Gymnastics Injuries
Each year, more than 86,000 gymnastics-related injuries are treated in hospitals, doctor's offices, clinics and ambulatory surgery centers. Gymnasts must consistently prepare for the rigorous physical and emotional tolls that the sport requires. With the complexity of routines, the risk of potential injury increases. Injuries most commonly occur in the ankles, feet, lower back, knees, wrists, and hands, often from the overuse or simple stress. Injuries are rarely severe, but if left untreated they can lead to chronic pain and bone fractures.
What are some of the most common gymnastics injuries?
Because the upper body is used as a weight-bearing joint in gymnastics, injuries to the shoulder, elbow, and wrist are common and may include:
• Superior labrum, anterior-posterior (SLAP) lesions in the shoulder
• Elbow dislocation
• Wrist sprains
The most common gymnastics injuries to the lower body involve the knee and ankle. Lower extremity injuries usually result from the landing and dismount activities and may include:
• Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury
• Achilles tendon injury
• Lower back injury
