What Are the Most Common Sports Injuries?

Are you looking to get fit and active but want to avoid the injuries that come with sports? Running, lifting weights, playing one-on-one basketball – injuries can happen anywhere and at any time.

But what are the most common sports injuries? The good news is that you can take steps to avoid recovering from an injury that might leave you sidelined for months. Read on to learn more about the most common sports injuries and how you can protect yourself and stay safe.

Knee Injuries

Knee injuries are one of the most common sports injuries. Knee injuries range from minor to serious and can involve a single structure within the knee joint or multiple. Common knee injuries include ACL and Meniscal tears, Patellar Tendinopathy, MCL and LCL sprains, as well as knee bursitis.

Furthermore, Patellar Tendinopathy is inflammation of the tendon in the front of the knee and is often treated with activity modification and strengthening of the affected area. Know more on knee pain and prevent injuries by using proper technique and form, as well as proper warm-ups and stretching.

Back Injuries

These injuries can be caused by muscle strain, poor posture, or overuse of the spine. Common types of back injuries include bulging or herniated discs, sciatica, torn muscles, spinal stenosis, and spondylolisthesis.

Preventative measures can be taken to help minimize the risk of developing a back injury. These measures will depend on the type of sport being played and include making sure to warm up and stretch before any physical activity.

Furthermore, proper technique and form should be used during any physical activity to reduce the stress and strain on the spine and its surrounding muscles. Lastly, protective gear, such as a customized back brace, should be worn during intense physical activity to avoid straining the spine and its surrounding muscles.

Concussion

One of the most common sports-related injuries is a concussion. Sports concussion is caused by a bump or jolt that is strong enough to cause the brain to move rapidly inside the skull, often resulting in confusion, headache, or even loss of consciousness. Symptoms can last anywhere between a few minutes up to a few weeks.

Common causes of concussions include contact sports, hitting one’s head on the ground, or getting hit with a ball or other sporting equipment.

Elbow Injuries

Such injuries may occur due to overuse or overdoing certain activities, such as throwing a baseball or doing a jump shot in basketball. Repetitive motions and wear-and-tear can weaken the elbow’s tendons, ligaments, and muscles, resulting in a strain or sprain.

In addition to pain, symptoms can include swelling, stiffness, and difficulty moving the arm. Treatment usually involves rest, icing, compression, and elevation, as well as physical therapy to regain strength and range of motion in the joint. In some cases, surgery may be required.

Sports Injuries that Athletes Need to Know

Sports injuries are common, especially in highly active athletes. Prevention is key, as even minor injuries can have long-term effects. Strengthening muscles, warming up and cooling down before and after exercise, and using the proper equipment can help to prevent injury.

Consult a sports injury specialist if you are experiencing pain or discomfort. Get active, but be safe!

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