Sports injuries are common forms of injury that occur when participating in sports or exercise. They typically stem from overtraining, a lack of conditioning, or poor technique.
Soft tissues such as muscles, tendons, and ligaments are the most commonly affected areas of injury incurred. Bruises, sprains, tears, and broken bones can all be the result of injuring oneself in this fashion. Some of the worst sports injuries can even include traumatic brain injury.
According to Melissa Stopler, MD, although a person can injure any part of the body while playing sports or exercising, most sports injuries damage the musculoskeletal system.
There are numerous different forms of injuries that can be the consequence of engaging in sports. Continue reading below to learn more about a few of the most common injuries that people experience.
A pulled muscle occurs when a muscle is overstretched and tears. This is one of the most common injuries dealt with in the realm of athletics. Symptoms of a pulled muscle include pain, swelling, and, in some cases, the inability to use the affected muscle. Minor cases can be healed using rest, ice, compression, and elevation. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs, can be used to manage pain. Major muscle strains need to be evaluated by a medical professional, such as a sports doctor.
Shin splints are an injury incurred by sports that require a high volume of running. Common for basketball and soccer beginners, shin splints are a throbbing, aching pain on the inside of the lower legs. This is a repetitive-use injury that happens when the muscles and tendons surrounding the tibia become inflamed. NSAIDs can help manage the pain and swelling experienced with this injury.
This is one of the many possible impact injuries that can be experienced, particularly in football or hand-to-hand sports such as boxing. A concussion is a traumatic brain injury that can occur from a direct impact to the head or body. Symptoms of a concussion can include headache, loss of consciousness, memory loss, and nausea. Recovery from a concussion requires both mental and physical rest. Concussions are regarded as quite dangerous in sportsmed, this is not an injury to take lightly. You need to receive clearance from a doctor before resuming sports.
Staying active is important in leading a healthy life, however precautions should be taken to avoid these types of injuries. There are a few ways to prevent injuring yourself when exercising and playing sports. Always use the correct equipment and make sure it has been maintained properly. Rest between workouts and games to allow your body time to recuperate. Listen to your body, if you are experiencing pain and discomfort you should take a step back. You may be pushing yourself too hard and could be on the verge of injuring yourself. Lastly, start off slow and work your way up to more difficult activities as you become stronger and more conditioned.
Sports injuries are common for athletes and people who like to stay active. There are quite a few injuries that can be incurred participating in these types of activities. Prevention is key in staying healthy and continuing your journey into athleticism.
