Sports injuries are becoming more common than ever and the reasons behind this trend vary. Some people blame modern sports' increased speed and intensity, while others point to the stress and pressure that athletes face. Still, a large number of people believe poor technique and lack of proper training are the culprits. However, that may not be the case every time. This blog aims to provide a complete understanding of the increasing rate of sports injuries by analysing factors such as speed, stress, and technique.

1. Speed

Speed is crucial for success in most sports. It is also the leading cause of most sports injuries. Sports such as football and basketball, where players need to sprint and run faster for longer periods, overexert their bodies resulting in injuries such as strains and sprains.

Moreover, when athletes move at higher speeds, they are most likely to experience reduced reaction times and decreased ability to adjust their movements, leading to mistakes that can cause injury. Additionally, athletes who engage in high-speed sports such as running, football and badminton, may have less time to recover between movements, leading to fatigue and an increased risk of injury. Also, the impact of collisions and falls can be greater at higher speeds.

2. Stress

Another factor that may contribute to the rise in sports injuries is stress. Athletes face a great deal of pressure to perform at a high level, which can, in turn, lead to physical and emotional fatigue.

Stress affects the body in various ways. For instance, athletes under stress tend to have reduced peripheral vision compared to their non-stressed counterparts. They are also more easily distracted and experience increased muscle tension, leading to fatigue, poor timing, and coordination, predisposing them to injury.

3. Technique

Lack of proper training and repetitive actions with poor technique is often associated with many injuries. This is because such actions place excessive pressure on certain joints or muscles, which increases the likelihood of injury. For instance, tennis elbow can result from poor backhand technique and can worsen over time.

Furthermore, poor technique can lead to acute injuries, particularly when using exercise machines in the gym. This can cause sudden stretching of a muscle or area of soft tissue, resulting in injury.

Play It Safe

Sports injuries are a common occurrence amongst both athletes and fitness enthusiasts. Some of the most common sports injuries include:

Sprain: Ligaments that connect bones can get stretched or torn

Strain: Muscles or tendons can get stretched or torn

Fracture: Bones can get cracked or broken

Dislocation: When a bone gets displaced from its actual joint

Tendinitis: Inflammation of tendons, often caused by repetitive motions

In case, you injure yourself while indulging in your favourite sport, keep yourself equipped with

First Aid Kit

To prevent sports injuries, it's important to:

●       Warm up properly before exercising

●       Wear appropriate gear and protective equipment

●       When practising exercises, use the correct posture and method

●       Rest and take breaks when needed

●       Maintain hydration and nutrition with a healthy diet

●       Seek medical attention if you experience any pain or discomfort

Modern sports have become faster and more intense than ever. As a result, athletes must take steps to protect themselves and reduce their risk of injury. This may include getting proper coaching and training, taking breaks when necessary, and listening to their bodies when they feel tired or in pain. By taking these steps, athletes can continue enjoying their sports while minimising their risk of injury. If you have any questions,

Consult Apollo’s Rehabilitation Experts

 

Medically reviewed by Dr Sonia Bhatt.