Sports are a great way to have fun and meet new people while fitting in physical activity. However, accidents and injuries can quickly sideline your fun time. Some of the most common sports-related injuries include ankle sprains, knee injuries, pulled muscles, shoulder injuries and tennis or golf elbow.
Breaking Down the Injuries
Ankle strains-Sports typically involve running, jumping and turning quickly, resulting in strain on the ankles. Common among basketball, hockey, soccer and volleyball players, ankle sprains are generally caused by a twisting or rolling of the ankle, which can lead to fractures or the possible tearing of ligaments and tendons.
Knee injuries-Like the ankles, knees also take a pounding due to instant position changes that accompany sports. Cartilage problems, torn ligaments and general aches and pains are common among athletes. These types of injuries most often affect runners, cyclists, and football, soccer, basketball, baseball and volleyball players.
Pulled muscles-At some point in life, almost everyone will experience a pulled muscle for one reason or another. Because athletes utilize their muscles often, this is a common injury that is generally caused by fatigue, not warming up or stretching properly, or simply overdoing it.
Shoulder injuries-Any sport that involves overhead movement-including tennis, baseball, weightlifting, swimming or volleyball-can put you at risk for shoulder injuries. Athletes may experience rotator cuff injuries and shoulder dislocations and sprains.
Tennis elbow-Caused by repetitive motions, tennis elbow is inflammation, soreness or pain on the outside of the upper arm near the elbow.
Preventing Injuries-On and Off the Field
Help reduce your risk of sports-related injuries by taking the following precautions:
- Always warm up and cool down properly before and after a game. This includes adequate stretching and hydration. - Avoid "playing through the pain." This may only agitate the injury further. - Practice strength training to improve muscle strength, balance and flexibility. - Don't exercise when you are fatigued or weak. This will only increase your risk of injury. - Learn the correct techniques for your sport to enhance your game and protect your body. - Wear the proper equipment for your sport. Change out your gear when it becomes worn out, broken or damaged.
If you are injured while playing a sport, remember to practice RICE - rest, ice, compression and elevation. |
Sources: aaos.org, nlm.nih.gov, foxnews.com, sportssafety.org
Article courtesy of MyHealthPublisher.com.