Common Athletics Injuries

The javelin throw is the event that appears to be most at risk for injury, for which the most common are:

Shoulder due to extreme loading and rapid movement forward
Elbow and wrist are also common from the forearm rotation

Athletes who engage in circle throws shot, discus and hammer are much less likely to suffer an injury as a result of throwing. Although shot-putters do sometimes suffer hand and wrist injuries.

A recent survey found that the majority of injuries throwers and track and field athletes suffer in general were more likely to be pushing too hard whilst fatigued or during unsupervised activity either on the track or in the gym.

Injury prevention advice for developmental athletes

Maturation occurs for girls between 8-14 years and boys 9-15 years, with girls beginning puberty typically two years before boys. The bone mineral content peaks in girls between 11.5-13.5 and boys 13-15 years. Plyometrics during this time will strengthen bones and help with this process.

Common sites of injuries are:

knees
elbows
shoulders
neck
ankles

Majority of injuries occur in unsupervised overhead lifts with near-maximal resistance. Children should not perform overhead lifts with maximal or near maximal resistance because it can increase the chance of growth plate damage in the long bones. Pre-pubescence athletes are at greater risk for lower back injuries. Back injuries in athletes are generally due to poor technique especially in dead lifts and squats. Emphasise head up, straight back and use legs to lift the weight.

To help strengthen lower back use strength and conditioning exercises such as:

Stretching
Back extension and sit ups

Weak abdominal muscles can reduce sports performance, so should be included in a resistance training plan. Likewise lack of upper body strength can also weaken sports performance. Pull-ups and press-ups should be introduced into resistance training plan.