Sports Medicine Singapore | Sports Injury Clinic in Singapore

Sports medicine doctors and orthopaedic specialists are commonly consulted for sports injuries. Sports doctors focus on diagnosis, rehabilitation, and non-surgical treatments, while orthopaedic specialists manage more complex cases, including surgical repair if required. Both work with physiotherapists and other allied health professionals to support recovery and long-term performance.

Recovery difficulty depends on the type and severity of the injury. Serious injuries such as anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears, Achilles tendon ruptures, and spinal injuries often involve long rehabilitation and may not restore full pre-injury function. Factors such as age, general health, and adherence to rehabilitation also influence outcomes. Consulting a sports doctor or orthopaedic specialist can help assess recovery expectations and guide treatment based on your case.

There is no single best treatment for all sports injuries, as management depends on the type and severity of the injury. Common approaches include physiotherapy, exercise rehabilitation, supportive devices, medications, and in some cases, injection-based treatments or surgery. Early assessment helps prevent complications and improves recovery outcomes. If you are experiencing an injury or persistent pain or discomfort, it is best to consult an orthopaedic specialist or sports doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Five common sports injuries include ankle sprains, knee ligament injuries, muscle strains, tennis elbow, and shin splints. These injuries often result from sudden trauma, overuse, or repetitive stress on joints and soft tissues. Early evaluation supports targeted management and helps reduce the risk of chronic problems. If you experience joint instability, muscle pain, persistent elbow discomfort, or shin pain during activity, it is best to seek medical attention for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Contact sports such as rugby, football, and martial arts tend to have higher rates of severe injuries due to collisions and physical impact. Serious injuries may include ligament tears, fractures, and concussions, while catastrophic injuries, though rare, can involve the head, neck, or spine. The severity and long-term effects vary between individuals and sports.

Sports injuries can take anywhere from a few days to several months to heal, depending on the type, severity, and the individual’s overall health. Minor sprains or strains may recover quickly with rest and rehabilitation, while fractures, ligament tears, or tendon injuries often require longer recovery periods. Early assessment helps prevent complications and supports better outcomes. If you are injured, it is advisable to consult a sports doctor or orthopaedic specialist to understand your expected recovery timeline.

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen or naproxen, are commonly used to relieve pain and reduce inflammation after sports injuries. They can help manage symptoms in the short term, but prolonged use should be monitored for potential side effects on the stomach, kidneys, or heart. In some cases, topical NSAIDs or other treatments may be recommended instead. It is advisable to consult your doctor before starting or continuing any anti-inflammatory medication.

Ice is generally recommended in the first 48 hours after an acute sports injury to reduce pain and swelling, while heat may be more useful later to ease muscle stiffness and improve blood flow. The choice depends on the type and timing of the injury, as applying the wrong method may worsen symptoms. Always follow the advice of your sports doctor or physiotherapist to ensure the most appropriate approach for your recovery.

Medications commonly used for sports injuries include non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to reduce pain and swelling, simple analgesics such as paracetamol, and occasionally muscle relaxants for severe spasms. In selected cases, corticosteroid or platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections may be recommended for targeted relief. The choice depends on the nature and severity of the injury.

A sprain refers to injury of a ligament, the tissue that connects bones and stabilises joints, whereas a strain involves overstretching or tearing of muscles or tendons. Both can cause pain, swelling, and reduced function, but they affect different structures and may require slightly different approaches to treatment and rehabilitation.

Pain severity varies between individuals, but injuries such as fractures, dislocations, anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears, and Achilles tendon ruptures are often described as especially painful. The intensity of pain can also depend on the injury site, personal pain threshold, and whether nerves are involved. While some injuries cause sudden severe pain, others may lead to persistent discomfort that affects daily life. If you are experiencing severe or persistent pain, it is advisable to seek medical attention for proper assessment and management.