SPORTS
INJURIES
Sports injuries require a fast yet safe approach to recovery that considers both the nature of the injury and the athlete's goals. At Dr. Verbitskiy in Maribor we help return to full activity without risk of re-injury.
Sports injuries differ from everyday stresses in intensity and often in the need for a rapid yet safe recovery. At Dr. Verbitskiy v Mariboru we treat both acute injuries (sprains, strains, contusions) and chronic overuse problems that arise from repetitive movement patterns in a given sport.
Most common causes of sports injuries
Sports injuries occur either suddenly, from a single event, or gradually, from the accumulation of micro‑injuries:
- 🔹 Insufficient warm‑up before physical activity
- 🔹 Sudden forceful movements, falls or collisions in contact sports
- 🔹 Overuse from repetitive movements (tennis elbow, runner's knees)
- 🔹 Muscle imbalance between opposing muscle groups
- 🔹 Too rapid an increase in training intensity without gradual progression
- 🔹 Previously incompletely rehabilitated injury, increasing the risk of recurrence
Recognizing a sports injury
Symptoms vary depending on whether it's an acute injury or a gradual overuse:
- 🔹 Sudden, sharp pain at the time of injury, often with swelling or bruising
- 🔹 Gradual, increasing pain in overuse injuries
- 🔹 Feeling of joint instability after a sprain or dislocation
- 🔹 Reduced performance or strength during sports activity
- 🔹 Pain that appears only after a period of activity
- 🔹 Stiffness or limited mobility after rest following training
Management of sports injuries
Treatment is adapted to the injury phase - from reducing acute pain and swelling to progressive strengthening and specific exercises for a safe return to sport.
1. Injury assessment
Accurate assessment of the type and severity of the injury and setting realistic recovery goals.
2. Manual therapy
Techniques to reduce pain, swelling and gradually restore mobility.
3. Return to sport
Sport-specific exercises with gradual load increase towards full activity.
Signs that require immediate attention
Seek immediate medical attention if a fracture is suspected (marked swelling, deformity, inability to bear weight), if there are signs of concussion (dizziness, confusion, loss of consciousness), or if there is complete joint instability after the injury, which may indicate a full ligament rupture.
Even for less dramatic injuries, early specialist assessment often shortens recovery time and reduces the risk of recurrence or progression to a chronic condition.
What our patients say
Verbitskiy, Manualna terapija - Osteopatija, diagnostika, rehabilitacija, d.o.o. · Maribor
Watch videos about manual therapy and osteopathy on our YouTube channel.
Visit YouTube channel →Frequently asked questions about sports injuries
When can I resume training after an injury?
It depends on the type and severity of the injury and progress in rehabilitation — the decision is made individually to prevent reinjury.
Should I ice the injured area immediately?
Cooling in the first 24-48 hours after an acute injury often helps reduce swelling and pain.
Is stretching before sport enough to prevent injuries?
Stretching is beneficial, but it should be combined with proper warm-up and a gradual increase in training intensity.
Do you treat recreational athletes as well, not just professionals?
Yes, we treat both professional and recreational athletes of all ages and activity levels.
How long does recovery after a sports injury take?
It depends on the type of injury - from a few days for mild strains to several months for more serious ligament injuries.
Can I prevent recurrence of the same injury?
Yes, targeted strengthening, improving movement patterns, and a gradual return to full load significantly reduce the risk of recurrence.
Contact us
For any questions or to book an appointment we are at your disposal.