What Makes Concussion A Terrible Sports Injury?
In the field of sports science, concussion is often viewed as a serious condition because it is subtle in nature and may have long-term effects. The term “concussion” is often used interchangeably with the term “mild traumatic brain injury” (mTBI), however, its complexity and the effects on the nervous system can be much more serious than what meets the eye. How Brutal Concussion Can Be? The subtlety of concussion is one of the most disturbing features of this injury, especially in the world of sports. In as many as 90% of concussion cases, there is no loss of consciousness and many concussions go undiagnosed or unrecognized. Athletes may continue to participate in activities without knowing they have an injury. This is intimidating because such an interruption to normal brain functioning with no detectable structural abnormality on CT or MRIs from a concussion occurs. Thus, teaching athletes, coaches and trainers about the mostly invisible nature of brain injuries in sports remains to be crucial work in the sciences of sport. Metabolic And Physiological Impact Of Concussion The brain’s reaction to concussion entails a cascade of metabolic, physiological and microstructural changes that affect normal brain function. In the acute stages after the injury, neurotransmitters are released and brain metabolism slows down, which causes an energy crisis and reduces cerebral blood flow. These changes in brain metabolism and circulation can persist for days even though the symptoms themselves might have subsided. This process requires detailed understanding in the lines of sports science and recovery protocol for athletes. India, having drastically proliferated sports science in recent years, it is of utmost importance to understand and treat metabolic effects of concussion for an athlete’s safety. Long-Term Risks Of Repeated Concussions Another reason concussion is such a terrible sports injury is the long-term consequences of repeated head trauma. While one concussion may clear up in a few weeks, repeated concussions can lead to chronic conditions like Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE). CTE is a neurodegenerative disease that has been associated with mood disorders, cognitive impairments, and dementia, and it can be several years after multiple concussions. In sports injuries, particularly in contact sports, this points to the need for proper management and prevention strategies. Mechanisms Of Concussion Concussion occurs through acceleration forces, which are acting linearly as well as rotationally on the brain. Rotational forces cause maximum damage in terms of shear stresses, resulting in deformation of brain tissue, leading to axonal injury. Mostly diffuse axonal injury is provoked that is not evident in the eyes, however, its impact will continue for a very long time. An understanding of the contribution of concussive forces in its onset can also improve the enhancement of the protective features and better safeguarding measures at sports events through better safety precautions. Risk Of Second Impact Syndrome It is a significant danger of SIS, which can simply be said to be a phenomenon that occurs during which a person is hit by a second concussion before a total recovery from the first concussion. SIS most often results in devastating cerebral swelling and even proves fatal. Although very rare, SIS reminds everyone how dire proper diagnosis, rest, and monitoring for an athlete who has experienced a concussion are. Proper concussion management protocols are required in sports science, especially within the growing field of sports science in India. Addressing Concussion In Sports Concussion is the worst sports injury since it often appears invisible, leads to permanent damage to the brain and in case it is not handled well, its results can be quite severe. Sports science helps us understand the intricacies of concussion and its impact. Proper recognition, diagnosis and management of concussions are important for protecting athletes’ health in the short and long term, especially in sports environments where injuries in sports are a common concern. Through awareness and effective strategies, athletes can be better protected from the devastating effects of concussions. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
Shin Splints: A Runner’s Bane
What Are Shin Splints? Shin splints, formally known as medial tibial stress syndrome, is a common overuse injury that affects the muscles and tendons along the shinbone (tibia). This condition is particularly prevalent in runners and athletes who engage in activities involving repetitive stress on the lower legs. Mechanism Of Injury Shin splints occur due to repetitive stress on the muscles and tendons attached to the shinbone. This stress can be exacerbated by various factors, including: Symptoms Of Shin Splints The primary symptom of shin splints is pain along the inner edge of the shinbone. This pain typically worsens with activity and improves with rest. Other common symptoms include: Diagnosis Of Shin Splints A healthcare provider can usually diagnose shin splints through a physical examination and a review of your medical history. In some cases, imaging tests like X-rays may be necessary to rule out other conditions. Treatment Of Shin Splints The primary goal of treatment is to reduce pain and inflammation and allow the injured tissues to heal. Common treatment approaches include: Preventing Shin Splints To prevent shin splints, consider the following tips: By following these preventative measures and seeking early treatment, you can effectively manage shin splints and avoid future occurrences. The Sportz Planet Exclusive,Dr. Amol Patil Consultant Sports PhysicianFormer Team Doctor (Indian Boxing Team) | Former Consultant MY&S (Mission Olympic Cell)
Posterior Cruciate Ligament (PCL) Injury: A Less Common Football Injury
The posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) is one of the four primary ligaments that stabilize the knee joint. It plays a crucial role in preventing excessive backward movement of the tibia (shinbone) relative to the femur (thighbone). Mechanism of PCL Injury PCL injuries commonly occur due to a direct blow to the anterior aspect of the tibia, often sustained during high-impact sports like football or skiing. This forceful impact can drive the tibia posteriorly, resulting in a stretch or tear of the PCL. Other mechanisms of injury include: Clinical Presentation Patients with a PCL injury often present with the following symptoms: Diagnosis A comprehensive clinical examination, including a detailed history and physical examination, is essential for diagnosing a PCL injury. Key physical examination findings may include: Management The management of PCL injuries primarily involves conservative treatment, including: Return to Sport The decision to return to sports activities after a PCL injury should be made on a case-by-case basis, in consultation with a sports medicine specialist. A gradual and progressive return-to-sport protocol is essential to minimize the risk of reinjury. Conclusion While less common than ACL injuries, PCL injuries can significantly impair knee function and athletic performance. Early diagnosis and appropriate management are crucial for optimal recovery and return to sport. A comprehensive rehabilitation program, under the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional, is essential for regaining full function and minimizing the risk of long-term complications. The Sportz Planet Exclusive,Dr. Amol Patil Consultant Sports PhysicianFormer Team Doctor (Indian Boxing Team) | Former Consultant MY&S (Mission Olympic Cell)
Groin Strain: A Footballer’s Nightmare
A groin strain is a common injury among footballers, often occurring during explosive movements like sprinting, cutting, or kicking. It’s a frustrating setback that can side-line players for weeks or even months. Understanding The Mechanism Of A Groin Strain A groin strain typically involves a tear in one or more of the adductor muscles, located on the inner thigh. These muscles are crucial for stability and power during various football movements. The injury often occurs when these muscles are suddenly stretched or contracted beyond their capacity. Common Causes Of Groin Strains In Football Symptoms of a Groin Strain Treatment And Recovery If you suspect a groin strain, it’s essential to seek medical attention promptly. A sports medicine professional can accurately diagnose the injury and recommend an appropriate treatment plan. Typical treatment strategies include: Preventing Groin Strains To reduce your risk of groin strains, consider the following preventive measures: By understanding the causes and prevention strategies for groin strains, footballers can minimize their risk of injury and stay on the field. The Sportz Planet Exclusive,Dr. Amol Patil Consultant Sports PhysicianFormer Team Doctor (Indian Boxing Team) | Former Consultant MY&S (Mission Olympic Cell)
More On Back Injury That Forced Naomi Osaka To Withdraw From Japan Open
Naomi Osaka announced that she would not compete in this week’s Japan Open due to a back injury that has also forced her to retire from her last match at the China Open in Beijing. Osaka’s Back Injury At 26, Osaka has shown great form to live up to expectations. However that momentum didn’t carry over into reality as Osaka was matched up against eventual champion Coco Gauff in the last 16, retiring after the second set due to worsening back pain. Osaka complained of a locked back during a practice session prior to playing Gauff so was unsure if she could even play. Despite her willingness to have a go, she aggravated within the context of the game and had to withdraw. Background Information on Back Injuries Back injuries are usually a common and recurring medical problem with athletes, more so with high impact sports like tennis. The injuries can be caused by muscle strain, ligament sprain, herniated discs, or even stress fractures. Common symptoms involve local pain, stiffness, spasm, and loss of motion. Acute injuries occur suddenly with intense activity, while chronic injuries develop gradually from cumulative insult or poor biomechanics. Such is the case of Osaka, whose sudden withdrawal speaks to the vulnerable nature of the back, which easily compromises performance as well as overall well-being. Potent Remedial Measures The most effective treatment for acute injuries to the back will often involve a multi-factor approach. Above all, the athlete must rest; this can help prevent further damage as the body rehabilitates itself. Often, athletes are advised to cease participating in activities that worsen the condition, usually for a number of days to weeks depending on the severity of the injury. Ice therapy assists in the reduction of inflammation while also numbing the area, and heat therapy promotes blood flow and relaxes tight muscles that could be painful. Role of Physical Therapy The level of recovery is helped by physical therapy with a specific program that could focus on strengthening the muscles in the core and the back, improve flexibilities, and enhance stability in general. Techniques may include manual therapy, ultrasound, and specific exercises to help eliminate pain and restore normal function. Secondly, stretching routines can facilitate flexibility and reduce risk of future injury. Medications and Gradual Return to Activity Medication also forms a part of treatment. Analgesics such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, purchased over the counter, can comfort from pain and reduce inflammation. If the athlete experiences intense pain, health care providers will prescribe muscle relaxants or corticosteroids. The athlete needs to progress gradually towards normal activity. Swim or cycle to maintain a condition without too much stress on the back. Sport-specific training, introduced gradually after the pain subsides with professional assistance, is crucial in avoiding re-injury. It is a pity for the fans, but she deserves care and concentration on recovery to come back stronger from this moment on. The whole world of tennis will literally watch her recover and start leading up to the competitions with all the hopes she would return as soon as possible and as strong as possible. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
Understanding Whiplash: The Injury That Stunned Harmanpreet
The Indian Women’s Cricket Team had an upper hand over their arch rivals, Pakistan as they picked up those two points in their recent fixture at the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024. However, the win came at a massive cost of Indian skipper, Harmanpreet Kaur hurting her neck in the runchase. The injury occurred in the 19th over of India’s innings when Harmanpreet lost her balance while trying to dab a delivery from Nida Dar. The incident, which resulted in whiplash, significantly impacted India’s chances in the match. What Is Whiplash? Whiplash is a common injury in various sports, including cricket. It occurs when the neck undergoes sudden flexion and/or extension, often due to a sudden impact or a forceful change in direction. In cricket, this can happen during a collision, a diving catch, or, more commonly, when a batsman overbalances after hitting a ball. Understanding Whiplash Whiplash is essentially a strain or sprain of the neck muscles and ligaments. The sudden acceleration and deceleration of the head can cause these tissues to become overstretched or torn. Symptoms often appear immediately after the injury, but they can also develop over time. Common Symptoms of Whiplash Neck pain and stiffness: This is the most common symptom, often described as a dull ache or a sharp pain. Headaches: These can be severe and may radiate to the temples or back of the head. Dizziness and light-headedness: Balance problems and a sense of spinning can also occur. Shoulder pain: Pain in the shoulders is common due to the interconnectedness of the neck and shoulder muscles. Limited range of motion: Difficulty turning the head or looking up and down can be a significant issue. Diagnosis and Treatment A healthcare professional, such as a sports medicine doctor or a physiotherapist, can diagnose whiplash based on a physical examination and a detailed history of the injury. Imaging studies, like X-rays or MRI scans, may be necessary to rule out other conditions. Treatment for whiplash typically involves: Rest: Avoiding activities that aggravate the neck pain is important. Ice and heat therapy: Applying ice to the affected area initially can help reduce swelling, while heat can be used later to relax the muscles. Over-the-counter pain relievers: Medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage pain and inflammation. Physical therapy: Exercises and stretches prescribed by a physical therapist can help restore neck mobility and strengthen the supporting muscles. Neck collar: In some cases, wearing a soft neck collar can provide support and reduce pain. Prevention While it’s impossible to prevent all whiplash injuries, several steps can be taken to reduce the risk: Proper warm-up: A thorough warm-up before training or matches can help prepare the muscles and joints. Good technique: Learning and practicing proper batting technique can help prevent overbalancing and other factors that contribute to whiplash. Protective gear: While not always practical in cricket, wearing protective equipment, such as a neck guard, can offer additional protection. Long Term Considerations While most whiplash injuries resolve within a few weeks, some individuals may experience persistent symptoms, including chronic pain, limited range of motion, and difficulty concentrating. Rehabilitation A comprehensive rehabilitation program is essential for recovery, focusing on restoring neck mobility, strengthening supporting muscles, and improving posture. Prevention of re-injury Once a whiplash injury has healed, it’s important to take steps to prevent re-injury, such as maintaining good posture, avoiding excessive neck strain, and wearing appropriate protective gear. If you suspect you have whiplash, it’s essential to seek medical attention promptly. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent long-term complications and ensure a full recovery. The Sportz Planet Exclusive,Dr. Amol Patil Consultant Sports PhysicianFormer Team Doctor (Indian Boxing Team) | Former Consultant MY&S (Mission Olympic Cell)
Josh Hull Out Of England’s Pakistan Tour With Quad Injury
England’s left-arm seamer Josh Hull is ruled out of the test tour of Pakistan because his persistent quad injury does not recover in time. Hull, suffered the injury during his debut in the last test of the summer against Sri Lanka at The Kia Oval. ECB confirmed on Thursday that Hull will now miss the three-test series that gets underway on October 7th, 2024 in Multan. England do not name any replacement but will instead go into the tour with a 16-man squad. What Is A Quad Injury? A quad injury refers to a strain or tear of the quadriceps muscles. The quadriceps are four muscles at the front side of the thigh and are responsible for straightening the knee and play a vital function in walking, running, and jumping. As a whole, quad injuries occur because of overuse and sudden jerky movements, and trauma, possibly while playing games or undergoing some form of physical activity. A Quad injury can range from mild strains where the muscle fibers are simply overextended up to complete tears that result in severe pain, swelling, and loss of function. Treatment For A Quad Injury This typically includes the RICE protocol: Rest, Ice, Compression and Elevation. This means that the affected leg should ideally be rested not to compound the damage further, and on applying ice, there is a reduction in inflammation and pain. The swelling can be minimized by elevating the leg and applying compression in the form of an elastic bandage. Once the initial pain subsides, physical therapy and stretching exercises are often initiated. In extreme cases, drug interventions like anti-inflammatory drugs or even corticosteroid injections, surgery, may become necessary. Recovery times are related to the severity of injury while proper rehabilitation avoids later complications. Why Is Hull Special? Hull’s introduction was seen as a step forward to hasten his development and with that 6ft 7in frame and left-arm angle, was something of a test on the opposition batsmen, making the swing into right-handers a real attraction as England’s selectors looked towards longer-term planning for the next Ashes series. Uncertain Future It is unknown whether Hull will travel to New Zealand as part of the team for the tour ahead of England, as he begins his recovery under the supervision of the ECB. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
Ter Stegen Tumbles: Surgery Awaits Barcelona’s Safe Hands
It does not happen very often that one has seen goalkeeper stretches off the field. However, Barcelona’s Marc-Andre ter Stegen had such a day that would be erased from the memories when his side thrashed Villarreal 5-1. During the 44th minute, the German shot-stopper went all Superman by leaping to catch a corner kick-and landed like Clark Kent after a rough day. Result: he ended up with a nasty knee injury straight to the surgery table. Ouch. What’s the latest from ter Stegen’s knee? Well, to just say the least: he snapped a tendon. Envision the patellar or quadriceps tendons as the ropes holding your knee together. Snap one of them and your knee is as useful as a door without hinges. The tears usually happen due to awkward landing, and ter Stegen was the poster child for such. Months of Rehab Ahead Now the not-so-good news: surgery’s on the menu for ter Stegen and it’ll be a long haul, folks. Not weeks, but months. So, here’s some good news for Barcelona’s fans- they can get snug with Peña, because he’s going to be holding the fort for some time. Here’s hoping he’s up for the task. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
Common Sports Injuries and How Sports Science Helps to Prevent Them
Sports injuries are common at all levels of athletic participation. Understanding these kinds of injuries and appropriating the techniques of sport science can reduce them markedly. Five common types of sports injuries and ways in which sport science can help prevent them are discussed here. 1. Sprains and Strains Sprains are stretches or tears of the ligaments, while strains affect muscles or tendons. These are common in sports that involve quick movements, like soccer or basketball. These could be prevented with proper warm-up exercises, flexibility exercises and strengthening. The science of sports insists upon dynamic stretching before performance and strength training to support the muscle and its ligament. 2. Fractures Bones can fracture in any case of high-impact collision or even just a fall. It can be prevented by improving bone density with proper nutrition, including calcium and vitamin D, along with strength training. Sports scientists call for techniques of land and fall appropriately, hence minimizing risks of fracture. 3. Dislocations These are the forceful displacements of bones from their usual positions and hence are common in contact sports. The use of protection equipment such as braces and pads, and focusing exercises on enhancing joint stability and proprioception, are some recommendations by sports science to avoid dislocations. 4. Tendinitis Generally, this is an injury based on the inflammation of tendons brought about by repetitive stress. Ways to prevent this include optimizing techniques and posture, allowing for reasonable rest, and using sports science techniques to alter the training load and the recovery strategies to avoid the incidence of overuse. 5. Concussions The results of head injuries, such as concussions, are serious. Precautions include properly wearing headgear and encouraging safer playing techniques. Sports science acts to assist in the design of equipment that provides greater shock absorption, as well as designing safe return-to-play protocols. By applying these numerous strategies in training and preparation, athletes will drastically reduce the incidences of these common injuries and substantially improve performance and safety. The Sportz Planet DeskAtharva Shetye
Big Blow For Australia As Hazlewood Is Ruled Out Of Scotland T20I’s
Australian fast bowler Josh Hazlewood has been declared unfit to feature in the upcoming T20I series against Scotland due to a minor calf strain he suffered while training last week. While the injury is not major, Australian selectors have erred on the side of caution in treating Hazlewood’s recovery with care, given the stakes of the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy against India later this year. However, Hazlewood is expected to be fit in time for the T20Is and ODIs against England in September. Riley Meredith Replaces Hazlewood Riley Meredith has been called up to the squad for the T20Is against Scotland in Hazlewood’s stead. Meredith is a tall right-arm fast bowler who came into the limelight due to his quick pace and ability to extract more bounce than most fast bowlers. He last represented Australia in 2021, and so far he has played 1 ODI and 5 T20Is. The tall pacer has 8 wickets in T20Is with an average of 23.50. While Meredith is a natural wicket-taker, his tendency sometimes to be a bit expensive makes his game quite unpredictable. Solid Domestic Form of Meredith While regularly featuring for the Hobart Hurricanes in the Big Bash League, Meredith has also had spells in English domestic cricket. Following a recent spell with Somerset, he performed well in the Vitality T20 Blast, where he took 14 wickets at an average of 22.78, and six wickets in three matches during the Royal London One-Day Cup; he proved to be a potent white-ball bowler. Australia’s Fast Bowling Woes With Hazlewood out, Australia suffered another blow to its fast bowling, as left-arm pacer Spencer Johnson had already been declared out of the tour of the United Kingdom with an injury. Sean Abbott has been drafted as a replacement for him in the squad. Starc, Cummins, Hazlewood Key for Border-Gavaskar Trophy The Australian team was originally getting ready to unleash its three pacemen who are arguably among the world’s best — Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood — during the UK tour. However, Pat Cummins has been rested for the entire tour, and Mitchell Starc found a place only in the ODI series against England. Upcoming Fixtures It will kick off with a T20I series against Scotland in Edinburgh on September 4. Following the commitment against Scotland, the Australians will head to England to play three T20Is and five ODIs. Focus on the Border-Gavaskar Trophy The Australia management will be hoping to field its full-on pace attack in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy later this year, an important test series against reigning champions India. Australia squad for Scotland T20Is Mitchell Marsh (C), Sean Abbott, Xavier Bartlett, Cooper Connolly, Tim David, Nathan Ellis, Jake Fraser-McGurk, Cameron Green, Aaron Hardie, Travis Head, Josh Inglis (wk), Riley Meredith, Marcus Stoinis, Adam Zampa The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
