Dr. Ples Latson Kujawa MD
Sports Medicine Specialist | Sports Medicine
12709 Toepperwein Rd Suite 101 San Antonio TX, 78233About
Dr. Ples Kujawa is a Sports Medicine Family Practitioner in San Antonio, TX. As a Sports Medicine Family Practitioner, Dr. Kujawa is trained to assess, diagnose, prevent, and treat sports injuries in patients of all ages, and refer those patients to further services if needed. Sports Medicine Family Practitioners must complete specialized training in order to help each patient maximize function and improve quality of life.
Dr. Ples Latson Kujawa MD's Videos
Education and Training
Univ of Tx Med Sch At San Antonio, San Antonio Tx 1983
Board Certification
Orthopaedic SurgeryAmerican Board of Orthopaedic SurgeryABOS
Provider Details
Dr. Ples Latson Kujawa MD's Expert Contributions
What kind of doctor should I see for back pain?
At age 20, most likely pain is mechanical, meaning some locked up joints called facets or SI (sacroilliac). That said, a screening and xray to rule out any less common issues. Would see an orthopaedic surgeon first, possibly a neurosurgeon or Chiropractor. If no significant findings with the screening exam, then a physical therapist would be next. Must be a PT who is well qualified in manual or manipulative techniques. READ MORE
How long is the healing period of a torn ACL?
Complicated. If a reconstruction procedure is performed, general rule is 9 months before allowing full unrestricted activities. That's if strength, quadriceps in particular, is solid and range of motion good. That said, from day 1 after injury, begin to use the quadriceps to not lose any more strength. READ MORE
What treatment does my daughter need for her broken ankle?
Orthopaedics is my first choice, though there are some Family Sports Medicine docs who are very good. Certainly get an opinion as 12 year olds usually still have open growth plates. Missing some subtle issues can have long term implications. READ MORE
Can I see my pain management doctor during the coronavirus?
There are no restrictions limiting visits toYour Pain Management Doc. Procedures done in His/Her office would be allowed. If an elective procedure done in a hospital or surgery center then not currently allowed unless an emergency. And, just being in pain is not considered an emergency. READ MORE
Which specialist do I see for my son's dislocated arm?
Orthopedics is my first choice. "Arm" is not specific enough. Shoulder or elbow most common. Has it been reduced to normal position? Then, depending on many factors, how long to immobilize vs motion vs time to begin any rehab? READ MORE
How important is stretching?
I personally think stretching as well as core strength are the most neglected parts of any sports or conditioning program. Keep it smooth, in control and gradually increasing. READ MORE
Can sport counseling help me be a better player?
Not likely to hurt, but value depends on where you are and your state of mind. And, the skill of the counselor. Cost to benefit?? READ MORE
Can working out too much be bad for my health?
Not usually, unless too many supplements or even steroids get into the picture. By far the biggest problem I see here is not being balanced with all muscle groups. Like, doing bench and leg presses only. Maxing out too often with weights or doing squats all the way to the floor etc. can be damaging. No need to go below 90 degrees at the knees with squats or leg presses. Past that will lead to knee problems. Ignoring core strength and flexibility is a huge mistake and very often overlooked. READ MORE
Ideally, how often should kids be active for?
Some these days are saying just an hour a day hoping to get the kid off the couch at least some. I like 2 -4 hours a day. READ MORE
Can CBD oil help with muscle strain?
Not great science with CBD. That said, I see that it generally will help. And, I see really no downside to it. Bigger question is why is it strained? Is something out of alignment? Is there a muscle imbalance? READ MORE
How often should I drink water while playing sports?
Depends on what sport and at what level. As long as you are sweating some, you are probably okay. If very strenuous activity, just water alone will not keep up with electrolyte loss. General rule would be Gatoraide at 1/3 - 1/2 strength. I prefer to do water and then every other or every third time do a Gatoraide. While I am not suggesting this, I think kids and young people 40-50 years ago plus adapted much better to longer periods between water. READ MORE
What are the most common injuries in volleyball?
First off, becoming too single sport specific early on is problematic. I would emphasize several different activities and sports. Don't ignore core strength and flexibility. Specifically though, shoulder injuries can be first on my list. Usually not huge injuries, but more strains, etc. Especially if there is any muscle imbalance. Ankle sprains and occasional fractures, Knee sprains and the occasional ligament injury. Diving toward the floor could be a wrist, etc. That said, rather uncommon to see a serious injury with volleyball. READ MORE
What age should I put my kid in sports?
I think the sooner, the better, especially if your son is interested. I do strongly encourage multiple different sports early on and as he gets older go more with what he prefers. Soccer, baseball, gymnastics, basketball, and swimming all develop different skills and overall coordination. If a kid say only swims and plays soccer, he will likely be poor at catching and throwing. READ MORE
Should I put my son in football?
First, I would ask how old he is. I rarely see a serious injury below ninth grade football. Concussions are a concern for sure, but the past few years, the rules are much more protective as are the coaching/tackling techniques. And the concussion protocols require a minimum of 8-10 days being observed and progressively brought back to full play. All that said, if your son is dead set on playing football, neither of you will be happy until he does. And concussions occur in soccer, wrestling, and less often in baseball, basketball, and volleyball. READ MORE
Are foot massages beneficial for runners?
Certainly will not hurt. I would look first at shoes, arch supports, and stretching - achilles and plantar fascia. If still an issue after that, might consider the massage and see if the benefit is worth the cost. READ MORE
Can you still be injured without having pain?
Very unlikely, especially with knee injuries. I do see an occasional knee injury with just swelling and little or no pain. What You described wouldn't concern me at all unless it keeps occurring. READ MORE
How soon do you see a physical therapist after tearing your ACL?
Depends on how sore and unstable his knee is. Only real concern is the quadriceps (front thigh) muscle losing strength. It is a squirrelly muscle which atrophies quickly and is tough to get back. So, if able, make the quadriceps kick in with straight leg raises, contractions, etc. Usually okay to bear weight as tolerated. Most states require a prescription to see a PT, so some delay there. At 17, any access to a high school trainer who can begin some things. READ MORE
Is heat or cold better for wrist pain?
YES! Meaning which makes it feel better? After that, in general, heat before an activity, ice after. Real question is why does it hurt? Without a specific injury, in your age, a ganglion cyst is first option. Some can be felt with your finger, some not. Very unlikely to be anything serious. Topical CBD Oil would be an option. READ MORE
What is the fastest way to relieve knee pain?
Not a simple answer without knowing more, but first and most likely source starts with your foot. A stable arch support can make a big difference. If your foot is at all flat or rolls around, then your knee will twist side to side and become irritated. Past that or if swelling occurs, then get an orthopedic doc to have a look. Soccer shoes have zero or very little arch support. Does it occur when running in a good running shoe? Take you and your soccer shoes to a legitimate running store. Likely end up with an insert inside those shoes. Soccer guys don't like messing with their shoes, but seems after a couple of weeks you won't mind at all. READ MORE
How do you shower after elbow surgery?
Depends on what surgery. If arthroscopic, I'd let you get it wet in the shower after a couple of days. Is there a cast? More than that and it depends. If any doubt, let's keep it dry. A plastic bag taped above and below. Most pharmacies have a cast protector. This is plastic sleeve that has a rubber seal on the upper arm. $15-$20 maybe. And what I hear works well is this newer type of Saran Wrap which is crinkly and seals very to itself (don't really know what it's actually called). This would likely be my first choice. READ MORE
Dr. Ples Latson Kujawa MD's Practice location
Dr. Ples Latson Kujawa MD's reviews
Write ReviewPatient Experience with Dr. Kujawa
Media Releases
Get to know Orthopedic Surgeon and Sports Medicine Specialist Dr. Ples Kujawa, who serves patients in San Antonio, Texas.
Dr. Kujawa is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon & sports medicine specialist who is currently serving patients at his private practice in San Antonio, Texas. His practice is wide-ranging to include fractures, knee and hip replacement, knee and shoulder arthroscopies, and general orthopedics. He and his staff are committed to orthopedic excellence and pledge to provide each patient with the very best care available. With over 20 years of experience and using the latest advancements in orthopedic technology, Dr. Kujawa customizes treatment plans according to each patient’s individual needs.
Dr. Kujawa is also affiliated with Northeast Methodist Hospital, Christus Santa Rosa, and Methodist Ambulatory Surgery Hospital.
Dr. Kujawa earned his medical degree, internship, and residency at the University of Texas Medical School in Houston, Texas. He then went on to complete a fellowship in orthopedics and sports medicine at the Fracture Care Center in Eugene, Oregon. He also completed a fellowship in sports medicine in Sydney, Australia.
Dr. Kujawa is a member of the Alamo Orthopaedic Society, the Alpha Omega Alpha National Medical Honor Society, the Bexar County Medical Society, and the Texas Medical Association. He is also a Fellow of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (FAAOS) and a Fellow of the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgeons (FABOS).
Dr. Kujawa is board-certified in orthopedic surgery by the ABOS – an organization with the goal of establishing educational and professional standards for orthopedic residents and surgeons, as well as evaluating the qualifications and competence of orthopedic surgeons. It is a member of the American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS).
Dr. Kujawa appreciates the specific needs of the high school athlete as demonstrated by his 20 plus years of being the team physician for Roosevelt High School.
Orthopedic surgery or orthopedics is the branch of surgery that deals with conditions involving the musculoskeletal system. An orthopedic surgeon offers care to patients suffering from problems associated with the joints, bones, muscles, tendons, and ligaments. They perform surgeries to address trauma, injuries, tumors, infections, and other conditions that require surgical intervention.
Sports medicine is the medical specialty concerned with the prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of injuries due to athletic activity. Sports medicine specialists are either orthopedic surgeons or primary care physicians who prescribe treatments for professional and amateur athletes. They are trained to address issues associated with nutrition, sports psychology, and substance abuse. They may also counsel athletes on injury prevention.
Dr. Kujawa was born in Amarillo, Texas. He has traveled extensively around the world.
Recommended Articles
- What Are the Benefits of Yoga?
Yoga, a discipline for physical, mental, and spiritual health, has been in vogue for centuries. Yoga spread to different parts of the world in the 20th century and is now considered to be a trendy way to work on physical and mental fitness. Yoga offers a number of benefits for each person such as...
- Is Dehydration an Emergency?
Dehydration refers to excessive loss of body fluids due to various reasons. Under normal conditions, the body’s requirement of fluid depends on the weight of the body. When there is loss of fluid in the form of sweat, vomiting, diarrhea, or excess production of urine, one should replace the fluid...
- The Common Causes of Knee Pain
Knee pain is a common complaint that we hear every day. People may complain of a sudden pain either in one knee or both knees, and most of the time, it is due to either overusing the knee joint or due to an injury. In many cases, you really don’t have to consult a doctor as the pain will...
- What Is a Bruise?
IntroductionBruises, also known as contusions, appear due to certain types of trauma. Bruises are formed when the body’s soft tissues are injured due to bumps, twists, fall, or blow to the body. This injury causes tiny blood vessels and small veins to break and release red blood cells (RBCs)...
- Shin Splints: What Is RICE?
he pain caused by the overuse of the shinbone, which is the large front bone in the lower leg, is known as a shin splint. Shin splints are usually characterized by pain in the inner part of the shin bone or the tibia. Shin splints are also known as medial tibial stress syndrome (MTSS). This...
- Dehydration: Causes, Symptoms and Prevention
Dehydration is the term used to describe the state of the human body when it is loses more body fluid than you take in. Body fluid, mainly water, is lost through sweat, tears, vomiting, urine and diarrhea. Dehydration could vary from mild to severe based on a number of factors, such as weather...
Nearby Providers
- Samantha Baginski DO8726 Poteet Jourdanton Fwy Acc Rd San Antonio TX 78224
- Dr. David Lester Fox MD PA12709 Toepperwein Rd San Antonio TX 78233
- Dr. Jamie Lynn Lynch M.D.18626 HARDY OAK BLVD STE 101 SAN ANTONIO TX 78258
- Dr. John R Chance iii M.D.12709 Toepperwein Rd San Antonio TX 78233
- Dr. Clayton Louis Pullin M.D.7913 Bandera Rd San Antonio TX 78250
- Dr. Vance Edward Zachary M.D.2425 Babcock Rd San Antonio TX 78229