Lacrosse is a thrilling, fast-moving sport to both play and watch. Although the rules of the game differ between girls and boys, all athletes are prone to injuries as they dodge and dart across the field with sticks and solid rubber balls. Here are a few safety tips to keep you in the game all season long.
- Know Your Risks
During practice, the most common injuries for both boys and girls are:
- Ankle and knee ligament sprains
- Knee injuries, including ACL tears
- Strains of the hamstrings, quadriceps, and groin
- Shin splints and foot blisters
- Don’t Skimp on Protective Gear
While shopping for mandatory equipment, make sure the items fit well and meet league standards of quality. Add an extra layer of protection with various optional items that can be found in the USA Lacrosse Equipment Guide.
- Stick with a Warmup Routine
Warm up your body with static (stretching) and dynamic (light jogging, lunging, etc.) exercises.
Pro tip: Build a solid pre-game routine by following the FIFA 11+ program, a series of warm-up exercises designed for soccer players.
- Get Your Game on Safely
The most serious injuries—concussions, hand and lower-extremity fractures—are more prevalent during competitions when the adrenaline is pumping and crowds are cheering. Remember to practice good sportsmanship and respect the rules of the game to avoid injuring yourself and others.
- Watch Your Head
If a concussion is suspected, the athlete must leave the field immediately and be evaluated by a qualified health care professional. Warning signs include confusion, loss of consciousness, memory loss, dizziness, and nausea.