What are the Most Common Sports Injuries?
Over 3 million people were treated in emergency rooms for injuries from sports and recreational gear in 2021.
It’s common for people to injure themselves while playing sports. And while most of these injuries are minor, they can keep you out of commission until they heal.
Being aware of common sports injuries and how to prevent them can help keep you in the game. If you are wondering about common injuries when playing sports, this simple guide is for you.
Sprains
A sprain is a stretch or tear of ligaments. Ligaments are fibrous tissue that connects bones at the joints, such as the ankle and knee.
Sprains can happen when you jump, land awkwardly on an ankle, or twist your knee.
Pain, swelling, and bruising are common symptoms of a sprain. Treatment includes rest, ice packs, compression wraps, and elevation until the inflammation goes down.
Dislocations
Dislocations are painful injuries where the bone is pulled out of its socket.
A dislocated joint can occur when you fall on an outstretched arm, or when another player hits you on the shoulder or elbow. Symptoms may include pain and swelling around the joint, bruising, and difficulty moving your arm.
Treatment includes putting your arm back into place as soon as possible. Then wrapping it in an ACE bandage to stabilize it while healing occurs.
Concussions
A concussion is a kind of brain injury. It happens when the head is hit, or when the brain hits the inside of your skull.
The concussion signs and symptoms include difficulty concentrating, feeling dazed or confused, having headaches, nausea, and feeling irritable.
Treatment includes seeing a doctor, resting from physical activity, and mental exertion. You should also avoid alcohol or drugs, which can make symptoms worse.
Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is an inflamed plantar fascia. The plantar fascia’s a band of tissue that runs across the bottom of your foot.
The most common symptom is pain in your heel or arch, especially after you get up from sitting for a long time.
Treatment includes resting, icing, and stretching. You may also need to wear shoes with good arch support and use over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drugs.
Shin Splints
Shin splints are a painful condition that occurs in the muscles and tendons of your lower legs.
The most common symptoms of shin splints are pain and tenderness along the inside edge of your shins. You may also feel pain when you run or walk uphill.
You can treat shin splints with rest, icing, massage, compression wraps, and stretching exercises.
Common Sports Injuries: Take Precautions to Prevent Them
If you play sports, you may experience common sports injuries.
The best way to prevent these injuries is by wearing the right gear and playing in a safe environment. Warm up before you play, stretch after each game or practice, and take time off if necessary.
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