Ankle sprains, knee ligament (such as ACL) or meniscus tears, dislocated shoulders and muscle strains are common in football, cricket and running. A timely assessment helps plan a safe return to sport.
Common symptoms
- A 'pop' or sudden sharp pain at the moment of injury
- Swelling that comes up quickly
- A knee or ankle that feels unstable, or pain when bearing weight
When to see a doctor
- You can't bear weight, or the joint looks out of shape
- Swelling and pain don't settle within a few days
- The joint keeps slipping out or feels like it locks
How it is evaluated
- How the injury happened, and a physical examination
- X-ray or MRI when needed
- Rest, physiotherapy, a brace or, when needed, surgery discussed as options
Emergency: after a serious accident, a suspected fracture with deformity, heavy bleeding, numbness or loss of movement, go to the nearest hospital emergency department immediately.