Featured in Sports Illustrated June 2014
Sports medicine is a branch of orthopedics that employs treatment methods designed to quickly heal orthopedic injuries in athletes. Since sports are so competitive, athletes need treatment methods that will get them back in the game as soon as possible. Ligament tears in the ACL, rotator cuff tears, and tennis elbow are common injuries treated by sports medicine specialists. David Lent, MD treats injuries with a minimally invasive approach to promote quicker healing.
Knee Injuries
The knee is made up of three main bones: the thighbone (the femur), the shinbone (the tibia), and the kneecap (the patella). The thighbone connects to the shinbone in a hinge joint, and the kneecap sits in front, protecting the joint. Ligaments attach to the joint to provide support and stability. The Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) is located inside of the joint, limiting the knee's forward range of motion.
When the knee is stretched beyond its means, like when pivoting or landing from a jump, the ACL can tear. Those who suffer from ACL tears often report that they feel the ligament "snap" and then feel the knee give out from underneath them. This type of injury can cause intense pain and swelling, sidelining an athlete for weeks. Dr. Lent can treat ACL tears arthroscopically, using a minimally invasive technique that could allow an athlete to return to the field in a matter of weeks.
Shoulder Injuries
The shoulder is comprised of the collarbone (the clavicle), the shoulder blade (the scapula), and the upper arm bone (the humerus). The main joint in the shoulder is a ball and socket joint formed by the head of the upper arm bone and a socket in the shoulder blade. A tissue called the labrum lines the joint, deepening the socket. The rotator cuff is a set of four muscles that attach the upper arm bone to the shoulder blade, adding stability.
Repetitive arm motions during sports can wear down the labrum and rotator cuff, causing pain and decreased function in the joint. Over time, this damage can lead to osteoarthritis, which may eventually require joint replacement to restore joint function. Dr. Lent can repair shoulder injuries with minimally invasive procedures, using a smaller incision and resulting in a shorter recovery time.
Elbow Injuries
The elbow is made up of both a ball and socket joint and a hinge joint, allowing the elbow to bend and straighten as well as rotate the palm up and down. The joint is held in place by muscles, ligaments, and tendons.
Tennis elbow is a common athletic injury, particularly among those who play racquet sports. Tennis elbow occurs when a forearm muscle is weakened from overuse and begins to tear where it attaches at the elbow. This type of injury usually develops over time, with pain and weakness gradually increasing over weeks and months. This type of injury can often be treated without surgery, but can be treated arthroscopically if symptoms don't improve.
Advantages of Minimally Invasive Treatment for Sports Injuries
Sports medicine employs minimally invasive techniques like arthroscopy to ensure that the recovery process will be as quick as possible. Advantages of minimally invasive treatment include shorter recovery time, less scarring, less blood loss, and a smaller incision. Dr. Lent may recommend minimally invasive treatment techniques combined with physical therapy to allow an athlete to get back to the sport quickly and safely.
Sports Injury Treatment in Yonkers, NY
Southern Westchester Orthopedics and Sports Medicine is committed to providing the highest quality orthopedic care possible, using state-of-the-art techniques. To schedule an appointment, contact our office in Yonkers, NY, or book online.
