Badminton injuries are usually overuse injuries which develop from repeated overhead movements. Injuries to the shoulder, elbow, wrist, knees and ankle are common.
Injuries to the lower limb can also occur due to the high proportion of jumping and quick changes of direction.
- Tennis elbow
- Golfer's elbow
- RSI / Wrist tendonitis
- Wrist strain
- Rotator cuff tendinopathy
- Rotator cuff strain
- Ankle sprain
- Jumpers knee
Immediate first aid for acute injuries
In the case of minor injuries, it is recommended to follow the PRICE therapy principle. This care method can be applied at home for 2-3 days. PRICE stands for Protection, Rest, Ice, Compression and Elevation.
Protection - Protect the injury from further damage. Where applicable, use of a support is recommended.
Rest - Refrain from exercise and try to reduce the demands of your daily activity to encourage recovery.
Ice - The topical application of ice or cold therapy can assist in reducing the symptoms of pain and inflammation.
Compression - The use of applied pressure and compression bandages can can help reduce swelling.
Elevation - Keeping the injured area elevated above heart level when possible can improve circulation to the area and help reduce swelling.
Should I seek professional treatment?
If you have any of the following symptoms you should seek further medical assistance.
- Severe pain, especially on walking
- Severe swelling (oedema)
- Altered sensation in the foot – such as a feeling of “pins and needles” (paresthesia) or a “loss of feeling” (anaesthesia).
- Unable to complete normal daily activities after the initial 72 hours.
Further medical assistance can be sought through either your local GP or a private clinician such as a podiatrist, physiotherapist, sports therapist, osteopath or chiropractor. If you have followed the P.R.I.C.E. principles (see below) and are still unable to walk after 72 hours or still have severe pain that is not subsiding after the first 72 hours you should visit your local A&E department for further assessment.
Secondly, if you have applied for P.R.I.C.E. principles and still have weakness that lasts a long time (more than 2 weeks) or have ongoing discomfort in your foot or heel, you are highly recommended to seek advice from a specialist expert - such as a podiatrist or physiotherapist, osteopath, or chiropractor - who can provide you with advice and an appropriate and effective recovery and rehabilitation program.
Preventing Badminton injuries
Badminton injuries are either acute, traumatic injuries such as ankle sprains, or are overuse injuries such as impingement syndromes. Both types of injury can be prevented, through using the right equipment, warming up, cooling down and ensuring you are strong and fit enough to compete.