GBMC Surgeon details treatment for athlete sprains

Dr. Todd Melegari, an orthopedic surgeon at GBMC Health System in Towson, classifies sports injuries into two distinct groups. The first group consists of overuse injuries, while the second group includes acute traumatic events.

Melegari stated that overuse injuries often manifest as tendinitis. He described the condition as a state where a tendon becomes overwhelmed and lacks the time to repair itself. He noted that these cases are frequently managed through rest, activity modification, and medication.

The second category involves acute traumatic injuries, such as ligament damage. In orthopedic practice, ligament injuries are commonly referred to as sprains. Melegari identified the knee and ankle as the most frequent sites for these injuries among his patients.

Local attention turned to ankle injuries when Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson suffered a high ankle sprain. The injury sidelined the player for three games. Melegari explained that a high ankle sprain affects the ligament connecting the shin bone to the fibula. He noted that the fibula is the small bone located on the outside of the leg.

According to Melegari, the ligaments involved in high ankle sprains require more force to sustain an injury. These ligaments are structurally thicker, which means the healing process generally takes longer. Treatment for such cases includes rest, anti-inflammatory medication, and an extended recovery period.

Melegari warned against pushing through injuries. He stated that forcing activity can result in a longer period of inactivity. He added that severe cases may require surgical intervention.

Melegari said that patients at GBMC Orthopedics receive care from fellowship-trained specialists. He stated that the goal of the care plan is to help patients heal, regain mobility, and return to their preferred activities.