When it comes to sports and recreational activities, physical activity, social interaction, and teamwork are just a few of the many benefits. However, these activities also come with the risk of injuries. From sprains and fractures to concussions, certain sports are associated with higher injury rates than others. We’ll discuss the sports most commonly linked to injuries and the common sports injuries for different age groups.

Sports Most Associated with Injuries

In the United States, about 30 million children and teens participate in organized sports, resulting in over 3.5 million injuries each year. Sports involving contact and collisions like football tend to result in more injuries compared to non-contact activities like swimming. Nonetheless, all sports can lead to injuries from direct contact, overuse, or improper techniques.

 According to the National Safety Council (NSC), the following sports and recreational activities reported the highest number of injuries in 2023:

Exercise, exercise equipment: 482,886

Bicycles: 405,688

Basketball: 332,391

Football: 263,585

Skateboards, scooters: 221,313

Soccer: 212,423

Playground equipment: 190,942

Swimming, pools: 166,011

Baseball, softball: 139,940

Trampolines: 111,212

Types of Sports Injuries

There are two main categories of sports injuries: acute and chronic. Acute injuries happen suddenly, mostly due to blows, falls, or twists, and commonly result in sprains or dislocations. The most frequently reported sports injuries include sprains and strains. Chronic injuries, however, develop gradually over time from repetitive strain, such as stress fractures or tennis elbow.

The most common causes of sports injuries include falls, collisions, overexertion, and being struck by objects.

Age Considerations

Younger athletes are generally more susceptible to acute injuries like ligament tears and fractures while participating in sports. However, sports activities account for over 20% of traumatic brain injuries among children in the U.S. 

On the other hand, older athletes may not experience the same severity of injuries but are increasingly prone to conditions like knee problems, rotator cuff injuries, and Achilles tendonitis. These injuries can stem from natural aging or from maintaining an active lifestyle.

Conclusion

Injuries are an inherent risk in many sports, but understanding the types of injuries connected with specific activities can help reduce these risks. By promoting safety and awareness, we can continue to enjoy the benefits of sports while minimizing the potential for injury. If you or a loved one have been injured while playing a sport or recreational activity, don’t hesitate to seek help from a personal injury attorney. Remember, prioritizing safety means playing smart!