Sports medicine is a field of healthcare focused on addressing injuries related to athletic activities. Professionals in this field diagnose, treat, and manage physical conditions resulting from sports and exercise. The goal is to support the body’s natural healing processes and help individuals resume their normal activities. Here is information about innovative techniques in sports medicine:
Stem Cell Therapy
Stem cell therapy is a procedure that utilizes stem cells. These cells have the capacity to develop into various specialized cell types within the body. In a clinical setting, stem cells are typically sourced from the patient’s own body, often from the bone marrow or fat tissue.
Medical professionals typically collect the stem cells, concentrate them in a lab, and then inject them into the injured area. The introduction of these cells to a specific site is intended to support the body’s own repair mechanisms. This treatment may help a range of conditions, including joint pain, ligament tears, and muscle injuries.
Platelet-rich Plasma
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy involves using a concentrated dose of a patient’s own platelets. To begin the procedure, the patient draws a blood sample. They place the sample into a centrifuge, a machine that spins at high speed to separate the blood into its different components.
This process isolates platelets and plasma, creating a concentrated liquid known as PRP. The plasma contains a higher concentration of platelets than normal blood. Practitioners then inject the PRP directly into the injury site.
They use this technique to treat various soft tissue injuries affecting tendons and ligaments. This approach promotes healing by stimulating tissue regeneration and reducing inflammation in the affected area. Patients often experience significant improvements in pain and mobility after treatment.
Amnion Injections
Amnion injections utilize amniotic tissue, which is sourced from the amniotic sac. This tissue contains components like growth factors or hyaluronic acid. In sports medicine clinics, practitioners process the amniotic tissue into an injectable form. Doctors administer the injection to the area of injury or inflammation. This treatment is another option some providers use when addressing joint and soft tissue conditions.
MLS Laser Therapy
Multiwave locked system (MLS) Laser Therapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses specific wavelengths of light. The technology delivers controlled light energy to the targeted tissue. A robotic device delivers light energy, which penetrates the skin to reach the affected cells and structures below. Patients undergoing this therapy typically do not feel any sensation during the session.
Shockwave Therapy
Shockwave therapy, also known as Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy (ESWT), is a non-invasive treatment that uses acoustic waves. During a session, a handheld device is placed on the skin over the injured area. This device delivers a series of high-energy sound waves to the tissue.
The application of these waves is intended to stimulate metabolic activity and support the body’s healing response. Shockwave therapy is often used to treat chronic conditions, such as plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendinopathy, where other approaches may have been ineffective.
Schedule Sports Medicine Treatments
Navigating recovery from a sports injury involves exploring different treatment avenues. Modern sports medicine offers several innovative techniques designed to support the body’s natural healing process. Discussing these possibilities with a qualified sports medicine provider will help you understand what might be appropriate for your specific situation. If you are dealing with a sports-related injury and want to learn more, schedule a consultation with a foot and ankle doctor today.
