Gymnastics Injuries
By
“
Common Gymnastics Injuries
Gymnastics is one of the most physically demanding sports in the world. Thus gymnastics injuries are common. Common gymnastic injuries include,
- wrist fractures
- concussions
- finger/ hand injuries
- knee injuries (ACL)
- low back (spinal fracture, disc injuries)
- cartilage damage
- Achilles sprains/tears
- Shoulder instability
- ankle sprains
- burners/stingers.
Gymnast on balance beam
Preventing Gymnastics Injuries
Injuries happens when you’re an athlete. But, there are step that a gymnast can take to reduce their risk of gymnastics injuries.
- Follow proper training guidelines
- Utilize safety equipment
Wear required safety gear whenever competing and/or training such as
- wrist guards
- hand grips
- footwear
- ankle/elbow braces & pads
- First aid kit
- Use a Spotter if needed
- Warm up before gymnastics
DO NOT PUSH THROUGH PAIN. if you’re injured, see your doctor and follow rehabilitation recommendations.
Sports Medicine for Gymnastics Injuries?
If you get injured in gymnastics, it is important to rehabilitate properly. Physical therapists and athletic trainers can help. PTs and ATs help to restore movement and strength in the injured areas. They also create specific exercise plans to help you return to high level balance and performance activity.
It is also important to see a physician with a sports medicine or orthopedic specialty to help you determine which injuries are minor and which require advanced care.
What are the Twisties? How do Twisties Effect Athletes?
Olympic Stadium
“”Twitstie”” is a term used in gymnastics use to describe unusual disorientation while performing. This is especially critical during dismounts where the gymnast is airborne and turning and twisting in the air before the landing. Losing the sense of direction in the air can be dangerous in gymnastics.
The “”Twisties”” is kind of like the “”Yips”” in golf. The difference is that the yips do not place a golfer in danger of severe injury.
Balance and position sense come from 3 systems:
- Proprioception – position sense from joint and muscle receptors
- Vestibular Organs – Inner ear organs that detect movement
- Vision – visual input helps to detect fixed objects and surfaces
These 3 systems send information to the brain. The brain organizes the information and creates constant changes in muscle movements to help keep us upright and help to adjust to the environment.
These responses are refined in high level athletes through training and practice.
What Causes the Twisties in Gymnastics?
There is no specific cause of the Twisties, but stress and mental health issues may contribute. In the case of the 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games, Team USA Gymnast, Simone Biles, had to remove herself from several events due to feeling disoriented. She was concerned about the risk of severe injury if she were to continue.
Stress and mental health can contribute to physical function and performance. Athletes must consider mind, body, and soul when training at high levels. It is important for athletes to recognize when they have an issue and take the appropriate steps to ensure their safety and health.
To schedule for JOI Rehab, please call 904-858-7045.
Related Articles: Trevor Lawrence Video and JOI Rehab Helpful Tips.
Whether it’s a gymnastics injury, or any other sports injury, the Jacksonville Orthopeadic Institute can help get you back in the game. To schedule an appointment, call 904-JOI-2000, schedule online, or click the link below.
”