Credit:www.freepik.com

The 33rd Summer Olympics officially commenced on July 27, 2024, in Paris, France. As athletes from around the world compete, Medicine.net is set to provide educational content on medical issues arising from sports activities.

In everyday life, the probability of sustaining injuries increases significantly with higher exercise intensity or participation in high-impact sports. This raises an important question: how do athletes who regularly engage in high-intensity and high-contact sports avoid injuries?

Athletic injuries are generally categorized into three levels:

1. Mild Injuries: These usually do not affect the athlete's normal activities and are accompanied by minor discomfort and pain. Common mild injuries include muscle strains, sprains, and abrasions.

2. Moderate Injuries: These impact the athlete's daily activities and require rest and rehabilitation. Common moderate injuries include more severe muscle strains, ligament injuries, and localized swelling.

3. Severe Injuries:  These often result in significant tissue damage and functional impairment, necessitating immediate medical attention and long-term rehabilitation. Common severe injuries include fractures, concussions, and serious soft tissue injuries.

To minimize the risk of injury, athletes tailor their training intensity to their current physical condition, gradually increasing intensity over time. Proper selection of sports equipment based on body type and personal habits is also crucial. For example, runners choose footwear suited to their foot type and running surface, while basketball players use specialized shoes designed to match their physical needs and playing style.

The manner and habits of exercising are equally important. Chronic overuse injuries can be more debilitating than acute injuries. Athletes train under the guidance of professional coaching teams, who help identify and correct poor habits early on.

Moreover, pre-exercise warm-ups and post-exercise cool-downs, including stretching, are essential for preventing injuries during high-intensity and high-contact sports. A well-prepared athlete is less likely to experience muscle stiffness and pain.

Can ordinary people follow the same standards as athletes to avoid injuries? While most people cannot match the performance of professional athletes, the human body's structure is similar. The same precautions athletes take to prevent injuries are applicable to everyone. The key for non-athletes is to choose exercises suited to their body type and preferences, while recognizing their limitations compared to professional athletes.

By adopting these measures, both athletes and ordinary people can reduce the risk of sports-related injuries and enjoy a healthier, more active lifestyle.