Q&A with Dr. Christopher George of ValleyOrtho: Common fall sports injuries and how to prevent them (Part 2)
- Category: Orthopedics, ValleyOrtho
- Posted On:
1. What does recovery typically look like for injuries like ACL tears, ankle sprains, or stress fractures?
Recovery certainly varies for common injuries that we see with fall sports. An ankle sprain may only sideline an athlete for a short amount of time but can take several weeks for full recovery of strength and coordination. Bracing and taping can help athletes return to activity. A stress fracture typically requires a full shut down of activity to allow the bone to heal. This may even involve casting or bracing of the affected area and a period of limited weightbearing. In rare situations stress fractures may require surgery if it’s in an area at high risk of displacement, such as a femoral neck stress fracture. When the athlete is pain free with normal walking, they may begin a gradual progression back to activity. ACL tears are almost always treated surgically to reconstruct that ACL to restore normal knee stability and biomechanics. This is typically a season-ending injury with recovery from ACL tears often being six to nine months after surgery and full recovery often taking up to one year. Physical therapy is imperative in ACL recovery and can be a useful option with many other types of injury as well.
2. Is it true women are more prone to ACL tears, and if so, how should they train differently to prevent injury?
Unfortunately, we do see a higher rate of ACL tears in females, with the highest rates seen in teenage females. This is due to many factors, including strength, coordination and jumping/landing mechanics. There are validated training programs that reduce the risk of ACL tears in both females and males. The training focuses on core and gluteal strength as well as muscle coordination. Jump and landing training is another integral part of injury prevention training. Landing with the knee inside of the ankle significantly increases risk of an ACL tear compared to landing in a more neutral position. One specific program is FIFA 11+ which was developed by an international group of physicians and physical therapists that requires no special equipment and can be completed in 10-15 minutes. Studies have shown a 30 percent decrease in ACL tear rates with consistent use of this training program.
3. Tell us about concussion protocol for young athletes. What should parents look out for in their young athletes if they suspect concussion and how are concussions treated on the sidelines?
Any signs, symptoms or concern for concussion warrant an immediate disqualification from practice or game. A direct head injury raises suspicion but not every head injury results in a concussion. Immediate sideline testing can rule in concussion. The athletic trainers are extremely well trained in recognizing and diagnosing concussion and are relied on as the front line of evaluation. If an athlete is diagnosed with a concussion, resting the brain is the most important step in recovery. Resting and removing stimulus (phones, tablets, music, etc.) is important in the initial recovery. Return to sport is dependent on resolution of symptoms and passing certain evaluations. Preseason neurologic testing is done in many sports and testing back to baseline level is an important part of return to activity. In more severe situations referral for formal neurology evaluation may be recommended. Complete resolution of symptoms is critical to minimize risk of recurrent concussion with return to activity.