Overuse injuries are commonly experienced by badminton players. Due to overtraining and improper use of techniques, stress is constantly impacted on the same parts of the body, leading to tendon tears and chronic pain over time if left untreated. The pain comes gradually and may not affect the performance of players immediately. As such, many ignore the symptoms until the condition worsens.
- Tennis Elbow
Also called the Lateral Epicondylitis, Tennis Elbow is caused by the repetitive motion of using backhand to hit the shuttlecock. Patients would feel pain in the elbow and arm, especially when raising the hand or gripping an object. Other causes that contribute to the injury could also be the high tension of the strings and unsuitable racket grip size. While the backhand move is necessary for all racket sports, it is important to use the correct techniques and warm up before every training session.
- Jumper’s Knee
Another name for Jumper’s Knee is Patellar Tendonitis. It is called the Jumper’s Knee as the condition is usually caused by the action of jumping during sports, with the impact striking the knees upon landing. Patients complain of pain and aching on the front side of the knee though they have never had an injury in the area before. It may not be felt significantly in the early stages but eventually, if left untreated, can result in tendon rupture.
- Golfer’s Elbow
Golfer’s Elbow, or Medial Epicondylitis, is the damage to the elbow muscles and tendons that control the wrist and fingers. It is caused by the repetitive flicking motion of the wrist required in badminton. Usually due to compensation from inadequate use of arm strength, the force used with the wrist might be more than the muscles can take. Patients would feel pain and tenderness on the inside of the elbow and along the forearm, with stiffness and difficulty to grip. Tape and elbow guard can be worn to give more support to the arm. However, it is best to stop all activities and allow the arm to rest once pain is felt during or after training.
- Shoulder Injuries
One common shoulder injury is a shoulder strain. Due to the nature of the sport which requires impactful swinging of the shoulders, the rotator cuff of the shoulder is often strained or damaged over time. Symptoms to look out for are pain and stiffness that gradually worsens with activity. Injury could be avoided by using the correct techniques and getting plenty of rest to allow the muscles to recover.
The post Top 4 Badminton Overuse Injuries appeared first on Singapore Sports and Orthopaedic Clinic.