Lower leg injuries are common sports injuries. Acute lower leg injuries include fractures and strains of the muscles or tendons.
* Fractures are a crack, break, or complete shattering of one or both bones of the lower leg. Fractures occur in sports where falls or direct impacts are likely.
* Strains are a stretch, tear, or rupture of the fibers of muscle or tendons. Strains are often seen in sports that require powerful contractions of the calf muscles. |
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Overuse injuries like Achilles tendonitis and shin splints are more common than fractures and strains. Constant stress applied to an affected area causes overuse injuries. Treat minor overuse injuries with rest, ice, compression, and elevation. On-going and severe cases should be medically evaluated.
Prevent lower leg injuries by doing the following:
* Have a pre-sports exam to identify any muscle weaknesses and imbalances.
* Engage in a strength and flexibility program.
* Avoid training errors like hard surface running or working out too fast, too hard, too soon.
* Wear shin guards for safety.
* Include a warm-up and cool-down and follow both with leg stretches.
* Wear proper shoes that absorb shock and are stable.
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