Strains, sprains and overuse aches can pull you away from the sports and workouts you enjoy. At HealthSource Chiropractic of Roseland, sports injury treatment starts with a careful exam, so your care fits your body and your goals. Dr. Jenna Patel, D.C., has extra training in sports injury rehab and movement analysis.
Our aim is to help you move well again and return to activity at a pace that makes sense. Below, we explain the injuries we see, how we evaluate them and what care may include. We also cover when a medical doctor is the right first stop.
Common sports injuries we see
Most sports injuries fall into two groups. Some happen in a moment, such as a rolled ankle or a pulled muscle. Others build slowly because you repeat the same motion again and again. We see active adults from Roseland and nearby towns with problems like these:
- Muscle strains, such as a pulled hamstring or calf
- Sprains, like a rolled ankle on a run or a twisted knee
- Overuse aches from running, golf, pickleball or heavy gym days
- Stiffness in the back, hips or shoulders that limits your swing or stride
Pain in one area can also start somewhere else. For example, a sore knee may connect to how your hip or foot moves. That is why we look at the whole chain of movement, not only the spot that hurts. You can read more on our hip and knee pain and foot and ankle pain pages.
How Dr. Patel approaches sports injury treatment
Every plan begins with an evaluation. First, Dr. Patel asks how the injury happened, what makes it better or worse and which activities matter most to you. Next, she checks your posture, mobility and pain. We take X-rays on site only if they are clinically needed.
Her extra training in movement analysis helps here. In simple terms, she looks at how you move to spot patterns that may add strain. Then she explains her findings and a personalized care plan before any care starts. That way, you can ask questions and decide what feels right for you.
What sports injury treatment may include
Your plan depends on your injury, your sport and your goals. Dr. Patel combines hands-on care with exercise, so you build support as you recover. Depending on your exam, care may include:
- Chiropractic adjustments, which may help stiff joints move better
- Soft tissue work on tight or overworked muscles
- Kinesiology taping, which may offer support during activity
- Class IV laser therapy, when it suits your case
- Guided exercise to rebuild strength, balance and control
- Orthotic care if your feet play a part in the problem
Exercise is a key part of recovery. Our Progressive Rehab® and functional exercise program builds step by step, so you move ahead only when your body seems ready. As a result, the strength you gain may carry over to your sport and to daily life.
Getting back to your sport
Most active people want to know one thing: when can I play again? The honest answer depends on the injury, how it responds to care and how your body handles each step. So rather than pick a date up front, we let your progress guide the return.
In general, a gradual return to activity follows steps like these:
- Protect the injured area while the pain settles.
- Restore motion in stiff joints and tight muscles.
- Build strength and control with guided exercise.
- Add sport movements, like a light jog, easy swings or short rallies.
- Return to full activity when your body handles each step well.
Good sports injury treatment does not stop when the pain fades. Instead, it also looks at the habits and movement patterns that may have led to the problem.
When to see an orthopedist or go to the ER
Some injuries need a medical doctor first. Go to the ER or see a doctor right away if you notice any of these signs:
- A bone or joint that looks out of place
- Trouble putting any weight on the leg or using the arm
- A loud pop followed by fast swelling
- New numbness, tingling or weakness
- Headache, confusion or dizziness after a hit to the head
An orthopedist, or orthopedic doctor, may be the right choice if a joint keeps giving way or swelling keeps coming back. The same goes for pain that gets worse instead of better. If your exam shows signs that need medical care, we will tell you and suggest you see a medical doctor.
For more background, NIAMS has a clear guide to sports injuries and when to call a doctor. MedlinePlus also explains the difference between sprains and strains. This page is for education only and is not a diagnosis.
Is sports injury treatment right for you?
Chiropractic care is not right for every injury, and that is okay. Dr. Patel evaluates each case and explains your options in plain language. You will hear what she suggests and why before any care starts.
Booking your visit
Our office is at 12 Eisenhower Parkway, Suite 1, in the Downtowne At Roseland complex. Ask about our new-patient visit: consultation, exam and X-rays if clinically needed. The offer is for new patients only. It does not apply to Medicare, Medicaid, other federal healthcare program patients or ACN members.
You can book online or call us at (973) 200-2424.