Meet Our Sports Medicine Team
Chief, Orthopedic Surgery, NewYork-Presbyterian Brooklyn Methodist Hospital
Specialties
Orthopedic Surgery
Affiliations
Columbia University Irving Medical Center
Assistant Professor of Orthopedic Surgery at CUMC
Specialties
Orthopaedic Surgery
Affiliations
NEWYORK-PRESBYTERIAN HOSPITAL
Assistant Professor
Attending Physician
Specialties
Orthopaedic Surgery
Affiliations
NEWYORK-PRESBYTERIAN HOSPITAL
Our Approach to Sports Medicine
At NewYork-Presbyterian Brooklyn Methodist Hospital, we’re committed to helping patients get back to the activities they enjoy. Whether you’re a competitive athlete or weekend warrior, our goal is to help restore your function and confidence so you can get back to daily life—without the worry of injury, pain, or restriction.
Using cutting-edge treatments and evidenced-based techniques, we provide a full continuum of surgical and non-surgical care focused on preventing, diagnosing, and treating sports-related injuries such as sprains, ligament or tendon tears, muscular strains, and more. We take an individualized approach to care, considering your unique needs and goals to create a successful treatment plan.
Our Services
We offer a range of procedures and treatments, including:
- ACL reconstruction
- Meniscus repair
- Rotator cuff repair
- Shoulder stabilization
- Hip and knee arthroscopy
- Cartilage restoration
- Fracture fixation
- Tendon repair
- Ankle ligament reconstruction
- Patellar stabilization
- Various spinal procedures
- Physical therapy and activity modification
- Bracing and splinting
Our Locations
NewYork-Presbyterian Brooklyn Methodist Hospital
Orthopedic Services
NewYork-Presbyterian Brooklyn Methodist Hospital
Orthopedic Services
NewYork-Presbyterian Brooklyn Methodist Hospital
Orthopedic Services
NewYork-Presbyterian Brooklyn Methodist Hospital
Orthopedic Services
Sports Medicine Conditions
Joint Sprains
A joint sprain occurs when the ligaments that connect bones to each other are stretched or torn. Ligaments are strong, fibrous bands of tissue that provide support and stability to joints. Sprains most commonly occur in the ankles, but they can also occur in other joints such as the knees, wrists, and elbows.
Symptoms of a joint sprain may include pain, swelling, stiffness, and difficulty moving the affected joint. In severe cases, there may be bruising or a popping sound at the time of injury.
Treatment for a joint sprain typically involves resting the affected joint, applying ice to reduce swelling, and elevating the joint to reduce inflammation. In some cases, a splint or brace may be used to immobilize the joint and allow it to heal. Physical therapy may also be recommended to help restore range of motion and strength to the affected joint.
It is important to seek medical attention if you suspect you have a joint sprain, as some sprains can be severe and require more intensive treatment.
Muscle Strains
Muscle strain, also known as a pulled muscle, is a common injury that occurs when a muscle is stretched or torn. It can happen as a result of physical activity, sports, or even everyday movements such as lifting heavy objects or twisting suddenly. The symptoms of muscle strain can range from mild discomfort to severe pain, and can include swelling, stiffness, and limited range of motion.
In some cases, more severe muscle strains may require medical attention, such as physical therapy or even surgery. If you experience severe pain, difficulty moving the affected muscle, or if the symptoms do not improve after a few days of self-care, it's important to see a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
Dislocations
Joint dislocation occurs when the bones that make up a joint are forced out of their normal positions, causing the joint to be misaligned. Joint dislocations can occur in any joint in the body, but they are most commonly seen in the shoulder, finger, elbow, knee, and hip joints.
Some common causes of joint dislocations include falls, sports injuries, and car accidents. Symptoms of a joint dislocation include pain, swelling, deformity, and difficulty moving the affected joint. If you suspect you have a joint dislocation, seek medical attention immediately. The doctor will examine the joint and may order X-rays or other imaging tests to determine the extent of the injury.
ACL (Anterior Cruciate Ligament Tear) Tear
An ACL tear, or anterior cruciate ligament tear, is a common knee injury that can occur during sports or other physical activities. The ACL is a ligament that connects the thigh bone (femur) to the shin bone (tibia) and helps stabilize the knee joint. When the ACL tears, it can cause pain, swelling, instability, and difficulty moving the knee.
ACL tears can be partial or complete, and the severity of the injury can vary. Some common causes of ACL tears include sudden stops or changes in direction, landing awkwardly from a jump, and direct blows to the knee.
Symptoms of an ACL tear can include a popping sensation in the knee, immediate pain and swelling, difficulty bearing weight on the affected leg, and instability or a feeling of giving way in the knee.
The treatment for an ACL tear depends on the severity of the injury, the patient's age, activity level, and other factors. Non-surgical treatment may be an option for partial tears or for patients who are less active, while surgery may be recommended for complete tears or for patients who want to return to high-intensity activities.
Meniscus Tear (Knee)
A meniscus tear is a common injury that can occur in the knee joint. The meniscus is a piece of cartilage that acts as a cushion between the thigh bone (femur) and the shin bone (tibia). The tear can be caused by sudden twisting or rotational movements of the knee, or as a result of wear and tear over time.
Symptoms of a meniscus tear can include:
- Pain in the knee joint
- Swelling and stiffness in the knee
- Difficulty straightening or bending the knee
- A popping sensation when the injury occurs
- Feeling like the knee is locking or catching
If you suspect you have a meniscus tear, it's important to see a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis. A healthcare provider can perform a physical exam and may order imaging tests such as an MRI to confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment for a meniscus tear depends on the severity of the tear and the patient's symptoms. Treatment options can include rest and ice, physical therapy, medications, knee braces, corticosteroid injections, and in severe cases, arthroscopic surgery to repair or remove the damaged portion of the meniscus.
Fractures (Bones)
A fracture is a medical term that refers to a break or crack in a bone. Fractures can occur in any bone in the body, and they can range from a small, hairline crack to a complete break that results in two or more bone fragments. Fractures can be caused by trauma or injury, such as a fall or car accident, or by a medical condition that weakens the bones, such as osteoporosis.
Some common types of fractures include:
- Closed fracture: A fracture where the bone doesn't break through the skin.
- Open fracture: A fracture where the bone breaks through the skin and is exposed to the outside environment.
- Greenstick fracture: A fracture where the bone is partially broken, similar to a twig that has been bent. • Comminuted fracture: A fracture where the bone is broken into several pieces.
- Hairline fracture: A small crack in the bone, often difficult to see on an X-ray.
- Stress fracture: A hairline crack in the bone caused by repetitive stress or overuse, often seen in athletes.
Treatment for a fracture depends on the severity and location of the injury. Immobilization, pain management, and sometimes surgery are common treatments. It's important to seek medical attention for a suspected fracture to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment.
Rotator Cuff (Shoulder)
A rotator cuff tear is a common injury that occurs when one or more of the tendons in the rotator cuff muscles of the shoulder are torn. The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that attach the shoulder blade to the upper arm bone and help to stabilize the shoulder joint.
Rotator cuff tears can be caused by a variety of factors, including repetitive overhead motions (such as those performed in certain sports or jobs), aging, and trauma to the shoulder. Symptoms of a rotator cuff tear can include pain in the shoulder, weakness or difficulty lifting the arm, and a clicking or popping sensation when moving the arm.
Treatment options for a rotator cuff tear depend on the severity of the tear and the patient's overall health and activity level. Mild tears may be treated with rest, physical therapy, and anti-inflammatory medications, while more severe tears may require surgery to repair the torn tendons. It's important to seek medical attention if you suspect you have a rotator cuff tear, as early treatment can help prevent further damage and improve outcomes.
Tennis Elbow (Elbow)
Tennis elbow, also known as lateral epicondylitis, is a condition that causes pain on the outer part of the elbow. It is usually caused by repetitive motions of the wrist and forearm, such as playing tennis or using a computer mouse. It can also be caused by a sudden injury or strain to the tendons that attach to the lateral epicondyle (a bony bump on the outer part of the elbow).
The symptoms of tennis elbow typically include pain and tenderness on the outer part of the elbow, which can worsen with gripping or lifting objects. There may also be weakness in the wrist and forearm.
Treatment for tennis elbow usually involves rest, ice, and physical therapy exercises to stretch and strengthen the muscles and tendons in the affected area. Over-the-counter pain medications and corticosteroid injections may also be used to reduce pain and inflammation. In rare cases, surgery may be necessary to repair the damaged tendons.
Subacromial Bursitis/Shoulder Impingement (Shoulder)
Subacromial impingement is one of the most common causes of shoulder pain seen in sports medicine clinics. It is caused by inflammation of the rotator cuff tendons and/or bursa, leading to pain with certain motions forcing impingement of certain structures. These motions include elevation of the shoulder such as with overhead motions, or when laying on your side. There are various non-surgical and surgical treatment options for this, however it takes time and persistence. Non-operative treatment focuses on reducing pain with medications or injections, while improving function and optimizing the motion of the shoulder in the form of exercise or physical therapy.
MCL (Medial Collateral Ligament) Injuries (Knee)
An MCL injury is a common injury that affects the knee joint. The MCL is a band of tissue that runs along the inside of the knee joint and helps to stabilize it. An MCL injury can occur when the knee is bent inward or twisted while the foot is planted on the ground. This can cause the MCL to stretch or tear.
Symptoms of an MCL injury can include pain on the inside of the knee, swelling, stiffness, and difficulty moving the knee. In more severe cases, there may be a popping or tearing sensation at the time of injury.
Treatment for an MCL injury depends on the severity of the injury. In mild cases, rest, ice, compression, and physical therapy may be enough to allow the MCL to heal on its own. More severe cases may require bracing, medications, or even surgery.
Runner’s Knee
Runner's knee is a common term used to describe a group of conditions that cause pain around the kneecap (patella). The medical term for this condition is patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS). PFPS is typically caused by overuse of the knee joint, such as from running, jumping, or repetitive activities that put stress on the knee. It can also be caused by a direct blow to the knee, muscle imbalances, or structural abnormalities of the knee joint.
The symptoms of runner's knee include pain around the front of the knee, particularly when bending the knee, climbing stairs, or sitting for prolonged periods of time. The knee may also feel stiff, and there may be a grinding or popping sensation when bending the knee. Treatment for runner's knee typically includes rest, ice, and anti-inflammatory medications to reduce pain and swelling.
Tendonitis
Tendonitis, also known as tendinitis, is a condition in which a tendon - the fibrous tissue that connects muscle to bone - becomes inflamed and irritated. It is typically caused by repetitive movements or overuse of a tendon, although it can also be caused by sudden injury or trauma.
Tendonitis can occur in any part of the body where there are tendons, but it is most commonly seen in the shoulders, elbows, wrists, knees, and ankles. Symptoms of tendonitis may include pain, stiffness, swelling, and weakness in the affected area.
Treatment for tendonitis typically involves resting the affected area, applying ice to reduce swelling, and taking over-the-counter pain medications. In some cases, physical therapy or other treatments may be recommended to help alleviate symptoms and promote healing. If left untreated, tendonitis can lead to chronic pain and decreased range of motion.
Concussions
A sports concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury that occurs as a result of a blow to the head or body that causes the brain to move rapidly inside the skull. This type of injury is common in contact sports such as football, hockey, and boxing, but can also occur in non-contact sports such as soccer, basketball, and gymnastics.
Symptoms of a sports concussion can include headache, dizziness, nausea, confusion, memory loss, sensitivity to light or noise, and changes in mood or behavior. These symptoms may be immediate or delayed and can last for days, weeks, or even months.
It is important to seek medical attention if you suspect you or someone else has sustained a concussion during sports activities. Rest and avoiding further head injuries are key to recovering from a sports concussion. Athletes should also follow a graduated return-to-play protocol under the guidance of a medical professional before returning to sports activities.
Golfer’s Elbow
Golfer's elbow, also known as medial epicondylitis, is a condition that causes pain and inflammation in the tendons that attach to the inside of the elbow. It is a type of overuse injury that occurs due to repetitive or forceful gripping, twisting or bending of the wrist and forearm, which puts excessive strain on the tendons.
The symptoms of golfer's elbow include pain and tenderness on the inside of the elbow, weakness in the grip, stiffness and difficulty in moving the arm. The pain may also radiate down the forearm towards the wrist.
Treatment for golfer's elbow usually involves rest, ice, and physical therapy exercises to help strengthen and stretch the affected tendons. Anti-inflammatory medications or corticosteroid injections may also be prescribed to reduce pain and inflammation. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to repair the damaged tendons.
Preventative measures for golfer's elbow include using proper technique when playing golf or other activities that involve repetitive wrist and forearm movements, using appropriate equipment that is comfortable and fits well, and gradually increasing the intensity and duration of the activity.
Shin Splints (Lower-leg)
Shin splints are a common injury that affects the lower leg, particularly the area between the knee and ankle. The injury is often caused by overuse of the muscles, tendons, and bone tissue in the lower leg due to repetitive stress and impact.
Symptoms of shin splints can include pain, tenderness, and swelling along the shin bone, particularly during and after physical activity. The pain may be dull and achy or sharp and intense.
It is important to seek medical attention if shin splints do not improve with self-care measures, as they can sometimes be a sign of a more serious injury such as a stress fracture. Proper footwear, stretching, and gradually increasing intensity and duration of physical activity can also help prevent shin splints from occurring.