Sports Medicine Evaluation and Treatment Protocol

Initial Assessment

1. Primary Survey

• Assess vital signs and level of consciousness
• Rule out life-threatening conditions
• Evaluate for spine or head injury
• Check neurovascular status

2. History Taking

• Mechanism of injury (MOI)
• Onset and timing of symptoms
• Previous injuries or conditions
• Current level of function

Physical Examination

1. Observation

• Swelling and ecchymosis
• Deformity
• Gait analysis when applicable
• Compensatory movements

2. Palpation

• Point tenderness
• Muscle tone and tension
• Joint line assessment
• Temperature comparison

3. Special Tests

• Sport-specific functional testing
• Range of motion assessment
• Strength testing
• Ligament stability tests

Immediate Care Protocol

1. Acute Injury Management (PRICE)

• Protection from further injury
• Rest from aggravating activities
• Ice for 15-20 minutes every 2-3 hours
• Compression with appropriate bandaging
• Elevation above heart level when possible

2. Documentation Requirements

• Detailed injury description
• Assessment findings
• Treatment plan
• Return-to-play criteria

Treatment Planning

1. Phase-Based Rehabilitation

1. Acute Phase

   • Pain management
   • Protection of injured structures
   • Initial exercises

2. Subacute Phase

   • Progressive loading
   • Range of motion exercises
   • Proprioception training

3. Return to Function Phase

   • Sport-specific training
   • Strength and power development
   • Agility and coordination drills

2. Return to Play Criteria

• Full pain-free range of motion
• Restored strength (>90% compared to uninjured side)
• Successful completion of sport-specific tests
• Psychological readiness

Prevention Strategies

1. Pre-participation Screening

• Biomechanical assessment
• Previous injury review
• Sport-specific risk factor evaluation

2. Ongoing Monitoring

• Regular reassessment
• Training load management
• Recovery protocol implementation