Common Ailments: Sports Injury

Sports injuries are commonly caused by overuse, direct impact, or the application of force that is greater than the body part can structurally withstand.

There are two kinds of sports injuries: acute and chronic. An injury that occurs suddenly, such as a sprained ankle caused by an awkward landing, is known as an acute injury.

Chronic injuries are caused by repeated overuse of muscle groups or joints. Poor technique and structural abnormalities can also contribute to the development of chronic injuries. Medical investigation of any sports injury is important, because you may be hurt more severely than you think. For example, what seems like an ankle sprain may actually be a bone fracture.

Some of the more common sports injuries include:

Ankle sprain – symptoms include pain, swelling and stiffness.
Bruises – a blow can cause small bleeds into the skin.
Concussion – mild reversible brain injury from a blow to the head, which may be associated with loss of consciousness. Symptoms include headache, dizziness and short term memory loss.
Cuts and abrasions – are usually caused by falls. The knees and hands are particularly prone.
Dehydration – losing too much fluid can lead to heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
Dental damage – a blow to the jaw can crack, break or dislodge teeth.
Groin strain – symptoms include pain and swelling.
Hamstring strain – symptoms include pain, swelling and bruising.
Knee joint injuries – symptoms include pain, swelling and stiffness. The ligaments, tendons or cartilage can be affected.
Nose injuries – either blood nose or broken nose, are caused by a direct blow.
Stress fractures – particularly in the lower limbs. The impact of repeated jumping or running on hard surfaces can eventually stress and crack bone.