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Dangerous Sports in Kids

What are some common forms of sports injury that kids in Singapore experience (e.g. fractures, concussions, and trauma)? Do provide statistics of these injury cases happening in Singapore, in recent years. How are these sports injury usually treated?

There are 2 most common injury in kids:

1. Bone Fracture

Depending on the severity of the fracture, the treatment is ranging from Splint, Cast/Plaster, and Surgery.

2. Ankle sprained

Sprained ankle is very common injury for kids, and the treatment is depending on the grades of the sprain. Most of the time it is treated with Cast or Ankle Air Cast in order to allow the ligament to heal properly. Tubigrip is also often used to reduce the swelling.

ACL Injury

Share with us the 5 most dangerous sports for kids. What is it about these sports that make them dangerous? Anything that kids/parents/teachers can do to keep the rate of accidents and injuries low?

1. Basketball

Basketball Game involving with twisting, jumping, pivoting, squatting, or making sudden stops puts kids at risk. Proper coach up can help to keep the rate of injuries low. Basketball Shoes which covered above ankle will help to protect the ankles.

2. Cycling

Wearing a helmet, elbow and knee guards greatly reduces risk as does educating children about the dangers of riding in traffic.

3. Soccer

Soccer-playing boys are at highest risk for ankle sprains as well as thigh and upper leg strains and knee injuries such as ACL and Meniscus Injuries. Proper coach up can help to keep the rate of injuries low.

4. Baseball

Baseball injuries caused by being hit by a batted ball, four in 10 caused fractures, lacerations, or concussions. There are even reports of sustaining a coma from a batted ball and haemorrhaging in the brain after being hit by a bat. Baseball has also the highest injury rate in elbows, mostly due to repetitive pitching and improper technique. Wear proper protective gear will help in reduce the rate of injuries.

5. Skateboarding

You are on a piece of wood with sandpaper and wheels. Doing tricks off ledges sometimes higher than 15 feet. The use of protective gear, such as closed, slip-resistant shoes, helmets, and specially designed padding for elbows, knees, and hands is helping to reduce the rate of injuries such as wrist fracture, elbow fracture, and clavicle fracture.

What’s the first thing to be done when someone gets hurt while playing sports?

Ans: Depending on the severity of the injury:

1. For severe cases and injured person no response: Call for help. Eg: 995

–          Check on ABC (Airway, Breathing and Circulation)

2. For non-severe cases:

–          In the event of bleeding – is to stop the bleeding but putting pressure on the affected area

–          In the event of fracture or soft tissue – is to put a splint to reduce the pain

–          Bring the injured patient to nearest A&E or GP

Having Sports Injuries? You are at the Right Place. Consult our Sports Specialist today. Call us +65 64712744 or SMS to +65 92357641 to schedule for an appointment. 

PATIENT GUIDE TO SHIN SPLINTS

The term “shin splints” refers to pain along or just behind the shinbone (tibia) — the large bone in the front of your lower leg. Medically known as medial tibial stress syndrome, shin splints occur during physical activity and result from too much force being placed on your shinbone and connective tissues that attach your muscles to the bone. Shin splints are common in runners and in those who participate in activities with sudden stops and starts, such as basketball, soccer or tennis.

The risk of shin splints is no reason to give up your morning jog or afternoon aerobics class. Most cases of shin splints can be treated with rest, ice and other self-care measures. Wearing proper footwear and modifying your exercise routine can help prevent shin splints from recurring.

SYMPTOMS OF SHIN SPLINTS:

If you have shin splints, you may notice:

  • Tenderness, soreness or pain along the inner part of your lower leg
  • Mild swelling in your lower leg

At first, the pain may stop when you stop running or exercising. Eventually, however, the pain may be continuous.

When to see a doctor
Consult your doctor if rest, ice and over-the-counter pain relievers don’t ease your shin pain. Your primary care doctor may refer you to an orthopedist. Seek prompt medical care if:

  • Severe pain in your shin follows a fall or accident
  • Your shin is hot and inflamed
  • Swelling in your shin seems to be getting worse
  • Shin pain persists during rest

CAUSES OF SHIN SPLINTS:

Shin splints are caused by excessive force (overload) on the shinbone and the connective tissues that attach your muscles to the bone. The overload is often caused by specific athletic activities, such as:

  • Running downhill
  • Running on a slanted or tilted surface
  • Running in worn-out footwear
  • Engaging in sports with frequent starts and stops, such as basketball and tennis

Shin splints can also be caused by training errors, such as engaging in a running program with the “terrible toos” — running too hard, too fast or for too long.

RISK FACTORS OF SHIN SPLINTS:

You’re more at risk of shin splints if:

  • You’re a runner, especially just beginning a running program
  • You have flat feet or rigid arches, causing your feet to roll inward when running
  • You increase the intensity of your workouts by doing more high-impact activities
  • You play sports on hard surfaces, with sudden stops and starts
  • You’re in military training

TEST AND DIAGNOSIS OF SHIN SPLINTS

Shin splints are usually diagnosed based on your medical history and a physical exam. In some cases, an X-ray or other imaging studies can help identify other possible causes for your pain, such as a stress fracture — tiny cracks in a bone often caused by overuse.

PREVENTION:

To help prevent shin splints:

  • Choose the right shoes. Wear footwear that suits your sport. If you’re a runner, replace your shoes about every 350 to 500 miles (560 to 800 kilometers).
  • Consider arch supports. Arch supports can help prevent the pain of shin splints, especially if you have flat arches.
  • Lessen the impact. Cross-train with a sport that places less impact on your shins, such as swimming, walking or biking. Remember to start new activities slowly. Increase time and intensity gradually.
  • Add strength training to your workout. To strengthen your calf muscles, try toe raises. Stand up. Slowly rise up on your toes, then slowly lower your heels to the floor. Repeat 10 times. When this becomes easy, do the exercise holding progressively heavier weights. Leg presses and other exercises for your lower legs can be helpful, too.

It’s also important to know when to rest; at the first sign of shin pain, take a break.

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Preventing Football Sports Injury

Football is one of the most popular sports played by young athletes, and it leads all other sports in the number of injuries sustained.

WHAT TYPES OF INJURIES ARE MOST COMMON IN FOOTBALL?

Injuries occur during football games and practice due to the combination of high speeds and full contact. While overuse injuries can occur, traumatic injuries such as concussions are most common. The force applied to either bringing an opponent to the ground or resisting being brought to the ground makes football players prone to injury anywhere on their bodies, regardless of protective equipment.

COMMON INJURIES IN FOOTBALL PLAYERS:

Traumatic Injuries:

Knee injuries in football are the most common, especially those to the anterior or posterior cruciate ligament (ACL/PCL) and to the menisci (cartilage of the knee). These knee injuries can adversely affect a player’s longterm involvement in the sport. Football players also have a higher chance of ankle sprains due to the surfaces played on and cutting motions.

Shoulder injuries are also quite common and the labrum (cartilage bumper surrounding the socket part of the shoulder) is particularly susceptible to injury, especially in offensive and defensive linemen. In addition, injuries to the acromioclavicular joint (ACJ) or shoulder are seen in football players.

Overuse Injuries:

Low-back pain, or back pain in general, is a fairly common complaint in football players due to overuse. Overuse can also lead to overtraining syndrome, when a player trains beyond the ability for the body to recover. Patellar tendinitis (knee pain) is a common problem that football players develop and can usually be treated by a quadriceps strengthening program.

Concussions:

Football players are very susceptible to concussions. A concussion is a change in mental state due to a traumatic impact. Not all those who suffer a concussion will lose consciousness. Some signs that a concussion has been sustained are headache, dizziness, nausea, loss of balance, drowsiness, numbness/tingling, difficulty concentrating, and blurry vision. The athlete should return to play only when clearance is granted by a health care professional.

Heat Injuries:

Heat injuries are a major concern for youth football players, especially at the start of training camp. This usually occurs in August when some of the highest temperatures and humidity of the year occur. Intense physical activity can result in excessive sweating that depletes the body of salt and water.

The earliest symptoms are painful cramping of major muscle groups. However, if not treated with body cooling and fluid replacement, this can progress to heat exhaustion and heat stroke — which can even result in death. It is important for football players to be aware of the need for fluid replacement and to inform medical staff of symptoms of heat injury.

How can Football Injuries be Prevented:

  • Have a pre-season health and wellness evaluation
  • Perform proper warm-up and cool-down routines
  • Consistently incorporate strength training and stretching
  • Hydrate adequately to maintain health and minimize cramps
  • Stay active during summer break to prepare for return to sports in the fall
  • Wear properly fitted protective equipment, such as a helmet, pads, and mouthguard
  • Tackle with the head up and do not lead with the helmet
  • Speak with a sports medicine professional or athletic trainer if you have any concerns about football injuries or football injury prevention strategies

Having Football Injuries? Call +65 6471 2744 or SMS to +65 9235 7641 for professional treatment and consultation

Common Cycling Injuries

Since the 1800s when bicycles first made their appearance, cycling has become popular for commuting, recreation, exercise, and sport. Studies estimate that large numbers of these cyclists experience physical problems: 48 percent in their necks, 42 percent in their knees, 36 percent in the groin and buttocks, 31 percent in their hands, and 30 percent in the back. No matter why they use a bicycle, young people can follow some basic safety principles to avoid common cycling injuries.

WHAT ARE THE MOST COMMON CYCLING INJURIES AND HOW CAN THEY BE PREVENTED?

Knee Pain

The knee is the most common site for overuse injuries in cycling. Patellofemoral syndrome (cyclist’s knee), patella and quandriceps tendinitis, medial plica syndrome, and iliotibial band friction syndrome are a few of the more common knee overuse injuries. The first four injuries mentioned involve pain around the kneecap, while the last condition results in outer knee pain. Shoe implants, wedges beneath the shoes, and cleat positions may help prevent some overuse injuries.

Head Injuries

One of the most common injuries suffered by cyclists is a head injury, which can be anything from a cut on the cheek to traumatic brain injury. Wearing a helmet may reduce the risk for head injury by 85 percent. The majority of states have no laws governing the use of helmets while riding a bicycle, but helmets are readily available for purchase and typically low in cost.

Neck/Back Pain

Cyclists most likely experience pain in the neck when they stay in one riding position for too long. An easy way to avoid this pain is by doing shoulder shrugs and neck stretches that help relieve neck tension. Improper form also leads to injuries. If the handlebars are too low, cyclists may have to round their backs, thus putting strain on the neck and back. Tight hamstrings and/or hip flexor muscles can also cause cyclists to round or arch the back, which causes the neck to hyperextend. Stretching these muscles on a regular basis will create flexibility and make it easier to maintain proper form. Changing the grip on the handlebars takes the stress off of over-used muscles and redistributes pressure to different nerves.

Wrist/Forearm Pain or Numbness

Cyclists should ride with their elbows slightly bent (never with their arms locked or straight). When they hit bumps in the road, bent elbows will act as shock absorbers. This is also where changing hand positions will help reduce pain or numbness. Two common wrist overuse injuries, Cyclist’s Palsy and Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, can be prevented by alternating the pressure from the inside to the outsides of the palms and making sure wrists do not drop below the handlebars. In addition, padded gloves and stretching the hands and wrists before riding will help.

Urogenital Problems

One common complaint from male riders who spend a lot of time riding is pudendal neuropathy, a numbness or pain in the genital or rectal area. It is typically caused by compression of the blood supply to the genital region. A wider seat, one with padding, a seat with part of the seat removed, changing the tilt of the seat, or using padded cycling shorts will all help relieve pressure.

Foot Numbness and Tingling

Foot numbness and tingling are common complaints, and shoes that are too tight or narrow are often the cause. In addition, foot numbness can be due to exertional compartment syndrome. This arises from increased pressure in the lower leg and resulting compression of nerves. The diagnosis is made by pressure measurements and is treated with surgical release.

Get professional consultation and treatment about your Cycling Injury. Call +65 6471 2744 or SMS to +65 9235 7641 for Appointment

Patient Guide to Hamstring Injury

A hamstring injury occurs when you strain or pull one of your hamstring muscles — the group of three muscles that run along the back of your thigh.

You may be more likely to get a hamstring injury if you play soccer, basketball, football, tennis or a similar sport that involves sprinting with sudden stops and starts. Hamstring injury can occur in runners and in dancers as well.

Self-care measures such as rest, ice and over-the-counter pain medications are often all you need to relieve the pain and swelling associated with a hamstring injury. Rarely, surgery may be needed to repair a torn muscle.

SYMPTOMS OF HAMSTRING INJURY:

A hamstring injury typically causes a sudden, sharp pain in the back of your thigh. You might also feel a popping or tearing sensation. Swelling and tenderness usually develop within a few hours. You may also experience bruising or discoloration along the back of your leg, as well as muscle weakness or an inability to put weight on your injured leg.

When to see a doctor
Mild hamstring strains can be treated at home. But you should see a doctor if you can’t bear any weight on your injured leg or if you can’t walk more than four steps without significant pain.

CAUSES OF HAMSTRING INJURY:

The hamstring muscles are a group of three muscles that run along the back of your thigh from your hip to just below your knee. These muscles make it possible to extend your leg straight behind your body and to bend your knee. When any one of these muscles stretches beyond its limit during physical activity, injury can result.

RISK FACTORS:

Hamstring injury risk factors include:

  • Sports participation. Sports that require sprinting or running, or other activities such as dancing that might require extreme stretching, make a hamstring injury more likely.
  • Prior hamstring injury. After you’ve had one hamstring injury, you’re more likely to have another one, especially if you try to resume all your activities at pre-injury levels of intensity before your muscles have time to heal and rebuild strength.
  • Poor flexibility. If you have poor flexibility, your muscles may not be able to bear the full force of the action required during certain activities.
  • Muscle imbalance. Although not all experts agree, some suggest that a muscle imbalance may lead to hamstring injury. When the muscles along the front of your thigh — the quadriceps — become stronger and more developed than your hamstring muscles, you may be more likely to injure your hamstring muscles.

COMPLICATIONS:

Returning to strenuous activities before your hamstring muscles are completely healed might cause an injury recurrence. In some cases, a recurrent hamstring injury may be more severe than the original injury.

CURE YOUR HAMSTRING INJURY TODAY. CALL +65 6471 2744 for Appointment (24 Hours) or Email to info@boneclinic.com.sg

Groin Strain (Adductor muscle tear)

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A groin strain is a tear or rupture to any one of the five adductor muscles. If it isnt treated properly it can recur causing problems in the future.

What is a Groin Strain?

A groin strain is a tear or rupture to any one of the adductor muscles. There are five adductor muscles, the pectineus, adductor brevis and adductor longus (called short adductors which go from the pelvis to the thigh bone) and the gracilis and adductor magnus (long adductors which go from the pelvis to the knee).

The main function of the adductors is to pull the legs back towards the midline, a movement called adduction. During normal walking they are used in pulling the swinging lower limb towards the middle to maintain balance. They are also used extensively in sprinting, playing football, horse riding, hurdling and any sport which requires fast changes in direction.

A rupture or tear in the muscle usually occurs when sprinting, changing direction or in rapid movements of the leg against resistance such as kicking a ball. This is especially likely if a thorough warm-up has not been undertaken first! Repetitive overuse of the groin muscles may result in adductor tendinopathy.

Classification of Groin Strains

Groin strains, as with all muscle tears, are graded 1, 2, or 3 depending on how bad they are.

Grade 1

A minor tear where less than 10% of fibres are damaged.

Grade 2

A moderate tear which can be anything from 10 to 90% of fibres torn. For this reason, grade 2 injuries are often termed 2 or 2-.

Grade 3

The most serious, being either partial or full ruptures.

Symptoms of a Groin Strain

Grade 1

  • Discomfort in the groin or inner thigh. This may not be noticed until after exercise stops.
  • The groin muscles will usually feel tight.
  • There may be an area which is tender to touch.
  • Walking is normal, discomfort may only be when running or even just on changes in direction.

Grade 2

  • A sudden sharp pain in the groin area or adductor muscles during exercise.
  • Tightening of the groin muscles that may not be present until the following day.
  • There may be minor bruising or swelling (this might not occur until a couple of days after the initial injury).
  • Weakness and possibly pain on contracting the adductor muscles (squeeze your legs together).
  • Discomfort or pain on stretching the muscle.
  • Walking may be affected.
  • Running is painful.

Grade 3

  • Severe pain during exercise, often on changing direction suddenly when sprinting.
  • Inability to contract the groin muscles (squeeze your legs together).
  • Substantial swelling and bruising on the inner thigh within 24 hours.
  • Pain on attempting to stretch the groin muscles.
  • It may be possible to feel a lump or gap in the muscles.

Treatment of a Groin Strain

What can the athlete do?

  • Apply R.I.C.E. (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) immediately.
  • Use crutches if needed.
  • Gently stretch the groin muscles provided this is comfortable to do so.
  • See a sports injury professional who can advise on rehabilitation of the injury.
  • For a suspected grade 3 strain seek professional help immediately.

What can a sports injury specialist or doctor do?

  • Use ultrasound or laser treatment.
  • Tape the groin to take the pressure off the area.
  • Use sports massage techniques after the acute phase.
  • This is extremely important.
  • Operate if the muscle has torn completely.
  • Advise on a rehabilitation programme consisting of stretching and strengthening exercises

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