Summer is finally here! Kids are out of school and summer sports are in full swing. These hot months between May and September are some of the most fun of the year, so you don’t want to be injured during them! Here’s a list of the five most common summer sports injuries and how to prevent them.

1. Groin Strain

This is very common in sports that require constant motion, such as soccer, basketball and tennis. A groin strain is usually caused by suddenly changing direction, and causing your ligaments to stretch outside of their normal range of motion. Symptoms: Pain and tenderness on the inside of the thighs. Treatments: Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation (R.I.C.E.) accompanied by over-the-counter pain killers.

2. Ankle Sprain

This is one of the most common sports injuries. An ankle sprain happens when the foot twists or rolls beyond its normal range of motion. Symptoms: Can range anywhere from minimal tenderness and swelling to severe swelling, discoloration, and instability. Treatments: R.I.C.E., for the less severe symptoms, immobilization for the more severe cases.

3. Shin Splints

These can be very painful, and often occur in runners and dancers. Shin splints are caused by irritated and swollen muscles, brought on by overuse. They can occur when a runner changes the intensity of their workout, or the surface on which they run. Poor footwear can also be a cause of shin splints. Symptoms: Aching and throbbing in your shins, limited mobility, and possible swelling. Treatments: Lots of rest, ice, and anti-inflammatory medicine.

4. Shoulder Injuries

As shoulder injuries tend to happen when swimming or playing tennis, the summer months are the peak of shoulder injuries. Most shoulder injuries are due to overuse, and affect the rotator cuff, causing strains, sprains, or dislocations. Symptoms: Pain in shoulder, loss of range of motion, stiffness, and weakness. Treatments: Depending on the severity of the injury, treatment can range anywhere from ice and rest to possible surgery. If your shoulder is injured, visit a chiropractor ASAP for nonsurgical options.

5. Concussion

A concussion is an injury to the brain usually caused by a hard hit to the head. These mostly occur in contact sports, and don’t always result in unconsciousness. If your child sustains a blow to the head, it’s always a good idea to get check out for a concussion. Symptoms: Disorientation, nausea, headache, dizziness, amnesia, difficulty concentrating. Treatments: The best treatment for a concussion is rest and anti-inflammatories, and could result in a break from sports for up to a few months.

All of these injuries are preventable. However, we do know that sports can be unpredictable. If one of these injuries happens to you or your child, come visit us at the Chiropractic Center at Styertowne.