Sports and activity injuries
Injuries happen to athletes and to people who are simply active at work or in the gym. Sprains, muscle tears and overuse problems are common, and proper assessment helps you return to activity safely.
Common symptoms
- Sudden pain during exercise or play
- Swelling or bruising around a joint or muscle
- A feeling of instability, for example a twisting ankle or knee
- Pain that builds up during activity and eases with rest
- Reduced strength or range of movement
Common causes
- Twisting or landing awkwardly
- Direct impact or collision
- Overuse and repeated strain
- Returning to activity too quickly after a break
- Inadequate warm-up or unsuitable footwear
When to see an orthopaedic doctor
- Pain or swelling that does not settle within a few days
- A joint that feels loose or gives way
- Pain that stops you from training or working
- Repeated injuries to the same area
Seek urgent care if you have
- Severe pain and inability to bear weight
- Obvious deformity of a joint or limb
- A heard or felt “pop” followed by rapid swelling
- Numbness or colour change in the limb
Go to the nearest emergency department. Do not wait for a clinic appointment.
What to expect at your consultation
- 01
Tell us your concern
Describe when it began, what makes it better or worse, and how it affects your day.
- 02
Examination
The doctor checks movement, strength, swelling and tenderness of the affected area.
- 03
Tests, only if needed
X-rays or other tests are suggested only when they will help decide the next step.
- 04
Discuss the plan
You will hear the likely cause, the options available and what to expect next.
Common questions
When can I get back to sport?
It depends on the injury and how it recovers. The doctor can advise on a safe, step-by-step return once the injury has been assessed.
Is a sprain the same as a fracture?
No, but they can feel similar. A sprain is a ligament injury and a fracture is a break in the bone, and sometimes an X-ray is needed to tell them apart.
This page is general health information. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace an examination by a doctor. Treatment depends on your individual situation.
Other guides
All conditionsKnee pain
Pain, swelling or stiffness around the knee, with or without a recent injury.
Read the guideHip pain
Pain in the groin, outer hip or buttock that affects walking, sitting or sleeping.
Read the guideBack pain
Pain in the lower or upper back, sometimes spreading into the leg.
Read the guideNeck pain
Neck stiffness or pain, sometimes with pain or tingling in the shoulder and arm.
Read the guide