Common Hurdling Injuries and their Physiotherapeutic Treatment
Introduction
Hurdling is an exhilarating but demanding track and field event that requires a blend of speed, power, and agility. The combination of sprinting and leaping over hurdles at high speed makes athletes prone to specific injuries. Understanding these common injuries and the role of physiotherapy in treating them can help hurdlers recover effectively and return to their sport safely.
1. Hamstring Strains
Cause: Hamstring strains are prevalent among hurdlers due to the explosive nature of the sport, which involves rapid acceleration and high-force contractions of the hamstring muscles. Overstretching or sudden overload can lead to muscle tears.
Symptoms: Athletes typically experience a sharp, sudden pain in the back of the thigh, along with swelling, bruising, and difficulty walking or running.
Physiotherapy Treatment: Initial treatment focuses on rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE) to reduce pain and swelling. Physiotherapists then guide athletes through a graduated rehabilitation program that includes gentle stretching and strengthening exercises. As recovery progresses, more dynamic exercises like eccentric loading and plyometrics are introduced to restore muscle strength and flexibility, ensuring a safe return to hurdling.
2. Ankle Sprains
Cause: Ankle sprains in hurdlers often result from awkward landings after clearing hurdles, leading to the ankle rolling inward or outward and overstretching the ligaments.
Symptoms: Symptoms include pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty bearing weight on the affected ankle.
Physiotherapy Treatment: Initially, RICE is applied to manage pain and swelling. Physiotherapy focuses on restoring range of motion, followed by strengthening exercises for the ankle and lower leg muscles. Balance and proprioception exercises are crucial to prevent future sprains. Techniques like taping or bracing may be used to support the ankle during the return to activity.
3. Knee Injuries
Cause: The repetitive stress and impact from hurdling can lead to various knee injuries, such as patellar tendinitis (jumper’s knee) or meniscus tears. Poor landing technique or sudden changes in direction can exacerbate these issues.
Symptoms: Symptoms range from pain and swelling around the knee to difficulty bending or straightening the joint, and a feeling of instability.
Physiotherapy Treatment: Treatment begins with pain management through ice, anti-inflammatory medications, and modified activity. Physiotherapists use exercises to strengthen the quadriceps, hamstrings, and hip muscles, enhancing knee stability. Stretching and flexibility exercises are also important. For meniscus tears, manual therapy techniques may be employed to improve joint mobility, and in severe cases, surgery followed by rehabilitation may be necessary.
4. Achilles Tendinitis
Cause: Overuse and repetitive strain on the Achilles tendon, often due to the high demands of hurdling, can lead to inflammation and tendinitis.
Symptoms: Pain and stiffness along the Achilles tendon, especially in the morning or after physical activity, are common.
Physiotherapy Treatment: Initial treatment involves rest, ice, and anti-inflammatory measures to reduce pain and swelling. Physiotherapists then focus on eccentric strengthening exercises for the calf muscles, which are particularly effective in treating Achilles tendinitis. Stretching exercises for the calf and Achilles tendon, along with manual therapy, help improve flexibility and reduce stiffness. Gradual return to sport-specific activities ensures the tendon adapts safely to increased loads.
5. Hip Flexor Strains
Cause: The explosive movements in hurdling can overstretch or strain the hip flexor muscles, especially when the athlete’s leg is brought forcefully upwards to clear the hurdle.
Symptoms: Pain in the front of the hip or groin area, particularly when lifting the leg, along with swelling and tenderness.
Physiotherapy Treatment: Rest and ice are initially recommended to manage pain and inflammation. Physiotherapy then focuses on gentle stretching and strengthening exercises for the hip flexors and surrounding muscles. Core strengthening and stability exercises are also essential to support the hip and reduce the risk of re-injury. As recovery progresses, functional training and sport-specific drills help the athlete regain full hip function and return to hurdling.
Conclusion
Hurdling injuries can be serious, but with proper physiotherapy treatment, athletes can recover effectively and return to their sport. Early intervention, a tailored rehabilitation program, and adherence to prescribed exercises are key to regaining strength and function. Additionally, preventive measures such as proper warm-up, technique refinement, and strength training can help minimise the risk of injury. With diligent care and prevention, hurdlers can continue to enjoy their sport safely.
