Football is the most popular sport in the world, and it’s also the most dangerous.
According to a study by the National Safety Council, football is responsible for the most injuries of any sport in America. An estimated 455,449 injuries are sustained each year while playing football.
While most people know that football can be dangerous, many don’t realize just how dangerous it can be. Football injuries can occur at any time during play and range from minor bruises and scrapes to life-threatening head injuries.
Read this blog post to learn more about the most common sports injuries and how to avoid them.
Knee Ligament Injuries
These injuries can occur during contact sports like soccer, basketball, and football.
The knee is especially vulnerable to injury because it’s a hinge joint that connects your thigh bone (femur) and shinbone (tibia). When these bones move apart from each other, they put pressure on their surrounding ligaments, causing tears or strains.
The best way to avoid knee ligament injuries is to wear protective gear such as knee braces and pads. You should also avoid making sudden changes in direction or jumping too high.
If you do sustain a knee ligament injury, seek medical attention immediately.
Concussions
Concussions occur when a sudden force is applied to the head, such as a football tackle.
Symptoms of a concussion include headaches, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, and confusion. You should seek medical attention if you suspect you have sustained a concussion.
Concussions can be serious and even life-threatening if not treated properly. Do not return to play until you have been cleared by a doctor.
Ankle Sprain
Ankle sprains occur when one of your ligaments tears away from the bone in your ankle.
This injury is extremely painful and will usually leave you with limited mobility and swelling around the injured area. If left untreated, it could lead to chronic ankle pain that lasts for months on end.
To prevent this type of injury, you should wear ankle braces and make sure you stretch properly before playing. If you do suffer an ankle sprain, ice the injured area and elevate your foot as much as possible.
If you’re still experiencing pain or swelling after a few days, see a doctor for further treatment.
Hamstring Strain
Hamstring strains are one of the most common basketball injuries.
They occur when one or more of the muscles that run along the back of your thigh tears. This injury is caused by a sudden burst of speed or an unexpected change in direction.
Hamstring strains can sideline you for weeks, so it’s important to take care of them as soon as possible. Rest, ice, and compression are key when it comes to healing hamstring strains. You should also avoid putting any weight on the injured leg.
If symptoms persist after a few days, see a specialist like Star Orthopedics for further treatment.
Avoid the Most Common Sports Injuries
Injuries are a part of sports, but that doesn’t mean you have to accept them. Follow these tips to avoid the most common sports injuries. But if you do get injured, seek medical attention immediately.
Keep tabs on our blog for more health and sports advice.
