Sports Injuries

Sometimes athletes get hurt while playing sports. A sports injury can be a twisted ankle, a bruise, or a sore muscle. Most injuries are not serious and heal with rest and care.

Common Injuries

Some of the most common sports injuries are sprains and strains. A sprain happens when you twist a joint like your ankle. A strain is when a muscle gets stretched too far. Bruises happen when you bump into something or get hit by a ball.

Broken bones can happen too, but they are less common. Wearing the right gear and warming up can help prevent many injuries. If something hurts, it is important to tell a coach or parent right away.

Treating Injuries

For most small injuries, doctors recommend RICE. That stands for Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation. Rest means taking a break. Ice means putting a cold pack on the sore spot. Compression means wrapping it gently. Elevation means raising it up.

It is important to let your body heal before playing again. Coming back too soon can make an injury worse. Doctors and trainers can help you know when it is safe to play again.

Fun Facts

• The most common sports injury for kids is a sprained ankle.
• Wearing a mouth guard can prevent up to 200,000 dental injuries each year.
• RICE stands for Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation.

Did You Know?

Wearing the right shoes for your sport can prevent many foot and ankle injuries, which is why different sports have different types of shoes!