Sports injuries occur when playing indoor or outdoor sports or while exercising. Sports injuries can result from accidents, inadequate training, improper use of protective devices, or insufficient stretching or warm-up exercises. The most common sports injuries are sprains and strains, fractures, and dislocations.
The most common treatment recommended for injury is rest, ice, compression and elevation (RICE).
Rest: Avoid activities that may cause injury
Ice: Ice packs can be applied to the injured area which will help to diminish swelling and pain. Ice should be applied over a towel to the affected area for 15-20 minutes four times a day for several days. Never place ice directly over the skin
Compression: Compression of the injured area helps to reduce swelling. Elastic wraps, air casts, and splints can accomplish this
Elevation: Elevate the injured part above heart level to reduce swelling and pain.
Some of the measures that are followed to prevent sports related injuries include:
Follow an exercise program to strengthen the muscles
Gradually increase your exercise level and avoid overdoing the exercise
Ensure that you wear properly-fitted protective gear such as elbow guards, eye gear, facemasks, mouthguards, and pads, comfortable clothes, and athletic shoes before playing any sports activity which will help to reduce the chances of injury
Make sure that you follow warm up and cool down exercises before and after sports activity. Exercises will help to stretch the muscles, increase flexibility, and reduce soft tissue injuries
Avoid exercising immediately after eating a large meal
Maintain a healthy diet which will nourish the muscles
Avoid playing when you are injured or tired. Take a break for sometime after playing
Learn all the rules of the game you are participating in
Ensure that you are physically fit to play the sport
Some of the common Sports Injuries Include:
Shoulder Injuries
Severe pain in shoulders while playing your favorite sports such as tennis, basketball and gymnastics may be because of torn ligament in shoulder or shoulder dislocation. These may be caused by overuse of shoulder while playing sports. Simple pain or acute injuries may be treated with conservative treatment and chronic injuries may require surgical treatment.