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 hockey 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.
