Being active and participating in sports is a real boon for the body, but sometimes you can injure your body and if not treated properly or on time that can have a long-lasting effect. Luckily, the most common injuries in sports are easily treatable, either by going to the doctor, seeing a chiropractor, or if you know what you’re doing – by yourself. Here are a few of the most common sports injuries.
Ankle Sprain
A common injury among athletes, it typically occurs when the foot turns inward. This turning stretches or tears the ligaments on the outside of the ankle, which are relatively weak. Exercising is important to prevent loss of flexibility and strength, and re-injury as well. But it’s important to consult with a professional, so as not to do the wrong exercises.
Groin Pull
Pushing off in a side-to-side motion causes strain on the inner-thigh muscles, and is a common injury among hockey, soccer, football, and baseball players. Compression, ice, and rest are all a must when it comes to treatment, because if you return to activity soon after injury you risk a long-term problem. If you have significant swelling then it’s definitely time to see a professional.
Hamstring Strain
The hamstring is on the back of the thigh and is formed by three muscles that can be over-stretched when hurdling. Falling forward while waterskiing is also a common cause that causes hamstring strain. The best method for recovery is long and extensive rest, but because those muscles are active when walking it can be quite difficult to heal and can take up to a full year.
Tennis Elbow
When making repeated use of the elbow, such as in tennis or golf, the tendons in the elbow get irritated or even tiny tears. The outside of the elbow is where the pain will be most concentrated, and it usually occurs to 30-60 year-olds. Resting is key to recovery, but chiropractic treatment for tennis elbow is also incredibly efficient.
Knee Injury: ACL tear
ACL means the anterior cruciate ligament, and it’s the ligament that holds the leg bone to the knee. Sudden stops or getting hit from the side can strain, and even tear the ACL. Many athletes dread the “pop” sound that happens when the ligament tears. Even if you only suspect you have ACL, do yourself a favor and check in with a professional. If the ligament tears completely, then a surgery is necessary if you want to remain active, but even if it’s not torn, it’s considered the most severe common sports injury.
Shin Splints
When running for an extended period of time, especially on paved roads, or when doing more strenuous training programs, the frontal parts of lower legs can hurt, hence the name shin splints. Resting and over-the-counter pain medicines help, but if the pain persists even after resting and taking medicine, then definitely consult with a professional.
Getting injured during sports is an incredibly common occurrence for many people, but if it doesn’t get treated immediately then you risk more serious and sever problems over the course of your life. It’s important to always consult with a professional even if you don’t have any serious issues, because it’s better to prevent rather than heal.
