People of all ages are becoming more active and involved in exercise and organized sports. The more active people become, the greater the likelihood of experiencing some form of sports injury. Sports injuries happen for many reasons, including accidents, poor conditioning, overtraining and improper form. While any part of the body can be injured during sports or exercise, most injuries involve muscles, bones and the surrounding tissues.
Who's at Risk?
The National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, or NIAMSD, has identified children, middle-aged athletes and women as the three groups most likely to suffer a sports injury. Children's bones, muscles and ligaments are still developing, leaving them more susceptible to injury. As the body ages, it becomes less able to respond to vigorous activity; middle-age athletes commonly find this unavoidable fact at the root of their injuries. The rapid increase in the number of women participating in sports has led to an increase in injuries they experience. NIAMSD reports that female athletes have higher injury rates than men, and are six times more likely to tear an ACL than men.
Common Sports Injuries
Twisting, running and jumping associated with sports and exercise puts the body at risk for injury. According to MedlinePlus, common types of sports injuries include sprains and strains, knee injuries, swollen muscles, Achilles tendon injuries, shin pain, fractures and dislocations. The severity of each injury will vary on a case by case basis. To prevent further injury, athletes should stop participating at first sign of discomfort.
Acute and Chronic Injuries
Sports injuries are classified as acute or chronic. Acute injuries generally happen as a result of something occurring unexpectedly during activity, such as a sprained ankle, broken collarbone or dislocated finger. Signs of acute injuries include severe pain, swelling or an inability to put weight on the injured area. Chronic injuries result from overuse of a particular area and occur over a prolonged period; these injuries typically appear as a result of repetitive training. Symptoms of chronic injury may include dull aches, swelling and discomfort during activity.
Prevention
Taking proper steps to prepare the body for sports or exercise aids in the prevention of injuries. To prevent sports-related injuries, the Ohio State University Medical Center recommends warming up before physical activity, exercising different muscle groups, cooling down after strenuous activity, stretching, wearing proper shoes, strengthening abdominals to stabilize the back and allowing proper recovery time from previous injury before resuming sports.
Treatment
Continuing to participate in sports or exercise after injury can cause more damage. MedlinePlus recommends initial treatment of a sports injury begin with RICE--rest, ice, compression and elevation--to help relieve swelling, reduce pain and speed healing. Other treatments for a sports injury may include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, immobilization, surgery, rehabilitation and rest. Some sports injuries require additional treatment with electrostimulation to decrease swelling and relieve pain; ultrasound or massage might be used to increase blood flow and promote healing.
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