Most sports injuries are due to either traumatic injury or overuse of muscles or joints. Many sports injuries can be prevented with proper conditioning and training, wearing appropriate protective gear, and using proper equipment. The result will be pain, swelling, and discoloration. More serious contusions may need to be examined by a physician. A sprain is an injury to a ligament and is often caused by a wrench or twist.
Sprains often affect the ankles, knees, or wrists.
If the ligament is torn, surgical repair may be necessary. A strain is an injury to a muscle or tendon, and is often caused by overuse, force, or stretching. If a tear in the muscle occurs, surgical repair may be necessary. Most fractures occur in the arms and legs. Symptoms may include tenderness over the bone, swelling of the affected area, deformity of the limb, and increased pain upon movement.