Top 5 Red Flags You Shouldn’t Ignore After a Sporting Injury 🚩

A runner grimaces in pain on the track after sustaining a knee injury.

1. Swelling That Just Won’t Go Away

Some swelling is expected immediately after an injury. If it remains significant for several days, continues to increase with activity, or is associated with warmth and limited movement, it may indicate a more serious ligament, tendon, or joint injury. Ongoing swelling means the tissue is not healing effectively and requires assessment.

A close-up view of a foot showing noticeable swelling and redness, indicating pain and inflammation.

2. Sharp, Stabbing Pain With Every Movement

General muscle soreness should reduce a little each day. Sharp or intense pain with bending, weight-bearing, or specific movements indicates potential structural damage such as a tear or a sprain. Pain that feels “mechanical” or causes immediate withdrawal from the movement needs proper diagnosis and treatment.

Athlete experiences intense shoulder pain from a sports injury, highlighting the need for proper recovery and care.

3. You Can’t Put Weight on It

If walking is difficult, painful, or impossible, the injury may involve important stabilising tissues or a possible fracture. Weight-bearing should gradually improve after minor injuries. When it does not, continuing to push through may worsen the damage. Professional evaluation is essential to ensure safe recovery.

Be aware that excessive pressure on one foot can cause discomfort or injury over time. Mindful weight distribution can lead to more reliable measurements and improved foot health.

4. Pain That Wakes You Up At Night

Pain that interrupts sleep or worsens during rest can be a sign of significant inflammation, joint irritation, or other deeper issues. Recovery occurs during rest, so disrupted sleep suggests the body is struggling to repair the injury without additional support.

Illustrating the distress of being woken up by nighttime pain.

5. Visible Deformity or Bruising That Spreads

Changes in joint alignment, unusual contours around a muscle, or bruising that spreads over a larger area may indicate a dislocation, tendon injury, or high-grade muscle tear. These injuries require early intervention to prevent long-term weakness or instability.

Bruising and discoloration on a foot, indicating a significant injury and pain.

Early recognition of injury warning signs can make a significant difference in recovery outcomes. If swelling, sharp pain, loss of function, sleep-disturbing symptoms, or visible changes in the injured area persist, it is important not to delay seeking professional assessment. Addressing these concerns early helps protect the injured tissue, prevent further damage, and ensure a safe and efficient return to sport or regular activity. If you are experiencing any of these red flags after an injury, booking a physiotherapy assessment is the most responsible next step.

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