Athletes can be injured in literally hundreds of ways, but at our Phoenix
urgent care clinic, we see some injuries more than others.
Common sports injuries can be prevented, but if you or a family member
has an injury, its important to get it checked out.
Here are five of the most common sports injuries:
Knee Injuries
It’s estimated that over half of all sports injuries involve the
knee joint. Especially in high-impact sports like soccer, football and
basketball, torn ligaments and cartilage are common. Additionally, endurance
athletes like runners and cyclists can develop overuse injuries to the
kneecap. To help prevent knee injuries, replace your shoes regularly and
consider sports insoles for more support. Also, be sure to warm up properly.
Shoulder Injuries
Injuries to the shoulder are very common in swimming, weightlifting, baseball
and volleyball. These sports all involve overhead movement. Over time,
the shoulder’s rotatory cuff can actually loosen. The symptoms of
this condition can include stiffness, pain and weakness. One of the best
ways to prevent shoulder issues is to strengthen the muscles themselves
with special exercises. Anti-inflammatory medications can be helpful as
a treatment for minor injuries.
Ankle Injuries
Ankle sprains and injuries are common in sports like basketball and soccer.
Sports that involve a lot of running and jumping movements are especially
likely to cause these kinds of injuries. Tendon and ligament problems
are common. Fractures are possible and can be diagnosed with an X-ray.
Home treatment of ankle injuries usually includes rest, ice, compression
and elevation, as well as over the counter anti-inflammatory drugs.
Lower Back Injuries
Especially for “weekend warriors”, lower back problems can
be a real problem. Since many of us sit for hours every day, our backs
may already be weak, somewhat injured or imbalanced. Participating in
sports like running, golf, tennis and baseball can cause different kinds
of back problems, from bulging discs and back spasms. A proper warm up
can go a long way toward preventing back strains and injuries.
Pulled Muscles
Especially from lack of a proper warm up, painful pulled muscles can occur.
Hamstring pulls are common, since these muscles are often tight in the
general population. You can pull a muscle anywhere in your body, especially
if you are not flexible in that area. It is important to let pulled muscles
heal before returning to activity.