Rugby has been reported to have high rate of injuries compared to other team sports. This may be because players are exposed to body contact and high rate of collision. even though these players use equipment such as, gum shield, head guards and shoulder pads to protect themselves by reducing the effect of the impact, this by no means stops the injuries totally from occurring, in fact sometimes even the most protected area of the body are the ones that experience injuries.
RUGBY AND INJURIES
RUGBY AND INJURIES
Sometimes the possibility of a rugby player getting injured can be predicted by his playing position in the field. In the game of rugby sport, there are three back row forwards, three front row forwards, five outside backs and two inside backs. The six forwards are played in the middle of the rack, this is where the game restarts therefore more physical movements are applied, in defense and attack. The backs are less physical because they are positioned outside the forwards. This tells us that the forwards get to endure more physical movements than the backs .The backs can also physical when the style of game is reversed so that the ball can be moved wider quicker. This gives the backs a very big role.
The ball carrier is said to be the one who receives most injuries. The backs are the ball carriers,, this increases their chances of physical coalition and injury risks, at this time now the forward contact and physical coalition is reduced.
Injuries in rugby
Injuries in a sport means that the player will have to stay away from the game for about one week, this will also prevent the player from being, selected for upcoming matches as he seeks medical attention. Compared to school sport injuries, rugby injuries are more common and severe. Rugby injuries are mainly joints, ligaments, and muscles, tendons, born fractures, infected skin laceration and nervous system. It is said that the greater risk of injury mainly occurs in the lower part of the body. This is the lower limb.
Knee injuries
Knee injuries are more experienced mostly almost in every sport. This is mainly because of its stability and flexibility, mostly injuries occur due to violent impact, more violent impact means more complicated and serious injuries. Knee injury is common because it involves running. Knee injury can reduce player’s performance if not taken good care of, medically
Traumatic injuries
Since rugby involves collision, it gives room for traumatic injuries. They mostly include dislocated fingers, fractured bones elbow, cuts, strained tendons or muscles and severe muscle bruises. Facial fracture has also been witnessed especially the nose since it is not covered with the helmet. Shoulder injuries come from collision with the ground or other players, it can bring about dislocation of the glen humeral joint.
Just like any other sport involving contact and speed, concussion does occur in rugby but Gaining back flexibility and strength is very important to the players, so that they can get back in the game. It is also important for the players to teach themselves endurance, especially after they have experienced injuries.
Reduction and prevention of rugby injuries
- Most importantly is balance, the player should focus on balance, strength, endurance and flexibility.
- Players should be creative when scrumming, tackling and racking.
- They should learn about the game positioning so that they can avoid risky moves.
- Use protective equipments such as mouth guard
- Be more informed about the game by asking a trainer or a medical officer questions
- Cling fast to the rules of the formation of scrum
