Imaging in Sports Injuries

Background: Sports injuries are common among both professional and recreational athletes, contributing significantly to pain, disability, and time away from training or competition. Imaging plays a crucial role in early diagnosis, management decisions, and monitoring recovery, thereby supporting a timely return to play. Aims and Objectives: This review aims to provide an overview of the role of imaging in sports injuries involving the upper and lower limbs, highlighting the utility, strengths, and limitations of various imaging modalities. Methods: Relevant literature on sports-related injuries and imaging techniques—including radiographs, ultrasound, computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)—was reviewed. Emphasis was placed on common injury patterns, modality-specific findings, and clinical correlations across different sports and anatomical regions. Results: Radiographs remain the first-line tool for detecting fractures and dislocations. Ultrasound provides real-time dynamic evaluation of tendons, muscles, and ligaments, and assists in guiding interventions. CT is particularly useful for complex fractures and surgical planning. MRI is the gold standard for detailed assessment of soft-tissue injuries, including ligaments, cartilage, labral tears, bone marrow lesions, and early stress injuries. Understanding the sport-specific mechanisms greatly enhances diagnostic accuracy. Conclusion: Each imaging modality has a unique role in evaluating sports injuries. A multimodality approach, combined with knowledge of injury mechanisms, improves diagnostic accuracy, optimises treatment planning, and supports safe return to sport. This review summarises key imaging findings in upper and lower limb sports injuries and reinforces the essential role of radiology in modern sports medicine.