What is Up with Your Aches Strains and Pains
Nagging aches, sore muscles, and minor injuries are common, but they don't have to slow you down. Learn what may be causing your pain and when it's time to seek care.
Many people may be jumping back into a workout routine with both feet, joining a friendly game at a barbecue or dusting off the gardening tools and heading outside. When activity starts to pick up, it’s important to pay attention to any painful warning signs from your body.
Luckily, MetroHealth’s sports medicine team is adding additional doctors and athletic trainers to increase your access to top notch care for common athletic injuries.
Some of the injuries Laurel Beverley, MD and her team routinely see include:
- Patellofemoral knee pain, which is pain arising around your kneecap from repeatedly bending your knees while squatting, jumping or climbing stairs. Physical therapy can relieve symptoms.
- Shoulder tendonitis, a swelling of the tendons in the shoulder. This injury can result from lifting weights overhead or lifting heavy items on the job. Resting and icing the shoulder and taking anti-inflammatory medications can relieve pain. Physical therapy and steroid injections are next steps.
- Biceps strain, a partial tear of the muscle in the front portion of the upper arm. This can occur in people who lift heavy weights or have a job that requires heavy physical labor. Rest, ice and physical therapy are common treatments.
- Knee swelling and instability, which can occur with normal wear and tear of joint cartilage as you age. Rest, ice, compression and elevation (the RICE regimen) can relieve symptoms. Physical therapy and steroid injections can also help.
- Sprained ankle, which occurs when the ligaments supporting the ankle stretch and tear. The RICE regimen can help relieve pain. In some cases, immobilizing with a cast or even surgery may be necessary.
Whether you need physical therapy, injection therapy, or the latest minimally invasive surgical treatments, MetroHealth Sports Medicine program has you covered. These services are available to children and adults, as well as high school, adult recreational and professional level sports teams.
Sports Medicine
If you have a sports or activity-related injury, MetroHealth sports medicine specialists can help. To schedule an appointment, call 216-957-SPORT. For more information, visit metrohealth.org/sports-medicine.
Low Impact, High Reward
If you’re looking to start an exercise routine, the outdoors is a great place to start. These low-impact activities are easy and fun.
- Hike in the Metroparks, which has trails of all skill levels
- Take a bike ride; adult tricycles are especially comfortable and easy to use
- Play catch at the park with the family
- Do yoga in the backyard
Your Questions Answered
Q. What's the difference between a strain and a sprain?
A. A strain happens when a muscle or tendon is stretched or torn. A sprain happens when a ligament, which connects bones, is stretched or torn.
Q. When should I see a doctor for muscle or joint pain?
A. See a doctor if your pain is severe, lasts more than a few days, keeps coming back, or is causing swelling, weakness, numbness, or trouble moving.
Q. How can I prevent aches, strains, and pains?
A. Stay active, warm up before exercise, use proper form when lifting, stretch regularly, and listen to your body when it needs rest.