Lacrosse is a thrilling, fast-moving sport to both play and watch. Although the rules of the game differ between girls and boys, all athletes are prone to injuries as they dodge and dart across the field with sticks and solid rubber balls. Here are a few safety tips to keep you in the game all season long.
- Know Your Risks
During practice, the most for both boys and girls are:
- Ankle and knee ligament sprains
- Knee injuries, including ACL tears
- Strains of the hamstrings, quadriceps, and groin
- Shin splints and foot blisters
- Don鈥檛 Skimp on Protective Gear
While shopping for mandatory equipment, make sure the items fit well and meet . Add an extra layer of protection with various optional items that can be found in the .
- Stick with a Warmup Routine
Warm up your body with static (stretching) and dynamic (light jogging, lunging, etc.) exercises.
Pro tip: Build a solid pre-game routine by following the FIFA 11+ program, a series of warm-up exercises designed for soccer players.
- Get Your Game on Safely
The most serious injuries鈥攃oncussions, hand and lower-extremity fractures鈥攁re more prevalent during competitions when the adrenaline is pumping and crowds are cheering. Remember to practice good sportsmanship and respect the rules of the game to avoid injuring yourself and others.
- Watch Your Head
If a concussion is suspected, the athlete must leave the field immediately and be evaluated by a qualified health care professional. include confusion, loss of consciousness, memory loss, dizziness, and nausea.
How to Tell If It's Shin Splints or a Stress Fracture
Shin splints are common in athletes鈥攂ut persistent pain can signal something more serious. Learn how to recognize when it is time to rest, get checked out, and prevent a minor injury from turning into a major setback.
When a "Pop" Signals an ACL Tear: Diagnosis and Next Steps
Contact sports come with their share of risks鈥攂ut few injuries sideline athletes quite like a torn ACL. Whether you are an elite athlete, a weekend warrior, or just hoping to get back to hiking, learn how to protect your knees鈥攁nd what to do if they give out.
