Understanding sports injuries: An expert’s guide for patients

Sports injuries are a common occurrence among athletes of all levels, ranging from beginners to professional athletes. These injuries can have a significant impact on an individual's performance and overall well-being. In this comprehensive guide, one of the UK’s top sport and exercise medicine experts, Dr Ian Beasley, answers patients’ most frequently asked question.

Most common sports injuries

1. Sprains and strains:

• Sprains: Ligaments are stretched or torn, commonly occurring in ankles, knees, and wrists.
• Strains: Muscles or tendons are stretched or torn, often affecting the back, hamstring, and groin muscles.

2. Fractures:

• Breaks in bones, ranging from hairline fractures to complete breaks, typically caused by impact or excessive force.

3. Tendonitis:

• Inflammation of tendons due to overuse, often occurring in the shoulder, elbow, or knee.

4. Dislocations:

• Joint displacement, commonly seen in shoulders, fingers, and knees, usually resulting from sudden impact or awkward movements.

5. Concussions:

• Traumatic brain injuries caused by a blow to the head, leading to altered consciousness and neurological symptoms.

Prevention strategies

Preventing sports injuries involves a combination of proper conditioning, technique, equipment, and precautionary measures. Here are some key strategies:

1. Warm-up and cool down: Always engage in dynamic warm-up exercises before activity and incorporate stretching into your cool-down routine to prepare and recover muscles.
2. Proper technique: Ensure you're using correct form and technique during sports activities to reduce the risk of strain or overuse injuries.
3. Strength and flexibility training: Incorporate strength and flexibility exercises into your routine to improve muscle strength, endurance, and joint stability.
4. Appropriate equipment: Wear appropriate protective gear and equipment tailored to your sport to minimise the risk of impact-related injuries.
5. Rest and recovery: Allow adequate time for rest and recovery between workouts or competitions to prevent overuse injuries and promote tissue repair.

Treatment options

When sports injuries occur, prompt and appropriate treatment is essential for optimal recovery. Treatment options may vary depending on the type and severity of the injury but commonly include:

1. R.I.C.E. protocol: Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation help reduce pain, inflammation, and swelling in the initial stages of injury.
2. Physical therapy: Rehabilitation exercises and techniques aimed at restoring strength, flexibility, and function to injured tissues.
3. Medication: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may be prescribed to alleviate pain and reduce inflammation.
4. Bracing or splinting: Immobilisation devices may be recommended to stabilise and protect injured joints or bones during the healing process.
5. Surgery: In severe cases or for certain types of injuries, surgical intervention may be necessary to repair damaged tissues or stabilise fractures.

Sports injuries are a common risk for athletes, but by following proper prevention strategies and seeking timely treatment when injuries occur, individuals can minimise their impact and facilitate a smooth recovery. Remember to prioritise safety, listen to your body, and consult with a healthcare professional for personalised guidance and care. With diligence and attention to injury prevention, athletes can continue to enjoy their favourite sports activities while minimising the risk of injury.

Dr Ian Beasley is one of the UK’s most respect SEM experts. If you would like to book a consultation with Dr Beasley, you can do so today via his Top Doctors profile.