Rugby is one of the highest contact sports and is very physically demanding, so it’s important to stay safe while playing. This is great exercise for many people, providing a great level of various types of exercise to maintain health, strength and weight. However, injuries do occur, and here is some information about the most common injuries and the best ways to avoid them:
General injuries include:
In rugby, men’s injuries are most common in the lower limbs and are responsible for one third and almost half of all those reported to be related to rugby injuries. Between 15 & 29% of injuries occur in the upper limb.
The next area that is injured is the face and head. Rugby played by a team of women or in schools tend to have more cases of head injuries, including concussions rather than other levels in the game.
A significant proportion of injuries (up to 56%) occurs during the act of tackling. Fortunately, serious injuries and spinal damage are very rare in rugby union.
How to prevent rugby union injuries:
The most effective prevention includes steps such as:
Proper physical preparation includes performing proper warm up, conditioning, stretching and cooling.
Proper training with the development of skills and techniques. For a wide range of Rugby Drill videos, visit www.sportplan.net/drills/Rugby
Adequate security and protection equipment
Enforcement of the correct rules of the game
The presence of coaches, referees and administrators who are strong in enforcing public health and safety issues
Here are some useful tips for all rugby players, regardless of level:
All players must be involved in many pre-season physical preparations and participate in properly designed training as directed by a fitness trainer or coach.
All players must receive guidance from their coaches to develop their team and individual skills before entering a competitive environment.
The higher the level of physical preparation, the lower the risk of potential injury.
School-age children, players over the age of 35 and all new to the sport must receive a pre-participation health check by a sports doctor. Any advice given by doctors during sports during the season, such as to refrain from playing, must be obeyed.
Before the match, all players must warm up between 15-30 minutes consisting of aerobic exercise, stretching, and some skill training.
The correct stretching technique must be checked regularly by a doctor or sports coach.
During the match:
Tackle training must be introduced slowly and progressively to the players and should be the main focus of many skills training sessions.
Guards must always be worn during matches and training sessions where there is potential impact on the jaw and teeth. If the mouth protector is damaged, it must be replaced immediately. If it’s not damaged, you should replace it at least every two years, more often for children who are growing up.
Players must understand that injuries can still occur even with protective equipment. Each injured player may not return to the game until assessed and rehabilitated back to previous mobility, fitness and strength.
