Sports Injuries and Stress Fractures With Dr. Alaa El-Banna

Dr. Alaa El-Banna, Consultant of Orthopedics and Spine Surgery, explains that sports injuries and stress fractures are among the most common conditions affecting both professional athletes and amateurs. These injuries require accurate diagnosis and specialized care to prevent complications and ensure a safe return to activity. Some injuries may seem minor at first but can worsen without proper treatment.

In this article, Dr. Alaa El-Banna outlines the most common types of sports injuries and how to manage them effectively.

 What Are Sports Injuries and Stress Fractures?

Sports injuries include:

• Muscle strains

• Joint sprains

• Ligament injuries (e.g., ACL tears)

• Tendonitis and overuse inflammation

Stress fractures are tiny cracks in bones caused by repetitive stress or overuse, especially without adequate rest.

 Symptoms That Require Medical Attention

According to Dr. Alaa El-Banna, the following symptoms may indicate an injury that needs urgent evaluation:

• Persistent pain during or after physical activity

• Localized swelling

• Limited range of motion or joint instability

• Bruising or discoloration

• Clicking or popping sensation during movement

 Diagnosis and Assessment

Diagnosis is based on:

• Detailed clinical examination

• X-rays or CT scans

• MRI for subtle or deep injuries

• Functional tests to assess joint or muscle stability

Dr. Alaa El-Banna emphasizes that early diagnosis helps avoid surgery and accelerates healing.

 Treatment Plan

Treatment varies depending on the type and severity of the injury and may include:

• RICE protocol: Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation

• Braces or splints for stabilization

• Physiotherapy and rehabilitation exercises

• Anti-inflammatory injections in specific cases

• Surgical repair for torn ligaments or complex fractures

Dr. Alaa El-Banna always favors conservative treatment when possible, opting for surgery only when necessary for optimal recovery.

 Conclusion

Stress fractures and sports injuries require expert care to ensure full recovery and safe return to activity. Dr. Alaa El-Banna stresses the importance of personalized treatment plans based on the specific injury, its severity, and the patient’s response to therapy.