The Most Common Sports Injuries
- Category: Blog
- Posted On:
- Written By: Fox Valley Orthopedics
Everyone is at risk of sustaining a sporting injury, regardless of their athletic ability. However, incorporating stretching into your routine may help to reduce that risk.
Sprains
Sprains occur when a ligament is overstretched or torn as a result of trauma. Ligaments are connective the connective tissue that connect bones at a joint.
Symptoms may include:
- Pain and tenderness at the site of injury
- Swelling
- Bruising and discoloration
- Inability to move affected joint
- A “pop” sound that the time of injury
Strains
Strains happen when a muscle or tendon is overstretched or torn. Tendons are the connective tissue that links muscles to bones. Generally, strains tend to develop over time rather than as a result of a specific incident or trauma.
Symptoms of a strain may include:
- Pain and tenderness at the site of injury
- Muscle spasms
- Swelling
- Trouble moving the affected muscle
Breaks and Fractures
While bones are rigid supportive structures that help support the body, they do bend yield to a certain extent when external force is administered. However, when too much force is placed on bones, breaks and fractures occur. Broken bones are most commonly caused by direct trauma, overuse, or osteoporosis.
Common symptoms associated with a broken bone may include:
- Inability to move the affected area
- Swelling
- Bruising
- Visual deformity
Dislocations
Dislocations are joint injuries that happen when external force causes the ends of your bones to move out of position. Common symptoms of a dislocated joint include:
- Severe pain
- Swelling
- Visibly out of place
- Inability to move the affected area
Please note that experiencing a dislocated joint is considered a medical emergency. If you suspect that you may have sustained a dislocated joint, you should see an orthopedic specialist immediately.
