10 Common Sports Injuries Seen in Sports Medicine

The field of sports medicine is experiencing steady growth. A recent report noted that the sale of devices used to treat such injuries is expected to grow to over $8 billion in four years from now. Those who work in this field see many of the same types of injuries repeatedly; here are the ten most common.

Concussions are most commonly seen in contact sports and occur when a significant blow to the head causes nausea, double vision, and dizziness. Concussions can be either mild, moderate, or severe and require rest and, in some cases, physical therapy to recover completely.

The rotator cuff of the shoulder is made up of a group of muscles that allow the arm to stretch upward or outward. When the muscles are overextended from the repeated motions of certain sports, they can become inflamed and painful. Physical therapy and anti-inflammatory drugs are used to treat this injury.

Adelphi University reports that general managers in the field of sports have many duties, and one of the most important is ensuring the health and well-being of their players. One common sports injury that may result from improper coaching or a lack of management is tennis elbow. This injury occurs most often in tennis and golf, when players are not taught the proper way to swing a club or racket. Cortisone treatments and proper training are usually effective treatments.

A torn anterior cruciate ligament is commonly seen in football and basketball. This tendon usually tears when a player’s leg changes direction or pivots suddenly. This can be a serious injury that may require surgery and months of physical therapy to repair.

A groin pull is common in football, basketball, and hockey, where sudden directional changes are numerous. Pain and bruising are typical symptoms. Rest and anti-inflammatory medications can reduce pain and swelling.

The hamstrings, which are in the back of the leg and above the knee, are vulnerable to tears. Football, soccer, and basketball players can all experience this injury. Sudden increased speed can cause the tear. Rest, leg elevation, can be used in treatment.

Pulled muscles are quite common in almost any sport. A muscle pull can occur during a fall or from overextension. Rest and the application of ice to the muscle usually relieves the pain.

Shoulder dislocation is most often seen in high-impact sports and in weightlifting. The shoulder pops out of its socket and causes severe pain. The arm must be pushed back into the socket and cold compresses can be applied afterward.

While medical technology is constantly evolving, such as Adelphi Online reports, many of the sports injuries sports medicine professionals encounter every day do not change, such as eye injuries. Even with the use of protective gear, corneal injuries and detached retinas can still occur. Surgery is usually required to repair the damage.

Shin splint pain is usually seen in runners who run on hard ground or long distances. The muscles around the shin bone become inflamed and painful. Stretching and anti-inflammatory medications may help ease pain.

Many common sports injuries can be prevented. Wearing proper equipment, training, and warmups are all essential elements of staying healthy in the world of sports.