Are Lacrosse Injuries Common?

Lacrosse is thought of as a relatively safe sport for high school athletes according to a study published in the American Journal of Sports Medicine in 2005. Most lacrosse injuries involve sprains and strains, contusions and abrasions.

Injury data hasn't demonstrated the need for female lacrosse players to wear helmets although eye protection and mouth guards are required. But, male lacrosse players are required to wear helmets, elbow pads, padded gloves, groin cups, chest and shoulder pads. While lacrosse is categorized as a "collision sport" by the NCAA in the same league as football and ice hockey, it has reduced injury rates.

The Potential Injuries

Injuries to the wrist and hand almost always occur from a direct blow. Although the gloves are padded, they are softer and more flexible than hockey gloves to allow for greater dexterity of the fingers. Fractures are relatively common from the entrapment of the grasped fingers against the metal shaft of the player's own stick.

Fracture to the clavicle and shoulder separations usually occur from collision with another player or by falling onto the shoulder point. The high rate of shoulder injuries as compared to hockey or football is common. Actually, the shoulder is the most frequently injured body part during games.

Because no pads are worn on the lower extremities, the body parts most frequently injured were the ankle, upper leg, and knee, which combined accounted for 48% of all lacrosse injuries. Knee injuries are among the most commonly observed in the sport of lacrosse because of the quick pivoting footwork to avoid an opponent with a dodge or cut which strains the knee.

Proper Equipment

Men's lacrosse is often thought of as a violent sport. NCAA injury statistics, however, don't support this. Both the NCAA and US Lacrosse set regulations that require players to use protective gear designed to protect the upper body, especially the head. Around 40% of lacrosse injuries are non-contact.

Insurance data of US Lacrosse showed 42% of claims dollars were paid out for knee injuries. Around half of the claims were filed on behalf of high school players. Statistics show that the use of Lacrosse helmets deters catastrophic brain injuries though concussions do occur.

The incidental contact in women's lacrosse has shown that the need for extensive protective equipment, including helmets, is not necessary. Protection of the face, eyes and mouth, are required. Some girls prefer to wear a non-padded glove and nose guards are often opted for.

It's important for parents and coaches of lacrosse players to understand the common injuries of the sport. Understanding which injuries are the most probable will lead to better immediate treatment and a shorter recovery period for the lacrosse athlete.

Article Source: http://www.articleselections.com

Kalynn Amadio is a Lacrosse enthusiast. See her complete informational website, Lacrosse-Information to learn more valuable tips on How to Play Lacrosse.

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