Guinness Six Nations Rugby Championships 2022 – My Top 3 Injuries and Injury Prevention tips
With England Captain Owen Farrell Ruled Out of the upcoming Scotland Vs England clash due to injury. We shall take a look at what other injuries players may sustain during the course of this Six Nations Championship and – if possible – how you can prevent them yourself!
First up we have: – Concussion – What is it?
A concussion is a traumatic head injury that can occur during direct or indirect collision.
When could I see it in the match?
As Rugby is a hard contact sport, head collisions with opposing players are very common due to tackling to get the ball. This can cause direct head contact or a whiplash effect.
Symptoms
Due to the nature of hard head impact, symptoms such as; Dizziness, Forgetfulness, Confusion, Blurred Vision and Headaches are extremely common. Not to forget however is that 10% of all concussions result in a loss of consciousness. All coaches and medical staff should be aware of the concussion guidelines.
Can it be prevented?
I’m afraid not, due to the physicality of the game, concussion prevention is not possible at this level. You can however reduce concussions in training by switching to touch rugby when practicing plays and drills that aren’t solely contact focussed. If a concussion is suspected take the player out of the game. Keep in mind “If in doubt, Sit them out”
Can we help?
Attending regular Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy sessions at our Glasgow Clinic will help to relieve symptoms and promote accelerated recovery.
You can find out more about this breakthrough treatment here – https://sportstherapyscotland.co.uk/treatments/hyperbaric-oxygen-therapy-mhbot/
#2 Ankle Sprain
What is it?
Have you ever “rolled” or “went over on” your ankle? That is the most common description we hear upon assessing an ankle injury. What you have done is stretched either your Medial (inside) or most commonly Lateral (outside) Ankle ligaments.
When am I likely to see it in the match?
Usually as a result of a player; making an unexpected movement whilst running with the ball to avoid opposing players; A fall that causes a Players ankle to twist; Landing awkwardly on their foot after jumping or changing direction. This movement forces the ankle out of position causing one or more of their ankle ligaments to stretch! Ouch!!
Symptoms
Swelling or bruising around the ankle.
Pain when walking or twisting your foot.
Stiffness.
Tender to touch.
Can it be prevented?
Yes and no. You may see players walk out with ankle braces on. Ankles wrapped in elastic bandage or taped up with (insert mkt tape link). These will help stability around the ankle however uncontrollable factors in the match can cause a sprain. Following a rehab programme like the ones we give out during treatments for the original sprain will give the player the best chance of not injuring it again.
Can we treat it?
Yes! We are no stranger to ankle sprains and many of our treatments will help you to return to your Sport quicker. Check out our range of treatments here – https://sportstherapyscotland.co.uk/treatments/ If you are unsure what is for you give us a call on 0141 334 1223 or email enquires@sportstherapyscotland.co.uk and we will put you on the right path!
Jordans Tip
As an elite athlete myself I have suffered from Lateral Ankle Sprains (yes plural!). My advice is to follow the rehab, not rush back to training, and when you do – if needed – use an ankle support until you are mentally recovered from the injury.
#3 Dislocated Shoulder – What is it?
A dislocated shoulder is when your upper arm bone (humerus) is forced out of the joint socket at your shoulder blade.
When could I see it in the match?
If a player has a sudden direct impact ie is tackled hard from the front/ side or lands with the ball outstretched usually when scoring a try! Anything for those 5 points!
Symptoms
Unable to move arm (will also be very painful to try!)
Your shoulder will look deformed (square shaped rather than round)
If “lucky”you might be able to see the top of your humerus under the skin at the front of your shoulder!!!
Can it be prevented?
Yes and no…
Due to the physical nature and level of this game you can’t rule out a dislocated shoulder when participating.
Chances of dislocating it again depend upon: how well you stick to your rehab plan; your age and how well the tissue surrounding the jointhealed the first time (ie stick to your rehab!).
Can we treat it?
Yes! Once your shoulder has been reset many of our treatments will help you to overcome your symptoms and return to your Sport quicker. Check out our range of treatments here – https://sportstherapyscotland.co.uk/treatments/
Jordans Tip
Not an injury I myself have experienced. My advice however is to take time to build up the muscles in and around your shoulder to give it added protection and stability. Tape your shoulder prior to competing to give it further added stability, and if it does happen trust and follow your rehab work that your Sports Therapist gives you.
Contact us!
If you or someone you know has suffered from an injury and don’t know the best way to recover from it. Contact us on 0141 334 1223 or email via contact usJordans and together we will get you back performing at your highest level.