Injuries While Playing Badminton

June 14, 2010- Badminton is a relatively safe game. In games like badminton, safety is not too much of a concern if proper care and precautions are taken before and after the game and also while playing the game. For instance, just before the game, warming up and stretching are very important. Wear proper non slippery shoes while playing. Head bands, wrist band are also essential badminton sports products to prevent injuries. Cooling down after playing the game is also important. But do not lie down straight after play. Instead you can just do a few simple stretching exercises or walk around to relax and cool your body. Take small quantities of water or juice both before play and at intervals during play. But if necessary precautions are not taken, then you are bound to get injured.

Some Common Badminton Injuries

Ankle Sprain:
This is a common badminton injury. This injury is accidental and most sprains occur on the lateral ligament complex. The sprain results in a painful swelling in the outer side of the ankle, usually causing a partial or total rupture of one or more ligaments.

Meniscus Tear:
Normally caused by a sudden twisting movement of the knee during footwork. This results in the tear of the meniscus. There will be pain in the joint-line of the knee. Mild swelling is also there.

Muscle Strain:
Another injury is the disruption of muscle fibers, which cause muscle pain, swelling, and bruising

Tennis Elbow:
This is common and chronic injury faced by badminton players. This happens when there is repetitive backhand flicks, change of grip size, poor recovery and stretching. It will result in pain in the lateral epicondyle and common extensor tendon.

Golfer's Elbow:
An acute injury which occurs due to repeated wrist flicks.

Shoulder Injuries:
Very common in Badminton game as it involves a lot of overhead shots. Normally caused by problems on the rotator cuff.

Cramps:
This is a sudden, and intense pain caused by a group of muscle locked in spasm. This happens when the player suffers from excessive fluid loss, excessive heat gain, fatigue. This injury usually happens in the player's leg area.

Abrasions:
This is basically artificial loss of skin due to contact with floor or mat. This is a common badminton injury.

Blisters:
Occur mostly on the heels and toes and at times on the hands.

There are no doubt risks of getting the above badminton injuries. But prevention is better than cure though there are many injuries which are accidental. Proper medical attention is needed.