For many people, playing sports is a great way to stay active, have fun, and build relationships. However, sports can also be dangerous and cause serious injuries — injuries that our friends at LeMoine Physical Therapy have also noticed. Together with their physical therapy for sports clinic, we compiled a list of the top five sports that cause the most injuries which we both see come through our practices. Check out the sports below:
Football
Football is one of the most popular sports in the United States and with that comes a plethora of injuries. Football injuries are often caused by contact, twisting and falls. Common football injuries include sprains and strains to the ankle, knee and shoulder joints, along with concussions. ACL tears, meniscus tears, rotator cuff tears, and fractures can also be seen in football players. It is important to wear proper protective equipment while playing football to help prevent some of these injuries. Additionally, proper warm-up and cool-down exercises should be done prior to and after practices and games to help reduce the risk of injury.
Soccer
The most common soccer injuries are muscle sprains, ligament sprains, fractures and concussions. Sprained ankles are particularly common due to sudden changes in direction, and are often caused by contact with another player or the ball. Muscle strains are often caused by overexertion, as players try to make quick moves on the field. Fractures may occur when players collide with each other or with an immovable object such as a goal post. Concussions are also a risk, especially in youth leagues where headers are more frequent. In order to avoid injury while playing soccer, it is important to stretch before and after the game and to wear proper protective gear. Proper footwear and shin guards should be worn at all times, and headgear should be worn if your league permits it. It is also important to practice proper technique and to stay hydrated during long games.
Basketball
The most common basketball injuries involve the lower body, particularly the ankles, knees, and hips. Basketball players also commonly experience back pain, which can be caused by overuse or poor form while playing. Additionally, finger injuries are common due to the frequent handling of the ball and contact with other players. To reduce the risk of injury, basketball players should make sure they warm up before playing and practice proper form when playing. This includes using proper technique when shooting and avoiding bad habits like crossing their feet when running or jumping. Additionally, it is important to wear supportive shoes and clothing that can provide protection from injury. Finally, basketball players should always stay hydrated and take regular breaks during games or practices.
Hockey
Concussions are common among hockey players due to the physical nature of the game and the possibility of being hit in the head with a puck or stick. Concussions can cause long-term problems such as headaches, dizziness, difficulty concentrating, and memory issues. It’s important for hockey players to take preventative measures to reduce their risk of injury. Wearing protective gear such as helmets, face masks, gloves, shin guards, and elbow pads can help protect players from potential injuries.
Rugby
Rugby is an intense, physical contact sport that can cause a variety of injuries. Due to its high-impact nature, it is one of the most injury-prone sports in the US, and players should be aware of the risks associated with it. Common injuries include concussions, strains and sprains, broken bones, and dislocations. Proper technique and safety equipment are essential for minimizing the risk of serious injury.
If you are injured while playing your favorite sport, contact a clinic near you that specializes in physical therapy for sports.
