This is the second of two columns intended raise the level of consciousness and to educate coaches, players and parents about the importance of injury prevention. While most high school programs have certified athletic trainers on staff, I am more concerned with the youth football programs.
Tennis elbow, also called lateral epicondylitis, is an inflammation of the lateral (outside) bony protuberance at the elbow. The trauma is especially irritating when working the muscles in an awkward position with poor leverage such as hitting a backhand in tennis.
Hamstring strains are very common in football, both American and European. Each fall, as the season begins, many players suffer from pain in the back of their thigh when they pull or strain the hamstring muscle. New research shows that these injuries can be prevented by following a specifically designed intensive training program.
A groin strain is a tear of the muscle fibers of the groin muscle. This injury, like others, varies in intensity.
Eating disorders are becoming epidemic in athletes. This is the second of three columns addressing this topic.
Concussions occur when a person’s brain is violently rocked back and forth inside of the skull because of a blow to the head or neck. Severe concussion, although rare, can lead to brain swelling, blood vessel damage, and even death. There are serious repercussions of early return following even a mild concussion due to the long term effects of multiple mild concussions.
Cheerleading includes gymnastics, tosses, partner stunts, and pyramid building. These challenges pose increased risk of injury. Injury prevention and safety precautions are essential help prevent injuries.
Since 1980, cheerleading progressed to include highly skilled and competitive athletes. Increased injury rates occurred in response to this evolution. Research indicates that injuries increased 110% from 1990 through 2002, while participation increased only 18%.
Casts or splints are used to support and protect bones and soft tissues after injury or surgery. A broken bone or severe ankle sprains are two good examples. The immobilization provided by a cast or splint protects the injury, allows healing with proper alignment, and reduces pain, swelling and muscle spasm.
