There is always a chance that you will get injured, whether you are an elite athlete or play sports for fun. Unfortunately, it can be hard to tell what injuries are and how to treat them. Let’s take a look at common sports injuries and their causes.
1. Patellofemoral Syndrome
One of the most common injuries athletes get is the patella, also known as patellofemoral syndrome. A muscle imbalance, slip, or knee joint swelling can cause this condition. The patella is a part of the thigh bone and ends at the end of the femur. When a fall onto the knee causes swelling, it can affect the two major muscles that help with the movement of the kneecap.
This imbalance can lead to more swelling, worsening the tracking problem. After a fall, rest and ice can help decrease swelling and pain. For people suffering from a knee injury, gentle exercises and stretches can help strengthen the inner and outer thigh muscles.
2. Shoulder Injury
A shoulder injury is a type of sports injury caused by various factors. Some of these include strains, dislocations, and misalignments. The shoulder is the weakest joint in the body, and it gets injured due to the force it receives during activities. Many shoulder injuries occur because of a lack of strength, stabilization, and flexibility. Rest and icing are the first steps in treating shoulder injuries.
3. Tennis or Golf Elbow
The tennis and golf elbow is a type of injury caused by repetitive actions. It can be referred to as an overuse injury. The repetitive motion can cause the tendons of the forearm to become inflamed, making certain hand or wrist movements painful. For athletes, one of the most common complaints is a lack of grip strength.
The initial treatment for these injuries is rest and icing the affected area. Usually, a doctor will administer anti-inflammatory medication to help decrease the pressure on the spot. To gradually strengthen the muscles, a physical therapist can perform various exercises.
4. Hamstring Strain
The hamstring is a muscle located on the back of the thigh. Unfortunately, it can become tight and susceptible to strains, which are also called pulled muscles. Poor stretching techniques and flexibility can lead to a hamstring tear. After a doctor has diagnosed a pulled hamstring, rest and icing are the first steps to treating the condition. Doing so can help decrease the pain and prevent it from recurring.
5. Sciatica
The pain known as sciatica can travel down the leg or even to the feet. It can also be associated with burning and numbness. It can be seen in people who engage in activities such as tennis and golf that involve a lot of trunk rotation. A pinched nerve or a bulging disc is the most common cause of this condition. Rest, stretching, and lying on your stomach are the most effective ways to treat it.