You’ve probably seen those cringe-inducing images of athlete injuries at this year’s Summer Olympics. (Don’t worry, we promise not to show you any brutal broken bones.) Granted, the majority of us here in Naples don’t have to worry about breaking our leg in a landing after we complete two back flips off the vault. However, looking beyond those unfortunate incidences you will find that the majority of injuries Olympians suffer are the same ones that many of our patients do.
In a recent cnn.com article the head physician for John Hopkins University Department of Athletics, Dr. Andrew Cosgarea spoke on the most common injuries seen at the Olympics. He notes that overuse injuries are the most common. Overuse injuries can affect your back, neck, knees, shoulders, wrists, elbows, as well as hip and pelvis.
An Olympian who is injured due to repetitive strain will receive the same treatment as someone who visits us with an overuse injury. Treatment of an overuse injury involves a combination of physical therapy, anti-inflammatory drugs, and, in rare cases, surgery. With the proper treatment of an overuse injury an Olympian can be expected to land on their feet, and in competing form.
Wondering how to avoid overuse injuries?
1. Know your Limits
In these category you do have an advantage over the Olympians. One of the best ways to avoid this type of sports injury is to not take on too much too fast. Pushing your body to the limit may look inspirational in the movies, but in real life it puts you on the fast track to injury. Another way to find yourself with an overuse injury is repetition. Changing up your routine will help avoid repetitive strain.
2. Technique Training
Technique is also important in avoiding a sports injury. If you have begun a new sport it is recommended that you work with a trainer to learn the proper technique. A poor form can cause muscle strain, leading to an injury.
These are some of the most common conditions that our physical and occupational therapists here in Naples, Florida treat every day. So the next time you hurt your back overdoing it on the driving range just think, you’re experiencing an Olympic size injury.
