Hi Everyone,
It is definitely season for pre season injuries here at Port Adelaide Physiotherapy. Today its been calf pain, and more calf pain, and well..lots of people with variations of CALF pain. So here's a bit of information about preseason leg injuries.
Muscle cramps are caused by fatigue or muscle tightness, or an imbalance of fluid, salt or potassium from heavy sweating. To prevent muscle cramps, make sure to stretch before and after training.
A muscle strain causes tenderness of the muscle and possibly swelling. Muscle strains are caused by sudden contraction of a muscle and poor flexibility. Dancers, runners, jumpers are particularly prone to muscle strains in the lower back.
Shin splints cause pain on the front portions of the lower legs. Shin splints are caused by jumping on hard surfaces, improper landing, and poor flexibility. Be especially cautious to land properly after attempting a jump to avoid shin splints.
This condition causes chronic pain and inflammation to the foot, especially to the heel. Pain may also be felt in the arch. Plantar faciitis is particularly common in ballet dancers who wear pointe shoes.
Stress fractures cause pain and swelling, and usually occur in the shins or balls of the feet. They are usually caused by repeated jumping and landing. Female athletes and dancers seem to be at high risk for developing stress fractures in the lower legs and feet.
