13 Common Curling injuries (Prevention & Treatment)

Welcome to the intriguing world of curling!

This unique ice sport can be as captivating as it is challenging.

However, like any athletic pastime, curling enthusiasts may encounter some common injuries.

From shoulder strains to muscle sprains, we’ve got you covered with this comprehensive article.

Dive in and learn more about how to keep yourself safe on the ice, while still enjoying the captivating challenge of this age-old sport!

Equip yourself properly to prevent common injuries by checking our curling equipment list.

Shoulder injuries (rotator cuff, strains)

Shoulder injuries in curling can result from the repetitive broom action, leading to strains and rotator cuff issues.

The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that hold the upper arm bone in the shoulder socket. Overuse, strain, and inflammation can cause pain, decreased range of motion, and weakness.

Proper technique and strengthening exercises can help prevent these common shoulder injuries and keep you sweeping with ease.

Treatment Method:

Rest: Refrain from engaging in activities that worsen shoulder discomfort.
Ice: Use ice packs on the affected shoulder for 15-20 minutes multiple times a day to alleviate swelling and pain.
Physical Therapy: A physical therapist can design a tailored exercise program to enhance rotator cuff strength and increase shoulder flexibility.
Corticosteroid Injections: For more intense cases, corticosteroid injections may be administered to reduce inflammation.
Surgery: If non-surgical methods are ineffective, surgical intervention may be required to repair a torn rotator cuff.

Back injuries (muscle strains)

Back injuries in curling often involve muscle strains from the sport’s unique movements and positions.

Curlers frequently experience lower back pain due to bending, twisting, and sweeping actions.

Stretching and strengthening back muscles through core exercises can help minimize this risk and allow you to enjoy the sport without discomfort.

Treatment Method:

Rest: Avoid actions that worsen back pain.
Ice: Apply ice to the affected area for 15-20 minutes several times a day to ease swelling and pain.
Heat: Once inflammation decreases, use heat to relax muscles and further reduce pain.
Pain Relief: Over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can relieve pain and inflammation.
Physical Therapy: A physical therapist can provide exercises to strengthen your back and improve posture.
Core Exercises: Strengthening your core muscles supports your back and helps prevent future injuries.

Knee injuries (sprains, strains)

Knee injuries are common in curling as the sport demands a great deal of lower body strength and stability.

Sprains and strains can occur as curlers transition between their starting position and the sliding delivery.

Proper technique, warm-up exercises, and knee protection can help reduce the chances of these injuries and ensure smooth sweeps and deliveries.

Treatment Method:

RICE Method: Rest the knee, apply ice for 15-20 minutes several times daily, use a compression bandage, and keep it elevated to reduce swelling and pain.
Pain Relief: Over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can ease pain and inflammation.
Physical Therapy: A physical therapist can recommend exercises to strengthen knee-supporting muscles and enhance flexibility.
Knee Brace: Wear a knee brace for added support and stability.

Elbow injuries (tendonitis)

Elbow tendonitis can occur in the sport of curling due to repetitive sweeping motions or incorrect technique. This inflammation of the tendons in and around the elbow joint can cause pain and limited range of motion.

Adopting a proper sweeping technique, using the appropriate equipment, and incorporating stretching exercises can help prevent this common curling injury.

Treatment Method:

RICE method: Rest the elbow, apply ice for 15-20 minutes several times a day, use a compression bandage, and keep it elevated to reduce swelling and pain.
Pain Relief: Over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can relieve pain and inflammation.
Physical Therapy: A physical therapist can recommend exercises to strengthen the elbow muscles and improve mobility.
Bracing: Wear a brace or elbow sleeve for additional support and to lessen stress on the tendon.
Corticosteroid Injections: For severe cases, corticosteroid injections may be used to reduce inflammation.

Wrist injuries (sprains, strains)

Wrist injuries are prevalent in curling due to the constant pressure and twisting motions required for sweeping. Sprains and strains can lead to pain, swelling, and limited wrist mobility.

Proper technique, wrist support, and strengthening exercises can help curlers avoid these common issues and maintain a pain-free playing experience.

Treatment Method:

RICE therapy: Rest the wrist, apply ice for 15-20 minutes several times a day, use a compression bandage, and keep it elevated to reduce swelling and pain.
Pain Relief: Over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can ease pain and inflammation.
Physical Therapy: A physical therapist can suggest exercises to strengthen wrist muscles and improve flexibility.
Splinting: Use a splint to immobilize the wrist and promote healing.

Ankle sprains

Ankle sprains can occur while curling when players lose their footing on the ice or twist their ankle during sweeping.

Wearing appropriate footwear with good ankle support, practicing balance exercises, and warming up before games can help prevent these painful and frustrating injuries.

Treatment Method:

RICE method: Rest the ankle, apply ice for 15-20 minutes several times a day, use a compression bandage for support, and keep it elevated above heart level to reduce swelling and pain.
Pain Relief: Over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can relieve pain and inflammation.
Physical Therapy: A physical therapist can recommend exercises to strengthen ankle muscles and enhance range of motion.
Bracing: Wear an ankle brace for added support and stability.

Hand injuries (blisters, sprains)

Hand injuries, such as blisters and sprains, can be common in curling due to repetitive movements and gripping of the broom handle.

To prevent these injuries, ensure that you are using appropriate gloves, equipment, and technique. Regular moisturizing and hand care can also help reduce the risk of painful blisters.

Treatment Method:

Protect the Blister: Cover it with a bandage or blister patch to prevent further irritation.
Avoid Popping: Do not pop the blister to reduce the risk of infection.
Keep It Clean and Dry: Gently wash the area with soap and water, then dry thoroughly.
Pain Relief: Over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help alleviate pain.

Hip injuries (strains)

Hip strains can occur in curling when players exert excessive force during sweeping or have poor body mechanics during deliveries.

Preventative measures include proper warm-up, stretching, and strengthening exercises focused on hip muscles and proper technique practice.

Treatment Method:

Rest: Avoid activities that worsen hip pain.
Ice: Apply ice to the hip for 15-20 minutes several times a day to reduce swelling and pain.
Heat: Once inflammation decreases, use heat to relax muscles and ease discomfort.
Pain Relief: Over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can relieve pain and inflammation.
Physical Therapy: A physical therapist can recommend exercises to strengthen hip muscles and enhance mobility.
Core Exercises: Strengthen your core to support the hip and help prevent injuries.

Head injuries (concussions, from falls)

Head injuries, such as concussions, can result from falls on the slippery ice surface during curling.

To minimize this risk, practice good on-ice safety techniques, wear protective headgear, and be aware of your surroundings to avoid collisions with teammates or opponents.

Treatment Method:

Rest: Avoid activities that could worsen your symptoms.
Cognitive Rest: Minimize mental exertion, such as reading, watching TV, or using electronic devices.
Physical Rest: Refrain from physical activity until symptoms improve.
Monitor Symptoms: Watch for worsening symptoms like severe headache, vomiting, or changes in behavior.

Groin strains

Curling can put stress on the groin muscles due to the sliding motion during delivery and sweeping. Groin strains can be painful and limit mobility.

Strengthening and stretching exercises for the hips and thighs, as well as proper delivery technique, can help prevent these strains and keep curlers healthy and in the game.

Treatment Method:

RICE method: Rest to avoid worsening groin pain, apply ice for 15-20 minutes several times a day, use a compression bandage for support, and keep the leg elevated to minimize swelling.
Pain Relief: Over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can ease pain and inflammation.
Physical Therapy: A physical therapist can recommend exercises to strengthen groin muscles and improve flexibility.

Foot injuries (sprains, strains)

Foot injuries, such as sprains and strains, can occur in curling due to the repetitive stress from sliding and sweeping.

Wearing appropriate footwear, maintaining good balance, and incorporating foot strengthening exercises can help prevent these common injuries and ensure your feet stay pain-free on the ice.

Treatment Method:

RICE Therapy: Rest the foot, apply ice for 15-20 minutes several times a day, use a compression bandage for support, and keep it elevated above heart level to reduce swelling and pain.
Pain Relief: Over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can relieve pain and inflammation.
Physical Therapy: A physical therapist can suggest exercises to strengthen foot muscles and improve range of motion.
Bracing: Wear a foot brace or ankle support for added stability.

Cuts and abrasions (from contact with ice or equipment)

In the fast-paced world of curling, cuts and abrasions from contact with ice or equipment can be a common occurrence.

Proper protective gear, such as gloves, and being cautious during play can help prevent these minor injuries and keep you safely enjoying the sport.

Treatment Method:

Clean the Wound: Gently wash the wound with warm, soapy water to remove dirt and debris.
Stop Bleeding: Apply direct pressure with a clean cloth or bandage.
Apply Antibiotic Ointment: Use an antibiotic ointment to help prevent infection.
Cover the Wound: Protect the wound with a clean bandage.
Monitor for Infection: Watch for signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, warmth, pus, or increasing pain.

Neck injuries (muscle strain)

Neck injuries, specifically muscle strains, can develop as a result of curling’s unique positions and stresses on the cervical spine.

Proper warm-up, stretching, and strengthening exercises can help safeguard against muscle strains in the neck and allow curlers to stay focused on their strategy and execution.

Treatment Method:

Rest: Avoid activities that worsen neck pain.
Ice: Apply ice to the affected area for 15-20 minutes several times a day to reduce swelling and pain.
Heat: Once the initial inflammation decreases, use heat to relax muscles and alleviate discomfort.
Pain Relief: Over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can relieve pain and inflammation.
Physical Therapy: A physical therapist can recommend exercises to strengthen neck muscles and enhance flexibility.
Posture Correction: Maintain good posture and avoid straining your neck during activities.

How to Treat Curling Sport Injuries

Shoulder and elbow injuries: Incorporate proper technique, stretching, and strengthening exercises to help prevent issues such as rotator cuff strains and elbow tendonitis. Using the appropriate equipment can also reduce the risk of these common curling injuries.
Back, hip, and neck strains: Focus on stretching and strengthening exercises for the affected muscles and practice proper body mechanics to minimize the risk of strain injuries. A well-rounded warm-up routine can also help prevent these issues.
Knee and ankle injuries: Adopt proper technique, warm-up exercises, and knee/ankle protection to reduce the chances of sprains and strains. Wearing appropriate footwear with good support can also help prevent these common lower body injuries.
Wrist and hand injuries: Employ proper technique, wrist support, and strengthening exercises to avoid sprains, strains, and blisters. Using appropriate gloves and practicing regular hand care can also decrease the risk of these issues.
Groin strains: Prevent groin strains by incorporating strengthening and stretching exercises for the hips and thighs. Practicing proper delivery technique can also help keep curlers healthy and in the game.
Head injuries: Minimize the risk of concussions and other head injuries by practicing good on-ice safety techniques, wearing protective headgear, and being aware of your surroundings to avoid collisions.
Cuts, abrasions, and foot injuries: Utilize proper protective gear and caution during play to prevent minor injuries. Wearing appropriate footwear, maintaining good balance, and performing foot strengthening exercises can help prevent foot sprains and strains.

How to Prevent Curling Sport Injuries

Curling, though fun and engaging, can put strain on various parts of the body, leading to common injuries.

However, these injuries can be prevented through proper techniques, strength exercises, and protective measures.

Warm up and stretch the muscles and joints involved in curling, including the groin, hips, hamstrings, Achilles tendons, and quadriceps.
Practice proper technique for curling movements such as sweeping, sliding, and delivering to prevent strain.
Wear appropriate footwear with good ankle support and invest in protective gear such as gloves, shin guards, and headgear.
Strengthen and maintain balance through core exercises, lower body workouts, and stability training.
Implement regular hand care by using suitable gloves, moisturizing, and practicing correct gripping techniques.

FAQ

What can be done to prevent shoulder and elbow injuries in curling?

Incorporate proper technique, stretching, and strengthening exercises to help prevent issues such as rotator cuff strains and elbow tendonitis. Using the appropriate equipment can also reduce the risk of these common curling injuries.

How can curlers minimize the risk of back, hip, and neck strains?

Focus on stretching and strengthening exercises for the affected muscles and practice proper body mechanics to minimize the risk of strain injuries. A well-rounded warm-up routine can also help prevent these issues.

What measures can be taken to avoid knee and ankle injuries in curling?

Adopt proper technique, warm-up exercises, and knee/ankle protection to reduce the chances of sprains and strains. Wearing appropriate footwear with good support can also help prevent these common lower body injuries.

How can wrist and hand injuries in curling be prevented?

Employ proper technique, wrist support, and strengthening exercises to avoid sprains, strains, and blisters. Using appropriate gloves and practicing regular hand care can also decrease the risk of these issues.