• Shoulder dislocation– this can happen when your arm is forced backward when being held straight out to the side. If you hear a loud popping noise, notice a bulge in the front of your shoulder, or experience pain in the shoulder, this could be a dislocated shoulder requiring medical attention. A medical professional can put your shoulder back into place using special techniques, and you can see a PT or OT for further treatment on your shoulder to strengthen and reduce pain.
  • Dehydration– if you do not drink enough water, you can become dehydrated. When playing sports, playing outside, and being overheated, you MUST drink lots of water to keep your body healthy. Start drinking water before you know you will be exerting yourself in the heat (or cold) and continue to drink water during your activity. Common signs of dehydration include: headache, stomach pain, and muscle cramping. If you have these symptoms or get dehydrated, drink plenty of water. Sugary sports drinks, juices and sodas aren’t helpful in fighting dehydration. But water is! And it’s free!
  • Concussion– if you get hit in the head hard during sports or fall down, you can get a concussion. This occurs from a mild blow to the head, either with or without loss of consciousness and can lead to symptoms like headache, confusion, lack of coordination, memory loss, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, ringing in the ears, sleepiness, and excessive fatigue. You must see a doctor if you have a concussion, who may order some tests and will mostly likely require rest. This rest includes not looking at bright lights, not reading or looking at any electronic devices (computer, phone, table or TV).
  • Wrist fracture– if you fall on your hand and wrist, it may cause a bone fracture (broken bone). A fracture will cause lots of pain, redness on the skin, and swelling. You must see a doctor to have an X-ray to determine the location of your fracture. You may need to wear a cast or have surgery. After surgery, you are likely to see an occupational therapist to help rehabilitate your fracture by using heating pads, exercises, and functional activities.

Tara McVicker
Gannon University
Master of Occupational Therapy Junior
Reference: https://www.texaschildrens.org/blog/2015/08/mostcommon-sports-injuries