The sport of hockey is a physically demanding sport that utilizes not only speed but also fitness and physical contact. Participants in hockey compete on skates with a razor edge and at very fast speeds so it goes without saying that injuries can be a huge part of the game.
The areas of the body that are injured the most in hockey are the shoulders and the knees. The shoulders can become bruised, dislocated, or a bone can be broken as a result of contact with the boards, other players, and even the playing surface. The knee is also a victim of a possible contusion, sprain, and in some extreme cases, a ligament can tear as the result of contact or a collision.
Common Injuries:
- Blisters develop as a result of repetitive friction against the skin.
- Contusions/Bruises develop as a result of falls, collisions, direct hit from sticks.
Treatment:
Blisters
- Keep area clean and dry.
- Keep blistered area well padded.
Contusions/ Bruises
- 1. Apply ice to affected area to minimized swelling.
- 2. X-ray of injured limbs if you feel or hear a "grinding" sensation.
Methods to Reduce the Risk of Injury:
- Utilize a good warm up
- Maintain good equipment
- Check the Arena
- Promote fair play
- If you are injured see your doctor
Related Links
Hockey ‘Pro’ Checks Heart Defects with Ablation
Other Common Hockey Injuries
Concussion
Eye Injuries
