Gymnastics is a sport that requires a lot of flexibility, strength, and stamina. Over time, gymnasts’ bodies can become injured because of the strain caused by gymnastics. Gymnasts often get tendonitis, which is an inflammation of the tendons. Overuse can cause this inflammation, as well as a few other common gymnastics injuries.
Less common but more serious injuries include neck and back problems, such as spondylolysis and spondylolisthesis. These injuries are much more serious than the ones mentioned before, and if not treated right away can cause a lot of pain and discomfort.
Treatment for these injuries varies depending on the injury itself, but usually includes resting or even surgery in some cases. Prevention methods include stretching and warming up before you start your daily routine or practice.
Gymnasts are susceptible to strains and sprains, because they use their bodies in unusual ways. However, there are ways to prevent both types of injuries from happening: proper stretching techniques and warming up before each practice or event.
Injury prevention is the standard to achieve in this sport. While all injuries can’t be prevented, the effort to prevent as many injuries as possible is key to improving longevity within the sport. Unfortunately, many unpredictable accidents do occur in this sport.
By prioritizing physical health, you provide your bones, muscles, joints, ligaments, and tendons with the most substantial environment to perform yet remain uninjured.
Prioritizing physical health requires proactive actions, consistent exercise implementation, and rehabilitative strategies before an injury occurs. The following are the most common and effective preventative measures for gymnasts to reduce the risk of injury:
- Hydration
- Avoiding overtraining
- Follow rehabilitation protocols (i.e., physical therapy)
- Ensure proper techniques
- Avoid loose clothing and wear proper gymnast attire
- Wear protective gear during training (i.e., hand grips, chalk, heel pads, wrist wraps, braces)
- Rest and recover
- Use spotters
- Ensure the basic equipment safe and intact
Summary
Gymnastic injuries often don’t require surgery, but they usually require some medical attention. When injuries occur, no matter the severity, it’s important to seek treatment immediately.
Ignoring symptoms prolongs healing, increases suffering, and can result in more significant problems down the road.
Following preventive techniques can greatly reduce the risk of injury.