OVERUSE INJURIES
Tendonitis, Strains, Shin splints, Foot/Arch


MINOR INJURY - care for these quickly and properly
  Signs / Symptoms  
 
• Complaint of general soreness/stiffness as the athlete moves.
• General feeling of weakness.
• Persistent "nagging" pain.
• Chronic soreness that may come and go or move about slightly, and, generally is worse in the morning.
• Inflammation may or may not be visible.
 
  Treatment  
  RICE: (for the first 48-72 hours)
• Rest - NO PRACTICE
• Ice - 20-30 minutes every hour while awake.
• Compression - Elastic Wrap
• Elevation - above level of heart.

Ice and gently stretch muscles surrounding the overuse injury site before and after activity.

If symptoms persist or increase, see a physician.
 

  
PREVENTION
 
• Start strength training in the pre-season
• Emphasize flexibility, strengthening, and conditioning throughout the year.
• Increase awareness and use of proper body mechanics.
• Make certain to wear proper footwear for your particular sport.
• Avoid excessive training.
 
COMMONLY ASSOCIATED WITH:
 
Baseball, softball, basketball, gymnastics, paddling, wrestling, cross country, track and field, swimming, bicycling
 
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
 
Children's Orthopedics of Hawaii
 
   
It is extremely important to be able to recognize serious and/or life threatening injuries. These injuries are not always obvious therefore, we recommend that someone (i.e. a coach or team parent) become certified in Basic First Aide Procedures. The American Red Cross offers frequent courses in the procedures.