5 Most Common Cricket Injuries

What are the 5 most common cricket injuries?

1. Rotator Cuff Injuries
2. Hamstring Sprains
3. Ankle Sprains
4. Contusions
5. Side Sprains

1. Rotator Cuff Injuries

Fielding, batting, and bowling all use the shoulder extensively and put them into overdrive. All players are at risk for rotator cuff injuries. The rotator cuff is a group of four muscles that stabilize the shoulder joint. Any repetitive movement can cause overloading of tissue. Any damage will make it bowling and batting very painful. Rotator cuff injuries can occur when any of the four muscles are torn or strained. Some symptoms include swelling, decreased range of motion, and pain. These injuries come in varying degrees so it is recommended the players seek help from a physiotherapist. 

2. Hamstring Sprains

Hamstring strains may occur during cricket when any player takes a sudden sprint or quick single run. This can involve bowlers, fielders, and batters. The hamstrings are muscles that go down the back of the leg, and allow it to bend at the knee. If any of these muscles are overloaded, it can lead to a hamstring strain. All hamstring strains may range in their severity, from being a mild ache in the hamstring to major strains which make it difficult and painful to stand or walk. Lack of strength and poor conditioning can cause a hamstring strain. Remembering to perform warm-ups before playing can help reduce the occurrences of the strains occurring. 

3. Ankle Sprains

Ankles can go through a lot of strain when playing cricket as the lower bodies are quickly moving, sprinting, and shifting into sudden movements. Ankle sprains refer to the damaged soft tissue or ligaments, which usually happens when the ankle twists. Wearing ankle braces can help prevent and reduce the sprain. Other forms of treatment include ice therapy, resting, compression, and elevation of the ankle. It is best if conditions get worse, the player seeks professional help before the sprain worsens.

4. Contusions

Contusions are caused by a direct impact to the player’s muscle. With cricket, it usually involves being struck by the ball. Contusions can cause bruising or swelling and range in severity. Usually, the faster the speed of the ball, the increased severity of the contusion. If the injury is a soft tissue contusion, it can take a few days to a few weeks to heal. If they are bone contusions, it may take up to a few months. To speed up the recovery of contusions, players should follow the RICE protocol which includes resting, applying ice, compression, and elevating the area to reduce swelling. 

5. Side Sprains

Side sprains occur when the side of the abdomen (obliques) are torn or strained. This is common with bowlers as their positions require bending to the side and placing repetitive strain on the lateral muscles. Some other causes are overuse, fatigue, direct trauma, or sudden movement. The sprain will range in severity and occurs on the opposite side of the bowling arm. The side sprain may cause sharp, sudden pain or cause a feeling of stiffness. Players should rest adequately and seek professional help for any treatment.