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Most common traumas in sport

Posted 2023-05-30

Sports injuries: Treatment and rehabilitation

Both professional and amateur athletes experience sports-related injuries, which can result in an inaccurate assessment of physical condition, failure to follow safety techniques, and excessive strain. The most frequently encountered injuries include fractures, muscle sprains, and ligament tears. The recovery time for most injuries typically spans several weeks to several months and requires supervision from rehabilitation specialists.

The most prevalent and hazardous injuries consist of the following:
  • Muscle strain: This injury arises from placing excessive stress or impact on a contracted muscle.
  • Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tear: It occurs when the knee undergoes excessive loading and displacement.
  • Achilles tendon injury: This injury is caused by an unsuccessful jump or landing, or by a direct blow to the tendon.
  • Epicondylitis (commonly known as tennis elbow): Excessive strain on the arms, elbows, and hands can lead to this condition.
  • Meniscus tear in the knee joint: This injury occurs when the joint experiences simultaneous flexion and rotation.
  • Dislocated tibia: Excessive stress on the leg can result in the dislocation of the tibia.
  • Stress fracture of the foot: This injury arises from excessive stress on the fifth metatarsal bone.

Injuries can happen in almost any sport, but they are particularly common in bodybuilding, hockey, soccer, figure skating, gymnastics, track and field, as well as extreme sports like snowboarding and alpine skiing. Various types of wrestling also pose a higher risk of injuries.
 

Rehabilitation after injury

Rehabilitation following an injury is tailored to each individual based on the type and severity of the injury. Sports injuries can be categorized into two groups: injuries that necessitate rehabilitation to regain normal daily activities and active physical participation, and injuries that result in disabilities requiring individuals to adapt to a new way of life. Examples of disabling injuries include spinal cord injuries and traumatic brain injuries.

While a cold compress may suffice in some cases, injuries falling under the purview of traumatology and orthopedics typically require surgical intervention and stabilization measures such as a plaster splint, brace, or bandage.

Rehabilitation commences after the acute phase of the injury and with the approval of the attending physician to engage in simple physical exercises. It is advisable to initiate rehabilitation therapy as early as possible.
 

Sports Traumatology and Orthopedics

When muscles are sprained, ligaments are torn, or fractures occur, the primary focus of rehabilitation is to enhance blood circulation, increase strength in the affected limb, and restore the previous range of motion. Rehabilitation plays a crucial role in preventing complications like muscle atrophy, joint stiffness, and post-surgical adhesions.

Physical therapists play a key role in sports injury rehabilitation, as they assess the patient's physical condition and select exercises that facilitate gradual recovery and alleviate pain. Various techniques and types of exercises may be recommended by the physical therapist. These can include therapeutic gymnastics, muscle weight exercises, PNF (neuromuscular tension) exercises, and exercises utilizing an exarte (a suspension system that creates an unstable base, thereby engaging the nervous system to stabilize the body by redistributing muscle work).

A senior physical therapist explains, "Exercise restores strength to the injured limb and muscles. It's important to consider that following an injury, the muscles are inactive for a period of time, leading to a loss of muscle tone. During physical therapy, we work on reestablishing stability in the muscles that support the injured limb, while also training the muscles above and below the injury site. Subsequently, we progress to functional training, gradually increasing the workload to restore the lost function in the patient. The ultimate goal is to regain all the functions the person had prior to the injury."

In the case of lower extremity injuries, the physical therapist may suggest dynamic walking with obstacles, on stairs, or on uneven surfaces. Initially, walking is facilitated using technical rehabilitation aids, and gradually the individual transitions to natural walking. It is crucial that a person with an injury starts standing and walking under the supervision of a specialist to prevent further harm and the development of an incorrect walking pattern.
 

Trauma of the spine or brain injury during sports

According to a senior physical therapist, individuals engaged in various forms of wrestling and extreme sports face a heightened risk of neurological injuries. For instance, a severe fall can result in a vertebral fracture that may lead to complete paralysis. In such cases, returning to sports is not feasible, and the person must adapt to using a wheelchair while relearning essential self-care skills.

Boxing athletes are particularly susceptible to brain injuries, including traumatic encephalopathy, which arises from repeated blows to the frontal lobe and is commonly referred to as "boxers' dementia." Research indicates that approximately 20% of professional boxers who regularly sustain head trauma develop traumatic encephalopathy, a degenerative and incurable condition.

Comprehensive rehabilitation for conditions like Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (CMT) and spinal cord injuries necessitates the involvement of a specialized team of professionals, including an attending physician, physical therapist, occupational therapist, caregivers, neuropsychologist, and other relevant specialists.
 

Sports injury prevention

To prevent re-injury and overuse injuries, it is crucial to provide patients with recommendations upon their discharge from the rehabilitation center. Here are some important preventive measures:
  • Warm up the muscles before engaging in sports activities and perform warm-up exercises.
  • Utilize appropriate protective equipment, such as kneepads, elbow pads, helmets, gloves, orthotics, or braces (if prescribed by an orthopedic surgeon).
  • Select high-quality athletic shoes that provide adequate support and cushioning.
  • Avoid excessive physical strain and overload on the body.
  • Adhere to all safety precautions specific to the chosen sport, including proper technique and following rules and regulations.


Conclusion

In conclusion, sports injuries can have a significant impact on athletes, both physically and mentally. However, with proper treatment and rehabilitation, individuals have the potential to recover and regain their strength and function. The rehabilitation process, under the guidance of physical therapists, plays a crucial role in restoring mobility, improving blood circulation, and preventing complications such as muscle atrophy and joint stiffness. By implementing the preventive measures mentioned earlier and maintaining a diligent approach to rehabilitation and recovery, athletes can minimize the risk of future injuries and continue to participate in sports safely and confidently. Prioritizing safety and taking proactive steps towards injury prevention is vital for long-term athletic performance and overall well-being.

It's worth noting that in addition to rehabilitation, there are various medications available that can help facilitate faster healing and aid in the recovery process. Our shop offers a wide range of products specifically designed for these purposes, partnering with reputable manufacturers such as Hilma Biocare, Somatrop-Lab, Beligas Pharmaceuticals, and Euro-Pharmacie. Currently, the products from the first two manufacturers are available, while the remaining two will be available in the near future. These products can provide additional support and contribute to a more efficient recovery process.


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