Athletes who compete in contact sports may sustain injuries such as concussions. These are common and can occur due to colliding with other athletes or sports equipment. These injuries rattle the brain within the skull and are often associated with various symptoms. Recently, media attention has focused on pro athletes who have suffered traumatic brain injuries. Read on to learn more about common sports injuries.
Shoulder instability:
Shoulder instability is one of the most common sports injuries and requires immediate physiotherapy. The most common form of treatment involves surgery, but some non-surgical options are available. Physical therapy is an effective treatment option for many athletes. Sports injury physiotherapy can help prevent or reduce pain from a shoulder injury.
Ankle sprains:
Ankle sprains are among the most common sports-related injuries, accounting for about one-fifth of all sports-related injuries. They are often treated with physical therapy, with the primary goal of minimizing pain, restoring strength, and allowing patients to resume normal activities. Although many athletes suffer from ankle sprains, many never receive the treatment they need.
Hamstring strains:
A hamstring strain is a painful muscle injury in the hamstring muscle belly. It occurs when a person overstretches the muscle during activity. Hamstrings are especially susceptible to injuries if they are engaged in sports requiring quick direction changes or high-speed running. A hamstring injury is often accompanied by poor leg flexibility and sudden pain in the buttocks or back of the thigh.
Hamstring strains are relatively mild injuries that often heal without surgery. Most sports-related injuries can be treated using the RICE (reduce, immobilize, compression and elevation) protocol. Initially, the affected area should be covered with a cold pack for 20 minutes. Compression is also recommended to minimize swelling and blood loss. Elevation of the leg may also help reduce pain and swelling.
Concussions:
The concussion symptoms are often mild at the onset and resolve within seven to ten days. However, a small number of athletes experience prolonged or long-lasting symptoms. This may result in headaches, fatigue, or a slow recovery. The best treatment for concussions is to rest the brain as much as possible, but it is also important to return to activity as soon as possible. To speed up the recovery process, physiotherapy can be utilized to set up a safe exertion program for the athlete.
