surgery at Summit Orthopedics, sheds light on these two common types of sports injuries.

What is an Acute Sports Injury?

An acute sports injury occurs suddenly and is often the result of a specific incident. This could be due to a collision, an awkward twist, or an improper landing. According to Dr. Delaney, the most frequent types of acute injuries include:

• Bone fractures
• Ligament tears
• Tendon ruptures

When an acute injury happens, the signs are typically immediate and unmistakable. Athletes often report hearing a “pop” or feeling a tearing sensation, accompanied by pain, swelling, or bruising.

Diagnosis and Treatment of Acute Injuries

It’s essential to seek medical evaluation for acute injuries promptly—ideally within the first week. Treatment approaches may vary based on the injury’s severity, but initial steps usually include an X-ray and thorough assessment. Dr. Delaney emphasizes the importance of timely intervention: “If surgery is required, addressing it quickly is critical for proper alignment of bones and ligaments, maximizing the athlete’s chances of a swift return to play.” Comprehensive recovery planning should be part of the discussion with a sports medicine professional.

What Are Chronic Sports Injuries?

Chronic sports injuries, in contrast, develop gradually over time. Many athletes experience persistent aches or stiffness—like a pitcher with shoulder pain or a runner with knee discomfort. These injuries typically result from overuse and can include conditions such as:

• Tendinitis
• Rotator cuff injuries

According to Dr. Delaney, chronic injuries often arise when a joint or tendon is subjected to excessive strain repeatedly, leading to wear and tear. Even untreated acute injuries can evolve into chronic issues if not managed correctly.

Treatment Strategies for Chronic Injuries

Chronic injuries require a different approach. Treatment is usually less urgent, allowing for a range of non-surgical options such as physical therapy, rest, ice, compression, elevation (RICE), and anti-inflammatory medications. Dr. Delaney notes, “We have the flexibility to explore various treatments before considering surgery, which allows us to target the underlying causes of pain effectively.”

Even if surgical intervention is deemed necessary, the timeline can be adjusted to ensure optimal conditions for recovery, focusing on understanding the injury thoroughly before proceeding with any invasive procedures.

Your Partner in Sports Medicine

At Summit Orthopedics, our dedicated team of fellowship-trained sports medicine physicians is committed to providing expert care to help you return to your favorite activities safely and efficiently. Whether you’re dealing with an acute or chronic injury, we’re here to support you every step of the way.

To learn more about our services or to schedule an appointment, please reach out to us directly.