• Sports Medicine +
  • Arthroscopic Surgery
  • Common Sports Injuries +
    • Knee Injuries
    • Shoulder Injuries
    • Head Injuries
    • Heat Injuries
  • Returning to Court Sports
  • Returning to Running
• Adult Reconstruction +
  • Osteoarthritis
  • Joint Replacement
  • Computer Aided Surgery
• Common Hand Problems
• Special Athletic Groups +
  • Children and sports
  • Female Athletes

COMMON SPORTS INJURIES

Heat Injuries

Heat Cramps, Heat Exhaustion & Heat Stroke
Heat cramps can include painful vigorous muscle contractions and may involve the legs, arms and abdomen. Heat cramps are treated by discontinuing activity, gently stretching the involved muscle group and by replacing fluids.

Heat exhaustion can include nausea, dizziness, fainting, increased sweating, headache, elevated body temperature, rapid pulse and pale clammy skin. The main goal in the treatment of heat exhaustion is to cool down the athlete. Immediately stop the present activity, remove excess clothing (shoulder pads, helmet, etc.), apply ice to the main arteries, apply cool, wet towels to the head and neck, move to shade and monitor body temperature. Heat exhaustion is a common problem and ordinarily can be reversed. However, the athlete will need to be monitored upon return to activity.

The signs and symptoms of heat stroke include very high body temperature, hot, pale, dry skin and a weak, but rapid pulse. Heat stroke is a medical emergency! Treatment should be initiated immediately. The emergency medical system should be alerted and cooling is initiated using ice towels or packs placed over major arteries. Excess clothing should be removed and the athlete’s vital signs should be monitored.

Preventing Heat Injury
Keeping the body well hydrated is an important part of sports and exercise. Drinking plenty of fluid helps to improve your performance in addition to preventing heat-related problems. Sweating mechanisms associated with athletic activity can contribute to dehydration. Heat and humidity cause the body to perspire at elevated rates resulting in even greater fluid loss.

To prevent heat problems, fluids should be consumed after sports activity. Many times, significant amounts of body fluids have been lost before thirst develops. Therefore, don't wait until you're thirsty. Water is by far the most important drink.

Isotonic (sports) drinks can also be beneficial with the brand selection being a matter of personal preference. Start with 2-3 cups of fluid prior to activity followed by one cup every 15 minutes during activity and large amounts of fluids after activity. As your body temperature rises and fluids and electrolytes are depleted, heat illness becomes a real possibility.

Don't let the weather get you down! Prepare yourself by having plenty of fluids available when exercising.