{"id":580,"date":"2014-08-05T05:51:48","date_gmt":"2014-08-05T12:51:48","guid":{"rendered":"\/gymnastics_accidents_cause_86_000_injuries_annually\/"},"modified":"2024-01-11T05:02:30","modified_gmt":"2024-01-11T13:02:30","slug":"gymnastics-accidents-cause-86000-injuries-annually","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.tariolaw.com\/gymnastics-accidents-cause-86000-injuries-annually\/","title":{"rendered":"Gymnastics Accidents Cause 86,000 Injuries Annually"},"content":{"rendered":"

Every year in the United States, 86,000 injuries caused by gymnastics accidents<\/a> are treated in emergency rooms and doctor\u2019s offices. Gymnastics is a rigorous sport and the risk of injury only increases with the child\u2019s age and complexity of the routines. Although gymnastics-related injuries are not often severe, they should be seen by a medical professional to try and prevent chronic pain or muscle weakness that could lead to further injury.<\/p>\n

Common Gymnastics Accidents and Injuries<\/h3>\n

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In gymnastics exercises, the upper body is used as a weight-bearing joint which causes many injuries to the shoulder, elbow, and wrist:<\/h4>\n

Superior Labrum, Anterior-Posterior (SLAP) Lesions in the Shoulder<\/h4>\n

Labral tears (also called SLAP tears) most commonly occur during ring exercises. These tears are characterized by pain that seems to clear up but tends to recur when the activity is resumed. An MRI is sometimes used to establish a definitive diagnosis.<\/p>\n

Elbow Dislocation<\/h4>\n

A dislocated elbow occurs when the bones that form the elbow joint are displaced from their normal position. Dislocated elbows are typically caused when a gymnast breaks their fall with an extended straight arm. Dislocated elbows require immediate medical attention.<\/p>\n

Wrist Sprains<\/h4>\n

The wrist takes on a big load in gymnastics; often subjected to forces that can exceed twice the body weight. After a wrist injury, athletes should cut back on training hours and intensity and avoid activities that hurt the wrist over a six-week recovery period. A brace may be worn during this time to help immobilize the wrist.<\/p>\n

When gymnastics injuries happen to the lower body they are usually a result from a landing or dismount and involve the knee and ankle:<\/h4>\n

Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Injury<\/h4>\n

ACL injuries are caused when a gymnast lands \u201cshort\u201d or is over-rotated while tumbling, dismounting, or vaulting. Sometimes a \u201cpop\u201d is heard or felt followed by a swollen knee. An MRI is often performed to confirm an ACL injury. ACL reconstruction is often recommended for gymnasts who wish to return to full form.<\/p>\n

Achilles Tendon Injury<\/h4>\n

Gymnasts land and jump repeatedly and thus can suffer from a variety of injuries to the Achilles tendon located just above the back of the heel. Achilles tendinitis causes sore calf muscles and treatment often includes an initial ultrasound, stretching, activity modification, and calf exercises. In severe cases, foot immobilization may be recommended for seven to ten days.<\/p>\n

Lower Back Injuries<\/h4>\n

Low back pain and injuries are caused by muscle strain, ligament sprain, fracture, and\/or disc disorders. Low-back pain can worsen with activity, especially with extension movements, such as arching the shoulders backwards. Gymnasts often recover well with rest and physical therapy exercises. An MRI or a bone scan are often helpful to rule out more significant injuries.<\/p>\n

Foot and Ankle Injuries<\/h4>\n

Injuries to the foot and ankle are common in gymnastics but with varying degrees of severity. Signs of a serious foot injury include swelling, bruising and tenderness directly over the bones. Minor foot injuries will typically have tenderness limited to one side of the joint and lack significant swelling. Serious injuries should be seen by a medical professional and may require significant rest before returning to the sport while minor injuries may be resolved in a week. Protecting the ankle with tape or a brace can help speed recovery and reduce the risk for re-injury.<\/p>\n

Gymnastics Safety Tips<\/h3>\n

Along with the following safety tips, proper training techniques and the consistent use of safety equipment can help to prevent gymnastics related injuries:<\/p>\n