To confirm the diagnosis and evaluate the extent of the injury, the following imaging tests may be recommended:
Identifies the location and extent of bone and cartilage damage.
Provides detailed cross-sectional images, especially useful for evaluating bony injuries.
Uses magnets and radio waves to create 3D images, assessing damage to ligaments, tendons, and muscles without ionizing radiation.
A minimally invasive procedure where a thin scope with a camera is inserted into the joint for inspection and potential treatment, typically done as an inpatient.
For mild to moderate injuries, the RICE method—Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation—is a common first-line treatment. This approach helps reduce swelling, alleviate pain, and support the healing process for strains, sprains, and minor ligament injuries.
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen and naproxen are often prescribed to manage pain and inflammation. These medications are particularly useful for conditions like tendonitis, bursitis, or soft tissue injuries.
A vital part of recovery, physiotherapy involves personalized exercise programs to strengthen muscles around the injured area, improve flexibility, and enhance joint stability. It’s beneficial for recovering from tendon injuries, sprains, and post-surgical rehabilitation.
Corticosteroid and hyaluronic acid (lubricant) injections may be used for pain relief and to reduce inflammation, especially in chronic sports injuries like tendinitis or early-stage osteoarthritis.
This minimally invasive procedure is used to treat sports injuries with quicker recovery times. Surgeons use an arthroscope— a small camera—along with specialized instruments to access and treat joint issues such as torn meniscus or cartilage damage.
Robotic-assisted surgical techniques offer enhanced precision during knee surgeries. This advanced technology ensures more accurate procedures, leading to faster recovery and better outcomes.
This procedure is focused on repairing or reconstructing damaged ligaments, commonly performed using arthroscopic methods for injuries such as torn ACLs. Small incisions are made to insert a camera and surgical tools.
In cases of severe ligament damage, such as a torn ACL, reconstruction surgery replaces the damaged ligament with a graft, helping restore stability to the knee and prevent future injuries, often recommended for athletes.
For advanced sports injuries, particularly in cases of severe joint damage or degenerative conditions, total or partial knee replacement may be necessary. A total replacement involves replacing the entire joint with artificial components, while partial replacement addresses only the damaged part of the knee.
If you experience ongoing pain that doesn’t improve with rest or at-home treatments, it may be time to consult a specialist.
Significant swelling, bruising, or stiffness around the injured area, particularly after physical activity, can indicate a serious sports injury.
Struggling to bend, straighten, or bear weight on the injured joint may suggest a more severe injury that requires professional evaluation.
If you sustain a sports-related injury, particularly one involving a sudden twist, impact, or fall, and experience swelling or instability, seeking specialized care is important for proper recovery.
Signs like joint stiffness, swelling, and a reduced range of motion can be symptoms of sports injuries such as tendinitis or early arthritis, requiring expert treatment to prevent further damage.
As a specialist in sports injuries, Dr. Sean Leo provides expert evaluation and treatment for a range of conditions, including acute sports injuries, joint instability, and degeneration. Each patient undergoes a comprehensive assessment, which forms the foundation for a personalized recovery plan that may include diagnostics, treatment strategies, rehabilitation, and a monitored return to activity for optimal outcomes.
Dr. Sean Leo offers a wide range of treatment options, from non-surgical management and physiotherapy to minimally invasive procedures and, when necessary, joint reconstruction or replacement. The approach focuses on patient-centered care, combining clinical expertise with education, goal-setting, and ongoing support, aimed at restoring optimal function and health.
Early intervention is essential for the effective treatment of sports injuries. With the right care, most individuals can expect significant improvements in function and comfort.
For consultations related to sports injuries and musculoskeletal conditions, Dr. Sean Leo’s clinic in Singapore provides thorough assessments to support your recovery journey.
Dr Sean Leo
Orthopaedic Surgeon Singapore
Specialized Expertise in
Knee & Sports Care
Commitment to
Evidence-Based Practice
Compassionate Care for
Patient Well-Being