What Injuries Do Sports Medicine Doctors Treat At Urgent Care?
At Total Ortho Express, our sports medicine physicians treat acute injuries, like sprains, strains, fractures, and joint dislocations. We also manage common sports injuries such as concussions, tendonitis, and minor cuts. Other than that, our doctors treat muscle tears, rotator cuff tears,
broken bones, tennis elbow, and knee injuries.
To manage these conditions, we offer advanced on-site imaging and immediate treatment to reduce swelling and pain. Our specialists also offer bracing, splinting, and personalized injury-prevention guidance to help you stay active and avoid future injuries. Visit our urgent care for same-day treatment and get back to your sport safely.
How Sports Medicine Doctors Treat Sports Injuries at Urgent Care Clinics?
After a sports injury, our urgent care team focuses on stabilizing the injured area while relieving pain and reducing swelling. Depending on your injury, they may apply rigid or soft splints for fractures, knee braces for ligament sprains, or provide PRP injections to reduce inflammation and promote healing. Here are the common sports injuries that we treat at our urgent care clinic:
Shoulder Impingement
To treat this condition, our doctors first perform the Neer test to assess impingement and analyze your shoulder’s range of motion. According to a PubMed study, Neer’s test has a sensitivity of 79%. After that, our primary care physician may offer the following treatments:
- Subacromial corticosteroid injections
- Activity modification and ergonomic guidance
- Bracing or taping techniques
- Rotator cuff strengthening exercises
Shin Splints
According to a ResearchGate study of 116 players, 25.9% reported shin splints. To start your treatment, we examine your lower legs and review your running or training routine. Then, we provide targeted treatments such as supportive footwear or custom orthotic inserts to correct foot mechanics and compression shin sleeves to reduce strain on the tibialis muscles.
Cartilage Damage
We use MRI scans to check your damaged cartilage. During these scans, if we find damaged surfaces, we may provide targeted regenerative treatments such as:
- Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections to stimulate healing
- Hyaluronic acid injections to lubricate and cushion the joint
- Stem cell therapy to support cartilage repair
Ligament Tears and Joint Sprains
Our sports medicine providers assess ligament tears using a physical exam, X-rays, or an ultrasound. Based on your condition, we provide bracing, casting, PRP, and anti-inflammatory treatments to reduce swelling.
Bursitis
We treat bursitis by targeting inflammation in the affected bursa (commonly in the elbow, hip, or shoulder joint). To relieve pain and protect the joint, our doctors offer targeted bursa injections, protective padding, and cushioning.
Repetitive Strain Injuries
Our specialists treat repetitive strain injuries by pinpointing the exact muscles, tendons, or joints affected by overuse. After identifying the affected areas, we will provide targeted bracing or splints to support the joint and therapeutic taping to reduce strain.
Why Should You Visit Urgent Care for Sports Injuries?
You should visit our urgent care center for sports injuries because we provide prompt treatment to relieve pain, prevent further damage, and protect your joints. Other than that, our urgent care is cost-effective compared to regular emergency rooms. You receive the same specialized medical attention as in an ER, but with shorter wait times and lower costs.
To support your recovery, our urgent care offers additional services, including:
- Range of motion assessment to monitor healing and track progress.
- Analysis of biomechanical imbalances that could contribute to recurring injuries.
- Identification of overuse strain warning signs to prevent future problems.
- Sport-specific return-to-play plans for a safe and gradual resumption of activity.
How Do Sports Specialists Identify Chronic vs. Acute Injuries?
Our sports specialists at Total Ortho Express identify chronic and acute sports injuries through a detailed physical examination and advanced imaging tools. During a physical exam, we check for swelling, bruising, and joint stability. We also perform specific tests, depending on the injury type, such as the Lachman test (87% sensitivity) or Hawkins-Kennedy test (74% sensitivity), to assess ligaments, tendons, and muscles.
After that, we take a detailed history of your injury, including how it occurred, your physical activity level, and any previous injuries. This helps us identify the acute injuries from sudden trauma and chronic injuries caused by repetitive stress. Moreover, if needed, we use diagnostic tools, including X-rays, ultrasound imaging, and CT scans. Visit us today to get an accurate diagnosis.
Can a Sports Medicine Doctor Help With Back Pain From Workouts?
Yes, our sports medicine doctor can treat workout-related back pain by examining the muscles, ligaments, and spinal joints involved. They identify issues such as lumbar muscle strains, facet joint irritation, herniated discs, or sacroiliac joint dysfunction that often result from improper form, overtraining, or repetitive motions.
After assessment, our board-certified doctors provide targeted treatment for your back pain. This may include spinal decompression, core stabilization exercises, posture adjustments, and targeted spinal injections. These treatments help relieve back pain and prevent further injury.
What Pain Management Options Are Offered at Urgent Care for Sports Injuries?
At Total Ortho Express, we offer NSAIDs (such as ibuprofen or naproxen), muscle relaxants (including cyclobenzaprine or methocarbamol), and topical medications to help alleviate discomfort. For targeted relief in specific injured areas, we offer PRP (platelet-rich plasma) injections, which can promote tissue healing and reduce pain. Our orthopedic team may also recommend hyaluronic acid injections to lubricate joints, reduce friction, and relieve pain.
Can Orthopedic Urgent Care Handle Post-Injury Rehabilitation or Follow-Up Care?
Yes, our orthopedic urgent care team provides post-injury rehabilitation and follow-up care according to your specific injury. For example, after an ankle sprain, we focus on balance training, ankle strengthening, and gait correction. For a wrist fracture, our doctors’ guide thought on range-of-motion exercises, grip strengthening, and gradual load-bearing.
Additionally, we monitor your healing progress through regular checkups, assess joint mobility, and adjust treatment plans as needed. Our specialists also guide you through safe, progressive exercises such as:
- Ankle Alphabet Exercise: Trace the alphabet in the air with your foot to improve mobility
- Heel Raises: Rise onto your toes, hold 2 seconds, then lower; repeat 10–15 times.
- Wrist Flex/Extend: Bend wrist up and down, holding each for 15 seconds.
- Grip Ball Squeeze: Squeeze a soft ball for 5 seconds and release; repeat 10 times.
- Finger Lifts: Lift each finger from a flat surface for 2 seconds; repeat all fingers.
How Do Sports Medicine Doctors Coordinate With Orthopedic Surgeons?
If your injury is severe, such as an open fracture, a complete tendon rupture, or a multi-ligament knee tear, our sports medicine doctors immediately refer you to our orthopedic surgeons at Total Orthopedics & Sports Medicine. These injuries require precise surgical intervention to restore function, prevent long-term damage, and ensure proper healing.
To ensure a smooth transition, our sports medicine team coordinates with our orthopedic surgeons in advance and shares medical details and imaging results with the surgical team. Upon arrival, your surgeons will begin treatment immediately, which may include:
- Arthroscopic Surgery: Minimally invasive repair of joints to restore function and reduce recovery time.
- Ligament Reconstruction: Rebuilding torn ligaments, such as ACL or multi-ligament knee injuries, to stabilize the joint.
- Tendon Repair: Reattaching or repairing completely ruptured tendons to restore strength and mobility.
- Cartilage Restoration: Regenerating or replacing damaged cartilage to protect joint health and improve long-term function.
Visit Total Ortho Express For Same-Day Care After A Sports Injury!
Severe sports injuries, such as ligament tears, fractures, or tendon damage, can worsen quickly and may lead to chronic pain or delayed return to sports if left untreated. You may struggle with running, jumping, twisting, or even simple movements like bending and lifting. Moreover, if you are a professional athlete, these injuries may affect your performance, limit training, and potentially impact your career.
At Total Ortho Express, our doctors offer same-day treatment and diagnosis. We use splints, braces, regenerative medicine, and NSAIDs to manage pain and support healing. Our team also monitors your recovery, provides follow-up care, and ensures you return to sports safely. Visit our urgent care nearest to you in Syosset, Massapequa, Deer Park, or East Meadow.
FAQs
Does Urgent Care Treat Shin Splints From Running?
Yes, our urgent care treats shin splints from running with a clear, step-by-step approach. We begin by examining your leg to confirm it’s shin splints and not a stress fracture. Then, we use ice therapy and compression to reduce inflammation. We may also prescribe anti-inflammatory medication and recommend supportive footwear or custom orthotic inserts for better recovery.
Can Sports Medicine Urgent Care Treat a Muscle Strain?
Yes, at Total Ortho Express, we treat muscle strains. To start your treatment, we examine the injured area to assess swelling, bruising, and range of motion. If needed, we perform imaging to rule out a tear and a fracture. After diagnosis, our specialists provide non-surgical treatments such as bracing, NSAIDs, and corticosteroid injections to promote healing.
How Long Does It Take to Recover From a Sports Injury?
Most sports-related injuries heal within 1 to 6 weeks, depending on the severity of the injury. Minor sprains or strains typically recover within 1 to 2 weeks with proper rest and at-home care. However, moderate injuries may require 4 to 6 weeks, while severe muscle or ligament damage can take several months to heal.
Are Sports Medicine Visits at Urgent Care Covered by Insurance?
Yes, insurance typically covers sports medicine visits when they’re medically necessary. At Total Ortho Express, we accept most major insurance plans, including Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, and Cigna. We also accept Medicare Advantage, traditional Medicare, and military insurance plans such as TRICARE. To confirm coverage or copay details, you can contact our team before your visit.
How Soon Can I See a Sports Medicine Doctor at Urgent Care?
At our orthopedic urgent care, you can see our sports medicine doctor within 15 to 30 minutes. We offer same-day walk-in visits and extended hours to ensure quick, convenient care. Our team also provides on-site imaging and begins the medical care immediately to relieve intense pain and prevent further injury.
Can I Follow Up With the Same Sports Medicine Doctor After My Visit?
Yes, you can follow up with the same sports medicine doctor after you visit Total Ortho Express. We schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your healing, adjust treatment as needed, and guide your return to sports activities. During these visits, we assess your progress, update your exercise plan if necessary, and ensure you’re recovering safely and regaining full strength.
Can I Treat Minor Sports Injuries at Home?
Yes, you can treat minor sports injuries at home using the RICE method (rest, ice, compression, and elevation). You can also take over-the-counter pain medications (acetaminophen or ibuprofen) to help reduce pain and inflammation. Once pain improves, perform gentle stretching and movement to prevent stiffness and wear supportive braces or wraps to stabilize the affected area.
