Diagnostic procedure of an injury begins with one’s medical history and a physical exam. X-rays may be ordered to examine bones for possible fractures, dislocations, and other injuries. A bone scan is a highly sensitive test that may detect stress fractures that might not show up in X-rays. Joint disorders, which are not detected by X-rays, may only be diagnosed by arthroscopy, ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
Arthroscopy employs a tiny camera inside a very small tube, called an arthroscope, to examine the interior of joints; it is useful in both diagnosing and repairing some joint injuries (for example, cartilage fragments can “be removed through the tube). Ultrasound scanning uses sound waves to generate an image that doctor can view on a screen. An MRI produces excellent images of soft tissues, enabling diagnosis of damages to muscles, ligaments and tendons.
1. For acute pain as a result of an AC separation, codeine may be prescribed for the first couple of days, Thereafter, aspirin and a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug may be taken for chronic pain, Physician may immobilize the injured area with a sling.
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2. If possible, the displaced bones of a dislocation are manipulated back into place. If this is not feasible, one may need surgery, after which the joint is immobilized until it is stable.
3. Treatment for sports injuries aims to relieve pain, repair or realign bones and restore your body to its full athletic ability.
4. If necessary, a fracture is treated reduction, a procedure in which the broken bone ends are manipulated so that they about each other in their original position. The procedure may be done surgically or without cutting the skin. More serious fractures are repositioned and held in place with metal pins or by screws, and rods placed permanently in or on the bone.
5. A march fracture is customarily treated by placing the foot in a plaster cast or rigid boot; one must rest it for 3-6 weeks.
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6. Most minor soft-tissue injuries are best treated with RICE: rest, ice, compression and elevation.
7. Injuries such as tendinitis and plantar fascitis usually require rest and a rehabilitation program to maintain flexibility and strength. Aspirin or ibuprofen may help reduce the pain and inflammation that accompany these conditions.
8. Depending on the severity of the pain, physician may treat epicondylitis with an injection of a corticosteroid, with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) such as ibuprofen, or with aspirin. An elbow cuff and physical therapy may also be indicated.