Stay in the Sand: Avoiding Volleyball Injuries

The sun is shining, the weather is sweet. Time to hit the beach and spike a few over the net. Whether you’re an avid volleyball player in an organized league or one who just plays the odd game on the weekend with friends and family, volleyball can be a great way to get out and enjoy the weather while also getting some fantastic exercise. Volleyball can also, however, be hard on the body. Though volleyball injuries rank the lowest for all major sports, there is still the risk for both traumatic and overuse injuries no matter your level of play.

Common volleyball injuries include:

–        Rotator cuff tendinitis
–        Finger injuries
–        Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries
–        Ankle sprains
–        Lower back pain
–        Patellar tendinitis

These injuries are common for a number of reasons. Due to the repetitive overhead motions of spiking and blocking, rotator cuff tendinitis and finger injuries can become problematic. Playing in the sand can be especially tricky too as an incorrect landing from a jump can wreak havoc on the knee or ankle. Constant motion may lead to a torn ligament or strain in the back. Again, no matter how much you play, many of these injuries can occur as the result of just one game.

So, how can you avoid painful volleyball injuries and stay in the sand or the court? Proper strength training, as well as pre-game stretching, are both very important. Also make sure that you are targeting all areas of the body (not just one), especially the shoulders, back and legs. Include the use of an ankle or knee support brace to help stabilize the joints. This is especially crucial if you have sustained an injury in the past or if your joints are weak. Finally, make sure that you give your body enough time to cool down after the game.

What if you have already sustained a volleyball injury? First of all, don’t ignore the injury in the hopes that it will just go away on its own. Seek medical attention from a sports medicine specialist as soon as you can get to one. There are various treatments that may help alleviate the pain caused by a volleyball injury including physical therapy, chiropractic treatments, massage therapy, or custom knee bracing.

Stay in the sand this summer by avoiding volleyball injuries before they occur. And, if you have already sustained an injury, get help from Athletic Edge Sports Medicine. Contact us today by calling 1-416-800-0800 or visit us at www.aesmphysiotherapytoronto.ca.