Women’s Health Month:

Both men and women are susceptible to musculoskeletal issues, but some certain orthopedic injuries and conditions affect women at a higher rate. Since May is Women’s Health Month, Island Sports Physical Therapy would like to discuss some of the common orthopedic injuries women experience and how they can be prevented. Continue reading to learn more. 

Common Orthopedic Injuries in Women

Orthopedic injuries and conditions can present themselves differently among men and women. While the separating factor between two individuals’ risk is their activity, gender can play a role.

When it comes to orthopedic injuries and conditions, women need to be more aware of these unique problems to avoid long-term complications. Some of the prevalent orthopedic injuries women experience include:

• Stress fractures – Stress fractures are small cracks or breaks in the bones that occur due to repetitive overuse. Women are at a higher risk of developing stress fractures because their bones have less muscle mass and density, making them more prone to injury. Common symptoms of a stress fracture include pain, swelling, and tenderness in the area around the fracture.
• ACL injuries – The Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) is one of the most common orthopedic injuries women experience, especially in contact sports like soccer and basketball. This injury occurs when there is a sudden change in direction or an awkward landing following a jump. Women are also more likely to tear their ACL because of the strength differences between their ACL and hamstrings. Common symptoms of an ACL injury include increased pain, swelling, and instability in the knee joint.
• Osteoporosis – Osteoporosis is a condition that affects millions of women globally and is characterized by low bone density, making them more prone to breaks and fractures. Women are more prone to this condition because they lose bone density faster than men during their post-menopausal years. The best way for women to prevent osteoporosis is to maintain a healthy diet and get enough calcium and vitamin D.

Overall, women are at a higher risk of developing orthopedic injuries and conditions due to their physiology and lifestyle factors. By being more aware of these risks and taking steps to prevent them, women can avoid long-term complications and enjoy an active lifestyle for many years to come.

Preventing Orthopedic Injuries 

At Island Sports Physical Therapy, prevention is a critical component of our services. Some women are at an increased risk of developing orthopedic injuries due to their physiology or lifestyle choices. If you smoke, have osteoporosis, or play contact sports, you may be more likely to experience an injury. Our staff will assess any risk factors you may have and develop a plan to minimize your chances of injury. Here are some of the ways you can maintain your orthopedic health and prevent injury:

• Eat Healthy – A well-balanced diet is essential for maintaining strong bones and muscles. Be sure to include plenty of calcium-rich foods such as dairy products, leafy green vegetables, and nuts. You should also get enough vitamin D, which can be found in fatty fish, eggs, and fortified milk.
• Exercise – Exercise is vital for maintaining bone density and muscle mass. Weight-bearing activities such as walking, jogging, and lifting weights are especially beneficial.
• Proper Footwear – Wearing shoes that fit well and provide adequate support can help prevent stress fractures and other orthopedic injuries. Avoid high heels and flip-flops, which offer little support.
• Maintain a healthy weight – Excess pounds can increase your risk of developing osteoarthritis, as more weight on the joints weakens muscles and increases the risk of injury. 

Contact Us

At Island Sports Physical Therapy, our team is dedicated to helping patients achieve optimal orthopedic health. Our specialists provide comprehensive care to all of our patients to help them reach their goals and lead happy and active lifestyles. Be sure to contact Island Sports Physical Therapy today to request an appointment!