From high school athletes to weekend warriors, sports injuries are a common part of life in Buffalo and Western New York. Whether you play hockey, soccer, or enjoy running along the lakefront, injuries can range from mild strains to serious fractures or ligament tears. But how do you know when it’s time to get an imaging test after a sports injury? At Great Lakes Medical Imaging (GLMI), we help athletes and active individuals find answers quickly and safely through advanced diagnostic imaging.

Why Imaging Matters After a Sports Injury

Not every sports injury is visible to the naked eye. While some issues resolve with rest and physical therapy, others may involve deeper damage to bones, ligaments, tendons, or joints. Imaging provides a clear picture of the extent of the injury, guiding treatment plans and preventing long-term complications.

Imaging is especially important if you experience:

• Persistent pain or swelling that doesn’t improve with rest
• Limited range of motion or joint instability
• Visible deformity or bruising after impact
• Inability to bear weight on the injured limb
• Recurrent injuries in the same area

Common Imaging Tests for Sports Injuries

GLMI offers a range of imaging services to evaluate sports-related injuries. Your doctor may recommend one or more of the following, depending on the suspected injury:

X-Ray

The first step in diagnosing fractures or dislocations. X-rays provide fast, reliable images of bones and joint alignment, making them essential for acute injuries.

MRI

MRI is the gold standard for evaluating soft tissue injuries, including torn ligaments, tendons, and cartilage. It’s commonly used to diagnose ACL tears, meniscus injuries, and rotator cuff damage.

Ultrasound

Ultrasound offers real-time visualization of muscles and tendons. It’s useful for identifying tendonitis, bursitis, or fluid buildup around joints.

CT Scan

CT scans provide detailed cross-sectional images, ideal for complex fractures or injuries involving joints like the hip or shoulder.

When Should You Get Imaging?

The timing of an imaging test depends on the severity and location of your injury. Here are some general guidelines:

• Immediate Imaging: Severe pain, inability to move the joint, or visible deformity after trauma may require urgent X-rays or CT scans to rule out fractures or dislocations.
• Follow-Up Imaging: If pain persists despite rest, ice, and physical therapy, an MRI or ultrasound may be recommended to assess soft tissue injuries.
• Preventive Imaging: Chronic injuries or repetitive strain (like runner’s knee or tennis elbow) may benefit from imaging to guide rehabilitation strategies.

Sports Injuries Commonly Seen in Buffalo, NY

Buffalo’s active community sees a variety of sports-related injuries throughout the year. Common examples include:

• Winter sports: Skiing and hockey-related fractures, ACL tears, and shoulder dislocations
• Summer sports: Running, baseball, and soccer injuries like shin splints, tendonitis, and ankle sprains
• Recreational activities: Biking and hiking accidents leading to wrist or collarbone fractures

No matter the sport, accurate diagnosis is key to getting back on the field—or trail—safely and quickly.

Why Choose GLMI for Sports Injury Imaging?

At GLMI, we specialize in providing fast, accurate imaging for patients of all ages and activity levels. Our outpatient centers across Western New York make it easy to schedule an appointment that fits your busy life. Benefits include:

• Access to state-of-the-art MRI, CT, ultrasound, and X-ray technology
• Expert radiologists experienced in musculoskeletal imaging
• Quick turnaround times so you can start treatment without delays
• Convenient locations in Williamsville, Cheektowaga, and Orchard Park

How Imaging Supports Your Recovery

Imaging doesn’t just diagnose injuries—it helps track healing. Follow-up scans can confirm when a fracture has healed or ensure that repaired ligaments are recovering properly. This information is invaluable for athletes working to return to their sport safely and at full strength.

Schedule Your Sports Injury Imaging Appointment Today

If you’ve suffered a sports injury in Buffalo or Western NY, don’t guess about the severity. Contact GLMI today to schedule your imaging appointment. We work closely with your physician or orthopedic specialist to provide accurate results and help you get back to doing what you love—safely.

---

Medical Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with your physician or qualified healthcare provider about any injury or medical condition before undergoing imaging or treatment.