Sports injuries are mostly caused by playing sports, but many ‘sports’ injuries could also be caused by car accidents, fights, gym sessions, or work. The type of injury an athlete is at risk of can vary depending on the sport. For example, football players are more likely to suffer a concussion than tennis players. Sprains and strains are the most frequent sports injuries. Sprains are caused by overstretching or tearing of the ligaments that connect the bones to each other. Strains are caused by an overstretch or tearing of the muscle or tendons that connect the muscle to the bone. The Achilles Tendon is one of the most painful ligaments in the body. If it ruptures or breaks, the sensation is unbearable and you will most likely be unable to walk for weeks, if not longer. The knee joint is the joint that is most commonly injured by sports injuries.
While there continues to be an increase in both the number and severity of sports injuries, it’s important to note that there are several risk factors associated with sports injuries, aside from the fact that most of them involve athletes. People who are at an increased risk of developing sports injuries include inactive individuals and those who don’t adequately warm up before exercise. Contact sports players are also at an increased risk for developing sports injuries.
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What should to do when injured?
No matter how severe your injury is, it’s important to treat it as soon as possible. The most common emergency treatment for sports injuries is the RICE (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) method. Stop what you are doing and go to a comfortable place to sit. If you are in pain, try to relax your injured area. You may find that as you sit, the pain starts to subside. Icing your injury will soothe the area and reduce some of the pain-causing inflammation. Elevating your injury above your head will also reduce inflammation and keep blood flowing to the head, reducing your risk of passing out. If you are in pain for more than two days following your injury, get in touch with your orthopedic specialist.
How can to prevent sports injuries?
Sports injuries do not have to be life-threatening, and we are happy to share with you the best ways you can prevent sports injuries. Warm-up is one of the most underrated ways to prevent sports injuries. While some athletes spend 20 minutes on a warm up routine, others may spend 30 to 45 minutes. Opt for a warm-up that includes gradually deeper stretching, and then movements that increase your heart rate followed by specific movements for the sport you are playing. Proper protective gear, such as supportive shoes, will help keep you safe as you move around. If your sport typically utilizes padding, helmets or gloves, use them on a regular basis. You may think you don’t need them, but you are more likely to get injured with them on than without. Even if you have all the equipment and warm-up you need, you still are at risk for sports injuries. If you are not paying attention or taking proper care of your body, none of these precautions will matter.
