‘Pandemic pause’ & increase in sports injuries

New research carried out in the USA, has linked a return to sport after a long period of stoppage, to an increased risk of injury. The research is just one of several studies to investigate the impact the pandemic had on sports injuries.

Here, we look at what the researchers discovered and the dangers of getting back into sport after a long pause.

Long break from sports can drastically increase risk of sports injuries

The latest study carried out by researchers from the University of Carolina, revealed a 30% jump in side-line high school athletes from March through to August in 2020. The drastic rise in sports injuries is thought to be down to a long period of downtime with a lack of training.

Environmental factors were also identified as a risk factor, such as a lack of access to healthcare, a poor diet, and a reduction in places to play. The most common injuries experienced by players after the pandemic pause were ACL injuries, hamstring strains, and concussions.

These findings have highlighted the need for a return to play protocol, and education on return to loading.

How to transition back into sport safely

Anyone who has taken a long pause away from sport will need to ease themselves back into it gradually. You need to realise that you likely won’t have the same level of fitness as you did when you last played. If you try and go straight back to where you left off, it’s going to significantly increase your risk of injury.

Set realistic goals and get back to basic training if you need to. If you are patient and persistent, you will soon get back to your previous level of fitness.

The key thing is to not go it alone. Seek advice from your coach or a professional to ensure you are getting back into sport safely.

Seeking help for sports injuries

It isn’t always possible to prevent sports injuries. If you are experiencing an injury after getting back into sport, it is important to seek treatment early. Often, the longer you leave a sports injury untreated, the worse it will become.

If you are dealing with a strain or sprain, rest and over the counter pain medications may be all that is needed. However, if you are dealing with an ACL injury, in some cases surgery may be required.

Book an appointment with Mr Jonathon Webb now to start treatment for your sports injury. After assessing the problem, Mr Webb will be able to advise you of the best treatment option, and when you can expect to return to play.