When Should You Consider Sports Injury Surgery? Dr. Shohab Hyder Shaikh Explains

Sports injuries are common among athletes and active individuals, but not all injuries require surgery. Many can heal with rest, physiotherapy, and non-surgical treatments. However, in some cases, surgery becomes necessary to restore full function and prevent long-term complications. Dr. Shohab Hyder Shaikh, a leading orthopedic surgeon and sports injury surgeon in Karachi, explains when surgery should be considered for a sports injury.

1. When Non-Surgical Treatments Fail

Many sports injuries, such as ligament sprains, muscle strains, and minor fractures, can heal with conservative treatments like physiotherapy, medications, and lifestyle modifications. However, if an injury does not improve after weeks or months of non-surgical treatment, surgery may be the best option.

2. Severe Ligament Tears (ACL, MCL, PCL, etc.)

Ligaments are essential for joint stability, and severe ligament tears, such as an ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) rupture, often require surgery. Without proper reconstruction, an athlete may experience knee instability, making it difficult to return to sports.

3. Recurrent Dislocations (Shoulder, Patella, etc.)

Athletes who suffer from repeated shoulder or kneecap (patellar) dislocations often need surgical intervention to restore stability. Without surgery, frequent dislocations can lead to long-term joint damage and arthritis.

4. Meniscus and Cartilage Damage

Cartilage injuries, including meniscus tears and chondral defects, can cause persistent pain, swelling, and reduced mobility. If left untreated, they may lead to early arthritis. Arthroscopic surgery is often recommended to repair or remove damaged tissue.

5. Fractures That Need Surgical Fixation

While some fractures heal with casting, others require internal fixation with screws, plates, or rods to ensure proper alignment and healing. This is especially important for displaced fractures or fractures in weight-bearing bones.

6. Chronic Tendon Injuries (Achilles Tendon, Tennis Elbow, etc.)

Tendon injuries, such as Achilles tendon ruptures or severe cases of tennis elbow, may not respond to conservative treatments. In such cases, surgical tendon repair is necessary to restore strength and function.

7. Persistent Pain and Loss of Function

If an athlete experiences ongoing pain, swelling, or difficulty in movement despite treatment, surgery might be required to address underlying structural damage and restore full function.

8. High-Performance Athletes Needing Quick Recovery

For professional athletes or individuals whose careers depend on physical performance, surgery may be the best option for faster recovery and a safe return to competitive sports.

Conclusion

Dr. Shohab Hyder Shaikh advises that early diagnosis and treatment are key to preventing long-term complications. If you have a sports injury that is not improving with conservative care, consult a specialist to determine if surgery is the right option for you. With the right treatment approach, you can recover fully and return to your active lifestyle.