Sports and injuries usually go hand in hand. Most sports injuries are caused by overuse, direct impact, or the application of force. These injuries affect the bones, joints, cartilage, tendons, ligaments, and other soft tissues. The common sports injuries include fractures, joint dislocation, ankle sprain, ligament tear, tendinitis, etc. Thus, while playing any sports, it is best to use protective equipment to avoid or reduce injuries.

Here's a list of protective devices that can help you enjoy your favorite sports without compromising on your health:

1. Helmet:

 


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Whether you're cycling, skating, or playing cricket, wearing a helmet can reduce the risk of head injuries. When buying a helmet, make sure that the helmet covers the entire skull and does not move around when in use.

2. Knee brace:

 


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The knee is one of the strongest joints in the body. However, it is also more prone to injuries. Certain sports such as running, football, basketball, and skiing can lead to knee injury due to harsh and sudden moves involved in these sports.

In such cases, knee braces can help protect the knee joint, muscles, and ligaments. They can also provide stability without interfering with the joint's normal movement.
Different types of knee braces focus on different weaknesses. For example, sleeves or compression can provide support and redistribute the weight-bearing load. Patellar straps can relieve knee pressure and pain.

3. Shoes:

 


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The choice of shoes will depend on the type of sport you are playing. Different sports require different foot movements. For example, running a marathon requires continuous movement in one direction, whereas sports like tennis require more lateral movement. So, make sure that you have the right shoes before indulging in your favorite sports. Some important factors to consider while buying shoes include good grip, cushioning, mid-foot support, durable outsole,  etc.

4. Protective goggles:

 


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Ordinary glasses and contact lenses cannot provide adequate protection while playing sports. Hence, protective sports eyewear is preferred. It consists of specialized polycarbonate lenses and ultraviolet filters. Sports such as swimming, skiing, and snowboarding require the players to wear glasses to protect their eyes. Some eye injuries can also lead to permanent blindness. Hence, it's essential to use appropriate eyewear.

5. Face protection and mouth guards:

 


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Facial bone fractures are common amongst cricketers, hockey players, rugby players, and boxers. It is caused due to a hit by a ball or racquet or repetitive force. Helmets and face guards can protect the players against such injuries. Moreover, the mouth, lips, teeth, gums, jaws, and tongue can be protected with a mouthguard. It is a u-shaped device made of a thermoplastic material that can absorb shock during an injury.

6. Shin guards:

 


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Shin guards are a thick piece of material worn inside the socks to protect the lower part of the leg. It is used in various sports such as cricket, football, baseball, ice hockey, etc. During sports, shin guards can absorb some of the impacts on the tibia and other leg bones caused due to collision.

7. Elbow and knee pads:

 


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Elbow and knee pads can protect from impacts and abrasions caused due to a fall or strike. Elbow and knee pads are vital in various sports such as volleyball, hockey, skating, cycling, skiing, and wrestling.

8. Kinesiotape:

 


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Kinesiotape is a stretchable adhesive tape that stabilizes the injured area by applying pressure to the tissues. It also provides support, redistributes stress over joints or muscles, and controls motion. The tape is waterproof and can be used on the knees, back, elbows, shoulders, wrists, calves, and shin.

The sports protective equipment may sometimes look a little odd or unfashionable but is crucial for preventing serious injuries or reducing the severity of an injury. After all, the objective of a sport is to enjoy yourself, and getting injured can prevent you from doing so.