If you're an active individual, you're probably no stranger to sprains and strains. Some sports injuries are relatively minor and only require rest and over-the-counter pain medication to treat. Others are far more serious and necessitate the assistance of a sports medicine specialist for effective, thorough treatment. This guide explains how to identify serious sports injuries and when to seek medical assistance. 

When to Seek Emergency Care for an Injury

Sports injuries can affect just about every area of the body, especially when participating in high-impact activities. They can also be chronic or acute. Chronic injuries result from repeated movements, which can aggravate joints and other bodily structures. Acute injuries occur suddenly and usually result from some kind of force or impact. 

For instance, a blow to the head almost always requires emergency medical care, even if it's just for evaluation. Concussions can result in numerous symptoms, including confusion, drowsiness, vomiting, or loss of consciousness. There is no way to determine the severity of a head injury without a medical evaluation, so you must seek care immediately. The same is true of broken bones, which can cause significant discomfort when putting pressure on the affected limb. 

When to Seek Help From a Sports Medicine Clinic

Even if you don't require immediate treatment, serious injuries should be assessed by medical staff to determine the scope and severity. You can evaluate the severity by judging the level of pain you're experiencing. If you use home therapies like ice packs and rest, but find that the pain is not going away or is getting worse, schedule an appointment with a medical professional as soon as possible. 

Range of motion is another factor to consider. Swelling is common after an injury, but it should improve after a few days of home treatment. If you're unable to move the affected limb at all or find that the range of motion is decreasing, it's a clear sign that you need medical care. Tingling and numbness in the area must also be taken seriously, as it indicates nerve damage. 

When in search of trusted sports medicine in Lancaster, CA, AVORS Medical Group is the natural choice. This multi-faceted pain management clinic provides a wide range of treatments for patients, including surgical care. With four practioners of sports medicine on staff, you can rest assured of a timely appointment. Along with their skill and knowledge, you'll also be amazed by their kind and compassionate care. Visit the website to learn more about treatments for sports injuries. You can also call (661) 726-5005 to schedule an appointment today.