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Sports medicine

When a serious injury or illness, or even aging, puts limitations on your life, we’re here to help you get moving again.

Our sports medicine experts

Our sports medicine team helps athletes of all ages overcome musculoskeletal problems caused by sports-related, work-related or everyday injuries.

Our experienced team includes:

  • Specially-trained sports medicine doctors
  • Board certified orthopedic surgeons
  • Physical therapists
  • Certified athletic trainers

How we help

Mild strains and sprains? Try the R.I.C.E. method.
If you have a mild strain or sprain, try R.I.C.E. Show me how.

Reviewed 10/6/2022

Treating sports injuries. Mild strains and sprains can benefit from initial treatment at home using the R.I.C.E. method.

Using the R.I.C.E. method is a good first treatment for mild sprains or strains. The benefits include pain relief, reduced inflammation and faster healing.

Start R.I.C.E. right after a mild sprain or strain. Continue for at least 48 hours.

Keep scrolling to learn how to use R.I.C.E.

REST

  • Reduce your activity as needed.
  • Use crutches if you need to.

ICE

  • Put ice on right away to keep the swelling down.
  • Use ice for 20 minutes at a time, 4 to 8 times a day.
  • You can use a cold pack, an ice bag, or a plastic bag filled with crushed ice and wrapped in a towel.

COMPRESSION

  • Compress the injured area to keep the swelling down and support the injured area.
  • You can use elastic wraps, air casts, splints or special boots.

    • ELEVATION

    • Keep the injured area elevated on a pillow above the level of your heart, if possible. This will help reduce swelling.

    GET HELP IF:

    • The injury causes severe pain, swelling or numbness.
    • You can't put any weight on the injured area.
    • The pain or ache of an old injury is accompanied by increased swelling or joint abnormality or instability.
    • Pain or other symptoms worsen after using R.I.C.E.

    NEED CRUTCHES AFTER AN INJURY? FIND OUT HOW TO USE THEM SAFELY.

    GET SAFETY TIPS

    Sources: American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons; National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases

    Sources

    Our experienced orthopedic sports medicine professionals help you meet your current and long-term needs. They offer comprehensive diagnosis, treatment, rehabilitation and prevention strategies.

    Athletic training

    Athletic trainers provide services that include injury and illness prevention, emergency care, clinical diagnosis and rehabilitation of injuries. Our goal is to get you back to play quickly and safely following an injury.

    Concussion management for student athletes

    Even when it’s mild, a concussion is a real brain injury that requires medical attention to prevent further problems. Our sports medicine doctor use a computer-based testing program to manage sports-related concussions. Learn more about our concussion services.

    Sports training programs

    Mercyhealth Top Performers offers cutting-edge programs for youth, high school, college and professional athletes. Our objective is simple but effective: decrease potential injuries and optimize athletic performance. Learn more about our sports training programs.

    Sports medicine support for community teams

    Our doctors are proud to provide their knowledge and sports medicine services to many athletic organizations. We are the exclusive sports medicine providers for the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, Rockford University and the Janesville Jets. Our sports medicine doctors and athletic trainers also provide their services to dozens of local high schools and athletic clubs.

    Make an appointment

    To schedule an appointment, find a sports medicine doctor or call 888.396.3729.