Engaging in daily sports activities such as rugby, tennis, football, hockey, cycling, skiing and snowboarding to name but a few can be so much fun. Nonetheless, active sportsmen/women are prone to different types of sports injuries. Here are the top 6 most common Sports Injuries
- Knee injuries
Knee injuries are quite common with footballers, sprinters, dancers, swimmers, rugby players, volleyball players, marathoners and basketball players, among others. In fact, about 55% of all sports injuries involve Patellofemoral Syndrome (knee pain) according to top orthopedic surgeons. Knee injuries can either be mild or severe, and can take up to 6 weeks to treat. Health experts recommend that knee injuries be rested at least 48 hours before engaging in any kind of movement. Knee injuries can be treated through anti-inflammatory medicine, therapy or orthopedic surgery depending on its severity.
- Shoulder Injury
Did you know that shoulder injuries make up for 20% of all sports injuries? This type of injury can occur as a result of engaging in any number of vigorous physical fitness activities. Fortunately, shoulder injuries are highly treatable through ice, anti-inflammatory medication and rest. Shoulder injuries can be prevented through engaging in strength-building physical fitness activities regularly.
- Hamstring Strain and sprains
You have probably heard of more than one football player who suffered a Hamstring injury while playing for a renowned local or international football team. Hamstring sprains/strains are also common with swimmers, and cyclists. Over-stretching or overusing the muscles/tendons can cause a severe/mild hamstring injury. Tendon/muscle tears can be quite painful for any athlete. Surprisingly, a hamstring sprain or strain can take up to between 6-12 months to heal. Hamstring injuries can have long-term negative effects on an athlete. These sports injuries can, however, be avoided through proper warm-ups, agility/strength generating exercises, and rest among other techniques.
- Concussion
Concussions can be very dangerous. This type of sports injury can be caused by head collusion, vigorous shaking, incidental impact accident, or falls. Concussions can lead to dizziness, headaches, nausea, and memory loss, insomnia and mood disorders, among others. Those associated with boxing, soccer, wrestling, rugby, hockey, MMA, horse riding, gymnastics, and skiing are the most notorious victims of concussions. While it is possible to subdue concussions through acetaminophen and rest, seeking medical attention from a reputable professional sports medicine expert is highly recommended.
- Groin injuries
This is one of the most painful sports injuries Internationally. Groin injuries are common in sports that require extreme movements including soccer, baseball, basketball, rugby, American football, and hockey. Inner thigh injuries can take between 1-2 weeks to heal properly. Groin injuries can cause extreme discomfort around the groin area. The best way of averting groin injuries is through proper and gentle muscles/tendons stretching. Seek medical assistance if symptoms persist.
- Hip Flexor Strain
Hip flexor strains occur due to torn muscles, tendons/muscles over-stretching, weak muscles, stiff muscles, accidents or falls. This injury can affect those active in virtually any high-energy sport. Hip flexor strains can be acutely painful. They can also cause serious swellings, bruising, spasms and movement difficulties. Many hip flexor injuries can be prevented through proper warm-ups and training.
The good news is that all the above sports injuries are treatable through anti-inflammatory medication, surgery, rest and ice depending on your doctor’s recommendations.
For more information about Lubbock Orthopedic Surgeon, Dr. Kevin Crawford, click below.
