COMMON INJURIES ASSOCIATED WITH VARIOUS SPORTS

Running is becoming increasingly popular and is a great way to keep fit, however it can result in injuries, often caused by a sudden change or increase in workload or poor technique. Running injuries generally affect the ankles, feet, knees and hips due to its high impact nature. Read more about running injuries here.

The most known tennis injury is tennis elbow – however, despite its name is relatively uncommon in tennis players! Shoulder impingement and upper limb injuries are usually caused by high velocity and repetitive arm movements and are more associated with overuse. De Quervain’s tenosynovitis is a condition where tendons running through the thumb from the side of the wrist become inflamed, this may be caused by the grasping and gripping of the racquet. Lower limb injuries such as ankle sprains, knee pain and Achilles tendinopathies are commonly associated with tennis and are caused by the sprinting, sudden stopping, rotation and impact while playing.

Golf injuries are less common and the majority are typically caused by overuse. Lower back pain is one of the more common golfing injuries due to the slightly bent posture and twisting movement, this can also cause hip impingements. Medial epicondylitis, more commonly known as golfer’s elbow, can be caused by a poor swing movement or the grip used to hold the club.

Shoulder impingement and rotator cuff issues may also be experienced. Knee pain is less common but can occasionally occur due to the twisting and rotating while playing.

Most football related injuries are in the lower limbs. From foot and ankle issues such as Achilles tendinopathies or sprained ankles to knee injuries such as MCL sprains (Medial Collateral Ligament), ACL injuries (Anterior Cruciate Ligament) and meniscus tears, which are associated with the pivoting nature of football. Hamstring strains are another football related injury. Head injuries such as concussion can be caused by a collision while playing.

Rugby is a high speed, high impact sport which can cause injuries to most parts of the body. Neck injuries and strains can occur when a player is tackling or being tackled. A stinger is common rugby injury caused by a certain type of impact to the neck. The impact pinches or acutely stretches the nerves in the neck causing a stinging or burning pain and possibly neurological symptoms, which may radiate along the path of the nerve into the arm. Upper limb injuries such as shoulder dislocations, AC (acromioclavicular joint) sprains and thumb sprains are other rugby related injuries. Lower limb injuries can include hamstring strains and ACL injuries (Anterior Cruciate Ligament). As with football, head injuries and concussion can occur following impact

Skiing is a popular sport; however, muscle fatigue and soreness generally occur after a few days on the slopes, this can then lead to less control of movement and may cause injury. Skiing injuries are mostly related to the knee ligaments. MCL (medial collateral ligament) strains and ACL (Anterior Cruciate Ligament) injuries can be caused by a many number of movements, which result in impact or the twisting or pulling of your knee ligaments. High ankle sprains are another possible issue. Upper limb injuries such as fractured collar bones, AC joint sprains (acromioclavicular) and other shoulder injuries can occur.

Please get in touch if you have any questions or would like to make an appointment. Call us on 020 8332 6184 or email info@theforgeclinic.com. You can also book online.