Sports injuries in Punta de Mita / Riviera Nayarit
Assessment and treatment plan to resume your physical activity safely, without empty promises.
In this assessment you can obtain:
- focused on sports injuries (especially knee, shoulder and ankle).
- Accurate diagnosis to define if your case requires conservative management or procedure.
- Clear pathway for meniscus and cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries.
Acute or chronic: how does the origin affect treatment?
Understanding the origin helps to define the treatment. Not all are the same.
Acute injuries: Occur suddenly (blow, fall, sprain). Example: sprains, torn ligaments, fractures.
Chronic injuries (overuse): Develop over time due to repetition. Example: tendonitis, stress fractures.
The knee is a frequent focus of both, especially in turning and contact sports.
When is a sports injury worth assessing?
Prudent triage to know if you need prompt medical attention:
- Intense or progressive pain that does not subside with rest.
- Significant swelling immediately or in the first hours.
- Sensation of instability or joint failure ('my knee is giving out').
- Inability to support the limb or move the joint.
- Joint lock (the knee locks and you cannot straighten or bend it).
The two knee injuries we see most often in athletes
Meniscus Injury
Pain, swelling or blockage. We evaluate whether it is repairable or requires other management.
Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL)
Snapping, rapid swelling and instability. Key in turning sports.
What you get in the valuation
Detailed clinical history and physical examination focused on the lesion.
Request for imaging studies (X-ray, MRI) only according to clinical findings.
Stepwise treatment plan: we start with conservative management whenever safe, and consider procedures if the injury requires it.
From rest to surgery: how we decide
It is not always operated. The decision depends on the injury, your activity and your goals.
Conservative management: Rest, physiotherapy and rehabilitation (the basis of most recoveries).
Surgical options: For selected cases where the structure will not heal on its own (e.g. certain meniscal or ACL tears in young people).
Rehabilitation: Indispensable in both paths to recover function and prevent recurrences.
What to do before your consultation
Safe initial steps while receiving medical care:
What to bring to the consultation (ideal):
- Relative rest: Avoid activities that cause pain.
- Local ice (not directly on the skin) to control inflammation.
- Gentle compression and elevation of the limb.
- Avoid further training if there is relevant pain; 'toughing it out' may worsen the injury.
Your recovery, step by step
Recovery is a gradual process, not immediate.
It depends on the lesion and the chosen management.
In ACL reconstruction, the return to sport takes several months of constant work.
The goal is a safe return, minimizing the risk of re-injury.
Costs, insurance and payment options
Financial Transparency
The total cost depends on the diagnosis, complexity, hospital, supplies and if reimbursement/insurance applies. We avoid giving 'hook' prices; we give you a detailed and transparent quote after your medical evaluation.
Location and logistics
Attention in Punta de Mita with logistics for patients from Riviera Nayarit and nearby areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need surgery if I tore my meniscus?
Not always. It depends on the type of tear, your age and symptoms. Many are managed with rehabilitation.
How long does it take for a sprain to heal?
Varies according to the grade (1, 2 or 3). From a few weeks to months if there is complete ligament rupture.
Can I continue exercising?
It depends on the injury. Generally we modify the activity (low impact) while you heal, it is not always absolute rest.
Do you accept medical insurance?
Yes, we work with most major medical insurance companies. We will guide you through the process.

Dr. Francisco Rafael Hernández Pérez
Specialist in Orthopedics and Traumatology
- Prof. Card 8042876
- Cédula Esp. 10625160
- Punta Mita Hospital, Nayarit
Read reviews on Google
Do you have specific questions?

Dr. Francisco Rafael Hernández Pérez
Specialist in Orthopedics and Traumatology
- Prof. Card 8042876
- Cédula Esp. 10625160
- Punta Mita Hospital, Nayarit
Read reviews on Google