After an injury. What next?

The goal of treatment of sports injuries must be restoration of function to the greatest possible degree in the shortest possible time. Initially this will require first aid treatment to decrease swelling, congestion and muscle spasm but it is equally important to minimise deconditioning of the rest of the body.

This article summarises the approach to minimising the effects of an acute injury in an athlete and maximising the chances for a full return to sport without incurring further injuries.

A good knowledge of anatomy is needed to make a specific diagnosis so a comprehensive treatment plan can be implemented. Treatment involves several options: immobilisation, NSAIDs, physiotherapy, surgery and rehabilitation. Rehabilitation, which should not wait until after the injury has healed, encompasses strength, flexibility, proprioception, endurance, motor relearning, aerobic fitness and sometimes counselling.