Ice hockey is one kind of fitness sport and have lot of ice hockey health benefits as well. Since the 18th century, ice hockey has become a popular speedy game consisting of 12 players. As ice hockey is a combination of power, speed, and teamwork, Players face injuries when they skate on the ice. It won’t be a lie if I say that ice hockey injuries are very common in competitive sports. The main cause of ice hockey injury is the awkward fall on the ice and the minor reason is overuse. Players must be aware of the caused symptoms and signs of injuries. Let’s discuss the types of ice hockey injuries and treatments and how it can be prevented.
Some common ice hockey injuries :
ice hockey injuries statistics
#1. contusion: It occurs when the surrounding area receives blood from the injured capillary and blood vessel. According to medical science, Contusions are one kind of hematoma. It occurs in the muscle.
Symptoms:
- stiffness or swelling
- tenderness
Treatment :
- to take rest
- to compress
- to wear a temporary brace
- To take vitamin D and calcium.
#2 .Rotator cuff injuries :
Rotator cuff injuries are severe and it occurs in the shoulders.
Symptoms :
- Sudden pain in the shoulder
- Unable to sleep on the injured shoulders.
Treatment :
- To apply ice or a cold therapy compression wrap.
- To take rest.
Also read, Best Hockey helmet for maximum protection
3. Ankle Sprain :
Ankle Sprain is a very common ice hockey injuries nowadays. It occurs very recurrently. It damages the ligaments on the outside of the ankle.
symptoms :
- foot to be turned inwards
- Pain throughout the joint
- ankle joint swelled up.
Treatment :
- to take rest
- Ice therapy
- to use electrotherapy
4. Medial meniscus injury
Medial ligament sprain or MCL injury occurs inside the knee and it tears the ligament of the knee injury. This ice hockey injury can also occur through daily life falls and twists. It has many grades like 1,2, 3 depending on the severity of the injury.
Symptoms :
- to have some tenderness but no swelling
- knee to feel uncomfortable and weak.
- complete tear of the ligament
- knee is unstable.
Treatment :
- to apply ice and cold therapy wrap
- to take rest from any training
- to wear a compression bandage
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5.Groin strain :
A groin strain occurs in the abductor muscles and it results from the tear and rupture. A groin strain results in pain in the inner thigh. This injury varies from mild to severe.
Symptoms :
- Sudden sharp pain occurs in the inside of the thigh
Treatment :
- ice therapy
- massage
- stretching
- complete bed rest
- no training or practice
- Hamstring strain :
A hamstring strain called pulled hamstring results in a sudden sharp pain that takes place at the back of the thigh.
Symptoms :
- a twinge or tightness with a little swelling
- unable to continue the activities like playing and training as well.
Treatment :
- full rest is to be advised
- Running and playing are a big NO.
- Ice therapy, compression, and elevation as well.
- Dislocated shoulder:
Shoulder dislocation is one kind of ice hockey injury that is traumatic and painful. It results from falling on the iceberg. It causes huge damage to ligaments, tendons, and muscles as well.
Symptoms :
- sudden severe pain
- Rapid swelling
Treatment :
- To apply ice or cold therapy
- sling to be used to get the weight off the arm
8. AC joint sprain :
AC joint Separation called AC joint sprain occurs in the ligament and damages the tendons and other soft tissues as well. It causes shoulder deformity.
Symptoms:
- Severe pain taking place on the top of the shoulder.
- Widespread pain
Treatment:
- to apply of ice therapy
- also you can wear a sling to immobilize the shoulder.
How to prevent ice hockey Injuries
Injury prevention techniques are almost the same in every sport except in the chosen few sports. I don’t make longer my discussion let’s talk about the prevention strategies
Warm-up:
It is a very common strategy of prevention from an Ice hockey injury. It helps the athlete to make them healthy and refreshed. It increases blood circulation through the vein.
Protection:
To avoid injury in ice hockey a player must wear the perfect kind of equipment. Helmet, pads, and gloves are some kinds of protective equipment.
Abiding by the rules:
In ice hockey, players must abide by the set rules of the game. No foul play and no break of rules should be practiced.
Rest:
Taking rest is one of the important strategies to prevent ice hockey injuries. It pacifies the brain and nerves.
Training:
If any athlete gets proper training, he has less chance to fall at risk of ice hockey injury. Before moving into the game, one must have the training regarding the game.
Final verdict:
Ice hockey is a very much exciting game to play and watch as well. As ice hockey injury is a common phenomenon. Necessary steps to prevent ice hockey injuries should be taken. An athlete who falls into these injuries, must call for a physician and learn the caused symptoms and according to the physician’s advice, he or she should get the proper treatment. Sports are for entertainment. It refreshes one’s mind. Every athlete should play carefully and should not break the rules as every game requires a specific rule and regulation. Everyone must abide by the rules set for. Happy gaming, happy ice hockey.
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