When a ligament is stretched or torn, it is called a sprain. When a muscle or tendon is stretched or torn, it is called a strain. Both types of injuries can be caused by overuse, trauma, or repetitive motions.

Immediate care for a sprain or strain includes rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE). More severe sprains and strains might require physical therapy or surgery.

A shoulder dislocation occurs when the ball-shaped head of the upper arm bone (humerus) pops out of the socket in the shoulder blade (scapula). This can be a very painful injury that requires immediate medical attention.

Treatment for a shoulder dislocation typically involves a closed reduction (putting the head of the humerus back into the socket) and immobilizing the joint. Ice and rehabilitation exercises may also be recommended. Surgery may be necessary to repair damage to the ligaments or muscles around the shoulder joint.

An elbow dislocation occurs when the bone in the lower arm (ulna) pops out of place at the elbow joint. It can happen as a result of a fall or a direct blow to the elbow.

Treatment for an elbow dislocation typically involves putting the bone back into place (closed reduction) and immobilizing the joint. Physical therapy may also be recommended to help regain strength and range of motion in the elbow. Surgery is rarely necessary.

The patella is the small bone at the front of the knee. A patellar dislocation occurs when this bone pops out of place. It can be caused by a fall, direct blow, or sudden change in direction.

Putting the patella back into place (closed reduction) is the first step in treatment. The joint may then be immobilized in a splint or brace. Physical therapy may also be recommended to help regain strength and range of motion in the knee. Surgery is rarely necessary.

The acromioclavicular (AC) joint is the joint between the collarbone (clavicle) and the shoulder blade (scapula). An AC joint dislocation occurs when the clavicle pops out of place. It can happen as a result of a fall or a direct blow to the shoulder.

Treatment for an AC joint dislocation typically involves immobilizing the joint in a sling or splint. Surgery may be necessary to repair damage to the ligaments around the joint.

Fractures of the ankle can happen as a result of a fall, direct blow, or twisting injury.

Treatment for an ankle fracture typically involves immobilizing the joint in a cast or splint. Surgery may be necessary to repair the bone. Physical therapy may also be recommended to help regain strength and range of motion in the ankle.

In the event of a foot fracture, it is best to seek medical attention as soon as possible.

Treatment for a foot fracture typically involves immobilizing the joint in a cast or splint. Surgery may be necessary to repair the bone. Physical therapy may also be recommended to help regain strength and range of motion in the ankle.

Elbow fractures can happen as a result of a fall, direct blow, or twisting injury. The most common type of elbow fracture is a fracture of the upper arm bone (humerus).

Treatment for an elbow fracture typically involves immobilizing the joint in a cast or splint. Surgery may be necessary to repair the bone. Physical therapy may also be recommended to help regain strength and range of motion in the elbow.

If you think you have a wrist fracture, it is important to seek medical attention right away. External or internal fixations may be required to stabilize the bone. In the case of crushed or shattered bones, surgery may be necessary.

This syndrome is a general term used to describe pain in the front of the knee. It can be caused by a variety of factors, such as overuse, injury, or arthritis.

Treatment for patellofemoral pain syndrome typically involves a combination of rest, ice, and physical therapy. Surgery is rarely necessary.

The clavicle is the bone that runs between the shoulder and the neck. Fractures of the clavicle are relatively common, particularly in young athletes. In these instances, surgery is sometimes required to repair the bone. Plates and screws may be used to stabilize the bone.

The ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) is a major ligament in the knee. A tear of this ligament typically occurs with a sudden twisting motion. Symptoms include knee pain, swelling, and instability.

Treatment for an ACL tear may involve immobilizing the joint in a brace and physical therapy to help regain strength and range of motion. In more severe cases, surgery may be necessary to repair the ligament. Surgery typically involves reconstructing the ligament with tissue from elsewhere in the body. Following surgery, physical therapy is typically recommended to help increase strength and range of motion.

The meniscus is a piece of cartilage that acts as a cushion between the bones in the knee joint. A meniscus tear typically occurs as a result of an injury or due to wear and tear over time. Symptoms include pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the knee joint.

Treatment for meniscus tears involves rest, ice, and physical therapy to help regain strength and range of motion in the knee. Surgery is occasionally necessary to repair or remove the damaged cartilage. After surgery, physical therapy may be recommended to help the joint heal and regain strength.

Stress fractures are small cracks in the bones that occur due to repetitive force or stress over time. These fractures typically occur in the lower leg, foot, or ankle. Symptoms include pain that worsens with activity and tenderness to the touch.

Treatment for stress fractures typically involves immobilizing the affected area in a cast or boot. Rest, ice, and physical therapy may also be recommended to promote healing. Surgery is rarely necessary for stress fractures.

The labrum is a piece of cartilage that surrounds the hip joint. A tear of this cartilage can occur due to an injury, such as a fall, or due to wear and tear over time. Symptoms may include pain in the hip joint, difficulty moving the joint, and clicking or popping noises.

Treatment for a hip labral tear typically involves rest, physical therapy, and anti-inflammatory medications. Surgery may be necessary to repair the damaged cartilage. After surgery, physical therapy is usually recommended to help regain strength and range of motion in the hip joint.

The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that surround the shoulder joint. An injury to this area can cause pain, tenderness, and difficulty moving the shoulder joint.

Treatment for rotator cuff injuries typically involves rest, ice, and physical therapy. Surgery may be necessary in more severe cases to repair the torn muscles or tendons. Following surgery, physical therapy is usually recommended.

The Maimonides Bone and Joint Center is your source for comprehensive orthopedic care in New York. If you’re experiencing pain or have suffered a sports injury, our team of specialists can help you get back on your feet.