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Sports are a great way to get your heart pumping and find a community of built-in friends all at the same time! Unfortunately, playing sports also puts you at a higher risk of injury during games and practices alike. Let’s discuss some of the most common sports injuries so you know what to look out for!
AFC Urgent Care Waltham provides injury treatment for all patients who suffer from any broken bone or cut. We also conduct sports physicals to ensure your child is in proper health to reduce the chance of an injury.
Shin Splints
Shin splints are common for runners and soccer players or any sport that involves a lot of running or jumping. They can cause severe pain in the shin or tibia. Shin splints are small fractures in the shin bone due to repeated force against that area from jumping or running.
To prevent shin splints, try slowly easing into your running activities. To treat them, rest and ice are the best options, along with plenty of patience!
Concussion
A concussion is common in many different contact sports, and it’s not to be taken lightly. Dizziness, confusion, headache, and nausea are all signs of a concussion. A concussion is caused by a blow to the head that causes your brain to move back and forth inside your skull. Each case of a concussion is different, and anyone who may have a concussion needs to be evaluated right away to develop a treatment plan. Concussions can be prevented by wearing the proper safety equipment at every game and practice, with no exceptions.
Sprains & Strains
Muscle strains and sprains are the most common sports injury. These injuries usually heal on their own over time, but they will still cause discomfort and put an athlete on the sidelines during the healing process. A muscle strain can happen anywhere in the body. These injuries are most commonly caused by improper stretching before you begin playing or pushing yourself too hard and causing an injury from overuse. Know your body’s limits and take time to warm up before every game, and practice to prevent sprains and strains!
Dislocation
A dislocation occurs when a bone is forced out of the socket in your body. A dislocated bone is painful and results in swelling in the area. The dislocated joint should be held steady until it can be put back in place at a hospital or urgent care center. Ankles, knees, shoulders, hips, elbows, and jaws can all be dislocated, as well as fingers or toes.
Fractures
Bone fractures aren’t unique to athletes, but they are more common. A fracture can occur from overuse, misuse, direct force applied to an area, and more. Avoiding fractures comes down to following the safety guidelines, wearing the appropriate safety gear, and being careful. Any suspected fracture should be x-rayed to determine the severity of the fracture so proper treatment and healing can begin.
If you or a teammate has suffered a sports-related injury, rest the affected area and visit AFC Urgent Care Waltham for treatment!
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