Sports injuries are part of the game or training; an athlete is always at risk of injury while participating in any athletic or sporting event.
Sports injuries occur while playing indoor and outdoor sports, training, or recreational exercise. Sports injuries can result from accidents, inadequate training, improper use of protection devices, or insufficient stretching or warm-up exercises. The most common sports injuries and sprains and strains, fractures, and dislocations.
The most common treatment recommended for common sprains and strains 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 or similar cloth to the affected area for 15-20 min four times per day for several days. Never place ice directly over 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 the heart level to reduce swelling and pain
Some of the measures that are followed to prevent sports related injuries include:
- Follow and exercise program to strengthen the muscles
- Gradually increase your exercise level and avoid overdoing the exercises
- Ensure that you wear properly-fitted protective gear such as elbow guards, eye gear, facemasks, mouthguards, pads, comfortable clothes, and athletic shoes before playing any sports activity which will help reduce the chances of injury
- Make sure that you follow warm up and cool down exercises before and after sports activity which will help to reduce the chances of injury
- Avoid exercising immediately after eating a large meal
- Maintain an 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 before you begin participation
- Ensure that you are physically fit to play the sport
Fractures of the femur bone, labral tear, and hip dislocation are some of the more common sports injuries affecting the hip. The hip joint bears more weight and is more susceptible to injuries while playing sports. Hip injuries require immediate medical intervention to avoid further complications. Rehabilitation programs and physical therapy is also often recommended following the medical intervention where you need to perform certain exercises to strengthen the muscles and improve the movements.