Sports Injuries: When to Seek Medical Attention

Sports injuries

Hello! I am currently in the ninth grade.
During a physical education class in the second semester of the eighth grade, I felt discomfort in the back of my left thigh while walking.
I later saw a doctor who suggested it might be a strain.
I haven't had proper rehabilitation since then, and the pain has increasingly become sharp, affecting my walking.
A few days ago, after sprinting, I felt tightness and sharp pain, and walking was very painful.
This lasted for about three to four days, but on the fifth day, the sharp pain suddenly disappeared, although I still feel tightness, and stretching still causes sharp pain.
Should I seek medical attention urgently? Why did the sharp pain suddenly stop?
Additionally, I have been experiencing instability in my left ankle, with pain in certain areas and sharp pain in my heel (which worsens after running).
Both the Achilles tendon and the tibialis anterior feel tight, and there is a painful spot in the back of my calf.
After running, my Achilles tendon feels extremely tight, and this has been ongoing for a year.
What could be the issue?
On my right ankle, there have been a few instances while long jumping where I felt a popping sensation and heard a sound.
After landing, I experience pain for about a minute, making it difficult to walk, but the pain subsides after that minute.
Should I seek medical attention for this?
Lastly, after playing basketball, I experienced sharp pain extending from my little finger down my left arm, and my wrist feels weak.
However, if I press on the painful area, the weakness goes away.
Could this be a triangular fibrocartilage injury? I need to prepare for exams, but I hope to understand my condition first.
Thank you!

Irean, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/04/28

Dr. Wang Zhaomin reply Rehabilitation

Sometimes, acute pain can transition into chronic symptoms, and the intensity of the pain may decrease.
If there is still discomfort, although not urgent, it is advisable to seek medical attention.
Ankle injuries may affect surrounding muscles, ligaments, and other soft tissues, leading to feelings of tightness or instability.
There are numerous causes of wrist pain, and a tear of the triangular fibrocartilage is indeed one possible reason.
Each individual's condition is different, and an accurate assessment can only be made through an in-person examination.
Online consultations cannot replace an actual medical visit.
Please consult an orthopedic or rehabilitation specialist for a proper diagnosis and to arrange appropriate treatment.

Reply Date: 2021/04/28

More Info

It sounds like you are experiencing a range of sports-related injuries, and it's important to address these issues properly to prevent further complications. Let's break down your concerns and provide some guidance on when to seek medical attention, as well as some general advice on managing sports injuries.

Understanding Your Symptoms
1. Left Thigh Pain: You mentioned experiencing discomfort in your left thigh after physical activity, which was initially diagnosed as a possible strain. The fact that you felt a sudden relief from the stabbing pain after a few days could indicate that your body is healing, but the tightness and pain during stretching suggest that the injury may not be fully resolved. Muscle strains can take time to heal, and without proper rehabilitation, they can lead to chronic issues. If the pain persists or worsens, it would be wise to consult a healthcare professional, such as a physical therapist or sports medicine doctor, who can provide a tailored rehabilitation program.

2. Left Ankle Instability and Pain: The instability and pain in your left ankle, especially after running, could be a sign of a sprain or even a more serious condition like tendonitis. The Achilles tendon and the muscles in the front of your shin (anterior tibialis) being tight could indicate overuse or improper biomechanics during your activities. If the pain continues, or if you experience swelling or difficulty walking, seeking medical attention is advisable. A healthcare provider can assess your ankle and recommend appropriate treatments, which may include rest, ice, compression, elevation (RICE), and possibly physical therapy.

3. Right Ankle Pain After Jumping: The "popping" sensation and subsequent pain you feel in your right ankle after jumping could be indicative of an ankle sprain or even a ligament injury. If the pain resolves quickly, it may not be severe, but if you continue to experience discomfort or instability, it’s important to get it evaluated. Persistent symptoms could lead to chronic instability if not addressed.

4. Left Arm Pain After Basketball: The pain and weakness in your left arm, particularly in the area extending from your little finger, could suggest a nerve issue or a soft tissue injury, such as a sprain or strain. The fact that pressure alleviates the weakness could indicate that the pain is related to nerve compression or irritation. If this pain persists, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional to rule out any serious conditions, such as a triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC) injury.

When to Seek Medical Attention
You should consider seeking medical attention if:
- You experience severe pain that does not improve with rest and home care.

- There is significant swelling, bruising, or deformity in the affected area.

- You have difficulty bearing weight on the injured limb.

- You notice persistent instability in your joints.

- Symptoms do not improve after a few days of self-care.

General Advice for Managing Sports Injuries
1. Rest and Recovery: Allow your body time to heal. Avoid activities that exacerbate your pain.

2. Ice Therapy: Apply ice to the injured areas for 15-20 minutes every few hours to reduce swelling and pain.

3. Compression and Elevation: Use elastic bandages to compress swollen areas and elevate them to minimize swelling.

4. Gentle Stretching and Strengthening: Once the acute pain subsides, gentle stretching and strengthening exercises can help restore function. A physical therapist can guide you through this process.

5. Gradual Return to Activity: When you start feeling better, gradually return to your activities. Avoid jumping back into intense sports without proper conditioning.

Conclusion
In summary, while some of your symptoms may resolve on their own, it is crucial to monitor them closely. If you experience persistent pain, instability, or any new symptoms, seeking medical attention is the best course of action. A healthcare professional can provide a thorough evaluation and develop a personalized treatment plan to help you recover fully and safely return to your activities. Remember, taking care of your body now can prevent more significant issues in the future. Good luck with your studies and your recovery!

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