DEALING WITH A SPORTS INJURY

Last November, Dr. Ann Sudoh was out for a trail run when she tripped and broke her right ankle. The break was so bad that she needed surgery the same day.

Being a medical orthopaedic physician, Ann knew exactly what surgery and recovery were like. She also knew her colleagues in the Orthopaedics Department at SMDC Medical Center Duluth Clinic would put their expertise to work to see her through this injury.

“I knew the break was bad and I was going to need screws put in to stabilize the ankle. I also knew I was in good hands,” said Ann.

After surgery, Ann spent five weeks on crutches and another five weeks in a boot cast.

“It was frustrating and difficult not to be active. I tell my patients to be patient — now I know firsthand some of what they tell me they are feeling when they can’t get out and do what they want to,” said Ann. “I did find other ways to keep myself occupied though, and did a lot of hopping around my kitchen improving my cooking and baking skills.”

In March, the screws were removed from Ann’s ankle and she was able to bike and swim.

“I was glad to get moving athletically again. Now, besides the swimming and biking, I’m slowly getting back into running. I was hoping to be back in shape for the half marathon of Grandma’s Marathon, but I won’t be able to run it this year,” said Ann.

“Everyone heals at different rates and most of us hope we are going to heal faster than we actually do," she continued. "All things heal in time, it’s just frustrating when they don’t heal on the schedule you’d hoped for. But, I am looking forward to cheering people on and being part of the race atmosphere this year.”

If you get injured, there are some immediate steps you can take to speed your recovery. The four basic methods can be remembered with the acronym RICE: rest, ice, compression and elevation.

If you aren’t feeling like you can resume your normal activity within a week, you probably need to be seen for further evaluation.

If you have questions, or need an appointment, give our Orthopaedics Department a call at (218) 786-3520.

Advice from Dr. Sudoh

Dr. Ann Sudoh gives this advice to people who are dealing with a sports injury:

• It’s important to be patient with your recovery and deal with the injury positively.
• Think of your injury as something that will make you more focused, flexible, and resilient.
• Learn as much as you can about your treatment. By understanding your injury and knowing what to expect during the rehabilitation process, you will feel a greater sense of control over your recovery.
  

You'll find more tips from our Sports Medicine experts here.

To prevent injury, let us develop a customized plan suited to your body and goals through our Performance and Injury Prevention Program at the Duluth Clinic Fitness and Therapy Center.