17 Common Lacrosse injuries (Prevention & Treatment)

Lacrosse is an exciting, high-intensity game that we all love!

But, with great thrills come some risks.

Stay ahead of the game by getting familiar with common lacrosse sport injuries, from sprains to concussions.

Knowledge is power, and understanding these injuries helps keep you safe on the field.

Dive in and learn how to protect yourself, avoid mishaps, and have fun playing the sport you adore.

Don’t let common lacrosse sport injuries catch you off guard!

Sprains and Strains (ankles, knees, etc.)

Sprains and strains are common lacrosse injuries that involve the stretching or tearing of ligaments (sprains) or muscles and tendons (strains).

These injuries typically affect ankles, knees, and other joints, causing pain, swelling, and difficulties with movement.

Sprains and strains can occur due to sudden twists or impacts, as well as overuse and inadequate warm-ups before playing.

Treatment Method:

• Rest: Avoid activities that worsen the injury.
• Ice: Apply ice for 15-20 minutes every 2-3 hours to reduce swelling and pain.
• Compression: Use an elastic bandage to wrap the area and control swelling.
• Elevation: Keep the injured area elevated above heart level to minimize swelling.

Concussions

Concussions are a type of traumatic brain injury caused by blows to the head or strong, sudden movements that can ultimately affect brain function.

Symptoms include headache, dizziness, nausea, confusion, and temporary memory loss.

Lacrosse players are at risk of concussion due to potential body and stick collisions or falls during games and practices.

Appropriate protective gear, such as helmets, can help to minimize the risk of concussion.

Treatment Method:

• Rest: Avoid physical and mental activities that could worsen symptoms.
• Medical Evaluation: Seek immediate medical attention to assess the severity of the concussion.
• Gradual Return: Follow a step-by-step process to gradually return to activities, under medical supervision.
• Hydration and Nutrition: Stay hydrated and maintain a balanced diet to support recovery.
• Avoid Re-injury: Refrain from activities that risk another concussion until fully recovered.

Fractures

Fractures, or broken bones, can occur as a result of falls, collisions, or direct blows during lacrosse matches.

Common fracture sites include the arm, wrist, and collarbone. Fractures can cause severe pain, swelling, and deformities in the affected area.

Treatment Method:

• Immobilization: Use a cast, splint, or brace to keep the injured area stable.
• Reduction: Realign displaced bones if needed.
• Surgery: Surgery may be required to fix the fracture or correct deformities.
• Physical Therapy: After healing, physical therapy may be needed to regain strength, flexibility, and range of motion.

Overuse Injuries

Overuse injuries result from repetitive stress on specific body parts, leading to inflammation, pain, and potential tissue damage.

In lacrosse, these injuries often involve the shoulder, elbow, and wrist, potentially impacting throwing and shooting performance.

To prevent overuse injuries, it is essential to practice proper technique, use appropriate equipment, and prioritize rest and recovery.

Treatment Method:

• RICE method: Rest the injury, apply ice for 15-20 minutes every 2-3 hours, use an elastic bandage to reduce swelling, and keep the area elevated above your heart.
• Pain Relief: Take NSAIDs like ibuprofen or naproxen for pain and inflammation.
• Physical Therapy: A therapist can assist with exercises and rehabilitation.
• Braces/Supports: Use them for additional support.

Knee Injuries

Knee injuries, such as meniscus tears and patellar tendonitis, are common among lacrosse players due to the sport’s high-impact nature and frequent pivoting, changing directions, and rapid acceleration.

These injuries can cause pain, swelling, and decreased range of motion in the affected knee.

Prevention measures include wearing appropriate footwear, strengthening the muscles around the knee, and utilizing proper technique during play.

Treatment Method:

• RICE method: Rest, ice for 15-20 minutes every 2-3 hours, use a bandage, and elevate the area.
• Pain Relief: Take NSAIDs like ibuprofen or naproxen as needed.
• Physical Therapy: A therapist can assist with exercises and rehab.
• Braces/Supports: Use to stabilize the knee joint.
• Surgery: Consider if a torn ligament or meniscus requires repair.

Shin Splints

Shin splints, or medial tibial stress syndrome, involve pain and inflammation in the front of the lower leg.

This is often caused by overuse, improper footwear, or sudden increases in activity.

Lacrosse players may experience shin splints due to running on hard surfaces or not adequately warming up before matches.

Managing shin splints involves rest, ice, and stretching exercise routines.

Treatment Method:

• Rest: Avoid activities that worsen the pain.
• Ice: Apply for 15-20 minutes every 2-3 hours.
• Compression: Use an elastic bandage to reduce swelling.
• Elevation: Keep the injured area elevated above your heart.

Cuts and Bruises

Cuts and bruises are common in contact sports like lacrosse, resulting from collisions, falls, and impact with sticks and balls.

Proper protective gear, such as gloves, helmets, and pads, is essential to minimize the risk of abrasions and contusions.

Additionally, practicing good sportsmanship and adhering to the rules of the game can help prevent unnecessary injuries.

Treatment Method:

• Control Bleeding: Apply direct pressure with a clean cloth or bandage until bleeding stops.
• Clean the Wound: Gently wash with mild soap and warm water.
• Apply Antibiotic Ointment: Use a topical antibiotic to prevent infection.
• Cover the Wound: Bandage loosely to protect from dirt and bacteria.
• Seek Medical Attention: If the cut is deep, involves a joint, or bleeding is difficult to control, get medical help immediately

Hand Injuries

Hand injuries, including fractures, dislocations, and contusions, are prevalent among lacrosse players due to the contact with sticks, balls, and other players.

These injuries can cause pain, swelling, and limited hand mobility.

Wearing appropriate gloves, practicing proper grip techniques, and strengthening the hand muscles can help reduce the risk of hand injuries.

Treatment Method:

• Immobilization: Use a splint or cast to keep the injured area stable.
• RICE method: Rest, apply ice for 15-20 minutes every 2-3 hours, use an elastic bandage, and keep the area elevated above your heart.
• Pain Relief: Take NSAIDs like ibuprofen or naproxen for pain and inflammation.
• Physical Therapy: A therapist can assist with exercises and rehabilitation.
• Surgery: May be needed to repair fractures or correct deformities.

Lower Back Pain

Lower back pain can result from excessive bending, twisting, and lifting required in lacrosse, especially among offensive and defensive players.

This can lead to muscle strains, ligament sprains, and other back-related issues.

Strengthening the core muscles, practicing proper technique, and incorporating flexibility exercises into training routines can help prevent lower back pain.

Treatment Method:

• Rest: Avoid activities that exacerbate the pain.
• Ice: Apply ice for 15-20 minutes several times a day to reduce swelling and pain.
• Heat: After 48 hours, use heat to relax tight muscles.
• OTC Pain Relief: Use NSAIDs like ibuprofen to relieve pain and inflammation.
• Stretching and Strengthening Exercises: Once acute pain subsides, engage in exercises to improve flexibility and strength.
• Proper Posture and Technique: Ensure correct posture and technique during play to prevent future injuries.

Head Injuries

Head injuries, including lacerations, contusions, and concussions, can occur in lacrosse due to collisions or impact with sticks and balls.

Wearing proper helmets with full-face shields or guards can help protect against head injuries.

Additionally, following the rules of fair play and practicing good sportsmanship helps minimize the risk of head injuries.

Treatment Method:

• Rest: Avoid activities that could aggravate the injury.
• Ice: Apply ice to reduce swelling.
• Medical Attention: Seek immediate help for head injuries, especially with signs of a concussion or severe symptoms.
• Stitches: Scalp lacerations may require stitches to close the wound.
• Immobilization: Immobilize the head if there is a skull fracture.

Back Injuries

Back injuries in lacrosse, such as muscle strains and ligament sprains, can result from excessive bending, twisting, and compression of the spine during gameplay.

Strengthening core muscles, incorporating flexibility exercises into training routines, and learning proper technique can help prevent various back injuries.

Treatment Method:

• Rest: Avoid activities that worsen the pain.
• Ice: Apply ice for 15-20 minutes every 2-3 hours.
• Heat Therapy: Use heat after initial inflammation subsides to reduce stiffness and promote healing.
• Physical Therapy: Engage in exercises for range of motion, strength, and core stability with a therapist.
• Medication: Use over-the-counter or prescription pain medications as needed.
• Braces/Supports: Utilize them to provide back support.
• Surgery: Consider surgery for conditions like a herniated disc if necessary.

Hamstrings, Quadriceps, and Groin Injuries

Injuries to the hamstrings, quadriceps, and groin muscles are common among lacrosse players due to the sport’s demanding sprinting and sudden changes in direction.

These injuries can cause pain, swelling, and difficulties with movement.

Strength training for the leg muscles, proper warm-ups before games and practices, and utilizing appropriate stretching and conditioning techniques can help prevent these injuries.

Treatment Method:

• RICE method: Rest, ice for 15-20 minutes every 2-3 hours, use an elastic bandage, and elevate above heart level.
• Physical Therapy: Engage in exercises for range of motion, strength, and rehabilitation with a therapist.
• Surgery: May be required in severe cases to repair a torn hamstring.

Hip Injuries

Hip injuries, such as labral tears and hip flexor strains, may occur in lacrosse players due to the sport’s high-impact nature and the rapid acceleration and deceleration involved.

These injuries can cause pain and movement limitations.

Strengthening hip muscles, practicing proper technique, and developing flexibility can help reduce the risk of hip injuries.

Treatment Method:

• RICE method: Rest, apply ice for 15-20 minutes every 2-3 hours, use an elastic bandage, and elevate above heart level.
• Over-the-Counter Pain Relief: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or naproxen can help reduce pain and inflammation.
• Physical Therapy: A physical therapist can help with range of motion exercises, strengthening exercises, and functional rehabilitation.
• Corticosteroid Injections: In some cases, corticosteroid injections may be used to reduce inflammation.
• Surgery: If the injury is severe or does not improve with conservative treatment, surgery may be necessary.

Abrasions

Abrasions, or surface-level skin injuries, can occur from sliding, falling, or contact with other players in lacrosse.

Wearing appropriate protective gear, such as elbow and knee pads, can decrease the risk of abrasions.

Additionally, maintaining a clean and well-groomed playing surface can help prevent these injuries.

Treatment Method:

• Control Bleeding: Apply direct pressure with a clean cloth or bandage until bleeding stops.
• Clean the Wound: Gently wash with mild soap and warm water.
• Apply Antibiotic Ointment: Use a topical antibiotic to prevent infection.
• Cover the Wound: Bandage loosely to protect from dirt and bacteria.

Dislocations (Shoulder, Finger etc.)

Dislocations are injuries in which the bones in a joint are forced out of their normal position, often occurring in shoulders and fingers during lacrosse due to high-impact collisions or falls.

These injuries can cause severe pain, swelling, and immobility.

Proper strengthening exercises for the affected area and wearing appropriate protective gear can help reduce the risk of dislocations.

Treatment Method:

• Reduction: The joint will be carefully realigned (reduced) back into its proper position. This may be done under sedation or anesthesia.
• Immobilization: The joint will be immobilized with a cast, splint, or brace to allow it to heal.
• Physical Therapy: Rehabilitation therapy may be necessary to restore range of motion and strength.

Rotator Cuff Injuries

Rotator cuff injuries involve damage to the muscles and tendons surrounding the shoulder joint, often resulting from overuse or poor technique in lacrosse.

These injuries can cause shoulder pain, weakness, and limited range of motion.

Strengthening rotator cuff muscles, practicing proper throwing and shooting technique, and ensuring adequate rest and recovery can help prevent these injuries.

Treatment Method:

• Rest: Avoid activities that worsen the injury.
• Ice: Apply for 15-20 minutes every 2-3 hours.
• Physical Therapy: Work with a therapist on range of motion, strengthening, and rehabilitation exercises.
• Corticosteroid Injections: May be used to reduce inflammation if needed.
• Surgery: Consider if the injury is severe or doesn’t improve with conservative treatment.

Elbow Injuries

Elbow injuries, such as sprains, strains, and fractures, can affect lacrosse players due to the repetitive throwing and shooting motions required in the sport.

These injuries can cause pain, swelling, and limited elbow mobility.

Preventive measures include proper technique, regular strengthening exercises for the elbow and surrounding muscles, and using appropriate protective gear, such as elbow pads.

Treatment Method:

• RICE method: Rest, ice for 15-20 minutes every 2-3 hours, use an elastic bandage, and keep the area elevated above your heart.
• Pain Relief: Take NSAIDs like ibuprofen or naproxen for pain and inflammation.
• Physical Therapy: Engage in exercises with a therapist to improve range of motion, strength, and function.
• Braces/Supports: Use to stabilize the elbow joint.
• Corticosteroid Injections: May be used to reduce inflammation if needed.
• Surgery: Consider if the injury is severe or doesn’t improve with conservative treatment.

How to Treat Lacrosse Sport Injuries

1. Rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE) method are vital for treating sprains and strains in ankles, knees, and other joints. Pain relief medication, anti-inflammatory drugs, and physical therapy can also aid in recovery. Severe cases may require immobilization, bracing, or even surgery.
2. Medical attention and monitoring are essential for lacrosse players who experience concussions. Symptoms must be closely observed, and a gradual return to physical activity and sport can commence once a healthcare professional clears the athlete. Cognitive rest may also be necessary to recover from a concussion.
3. Immobilization and medical intervention are crucial for treating fractures, such as those affecting arms, wrists, and collarbones. Casting, splinting, or surgery may be necessary, depending on the severity and location of the fracture. Physical therapy after healing can help regain strength and mobility.
4. Rest, appropriate exercise, and physiotherapy can help manage overuse injuries affecting the shoulder, elbow, and wrist. In severe cases, corticosteroid injections or surgery may be necessary. Prevention includes proper technique, adequate rest, and strengthening exercises.
5. Physical therapy, bracing, and medication can aid in the recovery of knee injuries such as meniscus tears and patellar tendonitis. In some cases, surgery may be required. Rehabilitation exercises can help regain strength and stability, while protective gear and proper technique can prevent further injuries.
6. Rest, ice, and stretching exercises are key to managing shin splints. Proper footwear, gradual increases in activity, and avoiding hard surfaces can help prevent this injury. In severe cases, medical intervention may be necessary.
7. First aid, proper protective gear, and adherence to lacrosse rules can help treat and minimize cuts, bruises, hand injuries, and head injuries. In severe cases, medical intervention may be necessary, such as stitches for lacerations, immobilization for fractures, or concussion management protocol for head injuries.

How to Prevent Lacrosse Sport Injuries

Lacrosse, a high-intensity contact sport, can lead to a variety of injuries ranging from sprains and strains to concussions.

It is crucial for players to understand how to prevent these injuries and maintain a healthy, competitive edge.

Follow these tips to stay safe and prevent common lacrosse injuries.

• Warm up properly before playing by stretching muscles, particularly the groins, hips, hamstrings, Achilles tendons, and quadriceps, for at least 30 minutes.
• Wear appropriate protective gear, including mouth guards, shin guards, eye protection, and knee and elbow pads, ensuring they are properly sized and maintained.
• Practice good sportsmanship and adhere to the rules of the game, which can help prevent unnecessary injuries from aggressive play.
• Strengthen muscles through regular exercise routines that focus on the core, hips, and legs, improving stability and reducing the risk of injury.
• Utilize proper techniques when performing various lacrosse skills, such as throwing, shooting, and cutting, to prevent overuse and stress injuries.
• Monitor your body for signs of overuse injuries, such as pain, inflammation, and fatigue, and prioritize rest and recovery as needed.
• Wear proper footwear that provides adequate support, cushioning, and traction for the playing surface, reducing the risk of slips and falls.
• Address injuries promptly with appropriate first aid, immobilization, and professional care as needed to ensure proper healing and minimize long-term complications.

Prevention and knowledge are key, which is why understanding the game through our lacrosse quiz can also help in avoiding common play-related injuries.

FAQ