First: assess the severity
Pain, swelling and weakness can accompany different injuries. An inability to bear weight, a visible deformity or loss of sensation requires urgent assessment. Continuing to train through severe pain can be harmful, especially when a bone injury has not been excluded.
An assessment that considers your sport
Explain how the injury happened, any earlier symptoms and recent changes in training. The examination guides the need for imaging and other tests. Care will differ for recreational running, contact sports and activities involving sudden stops or turns.
A return based on function
Care may involve protecting the injured area, rehabilitation and gradually rebuilding strength and movement control. Sometimes a surgical assessment is needed. A return to sport depends on the injury, symptoms and functional readiness, rather than the calendar alone. Limitations and expectations are reviewed during follow-up appointments.
