PUBLICATION MAGAZINE VOLUME ONE PEMBETULAN LGI (1) | Page 12

Sports Injuries: Types, Treatments,
and Prevention
Sports Injuries

Sports injuries are injuries that occur when
engaging in sports or exercise. Sports injuries
can occur due to overtraining, lack of
conditioning, and improper form or technique.
Failing to warm up increases the risk of sports
injuries. Bruises, strains, sprains, tears, and
broken bones can result from sports injuries. Soft
tissues like muscles, ligaments, tendons, fascia,
and bursae may be affected. Traumatic brain
injury (TBI) is another potential type of sports
injury.
Pulled Muscle
Muscle strain is another name for a pulled
muscle. It occurs when a muscle is overstretched
and tears. Symptoms of a pulled muscle may
include pain, swelling, weakness, and difficulty or
inability to use the muscle. Muscles in the
quadriceps, the calves, hamstrings, groin, low
back, and shoulder are the most common sites for
pulled muscles. Minor muscle strains resolve with
RICE -- Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation.
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
may help manage pain and swelling as well. More
serious muscle strains require evaluation and
treatment by a doctor.
Torn ACL
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The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) helps hold
the knee joint together and provides stability. A
torn ACL is a sports injury that may occur when
landing the wrong way, changing direction or
stopping quickly, or from a direct blow to the
knee. People who suffer a torn ACL may hear a
pop and then feel their knee no longer
functions. Pain, swelling, and loss of range of
motion are symptoms of a torn ACL. It may be
difficult to walk. A torn ACL needs to be
reconstructed surgically, usually using a graft
from another ligament in the patient's own body.
Significant rehabilitation is necessary to restore
the strength and function of the knee joint after
surgery. Depending on the age, health status,
and desired activity level of the patient, some
may not elect to have surgery.