Four Common Injuries in Women’s Volleyball
In a study conducted by the NCAA for the 2004 – 2009 seasons, the overall injury rate for women’s volleyball is 4.3 per 1,000 athletes. The relatively high injury rate can be attributed to the increased participation, the increased intensity of the game, and the explosive nature of volleyball itself, which places extraordinary strain on the lower and upper extremities.
The shoulders, legs, knees and ankles, the ligaments and muscles are at the highest risks for injuries in women’s volleyball to the muscles and ligaments. Many are caused by overuse of overhead motions.
Among all the positions in women’s volleyball, the outside hitter suffers from the most injuries (38.7%). The middle blocker comes in at 27.4%, followed by the libero (12%), setter (10.9%) and diagonal player (7.5%). Of course, the risks for injuries will vary between athletes depending on their physical condition, playing techniques, and other factors.
Here are the top four injuries in women’s volleyball that athletes are more likely to suffer.
- Ligament sprains in the lateral ankle
A sprain refers to the unusual stretch or tears in a ligament, which are the bands of fibrous tissue connecting the bones at the joints. Its signs include pain, inflammation and soreness in the affected area with the pain ranging from mild to severe.
- Concussions
A concussion is a traumatic brain injury (TBI) that can alter the brain’s functions. While the effects may be temporary, the signs include headaches affecting memory, concentration and coordination, which can cause moderate anxiety. Most concussions can resolve with time and rest but many cases require urgent care.
- Muscle sprains in the quadriceps
The thighs can be subjected to sudden or severe strain during competitive women’s volleyball games. The tearing of either part or all of the muscle fibers can damage small blood vessels and, thus, local bleeding, bruising and pain, among other symptoms.
- Abdominal strains
In an abdominal strain, any of the four muscles can be injured during practice sessions or games with the injury varying in severity from first to third degree.
When injured, seek professional help from Healthpointe doctors and surgeons as soon as possible.
For athletes with concussions, sprains or other injuries, the medical health professionals of Healthpointe are ready to treat you!
About Healthpointe:
Healthpointe is a leading multidisciplinary healthcare organization offering a full range of medical services in practice locations throughout Southern California (Los Angeles County, Orange County, San Bernardino County, and Riverside County). Healthpointe has locations situated in over 10 cities in Southern California including Colton, which is conveniently located near Rialto, Bloomington, San Bernardino, Loma Linda, Highgrove and Grand Terrace. As a highly regarded musculoskeletal group, we have a personal investment in the highest level of service, and we are proud of our record of excellence over the last four decades with private patients, injured workers, urgent care, personal injuries, and professional and non-professional athletes. Leading our organization is a dynamic team of healthcare professionals who continually strive to be at the forefront of medical innovation and healthcare service delivery. For more information, a complete list of services, and Healthpointe locations, visit www.Healthpointe.net