Hockey is a popular
recreational sport enjoyed by individual's of all ages and abilities. Due to the high speed and aggressive play involved, hockey can put
players at risk for injury. Although
sticks, pucks, and skate blades can do damage, most hockey-related injuries occur due to collisions with other
players and the boards. Fatigue and low
energy of participants due to poor endurance, insufficient rest, or too much
ice time can also make them more likely to get hurt.
Most hockey injuries involve the upper body, and can include fractures,
sprains and strains of the collarbones, hands, arms, and shoulders. Low back, groin, hip, knee, and ankle injuries
also occur frequently. Concussions are
the most common type of head injury and are often accompanied by neck
injury/pain.
Included below are some
tips to help players avoid
and/or minimize the chances of muscle and joint injuries.
1. Proper training is important. A
good training program should involve cardiovascular, stretching, and
strengthening exercises.
- Cardiovascular
training will increase endurance and decrease fatigue, which has been
linked to injuries.
- A
comprehensive stretching program for the back, arms, shoulders, thighs,
and legs should be performed both before and after games to keep muscles
limber and prevent stiffness and soreness.
- Strengthening
programs improve a muscle’s
ability to contract and perform joint movement. Muscles also act as
important shock absorbers and help prevent sprains and strains of
vulnerable regions such as the back and neck, along with the shoulder, hip
and groin regions.
2. Get enough rest and hydration. Since fatigue is one of the most common causes
of injury, even the fittest
players should often take breaks to rest. Dehydration affects your energy level and
your physical functioning. Drink plenty
of fluids before, during, and after play.
3. Use the right equipment. Properly
fitting gear can make a world of difference when it comes to avoiding injury. Replace worn out equipment. Helmets have a life span of three to five
years, depending on how often they are used. Helmets with face shields have been proven to
reduce the severity of concussions regardless of the player's experience level
and position when compared to visors alone.
4. Respect the rules. Promote sportsmanship and fair play.
Support a zero tolerance rule for illegal checks and maneuvers.
5. Take care of injuries before returning to
play. This will ensure top physical functioning and help
prevent further injury and chronic pain.
Chiropractors are healthcare professionals skilled in
the diagnosis and treatment of hockey-related injuries. In the event that you suffer a muscle or joint injury while playing
hockey that does not subside, consider
chiropractic care. For more information, visit www.nhwc.ca. The author credits the Ontario
Chiropractic Association (OCA) in the preparation of this educational
information for use by its members and the public.
This article is a basic
summary for educational purposes only.
It is not intended, and should not be considered, as a replacement for
consultation, diagnosis or treatment by a duly licensed health practitioner.
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