The Most Common Sports Injuries And How To Avoid Them

The majority of sports injuries are caused by accidents whilst exercising or taking part in activities. Whilst many injuries are more likely than others, any part of the body can be injured. The most common sports injuries are outlined below.

Sprains and strains are very common in sports. Symptoms of such an injury include quite severe pain, swelling and bruising, and complete loss of strength and mobility in the affected area. The cause of such an injury is due to tears and overstretching of the muscle tendons and ligaments. These are easily treated with anti inflammatory medication, though rest and the application of an ice pack are often all that is needed.

Another type of common sports injuries; that will affect any sportsman or woman throughout their activities are blisters. Small serum filled swellings; blisters are caused by the friction of skin against harder materials such as clothing or sporting equipment. These are also easily treated with medication, and many experienced athletes use petroleum jelly to help lubricate commonly affected areas such as hands and feet.

Many other common sports injuries are named after the sport they are most associated with; such as Tennis and Golfer's Elbow. These are very similar injuries, caused by the repetition of movement to a certain area of the body. Symptomatic of such a complaint is severe pain and swelling. However, whilst very painful, they can be treated effectively with anti inflammatory drugs or cortisone injections direct to the affected area.

Common sports injuries are generally caused by a failure to warm up properly before exercising. Professional competitors will spend up to an hour with a warm up routine before training or competing, whilst warming down after exercise is just as important. Another way to ensure you a best protected from injury, is to follow all safety guidelines with equipment used, and understand the risks you are putting yourself under.