SPORT INJURIES
Sports injuries are physical damages or harm that occur to the body during sports or physical activities such as running, jumping, throwing, football, or wrestling.
Types of Sports Injuries
- Sprains – Injury to a ligament caused by overstretching or twisting a joint.
- Strains – Tearing or overstretching of a muscle or tendon.
- Dislocations – When a bone is pushed out of its normal joint position.
- Fractures – A break or crack in a bone caused by impact or stress.
- Bruises – Discoloration of the skin due to internal bleeding from blunt force.
- Cuts – Breaks in the skin caused by sharp objects or rough surfaces.
- Concussions – Brain injury resulting from a hard blow to the head.
- Cramps – Sudden painful muscle contractions caused by fatigue or dehydration.
Causes of Sports Injuries
- Lack of warm-up before activity
- Overtraining or excessive pressure
- Poor playing surfaces or unsafe equipment
- Using incorrect techniques or posture
- Playing when tired or sick
- Lack of protective gear (e.g. helmet, shin guard)
- Collision with other players or obstacles
- Ignoring rules and safety guidelines
- Wearing wrong type of footwear
- Not resting between activities
Prevention of Sports Injuries
- Always warm up before and cool down after sports.
- Use correct techniques for each sport.
- Wear the right protective gear and clothing.
- Avoid rough or careless play.
- Drink water regularly to stay hydrated.
- Play on safe and well-maintained surfaces.
- Know your physical limits and rest when tired.
- Obey the rules of the game.
- Check and maintain sports equipment regularly.
- Get proper training and supervision.
First Aid Treatment for Sports Injuries
- Rest the injured part and stop further activity.
- Ice the area to reduce swelling and pain.
- Compress with bandages to prevent more swelling.
- Elevate the injured part above heart level.
- Clean wounds with antiseptic to avoid infection.
- Apply bandage or plaster to cuts.
- Do not move fractures or dislocations, use splint.
- Call for medical help when the injury is serious.
- Give painkillers only under adult guidance.
- Encourage the victim and keep them calm.