Soft Tissue Injuries

About Soft Tissue Injuries

Sprains, strains, and contusions, as well as tendinitis and bursitis, are common soft-tissue injuries. These injuries often occur during sports and exercise activities, but sometimes simple everyday activities can also cause an injury. Soft-tissue injuries typically fall into two basic categories - acute injuries and overuse injuries. Acute injuries are caused by sudden trauma, such as a fall, twist or blow. Overuse injuries occur gradually over time when an activity is repeated so often that the areas affected don’t have enough time to heal between occurrences. Even with appropriate treatment, these injuries may require a prolonged amount of time to heal, so it’s important to see your provider to evaluate the severity of the injury for an appropriate treatment plan.

Treating Soft Tissue Injuries at UT Health Austin

In more severe cases it may be difficult to determine whether your bone is broken or if there has been a complete tear of a ligament it is recommended you go to an emergency room or see your physician as quickly as possible after an injury occurs. Upon evaluation or your injury which may including x-rays, your treatment may vary depending on the extent of the damage. For less severe injuries following the RICE protocol (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) and sometimes physical therapy exercises are appropriate to heal and regain strength in the affected area. Moderate sprains often require a period of bracing to provide stability. The most severe injuries may require surgery to repair torn ligaments. Throughout the course of your treatment, your care team will work with you to understand the risks and benefits and what you can expect throughout your recovery.

Care Team Approach

At UT Health Austin, we take a multidisciplinary approach to your care. This means you will benefit from the expertise of multiple specialists across a variety of disciplines caring for you in one place to avoid having to schedule multiple appointments with providers at locations all over the city. The Musculoskeletal Institute care team includes orthopedic surgeons, sports medicine physicians, physician assistants, physical therapists, physiatrists, chiropractors, nurse practitioners, dietitians, social workers, and more who work together to help you get back to the things in your life that matter most to you.

We collaborate with our colleagues at the Dell Medical School and The University of Texas at Austin to utilize the latest research, diagnostic, and treatment techniques, allowing us to customize a treatment plan specific to you. Treatment may include nonsurgical interventions, such as lifestyle modifications, physical therapy, or medication and injections, or surgery may be the best course of action to help improve your pain and function. Advanced imaging and lab testing are also available on-site if needed.

Learn More About Your Care Team